The Conflict Islands www.conflictislands.com 1 The Owners invite
Transcription
The Conflict Islands www.conflictislands.com 1 The Owners invite
The Owners invite expressions of interest by parties to invest in the development of the Conflict Islands. Conflict Islands Enquiries: Written expressions of interest to invest may be forwarded to the address below. Conflict Islands www.conflictislands.com PO Box 5419, Cairns QLD, Australia 4870 Phone: +61 7 4080 7315 [email protected] The Conflict Islands www.conflictislands.com 1 CONTENTS Introduction Page 3 The Vision Page 4 Complete Atoll Page 4 Investment Opportunity Page 5 Freehold Tenure Page 8 The Investment Potential of Private Islands Page 8 Development Team Page 9 Tropical Climate Page 10 Environment Page 10 Accessibility Page 11 Attractions Page 12 APPENDIXES Appendix A: Names and Size of the Islands Page 13 Appendix B: Map Page 14 Appendix C: Sources Page 15 Appendix D: Quick Links Page 15 IMAGES To see hundreds of images, maps and development plans of the Conflict Islands Click Here The Conflict Islands www.conflictislands.com 2 INTRODUCTION Name: Region: Location: Development: Title: Type: Prices: Size: The Conflict Islands Papua New Guinea, South Pacific The Louisiade Archipelago in the Coral Sea Currently there is a boutique resort and 650m runway on Panasesa Island Freehold Torrens Title Private Atoll comprising 21 Islands Price on Application Total area of 925 acres (375 hectares), 1.5 times the size of Monaco The Conflict Islands presents a unique opportunity to gain early entry into the project, and own part of a complete freehold atoll; one of the last untouched private atolls on earth, which has been submitted for consideration as a World Heritage Site. The Conflict Islands comprises 21 uninhabited, undeveloped, pristine, freehold islands covering a total landmass of 375 Hectares (925 acres). The Conflicts Islands Group were named after H.M. Survey Ship “The Conflict” which first charted the islands in 1886. The Conflict Islands are located at 10° 46′ 0″ S, 151° 47′ 0″ E, among The Louisiade Archipelago, out in The Coral Sea, 152kms (94 miles) due East of the town of Alotau in Papua New Guinea. Being 11 degrees from the equator. 10 degrees north and south of the equator are rarely affected by cyclones/hurricanes. The area is recognised for its exceptional beauty and marine biodiversity, one of the last remaining unspoilt and untouched regions in the world. The Conflict Islands Atoll forms a pear-shaped reef formation of 10 km by 22 km, enclosing a massive central lagoon within the fringing reef. There are three main passages that connect the lagoon with the surrounding waters of the northeastern Coral Sea — the largest of these, known as Ship Pass, is found on the south-western side. Around the reef perimeter are found 19 islands varying in size from less than 1 hectare to the largest at 97 hectares (240 acres); and two islets found within the lagoon centre. The third largest island, Panasesa 635 hectares (157 acres) currently accommodates a resort comprising 6 bungalows with ensuites, main club house, diving and fishing centre and a 650 metre runway. The owner wishes to find a party, or parties interested in the ownership and development of individual islands or plots for private luxury residences on one of only a handful of freehold atolls available in the world. The Conflict Islands www.conflictislands.com 3 THE VISION The Conflict Islands is owned under freehold title by international entrepreneur Ian Gowrie-Smith. The owner’s vision is to establish an exclusive community of like-minded individuals who want to preserve and enjoy the islands for future generations, as part of their legacy. The goal is to build a luxury Private Residences development, where a group of like-minded individuals who share a passion for nature and ecology can come together to create their own unique island sanctuary; while at the same time contributing to the protection and understanding of the environment of this unique private atoll. The exclusive private residence community will be similar to that created at Mustique Island, where private luxury villas are owned by the likes of Mick Jagger, David Bowie, US designer Tommy Hilfiger and a host of others. Potential investors or purchasers are invited to participate in the conservation and protection of these magnificent islands. The plan is to create an exclusive, sustainable, eco-travel destination and Marine Protected Area. By supporting and investing in the local community and creating a sustainable business, the owner’s aim is to generate a source of income that will allow the local communities to support themselves without resorting to unsustainable practices. We hope to attract exclusive buyers because of our superior commitment to preserving the reef and surrounding marine life, the luxuriousness of the development, the ability of owners to invest in the underlying land and properties, and the ease and security of ownership. We will insist on the highest levels of quality in our building materials, design, marketing strategies, and construction of the buildings, in order to deliver on our promises to our equity-holders, both short-term and long-term. COMPLETE ATOLL – A RARE INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY In 1842 Darwin explained the creation of coral atolls in the southern Pacific Ocean based upon observations