Community rallies to raise $13,500 for PNG villages

A fundraiser at the Mapleton Men’s Shed has raised more than $13,500, setting in motion the first stage of a project to improve education and medical facilities for remote villages along Papua New Guinea’s Ghost Mountain Trail.

The event, organised by local adventurer Peter Gamgee and supported by the Mapleton Lions Club and the Mapleton Mens Shed, drew a large crowd eager to hear fascinating tales of history and discovery. Former patrol officers Col Young and John Brady opened the evening with stories from their time in PNG before the country’s independence.

After intermission, Peter captivated the audience with the account of his years-long search for the lost World War II aircraft known as Flying Dutchman. His presentation also touched on the challenges faced by the villages along the trail, including the lack of even basic resources.

One example shared was that of a lady with a debilitating and life threatening ulcerated leg. She was five days walk from any road, but refused to be flown out or leave the village. Peter and his companion treated her as best they could and then had to leave her behind fearing the worst. Returning with trepidation two years later, they were overjoyed to find she had survived. Just basic medical assistance probably saved her life.

The Mapleton Lions Club played a vital role in the evening, greeting guests, selling raffle tickets, serving food donated by the Men’s Shed, and assisting with clean-up.

Funds raised will go directly toward stage one of the assistance plan, aimed at delivering much-needed support to the communities Peter has worked closely with through his expeditions.

For those who missed the event, Peter’s books — which were also sold on the night — remain available, with all profits helping to fund ongoing efforts to improve life along the Ghost Mountain Trail. Contact Peter.Gamgee@bigpond.com