Western province–Australia partnership delivers agricultural hub in Morehead

The Western Province–Australia Partnership Agreement continues to deliver tangible development outcomes, with the opening of a new Agricultural Training Facility and the completion of 40 bore water wells across drought-vulnerable communities.

Governor Taboi Awi Yoto officiated the opening of the state-of-the-art Agricultural Training Facility and Hub this week in Morehead, South Fly. He said the facility will upskill local subsistence farmers and support their transition to modern, commercial farming practices.

Yoto also handed over three timber milling machines to communities. The machines will help locals process timber for infrastructure and community development projects without relying on outside suppliers.

The agreement was first signed in 2020 and renewed in 2023. It is built on eight strategic pillars and co-chaired by the Western Province Administrator and representatives of the Australian High Commission. Under the arrangement, the Australian Government funds 90% of projects while the Fly River Provincial Government contributes 10%.

A key focus has been water security in South Fly. Governor Yoto said 40 bore water wells have been completed in 40 inland communities identified early as highly vulnerable to drought. With current dry conditions setting in, the wells are now critical for those communities.

The governor also raised concerns over delays to two major commitments under the 2020 and 2023 agreements: the Daru Port Development Project and the upgrade of Daru Level 5 Hospital. He confirmed FRPG is ready to pay its 10% share and urged for work to commence soon.

“Through this Partnership, we continue to see the value of strong collaboration in delivering practical and sustainable development outcomes for our people,” Yoto said.