The official opening of the newly refurbished Gizo Police Station and upgraded Gizo Provincial Boat Facility on Tuesday marks a major milestone in strengthening security, creating jobs, and fostering development in the Western Province.
The ceremony, held in Gizo Tuesday, brought together key dignitaries including the Minister for Police, National Security and Correctional Services, Hon. Jimson Tanangada, Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) Commissioner Mostyn Mangau, and senior Australian government representative, Ms. Laura Darlington, Assistant Secretary of the Indo-Pacific Infrastructure Branch, Pacific Division.
In her keynote speech, Ms. Darlington emphasized Australia’s continued commitment to supporting Solomon Islands’ development.
She noted the occasion as a testament to the strong partnership between Australia and Solomon Islands.
“The refurbishment of the Gizo Police Station and Provincial Boat Facility demonstrates Australia’s dedication to improving infrastructure and supporting stability in the region,” Ms. Darlington said.
She revealed that the Gizo Provincial Boat Facility is one of six boat bases delivered across six provinces by Australia’s Department of Defence, built to support the new ALB Striker police boats, which were officially handed over in Honiara just a day prior and are now being deployed to the provinces — with Gizo as a priority recipient.
She announced the installation of 71 solar lights across Western Province under the Community Solar Lighting Program, with 40 lights positioned in Gizo to boost public safety and nighttime security.
“These infrastructure projects not only strengthen policing and safety but also drive economic growth by engaging local workers and building essential community skills,” she added.
Local trades people from Gizo, including painters, carriers, and labourers, were contracted to carry out the refurbishment works, which concluded in 2023.
Their involvement was described as vital in both the police station renovation and the upgrading of the boat facility.
Ms. Darlington commended the RSIPF for their adaptability in using the boat facility as temporary accommodation during the police station’s construction phase, highlighting their resourcefulness in ensuring continuous operations.
Beyond security enhancements, she emphasized the broader socioeconomic impact of the projects, saying: “These efforts will create jobs and open new opportunities for our children to thrive.”
She also reaffirmed Australia’s support for provincial policing and tourism development in Gizo, noting the region’s potential as a key tourism and economic hub.
She ended her remarks with appreciation for the collaborative efforts of Solomon Islands’ leaders and communities.
“These works are a reflection of our shared commitment to build a safer, more resilient future for all communities across the Solomon Islands.
The event capped off a significant achievement in bilateral cooperation and local empowerment, signaling a new era for infrastructure development in the Western Province.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