made during a five-year voyage aboard the Beagle from 1831 to 1836. Accepted as basically correct, his explanation involved considering that several tropical island types—from high volcanic Island, through barrier reef island, to atoll represented a sequence of gradual subsidence of what started as an oceanic volcano. He reasoned that a fringing coral reef surrounding a volcanic island in the tropical sea will grow upwards as the island sinks, becoming an "almost atoll", as typified by an The Conflict Islands www.conflictislands.com 4 island such as Bora Bora. The fringing reef becomes a barrier reef for the reason that the outer part of the reef maintains itself near sea level through biotic growth, while the inner part of the reef falls behind, becoming a lagoon because conditions are less favourable for the coral. In time, subsidence carries the old volcano below the ocean surface and the barrier reef remains. At this point, the island has become an atoll. Of all of the privately held coral atolls in the world for sale in the last 10 years, only The Conflict Islands and Palmyra Atoll have access to the central lagoon; every other privately held atoll is extremely remote, and has no boat access to the lagoon. Of all these atolls the Conflict Islands Group has the largest lagoon, 10km (5 miles) wide and 22km (12 miles) long,; large enough for cruise ships to enter and anchor in the lagoon. The closest comparison to The Conflict Islands Group is Palmyra Atoll (54 islets - 680 acres), one of the most isolated places in the world. They are part of the US State of Hawaii, located 1,000 miles/1609km south of the islands of Hawaii. The Nature Conservancy purchased the atoll in 2000 for $37 million. Marlon Brando’s Atoll of Te’tiaroa (13 islands - 1,257 acres) was sold in 2005, and is now being developed as The Brando Resort. Te’tiaroa has no boat access to the lagoon, and supplies have to be hauled over the reef to the island. It has a 600+ metre runway capable of landing smaller prop planes. The Conflict Islands have the capacity to build a runway of up to 3,000 metres. Nukutepipi Atoll (2 islands - 247 acres) is located in French Polynesia. The atoll has no boat access to the internal lagoon, with the only access by charter aircraft 756km/470 miles from the main island of Tahiti, landing on a 900m runway. It is currently being developed as a luxury resort with 40 person capacity. INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITY Island lots from 500 Square Metres (5,382 Square Feet) up to 5 hectare lots starting at $500,000 USD Entire Private Islands from 4 hectares (10 acres) up to 97 hectares (240 acres) starting from $4 million USD The Conflict Islands presents a unique opportunity to own part of a complete freehold atoll; one of the last untouched private atolls on earth, which has been submitted for consideration as a World Heritage Site. This is a world first, an entire tropical atoll developed as an exclusive private island community similar to Mustique Island. Unlike other island developments, there is a mix of Island lots for private luxury residences, and individual “Private” islands for sale. These exclusive properties will cater to the most discerning owner in search of the ultimate private vacation destination. Currently there is a 6 room boutique resort located on Panasesa Island, serviced by a 2,132 foot runway, with charter flights available from an international airport. The largest island has exclusive lots with the potential, in future, for a 6,000 feet runway to land private jets. There will be a variety of lots released for development starting with a first release adjacent to the existing resort and runway on Panasesa Island. Private Islands for sale starting from 4 hectares (10 acres) starting at $4 million USD up to the largest island at 97 hectares (240 acres), which is suitable for construction of a 3,000 metre runway. The Conflict Islands Group offers excellent investment opportunities. This rare and relatively undiscovered destination will appeal to intrepid, discerning travellers who value privacy and exclusivity with a keen interest and passion for conservation. Invest in a unique sustainable eco-tourism destination Own a complete private freehold atoll. Less than 5 percent of private islands in the world have freehold title The islands have been put forward for consideration as a World Heritage marine site The Conflict Islands are located in secure waters away from mainland Papua New Guinea The Melanasian inhabitants of the area have a different culture to the mainland , and are very friendly Papua New Guinea is the Last Frontier of South East Asia, a destination for those looking for adventure Milne Bay province, which includes the Conflict Islands, has seen a sustained increase in international tourism for diving, fishing and cruise ships. The government has a positive attitude to foreign investment PAPUA NEW GUINEA COUNTRY PROFILE Papua New Guinea is located in Oceania, a group of islands including the eastern half of the island of New Guinea between the Coral Sea and the South Pacific Ocean, east of Indonesia. Area: 470,000 square kilometres Population: 6,431,902 (July 2013 est.) Geographic Coordinates: Lat: -10° 46' 15.4014" Long: 151° 41' 22.1418" The Conflict Islands www.conflictislands.com 5 Papua New Guinea is one of the world's least explored countries, both culturally and geographically, and