The Lae City Authority (LCA) has officially assumed control of the Sir Ignatius Kilage Stadium in Lae from the PNG Sports Foundation (PNGSF). The transfer of ownership follows the execution of a five-year lease agreement between LCA Chief Executive Officer, Robin Calistus and PNGSF Chief Executive Officer, Albert Varatau in October 2023. Acknowledging the milestone, Member for Lae and Chairman of the Lae City Authority board John Rosso expressed gratitude to Minister for Sports Don Polye for facilitating LCA's management of the facility. He emphasized the commitment to utilize the stadium for the betterment of Lae residents and Papua New Guinea as a whole. "It has taken a couple of months to finalize the lease agreement details, and I want to assure you that we will collaborate closely with the PNGSF to enhance and maintain the stadium," stated the Deputy Prime Minister. Rosso highlighted LCA's track record in managing parks and recreational spaces across the city, underscoring the allocation of funds to ensure the efficient operation of the stadium. In an official handover ceremony, LCA CEO Robin Calistus announced that the LCA board has sanctioned an operational budget to facilitate the transition, including the appointment of new management to oversee the facility. Furthermore, LCA now oversees the entire indoor and outdoor stadium facilities, encompassing the netball and volleyball courts adjacent to the Lae Rugby League ground. Meanwhile this move aligns with Deputy Prime Minister Rosso's vision to revitalize Lae, fostering an environment reminiscent of its prosperous past where families can enjoy safe and peaceful recreational spaces.