MEDIA RELEASE
23 August 2007
For immediate release
Australian army chief unveils improved arms depot
The successful renovation of the PNG Defence Force’s main ammunition depot was today marked with an official ceremony officiated by the Australian Chief of Army, Lieutenant General Peter Leahy, AC.
The facilities at Goldie River were extensively refurbished under the Defence Cooperation Program (DCP) between PNG and Australia.
The renovation project upgraded the safety and security of the ammunition depot and also improved the accommodation for PNGDF ammunition technical staff.
Accepting the new facilities, Commander PNGDF Commodore Peter Ilau DMS, CBE thanked the Australian Government for its ongoing support to the PNGDF in relation to weapons and ammunition security.
“The security of PNGDF weapons and ammunition is one of my greatest command responsibilities,” he said.
“I am pleased that these refurbished facilities offer greater security for our important military equipment and a safer working environment for my soldiers.”
Over the past five years, the Australian and PNG Governments have agreed to a range of initiatives under the DCP to improve PNGDF small arms and ammunition security.
The initiatives have included the construction of seven modern, secure armouries at PNGDF bases around the country; security enhancements to ammunition magazines and now the upgrading of the Goldie River Ammunition Depot.
The DCP has funded the activities at a cost of approximately K11.7 million.
Media Inquiries: Leigh Arnold, Public Diplomacy Manager, T: 325 9333 ext 275