AUSTRALIA VISITS TEMOTU FOR SECOND APPOINTED DAY
Australia’s High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton, travelled to Temotu Province to join Premier Stanley Tehiahua and the people of Temotu in celebrating the Province’s Second Appointed Day.
The visit highlighted the strong and enduring partnership between Australia and Temotu Province, with the High Commissioner participating in official celebrations and community events alongside Premier Tehiahua.
While in Lata, High Commissioner Hilton formally handed over the recently refurbished Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Station and the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO)—two critical facilities that support safety, security, and disaster preparedness in the province.
High Commissioner Hilton was accompanied by the Minister for Police, National Security and Correctional Services, Hon. Jimson Tanangada, who received a briefing on Australia’s ongoing support for the Eastern Border Outpost—a key initiative to strengthen Solomon Islands’ maritime security and border management in the eastern region.
Australias’ High Commissioner to Solomon Islands, His Excellency Rod Hilton.
During the visit, Premier Tehiahua proudly showed High Commissioner Hilton the recently arrived Tepuke—a traditional canoe carved in the Reef Islands and sailed to Lata for the Second Appointed Day. The historic voyage of the Tepuke is a powerful symbol of Temotu’s cultural heritage and resilience.
The visit also marked the conclusion of a successful mission by the Solomon Islands – Australia Community Partnerships team, who handed over several community development projects across the province, including:
• Water tanks in Matema and Nangu, improving access to clean drinking water;
• Solar power installation at Nuoba Clinic, enhancing health service delivery;
• A new toilet block at Baenga Primary School, supporting better hygiene and learning conditions for students.
“It’s a privilege to celebrate Temotu’s Second Appointed Day with Premier Tehiahua and the people of this proud province,” said High Commissioner Hilton. “Australia is committed to working in partnership with Solomon Islands to support strong institutions, resilient communities, and a secure and prosperous future.”
This visit underscores the depth of the Solomon Islands – Australia relationship and the shared commitment to delivering practical outcomes for communities across the country.
ENDS//
– AHC Press Release