Milne Bay pays tribute to ENB/MBP boating tragedy victims

‎In a combined solemn and heartfelt tribute to remember the 27 victims of the East New Britain and 11 in Milne Bay boating tragedy, the people of Milne Bay together with NGI community gathered on Sunday (16th August) at Milne Bay War Memorial, in the heart of Alotau town, for a 'Remembrance of Flames' ceremony.

‎The unity and support shown by both communities at the tribute was heartwarming, as people came dressed in black to pay tribute to the lives lost.
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‎A relative of some of the victims and representing the NGI community, Kolish Stanley, said her cousins were among the 27 people who lost their lives in ENB.
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‎"With families who are not able to travel back home to ENB to be with their families to grieve, Stanley, in a shaken voice, sincerely thanked the people of Milne Bay for coming together in joining them to pay their respects to their loved ones lost at sea.
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‎"Thank you for walking this journey of grief and remembrance with us.

"Despite our different provinces and communities, we are one people, one Nation Papua New Guinea. In times of sorrow, we stand together, in times of loss, we comfort one another," she said.

‎On behalf of the Milne Bay Provincial Government, Provincial Executive Council (PEC) Chairman for Works and Infrastructure, Transport, and Civil Aviation Chairman, Simeon Kawatalu, said the province is equally saddened by the tragic incident in both Milne Bay and ENB.

‎"It is a difficult moment, although we may not be able to take away your pain, we share in your sorrow and pray that you all find strength, courage and comfort in the days ahead" Kawatalu said.