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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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The Late Max Benjamin was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award, on Thursday evening, April 10, during the National Tourism Conference & Expo (NTC) 2025 Gala Dinner, held at the Hilton Port Moresby Hotel and 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, whose support made it possible to honour the tourism legends of PNG in such a meaningful way.
The Lifetime Achievement Award was presented by Prime Minister Hon. James Marape and Minister for Tourism, Arts & Culture Hon. Belden Namah to Max Benjamin’s wife, Cecilie Benjamin, who accepted the award alongside their son Cheyne Benjamin. The event marked a moment of heartfelt remembrance and celebration of a man whose vision helped shape the face of PNG’s marine tourism.
The Benjamins joined two other proud recipients of the award: Bob Bates, proprietor of Trans Niugini Tours, and Andrew Barter, son of the late Sir Peter Barter, who accepted the honour with his wife Juanita on behalf of the Melanesian Tourist Services founder.
Max Benjamin’s journey in Papua New Guinea began in the 1960s when he arrived as a young man with a love for exploration and conservation. He went on to establish Walindi Plantation Resort with his wife Cecilie in Kimbe Bay, West New Britain, which has since earned international recognition for its world-class diving, marine conservation efforts, and commitment to sustainable tourism. Under the Benjamin’s leadership, Walindi became a flagship for responsible tourism, attracting scientists, divers, and eco-travellers from around the globe and putting PNG on the world diving map.
In her acceptance remarks, Cecilie Benjamin thanked the Prime Minister, the Minister for Tourism, PNG Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) and the PNG Tourism Industry Association (PNGTIA) for hosting an exceptional conference and Gala Dinner.
“A wonderful conference and an award that is a proud achievement for my husband,” said Mrs Benjamin.
She also reminded the audience of the unique treasure that PNG represents.
“Please, never compare Papua New Guinea to anywhere else on earth. This country is unlike any other — with its cultures, its biodiversity, and its pristine beauty. There is no place like PNG,” said Mrs Benjamin.
The Gala Dinner brought to a close the two-day National Tourism Conference, hosted on Wednesday 9 to Thursday 10 April, where tourism operators, government officials, development partners, and community leaders from across the country gathered under the theme “Honouring Our Past, Transforming Our Future” to celebrate 50 years of tourism and to chart the path forward for a vibrant, inclusive, and sustainable tourism industry.
Eric Mossman Uvovo, CEO of the Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA), praised the late Mr. Benjamin’s remarkable contributions to the sector:
“Max Benjamin was more than a resort owner — he was a true champion of eco-tourism, a protector of marine biodiversity, and a mentor to many in our industry. His passion and commitment to Papua New Guinea’s natural beauty and people have left a lasting legacy. On behalf of TPA and the tourism sector, we are grateful to Cecilie and Cheyne for travelling to Port Moresby to accept this award in his honour,” said Uvovo.
Photo Caption: Minister for Tourism, Arts & Culture, Hon. Beldan Namah, wife of the late Max Benjamin, Cecilie Benjamin, Cheyne Benjamin (son) and the Prime Minister of PNG, Hon. James Marape presenting the Lifetime Achievement Award to the Benjamins for the Late Max Benjamin’s contribution to tourism in PNG.
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The National Tourism Conference & Expo, is set to take place on Wednesday 9th to Thursday 10th April, 2025, at the Hilton Hotel Port Moresby, aligning with the Nation’s 50th Independence Anniversary.
The Papua New Guinea Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) urges tourism industry members, stakeholders, and business leaders to register for the much-anticipated National Tourism Conference & Expo 2025 (NTCE).
Under the theme “Honouring Our Past, Transforming Our Future,” the conference aims to bring together key industry players, government agencies, and international tourism experts to discuss strategies to advance Papua New Guinea’s tourism sector.
The event will be hosted by TPA in partnership Papua New Guinea Tourism Industry Association (PNGTIA) and sponsored by Mineral Resource Development Company (MRDC) as the event’s platinum sponsor.
TPA’s CEO, Eric Mossman Uvovo calls on all industry members to register and participate in the 2025 National Tourism Conference & Expo.
“We are calling on all industry players, from accommodation providers and tour operators to government agencies and corporate investors, to be part of this timely event.
This is more than just a conference, this is a catalyst to transform Papua New Guinea’s tourism sector for the future,” said Uvovo.
The Tourism Conference & Expo will feature panel discussions, keynote addresses, and networking opportunities designed to strengthen collaboration and innovation within the industry.
Over 35 expert speakers will share insights across eight conference sessions, while 300 participants and 43 exhibitors are expected to attend.
Interested participants can register through the TPA website. General admission fees are K1,000 per person, with discounted rates of K500 for PNGTIA, Surf, and Dive Association members.
For businesses looking to increase visibility, sponsorship opportunities are available under Gold, set at K100,000, Silver, at K75,000, and Bronze, at K50,000. Sponsors will receive premium branding exposure, VIP seating at the gala dinner, and media recognition.
Limited exhibition booth spaces are also available for corporates, at K1,500 or K700 for members of PNGTIA, offering businesses a chance to engage directly with potential clients and partners.
With the event drawing closer, TPA has set the deadline for registration: Saturday 29th March 2025. TPA urges all tourism industry stakeholders to secure their seats, exhibit their services, or take advantage of sponsorship packages before spaces run out.◼️
For more details, visit www.papuanewguinea.travel/ntc-2025/ or contact TPA’s event coordination team at ntc@papuanewguinea.travel
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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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