MOREHEAD workers in remote South Fly, Western Province have strengthened their skills, confidence, and job readiness in job sectors such as hospitality, agriculture, and engineering.
The workers completed a three‑week Kitchen Operation Essentials and Basic Housekeeping Operations training program at the new Morehead Development Hub.
The Morehead Development Hub is a multi‑purpose facility for training and local service delivery in the South Fly District.
Delivered by Pacific Australia Skills (PAS), the program brought together full‑time and part‑time workers from camp food services, housekeeping, facility maintenance, and farm operations.
Tailored for remote camp and facility environments, the training focused on practical, job‑ready skills that participants could apply immediately in their workplaces.
PAS is Australia’s regional investment in skills and training, supporting Papua New Guinea’s priorities to strengthen technical and vocational education and training (TVET), improve employment outcomes, and build a skilled workforce aligned with national development goals.
The training was supported through the PNG-Australia Partnership and reflects Australia’s commitment to localisation – training delivered by experienced Papua New Guinean skills advisers, backing local leaders, building local capability, and helping people access recognised skills and jobs where they live.
It will train farmers and support other development priorities, including water security, community and economic grants. The hub will run residential courses and train up to 44 participants at a time.
The program combined classroom sessions with hands‑on training in realistic work settings.
It strengthened understanding of professional standards, safety, and day‑to‑day operations. Participants built essential kitchen and housekeeping skills using the Hub’s facilities, completed practical and theory assessments, and received Certificates of Completion.
Mr Sobra Pid, a staff member at the hub who lives with a disability, said the training has increased his confidence and independence.
“The training gave me confidence in my own abilities. Learning practical skills like cooking and cleaning has helped me become more independent at work and in my daily life, and it motivates me to work harder towards supporting myself and my future,” he said.
Ms Megedeline Jobart, Vice President of the Morehead Women’s Council, said the training has given her skills that she will use to better support women and communities.
“The catering component of this training has been especially valuable and will help us deliver meals more effectively, even at short notice,” she said.
Ms Patricia Andrew, a casual staff member at the hub, said the housekeeping training helped her understand the importance of proper cleaning standards and grow professionally, improving her chances of securing full‑time employment in the future.
Through the PNG-Australia Partnership, Australia is building job‑ready skills and creating opportunities for Morehead workers in the South Fly District. This supports improved livelihoods and service delivery, including in hospitality and facilities management.