Today, we honour the remarkable midwives who commit themselves to promoting safe and healthy pregnancies and births globally. At Caring for Kiriwina, we acknowledge the essential contributions of trained and registered midwives in empowering women and families, especially in our cherished Kiriwina and neighbouring islands. They play a crucial role in supporting our untrained Village Birth Attendants.
Thank you to all the midwives for your unwavering commitment, compassion, and support. Your work changes lives and brings joy to families every day. 💖
Join us in honouring these remarkable individuals and acknowledging their impact on maternal and child health. Together, let’s continue to advocate for and support midwives everywhere!
We are pleased to share Caroleen’s thoughts on the celebrations below:
What unfolded was more than a meet-and-greet; it was a beautiful expression of unity, purpose, and humble service.
From the leadership of Reverend Tom Tovaboda, to the heartfelt welcome by the VBAs, and the strong support from Councillors Rurupa M’Toubulu and Alfred, every moment reflected a community rising together. I was deeply moved by the sincerity and quiet strength of our VBA team—their hospitality spoke louder than words.
As the benediction was given by Pr Peter Elijah, it felt clear: this work is guided, blessed, and set apart for impact.
Grateful to stand in this mission alongside Caring For Kiriwina.
The procession of the welcoming event
Meet and Greet Acknowledgement Note
We extend our heartfelt appreciation and warm welcome to all our honored guests who have graced this special Meet and Greet ceremony.
We acknowledge the presence and leadership of Convener Reverend Tom Tovaboda and his wife, Marama Mary Tovaboda, whose guidance continues to strengthen this mission. We also warmly recognize Head Pastor Peter Elijah and his wife Florie Elijah for their faithful spiritual leadership.
Our sincere appreciation goes to Deacon Lepani Ahab and his wife Evelyn Ahab for their dedicated service, and to Probation Minister Gabriel Magidena for his commitment to ministry and growth.
We are deeply honored by the presence of our community leaders: Honorable Councilor Rurupa M’Toubulu of Kavataria and Honorable Councilor Alfred of Omarakana, whose support uplifts and empowers the work within our communities.
We respectfully acknowledge Chief James Samson of MLosaida for his leadership and cultural guidance, and Men’s Fellowship President Reuben Reuben for his role in strengthening fellowship and unity among the men.
Your presence today reflects unity, shared purpose, and a commitment to serve. Together, we move forward in faith, collaboration, and dedication to the wellbeing of our communities. And not forgetting Sir Tok’s father who humbly presents himself.
On the stage during the eventMore photos of the gift giving event
A total of 206 VBAs attended the event.
The precious pearls of Kiriwina
Post written by Snr Caroleen Baine, VBA Coordinator, Caring for Kiriwina
We are thrilled to share the latest on our ongoing initiatives at CFK. This week marks the beginning of an important chapter—focused, purposeful, and filled with hope.
Receiving essential reports, connecting with willing volunteers, and distributing birthing kits were invaluable opportunities that set the stage for our work ahead. Each greeting, every warm welcome, and every open door reminds us that this effort was set in motion long before today.
Productive days, not only in our accomplishments but in the groundwork we are laying for future success.
Thank you for your continued support and dedication. Together, we are making a difference.
Caroleen, our new Midwife and VBA Coordinator, is receiving a Birthing Record Book from the family of the late Bokawau (former midwife and VBA Coordinator).
We would like to take a moment to sincerely thank the individuals and groups who have embraced Caroleen into the Kiriwinan community with such warmth, making this occasion truly special.
1. Pastor Peter Elizah and his wife Florie Elizah – Kavataria United Church Pastor 2. Lepani Ahab and his wife Evelyn Ahab – Kavataria United Church Deacon 3. Kavataria United Church Women’s Fellowship Executives 4. Kavataria United Church Women’s Fellowship 5. Mr Rurupa Mutoubolu – Kavataria Ward Councillor 6. Mr Daniel Donai – Carpenter for the refurbishment and renovation of the house 7. Ruth Boaz 8. Kiriwina VBA’s 9. The Wonderful People of Kiriwina
In the accompanying pictures, you will see Mrs Anna Taudiri, the President of the Kavataria Women’s Fellowship, alongside Mr Rurupa Mutoubolu, our Kavataria Ward Councillor. The women in red uniforms are members of the Kavataria Women’s Fellowship, which plays a vital role in our community.
Thank you to everyone for your support and dedication. Together, we can continue to uplift and care for our community.
We wish our dedicated Caroleen and the CFK VBAs a safe and rewarding journey to Kiriwina. After monitoring the situation and waiting to ensure safety following Cyclone Narrelle yesterday, we have received the all-clear for travel today.
We wish everyone a wonderful journey filled with purpose and positivity. Your commitment to making a difference is truly inspiring. Safe travels, and all the best!
