The Santos Cup will kick off this weekend with an expanded competition that continues to strengthen the pathway for women's rugby league in Papua New Guinea.Speaking at the official launch, PNG NRL Competition Chairman Adrian Chow said the third edition of the national women's competition marks another important milestone in the development of the sport."This is another important milestone for rugby league in Papua New Guinea as we launch the third year of the Santos Cup," Chow said.The competition, which began in 2024, will again feature six franchise teams, but this season has been expanded to include eight regular season rounds followed by a two-week finals' series. Matches will be played across Port Moresby, Lae, Goroka, Kokopo, and Mount Hagen.Chow said the competition continues to evolve, with players completing a mandatory five-week pre-season program aimed at raising standards across the board."We are building not just the competition; we are transforming our national sport into a truly inclusive platform for excellence," he said.He noted that the quality of women's rugby league has improved significantly since the inaugural season, with better speed, skill execution and fewer handling errors demonstrating the progress made when female athletes are provided with the right opportunities and support.Chow also thanked naming rights sponsor Santos and other partners, including the Australian Government's PacificAus Sports program, Kumul Mineral Holdings Limited and Digicel PNG, for their continued investment in the competition."Our partners are not just sponsoring a competition; they are investing in the empowerment of Papua New Guinean women and girls," he said.He encouraged supporters to get behind the competition as the new season begins, saying every match represents another step forward for women's rugby league in Papua New Guinea.

Traditional canoes from Jayapura, Indonesia are expected to make their first appearance at the National Kenu and Kundu Festival when the event is held in Alotau, Milne Bay Province, from 6–8 November.Festival Chairman Habona Tasman said the participation follows a commitment made by Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Belden Namah, who pledged to bring representative canoe teams from Jayapura in Indonesia and from Vanimo in the West Sepik province to this year's festival."The Minister has confirmed that canoes from Jayapura and Vanimo will be coming to the festival," Mr. Tasman said.While the number of canoes has not yet been confirmed, he said representative teams are expected to take part in what will be a historic first for the festival."This will be the first time we have participants from that side taking part in the festival," he said.Mr. Tasman said the invitation reflects the growing cultural relationship between Papua New Guinea and neighbouring Indonesia and follows previous cultural exchanges involving Milne Bay groups.He said organisers believe the addition of international participants will further enhance the festival's reputation as one of the country's leading cultural celebrations.The National Kenu and Kundu Festival showcases traditional canoe racing, cultural performances, arts and crafts, and the unique maritime heritage of Milne Bay and Papua New Guinea.This year's festival is expected to attract visitors from across the country and overseas as organisers continue preparations for the three-day event in November.

Preparations are progressing well for the 2026 National Kenu and Kundu Festival, with organisers confirming the annual cultural event will be held from 6–8 November in Alotau, Milne Bay Province.National Kenu and Kundu Festival Chairman Habona Tasman said planning is already underway, with the organising committee working closely with district coordinators and stakeholders to ensure another successful festival."Our first coordinators' meeting was held on June 10, and the second meeting is scheduled for July 10," Mr. Tasman said.He said coordinators from all four districts of Milne Bay Province will attend the meeting, along with a representative from the Mailu area on the Central-Milne Bay border, who is expected to participate in this year's festival.Mr. Tasman said the festival executive is also engaging with government agencies and private companies to secure sponsorship."We are working hard to secure sponsors, and several private businesses have already expressed interest in supporting this year's festival," he said.The chairman welcomed the continued support from the National Government, saying the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the PNG Tourism Promotion Authority (TPA) and the National Cultural Commission (NCC) have committed to supporting the event.He said Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Belden Namah visited Milne Bay in June and presented funding towards preparations for the festival.To complement sponsorship efforts, organisers recently hosted a fundraising dinner at APEC Haus in Port Moresby recently with support from Alotau Open MP Ricky Morris, Milne Bay Tourism Bureau Chairman, the festival's communications team and other supporters.The National Kenu and Kundu Festival is one of Papua New Guinea's premier cultural events, celebrating the country's maritime traditions, canoe-building heritage, music, dance and cultural diversity. Organisers are expecting strong participation from cultural groups across the country when the festival opens in November.

