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System1
Annual Report 2017

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FY2017 Annual Report · System1
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ANNUAL REPORT

2017

CONTENTS

Brief Profile of Steamships Group    .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   . 2

Financial Highlights   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   . 4

Chairman’s Report   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   . 6

Directors’ Review    .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   . 7

Review of Operations - LOGISTICS   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   . 9

Consort Express Lines   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   . 9

Pacific Towing   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .  10

Transport & Port Services    .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   11

Review of Operations - PROPERTY    .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   12

Coral Sea Hotels  .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .  12

Pacific Palms Property   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .  13

Review of Operations - COMMERCIAL    .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   14

Laga Industries  .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .  14

Colgate Palmolive   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .  15

Sustainability  .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .  16

Corporate Governance  .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .  17

Financial Section  .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .  18

Statements of Comprehensive Income  .   .   .   .   .   .   .  18

Statement of Changes in Equity    .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   19

Statements of Financial Position   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .  20

Statements of Cash Flows   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   21

Notes to the Financial Statements   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .  22

Independent Auditor’s Report   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .  53

Directors’ Report  .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .  59

Stock Exchange Information  .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .  63

Company Directory    .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .   .

IBC

Steamships Annual Report 2017       1

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
BRIEF PROFILE OF STEAMSHIPS GROUP 

Steamships Trading Company (Steamships) is a committed investor in Papua New 
Guinea celebrating its 100 year history in 2018. The group is a well-established business 
conglomerate with diverse commercial interests and listings on both the Australian and Port 
Moresby Stock Exchanges. 

Steamships has a vision to build a valuable and profitable business that is widely respected as 
being the best group to work for and with which to do business .

 Customer Focus – Our customers are the final judges 
of our success or failure. We understand and respond 
to the needs of our customers . 

• 

• 

• 

 People Development – We value a working 
environment that fosters innovation and encourages 
personal development and learning .

 Humility – We believe in the need to respect and to 
learn from others. To do this we must be aware of 
our own limitations and to seek to understand other 
perspectives .

 Continuity – We take a long term view. We grow 
our business sustainably and create enduring value 
that earns the respect of our customers, our staff, our 
communities and our shareholders .

Steamships is aware of its prominent position in the 
community and its responsibility to serve that community. 
The Group continues to be one of PNG’s largest private 
sector employers and one of the largest supporters of 
community initiatives in education, health and social 
welfare. Steamships ensures that core sustainability 
concepts are embedded in its business models and 
systems. The Group is wholly aware that its business goals 
cannot be achieved unless this is the case . Steamships 
cannot succeed without the engagement and support of 
the people it employs, the loyalty and satisfaction of its 
customers, the local communities and the environment in 
which it operates . 

Steamships is still showing it has the resources and 
capacity, vision and capability to meet the dynamic needs 
of a growing country.

Integral to this vision are the following business strategies:

• 

• 

• 

 The long-term development of a diversified range of 
businesses in which shareholder value can be created,

 Employment of staff who we believe will further our 
strategic objectives and will be committed to the 
group for the long term and providing them with 
rewarding careers,

• 

 Operational excellence in the way we conduct our 
business,

•  Doing business in a sustainable manner, and

• 

 Commitment to the highest standards of corporate 
governance .

The Group employs over 3,100 PNG citizens and 
non-citizens in 6 diverse divisions grouped under 
the 3 operating categories of Logistics, Property and 
Commercial . 

Steamships core values include the following:

• 

• 

• 

 Safety – We prioritise safety awareness and 
compliance to ensure our business operations are 
conducted safely.

 Integrity – Taking the more ethical and honest path; 
honouring our commitments and delivering on our 
promises;  creating a bond of trust that sustains 
relationships with our staff, customers, shareholders, 
business partners and the communities in which we 
do business .

 Excellence – Our customers and colleagues expect 
us to deliver high quality goods and services. If 
something is to be done, we believe it should be done 
in the best possible way.

2       Steamships Annual Report 2017

BRIEF PROFILE OF STEAMSHIPS GROUP 

STEAMSHIPS’ ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE

STEAMSHIPS TRADING COMPANY

LOGISTICS 

  PROPERTY 

COMMERCIAL

  Consort Express 
Lines 

Pacific Towing 

Transport & 
Port Services 

Pacific Palms 
Property 

Coral Sea 
Hotels 

Laga 
Industries

X5 Associate Port 
Service Co’s 

East West 
Transport 

Harbourside 
Development JV 

Colgate 
Palmolive JV

JV Port Services 
(x9 JV Entities) 

Pacific 
Rumana JV 

Wonye JV

Viva No 31 JV

Steamships Annual Report 2017       3

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

2017 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

Revenue 
Profit attributable to shareholders 
Cash generated from operations 
Net cash inflow/(outflow) before financing 
Shareholders’ funds 
External Borrowings 

Earnings per share (toea) 
Dividends Declared per share (toea) 
Shareholders’ funds per share (kina) 

Underlying profit attributable to shareholders 
Underlying earnings per share (toea) 

Gearing ratio 
Interest cover 
Dividend cover 

2017 
K’000 

2016 
K’000 

Change
%

     705,687  
       41,516  
     102,029  
       84,390  
     841,964  
     441,020  

732,701 
84,210 
     191,061  
     229,044  
833,006 
502,497 

134 
110 
27.15 

61,775 
199 

272 
130 
26.86 

71,721 
231 

33.1% 
             6.2  
             1.3  

34.6% 
             6.7  
             2.1  

-4%
-51%
-47%
-63%
1%
-12%

-51%
-15%
1%

-14%
-14%

-4%
-7%
-39%

4       Steamships Annual Report 2017

 
 
 
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
  
  
  
 
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

SUMMARY OF PAST PEFORMANCE   

2008 
K’000 

2009 
K’000 

2010 
K’000 

2011 
K’000 

2012 
K’000 

2013 
K’000 

2014 
K’000 

2015 
K’000 

2016 
K’000 

2017
K’000

INCOME STATEMENT (including discontinued operations) 
Revenue 
Profit before tax 
Share of associates profit 
Income tax expense 
Minority interests 
Net profit attributable to shareholders 
Depreciation transfer 
Equity adjustment 
Dividends paid or provided for the year 
Earnings retained this year 

159 
- 
(45,272) 
45,113 

920,357  986,310  930,934  941,708      773,535       732,701  705,687  
462,972  495,976  789,918 
79,747  134,789      136,042       118,686    62,686  
233,967  265,574 
111,615  120,602  180,834 
3,843          3,062           5,865      7,525  
9,697 
13,859 
14,188 
11,416 
16,732 
16,837 
(35,677)  (32,621)
(14,042) 
(67,727)  (81,414) 
(53,935) 
(34,637) 
(32,808) 
3,926
(4,664) 
(6,137) 
38,609 
(21,838)  (20,648) 
(21,870) 
(5,418) 
41,516
84,210 
96,560  116,445  158,261  177,700  114,011 
90,226 

(38,487)  (37,710) 
(2,415) 
(11,490) 
98,979 
88,655 

- 
- 
(45,272) 
51,288 

- 
- 
(31,008) 
85,437 

(1,061) 
- 

- 
- 
(58,916)  (88,373) 
89,327 
98,284 

- 
(8,994) 
(57,365) 
47,652 

- 
- 
-          2,206 
(43,411)  (48,062) 
53,123 
45,244 

- 
-
-              -      
(40,291)  (32,558)
8,958
43,919 

Underlying profit attributable to shareholders 
(adjusted for significant items) 

67,770 

85,120  113,597  153,566  156,213  128,367  108,808 

80,651 

71,721 

61,775

BALANCE SHEET 
SHARE CAPITAL & RESERVES 
Issued Capital 
Retained Earnings 
Shareholders’ funds 

EQUITY 

Fixed Assets / Investment Properties 
Investments in Associated Companies 
Future Income Tax Benefit 
Goodwill 
Other assets 
TOTAL ASSETS 

24,200 
24,200        24,200         24,200    24,200  
24,200 
24,200 
24,200 
554,349  652,978  689,777  711,764      764,887       808,806   817,764  
302,595  353,883  428,157 
326,795  378,083  452,357  578,549  677,178  713,977  735,964  789,087  833,006  841,964

24,200 

24,200 

18,336 

48,831      36,190   
345,131  421,937  515,208  653,914  761,500  736,884  766,737  836,602  881,837  878,154

30,773        47,515 

84,322 

62,851 

22,907 

43,854 

75,365 

353,261  664,196  786,510 
938,709  1,023,861  1,066,393  1,115,123   1,072,955    1,068,892    997,125  
15,416 
17,939 
33,337 
33,193        36,458         66,445    67,196   
28,445 
9,282 
7,305 
4,150 
33,521        36,914         36,680    30,250  
- 
17,183 
17,183 
7,578 
17,183 
80,491        80,491         80,491    80,002   
299,634  411,920  352,549  366,479      400,480       284,200   294,800   
154,508  203,480  294,203 
552,834  910,103  1,122,595  1,283,971 1,491,651  1,565,111  1,628,807 1,627,298  1,536,708 1,469,373

31,471 
21,081 
93,617 

38,687 
- 
17,183 

Current Liabilities  
Non-Current Liabilities 
TOTAL LIABILITIES 

122,562  236,847  273,055 
85,141  251,319  334,331 

283,445  370,396  230,390  190,621      541,292       184,646   221,560   
346,612  359,755  597,837  671,449      249,404       470,225   369,659   
207,703  488,166  607,386  630,057  730,151  828,227  862,070  790,696  654,871  591,219

NET ASSETS 

345,131  421,937  515,208  653,914  761,500  736,884  766,737  836,602  881,837  878,154

RATIOS 
Current assets to current liabilities 
Borrowings to shareholders funds 
Gearing  
Tangible net asset backing per share (kina) 
Net profit to revenue % 
Net profit to shareholders’ funds % 
Underlying profit to shareholders’ funds % 
Dividends per share (toea)  
EPS (toea) 
Underlying EPS (toea) 
Earnings retained % 

         1.26          0.86          1.08          1.06          1.11            1.53          1.92  
95.2% 
47.8% 
22.13 
9.4% 
12.0% 
14.8% 

34.8% 
24.8% 
10.89 
19.5% 
27.6% 
20.7% 

89.1% 
44.4% 
13.05 
19.5% 
25.5% 
22.5% 

89.7% 
44.0% 
16.06 
14.7% 
25.7% 
25.1% 

89.7% 
46.5% 
20.75 
12.2% 
16.0% 
18.0% 

70.1% 
38.3% 
20.53 
17.2% 
27.4% 
26.5% 

72.6% 
39.2% 
24.00 
18.0% 
26.2% 
23.1% 

          146           146           100           190           285             185           140  
          291           311           376           510           573             368           286  
         219           275           366           495           504             414           351  

50.0% 

53.1% 

73.4% 

62.1% 

50.3% 

41.8% 

51.0% 

0.74 
81.7% 
43.1% 
24.38 
12.8% 
12.5% 
10.2% 
155 
319 
260 
53.7% 

1.16 
57.0% 
34.6% 
25.84 
11.5% 
10.1% 
8.6% 
130 
272 
231 
52.2% 

1.00
50.2%
33.1%
25.74
5.9%
4.9%
7.3%
110
134
199
21.6%

Notes 
Earnings per share = profit attributable to shareholders / average shares in issue
Gearing = debt / debt plus equity
Interest cover = earnings before interest and tax / net finance charge
Dividend cover = profit attributable to shareholders / total dividend paid and provided  

Steamships Annual Report 2017       5

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
  
  
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
CHAIRMAN’S REPORT

2017 was another challenging year for Papua New Guinea and few business sectors 
were unaffected by the weak economy. The lack of foreign currency continued to restrict 
business activity and the Kina remained under pressure. Government expenditure remained 
constrained by the national budget deficit although recent support from the multilateral 
development banks should reduce default risk .

Economic indicators show a stable but weak environment 
and although commodity prices, upon which the economy 
is heavily dependent, generally increased during the year, 
this did not result in any noticeable increase in economic 
activity. The continuing low oil and gas prices and delays 
to announcements on anticipated development projects 
have not helped the cautious sentiment, but the quality and 
extent of PNG resources are such that development should 
commence in the foreseeable future and bring a much 
needed boost to the economy.

The 2017 National Elections returned substantially the 
same Government and the stability is welcome. The new 
Government increased its dialogue with the private sector 
to address issues facing the country, which is encouraging. 
It is hoped that such dialogue will result in policy revision 
and new legislation which attracts and promotes foreign 
and private sector investment which has hitherto been 
discouraged by suggested reforms to the Land Act, Mining 
Act and SME policy.

The on-going national budget deficit creates short term 
pressure for the economic outlook, which, combined with 
lacklustre private sector investment, will likely see another 
difficult year for business in 2018. 

More positively, Port Moresby will host the APEC economic 
leaders meeting in November 2018 and there are many 
related events throughout the year, which will generate 
business activity in some sectors. Construction of the 
conference centre and other infrastructure developments 
are well advanced and Steamships welcomes this landmark 
event that will promote PNG globally. 

During 2017, PNG Ports Corporation announced its 
decision to award the International Terminal Concession in 
Port Moresby and Lae to a new operator. Steamships’ Joint 
Venture Port Services business, one of the Group’s logistics 
businesses including shipping, towing, stevedoring and 
transport, will be significantly affected in 2018 and three 
joint venture companies will cease operations as a result . 
Appropriate consideration has been made for possible loss 
on sale of assets and inventory. Shipping suffered from 
the continuing economic weakness, whilst Pacific Towing 
and East West Transport performed satisfactorily. The 
Company remains committed to the logistics sector and its 
customers .

6       Steamships Annual Report 2017

Pacific Palms Property’s performance was acceptable in 
light of the frail economy and continues to maintain high 
quality investments in strategic locations. There was over-
supply in all sectors as demand fell further from 2016, 
with both rents and occupancy levels under pressure. 
Market conditions have led to a cautious approach to 
new development but some exciting prospects are in the 
design phase. The reconstruction of Waigani Central was 
completed after the 2015 fire, as well as the joint venture 
mixed commercial and retail developments in Mt . Hagen 
and Madang, which completed at the year end.

Coral Sea Hotels’ performance stabilised in 2017 after 
declining the prior year due to the economic slowdown 
and new capacity entering the Port Moresby market. 
Investment was maintained in upgrading product and 
service standards in 2017 to better attract and retain 
customers in the increasingly competitive market. 

Laga industries produced a good result, with strong 
revenue growth and a recovery in profit. This resulted 
from improved manufacturing, sales and distribution 
effectiveness, in both the ice cream and cooking oils sector 
and the division continues to invest in modern equipment 
to enhance product quality and consumer experience.

Capital investment was again constrained in 2017 in light 
of the continuing economic downturn. The balance sheet 
is strong and Steamships is well positioned to capitalise on 
opportunities as they arise. Steamships remains confident 
in the medium term prospects for the PNG economy, 
whilst remaining cautious and disciplined in facing the 
short term challenges . In 2018, Steamships will recognise 
100 years of operation and we aspire to contribute and 
participate in PNG’s economic and social development for 
many years to come.

Steamships has maintained its investment in the training 
and development of its employees despite the economic 
slowdown. We will be at the head of the recovery of 
economic growth and our team will continue to grow 
Steamships and its contribution to PNG. I thank all our staff 
for their commitment and hard work, which have been and 
will remain critical to the success of Steamships .

GL Cundle
Chairman

29 March 2018

DIRECTORS’ REVIEW

The result reflects a continuation of the protracted weakness in economic conditions that 
began in 2015. Modest recent increases in some commodity prices, which significantly 
impact the national economy, have not yet filtered through the economy. Demand is also 
constrained by the ongoing shortage of foreign currency in PNG. The property and hotel 
markets also saw an increase in capacity and consequently competition which compounded 
this weak demand environment . As a consequence 2017 has seen pressure across the 
economy and Steamships’ sales revenue has declined 3.7% to K705.7 million against last 
year’s K732.7 million, on a continuing basis.

2017 
K000’s 

2016 
K000’s 

Change

Net profit attributable to shareholders 

41,516 

84,210 

-50.7%

Add back/(less) impact of significant items (post tax and minority interests)
Reversal of Impairment of Convertible Notes 
Impairment of Fixed Assets, Goodwill (incl Vessels) 
Impairment of Inventory 
Disputed IRC Assessment 
Tax Loss Write Off 
Hotel & Property Development Cost Write Off 
Gain on Sale of Trade Winds 
Loss on Disposal of Vessels 
Gain on Sale of Properties 
Salvage Profit 
Total impact of significant items 

(12,541) 
8,306 
1,012 
10,640 
11,108 
5,965 
(1,586) 
814 
- 
(3,459) 
20,258 

-
2,276
433
-
-
5,574
-
-
(19,207)
(1,565)
(12,489)

Underlying profit attributable to shareholders 

61,775 

71,721 

-13.9%

Depreciation in 2017 was K99.8 million (excluding 
impairments) against K106.7 million in 2016, and interest 
on borrowings (excluding capitalised interest) was K13.5 
million against K22.0 million in 2016. Capital expenditure 
for the 12 months was K54.0 million (with capitalised 
interest of K1.4 million) against K109.7 million (with 
capitalised interest of K1.7 million) in 2016 reflecting a 
planned reduction in project activity given the economic 
climate. The group’s net operating cash flow generation 
declined 47% to K102.0 million against K191.1 million in 
2016 as a result of reduced profits as noted above and a 
higher amount retained in working capital .  

A final dividend of 40 toea per share has been proposed 
and will be paid following approval at the company’s 
annual general meeting on the 8th of June 2018, subject 
to Steamships’ ability to secure foreign exchange for non 
PNG shareholders. This brings the total dividend for the 
year to 110 toea per share (2016 = 130 toea per share). 
The dividend is unfranked and there is no conduit foreign 
income .

Significant items

As disclosed at the half year the reversal of impairment of 
convertible notes arising from the sale of the company’s 
investment in BMobile, impaired in 2013, gave rise to a net 
gain of K12.5m.

Included in the impairment figure above are two items. 
Firstly, the award of the exclusive international terminal 
concession to ICTSI in late 2017 will result in the cessation 
of operations of the joint venture companies in Port 
Moresby and Lae. A gross impairment provision of K4.1m 
has been made on possible loss on sale of fixed assets, 
inventory and employee redundancy costs. Secondly, the 
soft international market for coastal vessels and oversupply 
of such vessels in PNG, has resulted in an impairment of 
some of the vessels in the Consort Express Lines fleet and a 
gross impairment of K10m has been recognised.