many undiscovered species of plants and animals are thought to exist in the interior and the country’s surrounding islands. Strong growth in Papua New Guinea mining and resource sector has led it to become the sixth fastest-growing economy in the world as of 2011. The Papua New Guinea Constitution expresses the wish for "traditional villages and communities to remain as viable units of Papua New Guinean society" and for active steps to be taken in their preservation. Papua New Guinea is ‘’The Last Frontier” of tourism in South-East Asia. The fact that great areas of Papua New Guinea are virtually untouched constitutes a lure for the growing numbers of international tourists looking for a combination of the unusual, “off the beaten track” places, opportunities for adventure, and access to authentic local cultures. The government has targeted tourism as a priority area for the economic development of the country and for the creation of employment opportunities at rural and urban levels. INVESTOR INCENTIVES According to The PNG Chamber of Commerce and Industry tax incentives for investors includes: 10 year exemption from income tax for new businesses in designated rural development areas for construction, hotels and restaurants. 2.5 year tax exemption for pioneer industries (must bring beneficial returns to country/new form of industry). There is currently a proposal being prepared for parliament to create a Special Economic Zone for the islands of the Milne Bay Province which will include various tax incentives. EASE OF DOING BUSINESS Papua New Guinea is run by the same set of legal and government systems set forth by both Australia and UK. It has inherited the legal and democratic institutions of both countries. Unusual among developing countries, the judicial branch of government in Papua New Guinea has remained remarkably independent, and successive executive governments have continued to respect its authority. MILNE BAY “The scenery in the islands, for instance along the Calvados Chain and throughout the Louisiade Archipelago generally, is of the type made familiar to everyone by descriptions of the South Seas. The blue of the sky and the still deeper blue of the sea, varying as the depth decreases to pale green, the transparency of the water, and the brilliant colours of the coral and the seaweed, the dazzling white beaches, the groves of coconuts, and that most graceful of palms, the betel - all this is beautiful.” Papua or British New Guinea, J. H. P. Murray, 1912 Situated at the southern-most tip of Papua New Guinea, Milne Bay’s breathtaking seascape dotted with emerald islands makes it a natural magnet for marine sports lovers such as divers, fishermen and sailors. Home to diving sites ranked by National Geographic as top three in the world, virgin rainforest, and over 600 tropical islands, Milne Bay Province is a region of unfathomable diversity and beauty. The Province combines the mountainous south-eastern-most tip of mainland New Guinea, and a sea area of approximately 110,000 km2 that contains includes examples of all six types of Pacific islands - continental, volcanic, atoll, raised reef, coral cay and makatea. Three quarters of the 195,000 population live on the islands. Traditional sailing canoes, called “Sailaus” still play a significant role in Milne Bay culture; they are the only local transport, they are the truck, car and school bus for these island communities. This is one of the last places in the world where traditional voyaging canoes still travel across hundreds of kilometres of open ocean with no compasses or charts. They use ancient knowledge of the sea, weather and stars to reach their destinations. Great trading voyages are still undertaken for betel nut, sago and clay pots, and the currency is bagi shell jewellery and greenstone axes traded from faraway Suau. The Alotau Canoe & Kundu Festival is an annual event showcasing the traditional seafaring culture of the area. The Festival features activities such as canoe racing, traditional food exchanges including the popular Yam exchange, traditional sing-sing, dancing performances and more. The Louisiade Yacht Rally (International rally with yachts from Cairns coming to Louisiade group of islands in Milne Bay which coincides with the "Showcase Misima Culture Show" (usually 1st week of October). Alotau is the gateway to Milne Bay and has an enviable reputation as a safe & pleasant town. Its airport Gurney, is served by both Air Nuigini and Airlines PNG (APNG) from Port Moresby. The Conflict Islands www.conflictislands.com 6 ENVRONMENTAL DEVELOPMENT The ecological objectives for the development of the Conflict Islands are … To maintain the natural diversity of the of the atoll’s ecosystem. To maintain the natural beauty of the atoll setting. To avoid the depletion or impairment of any resource of the island on which man, or other organisms inhabiting the atoll depend. We hope to establish a comprehensive environmentally sustainable development that will have a positive long-term impact on the environment, local communities and resort guests. This affects the design, planning, construction and operation of the resort. Development will be limited to the largest islands, with the greater majority of the islands being left untouched and protected as nature reserves. The development of the islands will be undertaken using modern sustainable technologies to ensure