SP PNG Hunters forward Trevor Solu believes the club's difficult 2026 season is laying the foundation for future success, with experienced players working to develop the next generation of Hunters despite the team's struggles on the ladder.Ahead of this weekend's clash against the Wynnum Manly Seagulls, Solu acknowledged the Hunters have endured a disappointing season but said the squad remains united and committed to improving."We know we're in a difficult position and it's been a tough season. But we're working hard every day and the energy around the group is still positive. The focus now is to finish the season strongly and continue building."The Hunters have undergone significant changes this year following the departure of several senior players, forcing a new crop of young talent to adapt quickly to the demands of Queensland's Hostplus Cup competition.Solu said helping those emerging players develop has become one of the team's biggest priorities."When the younger boys get their opportunity, I tell them to just do their job and enjoy it. You don't want to put too much pressure on them because this competition is challenging. Every training session and every game is another chance to learn."As one of the club's senior players, Solu admitted the added responsibility has tested him throughout the season."It's been tough, but leadership comes with responsibility. Every day I challenge myself to work harder, lead by example and make sure I'm doing the right things both on and off the field."The experienced forward said the recent competition bye gave players time to reflect on the opening half of the season before returning with renewed focus."We went home, spent time with our families and reflected on where we are. Now it's about coming back together and working hard to improve."Despite sitting at the foot of the competition ladder, Solu said the playing group has not lost confidence in its ability or belief in the coaching staff."We believe in our coaches. They've played at the highest level and they know what it takes to help us improve. We're concentrating on ourselves and not worrying about outside opinions."He also dismissed suggestions that criticism on social media has affected the squad."Everyone has their own opinion, and that's part of the game. Our focus is on what we can control and getting better each week."Solu, who has played the full 80 minutes in several recent matches, said preparation and discipline remain key to his performances."I just try to prepare well at training, stay fit and make good decisions under fatigue. Whatever role the team needs me to play, I'm ready."While the Hunters' finals hopes have faded, Solu said the lessons learned this season would help shape a stronger team in the future."There are a lot of young players gaining valuable experience this year. If we keep working hard and stay together, the results will come."Solu also thanked the Hunters' loyal supporters for standing by the club during one of its most challenging campaigns. "We know our fans don't want to see us at the bottom, and neither do we. All we ask is that they continue believing in us. Everyone in this team has sacrificed a lot to wear the Hunters jersey, and we're determined to reward that support by finishing the season on a positive note."

The PNG Chiefs believe the recent historic signing of the club's first Papua New Guinean-born players is about much more than rugby league.For Chief Executive Officer Lorna McPherson, the announcement signals the beginning of a pathway that generations of young Papua New Guineans have dreamed of.Standing alongside General Manager – Football Michael Chammas, McPherson said the signing of Morea Morea, Finley Glare and Gairo Voro represented a turning point for the nation.McPherson said, "I don't feel it's about signing the players. For me, it's about possibilities for Papua New Guinea. It's about every boy and girl throughout our country believing their dreams matter."The three players have become the first Papua New Guinean-born footballers to sign with the PNG Chiefs, agreeing to two-year development contracts ahead of the club's entry into the NRL in 2028.McPherson said the milestone reflected years of investment in grassroots rugby league and player development.She said, "I have to acknowledge the PNG Rugby Football League (PNGRFL), the Hunters and everyone involved in building these pathways. This reflects every bit of hard work that has gone into rugby league in this country."She said the Chiefs were determined to become more than just another professional sporting club."We are building more than a rugby league club. We're building belief that Papua New Guinea deserves a seat at the table. We're creating a pathway where every child has hope and every child can see a future."General Manager – Football Michael Chammas echoed those sentiments, describing the signings as the beginning of a new chapter rather than the final destination."Today is bigger than three players. It's about showing every young Papua New Guinean that if they work hard, stay disciplined and make sacrifices, the opportunity will come."Chammas revealed the club had identified the trio during a visit to England, where they met with the players while they were competing with the London Broncos.Rather than immediately offering contracts, the Chiefs allowed the players time to consider the opportunity before formalising the deals.Chammas said, "We made it clear that we saw them as part of our future. They've earned this opportunity through hard work and dedication."Although signed on development contracts, the players will train full-time with the Chiefs and remain eligible to push for selection in the NRL squad.Chammas said their progress over the next 18 months, including performances during the Rugby League World Cup and domestic competitions, would determine whether they graduate into the club's Top 30 roster."They have the opportunity now. The next chapter is theirs to write."With more player signings expected over the coming months, the Chiefs remain committed to building a competitive roster while ensuring Papua New Guinean talent remains at the heart of the club.For McPherson, however, Thursday's announcement will be remembered for something far greater."This is for Papua New Guinea. It's only the beginning," she said.

