Buk bilong Pikinini Extends Gratitude to Mr. Andrew Dare, outgoing General Manager for Hastings Derring PNG and Solomon Islands, for His Outstanding Leadership and Support
Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea – On behalf of Buk bilong Pikinini and the communities we serve, we extend our deepest gratitude to Mr. Andrew Dare for his unwavering support and leadership as General Manager of Hastings Deering PNG & Solomon Islands and as a dedicated Board Director and former Vice-Chair of Buk bilong Pikinini board. Andrew has played a crucial role in furthering our mission of providing quality literacy resources to children across Papua New Guinea.
Since the inception of our partnership which has seen the provision of secured storage space, over a million books have been stored and passed through the Hastings Deering facility, helping BbP to distribute books to over 800 schools and communities across Papua New Guinea. Each year, BbP dispatches up to 200,000 books, ensuring children have access to high quality books and literacy resources. Currently, BbP is storing essential educational games, puzzles, early childhood teaching resources, and just over 185,000 books in five 20-ft containers, 80% of which are books published by Buk bilong Pikinini. One such book was created in partnership with the team at Hastings Deering and is entitled “When I Grow Up I want to be a Heavy Equipment Operator”.
Currently at Hastings Deering yard at Hohola, Buk bilong Pikinini is able to store essential educational materials, including games, puzzles, early childhood teaching resources, and over 185,000 books, 80% of which are BbP-published books—in five 20-ft containers. This incredible logistical support from Hastings Deering has been instrumental in reaching children who otherwise would have limited or no access to educational tools.
Additionally, under Andrew’s leadership, Hastings Deering generously donated over 10,000 books to schools in the remote areas of Teleformin and Tabubil, reinforcing educational opportunities in these hard-to-reach communities. These contributions have made a tangible difference, bringing hope and growth to countless children.
Andrew has also been instrumental in having the Hastings Deering team host wonderful student excursions where Buk bilong Pikinini students were able to visit and learn about operating heavy machinery and equipment which will be treasured experiences in the start of their educational journeys.
As Andrew now prepares to leave PNG and return to Hastings Deering in Australia, BbP wants to express our deepest appreciation for his incredible commitment, generosity, and advocacy for literacy. His contribution at the BbP Board of Directors has been substantial has made an immense impact on the organisation, ensuring children across PNG have the opportunity to learn and grow through BbP’s Early Childhood Education program and Library services.
Thank you, Andrew, for everything you have done. You will always be a part of the Buk bilong Pikinini family, and we wish you nothing but success in the next chapter of your journey.
