PNG unveils WWII memorial after Andrew Forrest-led expedition discovery
Memorials to commemorate the Australian airmen killed in Papua New Guina during World War II have been erected in Gasmata after a search spearheaded by billionaire Andrew Forrest uncovered their final resting place.
For almost five years the mining magnate has bankrolled the search for the plane of his uncle David Forrest, a flight officer who was among the Australians killed in 1943.
While the search for David was unsuccessful, the mission led to the discovery of two RAAF Beaufort Bombers and the resting place of the young Australian crews using deepwater sonar technology.
Forrest travelled to Papua New Guinea and stood alongside Prime Minister James Marape during a traditional ceremony to unveil the two memorials, configured using an engine and a propeller from the Beaufort A9-186.
The aircraft was one of four downed in Gasmata in 1943, one year after the village and an airstrip had been occupied by Japanese forces.
The billionaire —whose private charity Minderoo has since bankrolled health and women’s and maternity services in the region — was anointed a traditional chief of the area in recognition of his contribution to the region.
During the unveiling, Forrest declared the tribute a powerful symbol of the relationship between the two nations.
“Our children, and the generations before us, now rest in the heart of your lands. They lie together, our sons and daughters alongside yours, forever part of your beautiful home,” he said.
“They remain in your heartlands, just as they remain in our hearts. We feel their presence in the love we share for those who came before us, those who have lived and celebrated life before us in Papua New Guinea and Australia.
“Today, we honour them. We celebrate their union – lost to us in body, but forever united in the land and sea of your homeland. And through them, we too are joined as family.
Andrew Forrest and Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape during the unveiling at Gasmata.Credit: Alexander Forrest.
“This is about honouring the sacrifices of your mothers and fathers, who stood side by side with our soldiers to liberate and give back your beautiful homelands.
“As we reflect on the connection forged between your villagers and our airmen and soldiers, we now celebrate the deep heritage we share through these enduring monuments.
“These relics, of the depths of your waters, stand as eternal reminders of the price paid for our freedom. A reminder that we must use it wisely, with responsibility and selflessness.”
Marape thanked Forrest for his investment and advocacy and emphasised the need to preserve the planet for future generations.
Forrest has vowed to continue the search for his uncle’s aircraft, deploying high-tech equipment that includes vehicles capable of being operated remotely and reaching depths of 1000 metres.
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