minimal ecological footprint and be as environmentally responsible as possible. After a decade of work, the government of Milne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea,passed a law that recognizes community-based marine protected areas and makes it possible to prosecute poachers. We will instruct all visitors the islands to be careful where they tread, and will institute ‘safe zones’ where people can comfortably wade around in the waters without destroying the reefs. We will encourage coral reef scientists from around the world to visit the atoll, and establish a monitoring program to determine the presence of fish and coral life and studying how we impact the reef over time. ALTERNATIVE ENERGY The natural resources available at The Conflict Islands present the perfect opportunity to move towards a 100% complete renewable energy system. Apart from the immediate local environmental benefits, powering the islands from renewable sources will also allow us to meet our social goals. Most importantly, The Conflict Islands could serve as a case study to show the Papua New Guinea government and local communities that these technologies are cost effective, selfsustainable, and can be implemented thoughtfully to preserve the beautiful landscape of the Louisiade Islands. We will install low-carbon energy microgrid, consisting of Japanese-made photovoltaic solar cells, wind turbines, Coconut Bio-Diesel Generators, linked to a Sundaya energy storage and distribution system or hydrogen fuel cells for energy storage which negates the problems of lithium batteries. A Bio-Diesel generator, fuelled by Coconut Bio-Diesel, will be potentially be used as an ecologically and cost-effective fuel supply for power generation to the project. Coconut bio-diesel is an incredible alternative to fossil fuels, and provides the following benefits … Provides sustainable, ecological income to surrounding communities Reduces reliance on imported fossil fuel Produces small scale local electrification Increases local employment Reduces carbon emissions Increases engine mileage An operational Coco Bio-Diesel Plant has been operating in PNG 2 years. Plant cost if $40,000 USD http://www.sprep.org/attachments/PIGGAREP/Biodiesel_Production_in_Karkar_Island.pdf Solar Power, produced from photovoltaic (PV) solar panels, and wind power generators will also provide a percentage of the project’s needs, and all of its hot water. Direct Current (DC) or 12 Volt lighting, cooling, and electrical appliances will provide greater energy efficiency. Sea Water Air-Conditioning (SWAC) harnesses the cold of the ocean depths to provide low-energy and highly efficient cooling for buildings. Also known as Ocean Water Cooling. The InterContinental Resort and Thalasso-Spa on the island of Bora Bora uses a seawater air conditioning (SWAC) system to air-condition its buildings. The system accomplishes this by passing cold seawater through a heat exchanger where it cools freshwater in a closed loop system. This cool freshwater is then pumped to buildings and is used for cooling directly (no conversion to electricity takes place). Waste water recycling and rainwater catchment systems will produce no runoff, and provide drinking water without affecting the natural water tables on the islands. The Conflict Islands www.conflictislands.com 7 FREEHOLD TENURE Freehold land is extremely rare in the South Pacific, and only some 3% of the land of Papua New Guinea is in private hands; privately held under 99-year state lease, or it is held by the State. There is virtually no freehold title. Freehold land is registered with the Registrar of Titles, under the Torrens titling system, exactly the same as Australia. Whilst freehold land cannot be owned by non-PNG citizens, non-nationals can own freehold property through company structures. Investors will acquire their interest in the freehold title via share interest in the company that owns the freehold. Equitable interest in the freehold in either part or whole of an island will be obtained from either purchase of shares specific to one or all of the islands. There is no requirement for government approval for transfers of these share interests. Archdale Pty Ltd, a Papua New Guinea company, holds all the shares in the companies that own the islands under freehold title. The 21 islands of the Conflict Group are divided into nine Papua New Guinea companies owning approximately 2 islands each. INVESTMENT POTENTIAL OF PRIVATE ISLANDS "The lagoon was about five miles across at its broadest point and infused with more shades of blue than I thought possible: turquoise, deep blue, light blue, indigo blue, cobalt blue, royal blue, robbin's egg blue, aquamarine. As I admired this astonishing palette, several flawless, white, flat-bottomed clouds rolled past me at two thousand feet as if they were on parade and I was on a reviewing stand. A shadow fell across the island briefly, then moved on, and the sun shone again like satin on the riotous colors of the lagoon. It was magical." Marlon Brando, who bought Te’tiaroa Atoll for $260,000 in 1967 In the very first issue of Fortune Magazine in 1926 Editor Dwight Macdonald wrote… "As a symbol of great possession, the privately owned island may yet supplant even the steamship." 