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Proprietor of Trans Niugini Tours, Bob Bates, honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award during the Gala Dinner segment of the National Tourism Conference & Expo (NTCE2025) on Thursday 10 April, at the Hilton Port Moresby Hotel & Residence.
The Lifetime Achievement Awards were proudly sponsored by the Platinum Sponsor of the National Tourism Conference & Expo, the Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) and its subsidiaries. Their partnership played a significant role in recognising industry legends who have shaped the tourism landscape of Papua New Guinea.
The award was jointly presented by the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, Hon. James Marape, and the Minister for Tourism, Arts & Culture, Hon. Belden Namah, in recognition of Mr. Bates’ lifelong commitment to developing and promoting tourism in Papua New Guinea.
Mr. Bates joined two other proud recipients recognised for their legacy and contributions to the tourism industry. These included Andrew and Juanita Barter, who received the award on behalf of the late Sir Peter Barter, founder of Melanesian Tourist Services Ltd; and Cheyne and Cecilie Benjamin, the son and wife of the late Max Benjamin, proprietor of the iconic Walindi Plantation Resort in West New Britain Province.
With more than four decades of service to the tourism sector, Bob Bates has long been a cornerstone of adventure and eco-tourism in Papua New Guinea. He arrived in the country in the early 1970s and quickly established Trans Niugini Tours, which has since become one of PNG’s most respected inbound tour operators.
His company is known for its commitment to cultural authenticity, environmental conservation, and community-based tourism. From setting up eco-lodges in remote parts of the country, such as Rondon Ridge, Karawari Lodge, and Ambua Lodge, to organising carefully curated cultural tours and expeditions, Mr. Bates has helped place Papua New Guinea on the global tourism map.
Bob Bates offered his thanks to the Prime Minister, the Minister for Tourism, PNG Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), and the PNG Tourism Industry Association (PNGTIA).
“I thank you all for this honour — although I must say, I’ve still got another 40 years in me, so it’s not quite a ‘lifetime’ yet!” said Bates.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, commended Mr. Bates for his remarkable contribution.
“Mr Bates is a name that resonates across the tourism industry not just in PNG but internationally. His deep respect for local culture, his investment in sustainable tourism, and his pioneering spirit have inspired generations. On behalf of TPA and the entire tourism family, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and thanks for his dedication to Papua New Guinea.”
Photo Caption: L-R): Minister for Tourism, Arts & Culture, Hon. Beldan Namah, proprietor of Trans Niugini Tours, Bob Bates and the Prime Minister of PNG, Hon. James Marape presenting the Lifetime Achievement Award to Bob Bates during the presentation at the Hilton Port Moresby Hotel & Residence.
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The legacy of the late Sir Peter Barter, was honoured during the National Tourism Conference & Expo (NTCE) 2025 Gala Dinner, held on Thursday 10 April at the Hilton Port Moresby Hotel & Residence.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was proudly sponsored by the Platinum Sponsor of the NTCE2025, the Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) and its subsidiaries, who played a key role in supporting the event and recognising industry leaders.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Sir Peter’s son, Andrew Barter, who received the honour on behalf of his late father, alongside his wife Juanita Barter. The award was presented by the Prime Minister of Papua New Guinea, Hon. James Marape, and the Minister for Tourism, Arts & Culture, Hon. Belden Norman Namah, in recognition of Sir Peter Barter’s lifelong service and contribution to the tourism sector in Papua New Guinea.
Andrew and Juanita joined two other proud recipients of the evening: Bob Bates, proprietor of Trans Niugini Tours, and Cheyne and Cecilie Benjamin, the son and wife of the late Max Benjamin, founder of the world-renowned Walindi Plantation Resort in West New Britain Province.
Sir Peter Barter’s name is etched into the foundation of PNG tourism. After arriving in Papua New Guinea in the years prior to the 1970s, he later established Melanesian Tourist Services Ltd, which would go on to operate the Melanesian Discoverer expeditionary cruise and Madang Resort Hotel, helping to position Madang as one of the country’s leading tourism destinations. Beyond business, Sir Peter was known for his deep cultural appreciation, his strong love for the people, which he supported through the Melanesian Foundation, and his passion for promoting PNG’s diversity to the world.