Consort Express Lines has recorded a tax loss for the past 
few years and such cumulative losses are available to offset 
future taxable profits in computation of the company’s 

Steamships Annual Report 2017       7

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
DIRECTORS’ REVIEW

tax liability and hence is recorded as a deferred tax asset. 
The value of this asset at the end of 2016 was K30.5m. 
Management have considered the recoverability of tax 
losses beyond this amount to be not sufficiently probable 
in light of current trading conditions and it is prudent that 
the tax loss in 2017 is not carried forward as a deferred tax 
asset . 

The Company received a salaries and wages tax default 
assessment, including penalties and interest, from the 
Inland Revenue Commission of PNG (“IRC”) for the 
periods from 2006 to 2016. The Company has paid 
the assessment and lodged the appropriate objections 
as required by the IRC and will vigorously pursue the 
process of objection and recovery. Although management 
are confident of a successful outcome, the application 
of IAS37 requires such recovery to be considered as a 
contingent asset and not carried in the balance sheet.  The 
payment is therefore expensed in the current year.

Trading Outlook

2018 is expected to be another difficult year for the PNG 
economy as the Government attempts to manage its 
growing fiscal deficit and the foreign currency shortage. 
The resource extraction sector upon which much of the 
economy depends is expected to remain quiet although 
on-going feasibility studies and recent announcements 
have been encouraging for the medium term . 

Port Moresby will host the APEC leaders meeting in 
November 2018 and there are numerous senior meetings 
ahead of this which should provide a modest economic 
stimulus .

Steamships celebrates 100 years of business in PNG in 
2018 and this provides an opportunity to restate our 
commitment to the future development of the country and 
people of PNG. 

8       Steamships Annual Report 2017

REVIEW OF OPERATIONS - LOGISTICS

CONSORT EXPRESS LINES 

Consort operates a fleet of 16 coastal vessels (5 
geared, multi-purpose deep water vessels and 11 
shallow water landing craft, bulk carriers, tugs and 
barges). All are PNG flagged and manned and all 
safety and technical specifications are maintained 
in accordance with Lloyds international standards.     

LINER SERVICES

Consort connects 17 ports around PNG. The 
Division has scheduled services to the North Coast, 
South Coast, New Guinea Islands, Bougainville 
and Western Province. Consort proudly serves the 
people of PNG by providing the sole supply link to 
many of the communities on its routes.

The division can carry a range of cargoes including 
containerized, break-bulk, reefer, LCL and project 
cargo . Consort transports cargo for a diverse 
customer base from domestic manufacturers 
and wholesalers to international liner carriers 
transshipping cargoes to outports .

In addition to owning and operating ships, 
Consort provides complementary depot services 
to customers at its Lae hub and is a shareholder 
and manager of stevedoring operations at five PNG 
ports. These stevedoring companies are partnerships 
between Consort and local landowner companies 
and provide significant employment opportunities 
for the nearby communities.

PROJECT CHARTERS

Consort provides short and long term vessel charters 
specializing in shallow water river shipping, and 
together with the Transport & Port Services Division 
develops, implements and supports intermodal 
logistics solutions linked to land based services 
such as road transport, cargo handling, storage, 
agencies, customs clearance, lay down areas and 
warehousing .

The year, as expected, saw a continuation of the challenges 
faced in 2016. Volumes remained largely static as the 
lack of foreign currency exacerbated a weak demand 

environment . Much of the freight is consumer staple goods 
and needs to be competitively priced to win and retain 
customers .

As planned in 2016, Consort sold three vessels in 2017, 
being the Madang Coast, Nakanai Coast, Goada Chief. In 
addition, the Papuan Coast charter expired and the vessel 
was sold on behalf of its owner. This fleet reduction was 
partially a result of the decision in 2016 to withdraw from 
international services to Australia and partially in response 
to a need to better match capacity with demand and 
reduce the inherent cost of excess capacity.

As a consequence of the on-going weakness in the Oil & 
Gas market, the Projects Charters fleet was under-utilised 
with the long term charter of the Kiunga Chief to OK Tedi 
being the main activity.  A portion of the Project Charters 
fleet was deployed with the liner trades, with surplus 
vessels remaining idle .

A significant loss of revenue was experienced in the first 
quarter of the year with the ‘Kiunga Chief’ off hire as a 
consequence of her grounding in 2016 and the need for 
major repairs. Over K4m in lost hire was a consequence.

The weak Oil & Gas market negatively impacted project 
vessel demand globally and resulted in a glut of project 
charter vessels internationally. This reduced demand 
was reflected in the annual external valuation of the 
fleet, with the carrying values of Consort project vessels 
negatively impacted. Accordingly, Consort has recorded an 
impairment of approximately K10m across the fleet.

It is the Company’s preference for vessels to visit Singapore 
for docking and, despite the time needed to get to and 
from the dock, this gives a noticeable improvement in both 
out-of-service time and docking expense . However, the 
lack of foreign currency will affect this strategy in 2018.

Despite the challenges of 2017, the underlying 
performance, particularly in the second half of the year, 
was encouraging. The economic environment going into 
2018 is expected to be just as difficult as 2017, Consort 
is committed to the continuing transition of tonnage and 
a schedule that will allow management to concentrate on 
delivering a consistent and reliable service to customers, 
resulting in greater market support .

Steamships Annual Report 2017       9

REVIEW OF OPERATIONS - LOGISTICS

PACIFIC TOWING

Pacific Towing is the leading provider of harbour 
towage and mooring services in PNG and offers 
coastal and ocean towage services .  A full member 
of the International Salvage Union, it also retains 
a fast responder salvage capability complemented 
by a comprehensive range of commercial dive 
services. As an ancillary service the company also 
provides life raft leasing and servicing and in 2017 
commenced the provision of oil spill response 
services . 

Pacific Towing is headquartered in Port Moresby 
and operates 11 tugs and 10 associated support 
vessels in five ports across PNG (Port Moresby, 
Lae, Rabaul, Kimbe and Madang). Dedicated 
harbour towage services extend to the Solomon 
Islands through a subsidiary company operating in 
Honiara .

Pacific Towing experienced a 16% increase in the number 
of harbour towing jobs undertaken in 2017 compared to 
2016 . However, revenue from routine non-harbour related 
jobs fell 9% this year. The combination of work gave rise to 
an overall increase in profits for the division enhanced by 
the settlement of receivables for non-routine salvage work .

In 2017 five salvages were responded to with three being 
settled during the year and one early in 2018.  During 
2017 income due on earlier salvages also settled .  

In 2017 Pacific Towing, in conjunction with sister company 
Swire Pacific Offshore, developed an oil spill response 
capability which was deployed in Jacksons Harbour soon 
after introduction .

People development remains a focus and work experience 
for Pacific Towing seafarers continues with Hong Kong 
Salvage & Towage and, more recently, with the Singapore 
based China Navigation Company Ltd. 

Pacific Towing is committed to localising key positions 
currently conducted by foreign crew. To this end, nine 
cadets are attending training at the Madang Maritime 
College with the intention of replacing all foreign crews 
starting in 2018. Training of the existing cadre of deck and 
engine officers continues with the college.  Pacific Towing’s 
divers likewise continue to attend the Professional Diving 
Academy in Sydney. 

The purchase of a pre-owned 50tbp tug, renamed Langila 
was completed in early 2017. This allowed the company 
to manage a series of dry-dockings required on the existing 
fleet whilst maintaining its fleet availability to support 
customer needs throughout the country.

Pacific Towing is in a strong position entering 2018. A 
relocation of the main Port Moresby base to the new wharf 
at Motukea is being planned to better serve its customers .

10       Steamships Annual Report 2017

REVIEW OF OPERATIONS - LOGISTICS

TRANSPORT & PORT SERVICES

EAST WEST TRANSPORT (EWT)

EWT is one of the country’s main multifaceted 
transport and logistics companies with a presence 
in Lae, Port Moresby, Kimbe, Rabaul, Madang, 
Wewak, Alotau and Kavieng. The division has 
a sizable fleet of prime movers, heavy trucks, 
light trucks, forklifts and reach stackers ranging 
from 2.5 to 45 tons in capacity. All equipment is 
supported by localised workshop facilities, safety 
and emergency vehicles and in house training 
programmes .

EWT operates across a wide spectrum of transport-
related activities including bulk fuel, containerised 
cargoes, sawdust and coffee along with break-bulk 
cargoes and depot services such as equipment hire, 
warehousing and yard storage. EWT also offers a 
licensed customs cargo clearance service in Lae 
and Port Moresby. The Division capitalises on its 
close relationship with its sister shipping company 
by offering specialised project solutions for the 
mining, oil and gas sectors .

JV PORT SERVICES (JVPS)

The group’s eight JVPS businesses offer a full range 
of stevedoring and handling facilities in the ports 
of Port Moresby, Lae, Alotau, Oro, Madang, Kimbe, 
Kavieng and Kiunga. With a fleet of specialist 
equipment the businesses handle all types of 
containers, as well as project cargo, break-bulk, 
RO-RO, LO-LO and grains. The stevedoring 
companies are joint ventures between Steamships 
and local landowner groups at the respective ports . 
Each joint venture employs a local workforce and is 
structured in a manner so that a share of earnings is 
able to filter back into the community.

The Transport and Port Services division showed resilience 
in the face of continuing soft operating conditions in 2017 
to meet expected financial performance.

Although competition remains intense in the transport 
sector, EWT was able to grow market share and revenue 
through a continued focus on customers who value 
safe and reliable operations . New business was won in 
Port Moresby, Rabaul, Kimbe and Alotau. Material fuel 
contracts have also been renewed or extended in 2017 . 

Joint Venture Port Services (JVPS) regional operations 
produced a slightly improved consolidated result. Port 
Services Ltd in Port Moresby was negatively impacted by 
lines  calling at the Motukea domestic wharf facilities, but 
Lae stevedoring operations remained stable . 

The announcement in September that PNG Ports 
Corporation had awarded the concession to operate 
the international terminals in Port Moresby and Lae to a 
new overseas operator from early 2018 will result in the 
cessation of business for three joint venture companies 
and the exit of JVPS from these ports. Staff redundancies 
will result and assets will be disposed of . Appropriate 
provisions have been made at the year end. Whilst 
disappointed, the division will focus on its regional 
operations and remain dedicated to serving its customers . 

The division moves into 2018 with a degree of confidence 
in the EWT transport business but some trepidation for 
the future prospects of JVPS. However, with a strong, well 
trained employee base and with a significant range of fit 
for purpose equipment, it remains highly compliant with 
industry best practice standards and is well placed to meet 
the challenges ahead .    

Steamships Annual Report 2017       11

REVIEW OF OPERATIONS - PROPERTY

CORAL SEA HOTELS

Coral Sea Hotels (CSH) operates seven hotel and 
apartment complexes offering full hotel facilities 
and serviced apartments as well as extensive 
meeting, conference and banqueting facilities . 

CSH is the largest hotel group in PNG, offering 
546 hotel rooms and 129 apartments. The Group 
comprises the Grand Papua Hotel, the Gateway 
Hotel and Apartments, the Ela Beach Hotel and 
Whittaker Apartments in Port Moresby; the Huon 
Gulf Hotel in Lae; the Highlander Hotel and 
Apartments in Mount Hagen and the Bird of 
Paradise Hotel in Goroka. 

CSH recovered from a disappointing 2016 with a solid 
performance this year, despite the continuing economic 
weakness affecting demand . Prudent cost management on 
soft revenue contributed to a satisfactory profit. 

Room and apartments occupancy and revenue fell 
year on year as rates remained under pressure and F&B 
revenues declined slightly on the prior year. The continuing 
impact of a slower economy on business travel, budget 
constraints on government department expenditure and 
reduced consumer discretionary spend all contributed 
to this challenging environment . Social unrest in Mt . 
Hagen during and after the national elections mid-year 
unfortunately impacted the Highlander Hotel.

Towards year end Port Moresby hotels benefited from pre 
APEC 2018 meetings as well as the Rugby League World 
Cup, held in November 2017. The opening of three new 
F&B outlets at the Gateway Hotel increased its profile and 
is providing a new destination for dining and entertainment 
near the airport .

Investment was maintained with the commencement of 
upgrading rooms at the Gateway and the Highlander. 
Bar & restaurant upgrades commenced at the Highlander 
and these will continue into 2018 and include new 
conference facilities. The upgrade of the Ela Beach Hotel 
was also completed . 

Significant investment continues in training and staff 
development in order to maintain a high quality of service 
offering for customers and CSH is shortly expected to 
receive a certificate of compliance to ASNZ Food Standards 
Code ( Australia & New Zealand) Australian Food Safety 
Standards. In addition, a number of World Luxury Hotel 
Awards in the Australasia and Oceania category were once 
again achieved in 2017 .

Plans for 2018 include the opening of the 40-bed 
Cassowary Hotel in Kiunga and completion of the 
extensions for the Highlander Hotel in Mt . Hagen and, 
beyond 2018, includes redevelopment of the Melanesian 
Hotel in Lae. The market is expected to remain competitive 
in 2018 but Port Moresby is expected to benefit from the 
run up to APEC in November .

12       Steamships Annual Report 2017

REVIEW OF OPERATIONS - PROPERTY

PACIFIC PALMS PROPERTY

Pacific Palms Property (PPP) is one of the largest 
and most dynamic property developers in PNG. The 
division currently holds property in the Residential, 
Commercial, Retail and Industrial sectors with 
building and land assets located in Port Moresby, 
Lae, Madang, Wewak, Goroka, Mt. Hagen, 
Popondetta and Rabaul . 

 PPP’s strategy of making investments of scale and 
quality in good locations continues to support 
stable revenues even though a current over-supply 
of property is evident in Port Moresby. PPP will 
continue its selective disposal of less strategic 
properties in 2018 .

The Port Moresby residential market has been affected by 
continuation of falling demand as the economy remains 
weak. There was also more over-supply delivered to the 
market . AS a retailer PPP rental rates however remained 
stable although overall occupancy declined slightly year 
on year in the older properties.

The commercial category has seen occupancy drop  
and rates have fallen due to weakness in the market .   
The Harbourside East & West Development however 

remains at 100% occupancy and this supported the 
decision to approve work to design the complementary 
mixed-use Harbourside South Development . 

The retail category experienced a reduced occupancy 
from the prior year. The two joint venture mixed retail 
and commercial centre in Madang and Mt . Hagen both 
completed in 2017 and have been well received by 
prospective tenants. The rebuild of the fire damaged 
Waigani Central supermarket has recently been completed 
and is expected to reopen around Easter 2018. The 
Downtown Plaza in Port Moresby is undergoing renovation 
which has unfortunately resulted in increased vacancies 
but the finished product in early 2018 will be attractive.

PPP remains a strong player in the industrial category. 
As with other categories, general market rates and 
occupancies have weakened in 2017 . PPP’s development 
of warehouses in the Baruni area continues to show 
vacancies but the market will inevitably pick up as 
various developments around the new international port 
at Motukea continue and the road development is now 
completed .

The focus in 2018 for PPP will be to continue its efforts 
to meet customer service expectations, maintain high 
maintenance standards and manage its portfolio of leases 
to maximize revenue.

Steamships Annual Report 2017       13

REVIEW OF OPERATIONS - COMMERCIAL

LAGA INDUSTRIES

Headquartered in Lae, Laga Industries is one 
of PNG’s largest consumer goods businesses 
manufacturing and distributing ice cream, vegetable 
oils, condiments, powdered drinks, snack foods and 
beverages . 

Brands include Gala Ice Cream, distributed from 
the “Gala Pala’s” found in most leading retail 
supermarkets; Highland Meadows and Laga 
Cooking Oils; Kools powdered drinks, Star of India 
Curry Powder, 111 Baking Powder and Instant Yeast 
and various other branded Specialty lines.  Laga 
Industries also manufactures the iconic LagaStik 
and bottles pure drinking water under the Tropical 
Oasis brand and various private labels . 

Operationally, the Division has a fully integrated 
production facility in Lae, a freezer and dry goods 
distribution centre and sales office in Port Moresby 
and sales offices in Madang, Wewak, Goroka, Mt 
Hagen, Kimbe, Kavieng, Kokopo/Rabaul and Buka.  
The Lae production facility is a large industrial site 
featuring the largest capacity state of the art Ice 
Cream production plant in the Pacific.

Laga Industries built on its 2016 growth with sales 
improvements in all segments as well as operational 
improvements across all aspects of the business .  

The Ice Cream plant continued to generate high product 
quality and pleasing production efficiencies, yielding solid 
margins. The new product range, Hamamas, performed 
strongly and the rationalisation of existing ice cream ranges 
combined with new product development will bolster 
performance in this sector. The business continued to invest 
in the iconic Gala brand, rolling out several new Gala 
Palas .  

Cooking Oil volumes continued to be strong and 
margins increased during the year as Laga improved its 
procurement practices and took strategic price increases . 

Specialty Lines sales were improved in 2017 and capital 
investment continues in this sector in order to drive 
improvements in production capacity and efficiency.  

The alcoholic beverages business, Trade Winds, was 
divested at the end of the year and focus now shifts to 
LagaStik and bottled water . Manufacturing and sale of 
a new LagaStik pouch format commenced in the fourth 
quarter with the intent of improving production volumes 
and margins .  

Operating profit improved in 2017, continuing the major 
turnaround since 2013 . 2018 is expected to see further 
improvement as Laga continues to grow its ice cream, 
beverages and specialty lines and to make improvements 
to its manufacturing practices .

14       Steamships Annual Report 2017

REVIEW OF OPERATIONS - COMMERCIAL

COLGATE PALMOLIVE

Steamships holds a 50 per cent beneficial interest in 
Colgate-Palmolive (PNG) Ltd (Colgate), a company 
that markets and distributes oral, personal, home 
and fabric care products in PNG. Joint control 
is exercised by the board however day to day 
management is performed by Colgate-Palmolive 
Australia .  

Colgate Palmolive, a PNG joint venture, saw improved 
trade volumes and sales revenue in Oral and Personal 
Care categories this year, although Home Care volume 
sales have slipped behind last year as some customers 
faced operational challenges and imported soap chip costs 
increased. Various initiatives are underway to bring Home 
Care volume sales back up in 2018 . Margins have held up 

well although input costs will continue to be a challenge . 

Continued improvement in in-store execution and an 
enhanced distribution presence in second tier markets 
had a positive impact on sales . Marketing focus was 
maintained on consumer education programmes in all 
media to promote the health benefits of oral and personal 
hygiene. The “Bright Smiles, Bright Futures” campaign 
for Colgate toothpaste had a direct interaction between 
Colgate Palmolive’s oral health ambassadors and 400,000 
consumers (the majority being school children) across 
PNG, up from 305,000 in 2016. 

2018 is expected to see a continuing tight consumer 
market, however, based on excellent sales execution, 
modest growth in sales and profit is anticipated.

Steamships Annual Report 2017       15

SUSTAINABILITY

Steamships remains committed to the principles of Sustainable Development. We will 
continue to conduct our activities in a manner that protects the environment, health, security 
and safety of our employees, contractors, and customers. We wish to excel as corporate 
citizens.