80 years later steamships weren’t around, but the concept remains. There is nothing more exclusive and sought after in the world than having your own private island, it becomes effectively you own little kingdom. From Riccardo Montalban's Fantasy Island to Dr. No's Crab Key, private islands are exactly that private. Roberto Rossellini and Ingrid Bergman loved the Italian island of Stromboli. Princess Margaret found peace and quiet on the island of Mustique. Richard Branson, Marlon Brando and Malcolm Forbes (whose Laucala Island in Fiji was sold for $10 million) all created their own Private Island Kingdoms for peace, privacy and tranquility. A private island is one of the best investments money can buy. Buying the right island in the right time and place can be one of the most profitable investments you could ever make. You have not only an affordable retreat for family and friends, but a strategic investment that increases exponentially in value over time. Colin Tennant, Lord Glenconner bought the 1,400 acre island of Mustique in the Caribbean for £45,000 in 1958, and it is now the playground for the rich and famous. The Conflict Islands in comparison have more than 35 kilometres of sugarwhite beaches. Richard Branson bought Necker Island in 1978 for US$180,000 and spent the next 20 years developing it into his dream home. Today, Necker Island Sir Richard Branson’s Private Island is one of the most luxurious in the world and has been valued at around $106 million. Just imagine that you had the chance to hop in a time machine to meet Colin Tennant on Mustique Island in 1960, allowing you to buy a piece of tropical beachfront for a pittance? Well the Conflict Islands offer exactly that possibility. Become one of the early entrants to invest in the islands and you can buy not just a beach, but your very own mini Mustique. A tropical island kingdom, surrounded by thousands of metres of sugar white sand, shaded by palms trees dripping into the warm turquoise waters of the lagoon. DEVELOPMENT TEAM The Conflict Islands development team is comprised of the leading experts in the field of private island development from around the world, and we are in the process of finding the best experts in the fields to help us develop the islands in an ecologically sustainable fashion. The Conflict Islands www.conflictislands.com 8 Architects Pacific http://architectspacific.com/ Architects Pacific was founded over 40 years ago in Suva, Fiji by Stuart and Gillian Huggett. They are one of the first and largest architectural studios in Fiji and most of the South Pacific and have worked with some of the most prestigious private island developments around the world. In 2002 “Red Bull” Billionaire Dietrich Mateschitz purchased the 3,000 acre Laucala Island for $10 million. Mateschitz redeveloped the island at a cost of $30 million. The original colonial plantation house was restored and converted to be the signature restaurant at the heart of the resort. 28 individual residences, tailored to carefully selected sites at the beach, cliff top and tropical jungle each have a private pool and extensive ocean views. Thatch, stone and local timber are the primary building materials, used selectively to make a seamless transition between built areas and the natural beauty of the island. Traditional Fijian construction methodology has been applied to new forms to create a unique architectural style, underpinned with fastidious attention to detail. Laucala Island, Fiji Cheyenne Morrison Conflict Islands – Sales Director “You know you've made it when you own an island. It's the ultimate status symbol. Privacy guaranteed. A paparazzi free zone... it's Port Douglas-based broker Cheyenne Morrison, of Coldwell Banker Morrison's Private Islands who claims the largest portfolio: more than 170 islands valued at $US550 million. Last year Fortune voted the go-getting Morrison one of the world's top three private island brokers.” Private Lives by Christine McCabe, The Weekend Australian Cheyenne Morrison; a 50 year old Australian, is our International Private Island Specialist. He was repeatedly voted one of the top 3 private island brokers in the world by virtually every major publication around the world including Fortune, Forbes, The New York Times, and Kiplinger’s, and was featured on television repeatedly on CNN, CNBC and the BBC. Prior to ceasing his business Coldwell Banker Private Islands in late 2009 he had listings for over 250 islands, the largest catalogue of private islands of any broker world-wide, with a total value of over $1.5 Billion USD. Dick Watling Ph.D. Environment Consultants Fiji. www.environmentfiji.com Dr. Dick Watling is Principal and Founder of Environmental Consultants Fiji Ltd., Fiji's sole specialist environmental consultancy practice. In this capacity his 30 years of consultancy experience encompasses a very broad range of environmental and conservation planning and management in Pacific Island Countries and South East Asia. He has worked for many of the significant multilateral agencies including the Asian Development Bank, the World Bank, FAO, UNEP, SPREP, SPC, UNOPS, UNDP, IUCN and the European Union. In April 2007, Dick Watling undertook a week long Conservation Values study of Mago Island, Fiji for its new owner, Mel Gibson. Stephen Welsh, General Manager & Director New Guinea Islands (NGI) Renewable Resources www.ngirr.com http://www.nqpacificbiodiesel.com/content5908.html?pageid=1223248293 http://www.nqpacificbiodiesel.com/content0094.html?pageid=1220936868 Example an operational