The late Sir Peter Barter was also a prominent figure in Papua New Guinea’s government, serving as Minister for Health and Bougainville Affairs during the early 2000s under the Somare Government. As Minister for Bougainville Affairs, he played a key role in the peace and reconciliation process following the Bougainville Civil War, helping to rebuild trust and to strengthen dialogue. He also served as Governor of Madang Province, where he championed
rural development, health, education, and tourism, leaving a lasting legacy for the people of Madang and Papua New Guinea.
The Gala Dinner marked the close of a two-day national conference, hosted on Wednesday 9 to Thursday 10 April, where tourism operators, government officials, development partners, and community leaders gathered to reflect on the past 50 years of PNG tourism and plan for its next chapter under the theme: “Honouring Our Past, Transforming Our Future.”
Chief Executive Officer of the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), Mr. Eric Mossman Uvovo, praised the late Sir Peter’s enduring influence.
“Sir Peter Barter was not only a pioneer in the tourism industry but a statesman, philanthropist, and a prouder Papua New Guinean than most Papua New Guineans. His efforts extended far beyond economic gain — he championed peace, culture, and inclusive development through tourism. On behalf of TPA, I thank Andrew and Juanita for travelling to Port Moresby to receive this honour. It was a truly special moment,” said Uvovo.
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Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority’s (TPA) CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo, has commended all industry members, stakeholders, and participants for their contributions to the successful staging of the National Tourism Conference & Expo 2025, held from Wednesday 9 April to Thursday 10 April at the Hilton Port Moresby Hotel & Residence in Port Moresby.
Through a statement, Uvovo expressed heartfelt appreciation to the national leaders, corporate sponsors, tourism operators, community representatives, and development partners who came together to honour five decades of tourism in Papua New Guinea under the theme “Honouring Our Past, Transforming Our Future: 50 Years of PNG Tourism.”
“This week’s events have been nothing short of extraordinary. We gathered not only to celebrate 50 years of tourism in our beautiful country, but to honour the visionaries, communities, and industry builders who laid the foundation for where we are today,” said Uvovo.
The event was also a tribute to three iconic figures who have shaped the course of tourism in the country — the late Sir Peter Barter, the late Mr. Max Benjamin, and Mr. Bob Bates. These individuals were honoured during the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Awards segment of the Gala Dinner.
TPA CEO, Mr. Eric Mossman Uvovo, acknowledged their lasting legacy and the profound impact of their work.
“We honour the families of these great pioneers who dedicated their lives to building Papua New Guinea’s tourism industry from the ground up. Their vision, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment continue to inspire us.
And to Mr. Bob Bates — the last strong man still standing in PNG’s tourism legacy — we salute you. Your resilience and lifelong service are a beacon for the generations to come,” said Uvovo.
The CEO acknowledged the generous support of the event sponsors, highlighting the Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) and its subsidiaries as Platinum Sponsor.
“Your investment and belief in the future of PNG tourism empowered us to host this event and recognise the legends of our industry with the honour they deserve,” he said.
He also extended gratitude to the Gold Sponsors,’ OK Tedi Mining Limited and ExxonMobil PNG, and the Bronze Sponsors, the Department of National Planning & Monitoring and China CSCEC Steel (PNG) for their partnership and continued support in strengthening tourism in Papua New Guinea.
Over the two-day conference, more than 300 participants engaged in sector updates, strategic panel discussions, and keynote presentations from leading tourism and business figures. Day One focused on post-COVID recovery, sustainability, SME development, and access to finance, with compelling input from speakers such as Alan Manning, Moses Wai, Andrew Abel, Dominic Sikakau, Lloyd Piari, and Cheyne Benjamin.
