PNG, Australia, UK soldiers share skills

The National National
Australian Army sappers from 3rd Combat Engineer Regiment joined engineers from the British Army and Papua New Guinea Defence Force for Exercise Puk Puk at Goldie River Training Depot in Papua New Guinea this month.
– Picture supplied

MORE than 1000 soldiers from the PNG Defence Force (PNGDF), Australian army and British army are taking part in Exercise Puk Puk to develop trade skills and for improve relations.
A statement from the Australian High Commission said engineers from the three armies worked on infrastructure at the Goldie River Training Depot outside Port Moresby. Lieutenant Desmond Reuben from the PNGDF said they were building an additional classroom and a demolition training facility.
Australian Army Captain Lara Perkovic said they were building a classroom and renovating the Guard Haus.
“Our main focus on this exercise is the people-to-people relationships and building our wantok with the PNGDF and British Army,” he said.
Lieutenant Hannah Garside of the UK 26 Engineer Regiment said everyone was excited to practise their trade.
“We hope to demonstrate our support for the ADF and PNGDF and build relationships,” Lt Garside said.