57th Goroka show to be held in September

 THE Eastern Highlands 57th Agri-Fair and Goroka Show will be held from Sept 13-15.

Highlands Farmers and Settlers Association president Wilson Thompson said it had been the longest running festival in the country.

“Its objectives are to promote commerce, agriculture, traditional culture, tourism and to encourage our people to engage in work and self-sufficiency,” Thompson said in a statement yesterday.

“Since 2009 there has been a gradual increase in sponsorship and participation from public sectors such as the National Agricultural Research Institute, the Coffee Industry Corporation, the Institute of PNG Studies, Prime Minister’s Department and the National Executive Council.”

Thompson said he was grateful to the National Gaming Control Board for its support in 2011 and its sponsorship of naming rights to Goroka Show last year. 

He said they had already submitted financial statements to the board to ensure accountability of public funds.

Thompson thanked Unggai Bena joint district planning and budget priorities committe for the continued support and commended patron and MP Benny Allan.

The show will host its agriculture component with the Kangal Festival on the first day, while the last two days will coincide with the cultural show and independence celebrations. 

Thompson said since 2005 the Eastern Highlands provincial government had committed K10,000 but had failed to honour its commitment.

He said they anticipated that Governor Julie Soso would support the show financially.

Thompson said the association was conscious of concerns raised by organisers on sustainability and long-term development to promote the Goroka Show in line with the objectives and would separate the festivals.

He also attributed the success of the show to the tourism department.