Day Two shifted toward the future, featuring sessions on investment, infrastructure, connectivity, and destination marketing. Presenters included John Tuaim, Fantasha Lockington, Simon-Marc Brendling, Gibson Holemba, Dominic Kaumu, Walter Yangomina, Charlie Wanma, David Rawlings, Noor Ahmad Hamid, Hannah Pearson, and Dr. Marcus Lee.
“To everyone who participated, from SMEs and landowners to youth representatives and investors, thank you. You are the heartbeat of this industry. Your stories and energy are shaping a future that is sustainable, inclusive, and authentically Papua New Guinean,” said Uvovo.
He noted that the outcomes of the conference provide a strong platform for future international milestones including Expo Osaka 2025 and the PNG-China Tourism Year 2026, as well as renewed commitment to improving industry standards, financing access, and digital marketing strategies.
Uvovo also extended special thanks to the TPA organising team, the PNG Tourism Industry Association (PNGTIA), and all the behind-the-scenes staff whose hard work ensured a professional and meaningful event experience.
“As we close this week of celebration and reflection, I thank you all for believing in the power of tourism to connect people, preserve culture, and transform lives. Let us move forward with pride, unity, and a shared purpose to take PNG tourism into the next 50 years,” said Uvovo.
📸Photo Caption: (L-R) Tourism Promotion Authority CEO Mr. Eric Mossman Uvovo, Minister for Tourism, Arts & Culture, Hon. Belden Norman Namah, Prime Minister Hon. James Marape, and Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) Managing Director, Mr. Augustine S. Mano.
The Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), in partnership with the Papua New Guinea Tourism Industry Association (PNGTIA), announced the National Tourism Conference & Expo 2025.
The event will convene leading experts, industry stakeholders, and key decision-makers to explore critical issues, discuss emerging trends, and plan a sustainable course for the future of tourism in the country.
A significant highlight of the announcement was the presentation of the Platinum Sponsorship from Mineral Resources Development Company (MRDC) and its subsidiaries. MRDC, a major investor in tourism and hospitality and instrumental in bringing the international Hilton brand to Papua New Guinea, has demonstrated its commitment to the sector’s growth through the contribution.
Hon. Belden Norman Namah, Minister for Tourism, Arts & Culture, states the strategic importance of the conference within the broader context of Papua New Guinea’s development. “This National Tourism Conference is a key component of the PNG Tourism Sector Development Plan, which recognises tourism as a vital renewable resource,” said Minister Namah. “This conference will serve as a catalyst, awakening the immense potential of the tourism industry and encouraging Papua New Guineans to recognise the ‘pot of gold’ that exists within this sector.”
Mr. Eric Mossman Uvovo, CEO of the TPA, remarked on the significance of the conference for industry stakeholders, “The PNG Tourism Industry Association, represent over 60 members, including hoteliers, transport providers, tour operators, artisans, and trekking companies. The conference serves as a vital conduit for facilitating knowledge exchange and driving the development of actionable strategies to promote sustainable growth. Additionally, the conference will feature an exposition open to the public, allowing people to explore and understand more about the diverse packages offered.”
Mr. Augustine Mano, Managing Director of MRDC, explained MRDC recognises the immense, long-term potential of the tourism sector to contribute to Papua New Guinea’s economic diversification and sustainable development. Mr Mano explained, “Our investment in this conference, along with our broader commitment to tourism and hospitality through initiatives like the Hilton brand and infrastructure development in the communities we serve, reflects our vision for a future beyond extractive industries.”
“Tourism can complement extractive resources, as it offers a lasting benefit for our people. That’s why our investments, in aviation, finance, healthcare, real estate, power generation, all contribute to building a foundation that supports and promotes tourism. This conference will be instrumental in shaping that sustainable future and helping our communities thrive in the tourism industry.” Mr Mano said.
The National Tourism Conference will address a wide range of critical topics, including sustainable tourism development, destination marketing, cultural preservation, infrastructure development, and community engagement. It will provide a valuable forum for participants to network, share best practices, and collaborate on initiatives to enhance Papua New Guinea’s tourism offerings.
Further details about the conference, including dates, venue, and registration information, will be released soon.
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