Cairns Sister City Ambassador Sim Hayward reflects on decades of friendship between Lae and Cairns, strengthened by people, culture, and shared pride.

Lae, Morobe Province — For Cairns Sister City Ambassador Mrs Sim Hayward, the relationship between Lae and Cairns has always been about more than council agreements or trade missions. It is, at its heart, about people, culture, and friendships that have blossomed across the Coral Sea for nearly four decades.

Mrs Hayward first became involved with Cairns Sister Cities in 1986, helping to host the Sister Cities International Forum. Thirty years later, she was formally appointed Ambassador for the city’s seven sister cities, a role she continues to carry with pride. Importantly, her ambassadorship, like all of her involvement since 1986, has been entirely voluntary, reflecting her deep personal commitment to building and sustaining international friendships. Of all the connections, she says, Lae has always held a special place in her heart.

Her first visit to Lae was in the late 1990s for the launch of direct flights between the two cities, where the warmth of the traditional Morobean welcome left a lasting impression. She returned in 2017 and 2018 with trade-linked delegations, representing Cairns when council leaders could not attend and supporting local businesses in building ties with Lae’s civic leaders. Most recently, she joined Mayor Amy Eden’s delegation for Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence celebrations and the Morobe Show, at the invitation of PNG Deputy Prime Minister and Member for Lae Open, Hon. John Rosso. As part of that visit, Mr Rosso invited Mayor Eden and Ambassador Hayward to take part in high-level talks, which he personally led, reinforcing the importance Lae places on its enduring partnership with Cairns.

Earlier this year, Lae leaders visited Cairns to strengthen cooperation in trade, education, and cultural exchange. The establishment of the Australian Consulate in Lae in 2016 also gave new momentum to the relationship, with then Consul-General Paul Murphy a strong advocate. Today, Consul-General Brenton Kanowski continues that commitment, ensuring the sister city bond remains a living bridge between communities.

For Mrs Hayward, the most powerful memories are always linked to people. On this visit, an unexpected flight to the remote village of Yawan aboard a Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) flight revealed the resilience of communities maintaining culture and language while navigating a changing world.

Over the years she has also seen tangible outcomes: stronger business ties, new opportunities for artists and students, and greater cultural understanding between the two cities. Yet, she notes, the heart of the relationship is not found in trade or projects alone. It lies in the pride with which traditions are shared, and the generosity shown in every exchange.

Looking ahead, Ambassador Hayward hopes Cairns and Lae will continue to grow as close sister cities, strengthening their bond through respect and understanding. She believes the relationship offers much to learn on both sides, and that by sharing knowledge and supporting young people, the two communities can build stronger, more sustainable futures together.

Mayor Amy Eden praised the ambassadorship, noting, “Sim’s dedication has been vital in keeping the Cairns–Lae connection alive. Her passion and commitment remind us that sister city relationships thrive because of people who care deeply about building those bridges.”