We are pleased to share that Caroleen is currently in Alotau, meeting with medical staff from the Milne Bay Health Authority, eagerly awaiting her boat ride to Kiriwina. In a collaborative effort, we have arranged for senior representatives from CFK VBAs (Village Birth Attendants)– Dulcie, Bessie and Dorcas – to gather to warmly welcome her in Alotau and assist her on her journey.
Thank you for your continued support as we work to make such vital connections possible! Stay tuned for more updates.
We are thrilled to introduce Sr. Caroleen Baine as our new VBA Coordinator. After an extensive search in collaboration with our partners at the Milne Bay Health Authority, we’re proud to say that we’ve found the perfect candidate. A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Perista Mamadi and Dr. Frank Dale for their invaluable support throughout this journey.
Sr. Caroleen is a registered midwife and educator with extensive experience working with remote communities throughout Papua New Guinea. She is relocating from Port Moresby to Kiriwina, and we would like to extend our gratitude to the following individuals: Mr. Aiden Abraham, the District Administrator; Mr. Luvakai Kasiviya; and Mr. Ridley Mwaisiga, for their assistance in arranging a lovely home for her.
Our VBA team is currently on a plane to Alotau and is preparing to sail with Caroleen back to Kiriwina. We are confident that she will be warmly received and experience the renowned hospitality of Kiriwina. We extend our best wishes for a smooth transition and a meaningful time in Kiriwina for everyone involved.
A huge thank you to all the incredible supporters of Caring for Kiriwina who helped make this dream a reality!
In the photo: Toks Bwaina, the Country Manager, along with CFK Directors Jodi Lawton and Vanessa Palfreeman, and CFK VBA midwife coordinator, Snr Caroleen Baine, were captured in Port Moresby last Friday, March 13th.
We have some exciting developments coming up that we look forward to sharing with you once we have final confirmations. Stay tuned for more details!
In the meantime, we’re thrilled to announce that our donations are en route to Kiriwina! A heartfelt thank you to our wonderful postman, Andy, along with the fantastic chemist and knitting communities that support our mission.
A special mention goes out to the incredible women at Willandra Retirement Village—Martha, Joy, Chrissy, Bea, Helen, and Ann—who have lovingly created beautiful knitwear. We are also thankful to the talented ladies from St. Swithun’s Church in Pymble for their amazing contributions. A big shoutout to John and Sandy for their generous delivery service, too!
We’d like to extend our appreciation to our new friends at the Milton Hospital Auxiliary for their knitting efforts and generous donations, including old bras. Additionally, a heartfelt thanks to the new Priceline Chemist at Balgowlah for continuing the support we received from Pharmacy Select Balgowlah.
Thank you all for your kindness and support! Together, we’re making a meaningful impact on the Women and children of Kiriwina.
We are filled with hope and gratitude for the incredible community that supports our mission to uplift women and children on the remote island of Kiriwina in PNG. This year, let’s continue to inspire change, promote health and well-being, enhance education, and provide essential resources for a brighter future. Together, we have the power to empower the hearts and minds of families in Kiriwina.
Here are some highlights from our in-country managers’ recent reporting trip to Kiriwina during the Christmas of 2025 and New Year of 2026. CFK presented our Village Birth Attendants (VBAs) with bags of rice to acknowledge their invaluable contributions to their communities, along with headlights to support their ongoing efforts.
As we step into a new year filled with compassion, growth, and unity, let’s remember that every effort we make counts! Wishing everyone a joyful and prosperous New Year! 🎉❤️
Luba Circuit VBA’sKilivia 1 circuit VBA’sKuboma Circuit VBA’sKilivila 2 circuit VBA’sSimla and Kaileuna Circuits VBA’sFellows Circuit VBA’sThe VBAs visited late Bokawau’s family during the New Year as a sign of remembrance, repect and gratitude for all her work.The late Bokawau’s grave site
As the holiday season draws near, all of us at Caring for Kiriwina want to extend our heartfelt wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New Year as we look toward 2026!
This joyous time of year serves as a wonderful reminder of the incredible support we receive from our community, which is essential to our mission. We are deeply thankful for our Kiriwinan community, our dedicated partners, generous sponsors, committed volunteers, and kind donors. Your contributions are the backbone of our efforts to help those in need and play a vital role in our achievements.
Looking back on the past year, we recognise that our successes are thanks to your unwavering support. Your dedication motivates us and brings us closer to reaching our aspirations. Together, we are making remarkable progress and paving the way for a brighter future for everyone.
Thank you for being an indispensable part of our journey. We are eager to face the new opportunities and challenges that lie ahead, and we look forward to continuing this important work alongside each of you.
Wishing you a joyful holiday season filled with love and warmth!