Staff remain the most valuable asset at Steamships . In 2017 
Steamships HR and Training commenced a journey of 
revision, with a clear focus on fairness and consistency in 
people management across all divisions as well as a focus 
on heightening the professional development of employees 
at all levels with a “Growth from Within” vision.  To 
support this vision, a Learning and Talent Development 
Manager was sourced and commenced at the later stage 
of 2017. Safety also remains as a priority and 2017 saw 
the introduction of an annual Steamships safety forum. 
Behavioural safety and its contribution to a strong safety 
culture was a focus .

Responsible and sustainable energy consumption remains 
an area of focus and work has commenced in 2017 to 
improve the monitoring and reporting of energy and water 
use, waste management, and environmental emissions 
at operational level. This work will result in a new and 
comprehensive reporting of environmental performance in 
2018 .

Steamships considers it essential to have a positive impact 
on the various communities in which it operates. This is 
done through an involvement in community engagement 
initiatives that prioritize four key areas: health, social 
welfare, education, sports and culture. These priority 
areas align with the development aspirations of Papua 
New Guinea with specific focus on; good health and 
wellbeing, quality education, reduced inequalities, and 
gender equality. The focus in 2017 was the newly launched 
Community Grant Programme.

Steamships’ sustainability performance aligns with the 
requirements of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), 
a worldwide corporate transparency initiative that 
Steamships has followed since 2013. The full GRI report 
and a comprehensive Sustainability Report are available on 
the Steamships website at www .steamships .com .pg .

16       Steamships Annual Report 2017

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Steamships and its Board are committed to achieving and demonstrating the highest 
standards of corporate governance and ethical behaviour, and they expect these standards 
from all employees. The Group believes that the maximisation of long term returns to 
shareholders is best achieved by acting in a socially responsible manner that recognises the 
interests of community stakeholders.

Steamships is committed to:

• 

• 

• 

 Providing high-quality products and services to meet 
customers’ needs;

 Maintaining high standards of business ethics and 
corporate governance;

 Ensuring the safety and wellbeing of employees and 
others with whom the Group has contact; and

• 

Promoting sustainable business practice .

Steamships reports against the Australian Stock Exchange 
(ASX) recommendations by addressing each key principle 
in the order it is listed in the ASX guidelines. Each section 

addressing a key principle includes references to relevant 
information that appears elsewhere in the 2017 Annual 
Report or on the Steamships’ website .

Steamships believes it complied with the Australian Stock 
Exchange Corporate Governance Principles (the third 
edition) during the twelve months ended 31 December 
2017, except where noted in the Corporate Governance 
Report .

Steamships’ Corporate Governance Report can be 
found at http://www.steamships.com.pg/aboutus/
corporategoverance

Steamships Annual Report 2017       17

STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

Note 

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

Continuing Operations 

Revenue 

Other income 

Operating expenses 

OPERATING PROFIT 

Finance (costs)/income - net 

Share of profit of associates and joint ventures 

PROFIT BEFORE INCOME TAX 

Income tax expense 

PROFIT FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS 

Other comprehensive income 

 705,687 

732,701 

15,244         

19,766 

(644,776) 

(611,794) 

3(a) 

3(a) 

3(b) 

3(e) 

4(b) 

    76,155 

 (13,469) 

      7,525 

    70,211 

5(a) 

  (32,621) 

    37,590 

- 

140,673 

(21,987) 

5,865 

124,551 

(35,677) 

88,874 

- 

13,051 

2,828 

(2,031) 

13,848 

72 

- 

13,920 

(205) 

13,715 

- 

31,691

2,726

(1,805)

32,612

72

-

32,684

(801)

31,883

-

TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME FOR THE YEAR 

37,590    

88,874 

13,715 

31,883

Attributable to: 

Non-controlling interests 

Shareholders 

(3,926)        

   41,516 

   37,590 

4,664 

84,210 

88,874 

- 

13,715 

13,715 

-

31,883

31,883

Basic and Diluted Earnings per share continuing (toea) 

3(f) 

134t 

272t  

These Statements of Comprehensive Income are to be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

18       Steamships Annual Report 2017

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

Share 
Capital 

Retained 
Earnings 

Other 

Total Capital  Controlling  

Reserves  & Reserves 

Interest 

Total 
Equity

Non-

BALANCE AT 1 JANUARY 2016 

24,200 

773,881 

(8,994) 

789,087 

47,515 

836,602

Profit for the year 

Dividends paid 2016 

- 

- 

84,210 

(40,291) 

- 

- 

84,210 

4,664 

88,874

(40,291) 

(3,348) 

(43,639)

BALANCE AT 31 DECEMBER 2016  

24,200 

817,800 

(8,994) 

833,006 

48,831 

881,837

Profit for the year 

Dividends paid 2017 

- 

- 

     41,516 

   (32,558) 

- 

- 

41,516 

(3,926) 

37,590

(32,558) 

(8,715) 

(41,273)

BALANCE AT 31 DECEMBER 2017 

24,200 

826,758 

(8,994) 

841,964 

36,190 

878,154

This Statement of Changes in Equity is to be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

No Statement of Changes in Equity is presented for the Parent Entity as the only movement in equity is represented by the retained 
earnings as shown in the statement of comprehensive income and dividend movements as reflected above for the Group.

There is no other comprehensive income.

Steamships Annual Report 2017       19

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
STATEMENTS OF FINANCIAL POSITION
Steamships Trading Company Limited  As At 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

Current assets 
Cash and cash equivalents 
Trade and other receivables 
Inventories 
Income tax receivable 

Non-current assets 
Property, plant and equipment 
Investment properties 
Investments in related companies  
Loans to related companies 
Intangible assets 
Deferred tax assets 

TOTAL ASSETS 

Current liabilities 
Trade and other payables 
Provisions for other liabilities and charges 
Loans from related companies 
Loan from minority shareholder 
Borrowings 
Income tax payable 

Non-current liabilities 
Deferred tax liabilities 
Provisions for other liabilities and charges 
Borrowings 

TOTAL LIABILITIES 
NET ASSETS 

EQUITY 
Issued capital 
Reserves  
Capital and reserves attributable to the
Company’s shareholders 
Non-controlling interests 
TOTAL EQUITY 

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

Note 

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

6 
7 
8 
5(e) 

10 
11 
4(a) 
9 
12 
5(c) 

13 
14 
9 
15 
15 
5(e) 

5(c) 
14 
15 

16 

12,021 
161,655 
47,333 
- 
221,009 

628,127 
368,998 
67,196 
73,791 
80,002 
30,250 
1,248,364 
1,469,373   

108,170 
6,250 
54,512 
19,503 
31,718 
1,407 
221,560 

22,332 
12,040 
335,287 
369,659 
591,219 
878,154 

24,200 
817,764 

841,964 
36,190 
878,154 

36,685 
134,822 
41,128 
716 
213,351 

682,917 
385,974 
66,445 
70,850 
80,491 
36,680 
1,323,357 
1,536,708 

98,639 
11,510 
35,452 
32,259 
6,786 
- 
184,646 

30,982 
11,243 
428,000 
470,225 
654,871 
881,837 

24,200 
808,806 

833,006 
48,831 
881,837 

- 
435 
- 
85 
520 

24,545 
- 
208,163 
5,712 
- 
268 
238,688 
239,208 

- 
- 
218,274 
- 
- 
- 
218,274 

- 
- 
- 
- 
218,274 
20,934 

24,200 
(3,266) 

20,934 
- 
20,934 

404
407
-
-
811

25,934
-
208,163
5,712
-
245
240,054
240,865

680
-
200,404
-
-
4
201,088

-
-
-
-
201,088
39,777

24,200
15,577

39,777
-
39,777

These Statements of Financial Position are to be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

For and on behalf of the Board:

29 March 2018 

G.L. Cundle 
Chairman 

P.W. Langslow
Managing Director

20       Steamships Annual Report 2017

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
3,421

(590)

72

-

(256)

2,647

(311)

-

-

STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

Note 

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES 

Receipts from customers 

721,778 

783,668 

5,029 

Payments to suppliers and employees 

(573,454) 

(531,244) 

(3,551) 

Interest received 

Interest and other finance costs paid 

Income tax paid 

Net cash provided by operating activities 

4,639 

(18,109) 

(32,825) 

12,248 

(34,235) 

(39,376) 

102,029 

191,061 

5(e) 

18 

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES 

Purchase of property, plant & equipment 

(54,098) 

(109,478) 

Proceeds from sales of property, plant & equipment 

Proceeds on sale of investment  

Loans repaid by associated companies 

10,608 

15,716 

3,361 

24,241 

- 

72 

- 

(317) 

1,233 

- 

- 

- 

147,343 

17,870 

17,812

Investment in associates & joint ventures 

- 

(24,143) 

- 

(12,803)

Dividends received 

6,774 

20 

Net cash (used in)/provided by investing activities 

(17,639) 

37,983 

13,051 

30,921 

31,691

36,389

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES 

Proceeds from borrowings 

Repayments of borrowings 

Dividends paid 

- 

38,000 

(84,373) 

(186,903) 

- 

- 

-

-

(41,273) 

(43,639) 

(32,558) 

(40,291)

Net cash used in financing activities 

(125,646) 

(192,542) 

(32,558) 

(40,291)

NET (DECREASE)/INCREASE IN CASH HELD 

NET CASH AT BEGINNING OF THE YEAR 

NET CASH AT END OF THE YEAR 

CASH COMPRISES: 

Cash and cash equivalents 

Bank overdrafts 

6 

15 

(41,256) 

29,899  

(11,357) 

12,021 

(23,378) 

(11,357) 

36,502 

(6,603)  

29,899 

36,685 

(6,786) 

29,899 

(404) 

404 

- 

- 

- 

- 

(1,256)

1,660

404

404

-

404

These Statements of Cash Flows are to be read in conjunction with the accompanying notes.

Steamships Annual Report 2017       21

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

1. 

 Summary of significant accounting policies 

 The Company is a company limited by shares and is 
incorporated and domiciled in Papua New Guinea. 

 These Group consolidated financial statements were 
authorised for issue by the Board of Directors on 
29 March 2018 .

 The Board of Directors has the power to amend the 
financial statements after their issue.

(a)  Basis of preparation

 The consolidated financial statements of the 
Group have been prepared in accordance with 
International Financial Reporting Standards 
(IFRS). The consolidated financial statements 
have been prepared under the historical cost 
convention as modified by certain financial assets 
and liabilities at fair value through profit and loss, 
and assets held for sale measured at fair value 
less costs of disposal .

(i) 

 Standards, amendment and interpretations 
effective in the year ended 31 December 2017

 The following standards, amendments and 
interpretations to existing standards became 
applicable for the first time during the accounting 
period beginning 1 January 2017.

• 

• 

• 

 Amendments to IAS 7 ‘Statement of Cash 
Flows’ on disclosure initiative. These 
amendments to IAS 7 introduce an additional 
disclosure that will enable users of financial 
statements to evaluate changes in liabilities 
arising from financing activities.

 Amendments to IAS 12 ‘Income Taxes’ 
on recognition of deferred tax assets for 
unrealised losses. These amendments on 
the recognition of deferred tax assets for 
unrealised losses clarify how to account for 
deferred tax assets related to debt instruments 
measured at fair value . 

 Annual improvements 2014 – 2016 - IFRS 
12. This amendment clarifies that the 
disclosure requirements of IFRS 12 are 
applicable to interests in entities classified as 
held for sale except for summarised financial 
information .

(ii)   Standards, amendments and interpretations 

issued but not yet effective for the year ended 31 
December 2017 or adopted early 

 The following standards, amendments and 
interpretations to existing standards have been 
published and are mandatory for the entity’s 
accounting periods beginning on or after 1 

22       Steamships Annual Report 2017

January 2018 or later periods, but the entity has 
not early adopted them:

• 

• 

• 

 Amendments to IFRS 2 ‘Share based 
payments’ on clarifying how to account 
for certain types of share-based payment 
transactions (effective 1 January 2018). 
This amendment clarifies the measurement 
basis for cash-settled, share-based payments 
and the accounting for modifications that 
change an award from cash-settled to equity-
settled .  It also introduces an exception to 
the principles in IFRS 2 that will require 
an award to be treated as if it was wholly 
equity-settled, where an employer is obliged 
to withhold an amount for the employee’s 
tax obligation associated with a share-based 
payment and pay that amount to the tax 
authority.

 IFRS 9, ‘Financial Instruments’ (effective 1 
January 2018) replaces the guidance in IAS 
39 with a standard that is less complex and 
principles based. The new standard simplifies 
the model for classifying and recognising 
financial instruments and aligns hedge 
accounting more closely with common risk 
management practices . Changes in own 
credit risk in respect of liabilities designated 
at fair value through profit or loss shall now 
be presented within OCI; this change can be 
adopted early without adopting IFRS 9. IFRS 
9’s new impairment model is a move away 
from IAS 39’s incurred credit loss approach 
to an expected credit loss model . Earlier 
recognition of impairment losses is likely to 
result and for entities with significant lending 
activities, an overhaul of related systems and 
processes will be needed. The Group does 
not expect IFRS 9 to have a significant impact 
on current financial instrument classification 
and measurement practice .

 IFRS 15 ‘Revenue from contracts with 
customers’ (effective 1 January 2018) is a 
converged standard from the IASB and FASB 
on revenue recognition and replaces IAS 11 
and IAS 18. The new standard is based on the 
principle that revenue is recognised when 
control of a good or service transfers to a 
customer – so the notion of control replaces 
the existing notion of risks and rewards . 

 The entity will have to adopt a new 5-step 
process for the recognition of revenue:

-  identify contracts with customers

-    identify the separate performance 

obligations 

 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

• 

• 

-   determine the transaction price of the 

contract

-   allocate the transaction price to each of the 

separate performance obligations, and

-   recognise the revenue as each performance 

obligation is satisfied. 

  Areas expected to be impacted by the change 
in accounting standard include the Group’s 
recognition of cargo shipments .

 Amendments to IFRS 15 (effective 1 January 
2018). These amendments comprise 
clarifications of the guidance on identifying 
performance obligations, accounting for 
licenses of intellectual property and the 
principal versus agent assessment (gross 
versus net revenue presentation).

 IFRS 16, ‘Leases’ (effective 1 January 2019) 
replaces the guidance in IAS 17 and will 
have a significant impact on accounting by 
lessees. The previous distinction under IAS 
17 between finance leases and operating 
leases for lessees has been removed . IFRS 16 
now requires a lessee to recognise a lease 
liability representing future lease payments 
and a ‘right-of-use asset’ for virtually all lease 
contracts. There is an optional exemption 
for certain short-term leases and leases of 
low-value assets . Under IFRS 16, a contract 
is, or contains, a lease if the contract conveys 
the right to control the use of an identified 
asset for a period of time in exchange for 
consideration. The Group does not expect 
IFRS 16 to have a significant impact.

• 

 Amendments to IFRS 4, ‘Insurance contracts’ 
(effective 1 January 2018) regarding 
implementation of IFRS 9. These amendments 
introduce tw0 approaches: an overlay 
approach and a deferral approach. The 
amended standard will:

-   give all companies that issue insurance 

contracts the option to recognise in OCI, 
rather than profit or loss, the volatility that 
could arise when IFRS 9 is applied before 
the new insurance contracts standard is 
issued; and

-   give companies whose activities are 

predominantly connected with insurance 
an optional temporary exemption from 
applying IFRS 9 until 2021, in which case 
they will continue to apply IAS 39.

• 

 Amendments to IAS 40, ‘Investment property’ 
(effective 1 January 2018) relating to transfers 

• 

• 

• 

• 

of investment property. These amendments 
clarify that to transfer to, or from, investment 
properties there must be a change in use . 
To conclude if a property has changed use 
there should be an assessment of whether the 
property meets the definition. This change 
must be supported by evidence.

 Annual improvements 2014 – 2016 makes 
minor changes to IFRS 1 and IAS 28 (effective 
1 January 2018).

 IFRIC 22, ‘Foreign currency transactions 
and advance consideration’ (effective 1 
January 2018) addresses foreign currency 
transactions or parts of transactions where 
there is consideration that is denominated 
or priced in a foreign currency. The 
interpretation provides guidance for when a 
single payment/receipt is made as well as for 
situations where multiple payments/receipts 
are made .

 IFRS 17 ‘Insurance contracts” (effective 1 
January 2021) replaces IFRS 4. IFRS 17 will 
fundamentally change the accounting by 
all entities that issue insurance contracts 
and investment contacts with discretionary 
participation features .

 IFRIC 23, ‘Uncertainty over income tax 
treatments’ (effective 1 January 2019) clarifies 
how the recognition and measurement 
requirements of IAS 12 ‘Income Taxes’ are 
applied where there is uncertainty over 
income tax positions . IFRIC 23 explains 
how to recognise and measure deferred 
and current income tax assets and liabilities 
where there is uncertainty over a tax 
treatment .

• 

 Annual improvements 2015 – 2017 makes 
minor changes to IFRS 3, IFRS 11, IAS 12 and 
IAS 23 (effective 1 January 2019).

 There are no other standards that are not yet 
effective and that would be expected to have a 
material impact on the Group in the current or 
future reporting periods and on foreseeable future 
transactions .

(b)  Foreign currency

 The Company’s functional and presentation 
currency is the Papua New Guinea Kina.  
Transactions in foreign currencies have been 
translated into the functional currency at rates 
ruling at the date of the transaction .  Amounts 
payable to and by the Group in foreign currencies 
have been translated to the functional currency 

Steamships Annual Report 2017       23

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

at rates of exchange ruling at the year end. Gains 
and losses arising from movements in foreign 
exchange rates are recognised in the statement of 
comprehensive income when they arise.

(c)  Principles of consolidation

(i)  Subsidiaries

 The consolidated financial statements incorporate 
the assets and liabilities of all subsidiaries of 
Steamships Trading Company Limited as at 31 
December 2017 and the results of all subsidiaries 
for the year then ended. Steamships Trading 
Company Limited and its subsidiaries together 
are referred to as the Group or the consolidated 
entity.

 Subsidiaries are all entities over which the Group 
has control, that is when the Group is exposed 
to, or has rights to, variable returns from its 
involvement with the entity and has the ability 
to affect those returns through its power over the 
entity. 

 Subsidiaries are fully consolidated from the date 
on which control is transferred to the Group. 
They are de-consolidated from the date that 
control ceases .

 The acquisition method of accounting is used to 
account for business combinations by the Group 
(refer to note 1d).

 Intercompany transactions, balances and 
unrealised gains on transactions between group 
companies are eliminated . Unrealised losses 
are also eliminated unless the transaction 
provides evidence of the impairment of the asset 
transferred . Accounting policies of subsidiaries 
have been changed where necessary to ensure 
consistency with the policies adopted by the 
Group.