SP PNG Hunters coach Paul Aiton has appealed to supporters to rally behind his young playing group, saying criticism on social media is adding unnecessary pressure to a team already battling injuries and inexperience.Ahead of Sunday's Hostplus Cup clash against the Wynnum Manly Seagulls, Aiton acknowledged supporters' passion but urged fans to remember the Hunters are rebuilding with a youthful squad."There's a lot of outside noise," Aiton said."I understand because our supporters are passionate, but there's also a lot of pressure on these young men."Aiton said players were not immune to criticism circulating online."You can't tell players not to look at social media, but they're young people and that's part of life now. They're getting pressure at training, pressure from outside, and pressure from family as well. We're trying to take some of that pressure off them," he said.The Hunters have fielded several debutants this season after a lengthy injury toll forced continual changes to the squad.According to Aiton, many players have only managed a handful of games before injuries disrupted their progress, making consistency difficult.Despite the club's struggles, Aiton said he had been encouraged by the commitment shown by his players, particularly during last week's defeat when the Hunters played much of the game with 12 men following the dismissal of Sonny."The scoreline didn't show it, but the effort from our players when we were a man down was next level. A lot of players really stood up."Aiton said the Hunters continued to review every performance and remained focused on developing the next generation of players, with emerging talent from the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup and National Youth Competition already being monitored for future opportunities.He finished with a heartfelt message to supporters."Our second pillar as a club is family. In Papua New Guinea, when someone in the family is doing it tough, everyone comes together to support them. I appeal to our fans to get behind these young men. Some have only played one or two games and they're getting blasted on social media.""I don't think that's family. We're all one family, so let's come together and show these boys the support they deserve," said Aiton.

As dry conditions continue to grip parts of the country, the National Department of Health (NDoH) is urging the public to take precautions against dehydration, respiratory illnesses and waterborne diseases, warning that prolonged dry weather and dwindling water supplies could pose serious health risks if preventive measures are not followed.Deputy Secretary for Public Health Ken Wai said scientists had warned of an extended dry period that could result in water shortages, dusty conditions and increased health risks for communities."We have this long dry season coming up, and scientists are warning us that there is an El Nino event occurring," Wai said."As water sources begin to dry up, there will be more dust in the atmosphere, which can increase the risk of respiratory illnesses such as pneumonia."Wai encouraged parents to ensure children limit outdoor activities in dusty conditions and to consider wearing face masks when necessary to reduce exposure."Children should avoid playing in dusty areas because dust can cause pneumonia," he said."Where possible, wear a mask and stay away from dusty environments."The Health Department also warned that prolonged exposure to hot weather could lead to dehydration, particularly among children, older people, and those working outdoors.Wai advised the public to drink plenty of fluids and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day."If you need to be outside, do so early in the morning or later in the afternoon," he said."Avoid being outdoors under the hot sun during the middle of the day because the risk of dehydration is high."With many communities expected to experience reduced water supplies, Wai urged people to ensure drinking water is safe before consumption."If your normal water source has dried up and you are collecting water elsewhere, make sure you boil it first, allow it to cool and then drink it," he said."Do not drink untreated water because it can lead to diarrhoea, dysentery, typhoid fever and other waterborne diseases."He also reminded the public to wash their hands before handling food to help prevent the spread of illness.Wai said the NDoH was preparing for the anticipated health impacts of the dry season but stressed that prevention remained the most effective way to reduce illness."Prevention is better than cure," he said."We are preparing for these conditions, but the public also has an important role to play by protecting themselves from dust, drinking safe water, staying hydrated and practising good hygiene."He further urged communities to take extra care with open fires during the dry season to reduce the risk of bushfires and house fires.The Department of Health is encouraging all Papua New Guineans to remain vigilant throughout the dry season and to seek medical attention if they experience symptoms of dehydration, respiratory illness or severe diarrhea.

SP PNG Hunters coach Paul Aiton believes his youthful side has what it takes to challenge the Wynnum Manly Seagulls despite another week of injury setbacks ahead of Sunday's Hostplus Cup clash in Brisbane.The Hunters travel to BMD Kougari Oval looking to avenge their Round Two defeat to the Seagulls and improve on a difficult season that has been hampered by injuries and inexperience.Aiton said his side had remained positive despite mounting challenges throughout the year."There's a lot of outside noise, which is unfortunate, but internally we've changed things around a lot," Aiton said."This game is meant to be fun, and we've brought more of that enjoyment back into our training sessions. There's something building within this group."The Hunters have again been forced to reshuffle their line-up, with Joel Gena and Seal Kalo both in doubt through injury, while promising youngster Felix Beki could make his Hostplus Cup debut.Aiton said injuries had provided opportunities for several emerging players this season."We've had a lot of debutants and possibly another one this weekend," he said."Every week we've lost players through injury, but that gives another young player the opportunity to wear the Hunters jersey."The coach pointed to the lack of experience within the squad, revealing that the team's left-edge combination last weekend had fewer than 30 Hostplus Cup games between them."That just shows the inexperience in our side, but we were able to match our opponents in the first half until Sanny was unfortunately sent off."Despite sitting at the bottom of the ladder, Aiton expects another tough contest against the Seagulls."They're a very well-coached side and they've got some really big men, but our boys will be ready for the battle."The Hunters will also welcome back Whallan Tau-Loi from suspension, with Aiton describing his return as a significant boost."He's a great player who does so much work for us. He doesn't always get the accolades, but he's a massive part of our team and we're really happy to have him back."Aiton said the final seven rounds of the season remained important, not only for the club but also for players hoping to force their way into the PNG Kumuls squad ahead of the Rugby League World Cup."There's still plenty of football left and it's a chance for players to put their hand up and show what they can do."

