He says he is excited about the opportunity. “The newspaper and the company play a very important role in the culture and life of Papua New Guineans,” says Smith. “It’s a great challenge and responsibility but one I look forward to.”

South Pacific Post Ltd publishes The Post-Courier, Papua New Guinea’s oldest and largest-selling national newspaper with a circulation of over 26,000, a 49 per cent lead on its daily rival.

The Post-Courier was this year highly commended in the Pacific Area Newspaper Publishers’ Association awards for its leading role on community issues such as women’s rights, corruption, HIV/AIDS awareness and a gun control campaign that has led to a PNG guns summit. Its magazine NAW (Newagewoman), is the South Pacific’s only women’s magazine, which is now inserted free of charge in the daily newspaper, boosting circulation from 3,000 to 27,500.

News Limited CEO John Hartigan says Smith has the ideal skills and experience to lead South Pacific Post. “Kevin has been successful in generating new business throughout our Northern Territory division. I know he will take the same determination and leadership skills to his new role,” says Hartigan.

Smith takes over from Bob Howarth, who is moving to another executive position within News Limited, and will work alongside will be working with a crusading editor, Oseah Philemon.

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