Prime Minister Hon. James Marape today attended the funeral of Sir Graeme Ian Whitchurch OBE KT, affectionately known across Papua New Guinea as “Sir Boga.” Sir Graeme passed away on 23 November 2025, aged 79.
Sir Graeme served Papua New Guinea for more than four decades, working in senior administrative roles supporting the National Parliament of Papua New Guinea. His long and loyal service was recognised when he was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) and later knighted in the Papua New Guinea Honours for public service.
In Cairns today, Prime Minister Marape joined Lady Kaia Whitchurch, their children, grandchildren, extended family, and communities from both PNG and Australia in celebrating Sir Graeme’s remarkable life, one defined by humility, loyalty, and steadfast commitment to public duty.
Prime Minister Marape said Sir Graeme embodied the quiet strength that shaped PNG’s early decades of independence:
“Sir Graeme Whitchurch was part of the foundation of our public institutions. His commitment to Parliament and his service to our people helped uphold stability and continuity over many years. We honour him as a true servant of our nation.
“He is remembered as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, public servant, mentor, and community leader whose impact touched thousands in Papua New Guinea and Australia.
“May he rest in eternal peace.”
The Prime Minister extended heartfelt condolences to the Whitchurch family and reaffirmed PNG’s gratitude for Sir Graeme’s lifetime of service.
Speaking on behalf of Prime Minister Marape, PNG High Commissioner to Australia, H.E. John Kali, delivered a moving tribute that honoured Sir Graeme’s profound and multi-generational impact on PNG.
In his address, the High Commissioner said Papua New Guinea mourns not only a distinguished public servant, but a man who shaped lives, communities, and national institutions.
He emphasised Sir Graeme’s contributions both inside and beyond Parliament:
• He inspired and mentored countless Papua New Guineans through his leadership and generosity.
• He played a formative role in Koboni Football Club, which became a sporting and social home for generations of Papua New Guineans.
• His work in Parliament was described as the quiet strength that helped hold up the institution with integrity and discipline.
• His influence extended into community life, sporting culture, and public service, leaving behind what the High Commissioner called “a legacy written in people, in communities, in lives changed by kindness and belief.”
H.E. John Kali further conveyed that the Government recognises Sir Graeme’s service as foundational:
“Sir Boga was one of those rare individuals whose integrity strengthened institutions simply by the character he brought into his work. Papua New Guinea was blessed with a servant leader who gave his best not for applause, but for the good of others.”
Speaking directly to Lady Kaia and the Whitchurch family, the High Commissioner acknowledged the family’s devotion, sacrifice, and partnership over the decades:
“No man gives so much of himself to a nation unless he is strengthened by a family who loves him. His achievements were shaped by your sacrifices, and his joy was rooted in you. Your grief is shared by a nation.”
He concluded by affirming that Sir Graeme’s legacy continues to live on: “Sir Boga’s legacy is not ending — it is living. Living in Parliament, living in Koboni, living In every person who found courage, opportunity, or direction because of him.”