Team WHP seeks aid

 By ELIAS LARI

TEAM Western Highlands is hoping to have more sports and athletes in its contingent to November’s PNG Games and is working to secure enough money through sponsors and fundraising.

Team Western Highlands has taken part in PNG Games since its inception in 2003.

Due to strong performances at the biennial event, the management is hoping a larger contingent will mean more medals. Western Highlands finished sixth at the last games in Kokopo in 2012.

The Western Highlands provincial government has allocated K200,000 this year for the games but the management is seeking sponsors to raise the same amount to help pay for the contingent to Lae.

A corporate dinner was hosted last Friday, with the K200,000 cheque presentation by the provincial government.

Fundraising organising committee chairman, Robert Mek said that this year their aim was to not leave behind any teams.

Mek said at previous games many had been left out because of funding problems and this year they were hoping to take all teams.

He said funding was the only obstacle to bringing the contingent to the games.

“We are already doing fundraising and we will continue to do so that funding can be available for the whole team to take part,” Mek said.

“We all have to play our part and help Team Western Highlands put up a strong challenge to the other centres.”

Mek said those interested in supporting the team could contact him on 72873607, Team Western Highlands chairman Steven Moka on 71893542, or the community development office on 5423793 or 5423457.

Direct deposits can be made to: Western Highlands Sports Development, ANZ Bank, Mt Hagen branch, Account Number: 13670812.