 Non-controlling interests in the results and 
equity of subsidiaries are shown separately in 
the consolidated statement of comprehensive 
income, statement of changes in equity and 
balance sheet respectively.

(ii)  Associates

 Associates are all entities over which the Group 
has significant influence but not control generally 
accompanying a shareholding of between 20% 
and 50% of the voting rights. Investments in 
associates are accounted for using the equity 
method of accounting, after initially being 
recognised at cost. The Group’s investment 
in associates includes goodwill identified on 
acquisition (refer to note 12).

24       Steamships Annual Report 2017

 The Group’s share of its associates’ post-
acquisition profits or losses is recognised in profit 
or loss, and its share of post-acquisition other 
comprehensive income is recognised in other 
comprehensive income. The cumulative post-
acquisition movements are adjusted against the 
carrying amount of the investment. Dividends 
receivable from associates are recognised 
as a reduction in the carrying amount of the 
investment .

 When the Group’s share of losses in an associate 
equals or exceeds its interest in the associate, 
including any other unsecured long-term 
receivables, the Group does not recognise further 
losses, unless it has incurred obligations or made 
payments on behalf of the associate.

 Unrealised gains on transactions between the 
Group and its associates are eliminated to the 
extent of the Group’s interest in the associates. 
Unrealised losses are also eliminated unless the 
transaction provides evidence of an impairment 
of the asset transferred . Accounting policies of 
associates have been changed where necessary to 
ensure consistency with the policies adopted by 
the Group.

(iii) Joint ventures

Joint venture entities

 The interest in a joint venture is accounted for 
using the equity method after initially being 
recognised at cost as for associates .

(iv) Changes in ownership interests

 The Group treats transactions with non-
controlling interests that do not result in a loss 
of control as transactions with equity owners 
of the Group. A change in ownership interest 
results in an adjustment between the carrying 
amounts of the controlling and non-controlling 
interests to reflect their relative interests in the 
subsidiary. Any difference between the amount 
of the adjustment to non-controlling interests and 
any consideration paid or received is recognised 
in a separate reserve within equity attributable to 
shareholders .

 When the Group ceases to have control or 
significant influence, any retained interest in 
the entity is re-measured to its fair value with 
the change in carrying amount recognised 
in profit or loss. This fair value becomes the 
initial carrying amount for the purposes of 
subsequently accounting for the retained interest 
as an associate or financial asset. In addition, 
any amounts previously recognised in other 
comprehensive income in respect of that entity 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

are accounted for as if the Group had directly 
disposed of the related assets or liabilities. This 
may mean that amounts previously recognised in 
other comprehensive income are reclassified to 
profit or loss.

 If the ownership interest in a jointly-controlled 
entity or an associate is reduced but significant 
influence is retained, only a proportionate share 
of the amounts previously recognised in other 
comprehensive income are reclassified to profit 
or loss where appropriate .

(d)  Business combinations

 The acquisition method of accounting is used to 
account for all business combinations, regardless 
of whether equity instruments or other assets 
are acquired. The consideration transferred for 
the acquisition of a subsidiary comprises the 
fair values of the assets transferred, the liabilities 
incurred and the equity interests issued by 
the Group. The consideration transferred also 
includes the fair value of any asset or liability 
resulting from a contingent consideration 
arrangement and the fair value of any pre-existing 
equity interest in the subsidiary. Acquisition-
related costs are expensed as incurred . 
Identifiable assets acquired and liabilities and 
contingent liabilities assumed in a business 
combination are measured initially at their fair 
values at the acquisition date . On an acquisition-
by-acquisition basis, the Group recognises any 
non-controlling interest in the acquiree either 
at fair value or at the non-controlling interest’s 
proportionate share of the acquiree’s net 
identifiable assets.

 The excess of the consideration transferred, the 
amount of any non-controlling interest in the 
acquiree and the acquisition date fair value 
of any previous equity interest in the acquiree 
over the fair value of the Group’s share of the 
net identifiable assets acquired is recorded as 
goodwill . If those amounts are less than the 
fair value of the net identifiable assets of the 
subsidiary acquired and the measurement of all 
amounts has been reviewed, the difference is 
recognised directly in determining profit or loss 
as a bargain purchase .

 Where settlement of any part of cash 
consideration is deferred, the amounts payable in 
the future are discounted to their present value as 
at the date of exchange. The discount rate used 
is the entity’s incremental borrowing rate, being 
the rate at which a similar borrowing could be 
obtained from an independent financier under 

comparable terms and conditions .

 Contingent consideration is classified either as 
equity or a financial liability. Amounts classified 
as a financial liability are subsequently re-
measured to fair value with changes in fair value 
recognised in profit or loss.

(e)  Revenue recognition

 The Group recognises revenue when the amount 
of revenue can be reliably measured, it is 
probable that future economic benefits will flow 
to the entity and specific criteria have been met 
for each of the Group’s activities as described 
below. The Group bases its estimates on historical 
results, taking into consideration the type of 
customer, the type of transaction and the specifics 
of each arrangement . 

 Revenue is recognised for the major business 
activities as follows: 

 Sale of goods - Revenue from the sale of goods 
is recognised when the entity sells a product to 
the customer and all significant risks and rewards 
have been transferred .

 Services - Service revenue is recognised when 
the service has been rendered .

 Freight - Freight revenue is recognised as the 
service has been provided .   

 Interest income - Interest income is recognised 
using the effective interest method .

 Dividend income - Dividends are recognised 
when the right to receive payment is established.

 Rental income - Rental income is recognised on 
a straight line basis over the term of the lease .

(f)  Income tax

 The income tax expense or benefit for the period 
is the tax payable on the current period’s taxable 
income based on the notional income tax rate 
adjusted by changes in deferred tax assets and 
liabilities attributable to temporary differences 
between the tax bases of assets and liabilities 
and their carrying amounts in the financial 
statements, and to unused tax losses .

 Deferred income tax is provided in full on 
temporary differences arising between the tax 
bases of assets and liabilities and their carrying 
amounts in the financial statements. Currently 
enacted tax rates are used in the determination 
of deferred income tax .  Deferred tax assets are 
recognised to the extent that it is probable that 
future taxable profit will be available, against 
which the temporary differences can be utilised.

Steamships Annual Report 2017       25

 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

(g)  Cash and cash equivalents

 For the purpose of the statement of cash flows, 
cash and cash equivalents includes cash on hand, 
deposits held at call with banks  and Treasury 
Bills with a maturity less than 90 days. Bank 
overdrafts are shown in current liabilities in the 
statement of financial position.   

(h)  Receivables

 Trade receivables are amounts due from 
customers for merchandise sold or services 
provided in the ordinary course of business.  
There are classified as current assets if collection 
is expected within one year.  Receivables are 
recognised initially at fair value and subsequently 
measured at amortised cost using the effective 
interest method, less provision for impairment .  A 
provision is established when there is objective 
evidence that the Group will not be able to 
collect all amounts due according to the original 
terms of receivables .

(i) 

Inventories

 Inventories are valued at the lower of cost 
and net realisable value .  In general, cost is 
determined on the weighted average basis and, 
where appropriate, includes a proportion of 
variable overhead expenditure . Net realisable 
value is the estimated selling price in the ordinary 
course of business, less applicable variable 
selling costs .

(j)  Non-current assets held for resale 

 Non-current assets (or disposal groups) are 
classified as held for sale if their carrying amount 
will be recovered principally through a sale 
transaction rather than through continuing use 
and a sale is considered highly probable. They 
are measured at the lower of their carrying 
amount and fair value less costs to sell, except 
for assets such as deferred tax assets, assets 
arising from employee benefits, financial 
assets and contractual rights under insurance 
contracts, which are specifically exempt from this 
requirement .

 An impairment loss is recognised for any initial or 
subsequent write down of the asset (or disposal 
group) to fair value less costs to sell. A gain is 
recognised for any subsequent increases in fair 
value less costs to sell of an asset (or disposal 
group), but not in excess of any cumulative 
impairment loss previously recognised. A gain or 
loss not previously recognised by the date of the 
sale of the non-current asset (or disposal group) is 
recognised at the date of derecognition . 

26       Steamships Annual Report 2017

 Non-current assets (including those that are 
part of a disposal group) are not depreciated or 
amortised while they are classified as held for 
sale . Interest and other expenses attributable to 
the liabilities of a disposal group classified as 
held for sale continue to be recognised .

 Non-current assets classified as held for sale 
and the assets of a disposal group classified as 
held for sale are presented separately from the 
other assets in the balance sheet. The liabilities 
of a disposal group classified as held for sale are 
presented separately from other liabilities in the 
balance sheet .

 A discontinued operation is a component of the 
entity that has been disposed of or is classified 
as held for sale and that represents a separate 
major line of business or geographical area of 
operations, is part of a single coordinated plan 
to dispose of such a line of business or area of 
operations, or is a subsidiary acquired exclusively 
with a view to resale. The results of discontinued 
operations are presented separately in the income 
statement .

(k)  Financial assets

Classification

 The Group classifies its financial assets in the 
following categories: at fair value through profit 
or loss and loans and receivables. The Group 
does not hold any held to maturity investments 
or available for sale financial assets. The 
classification depends on the purpose for which 
the financial assets were acquired. Management 
determines the classification of its financial assets 
at initial recognition .

(i)	 	Financial	assets	at	fair	value	through	profit	or	

loss

 Financial assets at fair value through profit or loss 
are financial assets held for trading. A financial 
asset is classified in this category if acquired 
principally for the purpose of selling in the short 
term . Derivatives are also categorised as held 
for trading unless they are designated as hedges. 
Assets in this category are classified as current 
assets .         

(ii)  Loans and receivables

 Loans and receivables are non-derivative 
financial assets with fixed or determinable 
payments that are not quoted in an active market. 
They are included in current assets, except 
for maturities greater than 12 months after the 
balance sheet date. These are classified as non-
current assets. The Group’s loans and receivables 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

comprise ‘trade and other receivables’ and ‘cash 
and cash equivalents’ in the balance sheet .

Recognition and measurement

 Regular purchases and sales of financial assets 
are recognised on the trade date – the date on 
which the Group commits to purchase or sell the 
asset .

 Financial assets carried at fair value through 
profit or loss are initially recognised at fair 
value, and transaction costs are expensed in 
the income statement . Financial assets are 
derecognised when the rights to receive cash 
flows from the investments have expired or have 
been transferred and the Group has transferred 
substantially all risks and rewards of ownership. 
Loans and receivables are carried at amortised 
cost using the effective interest method .

 Gains or losses arising from changes in the fair 
value of the ‘financial assets at fair value through 
profit or loss’ category are presented in the 
income statement within ‘other (losses)/gains – 
net’ in the period in which they arise. Dividend 
income from financial assets at fair value 
through profit or loss is recognised in the income 
statement as part of other income when the 
Group’s right to receive payments is established.

 The Group assesses at each balance sheet date 
whether there is objective evidence that a 
financial asset or a group of financial assets is 
impaired . Impairment testing of trade receivables 
is described in note 1(h).

(l)  Property, plant and equipment

 All property, plant and equipment are initially 
recorded at cost. Borrowing costs directly 
attributable to the acquisition or construction of 
qualifying assets are added to the cost of those 
assets until the assets are ready for their intended 
use . Depreciation is calculated on the straight-
line method to write off the cost of each asset 
to their residual values using the below rates 
which is reflective of their estimated useful life as 
follows:

Land and buildings 
Ships 
Plant and fittings 

  Motor vehicles 

0 - 10% 
5 - 10%
10 - 33%
20 - 33%

 Where the carrying amount of an asset is greater 
than its estimated recoverable amount, it is 
written down immediately to its recoverable 
amount. Gains and losses on disposal of property, 
plant and equipment are determined by reference 
to their carrying amount and are taken into 
account in determining operating profit. 

 Subsequent costs are included in the asset’s 
carrying amount or recognised as a separate 
asset, as appropriate, only when it is probable 
that future economic benefits associated with the 
item will flow to the Group and the cost of the 
item can be measured reliably. All other repairs 
and maintenance are charged to the statements 
of comprehensive income during the financial 
period in which they are incurred.

(m)  Investment properties

 Investment properties include land held for 
long-term capital appreciation and buildings 
leased out under operating leases .  Properties 
that comprise a portion held to earn rentals 
and a portion for own use or occupation will 
only be classified as investment property if 
an insignificant portion is held for own use of 
occupation . Investment properties are recognised 
when it is probable that future economic benefits 
associated with the property will flow to the 
Group and the cost of the investment property 
can be reliably measured. Investment properties 
are stated at cost less accumulated depreciation 
and accumulated impairment losses. Transaction 
costs are included on initial measurement .  
Borrowing costs directly attributable to the 
acquisition or construction of qualifying assets 
are added to the cost of those assets until the 
assets are ready for their intended use. The fair 
values of investment properties are disclosed 
in the Note 11. These are assessed using 
internationally accepted valuation methods, 
such as taking comparable properties as a guide 
to current market prices or by applying the 
discounted cash flow method. Like property, 
plant and equipment, investment properties 
are normally depreciated using the straight-line 
method over similar useful lives .

(n)  Goodwill

 Goodwill represents the excess of the cost of 
an acquisition over the fair value of the Group’s 
share of the net identifiable assets of the acquired 
business at the date of acquisition . 

 Goodwill is capitalised and assessed for 
impairment annually or more frequently if 
events or changes in circumstances indicate 
a potential for impairment and is carried at 
cost less impairment losses. Any impairment is 
recognised immediately as an expense and is not 
subsequently reversed. 

 Gains and losses on the disposal of an entity 
include the carrying amount of goodwill relating 
to the entity sold. Goodwill is allocated to cash-
generating units for the purpose of impairment 
testing .

Steamships Annual Report 2017       27

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

(o)  Trade and other payables

 These amounts represent obligations to pay for 
goods and services that have been acquired in 
the ordinary course of business from suppliers.  
They are classified as current liabilities if payment 
is due within one year or less.  Trade payables are 
recognised initially at fair value and subsequently 
measured at amortised cost using the effective 
interest method. The amounts are unsecured and 
are usually paid within 30 days of recognition.

(p)  Provisions

 Provisions are recognised when the Group has a 
present legal or constructive obligation as a result 
of past events; it is probable that an outflow of 
resource embodying economic benefits will be 
required to settle the obligation; and a reliable 
estimate of the amount of the obligation can be 
made .

 A liability for annual leave is recognised and 
measured at the amount of unpaid leave at 
amounts expected to be paid to settle the present 
entitlements.  A liability for long service leave is 
recognised taking into consideration expected 
future wage and salary levels, experience of 
employee departures and periods of service, 
discounted to present values .

 A provision for estimated ship dry docking 
costs is only recognised where the Group has a 
contractual obligation under a Bare Boat charter 
agreement from a third party.  Dry docking 
costs relating to ships not under third party long 
term charter agreements are only recognised as 
incurred, and are capitalised to the extent that the 
previously assessed economic benefits associated 
with the asset are restored .

(q)  Employee benefits

(i)  Short term obligations

 Liabilities for wages and salaries, including 
non-monetary benefits, annual leave and 
accumulating sick leave expected to be settled 
within 12 months after the end of the period in 
which the employees render the related service 
are recognised in respect of employees’ services 
up to the end of the reporting period and are 
measured at the amounts expected to be paid 
when the liabilities are settled. The liability 
for annual leave and accumulating sick leave 
is recognised in the provision for employee 
benefits. All other short term employee benefit 
obligations are presented as payables.

(ii)	 Other	long-term	employee	benefit	obligations

 The liability for long service leave and annual 

28       Steamships Annual Report 2017

leave which is not expected to be settled within 
12 months after the end of period in which 
the employees render the related service is 
recognised in the provision for the employee 
benefits and measured as the present value of 
expected future payments to be made in respect 
of services provided by employees up to the end 
of the reporting period using the projected unit 
credit method . Consideration is given to expected 
future wage and salary levels, experience of 
employee departures and periods of service. 
Expected future payments are discounted using 
the market yields at the end of the reporting 
period on national government bonds with terms 
to maturity and currency that match, as closely as 
possible, the estimated future cash outflows.

(iii)	Termination	benefits	

 Termination benefits are payable when 
employment is terminated by the Group before 
the normal retirement date, or whenever an 
employee accepts voluntary redundancy 
in exchange for these benefits. The Group 
recognises termination benefits at the earlier 
of the following dates: (a) when the Group can 
no longer withdraw the offer of those benefits; 
and (b) when the entity recognises costs for a 
restructuring that is within the scope of IAS 37 
and involves the payment of termination benefits. 
In the case of an offer made to encourage 
voluntary redundancy, the termination benefits 
are measured based on the number of employees 
expected to accept the offer. Benefits falling 
due more than 12 months after the end of the 
reporting period are discounted to their present 
value .

(r)  Borrowings

 Borrowings are recognised initially at fair value, 
net of any transaction costs incurred, and are 
subsequently measured at amortised cost using 
the effective interest method .  Borrowings are 
classified as current liabilities unless the Group 
has an unconditional right to defer settlement of 
the liability for at least 12 months after the end of 
the reporting period .

(s)  Impairment of assets

 Assets that have an indefinite useful life are 
not subject to amortisation and are tested 
annually for impairment. Assets that are subject 
to depreciation or amortisation are reviewed 
for impairment whenever events or changes in 
circumstances indicate that the carrying amount 
may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is 
recognised for the amount by which the asset’s 
carrying value exceeds its fair value less costs to 
sell .  For the purpose of assessing impairment, 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

assets are grouped at the lowest levels for which 
there are separately identifiable cash flows (cash 
generating units).

over the lease period so as to produce a constant 
periodic rate of interest on the remaining balance 
of the liability for each period.

(t)  Borrowing costs

 Borrowing costs incurred for the construction 
of qualifying assets, which are assets that take a 
substantial period of time to get ready for their 
intended use or sale, are capitalised during the 
period of time that is required to complete and 
prepare the asset for its intended use or sale .  
Other borrowing costs are expensed .

 The capitalisation rate used to determine the 
amount of borrowing costs to be capitalised is the 
weighted average interest rate applicable to the 
entity’s outstanding borrowings during the year, 
in this case 4.6% (2016 – 4.5%).

(u)  Segment reporting

 Operating segments are reported in a manner 
consistent with the internal reporting provided 
to the chief operating decision maker. The chief 
operating decision maker, who is responsible for 
allocating resources and assessing performance 
of the operating segments, has been identified as 
the Strategic Steering Committee .

(v)  Earnings per share

 Basic earnings per share is calculated by dividing 
the profit attributable to equity holders of the 
Group, by the weighted average number of 
ordinary shares outstanding during the financial 
year. There are no potential ordinary shares on 
issue and hence the diluted earnings per share is 
equal to the basic earnings per share .

