Kokoda 80th Anniversary commemorated in PNG on ANZAC Day

More than 2000 people turned out at the ANZAC Day commemoration in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, on Monday April 25, 2022.

This year’s event marked the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of Kokoda. Attendees remembered all those who paid the ultimate sacrifice to keep not only PNG free, but Australia as well.

“The bond between these two countries is something that is uniquely hard to describe, it really needs to be felt,” said Glenn Maitland LM, President of the Port Moresby RSL Sub Branch. “The Diggers and the Fuzzy Wuzzy Angels forged it, and all who attended on Monday ensured that it not only carries on, but that it grows in stature each year.”

“In attendance was His Excellency Sir Bob Dadae, The Governor General of PNG. The Usual Heads of Missions, Defence Representatives of various nations, Royal Papua Constabulary and of course, the general public have all assisted us in making it one of PNG’s best Commemorations ever,” Mr Maitland said.

“Homage was also paid to our great mates across the ditch in New Zealand, who were with us on that very first day 107 years ago and are still with us today. The symmetry in these two relationships is not lost on anyone who attended on Monday, and the commitment of those who still serve today ensure that it will go on forever.”