In a powerful display of teamwork and environmental stewardship, Hilton Port Moresby and the Valley Hunters Rugby Club joined forces on March 8, 2025, to mark World Wildlife Day with a hands-on conservation initiative at Port Moresby Nature Park.
Players, hotel staff, and volunteers came together to plant trees, restore habitats, and take part in educational sessions on wildlife conservation. This collaboration was part of Hilton’s Travel with Purpose program, which focuses on sustainability and community-driven initiatives.
Speaking at the event, Florida Gulaseni, Hilton Port Moresby’s Marketing and Communications Manager, highlighted the significance of the partnership, “This program is part of Hilton’s global Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) strategy, which aims to create a positive impact on the environment and the communities where we operate. By supporting sustainable tourism and providing opportunities for local communities, we are driving meaningful change.”
For the Valley Hunters Rugby Club, the event was an opportunity to give back beyond the rugby field. Co-Captain Jonah Tokiong shared an inspiring message, quoting Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
Then he took this time also to share the team’s aims and their next collaboration program with Hilton, “Our team is built on values of discipline, teamwork, and community service. Partnering with Hilton for this conservation effort allows us to use our platform for a greater purpose. We’re also looking forward to continuing this partnership in June for Operation Open Heart Foundation, where we will support Hilton’s next charitable initiative.”
As Papua New Guinea’s only internationally recognized wildlife park, Port Moresby Nature Park plays a crucial role in conservation and education. Hosting over 130,000 visitors annually, the park has earned multiple international awards for its work in preserving the country’s unique biodiversity.
Francis Gundu, Acting Conservation Manager at the park, expressed his gratitude for the volunteers.
“On behalf of our management team, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Hilton and the Valley Hunters Rugby Club for their support. Initiatives like these are essential in protecting PNG’s wildlife and ensuring future generations can experience our country’s natural beauty.”
What started as a simple day of volunteering became a powerful reminder of how teamwork and community involvement can drive meaningful change. By uniting for a common cause, Hilton Port Moresby, Valley Hunters Rugby Club, and Port Moresby Nature Park have set an inspiring example, one that proves small actions today can create a legacy for tomorrow.