MORE than 100 Pacific musicians gathered in Port Moresby this week in a celebration of music and policing.
Australia and the region performed at the inaugural Pacific Police Tattoo at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium.
Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary Commissioner David Manning congratulated the musicians from around the Pacific for their commitment and dedication to their craft and police work.
“This event has not only deepened the bonds between our organisations, but it has also demonstrated the strength of regional policing partnerships in action,” Commissioner Manning said.
The Royal Tongan Police Band took top honours while Samoa was the crowd favourite, Fiji embodied the spirit of the event, and the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary was best in drill.
Tonga Police Force Band Director, Superintendent Siosaia Mohenoa, said their mission was to: “Share our musical talent and connect with our fellow Pacific police band members.
“We feel honoured and grateful. But first of all, and most importantly, we give thanks to God.”
The Tattoo, presented by the RPNGC, with support from the Australian Federal Police (AFP), displayed the culture and talent of nine bands:
- The RPNGC Band
- PNG Corrective Services Band
- AFP Pipes and Drums
- New Zealand Police Pipe Band
- Samoa Police Band
- Fiji Police Force Band
- Royal Solomon Islands Police Force Band
- Nauru Police Force Band
- Royal Tonga Police Force Band
AFP Assistant Commissioner Pacific Command Nigel Ryan said the tattoo was a chance to celebrate, enhance and amplify critical Pacific partnerships.
“The AFP is a preferred partner of choice in the Pacific for peace, security and prosperity,” AC Ryan said.
“What the Tattoo has done is bring together police tradition with Pacific music and culture, showcasing and strengthening our partnerships in ways that go beyond simply policing.’’
