More than 12,000 people gathered at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium in Port Moresby on 28 June to experience Meganesia, a spectacular live concert hosted by the Australian High Commission as part of Papua New Guinea’s 50th anniversary of independence celebrations. The event honoured the deep and enduring cultural connections between the First Nations peoples of Papua New Guinea and Australia.

Taking its name from the ancient supercontinent that once joined Australia, Papua New Guinea and neighbouring islands, Meganesia was a powerful tribute to the shared history and kinship that existed long before national borders. Through music, dance and storytelling, the event brought together artists from both countries to showcase the strength, resilience and creativity of their First Peoples.

The performance was a major highlight of the Australian High Commission’s Yumi Stap Wantaim campaign; an initiative marking PNG’s golden jubilee by celebrating the close partnership between Australia and Papua New Guinea. Rooted in the spirit of solidarity, Yumi Stap Wantaim focuses on the connections between people, particularly the cultural and generational links that continue to shape the bilateral relationship.

Meganesia featured a dynamic lineup of First Nations and Papua New Guinean performers who blended traditional and contemporary sounds. The concert highlighted cross-cultural collaboration, with performances that paired instruments like the didgeridoo and garamut drum, and voices singing in Indigenous languages from across the region.

The event was not only a celebration of the past but also an investment in the future. Many of the performers were young cultural leaders using music as a platform for identity, education and community strength. Their presence on stage reflected the broader goals of Yumi Stap Wantaim — to support the next generation of Papua New Guineans through shared opportunity and cultural pride.

Supported by Qantas and the National Capital District Commission, Meganesia was a vibrant demonstration of regional unity. As Papua New Guinea celebrates 50 years of independence, the concert reaffirmed the vital role of First Nations peoples in telling the story of this shared region — past, present and future; side by side and step by step.