Work to start on transforming Colts Oval

Work is expected to start soon on the Colts Oval in Port Moresby that will see it transformed to AFL standards.

This comes after a ground-breaking ceremony that was held yesterday at the Bisini Grounds.

The event was witnessed by Australian High Commissioner to PNG, Bruce Davis, Sports Minister, Justin Tkatchenko, CEO of the PNG Sports Foundation, Peter Tsiamilili Jr, sponsors, administrators and players.

Garrett Construction has been tasked to turn the home of AFL in PNG into a state league standard facility that will include a proper playing surface, grandstand with roofing and a clubhouse with amenities.

Deputy Chairman of the AFL PNG Commission, Loi Bakani thanked the government for recognising the sport of AFL that has a following and is slowly growing in the country.

“There are big things coming for AFL PNG. The redevelopment of Colts is the start and a positive way to develop the sport,” said Bakani.

Sports Minister, Justin Tkatchenko said the signing of the sub-lease for the Colts Oval is the last piece of land that will be developed properly at the Bisini Grounds to be completed under the PNG Sports Foundation Trust.

“This project is a partnership between the national government, AFL PNG, the Australian government and many others that have all come on board.

“Thank you to everyone involved in making this project a success. We look forward to this development which will be the first of its kind in PNG for AFL,” said Tkatchenko.

The Colts Oval was gifted by Sir Donald Cleland back in 1953 to start an AFL competition.

Author: 
Troy Taule