WUNDERLI WANDERINGS

Simon is back in PNG for a month.  This time he is being checked out to fly IFR (instrument flight rating)  with Volkher Jacobson.  He was also doing some training with Ricky Poki whilst he was in Balimo and celebrate Ricky's first solo flight for MAF.   Simon and Volkher take to the skies for some IFR training    Beautiful landscape   Well done Ricky!      

Simon and Joseph ended up at the same airstrip together and Joseph took the video below of Simon coming into land. (Thanks Joseph :) Simon did training with Joseph a few years ago and its good to see  them catch up again in PNG. These two have fun together.  Can you tell? Simon flying Joel and his family back to their MAF base in PNG.  Here’s the short version of a much longer story and thanks for the reminder Andrea :) Twenty-one years ago, Simon and I were in Bern, Switzerland for MAF Tag (Day). While we were there, Joel reached out to Simon. It didn’t seem like a big moment at the time, but it turned out to be significant. That connection (among others) led Joel to volunteer with MAF in Madagascar for four months. From there, the journey continued, eventually leading both Joel and Andrea to join MAF. We are glad they did :) Simon later played a role in some of Joel’s training in PNG, and now, years on, they’ve been able to continue that connection in person in PNG...

We are so thankful that Joshua finally has a job. He applied for around 250 roles without much success, which was tough at times. In the middle of that, he offered to help MAF on a short-term basis but in the end it wasn't needed. However, his CV was in the system and matched a new role that was coming out and the rest is history.  He had an interview a couple of weeks ago and was offered the position. He started this week and is currently in Cairns for an induction.  The role is Digital Learning and Content Coordinator and is under the Learning and Organisational Development Department. We’re really thankful to those who have been praying. It is a big answer to prayer, and a reminder that things don’t always come together in the way—or timing—we expect. It’s also pretty special that his first job after university is with MAF.  Who would have thought?

Last week I had the opportunity to fly up to PNG with Simon and see where he lives and works.  It was good to be there and have some context. Also great to meet old and new friends.  I am thankful for the time spent there and to get a glimpse of the impact that MAF has in PNG. Arriving in Mount Hagen   Kagamuga compound where we are staying "Home"!   View of the compound Simon picking up his manifest and getting ready for the day. MAF Hangar in Mount Hagen Wee chicks on their first flight - so cute! Freight ready to be loaded Anyone for noodles? Two non paying passengers :) What an office view Simon has when the weather is clear. Mount Hagen town - nice road (fairly new) It wasn't sunny all week and when it rained it rained in buckets!  

Simon had the incredible opportunity to fly into a newly opened airstrip and witness firsthand the joy and celebration that comes after a year of dedication and hard work resulting in this brand-new airstrip.

Simon is currently in Papua New Guinea and has been spending some time in Telefomin to get checked out in that area. I’ve included two videos below so you can get a feel for what it’s like where he is, along with some photos. There’s also a map showing roughly where he is in the videos compared to one of our main bases, Mount Hagen.    Later start out of Telefomin due to fog  

Joshua and Georgia were engaged just before Christmas. Enjoy the photos of their special moment.  We are looking forward to the big day - 30th May 2026 here in Australia.      

Happy New Year to you all! We’ve been a little quiet over the past few weeks as we’ve been focused on managing Zara’s health issues and prayerfully working through possible solutions. As part of her healing journey, we were able to travel to Scotland and Switzerland to spend time with family. Those weeks were a real gift — it was deeply refreshing for all of us to be surrounded by family, and to experience their love, care, and encouragement. We are now back in Australia and beginning to plan what this year may look like. We would really value your prayers for wisdom and guidance as we step into this season, which still carries some uncertainty, but also much hope. We also have some exciting news to share! Joshua became engaged to Georgia just before Christmas 🎉 They are planning their wedding for this coming May, so it’s a busy and joyful time ahead for them as they prepare for this next chapter. Engagement photos to come. 😊 Looking ahead, Simon will be heading to PNG in a c...