NATIONS UNITE FOR RENDER SAFE IN PNG
MORE than 1600 explosive remnants of war have been identified in East New Britain during Operation Render Safe 2025 — a month-long multinational planning mission led by the Australian Defence Force (ADF) in partnership with the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF).
ADF Contingent Commander Major Joseph Gurung said the operation was an important step towards improving safety in affected areas.
“Our team supported communities across Rabaul, Kokopo and Gazelle districts.
With our international partners, we worked together to improve safety for local people.” Working closely with local communities, the multinational teams used historical records, satellite imagery, and local knowledge to identify areas where unexploded ordnance (UXO) is located, so that future disposal efforts can be most effective, reducing the risk of harm.
Australian Army combat engineer Sapper Jack Furnyvall supported land access arrangements and helped establish safe storage sites for recovered UXO.
“Everyone’s warm and welcoming. They know we’re here to help make things safer for them and their families — that makes a difference.”
PNGDF soldier Ordinary Seaman Ronald Baloiloi shared local knowledge and wartime history with ADF and international personnel.
“Being able to share my country’s history with our partners meant a lot.” In addition to the ADF and PNGDF, the mission brought together explosive ordnance disposal specialists, engineers and support staff from the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, France, New Zealand and Canada.
PNGDF members led local engagement, while Japan provided medical and logistics support in remote areas. Personnel from France, Canada and New Zealand strengthened survey capacity, working shoulder to shoulder with ADF and PNGDF members in challenging conditions.
Papua New Guinea Defence Force officer Lieutenant Henri Beri and Australian Army officer Captain Steven Smith prepare to visit reported unexploded ordnance sites during a community engagement activity in Rabaul, East New Britain.