Coco Bio-Diesel Plant that has been operating in PNG 2 years http://www.sprep.org/attachments/PIGGAREP/Biodiesel_Production_in_Karkar_Island.pdf NGI has been engaged to advise on an initial Coconut Bio-Diesel plant on Panasesa Island to which could fulfil the energy requirements of the existing resort. TROPICAL CLIMATE Daytime Temperature Sea Temperature 22 - 31°C (72 - 88º F) 26 - 29°C (79 - 84º F) The Conflict Islands are located 11 degrees from the equator, an area generally accepted to be rarely affected by cyclones. The best weather is actually during the wet season between November and April when seas are calm, making it easier to travel around the islands, and explore the reefs. The dry season is from April to November when strong southeasterly winds blow most days. Water temperatures are high year round, and warm water suits are usually sufficient for diving comfort. The diving season does not vary as dramatically during the year like other locations, year round visibility and marine life seems to stay fairly consistent. The Conflict Islands www.conflictislands.com 9 ENVIRONMENT TERRESTRIAL ENVIRONMENT A large portion of the atoll lies under a canopy of non-native coconut palm. The Conflict Islands were leased to Sir Henry Wickham in 1895 who immediately started planting coconuts. After World War II more intensive coconut planting was completed, with the accompanying removal of virtually all existing tropical vegetation. When the atoll was purchased by Lu and Mary Ann Nevels in 1977 the majority of the islands had been converted to coconut plantations. Aerial images from that date show complete destruction of all other vegetation and coconuts planted in rows. When copra production ceased after 1978 the copra plantation was quickly overtaken by She Oak trees (Casuarina oligodon). Now only very small remnants of the original habitat remain. The casuarinas can gradually be reduced, and a mix of native vegetation replanted. MARINE ENVIRONMENT The Conflict Islands have the highest biodiversity recorded within the Coral Triangle. Spanning the marine waters of Indonesia, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, the Philippines, Solomon Islands, and Timor-Leste, the Coral Triangle is the global epicentre of marine biodiversity. This magnificent area, often called the “Amazon of the Seas,” contains nearly 30 percent of the world’s coral reefs and 75 percent of all known coral species, and is home to over 500 species of reefbuilding corals and 3,000 species of fish and threatened marine species such as sea turtles. 1,039 species of fish and 637 species of molluscs were recorded at The Conflict Islands (Werner, and Allen, 1998) along with 362 species of hard coral (Veron 1997) with a live coral cover of up to 83%. The average coral coverage over 40% is common. In comparison, the average reef-wide cover on the Great Barrier Reef was estimated at 23% in 2000. The Conflict Islands were found to have the greatest concentration of fish species, with an average of 220 species recorded per dive. Irai Island, has been found to have the second best coral in the world with the largest number of species noted in a single dive. Because of their world-class coral reefs The Conflict Islands have been proposed by Papua New Guinea as a possible World Heritage Site … “In Conflict and Lunn Islands, where the Rapid Biodiversity Assessment was conducted during 1997, biological the reefs have extensive areas of coral coverage, very high species diversity with an average of 220 species of fish per site compared to the Great Barrier Reef and other species new to science. All of these reefs are in pristine environmental condition with no effect of destructive fishing practices such as dynamite fishing, cyanide as well as coral bleaching within the coral triangle. The Conflict Group together with Bramble Haven, Lunn Island and Jormard Island are favourable Green, loggerhead and Hawksbill Turtles nesting and breeding sites, habitats for migratory marine and shore birds nesting sites, as well as for all giant clam species. The Conflict Group of Islands is currently targeted under the Community Based Coastal and Marine Conservation Programme for the province as a Marine Protected Area (MPAs).” Milne Bay Seascape (Pacific Jewels of Marine Biodiversity) http://whc.unesco.org/en/tentativelists/5063/ ACCESSIBILITY The Conflict Islands www.conflictislands.com 10 Getting to the Conflict Islands (Flight/Boat) Port Moresby-Panasesa Island: 2 hours (private charter only) Sydney-Port Moresby: 4 hours (2 direct flights per week) Port Moresby-Alotau: 1 hour flight (2 flights per day) Alotau-Panasesa: 35 min (private charter only) Alotau-Panasesa: 2.5 hours (by boat) Currently the islands can be reached by charter flights from Port Moresby landing direct on Panasesa Island. It is anticipated that in due course, once development starts, and the projected 1,800+ metre (5,905 foot) runway is completed on Irai Island, that owners and their guests will be able to fly directly to the islands in private jets, and clear PNG immigration directly on Irai Island. Until recently, the Conflict Islands had their own Full time Customs and Immigration personnel located on the islands to service the boats that pass through the Jomard Pass. At 932km/550nm from Cairns a flight time of slightly over 1.5 hours could be expected in executive private jets. Irai has the potential to build