Five firefighters, including a female officer, have travelled to Taiwan to take part in a 12-day specialized training on “Emergency Response on Ships” under the Global Port Safety Project, funded by the European Union and the French Government.

The program will be delivered by the French Navy Fire and Rescue Service in partnership with the New Caledonia Fire and Rescue Directorate.

Training will focus on marine firefighting and rescue operations, including standard operating procedures for shipboard fire suppression, maritime firefighting equipment, investigation processes and team management.

Acting Inspector (Training) Naomie Ruben said she was proud to be selected as a pioneer trainee and to represent the Papua New Guinea Fire and Rescue Service (PNGFRS) in the specialized course.

“I am happy to learn what’s best internationally and give back to my country to protect our wharves and communities,” Inspector Ruben said.

The 25-year-old from Chimbu Province holds dual diplomas in Local Level Government (LLG) and District Development Authority (DDA) Management and Public Administration from the Somare Institute of Leadership and Governance (SILAG).

She said increasing opportunities for women within PNGFRS were helping to change perceptions in the service.

“With PNGFRS giving more opportunities to women, we can show we are capable of what’s once dominated by men, from firefighting to training and administration,” she said.

“Personally, I am thankful to take the challenge to learn new things that will improve my career and the function and service delivery of PNGFRS.”

Chief Fire Officer Bill Roo, speaking during a farewell ceremony on Friday 16th January, said the training was well-timed following the expansion of PNGFRS responsibilities under the new Fire and Rescue Service Act, which now includes rescue services.

“You are privileged to undergo this pioneer training. This is timely when we have added responsibilities under the new Act. Embrace the opportunity and learn as much as you can. When you return, depart those skills and knowledge you gained to your colleagues and comrades,” Roo said.

The firefighters attending the training are Acting Boroko Fire Station Commander Inspector Terence Taolam, Sub Officers Ishmael Thomas and Caspar Daniel, Inspector Naomie Ruben, and Firefighter Flemming Komick.