Excitement is growing in Madang as the province prepares for its 50th Golden Jubilee celebrations, which started with a float parade on Friday 29th August. More than 30 groups took part in the float parade, including schools, businesses and community organizations. The procession began at Laiwaden Field and traveled through Modilon Road, Nabasa Street and Kalibobo Drive before finishing at Bates Oval. Committee Chairman Sigi Beschel said the parade highlighted Madang’s creativity and unity. He thanked schools, churches and businesses for their support. Security was tight with community policing units and transport corridor patrols in place. Madang Provincial Hospital provided medical support, including ambulance escorts, midway safety posts and emergency teams were on standby too. Meanwhile, a bike race is set to take place on Sunday August 7th as part of celebrations. The Golden Jubilee bike race from Alexishafen to Laiwaden Oval will see cash prizes of up to K3,000 for winners. Registration for the bike race closes this Friday 5th September. Madang is preparing to mark PNG's 50th Independence anniversary in true style, with both safety and celebration at the heart of the events.