Frank Hanrahan volunteering in Papua New Guinea

Archdiocese of Madang, Papua New Guinea

Madang, set on the North coast of Papua New Guinea, is renowned for it's beautiful beaches, volcanic islands and coral reefs. Though often seen as idyllic and untouched, Papua New Guinea's aging bulidings, roads and other infrastructure suffer from the effects of torrential tropical rains, cyclonic winds, floods, tsunamis, earthquakes, landslides and volcanic ash.

The Catholic Archdiocese of Madang is responsible for many schools, hospitals, clinics, community centres and churches throughout Madang Province, which extends from the coast back to Mt Wilhelm, the country's highest peak. Many of these buildings were constructed in German and Australian colonial days and are in need of ongoing maintenance and renovation.

At present there are several local staff working for Madang Archdiocese in the area of maintenance, however they require additional skills which will take time and mentoring to develop.

Frank Hanrahan

Palms Australia recruited Frank Hanrahan, a carpenter from Bungaree to work in Madang for two years. He will work closely with local staff, sharing skills and expertise and contributing to long-term sustainable development.

Frank has many years of experience in carpentry and joinery. He has worked on many building sites, including new houses, renovations and extensions.

Frank's experience in a rural setting will help him adjust to life in Madang and explore techniques with local staff which are applicable and sustainable in their context.

In letters of recommendation, Frank has been described as a hard-worker, most reliable and a positive member of any team. He remains fit and active and brings enthusiasm and energy to his work.

Frank will now contribute to reducing poverty in Papua New Guinea, by developing the skills of local tradespeople to increase their opportunities and ensure future development for the people of Madang.