Locals mark Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels Day

THE Kokoda Track Authority joined local communities to celebrate Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels Day yesterday.
The government had set aside a national day to recognise the heroic assistance provided by PNG nationals during World War II.
The idea came from former tourism minister Charles Abel during a walk along the track that year with Authority chief executive officer James Enage to pay tribute to PNG citizens who contributed significantly to the war, risking their lives for what the country enjoys today.
Yesterday, Enage opened the celebrations at the Kokoda Station featuring cultural performances by communities from Kokoda.
The communities put on performances showcasing their traditional heritage and dramas to share the stories of their ancestors who assisted Australian diggers along the track during World War II.
Authority official Sylvia Pascoe said they received funding through tour operator licenses and permits that were paid to walk the track.
This went towards managing the track and the communities.
She said each ward along the track received K10,000 to further assist them with rice farming and other agricultural projects.
She said this year’s theme “Following in their footsteps” were to be highlighted in the performances.
The most significant part of the celebration was the flag raising ceremony.
The flag was raised at Kokoda Station by Australian troops on Nov 3, 1942, when the Japanese troops retreated.