MEDIA RELEASE
26 May 2008
For immediate release
AUSTRALIA HELPS PNG BOOST CANCER TREATMENT
The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has come to the aid of cancer sufferers in PNG by transporting important cancer treatment equipment from Australia to the ANGAU Memorial Hospital in Lae.
A RAAF C-130 Hercules aircraft delivered the radioactive energy source on Friday 23 May to Nadzab Airport in Lae. The equipment was later transported to ANGAU Memorial Hospital.
Colonel Luke Foster, Head of the Australian Defence Staff, Port Moresby said: “The Australian Government and the Australian Defence Force are pleased to be able to assist the Government of Papua New Guinea with the delivery of such vital equipment to the Cancer Treatment Centre at Lae’s ANGAU Memorial Hospital.”
“There is no doubt that once the equipment is installed and fully functional many cancer sufferers in PNG will benefit. Our willingness to assist with the delivery again demonstrates the strong bonds of friendship that exists between our two countries."
Mr Ross Humphries, President of the PNG Cancer Relief Society, said: “After nine long years PNG will once more have a facility where cancer treatment can be offered to cancer patients.”
Media Inquiries: Francina Thomson, Public Diplomacy Officer, T: 325 9333 ext 276