Australian sappers from the 3rd Combat Engineer Regiment joined forces with engineers and tradespeople from the British Army, New Zealand Army, and the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) for Exercise Puk Puk at Moem Barracks, PNG.
This annual engineering exercise aims to strengthen the capabilities and relationships between the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and the PNGDF while focusing on vital infrastructure repairs.
During the exercise, the sappers carried out extensive refurbishments at Moem Barracks, including repairs to the guard house, live-fire range, obstacle course, and side access roads.
Other key projects included repairs to Puk Puk bridge, the installation of new lighting and ceiling fans in the church, and an upgraded power supply to the medical centre to ensure proper storage of vital medicines.
Lieutenant Colonel Francis Vitata, Commanding Officer of the 2nd Royal Pacific Island Regiment, highlighted the importance of these efforts.
“There are three essential lines of effort for looking after PNGDF soldiers: feed the soldier, clothe the soldier, and house the soldier,” Lieutenant Colonel Vitata said.
“The key for me is the infrastructure. Many of these buildings, built in 1974, have deteriorated over time, and the refurbishments are focused on training, maintenance, and operational readiness.”
Lance Corporal Bayley Glover, the lead electrician on Exercise Puk Puk, reflected on the improvements made to the barracks, including the transformation of the guard house.
“When we arrived, the guard house was in poor condition—cracked windows, no working lights or ceiling fans, and peeling paint,” said Lance Corporal Glover.
“A well-maintained place of duty fosters a sense of pride and encourages soldiers to carry out their duties properly.”
The team also revitalised the overgrown obstacle course and live-fire range. According to Lance Corporal Glover, the course was redesigned, including a new jump point at the end, providing a challenge for soldiers and enjoyment for local children who have been using it after hours.
Meanwhile, repairs to Puk Puk bridge—an essential route connecting Moem Barracks and local villages—were also a priority.
“The bridge had missing timber and metal frames, forcing us to drive Army trucks through sand, which often got stuck,” Glover said.
Local villagers helped dig out the vehicles before Australian, New Zealand, and UK soldiers completed welding repairs, reinforcing the structure with metal and timber.
Lieutenant Colonel Vitata acknowledged the broader impact of the exercise, not only on the soldiers but also on the local community.
“The refurbishments cater to what is missing for the soldiers and their families,” he said.
“It speaks volumes about the relationship between the PNGDF and the Australian Defence Force.”
Exercise Puk Puk continues to build both infrastructure and international cooperation, ensuring that PNGDF soldiers have the resources they need to serve with pride.
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