As Papua New Guinea celebrates 50 years of independence, a joint ADF medical team has been quietly ensuring the safety and wellbeing of everyone on board HMAS Choules, providing on-the-spot care to both ADF and Pacific partner nations personnel.
Royal Australian Navy Chief Petty Officer Peter Gough, Choules' clinical manager, is part of the Australian contingent deployed to Port Moresby for PNG's 50th anniversary of independence (PNG50). He leads the team, providing clinical medical care for personnel and supports operations during key events throughout the celebrations.
"Day-to-day here is providing health support for Australian contingent members and others. We make sure anyone needing further medical assistance can get it, so everyone else can focus on their job," Chief Petty Officer Gough said.
For many medics, this is their first deployment to PNG. Their prior joint training experience has helped them adapt to the ever-changing environment and demands of PNG50.
"The interoperability between services - working together to provide a one-health effect in a deployed space - has been remarkable," Chief Petty Officer Gough said.
Part of that capability included the use of a G-Wagon ambulance, which was stored aboard Choules and craned off for operations in Port Moresby.
"This is the first time in my career we've used the G-Wagon ambulance in Port Moresby," Chief Petty Officer Gough said.
'It's unique, rewarding and an essential part of PNG50.'
Royal Australian Air Force Flight Lieutenant Luke Williams, officer in charge of rapid evacuation and medical treatment, described the G-Wagon as "a small ambulance capable of operating in Port Moresby due to its agile manoeuvrability".
"It has IV fluids, oxygen delivery, defibrillators, monitoring devices, and can stabilise patients up to advanced life support," Flight Lieutenant Williams said.
"It's fully air-conditioned and ready for operational use."
The medical team is a true joint effort, combining expertise from the Navy, Army and Air Force. This integration has allowed them to respond rapidly to any health situation during PNG50.
"Watching the paratroopers go from aircraft boarding to drop zone recovery - and being there for any health needs - has been a highlight," Flight Lieutenant Williams said.
The medical team's role goes beyond emergency response. They ensure everyone can focus on operations and public celebrations with confidence that health support is ready.
"It's unique, rewarding and an essential part of PNG50," Flight Lieutenant Williams said.
