Exciting Coral Discoveries in Port Moresby Harbour

Hello friends and supporters!

We've been quiet for a while because we've been busy, but now we're thrilled to update you on our recent activities.

In mid-June, the Olgeta Foundation had the incredible opportunity to support a team of scientists, in collaboration with John Miller and Prodive, aboard the MV Golden Dawn. This mission focused on an environmental assessment of the outer regions of Port Moresby Harbour, and the findings were both fascinating and eye-opening.

The team identified an impressive 224 species of hard coral across the bay, including several new records for the region and numerous rare species. They also discovered a variety of soft corals, black corals, and gorgonians. The high diversity of corals in the bay is attributed to the range of environments and unique geography of the area. Papua New Guinea is located within the "coral triangle," known for the highest global coral diversity.

However, the team observed concerning signs of recent high mortalities on the reefs, likely due to mass bleaching events driven by human-induced climate change and increased seawater temperatures. Unfortunately, mass bleaching has devastated reefs worldwide over the past decade.

Additionally, the assessment noted a significant reduction in fish life, indicating the impact of overfishing in the area. Despite these challenges, parts of the reefs remain spectacular and vibrant, showcasing their resilience and beauty.

We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to support this important work and to collaborate with dedicated scientists. Together, we can make a difference in protecting and preserving the natural beauty and biodiversity of Papua New Guinea.

Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm. Stay tuned for more updates and ways to get involved in our conservation efforts!

Golden Dawn's Dry Dock Success: A Heartfelt Thank You

At the end of June and through the first two weeks of July, the MV Golden Dawn underwent a crucial dry dock period at the PNG Dockyard in Port Moresby. During this time, essential maintenance was performed on the vessel to ensure its readiness for upcoming missions.

The hull received thorough attention, concluding with the application of new antifoul. The Naiad Stabilizers were serviced, and both the liferaft and firefighting equipment underwent rigorous checks and maintenance. Additional work was carried out on deck, further enhancing the ship’s readiness for future operations.

The MV Golden Dawn crew worked tirelessly throughout this period. Yard work is never easy, especially in an environment that operates 24/7, where noise, dust, and dirt can be overwhelming. Despite these challenging conditions, the crew demonstrated remarkable dedication and efficiency, completing the necessary tasks in a remarkably short time. Kudos to the crew for their hard work and determination!

We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to PNG Dockyard, Peter Curtain, Justin McGain, Dale Santacatterina, Brendan Hill and the entire management team. Your unwavering support, high-quality service, and assistance were invaluable in ensuring that the MV Golden Dawn could launch successfully and be ready for its next missions, helping those in need.

The Olgeta Foundation deeply appreciates your commitment and partnership. Your contributions have not only helped maintain the vessel but also ensured that we can continue our vital work. We look forward to many more successful collaborations in the future.

Thank you once again for your dedication, excellence in service, incredible support, and for helping us make a difference.

Significant Progress in Hospital Bed Donation Project for Remote PNG Regions

 Brisbane, April 23, 2024 – The Olgeta Foundation, in collaboration with Someone Who Cares, has received a significant boost with the arrival of the first two containers holding a total of 114 hospital beds at Motukea in Port Moresby. This milestone is part of a broader initiative aimed at improving healthcare infrastructure in the remote regions of PNG.

The logistical challenges of transporting and storing such essential equipment were adeptly handled by Curtain Brothers, who have been instrumental in ensuring the safekeeping of the containers. This collaboration highlights the crucial role of local businesses in supporting healthcare projects.

The third container, expected to arrive by mid-year, will contain hospital bed mattresses and additional medical equipment, further enhancing the capabilities of the Sinifara Aid Post. The arrival of these resources is eagerly anticipated as they are crucial for the full operationalization of the donated beds.

In related developments, the Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital (RBWH) is completing an audit and is expected to announce a quota matching the beds donated. This marks the first time RBWH has contributed to this cause, underlining their ongoing commitment to supporting health initiatives beyond Australian borders.

The project now moves into a critical phase—distributing these beds to the remote and often inaccessible regions of PNG. This effort will involve careful planning and coordination to ensure that the beds reach those who need them most, addressing a significant gap in healthcare accessibility in the region.

This initiative not only promises to enhance the healthcare landscape in PNG but also sets a precedent for international cooperation and local business involvement in critical healthcare infrastructure projects.

For continued updates on this project, stay tuned to our future reports.