So Big Pat and his poro (mate) used the time productively for fishing. “We were kind of stranded but enjoying lots of barramundi. Anyways, one morning my buddy wanted to go to the toilet. Turns out there was a problem - the house of mercy was waterlogged. But the situation was urgent, so holding toilet paper over his head, he waded to the convenience.

“Next minute I heard a loud scream and when I looked up I saw an isapea (crocodile) lazily swimming towards the toilet. My poro was piripou (trouser)-less, and scrambling to climb onto the toilet roof. Fortunately Mother Nature saved him coz it seems the croc had already eaten.”

SEARCH FOR SERVICEMEN KILLED IN FOREIGN WARS

Papua New Guinean film-maker Martin Maden says the 30 Tolai members of the German civilian police, killed when Australian forces invaded the Gazelle Peninsula in the early days of World War I, were not the first Papua New Guinean casualties of war. In Tok Piksa, a blog that isn't current but tells some good stories, Maden says the first Papua New Guineans to fall in international conflict died in German Africa in the late 1800s. Maden is now seeking better verification of the role Indigenous servicemen played in Germany's colonial history. “Part of the search for our own Papua New Guinean boys lost on foreign soil may lead us to some German graves in Africa, where our boys may be buried, Maden says.

RESPECTFUL WORKPLACE BRINGS ITS OWN REWARDS

“Respect is not just a mere act of politeness,” writes Eddie Kabuni, in Mindblown, a blog about philosophy. “It also has a profound impact on the lives of those on the receiving end. When we treat people with respect, we acknowledge their worth and value. This acknowledgment fosters a sense of belonging and boosts their self-esteem. In a world that often glorifies status and power, it is crucial to remind ourselves of the significance of treating every individual with respect and dignity.

“Regardless of their role, everyone deserves to be acknowledged for their contributions and valued as equals.” Eddie’s blog is an uncommon reminder of how embracing a culture of kindness and respectful behaviour, especially in the workplace, “uplifts the spirit and self-esteem of our colleagues and creates a positive and harmonious environment where collaboration, innovation, and success can flourish.” Good words from a thoughtful man.

BALIMO GETS A MEDICAL AVIATION BASE

An MAF (formerly Missionary Aviation Fellowship) team from Mt Hagen has moved, along with its aircraft, to Balimo in Western Province. MAF says the deployment of the Rominger and Little pilot families to Balimo will increase medical support of people and communities in remote areas of the under-serviced province. In 2022 MAF pilots flew 62 emergency medical evacuation flights.