Papua New Guinea....Independence Day. 

The colonial era in Papua New Guinea began in 1884.

 In 1984 the nation celebrated its Centenary Year.

On the 16th September 1975, Papua New Guinea’s Independence Day was celebrated. On this exciting and enjoyable day, people came from everywhere. They came from the mountains, across the swamps and rivers, through the valleys and from the small islands that surround Papua New Guinea.

 Many of the people wore their own bush costumes. Theses included tapa cloth, grass skirts, plumes of the bird of paradise, dogs teeth, shells, beads, flowers and feathers. Some wore painted masks, wigs of human hair, and bodies gleaming with oil.

 The P.N.G. Independence Day celebrations were held on Independence Hill within the capital city Port Moresby. Thousands of people turned up for the celebrations. The P.N.G. flag was raised, and then each member of Parliament was sworn into the office of government. (Including the Governor General -Sir John Guise.)

 

In attendance were:

 Prime Minister:                                Michael Somare

Deputy Prime Minister:                     Sir Albert Maori Kiki

Governor – General:                         Sir John Guise

The leader of the opposition:             Tei Abal

 

Prime Minister of Australia:            Gough Whitlam

Governor – General:                      Sir John Kerr

J.K. Murray:                                 The first Administrator of P.N.G.

D.O. Hay:                                     One of the last Administrators of P.N.G.

C.E Barnes:                                   The former Minister of Territories.

Prince Charles:                               As a representative of Queen Elizabeth 11

 

Soon after this ceremony, some trees were then planted to symbolize the future growth of this nation.

An enjoyable day was experienced by all who attended.

               

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