The Friends of the Madang Provincial Hospital has successfully completed the 2026 Mt Wilhelm Charity Climb, raising awareness and support for the Blood Bank Unit at Madang Provincial Hospital through an inspiring community-driven fundraising initiative.

The organisation has expressed its sincere appreciation to sponsors, partners, donors, volunteers, families, and supporters whose generous contributions made the expedition possible.

The charity climb began on June 29, when a team of 18 climbers departed Madang on a 14-hour journey through the scenic mountains of the Eastern Highlands before arriving in Gembogl District, Simbu Province, home to Papua New Guinea’s highest peak.

Upon arrival, the team was warmly welcomed at Betty’s Lodge, their accommodation and trekking partner, where they settled into the newly completed accommodation wing, enjoyed a hot meal, conducted final equipment checks, and prepared mentally for the challenging climb after months of training.

The following morning, the climbers departed Betty’s Lodge, located 2,800 metres above sea level, and began the demanding trek to Mt Wilhelm Base Camp, situated beside the famous twin glacial lakes at an elevation of between 3,550 and 3,600 metres.

Climbers were grouped according to their fitness levels as they trekked through dense montane rainforest, alpine grasslands, and rugged mountain terrain. Throughout the day, the team gained approximately 750 metres in elevation, demonstrating determination, teamwork, and the benefits of months of physical preparation.Among the team is 15-year-old Lena Eugenio, the youngest participant, while four climbers have travelled from Australia to join the cause.

The mountain also reminded the team of its unpredictable conditions when a brief afternoon hailstorm covered sections of the ground around Base Camp with patches of ice.

After reaching Base Camp, the climbers were rewarded with breathtaking views overlooking the twin glacial lakes and surrounding mountain ranges before settling into camp to hydrate, check their equipment, and prepare for the summit attempt.

As temperatures dropped below freezing overnight, several climbers experienced symptoms of altitude sickness, preventing some members from joining the final ascent to Papua New Guinea’s highest point.

Despite the harsh conditions, the team successfully completed its mission of raising awareness and support for the Blood Bank Unit at Madang Provincial Hospital.

The Friends of the Madang Provincial Hospital said the climb represented far more than reaching the country’s highest mountain.

“This expedition demonstrated the power of community partnership in supporting lifesaving healthcare services for the people of Madang Province,” the organisation said.

Support for the charity climb came in many forms, including financial sponsorship, accommodation, logistics, communication, climbing equipment, merchandise, medical support, and continuous encouragement throughout the journey.

Major sponsors included Madang Resort Hotel, Melanesian Tourist Services, Sir Brian Bell Foundation, Dumlos Consulting, Surpass Betting Shop, Virtues Early Learning & Education, Sigma Construction Limited, RSEA Limited–Madang, and Brook Cherith.

Betty’s Lodge provided accommodation and trekking support, while Sigma Construction Limited and CVITS assisted with logistics and communication. Pacific Industries Ltd partnered with the team by supplying merchandise.

The Friends of the Madang Provincial Hospital also acknowledged the continued support of the Madang Provincial Health Authority and Madang Provincial Hospital, whose commitment helped make the fundraising initiative a success.

Special recognition was also given to the mountain guides, porters, and Base Camp staff for their outstanding hospitality and dedication in ensuring the climbers completed the expedition safely.

The organisation thanked every sponsor, business, family, friend, volunteer, and individual donor who contributed to the initiative.

“Together, we climbed. Together, we gave hope. Together, we strengthened our community,” the organisation said.

The Friends of the Madang Provincial Hospital Chairperson, Pamela Eugenio, said the success of the 2026 Mt Wilhelm Charity Climb reflected the generosity and unity of the community.

“We are deeply grateful to everyone who believed in this cause. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, helped us achieve our goal of supporting the Blood Bank Unit. This achievement belongs to every individual, business, and organisation that stood beside us throughout this journey,” Ms Eugenio said.

She said the expedition demonstrated what could be achieved when communities unite behind a common purpose and expressed hope that the initiative would inspire continued support for healthcare services in Madang Province.

The successful 2026 Mt Wilhelm Charity Climb stands as a testament to the power of community partnership in strengthening healthcare services and bringing hope to patients who rely on lifesaving blood services at Madang Provincial Hospital.