(w)  Goods and services tax (GST)

 Revenues, expenses and assets are recognised 
net of the amount of associated GST. Receivables 
and payables are stated inclusive of GST. The 
amount of GST recoverable from, or payable 
to, the Taxation authority is included with other 
receivables or payables in the balance sheet.

(x)  Leases

 Leases under which the Group assumes 
substantially all the risks and rewards incidental 
to ownership have been classified as finance 
leases and are capitalised. The asset and 
corresponding liability are recorded at inception 
of the lease at the fair value of the leased asset, 
at amounts equivalent to the discounted present 
value of minimum lease payments including 
residual values .

 The finance cost is charged to the profit or loss 

 Capitalised leased assets are depreciated over 
their expected lives in accordance with rates 
established for other similar assets .

 Operating lease payments are representative of 
the pattern of benefits derived from the leased 
assets and accordingly are charged to the profit 
and loss account in the periods in which they are 
incurred .

(y)  Rounding of amounts

 Amounts in the financial statements have been 
rounded off to the nearest thousand Kina.

(z)  Critical accounting estimates and judgments

 Estimates and judgments are continually 
evaluated and are based on historical experience 
and other factors, including expectations of future 
events that may have a financial impact on the 
entity and that are believed to be reasonable 
under the circumstances . 

 The Group makes estimates and assumptions 
concerning the future. The resulting accounting    
estimates will, by definition, seldom equal 
the related actual results. The estimates and 
assumptions that have a significant risk of causing 
a material adjustment to the carrying amounts of 
assets and liabilities within the next financial year 
are discussed below:

(i)  Estimated impairment of goodwill

 The Group tests annually whether goodwill 
has suffered any impairment. The recoverable 
amounts of cash-generating units have been 
determined based on value-in-use calculations .

(ii)   Estimated impairment of ships and other 

plant and equipment 

 The Group tests periodically the recoverable 
amount of ships and other plant and equipment . 
Recoverable amounts have been determined 
using the higher of fair value less cost to sell and 
its value in use . Fair value has been determined 
using market based information while value 
in use has been determined using a post-tax 
discount rate of 12.5%.

(iii)  Deferred tax assets relating to carry forward 

tax losses

 The analysis of the recognition and recoverability 
of the deferred tax assets relating to carry forward 
tax losses is complex and judgmental and 

Steamships Annual Report 2017       29

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

estimating future taxable income is based on 
assumptions that are affected by expected future 
market or economic conditions .

2.  Financial risk management

 The Group’s activities expose it to a variety of 
financial risks including market risk (including 
currency, and interest rate risk), credit risk, liquidity 
risk and capital risk. The Group’s overall risk 
management program focuses on the unpredictability 
of financial markets and seeks to minimise potential 
adverse effects on the financial performance of the 
Group. Risk management is carried out under policies 
approved by the Board of Directors.

(a)  Market risk

(i)  Foreign exchange risk

 The Group engages in international purchase 
transactions and is exposed to foreign exchange 
risk arising from various currency exposures, 
primarily with respect to the Australian dollar.  
Foreign exchange risk arises from recognised 
assets and liabilities .

 The Group’s foreign currency purchases do not 
represent a significant proportion of the Group’s 
costs and as such exposure to foreign currency 
risk is minimal.  It is not the Group’s policy 
to hedge foreign currency risk.  As the foreign 
currency exposure is minimal no sensitivity 
analysis is provided.

(ii)  Price risk

 The Group is not significantly exposed to equity 
securities or commodities price risk .

(iii)	Cash	flow	interest	rate	risk

 The Group’s interest rate risk arises from long-
term borrowings .  Borrowings issued at variable 
rates expose the Group to cash flow and fair 
value interest rate risk .  Borrowings issued at 
fixed rates expose the Group to fair value interest 
rate risk.  Long term borrowings are a mix of fixed 
and variable rate interest.  It is not the Group’s 

policy to hedge cash flow and interest rate risk.

 At 31 December 2017, if interest rates on 
PNG Kina-denominated borrowings had been 
1% higher/lower with all other variables held 
constant, post-tax profit for the year would have 
been K2,569,000 (2016: K3,044,000) lower/
higher, mainly as a result of higher/lower interest 
expense on floating rate borrowings.

(b)  Credit risk

 The Group has no significant concentration of 
credit risk and it is not the Group’s policy to 
hedge credit risk. The Group has policies in place 
to ensure that sales of products and services are 
made to customers with an appropriate credit 
history and has policies that limit the amount 
of credit exposure to any one customer. Where 
credit limits were exceeded during the reporting 
period management has made provision for 
amounts considered uncollectible .

(c)  Liquidity risk

 Prudent liquidity risk management implies 
maintaining sufficient cash and the availability 
of funding through an adequate amount 
of committed credit facilities. The Group 
manages liquidity risk by maintaining sufficient 
bank balances to fund its operations and the 
availability of funding through committed credit 
facilities .

 Management monitors rolling forecasts of the 
Group’s liquidity reserve on the basis of expected 
cash flows.

 Undrawn finance facilities as of 31 December 
were as follows:

2017 
K’000 

2016
K’000

Undrawn Facilities 

194,000 

126,000

30       Steamships Annual Report 2017

 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
	
	
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

The table below analyses the Group’s financial liabilities which will be settled on a net basis into relevant maturity groupings 
based on the remaining period at the balance sheet date to the contractual maturity date. The amounts disclosed in the table 
are the contractual undiscounted cash flows.

  At 31 December 2017 

  Borrowings 

  Borrowings from minority shareholders 

  Borrowings from related parties 

  Trade and other payables 

  At 31 December 2016 

  Borrowings 

  Borrowings from minority shareholders 

  Borrowings from related parties 

  Trade and other payables 

Less than 
1 year 
K’000 

Between 1 
& 2 years 
K’000 

Between 2 
& 5 years 
K’000 

Over 5 
years 
K’000 

(31,718) 

(19,503) 

(54,512) 

(108,170) 

(213,903) 

(6,786) 

(32,259) 

(35,452) 

(98,639) 

(173,136) 

(8,340) 

(326,947) 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

(8,340) 

(326,947) 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

(428,000) 

- 

- 

- 

(428,000) 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

Total
K’000

(367,005)

(19,503)

(54,512)

(108,170)

(549,190)

(434,786)

(32,259)

(35,452)

(98,639)

(601,136)

The Group does not hold derivative financial instruments.
All loan covenants associated with borrowing arrangements have been met .

Steamships Annual Report 2017       31

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

(d)  Capital risk management

(e)  Fair value estimation

 IFRS 7 ”Financial Instruments: Disclosures” 
requires disclosure of fair value measurements 
by level of the following fair value measurement 
hierarchy:

 Quoted prices (unadjusted) in active markets for 
identical assets or liabilities (level 1).

 Inputs other than quoted prices included 
within level 1 that are observable for the asset 
or liability, either directly (that is, as prices) or 
indirectly (that is, derived from prices) (level 2).

 Inputs for the asset or liability that are not based 
on observable market data (that is, unobservable 
inputs) (level 3).

 If one or more of the significant inputs is not 
based on observable market data, the instrument 
is included in level 3 .

 The Group does not hold any financial assets at 
fair value .

 The Group’s objectives when managing capital 
are to safeguard the Group’s ability to continue 
as a going concern in order to provide returns to 
shareholders and benefits for other stakeholders 
and to maintain an optimal capital structure to 
reduce the cost of capital .

 In order to maintain or adjust the capital 
structure, the Group may adjust the amount of 
dividends paid to shareholders, return capital to 
shareholders, issue new shares or sell assets to 
reduce debt .

 The Group monitors capital on the basis of the 
gearing ratio. This ratio is calculated as net debt 
divided by total capital. Net debt is calculated 
as external borrowings and unsecured loans 
less cash and cash equivalents. Total capital is 
calculated as capital and reserves attributable to 
the Company’s shareholders plus net debt.

The gearing ratios at each balance date were as follows:

  Total external borrowing &  
    unsecured loans 

  Less: Cash & Cash equivalents 

  Net debt 

  Total equity 

  Total capital 

  Gearing ratio 

2017 
K’000 

2016
K’000

441,020 

502,497

12,021 

428,999 

878,154 

36,685

465,812

881,837

1,307,153 

1,347,649

33% 

35%

32       Steamships Annual Report 2017

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

3.  Operating results

(a)  Revenue and other income comprises:

Revenue from sale of goods 

Revenue from provision of services 

Dividend income 

Total Revenue 

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

161,378 

544,309 

- 

135,448 

597,253 

- 

705,687 

732,701 

- 

- 

13,051 

13,051 

-

-

31,691

31,691

* Other income (net)  

15,244 

19,766 

2,828 

2,726

*  Other income principally represents a gain of K15.7M on sale of shares (2016: gain on sale of Coastwatchers Hotel of K14M).

(b)  Expenses comprise:

Cost of sales 

Staff costs (note 3c) 

Depreciation and amortisation 

Impairment of fixed assets  

Impairment of other assets 

Hotel & property development cost write off 

Electricity and fuel 

Other operating expenses 

Total operating expense 

(c)  Staff costs:

  Wages and salaries 

Retirement benefit contributions 

Accommodation and other benefits 

165,616 

142,266 

99,817 

12,261 

1,445 

6,742 

50,546 

166,083 

644,776 

122,091 

6,028 

14,147 

142,266 

143,240 

148,611 

106,715 

2,276 

- 

5,574 

50,787 

154,591 

611,794 

122,658 

6,380 

19,573 

148,611 

Number of staff employed by the Group at year end: 

Full Time 

3,165 

3,569 

- 

- 

-

-

2,229 

2,261

- 

- 

- 

- 

-

-

-

-

(198) 

2,031 

(456)

1,805

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

-

-

-

-

-

Steamships Annual Report 2017       33

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

3.  Operating results (continued)

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

(d)  The operating profit before income tax is arrived at after charging and crediting the following specific items:

After charging: 

Audit fees 

Fees for non-audit services to Auditors 

Bad and doubtful debts 

Donations 

Impairment of property, plant & equipment 

Impairment of other assets 

Loss on sale of fixed assets 

After crediting: 

Gain on sale of property, plant and equipment 

Net foreign exchange transaction gains 

(e)  Cost of financing – net: 

Expense* 

Income 

Net finance costs 

10 

10

1,050 

710 

2,964 

2,343 

12,261 

1,445 

851 

1,586 

413 

1,050 

814 

1,645 

1,278 

2,276 

- 

- 

19,766 

530 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

18,109 

(4,640) 

13,469 

34,235 

(12,248) 

21,987 

- 

(72) 

(72) 

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

(72)

(72)

*The interest expense excludes capitalised interest of K1.4M (2016 - K1.7M).   

(f)  Earnings per share 

 Basic earnings per share are calculated by dividing the net profit attributable to shareholders by the average number of ordinary 
shares on issue during the year.  There is no difference between the basic and diluted earnings per share.   

Net profit attributable to shareholders 

Average number of ordinary shares on issue (thousands) 

Basic earnings per share (continuing operations) 

41,516 

31,008 

134t 

84,210

31,008

272t

34       Steamships Annual Report 2017

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

4. 

Investments in subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

(a)  Investments are accounted for in accordance with the policy set out in Note 1(c) and relate to:

Investments in subsidiary companies (note 20) 

Investments in associates (note 21) 

Investments in joint ventures (note 22) 

(b)  Share of after tax profit in associates and joint ventures 

Share of profit in associates  

Share of profit in joint ventures 

5. 

Income Tax

(a)  Income tax expense
Current tax 

Deferred Tax 

Prior period (over)/under provided 

- 

38,287 

28,909 

67,196 

3,296 

4,229 

7,525 

- 

171,537 

171,537

35,813 

30,632 

66,445 

- 

36,626 

208,163 

-

36,626

208,163

3,886 

1,979 

5,865 

- 

- 

- 

     -

-

-

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

  37,602 

(2,220) 

 (2,761) 

32,621   

36,325 

(2,210) 

1,562 

35,677 

298 

(23) 

(70) 

205 

389

(64)

476

801

(b)   The income tax in the Statement of Comprehensive Income is determined in accordance with the policy set out in note 1(f). 

The effective rate of tax charged differs from the statutory rate of 30% for the following reasons. 

Prima facie tax on profit before income tax  

Tax effect of rebateable dividends 

Expenses not deductible for tax 

Deductible expenses not recognised for accounting purposes 

Tax loss not recognised 

Income not assessable for tax 

Prior year (over)/under provisions 

(c)  The deferred tax (liability)/ asset comprises: 

Provisions 

Tax losses 

Prepayments & consumables 

Property, plant and equipment 

Deferred tax asset 

Deferred tax liability 

   21,063 

         - 

     6,445 

     - 

15,814 

    (7,940) 

(2,761) 

     32,621 

10,364 

30,565 

 (9,750) 

(23,261) 

7,918 

30,250 

(22,332) 

    7,918 

37,365 

- 

1,696 

  (2,432) 

- 

(2,514) 

1,562 

35,677 

9,987 

32,799 

(16,837) 

(20,251) 

5,698 

36,680 

  (30,982) 

5,698 

4,176 

(3,915) 

9,805

(9,507)

14 

- 

- 

- 

(70) 

205 

- 

- 

- 

268 

268 

268 

- 

268 

27

-

-

-

476

801

-

-

-

245

245

245

-

245

The group has not recognised deferred tax asset amounting to K15.8m related to carried forward tax losses.

Steamships Annual Report 2017       35

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

5. 

Income tax (continued)

(d)  The gross movement on the deferred tax account is as follows:

Consolidated
Provisions & accruals 
Tax losses  
Prepayments & consumables 
Property, plant and equipment 
Total 

Parent Company 
Property, plant and equipment 
Total 

(e)  Income tax (receivable)/payable is represented as by:

At 1 January 
Income tax provision 
Income tax (over)/under provided 
Others 
Tax payments made 
At 31 December 

6.  Cash and cash equivalents

Cash and short term deposits 

Beginning 
Balance 

Charge to 
profit 

Ending 
Balance

9,987 
32,799 
(16,837) 
(20,251) 
5,698 

    377 
(2,234) 
7,087 
(3,010) 
2,220 

10,364
30,565
(9,750) 
(23,261)
 7,918

245 
245 

23 
23 

268
268

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

(716) 
37,602 
 (2,761) 
107 
(32,825) 
1,407 

1,407 
36,325 
1,562 
(634) 
(39,376) 
(716) 

4 
298 
(70) 
- 
(317) 
(85) 

(604) 
389
476
-
(256)
4

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

12,021 
12,021 

36,685 
36,685 

- 
- 

404
404

 The maximum exposure to credit risk at the reporting date is the fair value of cash and cash equivalents on the balance sheet. Cash 
and short term deposits are held with the banks resident in Papua New Guinea who have appropriate long term credit ratings.

7.  Trade and other receivables

Trade and other receivables
Trade receivables 
Provision for impairment 

Other receivables & prepayments 

36       Steamships Annual Report 2017

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

102,209 
(6,186) 
96,023 
65,632 
161,655 

96,927 
(3,440) 
93,487 
41,335 
134,822 

- 
- 
- 
435 
435 

-
-
-
407
407

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

7.  Trade and other receivables (continued)

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

(i)  Impaired trade receivables

 As at 31 December 2017, trade receivables of K6.1M (2016: K3.4M) relating to trade debtors were considered impaired and were 
provided for by management.  The ageing of these receivables is as follows:

3 to 6 months 

Over 6 months 

628 

5,558 

6,186 

Movement in the provision for impairment of trade receivables is as follows:

Opening balance 

Impairments recognised during the year 

Provision released 

Total 

3,440 

2,964 

(218) 

6,186 

762 

2,678 

3,440 

6,082 

1,645 

(4,287) 

3,440 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

 The creation and release of the provision for impaired receivables is included in operating expenses in the statement of 
comprehensive income. Amounts charged to the provision account are generally written off when there is no expectation of 
recovering the balance outstanding.

(ii)  Past due but not impaired

  As at 31 December 2017, trade receivables of K6M (2016: K4.9M) were past due but not impaired. These relate to a number of 
independent customers for whom there is no recent history of default. The ageing analysis of these trade receivables is as follows: 

3 to 6 months 

Over 6 months 

1,152 

4,874 

6,026 

928 

3,924 

4,852 

- 

- 

- 

-

-

-

 The other classes within trade and other receivables do not contain impaired assets and are not past due. The maximum exposure 
to credit risk at the reporting date is the fair value of each class of receivable mentioned above.  The Group does not hold any 
collateral as security in relation to these receivables.

(iii)  Other receivables and prepayments

 Other receivables generally arise from transactions outside the usual operating activities of the Group. Interest may be charged at 
commercial rates where the terms of repayment exceed three months. Collateral is not normally obtained.

Prepayments relate to advance payments for expenses not yet incurred.

Steamships Annual Report 2017       37

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

8. 

Inventories

Raw materials 

Finished goods 

Provision for obsolescence 

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

17,175 

32,980 

(2,822) 

47,333 

10,024 

33,326 

(2,222) 

41,128 

- 

- 

- 

- 

-

-

-

-

 Inventories recognised as an expense during the year ended 31 December 2017 and included in cost of sales and cost of  
providing services amounted to K115M (2016: K90.6M). The provision for obsolescence of inventories during the year increased  
by K0.6M (2016: by K1.1M decrease).

9.  Loans to/(from) related companies

Non-Current 

Colgate Palmolive (PNG) Limited 

  Wonye Limited 

Morobe Terminals Limited 

Labu Holdings Limited 

Pacific Rumana Limited 

Harbourside Development Limited 

Croesus Re SPC Limited 

Loans to subsidiaries 

Loans from associates and joint ventures: 

Harbourside Development Limited 

Morobe Terminals Limited 

Consort Express Lines Limited’s associates 

  Wonye Limited  

Loans from subsidiaries 

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

500 

- 

- 

- 

31,905 

33,679 

7,707 

73,791 

- 

73,791 

(3,083) 

(9,192) 

(40,291) 

(1,946) 

(54,512) 

- 

500 

275 

60 

100 

36,800 

33,115 

- 

70, 850 

- 

70,850 

(1,111) 

(3,150) 

(31,191) 

- 

(35,452) 

500 

500

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

-

-

-

-

-

-

500 

5,212 

5,712 

500

5,212

5,712

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

-

-

-

-

-

- 

(218,274) 

(200,404)

(54,512) 

(35,452) 

(218,274) 

(200,404)

 The loan to Harbourside Development Limited is secured and earns interest at 6.5%. The loan to Pacific Rumana Limited is 
unsecured and earns interest at 9%. The loan from Consort Express Lines Limited’s associates are unsecured and incur  
interest at 4%.

