About
the society’s mission, vision & History.
OUR MISSION
To promote and preserve the rich history of Rabaul through education, tourism, and cultural conservation. We are committed to engaging the community and future generations in understanding and appreciating Rabaul’s unique heritage. Our work is driven by a dedicated team of volunteers who share a deep passion for the region’s past and its enduring legacy.
OUR VISION
A thriving and informed community that values and safeguards the historical legacy of Rabaul, where local and global visitors alike can explore and celebrate its cultural richness through meaningful educational and tourism experiences.
Our Origin Story
The Rabaul Historical Society emerged from a collective passion to safeguard and celebrate the rich tapestry of Rabaul’s history. Situated in East New Britain, Papua New Guinea, Rabaul has been a focal point of significant historical events—from its days as a colonial capital to its pivotal role during World War II, and the transformative volcanic eruptions that reshaped its landscape .en.wikipedia.org+2en.wikipedia.org+2papuanewguinea.travel+2
In the aftermath of the 1994 volcanic eruption, which led to the relocation of the provincial capital to Kokopo, a group of dedicated volunteers recognized the urgency to preserve Rabaul’s unique heritage. This commitment gave birth to the Rabaul Historical Society, a community-driven organization devoted to education, tourism, and the preservation of cultural landmarks.
Operating from the historic New Guinea Club, the Society has transformed this iconic venue into a hub for historical exhibitions and community events. Notably, they have showcased artifacts such as the US Motor Torpedo Boats PT-346 and PT-347, offering tangible connections to the past .facebook.com
Beyond curating exhibits, the Society actively engages in commemorative activities, including ANZAC Day and Remembrance Day ceremonies, ensuring that the sacrifices and stories of Rabaul’s past are honored and remembered . Through these endeavors, the Rabaul Historical Society continues to foster a deep appreciation for the town’s enduring legacy, bridging the past with the present for future generations.
What We Do ?
At the Rabaul Historical Society Inc, we are committed to preserving and sharing the rich and diverse history of Rabaul and the surrounding regions of East New Britain. As a non-profit volunteer-based organisation, our work is driven by a deep respect for the past and a passion for keeping memories alive for future generations.
We focus on:
– Preservation of Historical Sites: Caring for and advocating the protection of heritage landmarks, including the New Guinea Club building and wartime relics.
– Archival and Research Support: Collecting, cataloguing, and sharing historical photographs, documents, and oral histories.
– Community Engagement: Organising annual commemorative events such as ANZAC Day, Remembrance Day, and the Frangipani Festival.
– Educational Outreach: Supporting schools, researchers, and visitors with guided tours, talks, and historical resources.
– Membership and Volunteerism: Encouraging community involvement through membership programs, volunteer opportunities, and local partnerships.
All proceeds and donations are reinvested into the management, maintenance, and educational initiatives of the Society. Through these efforts, we honour the legacy of those who came before us—and ensure their stories are never forgotten.
Meet our committee
A Team Of Professionals and expatriates
President
David Flinn
Secretary/Treasurer
Susan McGrade Alexander OBE
Testimonials
— Megan R., Australia
Mt. Tavurvur Adventure
“Standing on the edge of Mt. Tavurvur was absolutely surreal—watching the steam rise and feeling the earth beneath us was like stepping into a different world. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and made the whole experience safe, informative, and unforgettable. Rabaul is a hidden gem!”
— Daniel S., PNG Historian
Yamamoto Bunker Visit
“Visiting the Yamamoto Bunker was a moving experience. Walking through the underground passages gave us a real sense of the region’s wartime history. The tour gave us a deeper appreciation of Rabaul’s role in WWII and how its history continues to shape the present.”
— Sarah L., New Zealand
Frangipani Festival Delight
“The Frangipani Festival was a heartwarming celebration of culture, resilience, and remembrance. The music, the traditional dances, and the community spirit brought tears to my eyes. It’s an event I’ll cherish forever—and I’ll definitely be back next year!”