Australian bushfires

Prime Minister James Marape farewelled the troops along with Government and Australian High Commission officials.

The soldiers from the Engineering Battalion of the 1^st Royal Pacific Island Regiment (1PIR) and a small liaison and support staff make up the 17^th Kumul Force.

They will be deployed for three months to carry out routine clearance tasks of roads and bridges blocked by fallen trees so firefighters could get to affected areas in rural communities.

These devastating fires have so far burned over 17 million acres of land, killed at least 25 people, half a billion animals and destroyed millions of dollars’ worth of properties.

The airline’s response is in support of the PNG Government’s offer to provide firefighters and Defence Force soldiers to combat the spread of fires, and adds to relief efforts being currently coordinated by the Australian Defence Force.

Users are posting them to raise awareness of the devastating fires, but some of the viral maps are misleading, spreading disinformation about the crisis.

The months-long fires have killed at least 25 people and millions of animals, and destroyed more than 2,000 houses.

After milder weather brought brief respite last weekend, fire crews are preparing again for worsening conditions as temperatures are predicted to soar on Friday.

Artist's visualisation misinterpreted

In a statement conveying PNG’s sorrow to the families and loved ones of victims of the fire tragedies in Australia, and to the greater Australian people, Prime Minister James Marape said he has been in constant dialogue with Prime Minister Scott Morrison in the last few weeks.

He said PNG will deploy assistance upon the Australian PM’s invitation.

“Papua New Guinea convey our sympathies, sorrow and grief in your moment of pain,” said Marape.