38       Steamships Annual Report 2017

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

10.  Property, plant & equipment

Consolidated 
2017 

Cost  

Property 

Ships 

Plant and 
Vehicles 

Total

524,216 

250,352 

441,026 

1,215,594

Accumulated depreciation (including impairment losses) 

(156,643) 

(113,254) 

(317,570) 

(587,467)

Net book value 

           367,573 

137,098 

123,456 

628,127

Opening value 

Additions 

Disposals 

Depreciation  

Impairment 

Closing value 

2016 

Cost 

370,391 

10,694 

(3,176) 

(10,336) 

- 

164,387 

148,139 

16,093 

(6,486) 

(26,829) 

(10,067) 

22,713 

(3,336) 

(41,866) 

(2,194) 

682,917

49,500

(12,998)

(79,031)

(12,261)

367,573 

137,098 

123,456 

628,127

                         513,002 

325,149 

435,279 

1,273,430

Accumulated depreciation (including impairment losses) 

(142,611) 

(160,762) 

(287,140) 

(590,513)

Net book value 

Opening value 

Additions 

Disposals 

Depreciation  

Impairment 

Transfers to investment properties 

Closing value 

Parent Entity 
2017 

Cost  

Accumulated depreciation 

Net book value 

Opening value 

Additions 

Disposals 

Depreciation  

Closing value 

370,391 

164,387 

148,139 

682,917

393,606 

24,734 

- 

(7,775) 

- 

(40,174) 

370,391 

73,755 

(50,327) 

23,428 

24,550 

583 

- 

(1,705) 

23,428 

169,319 

26,118 

(4,004) 

(27,046) 

- 

- 

168,671 

44,477 

(12,639) 

(50,094) 

(2,276) 

- 

731,596

95,329

(16,643)

(84,915)

(2,276)

(40,174)

164,387 

148,139 

682,917

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

5,689 

(4,572) 

1,117 

79,444

(54,899)

24,545 

1,384 

25,934

338 

(81) 

(524) 

1,117 

921

(81)

(2,229)

24,545

Steamships Annual Report 2017       39

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

10.  Property, plant & equipment (continued)

Property 

Ships 

Plant and 
Vehicles 

Total

Parent Entity 
2016 

Cost  

Accumulated depreciation 

Net book value 

Opening value 

Additions 

Transfers 

Depreciation  

Closing value 

73,210 

(48,660) 

      24,550 

24,549 

3 

1,724 

(1,726) 

24,550 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

5,994 

(4,610) 

1,384 

1,611 

308 

- 

(535) 

1,384 

79,204 

(53,270)

25,934   

26,160

311

1,724

(2,261)

25,934

(a)  Assets in the course of construction

 The carrying amounts of the assets disclosed above include the following expenditure recognised in relation to property, plant and 
equipment and investment properties which are in the course of construction:

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

Property (classified as investment properties in note 11) 

Ships  

Plant and vehicles 

Total assets in the course of construction 

53,270 

- 

15,483 

68,753 

45,502 

1,239 

16,300 

63,041 

- 

- 

- 

- 

-

-

-

-

The cost of additions in 2017 includes capitalised borrowing costs of K1.4M (2016: K1.7M) in relation to qualifying assets.  

(b)  Impairment losses

 During the year the Directors performed an impairment review on all key assets of the Group. As a result of this assessment an 
impairment charge of K12.3M (2016: K2.3M) was recorded on ships and equipment, plant and vehicles. 

There are no other further conditions that indicate impairment of property, plant and equipment as at 31 December 2017.

40       Steamships Annual Report 2017

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

11.  Investment properties

 Investment properties represent the Group’s residential and commercial properties that are available for external lease rather than 
internal use. Properties used by the Group are shown in ‘Property’ within note 10.

Cost  
Accumulated depreciation 
Net book value 

Opening value 
Additions 
Disposals 
Transfers from property, plant & equipment 
Depreciation 
Closing value 

(a)  Amounts recognised in profit/loss for investment properties

Rental income 
Repairs and maintenance attributable to rental 
  properties under non-cancellable leases 
Operating expenses directly attributable to rental 
  properties under non-cancellable leases 

(b)  Valuation basis

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

516,759 
(147,761)  
368,998 

385,974 
4,599 
(789) 
- 
(20,786) 
368,998 

521,381 
(135,407) 
385,974 

341,359 
27,693 
(1,453) 
40,174 
(21,799) 
385,974 

- 
- 
- 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

-
-
-

-
-
-
-
-
-

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

120,145 

130,562 

(4,438) 

(4,654) 

(12,076) 

(11,483) 

- 

- 

- 

-

-

-

 Properties include commercial and residential properties occupied by Group businesses together with commercial and residential 
investment properties which are available for external lease.  An analysis of the carrying amount and estimated range of fair values 
for each category of property is shown below.  Fair values have been estimated internally, based on market evidence of property 
values, supported by independent professional valuations as at December 2017 for a selected sample of representative properties 
and combination of independent professional valuation and discounted value in use assessments for some of the hotel properties.

Included in properties are the following: 

Investment properties 
Other properties (note 10) 
Total  

NBV 

Valuation Lower 

Range Higher

368,998 
367,573 
736,571 

803,779 
800,674 
1,604,453 

1,005,093
1,001,211
2,006,304

 The independent valuer utilised certain historical facts and relevant market data available up to the date of valuation in reaching 
their opinion as to the valuation of the properties, including use of comparable sales and capitalisation rates.  
(c)  Non-current assets pledged as security

  Refer to note 15 for information on non-current assets pledged as security by the Group.

(d)  Contractual receivables 

 Minimum lease receivables under non-cancellable operating leases of investment properties not recognised in the financial 
statements are receivable as follows:

  Within one year 

Later than one year but not later than five years 
Later than five years 

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

120,308 
114,045 
127,799 
362,152 

129,509 
128,854 
151,730 
410,093 

- 
- 
- 
- 

-
-
-
-

Steamships Annual Report 2017       41

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

12.  Intangible assets

Opening balance 

Goodwill impairment during the year 

Closing balance 

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

80,491 

(489) 

80,002 

80,491 

- 

80,491 

- 

- 

- 

-

-

-

 Goodwill is allocated to the Group’s cash-generating units (CGUs) identified according to operating segment. The goodwill balance 
of K80M (2016: K80.5M) is attributable to various business acquisitions in the logistics and commercial segments including Laga 
Industries (K3.6M), Pacific Towing (K67.4M) and New Britain Shipping (K9M). Goodwill of K0.5M in Consort Express Lines Limited 
has been written off during the year. The recoverable amount of a CGU is determined based on value-in-use calculations. These 
calculations use pre-tax cash flow projections based on financial budgets approved by management covering a three year period. 
Growth beyond year three for the purpose of the impairment testing is set at 5%-8%.  A post-tax discount rate of 12.5% per 
annum has been used and reflects specific risks relating to the operating segment. 

13.  Trade and other payables

Trade Payables 

Accruals 

Other payables 

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

38,589 

67,410 

2,171 

108,170 

44,980 

53,447 

212 

98,639 

- 

- 

- 

- 

-

-

680

680

All trade and other payables are due and payable within 12 months and are recorded at their carrying value.

14.  Provisions for other liabilities and charges

Opening value 

Charged to profit & loss 

Utilised during year 

Closing value 

Current 

Non-current 

Employee 

Dry 
Dock 

2017 
Total 

2016 
Total

18,006 

6,821 

(6,537) 

18,290 

6,250 

12,040 

18,290 

4,747 

- 

22,753 

6,821 

21,740

13,714

(4,747) 

(11,284) 

(12,701)

- 

- 

- 

- 

18,290 

6,250 

12,040 

18,290 

22,753

11,510

11,243

22,753

A description of employee and dry dock provisions is disclosed in note 1p.

42       Steamships Annual Report 2017

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

15.  Borrowings

Current: 

Bank overdrafts (secured) 

Bank loans (secured) 

Other loans (unsecured) 

Non-current: 

Bank loans (secured) 

Total Borrowings 

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

23,378 

8,340 

19,503 

51,221 

335,287 

335,287 

386,508 

6,786 

- 

32,259 

39,045 

428,000 

428,000 

467,045 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

-

-

-

-

-

-

-

 Mortgages over certain of the Group’s properties and a registered equitable charge over the remainder of the Group’s assets, 
undertakings and uncalled capital are held by the Group’s bankers as security for the bank overdrafts and secured loans. 

 Interest is paid on all loans at commercial rates at a discount to Indicator Lending Rates.  The effective interest rate on bank 
facilities at the balance sheet date was 4.6% (2016: 4.5%). Bank overdrafts are interest-only with no agreed repayment schedule. 
Bank loans are secured loans with varying 2 to 4 year terms. The effective interest rate on other loans is 7.83% (2016: 7.74%).

 The fair value of borrowings approximates their carrying amounts. Borrowing terms, margins and credit risk factors approximate 
currently obtainable levels for similar facilities.

16.  Issued capital                                                                                        

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

(a)  Issued and paid up capital

Ordinary shares 

24,200 

24,200 

24,200 

24,200

(b)  Number of shares

Number of shares (000’s)

Ordinary shares 

31,008 

31,008 

31,008 

31,008

In accordance with the Papua New Guinea Companies Act 1997 the shares have no par value.

The Company’s securities consist of ordinary shares which have equal participation and voting rights.

(c)  Dividend

 The Directors advise that a final dividend of 40 toea per share will be paid immediately after the Annual General Meeting on 
8 June 2018.  This brings the total dividend declared for the year to 110 toea per share. Dividends payable to shareholders resident 
outside of Papua New Guinea will be converted to Australian Dollars at the prevailing rate which the Company is able to secure.

 During the year the Company paid dividends totalling 105 toea per share which includes the final dividend of 2016 and totalled 
K32,558,400.

Steamships Annual Report 2017       43

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

17.  Related party disclosures

(a)  Parent entity

 The Group is controlled by John Swire & Sons (PNG) Limited, which owns 72.12% of the Company’s shares. The ultimate 
Holding Company is John Swire & Sons Limited, incorporated in England.

(b)  Interest in subsidiaries, associates and joint ventures:  

These are set out in notes 20, 21 and 22 respectively.                 

(c)  Directors:

 G.L. Cundle, P.W. Langslow and M.R. Scantlebury are directors of John Swire & Sons (PNG) Limited.       

(d)  Remuneration: 

 Income received or due and receivable both by Directors and senior managers in connection with the management of the 
Group companies is shown in the Directors’ Report.  

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

Key management personnel disclosure

  Wages and salaries 

Other short term benefits 
Long-term benefits 

(e)   Material transactions: 

Sales of goods and services 

          - Associates & joint ventures 
          - Key Management 
          - Associated Groups 

Lease and rental income 
          - Associates & joint ventures 
          - Key management 
          - Associated Groups 

Dividends received 

          - Subsidiaries, associates & joint ventures 

Purchase of goods and services 

          - Associates & joint ventures 
          - Associated groups 
          - Shareholders of associated companies 

Purchase of assets 

          - Associates & joint ventures 
          - Associated groups 
Lease rental expense
          - Other shareholders   

Finance Cost 

          - Associates & joint ventures 
          - Other shareholders 
Dividends paid 

          - Other shareholders (minority interest) 
          - Controlling shareholder 
          - Significant shareholder 

Loans to/(from) related companies 

          - Other shareholders 
Insurance premiums

          - Affiliated party 

Insurance claims received  

          - Affiliated party 

44       Steamships Annual Report 2017

13,347 
1,375 
- 

1,622 
59 
21,732 

- 
585 
4,080 

6,774 

(801) 
(21,986) 
(47) 

- 
(1,064) 

12,488 
1,293 
27 

1,007 
355 
16,645 

50 
- 
4,743 

- 
- 
- 

- 
- 
- 

- 
- 
- 

-
-
-

-
-
-

-
-
-

20 

13,051 

31,691

(29) 
(23,477) 
(9,370) 

(794) 
(465) 

(2,733) 

(2,462) 

(1,100) 
(1,795) 

(8,715) 
(23,482) 
(9,077) 

(1,058) 
(1,764) 

(3,348) 
(29,058) 
(11,233) 

(19,503) 

(22,933) 

(9,809) 

(12,002) 

12,717 

4,995 

- 
- 
- 

- 
- 

- 

- 
- 

-
-
-

-
-

-

-
-

- 
(23,482) 
(9,077) 

-
(29,058)
(11,233)

- 

- 

- 

-

-

-

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

17.  Related party disclosures (continued)

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

All transactions with related parties are made on normal commercial terms and conditions.

Balances with related companies: 
Consort associates (note 9) 
Harbourside Development Limited (note 9) 
Morobe Terminals Limited (note 9) 
Consort shareholders (note 15) 
Basilok Limited (note 15) 
Croesus Re SPC Limited (note 15) 

  Wonye Limited (note 9) 

Loans to related companies: 
Colgate Palmolive Limited (note 9) 
Harbourside Development Limited (note 9) 
Subsidiary Companies (note 9) 
Pacific Rumana Limited (note 9) 
Labu Holdings Limited (note 9) 
Morobe Terminals Limited (note 9) 

  Wonye Limited (note 9) 

Croesus Re SPC Limited (note 9) 

18.  Reconciliation of cash flows

(a)   Cash generated from operations

Profit for the year after tax 

Depreciation and impairment 

Dividend and interest income 

Net loss/(gain) on sale of fixed assets 

Share of profit of associates and joint ventures 

Change in operating assets and liabilities

(Increase)/decrease in trade debtors 

(Increase)/decrease in inventory 

(Increase)/decrease in deferred tax asset 

(Increase)/decrease in operating assets 

(Decrease)/increase in trade creditors 

Increase in other operating liabilities 

(Decrease)/increase in income tax payable 

(Decrease)/increase in deferred tax liability 

(40,291) 
(3,083) 
(9,192) 
(19,343) 
(160) 
- 
(1,946) 

500 
33,679 
- 
31,905 
- 
- 
- 
7,707 

(31,191) 
(1,111) 
(3,150) 
(22,733) 
(160) 
(9,326) 
- 

500 
33,115 
- 
36,800 
100 
60 
275 
- 

- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

500 
- 
5,212 
- 
- 
- 
- 
- 

-
-
-
-
-
-
-

500
-
5,212
-
-
-
-
-

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

37,590 

112,078 

- 

(735) 

(7,525) 

(26,846) 

(6,205) 

6,431 

(10,966) 

12,430 

(7,379) 

(2,858) 

(3,986) 

88,874 

108,991 

13,715 

2,229 

31,883

2,261

- 

(13,051) 

(31,691)

(19,766) 

(5,865) 

- 

- 

-

-

21,079 

(120) 

234 

(7,961) 

(22,494) 

32,656 

(2,123) 

(2,444) 

(869) 

- 

71 

- 

(680) 

- 

(182) 

- 

(1,030)

-

(246)

182

680

-

608

-

Net cash inflow from operating activities 

102,029 

191,061 

1,233 

2,647

Steamships Annual Report 2017       45

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

18.  Reconciliation of cash flows (continued)

(b)  Net loan reconciliation

Net loans as at 31 December 2016 

Borrowing from related parties 

Repayments 

Net loans as at 31 December 2017 

19.  Retirement benefit plans

Bank loans 

Other loans 

Total

(428,000) 

- 

84,373 

(67,711) 

(19,059) 

12,755 

(495,711)

(19,059)

97,128

(343,627) 

(74,015) 

(417,642)

 The total cost of retirement benefits of the Group in 2017 was K6M (2016: K6.4M). The Group participates in the National 
Superannuation Fund of Papua New Guinea, a multi-employer defined contribution fund, on behalf of all citizen employees 
with minimum employer and employee contribution rates established by legislation. The Group also contributes to a defined 
contribution superannuation plan on behalf of expatriates. The defined contribution superannuation plan was established in 2002.

The parent entity does not employ staff directly; consequently there was no charge during the year.

46       Steamships Annual Report 2017

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

20.  Subsidiaries and transactions with non-controlling interests

Significant investments in subsidiaries

 The consolidated financial statements incorporate the assets, liabilities and results of the following subsidiaries in accordance with 
the accounting policy described in Note 1 (c):  

Name of Entity 

Country of Incorporation 

Class of Shares 

Consort Express Lines Limited 

Papua New Guinea 

Kavieng Port Services Limited 

Papua New Guinea 

Kiunga Stevedoring Company Limited 

Papua New Guinea 

Lae Port Services Limited 

Laga Industries Limited 

Madang Port Services Limited 

Papua New Guinea 

Papua New Guinea 

Papua New Guinea 

New Britain Shipping Limited** 

Papua New Guinea 

Oro Port Services Limited 

Pacific Towing (PNG) Limited 

Papua New Guinea 

Papua New Guinea 

Pacific Rumana Mobile Investments Limited*** 

Papua New Guinea 

Palm Stevedoring & Transport Limited 

Papua New Guinea 

Port Services PNG Limited 

Steamships Limited*** 

Papua New Guinea 

Papua New Guinea 

  Windward Apartments Limited 

Papua New Guinea 

Motukea United Limited 

Papua New Guinea 

Ordinary 

Ordinary 

Ordinary 

Ordinary 

Ordinary 

Ordinary 

Ordinary 

Ordinary 

Ordinary 

Ordinary 

Ordinary 

Ordinary 

Ordinary 

Ordinary 

Ordinary 

Equity  
Holdings* 
2017 

Equity 
Holdings*
2016

70.2 

70.2

60 

100 

51 

100 

60 

50 

100 

100 

- 

56.7 

54 

100 

100 

60

100

51

100

60

50

100

100

79.8

56.7

54

100

100

50.9 

50.9

*The portion of ownership is equal to the proportion of voting power held.

 ** Consolidated by virtue of control over the operating decisions and returns. As at 31 December 2017, Steamships Trading 
Company Limited still has control over this entity.

 *** Pacific Rumana Mobile Investments Limited was amalgamated into Steamships Limited on 29 December 2017. 

 Shares in subsidiary companies have been stated at cost or fair value on acquisition less dividends received from pre-acquisition 
profits. 

 Steamships Trading Company Limited has granted a call option to a minority shareholder of Consort Express Lines Limited in the 
event of any recovery under a charter performance guarantee to enforce a proportional equity buy back. At 31 December 2017, 
the performance guarantee obligations are being met.

Steamships Annual Report 2017       47

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

21.  Investment in associates 

(a)  Movement in carrying amounts

Opening value 

Share of profits before tax 

Income tax expense 

Dividends received 

Acquisition of interest in Morobe Terminal Ltd 

Closing value 

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

35,813 

4,709 

(1,413) 

(822) 

- 

38,287 

20,607 

5,551 

(1,665) 

(20) 

11,340 

35,813 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

-

-

-

-

-

-

The equity method is used to account for all interests in associates on a consolidated basis. 

