By MATTHEW VARI
Sunday, December 7, 2014 (Sunday Chronicle, PNG)
AFTER months of campaigning to achieve the impossible in completing the purchase of their new vessel- there is so much to celebrate as YWAM Medical Ships Australia (YWAM MSA) has finalized the purchase of the new Training and Medical Ship, the MV Ammari for Papua New Guinea (PNG).
The MV Ammari will replace the retired MV Pacific Link, which has been operating in PNG since 2010, achieving over 249,000 health and training services including immunizations, maternal health services, dentistry procedures, optical and ophthalmic services and in-service training for rural health workers.
The MV Ammari will be able to access more villages for longer periods than the former vessel and will increase YWAM’s service capacity by more than 500%.
The vessel will dock in Townsville’s Marine Precinct this morning after visiting 8 ports along the Australian coast including Cairns, Townsville, Mackay, Gladstone, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Newcastle and Sydney – completing its ‘Overcoming the Impossible’ campaign.
YWAM MSA’s public awareness 'Overcoming the Impossible’ fundraising campaign kicked off in July this year with the goal of raising $6.5 million AUD (K14.4 million PGK) for the purchase of the MV Ammari, recruiting volunteers, collecting medical supplies and equipment and raising awareness about Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) critical health concerns.
"We are delighted to announce the impossible has truly been overcome with this historic achievement to strengthen our relationships with our nearest neighbor,” YWAM MSA’s Managing Director, Ken Mulligan said.
“There have been thousands of people that have contributed to the acquisition of the MV Ammari both in Australia and PNG.”
“It has truly been a collaborative effort, we are so, so grateful for each and every person that has given to this cause.”
The biggest contribution was received in PNG two weeks ago at a fundraising dinner in Port Moresby where $2.8 million AUD (K6.19 million PGK) was received in pledges and cash from National and Provincial Governments and corporate donors.
In addition to the millions raised for the new vessel, over 18,000 people visited the vessel along the coast and over 1,000 medical and marine professionals and general volunteers have registered their interest in volunteering with YWAM MSA in PNG.
“It has been wonderful to see Australians rally with compassion for our nearest international neighbor, PNG and respond with their time, money, and resources.” said Mr Mulligan.
YWAM MSA Australia’s Patron, Mike Reynolds, said that the purchase of the ship is an incredible achievement that both Australians and Papua New Guineans should be very proud of.
“This is an incredible achievement for the very dedicated team of YWAM volunteers who are based in Townsville and the purchase of the MV Ammari will produce long lasting health and training benefits for the people of PNG, our nearest neighbor.” said Mr Reynolds.
YWAM MSA’s PNG Patron and former PNG Prime Minister, Sir Rabbie Namaliu said that the acquisition of the MV Ammari will help thousands of people receive health care and training services in rural and remote areas.
“I am immensely proud of our organization – its philosophy and its people,” Sir Rabbie said.
“The impact of this work is immense as we have served to help bridge a critical gap in basic rural health services.”
The MV Ammari will commence renovations early next year before making its maiden voyage to PNG next year.
The re-fit will be conducted in stages and will include a dentistry clinic, operating theatre, outpatient facility and laboratory.
“It has truly been a story of incredible collaboration from everyone and we look forward to continuing with our many partners.” said Mulligan.
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