a 3,000 metre runway. No other private island development project will offer such prestigious and convenient access from anywhere in the world, making The Conflict Islands a highly sought after investment opportunity. Jacksons International Airport at Port Moresby can handle all types of aircraft, with a runway approaching 3,000 metres. International services are operated by the national carrier Air Niugini’s Boeing 767, in some cases in conjunction with foreign carriers: From Australia (3 points): with Qantas – 6 a week (Brisbane, 2 of which commence from Sydney), 9 a week Cairns. From Asian countries: Singapore with Singapore Airlines – 2 a week; Manila (Philippines) – 1 a week; Tokyo (Japan) – 1 a week. From other Pacific States: Honiara (Solomon Islands) – 2 a week. International flights on Air Niugini, Airlines PNG, Virgin Australia to Port Moresby or Alotau from: Brisbane, Cairns, Cebu, Denpasar/Bali, Hong Kong, Honiara (Solomon Islands), Manila, Nadi (Fiji), Singapore, Sydney and Tokyo-Narita. “Proposals are continuing to open Alotau (Gurney) airport as an international airport, which would increase the accessibility of the province to overseas visitors.” Work has already been undertaken to fence Gurney Airport in preparation for its creation as an international airport. The Conflict Islands www.conflictislands.com 11 Source: Skewes, T. Lyne, V. Butler, J., Mitchell, D., Poloczanska, E., Williams, K., Brewer, D., McLeod, I., Rochester, W., Sun, C., and Long, B. 2011. Melanesian coastal and marine ecosystem assets: assessment framework and Milne Bay case study. CSIRO Final Report to the CSIRO AusAID Alliance. ATTRACTIONS FISHING To watch Nomad Sportfishing Fishing videos click these links Video 1 - Video 2 - Video 3 The Conflict Islands offer one of the most unique and diverse fishing experiences in the world. The sheer remoteness of this Coral Sea location, coupled with the aspects and structure of a rare volcanic atoll, combine to play host to a fishing experience like no other. The existing Panasesa resort caters for multiple angling experiences. One day of fishing can offer the chance to spend a morning angling large Marlin, Giant Trevally, Maori Wrasse, Dog Tooth Tuna and more. The afternoon can be spent wading through the amazing flats finding bone fish, hump head parrot and plenty more. This unique fishing diversity is unlike anything else in the world. The most astounding feature is the ability to angle such large game fish in view of the resort. 2km drop offs surrounding the islands mean you don’t need to venture far from the comfort of you bungalow to hook a marlin/yellow fin tuna/sailfish and plenty more. We have a catch and release policy to help preserve the thriving ecosystem the atoll offers. The islands lie in a body of water which has only just been surveyed. Man barely exists, and fish have never seen a lure. Fishing Styles Stick bait and popper fishing for GT and Dog Tuna Game Fishing- Marlin, Yellow Fin Tuna and Sailfish Fly-fishing- Bone fish, hump head parrot fish. Jigging Fish Species Marlin Sailfish Giant Trevally Dog Tooth Tuna Yellow Fin Tuna Bone Fish Hump Head Parrot Fish DIVING & SNORKELLING “The house reef at Panasesa Island is better than 90% of the Great Barrier Reef. In fact to see a comparable coral reef in Australia you would have to go to very remote reefs.” Steve Parish, Wildlife Photographer Sandwiched between the Coral Sea and the Solomon Sea, the Conflict Islands has a huge variety of diving with over 50 great dive sites. The tidal movements of these two great seas flush clear, deep, ocean water in and out of the plankton rich lagoon, resulting in optimal conditions for marine growth. Millions of fish feed off the rich currents that hit against the walls of reefs that surround the island group. From classic walls of coral (some of which are visited by Mantas), patch reefs, deeper oceanic reefs, and pass dives with surging waters filled with hungry feeding fish and calm bays hiding tiny creatures, the diving is truly world-class. A number of wrecks are to be found in the nearby area including a Lockheed P-38H Lighting fighter in 27 metres of water in perfect condition with her guns intact. The general visibility in the area is between 80 feet to 150 feet and it considerably increases all through wet season caused by the dominant currents, whereas the months of July and August are the wettest and visibility stays high between the months of June and October. The precipitation has a tendency to fall largely in the twilights and only infrequently upsets daily activities. Sailing & Kayaking - The resort has a laser yacht, and kayaks. For those more adventurous we can arrange sailing expeditions around the lagoon using traditional sailing canoes called “Sailau”. Traditional sailing canoes are hand crafted from trees growing on Panaeati Island, just to the east of the Conflict Islands. Sailaus are the main form of transport for The Conflict Islands www.conflictislands.com 12 locals to get around the Louisiades; they are the only local transport, they are the truck, car and school bus for these island communities, and they are no slouch, they can race at 12-15 knots. Island Tours - Natural rainforest walking trails through tropical gardens with an abundance of bird life. With all 21 islands accessible by boat, daily island tours and picnics can be organised. Nature & Wildlife - Green and Hawksbill