FOCUS brings together more than two lifetimes of work by renowned photographers Rocky Roe and Dinah Halstead, whose images capture the spirit, resilience, and beauty of Papua New Guinea over five transformative decades. Through their lenses, the story of a nation unfolds — from the volcanic eruption that blanketed Rabaul in ash, to the timeless rivers that sustain life, to the vibrant traditional dress that speaks to the unity of a thousand tribes.
 
The exhibition is presented in nine thematic collections, including Under the Sea, celebrating PNG’s place in the Coral Triangle, National Events that trace our journey as a democracy, and Industry, a reminder of the opportunities and challenges in harnessing our resources. Each image is both documentary and poetry — a testimony to the past, a reflection of the present, and a call to preserve our natural and cultural heritage for future generations.
 
On the eve of our 50th Independence Anniversary, FOCUS invites all Papua New Guineans to reconnect with their shared history and envision a future rooted in pride, diversity, and responsibility. This exhibition is both a celebration and a reminder: our stories, told through images, are the mirrors of our nation.

PHOTOGRAPHERS

ROCKY ROE

Rocky Roe’s connection to Papua New Guinea began just after Independence, when he left Australia to work with Bougainville Copper Ltd as a mechanical fitter. His true passion, however, was photography. In 1981 he joined Gordon Sioni Pacific Advertising, returning to Bougainville Copper, this time behind the lens, before going on to document mines, petroleum fields, and remote landscapes across the country.

Through his camera, Rocky captured the early years of PNG’s primary industries and revealed places few could reach: Mt Wilhelm, the Hindenburg Wall, vast limestone valleys, the hidden islands of Lake Kutubu, and the dramatic fjords of Tufi. His images stand as a visual record of exploration and transformation in PNG’s formative years.

DINAH HALSTEAD

“I want everyone to see and appreciate the amazing wonders of the sea—what it teaches us, and to inspire a new generation to care for the natural world.” – Dinah Halstead

Dinah Halstead, from Lauadi in Milne Bay, began her career as a teacher, working alongside the late Grand Chief Sir Michael Somare before Independence and later with the late Sir Pita Lus. She went on to gain international certification as a Diving Instructor, a step that opened the door to a lifelong journey beneath the waters of the Asia-Pacific.

Over the past four decades, Dinah has received numerous global accolades in dive tourism, photography, and marine conservation. Her achievements include induction into the prestigious Jacques Cousteau Hall of Fame, recognising her invaluable contributions to conservation, education, training, and recreational diving. She has also authored several publications, including The Coral Reefs of Papua New Guinea (1988).

APEC HAUS EXHIBITION BOOKING

Book your visit using the calendar below or WhatsApp 72725559

** Your booking must be between 4-6th November for APEC Haus viewings. **
Stay tuned for more locations and dates for future bookings.

LOCATIONS

CURRENT VENUE
APEC HAUS, PORT MORESBY

4th - 6th November 2025
OPEN 9am - 5pm

Focus: 50 Years of PNG Through the Lens will debut at APEC Haus this November.

UPCOMING VENUES
VISION CITY, PORT MORESBY

DATES TBC

Focus: 50 Years of PNG Through the Lens will continue its national tour, beginning at Vision City. More details will be announced soon.

REGISTER AS A HOST

The FOCUS Exhibition will be touring across Papua New Guinea, showcasing over 200 powerful images that celebrate our people, culture, and history.

If you’d like to get involved as an exhibition partner, please complete the form below and become part of the story, one image at a time.