ADMINISTRATION of PNG from 1920 gave many Australians rich experiences of a country that was remote, dangerous and full of exotic adventures.
Palmwoods resident, Bruce Hope, taught in PNG schools and was part of the administration of the country for 16 years up until independence in 1975. His experiences have been recorded in a
self-published book called ‘Tyimbu’ (Chimbu – the main highlands tribe). For the many expats from PNG this will bring back memories of life in this often stone age land, where to ‘go troppo’ was a common hazard.
There are tales of bizarre tribal practices including marriage, child birth and payback, as well as stories of real life people like Matron Bernadette Thornbury, former Coast Watcher Eric Walmsley, and nautical trainer, Chris Noonan.
These short and pithy tales are full of fun and pathos excitement, and near-death experiences, particularly when it comes to travel and transport throughout this remarkably mountainous country. Bruce carefully steers a path away from colonial patronising and cultural superiority to a genuine delight and often wonder at the astonishing rich culture of Papua New Guineans. There is a lot to delight in this simple but multi-layered little book.
‘Tyimbu’ – Tales from Papua New Guinea.
Pub: Bruce Hope. Tel: 5445 0662
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