For the first time in its 48-year history, the Eastern Papua Cup (EPC) Games has established dedicated on-site medical cover, led by Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) medical officer Major Ainessa Kuliniasi.

Hailing from Misima Island in Milne Bay Province, Major Kuliniasi serves as a matron at Taurama Military Hospital and heads emergency response for the PNGDF. She is also a qualified aeromedical specialist and operates her own mobile holistic healthcare business.

Now in the sixth week of the tournament, Major Kuliniasi initially attended the EPC Games with her family as a spectator and small business owner. However, following several early on-field injuries, the EPC organising committee recognised the urgent need for professional medical support and formally engaged her services.

Since stepping into the role, Major Kuliniasi and her medical team have provided vital frontline care throughout the tournament, treating match injuries, managing dehydration caused by intense El Niño heat conditions, and coordinating referrals for serious cases to Port Moresby General Hospital and private medical facilities.

Major Kuliniasi emphasised that her involvement is driven by community service rather than financial gain. She is calling on sporting administrators and event organisers nationwide to prioritise player and spectator safety by ensuring proper medical protocols are in place for all future tournaments, festivals, and contact sports such as football and rugby.

According to Major Kuliniasi, essential medical standards for sporting events should include:

• Standby ambulance services and dedicated on-site medical personnel.

• Clear emergency referral pathways to major hospitals.

• Mandatory medical clearances for participating athletes prior to competition.

• Pre-tournament safety and hydration awareness for teams and officials.

Noting that medical statistics from this year’s EPC Games indicate a high rate of physical contact injuries, she urged participating clubs to ensure their players are physically and medically prepared before taking the field.

As a proud Milne Bay woman, Major Kuliniasi reaffirmed her ongoing commitment to supporting the EPC Games, stating she will always step forward to help safeguard not only the athletes, but also the mothers, families, and civilians attending the annual community gathering.