A fleet of 22 canoes from Patalok village, Karkar Island, is making its way to Madang town ahead of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence celebrations. The journey, led by Darius Wari, showcases the village’s rich maritime traditions and fishing heritage. “These fishermen have spent their lives on the water,” Wari said. “For the 50th Independence, we want to show our skill and endurance by paddling 32.9 nautical miles from Karkar to Madang. Each canoe represents one province, showing unity across our nation.” The canoes were specially crafted for the occasion and follow traditional trading routes from Karkar to Madang. Historically, villagers traded clay pots, garden produce, coconuts, and sing- sing items along this path. Wari noted the journey also honors Evangelical Lutheran Church missionaries who once traveled these waters carrying gospel messages. “The trip celebrates our identity, our culture, and our connection to the sea,” he said. The Karkar paddlers are expected to be a highlight of the four-day Independence festivities, demonstrating endurance, cultural pride, and community spirit.