The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) marked the opening of the newly refurbished Goldie River Training Depot Theatre, providing a modern training facility to support the next generation of defence personnel.
The lecture theatre was officially opened on 25 August by Papua New Guinea Secretary for Defence Mr Hari John Akipe and Australia's First Assistant Secretary for Pacific Infrastructure, Ms Laura Darlington.
The refurbishment has transformed the theatre into a modern training space capable of supporting up to 300 trainees. Works included installation of a new audio-visual system, new flooring, upgrades to toilet facilities, and the provision of seating to support large group instruction and training activities.
The theatre will be used to deliver collective training activities and briefing sessions, helping ensure PNGDF trainees have access to modern facilities that support effective learning.
Speaking at the opening, Mr Akipe said the facility would play an important role in preparing future PNGDF personnel.
“I am very impressed with the refurbishment of this theatre and I'm sure the Commanding Officer and his team from the Goldie River Training Depot will enjoy this... This is a reflection of our partnership, especially with the Defence Cooperation Program,” said Mr Aikpe.
Ms Darlington said the project reflected the PNG-Australia Alliance's ongoing commitment to supporting PNGDF capability priorities.
“This theatre is going to be a key part of education for the Papua New Guinea Defence Force, and infrastructure projects like this will play an important role to ensure we have facilities that are fit for purpose for training of PNGDF personnel,” Ms Darlington said.
The project forms part of broader cooperation between Papua New Guinea and Australia to strengthen defence capability and support PNGDF's continued expansion.
By investing in training infrastructure, the PNG-Australia Alliance is helping create the facilities and opportunities needed to support growth and capability within the two defence forces.
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Australia's First Assistant Secretary for Pacific Infrastructure, Ms Laura Darlington and Papua New Guinea Secretary for Defence Mr Hari John Akipe at the opening of the newly refurbished Goldie River Training Depot Theatre, Tuesday 25 August.
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