(b)  Summarised financial information of equity accounted associates. 

The Group’s share of the results of its principal associates and its aggregated assets (including goodwill) and liabilities are as follows: 

2017 

Makerio Stevedoring Limited 

Nikana Stevedoring Limited 

Riback Stevedoring Limited 

United Stevedoring Limited 

Morobe Terminal Limited 

2016 

Makerio Stevedoring Limited 

Nikana Stevedoring Limited 

Riback Stevedoring Limited 

United Stevedoring Limited 

Morobe Terminal Limited 

Ownerships 
Interest 
% 

31.7 

31.7 

34.4 

16.9 

43.0 

Ownerships 
Interest 
% 

31.7 

31.7 

34.4 

16.9 

43.0 

Assets 

Liabilities 

1,211 

1,489 

28,287 

337 

11,350 

42,674 

21 

76 

3,608 

271 

411 

4,387 

Assets 

Liabilities 

1,620 

1,440 

31,106 

367 

13,892 

48,425 

480 

208 

9,166 

304 

2,454 

12,612 

Carrying 
Value 

1,190 

1,413 

24,679 

66 

10,939 

38,287 

Carrying 
Value 

1,140 

1,232 

21,940 

63 

11,438 

35,813 

Revenue 

Profit 

722 

489 

10,924 

4,099 

1,008 

17,242 

50

181

2,738

3

324

3,296

Revenue 

Profit 

722 

489 

10,924 

4,099 

1,008 

17,242 

235

199

3,347

7

98

3,886

The associates provide stevedoring services to various external and Group shipping entities.

All associated companies are incorporated and operate in Papua New Guinea.

There are no contingent liabilities relating to the Group’s interest in the associates. 

48       Steamships Annual Report 2017

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

22.  Investment in joint ventures

(a)  Movement in carrying amounts

Opening value 
Share of profits before tax 
Income tax expense 
Dividends received 
Acquisition of interest in joint ventures   

Closing value 

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

30,632 
6,041 
(1,812) 
(5,952) 
- 

28,909 

15,851 
2,827 
(848) 
- 
12,802 

30,632 

23,823 
- 
- 
- 
12,760 

36,583 

20,051
-
-
-
3,772

23,823

The interest in joint ventures is accounted for in the financial statements using the equity method of accounting.    

(b)  Information relating to the joint ventures is set out below.

2017 

Colgate Palmolive (PNG) Limited 

Harbourside Development Limited 

Pacific Rumana Limited 

Viva No. 31 Limited 

  Wonye Limited 

Assets 

Liabilities 

Ownership 
Interest 
% 

50 

50 

50 

50 

50 

15,715 

91,213 

3,863 

11,180 

26,200 

8,592 

88,627 

1,069 

7,534 

13,440 

Carrying 
Value 

7,123 

2,586 

2,794 

3,646 

12,760 

Revenue 

Profit 

38,982 

9,586 

3,786 

    - 

    - 

3,324

(232)

1,283

(104)

(42)

148,171 

119,262 

28,909 

52,354 

4,229

2016 

Colgate Palmolive (PNG) Limited 

Harbourside Development Limited 

Pacific Rumana Limited 

Viva No. 31 Limited 

  Wonye Limited 

Assets 

Liabilities 

Ownership 
Interest 
% 

50 

50 

50 

50 

50 

17,366 

94,682 

3,761 

10,810 

15,262 

9,567 

91,864 

299 

7,060 

2,460 

Carrying 
Value 

7,799 

2,818 

3,462 

3,750 

12,803 

Revenue 

Profit 

38,099 

9,025 

3,836 

- 

- 

2,605

(1,651)

1,047

(22)

-

141,881 

111,250 

30,632 

50,960 

1,979

The Group’s share of the capital commitments of joint ventures at 31 December 2017 is K4M (2016: K13.6M). 

There are no contingent liabilities arising from the Group’s interests in the joint ventures. 

Steamships Annual Report 2017       49

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

23. Segmental reporting

(a)  Description of segments

 The Board monitors the business from a product perspective and have identified four reportable segments. A brief description of 
each segment is outlined below:

• 

• 

• 

• 

 Commercial – consists of the manufacture and distribution of consumer products.

 Hotels and property – consists of the hotels owned and operated by the Group and also its property leasing division. The 
assets are stated at historical cost net of accumulated depreciation and includes new assets in the course of construction.

Logistics – consists of shipping and land based freight transport and related services divisions.

Finance and investment – consists of the head office administration function. 

(b)  Segment information 

The segment information provided to the Board for the reportable segments for the year ended 31 December 2017 is as follows: 

2017 

External revenue 

Interest revenue 

Interest expense 

Depreciation and amortisation 

Segment results 

Share of joint ventures and associates profit 

Total tax expense 

Profit from continuing operations 

Commercial 

Hotels & 
Property 

Logistics 

Finance & 
Investment (and  
elimination) 

Total 

147,650 

227,408 

- 

- 

5,201 

10,124 

3,324 

(2,888) 

10,560 

- 

(17,533) 

43,047 

59,478 

905 

(20,688) 

39,696 

324,548 

1,383 

(12,570) 

47,772 

(5,757) 

3,296 

(13,724) 

(16,186) 

6,081 

3,257 

11,995 

3,796 

(1,159) 

- 

4,679 

3,520 

705,687

4,640

(18,109)

99,817

62,686

7,525

(32,621)

37,590

Segment assets 

Segment liabilities 

Net assets 

110,127 

733,408 

410,348 

215,503 

1,469,386

(77,990) 

   (300,991) 

(226,179) 

13,928 

(591,233)

32,137 

432,417 

184,168 

229,431 

878,153

Total assets includes investment in joint ventures 
  and associates  

Capital expenditure 

7,123 

5,081 

21,786 

25,775 

38,287 

22,084 

- 

1,158 

67,196

54,090

50       Steamships Annual Report 2017

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

23. Segmental reporting (continued)

Commercial 

Hotels & 
Property 

Logistics 

Finance & 
Investment 
(and elimination) 

Total 

2016 

External revenue 

Interest revenue 

Interest expense 

115,823 

253,170 

355,992 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

- 

Depreciation and amortisation 

4,936 

45,076 

53,979 

7,716 

12,248 

(34,235) 

2,724 

732,701

12,248

(34,235)

106,715

Segment results 

Share of joint ventures and associates profit 

Total tax expense 

Profit from continuing operations 

8,758 

2,605 

(3,018) 

8,345 

88,109 

(626) 

(27,923) 

59,560 

24,210 

3,886 

(11,984) 

16,112 

(2,391) 

118,686

- 

7,248 

4,857 

5,865

(35,677)

88,874

Segment assets 

Segment liabilities 

Net assets 

92,139 

768,919 

464,084 

211,566 

1,536,708

(65,026) 

(365,418) 

(251,586) 

27,113 

403,501 

212,498 

27,159 

238,725 

(654,871)

881,837

Total assets includes investment in joint ventures 
  and associates 

7,799 

22,833 

35,813 

- 

66,445

Capital expenditure 

5,798 

53,517 

43,249 

6,914 

109,478

These figures include non-controlling interests share of operating profits and assets.

(c)  Geography

 The Group operates almost wholly in Papua New Guinea.  It is not practical to provide a segment analysis by geographical region 
within Papua New Guinea. The Group has one insignificant business operation in the Solomon Islands.

Steamships Annual Report 2017       51

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year Ended 31 December 2017 (Amounts in Kina 000’s)

24.  Contingent assets and liabilities

(a)  Contingent Assets

 The Company received a salaries and wages tax default assessment of K15.2M, including penalties and interest, from the Internal 
Revenue Commission of PNG (“IRC”) for the periods from 2006 to 2016. The Company has paid the assessment and lodged the 
appropriate objections as required by the IRC. Although management are confident of a successful outcome, the application of 
IAS37 requires such recovery to be considered as a contingent asset.  

(a)  Contingent Liabilities

There were contingent liabilities at the Balance Sheet date as follows:

(a)  The parent entity has given a secured guarantee in respect of the bank overdrafts of certain subsidiaries.

(b)   The parent entity has given letters of continuing financial support in respect of certain subsidiaries, associates and joint 

ventures.

No losses are anticipated in respect of these guarantees.

25.  Commitments

(a)  Capital commitments

Contracts outstanding for capital expenditure: 

- less than 12 months 

- 1-5 years 

(b)  Lease commitments: Group as lessee

 The Group does not have any non-cancellable operating leases.  

26. Subsequent events

Consolidated 

Parent Entity

2017 

2016 

2017 

2016

7,194 

60,758 

67,952 

18,621 

31,303 

49,924 

- 

- 

- 

-

-

-

 In March 2018 the Directors declared a final dividend of 40 toea per share payable immediately after the Annual General Meeting 
on 8 June 2018 amounting to K12.4M.

52       Steamships Annual Report 2017

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT
to the Shareholders of Steamships Trading Company Limited

Report on the audit of the financial statements of the Company and the Group 

Our opinion 
We have audited the financial statements of Steamships Trading Company Limited (the Company), which comprise the 
statements of financial position as at 31 December 2017, and the statements of comprehensive income, statement of 
changes in equity and statements of cash flows for the year then ended, and the notes to the financial statements which 
include a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory information for both the Company and the 
Group. The Group comprises the Company and the entities it controlled at 31 December 2017 or from time to time during 
the financial year.

In our opinion the accompanying financial statements:

• 

• 

 comply with International Financial Reporting Standards and other generally accepted accounting practice in Papua 
New Guinea; and

 give a true and fair view of the financial position of the Company and the Group as at 31 December 2017, and their 
financial performance and cash flows for the year then ended.

Basis for opinion  
We conducted our audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (ISAs). Our responsibilities under those 
standards are further described in the Auditor’s	responsibilities	for	the	audit	of	the	financial	statements section of our report . 

We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. 

Independence

We are independent of the Group in accordance with the International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants’ Code of 
Ethics for Professional Accountants (IESBA Code), and we have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with 
these requirements . 

Our firm carries out other services for the Group in the areas of taxation and other non-audit services. The provision of these 
other services has not impaired our independence as auditor of the Company and the Group.

Our audit approach   
An audit is designed to provide reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free from material 
misstatement. Misstatements may arise due to fraud or error. They are considered material if individually or in aggregate, 
they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of the financial 
statements .

We tailored the scope of our audit to ensure that we performed enough work to be able to give an opinion on the financial 
statements as a whole, taking into account the management structure of the Company and the Group, their accounting 
processes and controls and the industries in which they operate.

PricewaterhouseCoopers 
PwC Haus, Level 6, Harbour City, Konedobu. PO Box 484, PORT MORESBY, PAPUA NEW GUINEA 
T: (675) 321 1500 / (675) 305 3100, F: (675) 321 1428, www.pwc.com.pg 

Steamships Annual Report 2017       53

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT
to the Shareholders of Steamships Trading Company Limited

Materiality

Audit scope

Key audit matters

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

• 

 For the purpose of our audit of 
the Group we used overall group 
materiality of K4.5 million, which 
represents 5% of the Group’s 
profit before tax after adding back 
certain non-recurring items . 

 We applied this threshold, 
together with qualitative 
considerations, to determine the 
scope of our audit and the nature, 
timing and extent of our audit 
procedures and to evaluate the 
effect of misstatements on the 
financial statements as a whole.

 We chose Group profit before 
tax because in our view, it is 
the metric against which the 
performance of the Group is most 
commonly measured and is a 
generally accepted benchmark.

 We selected 5% based on our 
professional judgement noting 
that it is also within the range of 
commonly acceptable related 
thresholds .

 We (PwC Papua New Guinea) 
conducted audit work over all the 
subsidiaries which comprise the 
Group consolidation.

• 

 Amongst other relevant topics, we 
communicated the following key 
audit matters to the Audit and Risk 
Committee:

      • 

 Non-current asset impairment 
assessment

      • 

 Goodwill impairment 
assessment

      • 

 Recovery of deferred tax assets

• 

 These matters are further described 
in the Key audit matters section of 
our report .

 All subsidiaries of the Group 
are incorporated and operating 
in Papua New Guinea with the 
exception of one subsidiary which 
has operations in the Solomon 
Islands .

 All significant associates of the 
Group are incorporated and 
operating in Papua New Guinea 
and audited by PwC Papua New 
Guinea.

 Our audit focused on where 
the directors made subjective 
judgements; for example, 
significant accounting estimates 
involving assumptions and 
inherently uncertain future events.

54       Steamships Annual Report 2017

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT
to the Shareholders of Steamships Trading Company Limited

Key audit matters 
Key audit matters are those matters that, in our professional judgment, were of most significance in our audit of the 
financial statements for the current period.  The key audit matters were addressed in the context of our audit of the financial 
statements as a whole, and in forming our opinion thereon, and we do not provide a separate opinion on these matters.  We 
have determined the matters described below to be key matters to be communicated in our report.

Further, commentary on the outcomes of the particular audit procedures is made in that context.

Key audit matter

How our audit addressed the key matter

Non-current asset impairment assessment

(Refer	to	note	10	of	the	financial	statements)

As there was an indicator of potential impairment we 
have considered and tested the Group’s assessment of the 
estimated sale values of the ships . 

Included within property, plant and equipment are ships 
with an aggregate net book value of K137.1 million as at 
31 December 2017 after an impairment charge of K10.1 
million recognised during the year. 

The Group’s financial performance has been impacted by 
a prolonged weakness in economic conditions in Papua 
New Guinea. These conditions adversely impacted levels of 
shipping throughout the country.

We considered this a key audit matter because economic 
conditions are a potential indicator of impairment in the 
value of the ships. The Group has assessed impairment 
by reference to estimated sales values of the ships. The 
impairment assessment is sensitive to changes in key 
assumptions about the estimated sales values of the ships . 

The sales values have been determined by reference to 
external valuations of the fleet which contain assumptions 
about the global supply and demand for specific ship types 
and dry docking schedules.

In applying the external valuations, the directors have used 
their professional judgement to consider the impact of the 
specific dry docking schedule of the individual ships.

We evaluated the competency, qualifications and 
objectivity of the experts engaged by the Group to provide 
the valuations of the ships . 

We discussed the valuation methodologies and assumptions 
with the experts. This included understanding and 
evaluating the impact of the dry docking schedules on the 
determined values .

We tested, on a sample basis, the accuracy and relevance 
of the input data provided by the Group to the experts.

We compared the valuations of the individual ships with 
the valuations in the previous year. We also compared the 
selling prices of ships sold during 2017 and subsequent to 
the end of the year with the most recent valuations for each 
respective ship .

We compared the Group’s assertions and estimates 
regarding estimated useful lives and residual values with the 
previous year. 

We also considered whether the Group’s assessment of the 
condition of the ships and their future operating plans were 
consistent with historical experience and our knowledge of 
the business . 

Steamships Annual Report 2017       55

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT
to the Shareholders of Steamships Trading Company Limited

Goodwill impairment assessment

(Refer	to	note	12	of	the	financial	statements)

The Group has goodwill totalling K80.0 million at 31 
December 2017 after an impairment charge of K0.5 
million recognised during the year. In accordance 
with the accounting policy in note 1(n) of the financial 
statements, the Group has assessed the goodwill balance for 
impairment at 31 December 2017 and has recognised an 
impairment charge of K0.5 million during the year related 
to the Consort Express Lines cash generating unit .

The prolonged weakness in economic conditions in a 
number of the markets in which the Group operates in 
Papua New Guinea has increased the risk that the carrying 
values of the components of goodwill may be impaired.

The Group has calculated the value of the respective cash 
generating units containing goodwill balances based on 
financial models comprising cash flow projections. The 
cash flow projections use a number of forward looking 
assumptions, including revenue and cost growth, and the 
value calculation is sensitive to these .

We considered this a key audit matter because of the 
significant judgements around future revenues and costs, 
and the discount rate to be applied in determining the value 
of the cash generating units .

Recovery of deferred tax assets

(Refer	to	note	5(c)	of	the	financial	statements)

Of total carried forward tax losses of K46.4 million at 31 
December 2017 the Group has recognised a deferred tax 
asset relating to tax losses of K30.6 million. 

Accounting standards require deferred tax assets to be 
recognised only to the extent that it is probable that 
sufficient future taxable profits will be generated in order for 
the benefits of the deferred tax assets to be realised. These 
benefits are realised by reducing tax payable on future 
taxable profits.

We identified the recoverability of deferred tax assets as a 
key audit matter due to the judgement behind preparing 
forecasts to demonstrate the future utilisation of these 
losses in accordance with the requirements of accounting 
standards .

We have considered and tested the financial models used 
by the Group to determine the value of the cash generating 
units. We compared the models with the previous year’s 
models and found them to be consistently structured 
and consistent with the basis of preparation required by 
accounting standards .

We compared the forecast revenues and expenditures to 
approved budgets and obtained an understanding and 
evaluated the Group’s budgeting procedures, upon which 
forecasts are based. We also evaluated the reliability of 
estimates made by comparing forecasts made in prior years 
to actual outcomes .

We benchmarked the assumptions used around revenue 
and cost inflation with external forecasts, and the discount 
rates with our expectation based on the overall Weighted 
Average Cost of Capital (WACC) of the Group. Together 
with our valuation expert we reviewed the methodology 
used in determining the discount rate applied .

We performed sensitivity analysis on assumptions to 
ascertain the extent of change that would be required in 
key assumptions for the respective goodwill balances to be 
impaired. We determined that the calculations were more 
sensitive to inflation assumptions and discount rates and 
focused our testing on these assumptions .

We assessed the factors that led to the tax losses in previous 
years.

We examined the ability to carry forward the tax losses and 
the period over which the losses can be utilised against 
future taxable profits prior to expiry by reference to PNG 
taxation law .

We compared the forecast taxable profits to approved 
budgets and obtained an understanding and evaluated 
the Group’s budgeting procedures, upon which forecasts 
are based. We also evaluated the reliability of estimates 
made by comparing forecasts made in prior years to actual 
outcomes .

We benchmarked the assumptions used around revenue 
and cost inflation with external forecasts.

56       Steamships Annual Report 2017

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT
to the Shareholders of Steamships Trading Company Limited

Information other than the financial statements and auditor’s report 
The directors are responsible for the annual report which includes other information. Our opinion on the financial 
statements does not cover the other information included in the annual report and we do not express any form of assurance 
conclusion on the other information .

In connection with our audit of the financial statements, our responsibility is to read the other information and, in doing so, 
consider whether the other information is materially inconsistent with the financial statements or our knowledge obtained 
in the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated.  If, based on the work we have performed on the other 
information that we obtained prior to the date of this auditor’s report, we conclude that there is a material misstatement of 
this other information, we are required to report that fact. We have nothing to report in this regard.

