More than 2200 munitions were disposed of across East New Britain during Operation Render Safe 2026.
The explosive remnants of World War II were located across the Rabaul, Kokopo and Gazelle districts by the Australian Defence Force-led multinational team, working with Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) personnel.
For the more than 430,000 people living across East New Britain’s 15,500 square kilometres, the impact of removing the hazards represents land returned to communities, reduced risks for families, and greater opportunities for social and economic development across the province.
Now in its 22nd year, Operation Render Safe involves partner nations locating, identifying and safely disposing of explosive hazards across the south-west Pacific.
In East New Britain, PNGDF personnel were able to provide local knowledge, community connections and operational expertise critical to the mission’s success.
Director of the East New Britain Provincial Disaster and Emergency Services Centre Donald Tokunai said explosive remnants of war continued to affect communities more than 80 years after the end of the war.
“The number of war remnants in our communities is huge. While many items have already been disposed of, new discoveries continue to be reported,” Mr Tokunai said.
“These hazards threaten lives, property and development across East New Britain.”
‘We have seen overwhelming support across the region, and we’ve helped create safer communities for future generations.’
Mr Tokunai said removing them was essential to improving community safety and unlocking future opportunities.
“Because of the nature of unexploded ordnance, incidents can have devastating consequences for individuals, families and communities,” he said.
“Clearing these items promotes community safety and supports development across our province.”
Officer Commanding Operation Render Safe Major Joseph Gurung said improving public safety was a driving desire for participating personnel
“One of the things that motivates our teams is the opportunity to help local communities by increasing public safety through the removal of explosive remnants of war,” Major Gurung said.
Mr Tokunai said the presence of multinational teams in local communities encouraged residents to report suspected hazards.
“The presence of the ADF, PNGDF and all uniformed members in communities inspires people to come forward and report unexploded ordnance, helping us identify hazards that may otherwise remain undiscovered,” he said.
“The presence of Operation Render Safe teams in our communities has given people confidence and inspiration.
“We have seen overwhelming support across the region, and we’ve helped create safer communities for future generations.”
