Alan McLay

McLay passed away on January 3^rd, 2018, aged 72, at the ANGAU Memorial Hospital in Lae, Morobe Province.

The Lae Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) sent out an official announcement late yesterday afternoon of McLay’s passing.

McLay has been executive president of the LCCI for 22 years – from 1995 until his passing – and has served as Australian Honorary Consul in Lae from 2013 to 2017.

Born on January 16^th, 1945, in Victoria, Australia, McLay travelled to PNG as a kiap and worked in several areas around the country.

This is in recognition of the expanding trade partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia, and the growing profile of Lae, Morobe Province.

The Australian High Commissioner Bruce Davis was onsite at the Lae International Hotel, as operations commenced at the temporary office.

Davis formally thanked Australia’s Honorary Consul, Alan McLay, and former Honorary Consul, Phil Franklin, for their service over many years to assist Australians on behalf of the Australian Government.

The Department moved swiftly to erect a temporary crossing when the Arafin Bridge was washed away due to heavy rains last Saturday.

“Excellent work by the Department of Works in Morobe Province,” said Alan McLay, LCCI president.

“This (the bridge) will take a load of 44 ton. As it is only single lane, drivers are to approach it with caution.

“Give way signs will be erected so please take note and follow accordingly.”        

The temporary bridge was opened for public use midday yesterday.