LATE OSBORNE’S IMPACT BEYOND PERSONAL CONNECTION
By Wasita ROYAL, Kokopo
As the sun was about to set over the volcanic Island Home-East New Britain, people gathered silently as they entered the Raluana United Church to bid farewell to Late Graham Leslie Osborne, a New Zealander but became a part of the Tolai community in East New Britain, through close acquaintance, friendship and family bonds.
Graham’s story has shown the power of friendship and how people can connect across cultures.
He was born in the small town of Matamata and left New Zealand in 1967, beginning a journey that would take him to Papua New Guinea.
In the busy city of Port Moresby, he made his name in the hospitality industry.
But it was meeting the Moramoro family that changed everything for him.
Drawn in by their kindness and rich traditions, Graham quickly became a key member of the family, joining in every celebration and event.
“Graham was more than just a friend or business partner to us,” said George Moramoro, son of the late Dr. Moseley Moramoro.
“He was like a brother to my father. His love for our country and our people showed in everything he did.”
As Graham’s ties to the Raluana community grew stronger, he embraced the Tolai culture.
He contributed to the traditional obligations in our clan and was part of the custom activities.
Known for his fun spirit, he brought joy to many gatherings, making him a favorite among his friends and Papua New Guineans.
“He was a true ambassador for our country,” said George Moramoro, who spoke at the church.
“Graham loved Papua New Guinea, especially East New Britain and AROB.
He welcomed our way of life, and we welcomed him as one of our own.
PNG is poorer for losing such a vibrant person.”
Graham’s impact has gone beyond personal connections.
As the chairman of the PNG Sports Foundation, he helped organize the Pacific Games in 2015 and the FIFA Women’s Under-21 World Cup in 2016, showing the world the beauty of his adopted country.
His commitment to helping others has left a lasting impression on the nation.
He is resting alongside his Brother Dr Moseley Moramoro at the Tagurir cemetery in Raluana village on the 22nd of November 2024 at 3pm.
Leaving his home country to serve another land, and choosing it as his final resting place, is both heart-wrenching and deeply emotional as his New Zealand family and relatives came all the way from their home country to lay him rest which has portrayed the deep connection he had built with the Raluana people.
As the sun set, mourners gathered around Graham’s grave, their hearts heavy with the loss of a man who had become a cherished part of their lives. Yet in the soft sounds of the wind and the rustling palm leaves, his spirit lived on—a reminder of the strong bonds that can connect people from different places.
May his soul rest in peace, in the land he chose as his own.