SP PNG Hunters rising talent McWin Worinu says every appearance at the Queensland Rugby League (QRL) level has been a valuable learning experience as he continues to establish himself in the club’s senior squad.After making his debut earlier this season, Worinu has now played three matches for the Hunters, describing the journey as both challenging and rewarding following a frustrating period on the sidelines through injury.“The first three games were a little bit tough for me because I'd been out with injuries and was struggling a little,” Worinu said."But ever since I was a kid, I have always had the desire to play. Coming back from injury, I never thought I'd get the opportunity to make my debut this year.”“Everything happened so fast after my first game against the Tweed Seagulls, and now I've played three games.”Worinu admitted the step up from the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup to the QRL has been significant but said he is embracing the challenge.“It is a different level from what we are used to in the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup. To be here, experiencing new opportunities and learning every week, it's really a blessing for me.”Originally from Mt Hagen in Western Highlands province, Worinu only began his representative rugby league journey in 2023 with Croton Hela Wigmen before earning a call-up to the Hunters’ pre-season squad late last year.“I started playing with the Kroton Hela Wigmen in 2023. Around November last year, I got the call to join the Hunters’ pre-season, and now I am here.”“Making the SP PNG Hunters has long been a personal ambition,” he said.“Playing for the Hunters has always been my dream. I have worked towards it every week through my football and my performances.”“Achieving that goal means a lot, and now I'm looking forward to reaching the next level.”Despite the Hunters enduring a difficult campaign, Worinu remains focused on improving his own game while trusting the coaching staff to guide the team forward.“Obviously, we have been struggling this year, but that’s something for the coaches to work through,” he stated. “For me, I just want to keep learning as much as I can and improve as a player.”Worinu also praised the leadership within the squad, crediting the team’s captain for keeping spirits high during a challenging season.“Our skipper has been a big influence. He is always turning negatives into positives. We look up to him because he keeps motivating us, no matter what is being said from outside the club.”“People do not always see the work we put in every day, from morning until the evening. It has been a tough year, but our skipper is always there encouraging the boys.”Meanwhile, Worinu will miss this weekend’s match after receiving a one-game suspension but remains confident the Hunters can produce a strong performance.“We want the win just as much as everyone else. The boys have prepared well this week, and we are really looking forward to the game.”Although disappointed to miss the clash, Worinu said the suspension was a learning experience.“It is all part of the game. I will learn from it, move on, and keep working hard.”

The PNG Chiefs have revealed that work on the club's official logo is in its final stages, with Chief Executive Officer Lorna McPherson promising supporters a uniquely Papua New Guinean identity when it is unveiled later this year.McPherson said the club had been working closely with local designers to ensure the logo genuinely reflected Papua New Guinea and its people."We have been working with Papua New Guinea to develop the logo, and we do have something that we're nearly ready with," McPherson said."I think it'll be a few months before we reveal it, but believe me, when we do, it'll be very special."McPherson said the design process had involved extensive consultation and debate to create an emblem that the country could proudly identify with."What I can tell you is the design has been designed by Papua New Guineans," she said."It has not been easy to do. There's been a lot of debate, but we've worked with some of our young Papua New Guineans throughout the process."She also acknowledged the contribution of General Manager – Marketing Peggy Maha and her team in shaping the club's visual identity."I'm very proud to have Peggy on our team and to have her experience in marketing helping guide this process," McPherson said.While acknowledging that supporters will inevitably have differing opinions once the logo is unveiled, McPherson said the club had embraced those discussions throughout its journey."Everybody has an opinion, especially in Papua New Guinea," she said with a smile."We had name specialists when we announced the club's name, and we'll probably have logo specialists as well. I accept that."Despite the differing views, McPherson said supporters could expect a logo that authentically represents the nation's culture and identity."I am sure you'll be very proud of it," she said.The official logo is expected to be unveiled in the coming months as the PNG Chiefs continue preparations for their inaugural NRL season in 2028.

