PNG Independence-Era Flagpole Relocated to Walume

A key symbol from Papua New Guinea’s Independence celebrations has been given a new life in Southern Highlands Province, with the original 1975 flagpole now standing in Walume, Imbonggu District.

The 35-metre flagpole was used during the historic ceremony when the PNG flag replaced the Australian flag, marking the country’s emergence as an independent nation on September 16, 1975.

 PNG Independence-Era Flagpole Relocated to Walume

Justice and Attorney General Pila Niningi said the preservation of the flagpole was driven by the need to safeguard the nation’s heritage rather than allow such an important item to be forgotten.

He said the Australian flag was lowered at Konedobu on September 15, 1975, ahead of the formal raising of the PNG flag at Independence Hill the next day.

Mr Niningi said he obtained approval from the appropriate authorities before arranging for the flagpole to be relocated from Port Moresby.

The minister personally financed the move, spending K12,000 to transport the pole from Port Moresby to Lae Wharf and then to Walume.

He said the flagpole symbolises the leadership of the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare, whose role in leading PNG to independence remains central to the nation’s identity.

Now standing tall in Walume, the flagpole is believed to be the tallest within any district in Southern Highlands Province and is expected to become a place of national reflection.

Community leaders say the site will serve as an educational and cultural landmark for future generations.

“This was not an item that should have been disposed after a new pole was installed,” Mr Niningi said.