With Papua New Guinea just months away from marking its 50th Independence Anniversary, leaders and artists came together today to officially launch Meganesia, a unique cross-cultural concert set to unite Indigenous Australian and Papua New Guinean voices on one stage.
Held at the National Capital District Commission (NCDC) building, the press conference featured key dignitaries including NCD Governor Powes Parkop, Australian High Commission Counsellor Mr. Nicholas Kittel, and Artistic Director Airileke alongside a panel of international and local performers.
“Meganesia is more than entertainment—it’s a cultural handshake. It closes the Asia-Pacific story we started and opens the next chapter: our PNG Story,” said Governor Parkop.
“Events like this deepen our people-to-people ties and highlight the richness of our shared heritage,” added Counsellor Kittel, reaffirming Australia’s support for cultural diplomacy through the “Australia Now” initiative.
Artistic Director Airileke expressed that the vision behind Meganesia is to spark unity, pride, and recognition.
“This show brings together artists from Arnhem Land to the Highlands—connected by rhythm, storytelling, and culture,” he said.
The panel included artists such as Yirrmal, Kaiit, Mereani, and Albert (Abang) David, with others like Sam and Yosua Roem, Deline Briscoe, and Richard Mogu also present. PNG talents including Anslom, Sprigga Mek, Saii Kay, and Ton Ton were acknowledged as key acts for Saturday’s show.
The Meganesia performance will take place on Saturday 28 June, from 3PM to 9:30PM at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium with free entry for the public.
The event marks the conclusion of the Asia-Pacific Story and the beginning of the PNG Story, which will continue through July in the lead-up to the Golden Jubilee on 16 September 2025.
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