Sir John pledges support

PNGOC head vows more focus on helping sports

SIR John Dawanincura has pledged more focus on supporting national federations following his re-election to a third and final term as Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) president.
He retained the position following elections during PNGOC’s annual general assembly in Port Moresby on Saturday.
As per the PNGOC constitution, the PNG Electoral Commission conducted the elections using an exhaustive ballot process.
Sir John surpassed challenger, Papua New Guinea Softball Federation president Ralph Tarasomo in the second round of voting by one vote after the third candidate for the position, Karo Lelai (Basketball Federation of PNG), was eliminated in the first round.
He has pledged to carry on the important work that PNGOC has established and see new developments during his time at the helm.
Among these are a good governance structure, the hosting of the 2015 Pacific Games and Team PNG’s success and the recent establishment of PNG Olympic Haus.
Sir John brings with him leadership, continuity and stability for another four years as well as knowledge based on his experience and networking in PNG and the region.
“I’d like to thank Karo and Ralph for putting up her names due to the democratic process that we abide by, and I thank you all for casting your votes,” he said.
“I also take note of the voices of national federations as valued members with focus on more support for them.”
Meanwhile, Tony Green (Athletics PNG) is PNGOC’s new senior vice-president, taking over from Mel Donald who vacated the seat after serving the three-term limit (four years per term).
Donald is a former representative shooter and has been on the PNGOC board since 2004.
PNG Volleyball Federation president Kila Dick unseated Michael Henao (BFPNG) for the male vice-presidency while Iammo Launa became the new female vice-president which was left vacant by Emma Waiwai who was nominated for the senior vice-presidency.
Grace Mataio was elected unopposed as treasurer.
It was previously occupied by Tamzin Wardley, whose tenure also ended after she had reached the three-term limit.
Wardley has been on the PNGOC board since 2004. During that time, she has led Team PNG as chef de mission to a number of Pacific, Pacific Mini and Commonwealth Games.
She was appointed to be the chef de mission again to the Tokyo Olympics, which has now been postponed to next year.
Meanwhile, Faye-Zina Lalo also retained her role as legal adviser on the board unopposed.
The final postion voted on was fundraising chairman. For that position, Henao was voted to replace Syd Yates who has also reached the term limit.