Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has commended East New Britain Governor Hon. Michael Marum for his vision in reopening Rabaul Town, starting with the Queen Elizabeth Park Rugby League Ground, which hosted its first game in 30 years on Saturday, July 27, 2024.
Queen Elizabeth Park came alive for the first time in three decades since the volcanic eruptions of September 1994, with a Digicel Cup game between Rabaul Agmark Gurias and Lae Snax Tigers, which ended in a 14-14 draw.
“I commend Governor Marum for his leadership in the reopening of Rabaul, which has enabled the National Government to come in and assist going forward,” Prime Minister Marape said.
“The National Executive Council (NEC), at its meeting in Kokopo earlier this month, approved the uplift of the moratorium on Rabaul town and surrounding areas to allow for business growth and development.
“The moratorium has been in place since the twin volcanic eruptions of Tavurvur and Vulcan on September 19, 1994, which displaced over 100,000 people.
“The NEC has approved K10 million to assist the East New Britain Provincial Government in efforts to clear up ashes and reopen Rabaul. Additionally, K3 million will support Rabaul District’s work with the Lands Department to issue land titles to all those displaced during resettlement, K5 million for a study on the full costing of town restoration, and a K50 million initial funding envelope for the reopening of the port and other associated service facilities.”
Prime Minister Marape, a keen follower and supporter of rugby league, is happy with the redevelopment of Queen Elizabeth Park by Governor Marum, a former national player and coach.
“The long-neglected Queen Elizabeth Park has been redeveloped with facilities to host national events of importance,” he said.
“This is also an economic enabler development that benefits the community at large. I am happy to hear that the game drew truckloads of people from the four districts of East New Britain to Rabaul.
“I thank all the people of East New Britain and business houses for their support towards rebuilding Rabaul after 30 years.”