turtle, migrating Orca, Minke, Pilot and humpback whales; Manta Rays, and Dolphins all regularly visit the island group and can be seen frequently from the main resort area. APPENDIX A: NAMES & SIZES OF THE ISLANDS Island Irai Aroroa Panasesa Panarakuum Panaboal Tabulagoal Muniara Rutipiran Tupit Gabagabutau Gabagabutau Tupi Ginara Quesal Kolavia No. 2 Kolavia No. 3 Lutpilan Itamarina Lut Matavi Skye Charlotte & Harriet Baden Lachlan Kolavia No. 1 Zoning Price Beach Development Development Development Development Private Island Private Island Private Island Private Island Private Island Nature Reserve Nature Reserve Private Island Private Island Nature Reserve Nature Reserve Nature Reserve Common Use Nature Reserve Private Island Nature Reserve Nature Reserve Nature Reserve Nature Reserve The Conflict Islands www.conflictislands.com Sq. Metres Hectare Acres 7,012 3,630 3,719 3,244 5065 2262 2521 969,165.00 641,523.40 583,500.70 395,555.50 225,915.00 155,635.50 147,109.60 96.91 64.15 58.35 39.55 22.59 15.56 14.71 239.48 158.52 144.18 97.74 55.82 38.45 36.35 1883 98,920.70 9.89 24.44 1,005 1019 59,831.50 41,598.40 5.98 4.15 14.78 10.28 551 22,990.70 2.29 5.68 950 19,922.00 1.99 4.92 758 822 14,122.00 9,175.50 1.41 0.91 3.48 2.26 13 The Conflict Islands www.conflictislands.com 14 APPENDIX C: SOURCES PNG Tourism Promotion Board Address: Pacific MMI Building, Level2, Champion Parade, Port Moresby. PO Box 1291, Port Moresby, NCD, PNG Tel: (675) 3200 211 Fax: (675) 3200 223 Email: [email protected] Web: www.pngtourism.org.pg/ Investment considerations http://www.ipa.gov.pg http://www.tcsp.com/spto/cms/investment/indax.shtml http://www.tcsp.com/spto/export/sites/SPTO/investment/png.shtml Asian Development Bank PNG Profile http://www.adb.org/Documents/Profiles/ctry.asp?ctry=36 Atolls: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atoll Palmyra Atoll: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palmyra_Atoll The Nature Conservancy: http://www.nature.org/ourinitiatives/regions/northamerica/unitedstates/hawaii/palmyraatoll/ Te’tiaroa atoll: www.thebrando.com PNG Tourism Report 2011 http://www.tpa.papuanewguinea.travel/PicsHotel/PNGTA/Brochure/TPAFactsheets/Tourism-Investment-Guide-ReviewFirst-Draft-2011.pdf Halstead B., 1997; The Dive Sites of PNG; Passport Books - NTC Publishing Company; Chicago, IL - USA. Veron, J.E.N; 1997; Corals of Australia and the Indo-Pacific; University of Hawaii Press, Honolulu, USA Coral Reef Research Center: http://www.reef.crc.org.au/ Great Barrier Reef Marine Park authority: http://www.gbrmpa.gov.au/ Reef Teach Center (Paddy Colwell); Cairns - AUS: http://www.reefteach.com.au/ ReefBase - A Global Information System On Coral Reefs: http://www.reefbase.org/Summaries/default.htm National Geographic, 20 Best Trips of 2011 http://travel.nationalgeographic.com/travel/best-trips-2011-photos/ Tentative World Heritage listing, Milne Bay Seascape (Pacific Jewels of Marine Biodiversity) 06/06/2006 http://whc.unesco.org/en/tentativelists/5063/ Lonely Planet's top 10 islands and beaches to visit in 2014 No. 6. Papua New Guinea http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/lonely-planets-top-10-islands-and-beaches-to-visit-in-2014/story-e6frg6n61226747326437 Nomads Fishing Report on The Conflict Islands http://nomadsportfishing.com.au/wordpress/trip-options/browse-by-location/png-conflict-islands/ Milne Bay Seascape (Pacific Jewels of Marine Biodiversity) http://whc.unesco.org/en/tentativelists/5063/ A Rapid Marine Biodiversity Assessment Milne Bay Province, Papua New Guinea--Survey II (2000): RAP 29. Allen, Gerald R., Jeff P. Kinch, an d Sheila A. McKenna, editors, Distributed for Conservation International. 172 p. 8-1/2 x 11 2003 Series: (CI-RAP) Conservation International Rapid Assessment Program http://www.conservation.org/Documents/RAP_Reports/RAP29_Milne_Bay_2_PNG_May-2000.pdf Social Evaluation Study for the Milne Bay Community-Based Coastal and Marine Conservation Program PNG/99/G41 Jeff Kinch, April 2001 http://www.ciesin.columbia.edu/repository/pern/papers/database-kinch.doc The Conflict Islands www.conflictislands.com 15 Conservation International. 2001. Project Brief: Milne Bay Community-based Coastal and Marine Conservation Program. Submission to the Global Environment Facility (PNG/01/G31/A/1), Washington D.C., United States of America. - AND Global Environment Facility. 2002. Papua New Guinea: Community-based Coastal and Marine Conservation in Milne Bay Province. Project proposal submitted for approval, May 2002. http://www.conservation.org/Documents/RAP_Reports/RAP29_Milne_Bay_2_PNG_May-2000.pdf Milne Bay Province Corals http://biophysics.sbg.ac.at/png/png1.htm Munday P.L. and G.R. Allen , 2000 , Diversity and Abundance of Reef Fishes in Papua New Guinea. . Chapter 3. In: Munday, P.L. (2000). The Status of Coral Reefs in Papua New Guinea. Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network (GCRMN) Report Reefbase Papua New Guinea http://www.reefbase.org/global_database/dbr3,60,PNG,1.aspx APPENDIX D: QUICK LINKS To listen to a podcast of an interview with Ian Gowrie-Smith Click Here To watch an introductory video about the existing resort Click Here To see hundreds of images, maps and development plans of the Conflict Islands Click Here To watch Nomad Sportfishing videos Video 1 - Video 2 - Video 3 To watch Steve Parish video Click Here The Conflict Islands www.conflictislands.com 16