Support to Arafura Games

The biennial Arafura Games in Darwin, Australia, have grown considerably and now enjoy participation from all over the world. For PNG, the Games are used strategically as a development "stepping-stone" for development squads in different sports, to give them exposure to international competition and help prepare them for Pacific Games and other international events. The winning teams from PNG Games are automatically eligible to enter the Arafura Games. Arafura is therefore an important link between national-level competition and international elite competition. The development focus means PNG's participation in Arafura is coordinated by PNG Sports Foundation rather than PNG Sports Federation & Olympic Committee Inc, and it is less about winning medals and more about improving personal team performances. Nonetheless, in 2009 Team PNG had a very successful medal haul at Arafura. PNG Sports Foundation also ensures that PNG coaches and officials participate in the sports conference sessions that are an integral part of the Arafura Games program.