27 Mar 2010

PNG villagers reportedly benefitting from infrasture improvements near Kokoda

10:12 am on 27 March 2010

Papua New Guinean villagers are reportedly benefitting from infrastructure improvements near the Kokoda Track through Australian-funded work on the road to historic Owers Corner.

Australia's special envoy on Kokoda, Sandy Hollway, and local representatives on Thursday visited Kokoda's southern end, where each year thousands of Australians start or end the rugged 96 kilometre trek.

Championing the new Kokoda Alliance between Australia and PNG, Mr Hollway says he's pleased with the upgrade of such a vital road and the construction of small bridges.

He says it's not just a project to bring people to or from Owers Corner, but the road improvement helps local people getting to and from Port Moresby.

Mr Hollway says there's a joint understanding between Australia and PNG which governs the work done in relation to the Kokoda Track.

He says that arrangement expires this year and effort must be made to ensure the momentum is maintained.