With the coming of independence for PNG, naturally both Ozzie domestic carriers had to sever their ties, starting in '73. APNG offered employment to existing staff from both airlines. Ansett took pilots who elected to leave, into the mainline, at the bottom. Some went to BNE as Fokker F/O's, some to MEL on jets.
TAA and Ansett did much for the development of the Territory in the 12 years they were there (commencing in '61 when Qantas pulled out) and their story needs telling. MAL's Caribou story is particulary interesting, being as how it was the version of the DHC 4A to fly in civilian colours, and how the Department of Civil Aviation would not recognise it's STOL capabilities for the ANO27 certification.