Responsibilities of the directors for the financial statements 
The directors are responsible, on behalf of the Company for the preparation of financial statements that give a true and fair 
view in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards and other generally accepted accounting practice in 
Papua New Guinea and the Companies Act 1997 and for such internal control as the directors determine is necessary to 
enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

In preparing the financial statements, the directors are responsible for assessing the Group’s ability to continue as a going 
concern, disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless 
the directors either intend to liquidate the Company or any of its subsidiaries or to cease operations, or have no realistic 
alternative but to do so .

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the financial statements 
Our objectives are to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements, as a whole, are free from material 
misstatement, whether due to fraud or error, and to issue an auditor’s report that includes our opinion . Reasonable assurance 
is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with the ISAs will always detect a 
material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error and are considered material if, individually 
or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of 
the financial statements.

As part of an audit in accordance with International Standards on Auditing, we exercise professional judgment and maintain 
professional skepticism throughout the audit. We also:

• 

• 

• 

• 

 Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error, design 
and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate 
to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than 
for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the 
override of internal control .

 Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are 
appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Group’s 
internal control .

 Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related 
disclosures made by the directors. 

 Conclude on the appropriateness of the directors’ use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit 
evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt 
on the Group’s ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required 
to draw attention in our auditor’s report to the related disclosures in the financial statements or, if such disclosures are 
inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our 
auditor’s report. However future events or conditions may cause the Group to cease to continue as a going concern.

Steamships Annual Report 2017       57

INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT
to the Shareholders of Steamships Trading Company Limited

• 

• 

 Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the financial statements, including the disclosures, and 
whether the financial statements represent the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair 
presentation . 

 Obtain sufficient appropriate audit evidence regarding the financial information of the entities or business activities 
within the Group to express an opinion on the financial statements. We are responsible for the direction, supervision 
and performance of the Group audit. We remain solely responsible for our audit opinion.

We communicate with those charged with governance regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of 
the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our 
audit .

We also provide those charged with governance with a statement that we have complied with relevant ethical requirements 
regarding independence, and communicate with them all relationships and other matters that may reasonably be thought to 
bear on our independence, and where applicable, related safeguards .

From the matters communicated with those charged with governance, we determine those matters that were of most 
significance in the audit of the financial statements for the current period and are therefore the key audit matters. We 
describe these matters in our auditor’s report unless law or regulations preclude public disclosure about the matter or when, 
in extremely rare circumstances, we determine that a matter should not be communicated in our report because the adverse 
consequences of doing so would reasonably be expected to outweigh the public interest benefits of such communication.

Report on other legal and regulatory requirements 
The Companies Act 1997 requires that in carrying out our audit we consider and report on the following matters.  We 
confirm in relation to our audit of the financial statements for the year ended 31 December 2017:

•  We have obtained all the information and explanations that we have required;

• 

 In our opinion, proper accounting records have been kept by the Company as far as appears from an examination of 
those records .

Who we report to
This report is made solely to the Company’s shareholders, as a body, in accordance with the Companies Act 1997. Our 
audit work has been undertaken so that we might state to the Company’s shareholders those matters which we are required 
to state to them in an auditor’s report and for no other purpose. We do not accept or assume responsibility to anyone other 
than the Company and the Company’s shareholders, as a body, for our audit work, for this report or for the opinions we have 
formed .

PricewaterhouseCoopers

Christopher Hansor 
Partner

Registered under the Accountants Act 1996

Port Moresby
29 March 2018

58       Steamships Annual Report 2017

DIRECTORS’ REPORT
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year ended 31 December 2017

Steamships Trading Company Limited and Subsidiary Companies

The Directors submit their Annual Report for the year ended 31 December 2017 for the Company and its subsidiaries.                   

Principal Activities and Review of Operations

Full details of the Group’s activities are given in the Directors’ Review on page 7.  The Group continues to operate in the 
segments of Commercial, Hotels and Property, and Logistics.

The Directors believe that there will be no significant changes in the Group’s activities for the foreseeable future.

Changes in Accounting Policies

There are no changes in Accounting Policies in the year.

Result

The Group operating profit for the year attributable to shareholders was K41,516,000 (2016: K84,210,000).

Dividend

The Directors advise that a final dividend of 40 toea per share will be paid immediately after the Annual General Meeting on 
08th June 2018. This brings the total dividend declared for the year to 110 toea per share. Dividends payable to shareholders 
resident outside of Papua New Guinea will be converted to Australian Dollars at the prevailing rate which the Company is 
able to secure .

Rounding Off

Amounts in the Directors’ Report and accounts have been rounded off to the nearest thousand Kina.

Steamships Annual Report 2017       59

DIRECTORS’ REPORT
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year ended 31 December 2017

Experience & Interests Register 

Directors serving at the date of this report have disclosed the following experience and interests in shares in the Company 
and provided general disclosure of companies in which the Director is to be regarded as interested as set out below:  

G.L. Cundle

Chairman since 28 February 2015

Managing Director from 1 January 2013 to 12 January 2015

Member of the Remuneration Committee

Member of the Strategic Planning Committee

Director since 2013

Mr Cundle joined the Swire Group in 1979 and has extensive corporate experience having worked with the Group in 
various divisions in Hong Kong, Australia, Korea, Japan and Papua New Guinea. He was a Non-Executive Director of 
Steamships in 2006-2007 and Steamships Shipping General Manager from 1989-1992. He is a director of John Swire & Sons 
(PNG) Ltd. He was the Managing Director of Steamships Trading Company Limited from 1st January 2013 to 12th January 
2015. He is Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of John Swire and Sons (Australia) Pty Limited.

P. Aitsi MBE

Director since 17 November 2014

Mr Aitsi is currently the PNG Country Manager for Newcrest Mining Limited and serves as a director for various Newcrest 
PNG entities including the position of Chairman of Lihir Gold Limited. He was formerly the country manager for GHD 
(an engineering firm), former chairman of Transparency International PNG (currently a board member) and the founder 
Chairman of Digicel Foundation. He also serves on the boards of PNGFM, City Pharmacy Group, Leadership PNG and 
Kumul Consolidated Holdings.

G. Aopi CBE

Director since 1997

Mr Aopi has achieved several tertiary degrees in Papua New Guinea, and a Masters of Business Administration from the 
University of Queensland. Mr Aopi has substantial public service and business experience in PNG, including Secretary 
of Finance and Planning and Managing Director of Telikom PNG Limited. He presently holds the position of Executive 
General Manager, Stakeholder Engagement at Oil Search Limited and President of Chamber of Mines and Petroleum. He 
was previously the Chairman of Telikom PNG Limited and Independent Public Business Corporation (IPBC). Mr Aopi is a 
Director of Oil Search Limited and is involved in a number of other private sector and charitable organisations in Papua 
New Guinea.

Sir M.R. Bromley KBE 

Member of the Audit Committee

Member of the Remuneration Committee 

Member of the Strategic Planning Committee

Director, 1986 to 1996

Director since 2000

Sir Michael Bromley has extensive international business experience from over 40 years of operating and advising 
companies in countries including Singapore, Indonesia, Australia, Russia, China and Papua New Guinea, principally in retail 
and logistics operations. He is Chairman of Heli Niugini Ltd and a Director of Pegasus Print Group Pty Ltd, Fasteners & More 
Pty Ltd, Sonway Asia Ltd, Chemica Ltd, Sig No.1 Ltd, Glock No. 1 Ltd, Maps Tuna Ltd, Sek No. 35 Ltd, Hoia Investment Ltd, 
Venture Ltd and Viva No . 31 Limited .

Relevant Interest in Steamships shares: 19.99%

60       Steamships Annual Report 2017

DIRECTORS’ REPORT
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year ended 31 December 2017

D.H. Cox OL, OBE

Managing Director 2004 to 2012
Member of the Audit Committee
Member of the Strategic Planning Committee
Director since 2003

Mr Cox joined Steamships as a Manager in 1992, rising to become Managing Director from 2004-2012 . He has extensive 
experience in the Asia-Pacific business environment. He is also a Director of Charles Parsons (Holdings) Pty Ltd, Australia 
Pacific Technical College, Croesus Re SPC Ltd and holds a MBA in International Hospitality and BSc (Hons) in Accounting  
& Business Management.

G.J. Dunlop

Chairman of the Audit Committee
Member of the Strategic Planning Committee
Managing Director 2000 to 2003
Director since 1995

Mr Dunlop is a chartered accountant with extensive experience in the Pacific region. He is a Director of City Pharmacy 
Group Ltd, Credit Corporation (PNG) Ltd, Croesus Re SPC Ltd and Mainland Holdings Ltd.

Lady W.T. Kamit CBE

Member of the Audit Committee

Director since 2005

Lady Winifred Kamit is a former Senior Partner, and currently a consultant at Dentons (formerly Gadens Lawyers) in 
Port Moresby. Lady Kamit is a member of the Board of Trustee of the Papua New Guinea Institute of National Affairs, 
and a director of Anglicare PNG. She is a Director & Secretary of Bunowen Services Ltd, Kamchild Limited and Gadens 
Administration Services Ltd, a Director of Newcrest Mining Ltd (retired 14.11.2017), South Pacific Post Ltd and Chairman of 
ANZ Banking Group (PNG) Ltd.

P.W. Langslow

Managing Director from 12 January 2015

Mr Langslow joined the Swire group in September 1984. Prior to his present appointment, he spent 29 years with Cathay Pacific 
Airways where he held a number of country and regional management roles in India, Italy, Canada and Taiwan, then various head 
office department head roles responsible for inflight services, worldwide airports and cargo services. He is a director of John 
Swire & Sons (PNG) Ltd and various Steamships Trading Company subsidiaries, joint ventures and associate companies.  
He is a member of the PNG Institute of National Affairs Council and sits on the Salvation Army’s PNG advisory board.

M.R. Scantlebury

Finance Director & Company Secretary from 24 June 2016 

Mr Scantlebury is a chartered accountant and was previously Director of the Office for Financial Planning at Swire Pacific 
Ltd in Hong Kong and he has held various senior finance and commercial positions in the Swire group in his career. He is a 
director of John Swire & Sons (PNG) Ltd, Croesus Ltd and various Steamships Trading Company subsidiaries, joint ventures 
and associated companies .

B.N. Swire

Director from 1 January 2015

Mr. Swire joined John Swire & Sons in 1985 and has since worked at various times in Hong Kong, Papua New Guinea and 
Japan, concentrating on the Group’s marine businesses. He returned to the London Head Office in 1994 and is now the 
Chairman of John Swire & Sons, Ltd., as well as the Non-Executive Chairman of the China Navigation Co., Ltd., and a Non-
Executive Director of Swire Pacific Offshore Ltd and John Swire & Sons (Green Investments) Limited.

Direct and indirect beneficial interest 5.6%

J.H. Woodrow

Director from 7 September 2015

Mr Woodrow is Managing Director of the China Navigation Company Pte Ltd (Swire Shipping). He was formerly Director 
Cargo for Cathay Pacific (2013-2015) and General Manager Cargo Sales & Marketing for Cathay Pacific (2010-2013). He 
joined John Swire and Sons in September 1990 and spent 15 years in the sea freight industries in Japan and Australia. He 
was also a director of various companies across Asia including Air Hong Kong Ltd, Air China Cargo Ltd, Cathay Pacific 
China Cargo Holdings Ltd, Cathay Pacific Services Limited.

Steamships Annual Report 2017       61

DIRECTORS’ REPORT
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year ended 31 December 2017

Remuneration of Directors

Directors remuneration received or receivable from the Company as directors during the year, is as follows:

P. Aitsi,   
G. Aopi  
M.R. Bromley 
D.H Cox 
G.L Cundle (Chairman) 
G.J. Dunlop 
W.T. Kamit 
B.N. Swire 
J.H Woodrow  
P.W. Langslow* 
M.R. Scantlebury* 

2017 
K’000 

124 
124 
223 
223 
223 
247 
135 
124 
124 
- 
- 
1,547 

2016
K’000

124
124
223
213
223
247
135
124
124
-
-   

1,537 

The directors fees vary in accordance with the required duties on various sub-committees of the  board.

* Executive Directors receive no fees for their service as Directors during the year.

Remuneration of Employees

The number of employees whose remuneration and other benefits was within the specified bands are as follows: 

Remuneration 
K’000 

2017 
No. 

2016 
No. 

Remuneration 
K’000 

2017 
No. 

2016 
No. 

Remuneration 
K’000 

2017 
No. 

2016
No.

100-110 
110-120 
120-130 
130-140 
140-150 
150-160 
160-170 
170-180 
180-190 
190-200 
200-210 
210-220 
220-230 
230-240 
240-250 
250-260 
260-270 
270-280 
280-290 
290-300 
300-310 
310-320 
330-340 
340-350 
350-360 

7 
6 
4 
4 
3 
1 
2 
1 
2 
5 
1 
2 
- 
- 
1 
3 
2 
3 
2 
1 
2 
2 
2 
3 
4 

10
4
10
2
4
1
5
-
-
-
5
2
2
1
4
2
1
2
2
4
3
1
6
3
-

360-370 
370-380 
380-390 
400-410 
410-420 
420-430 
430-440 
440-450 
450-460 
460-470 
470-480 
480-490 
500-510 
510-520 
520-530 
540-550 
550-560 
560-570 
570-580 
580-590 
590-600 
600-610 
610-620 
620-630 
630-640 

1 
2 
2 
2 
1 
1 
2 
1 
1 
- 
1 
2 
1 
2 
1 
- 
1 
2 
1 
1 
- 
1 
1 
1 
3 

2
3
-
1
4
-
-
1
1
1
-
-
1
1
1
3
2
1
2
1
1
1
-
-
1

640-650 
650-660 
670-680 
680-690 
730-740 
740-750 
750-760 
780-790 
790-800 
800-810 
830-840 
870-880 
890-900 
910-920 
920-930 
970-980 
990-1000 
1,000-1,010 
1,010-1,020 
1,050-1,060 
1,070-1,080 
1,490-1,500 
2,270-2,280 
2,340-2,350 
2,520-2,530 

- 
- 
1 
2 
1 
2 
2 
1 
- 
1 
1 
1 
- 
2 
- 
- 
2 
1 
2 
1 
- 
- 
1 
- 
1 

2
1
-
1
-
2
2
-
1
2
-
-
2
-
1
1
-
-
-
-
1
1
-
1
-

For and on behalf of the Board: 

Port Moresby 
29 March 2018 

G.L. Cundle 
Chairman 

 P.W. Langslow 
Managing Director

62       Steamships Annual Report 2017

 
 
 
 
 
 
STOCK EXCHANGE INFORMATION
Steamships Trading Company Limited  Year ended 31 December 2017

Shares are listed on the Australian Securities Exchange and the Port Moresby Stock Exchange.
All shares carry equal voting rights.

Shareholdings
At 28 February 2018, there were 373 shareholders.

270  Holding 
Holding 
75 
Holding 
14 
Holding 
14 

1 
1,001 
5,001 
10,001 

- 
- 
- 
- 

1,000 units
5,000 units
10,000 units 
and over

The number of shareholders holding less than a marketable parcel was 20.

The 20 largest shareholders were: 

Number of shares 

John Swire & Sons (PNG) Limited 

Bell Potter Nominees Ltd 

National Superannuation Fund Ltd 

Berne No 132 Nominees Pty Ltd 

John E Gill Operations Pty Ltd 

Hylec Investments Pty Ltd 

Citicorp Nominees Pty Limited 

Kelvinside Pty Ltd 

Mr Malcolm Burns Reid 

Mr Ramesh Mahtani 

HSBC Custody Nominees (Australia) Limited 

Intercontinental Assets Pty Ltd 

Engoordina Pty Ltd 

Derrick Charles Whitaker 

Jennifer May Forbes 

Miss Shirin Moayyad 

Custodial Services Limited 

Mrs Mary Patricia Haughton 

Mrs Judith Scottholland 

Mrs Robin Anne Gostelow 

22,362,651 

5,760,000 

1,859,446 

446,494 

54,727 

31,361 

27,192 

25,000 

23,067 

21,700 

17,238 

15,000 

11,078 

10,348 

10,000 

10,000 

8,768 

8,161 

8,161 

7,393 

 %

72.12

18.58

6.00

1.44

0.18

0.10

0.09

0.09

0.07

0.07

0.06

0.05

0.04

0.03

0.03

0.03

0.03

0.03

0.03

0.02

30,717,785 

99.06

Applicable Legislation
The Company is incorporated in Papua New Guinea and is not generally subject to Australian Corporation Law including, 
in particular, Chapter 6 of the Australian Corporations Law dealing with the acquisition of shares (including substantial 
shareholdings and takeovers).  The Company is subject to the requirements of the Papua New Guinea Companies Act 1997, 
Securities Act 1997 and the Takeovers Code.  The Companies Act and the Securities Act regulate the issue and buy-back of 
shares and contain provisions as to the trading in securities, provisions as to financial benefits to related parties, substantial 
shareholders provisions, remedies in cases of oppression or injustice and actions by, and access to, records by shareholders.

The Takeovers Code regulates offers where a person already holds more than 20% of the voting rights in a company or 
where a person becomes the holder of more than 20% of the voting rights in a manner permitted by the Code.

A code offer, which can either be a full offer or a partial offer, must be extended to all holders of voting securities in the 
Company.  The Code also contains compulsory purchase and sale provisions if more than 90% of the shares are acquired 
under an offer .

Steamships Annual Report 2017       63

 
64       Steamships Annual Report 2017

Steamships Annual Report
COMPANY DIRECTORY 

CHAIRMAN
G. L. Cundle §&

MANAGING DIRECTOR 
P.W. Langslow

FINANCE DIRECTOR 
M. R. Scantlebury

NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS
P . Aitsi MBE
G. Aopi CBE
Sir M.R. Bromley KBE §+&
D. Cox OL, OBE +&
G.J. Dunlop +&
Lady W.T. Kamit, CBE +
B.N. Swire &
J. H Woodrow

+  Member of the Audit and Risk Committee 
§   Member of the Remuneration Committee 
&  Member of the Strategic Planning Committee

SECRETARY
M.R. Scantlebury  

REGISTERED OFFICE
Level 5, Harbourside West, Stanley Esplanade
Telephone:  +675 313 7400
P .O . Box 1
Port Moresby, NCD
Papua New Guinea

AUDITORS
PricewaterhouseCoopers
P .O . Box 484
Port Moresby, NCD 
Papua New Guinea

SHARE REGISTRARS
Computershare Investor Services Pty Limited
GPO Box 2975
Melbourne VIC 3001
AUSTRALIA
Telephone: (Aus)  1300 85 05 05
(Overseas) 
Fax: 

+61 (0)3 9415 4000
+61 3 9473 2500

STOCK EXCHANGE
Shares are listed on both the Port Moresby Stock Exchange 
Limited and the Australian Securities Exchange Limited .

A. R. B. N.
055 836 952