THE Anglican Church of Melanesia (ACOM) has reopened its shipyard at Taroniara, Central Islands Province (CIP), after two years of maintenance and refurbishment.
A statement from ACOM said Taroniara Shipyard reopened on Friday last week after a reopening ceremony attended by representatives from ACOM Provincial Headquarters, Diocese of Central Solomons officers led by Right Reverend Bishop Steven Koete, Diocese of Guadalcanal representatives led by Right Reverend Bishop Benedict Loe and CIP representatives.
The statement said major work was done on the slipway’s creedal with the replacement of old beams, wooden blocks and installation of new rails and slabs.
Taroniara Shipyard representative Gordon Iro said Taroniara slipway is now ready to take on ships from 100 to 200 tonnes.
ACOM made the decision to refurbish the slipway in 2019 to maintain the historical piece of the church’s infrastructure.
Speaking at the reopening ceremony ACOM general secretary Dr Abraham Hauriasi took the opportunity to thank landowners, chiefs and communities for their support and understanding towards this historical site.
“Taroniara Shipyard is a Mission Station where church services, education and health care and industrial activities were being undertaken as part of the mission and ministry of the church,” Dr Hauriasi said.
Central Islands Province (CIP) Premier Polycarp Galaigu said the province will continue to work together with Taroniara Shipyard and the church to ensure it continues to provide its services to the people and the nation.
“CIP is also a beneficiary of Taroniara Shipyard through its taxes and business licence and we must thank you for that,” the Premier told the church representatives.
Bishop Koete officiated at the ceremony assisted by ACOM Faith and Order Commission representative Reverend Wilfred Kekea and the clergy at Taroniara station.
