Postcard from Saiwa Daneben

Master of Law, 2024

“From Madang to Armidale, my UNE journey was one of lasting memories.

I grew up in beautiful Madang Province, nestled along the northern coast of Papua New Guinea. I did my primary and secondary schooling there before attending university in Port Moresby.

In 2013, I proudly graduated with a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Papua New Guinea and was admitted to practice before the National and Supreme Courts. My career began as a commercial lawyer in a private law firm in Port Moresby, but life took an unexpected turn in 2015 when illness forced me to step away.

After recovering, I joined the newly established Papua New Guinea Road Traffic Authority. Starting as a legal officer in 2016, I was soon entrusted with the role of Acting Board Secretary, a position that would shape my future path. When I was awarded the Australia Awards Scholarship to pursue a Master of Laws at UNE, it was both exhilarating and daunting.

Boarding a Qantas flight for Brisbane in January 2023 was my first time leaving Papua New Guinea and the experience was overwhelming. I nearly missed my connecting flight to Sydney, lost in the maze of Brisbane International Airport, and I was the last passenger to board the flight to Armidale, my heart racing.

From the air, the Australian landscape unfolded like a painting: vast plains, rolling hills and endless skies. Choosing UNE and Armidale proved to be one of the best decisions of my life. Armidale, with its laid-back charm and country-town warmth, was the perfect setting for serious study. I soon moved into Wright Village, which was fun and a great way to meet other students.

The UNE Law School was phenomenal. The guidance of Dr Andrew Lawson, Professor Mark Perry and others, who were always willing to meet in person and discuss challenges, made the academic journey less intimidating. The international support services staff, including Ashleigh, Alexendra and Rebekah, were a lifeline, helping those of us on Australia Awards Scholarships to settle into a new country with ease.

My transition from professional work to full-time study was seamless, thanks to the welcoming staff and supportive environment. My grades reflected not just hard work, but the nurturing atmosphere UNE provided.

What I will forever cherish about Armidale is its natural beauty, especially in autumn. Driving from Armidale to Tamworth during that season was like travelling through a corridor of gold and crimson leaves dancing in the wind, painting the roadside with spectacular colours. Road trips to nearby towns like Guyra and Inverell added to the adventure, each place offering its own charm. One unforgettable journey was the drive from Armidale to Brisbane via Grafton, returning through Coffs Harbour along the breathtaking Waterfall Way. Every bend in the road revealed another postcard-worthy view.

I completed my studies in May 2024 and returned to Papua New Guinea the following month. Resuming my role at the Road Traffic Authority, I was appointed permanent Board Secretary, a contract position I proudly hold today. I will forever be thankful to the people of Australia, through the Australia Awards Scholarship, for opening this door. My gratitude extends to the teaching and support staff of UNE, who turned my academic pursuit into a wonderful adventure filled with lifelong memories.

Thank you Armidale and the New England region for the lessons, the landscapes and the friendships. You gave me not just an education, but an experience that will remain etched in my heart forever.”