The PNG Chiefs have taken another major step towards their inaugural NRL season, announcing the signing of the club's first-ever Papua New Guinean-born players on full-time development contracts.Morea Morea, Finley Glare and Gairo Voro have each signed two-year development deals, marking a historic moment not only for the expansion the club but for rugby league in Papua New Guinea.PNG Chiefs General Manager – Football Michael Chammas described the announcement as one of the most significant moments in the club's history."Today marks a monumental occasion for this club, but an even more significant moment for this country," Chammas said."When I first arrived, we made a commitment that this club would provide a platform for young Papua New Guinean boys and girls to achieve greatness. Today, that promise begins to become reality."Chammas said the signings represented far more than three contracts."This is about three families who have sacrificed so much, three villages that have nurtured these young men, and an entire country that has waited generations to see this opportunity become possible."The trio will join the Chiefs on full-time development contracts as the club prepares for its entry into the NRL in 2028.While not yet members of the club's Top 30 squad, Chammas said each player had a genuine opportunity to earn an upgraded contract through their performances over the next 18 months.He said, "This is not an end point. It's the beginning. They'll train with us full-time, and they'll have every opportunity to prove they belong alongside some of the elite players we've already signed. Nothing is owed to anyone. Everything has to be earned."Chammas said the club remained committed to ensuring the Chiefs reflected Papua New Guinea while maintaining high performance standards."We've made it clear this needs to be a Papua New Guinean team, but selection will always be earned."The General Manager also acknowledged the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League, the SP PNG Hunters, the Kumuls program and the London Broncos for their role in developing the three players."We're standing on the shoulders of people who have worked for years to create these pathways."Chief Executive Officer Lorna McPherson said the announcement represented hope for young people across the country."For me, today isn't just about signing three players. It's about possibilities for Papua New Guinea," McPherson said."It's about every boy and girl across our nation believing that their dreams matter."McPherson said the Chiefs were building more than an NRL club."We're building belief in Papua New Guinea. We're building the belief that we deserve a seat at the table. We're creating a pathway where every child has hope and every child can see a future."Having watched the three players develop through local pathways, McPherson said seeing them become the first locally born players signed by the Chiefs was a proud moment."This is for every person who has worked to grow rugby league in Papua New Guinea. It's never been easy but today shows that the hard work is paying off."The three players are expected to continue their development before joining the Chiefs for their inaugural NRL campaign in 2028, with club officials confident they have the talent to eventually secure full Top 30 contracts.The announcement is another significant milestone as the PNG Chiefs continue assembling their inaugural roster following the signings of established NRL players Jerome Luai, Alex Johnston, Connor Watson and Matty Lees.

Former Australian rugby league star, commentator and Australian rugby league media personality, Matthew Johns has described Papua New Guinea's entry into the National Rugby League (NRL) in 2028 as "long overdue", saying no country in the world has a greater passion for the game.Johns arrived at the Jacksons International Airport this afternoon for an official visit, where he was welcomed by local media before meeting with rugby league stakeholders.Speaking shortly after his arrival, Johns said it was a pleasure to return to Papua New Guinea for the first time in two decades."It's good to be back in PNG. Exciting times," he said.Johns recalled visiting the country 20 years ago with Australia's The Footy Show, describing the trip as one he had never forgotten. He also reflected on Papua New Guinea's long-standing contribution to rugby league, particularly through players who competed in Australia's premier competition.He remembered former Papua New Guinean players Arnold Krewanty and Darrell Bampton, who represented the Newcastle Knights, and noted his family's connection to PNG players through the game.The former New South Wales Origin representative said Papua New Guinea's admission into the NRL was a historic moment for the country and the sport."This country is the only place in the world where rugby league is the national sport," Johns said."No one loves the game more than the people in PNG. I'm just so happy for you guys to have a team. It's long overdue."Johns expressed confidence in the leadership assembling the new franchise, praising incoming coach Willie Peters and those working behind the scenes to establish the club."I know there's plenty of players who want to come here," he said.Although Johns is part-owner of the Gold Coast Titans, he said he was excited to see Papua New Guinea join the NRL competition because of what it would mean for rugby league across the region."Rugby league has never been better than it is at the moment," he said."Everything about the game is booming in the Pacific, Australia and New Zealand. It's a great time for PNG to enter the competition, and everyone back home in Australia is really excited."When asked who he would like to see sign with the new PNG franchise, Johns jokingly replied, "Andrew Johns," referring to his younger brother and rugby league Immortal.During his visit, Johns is also expected to meet Prime Minister James Marape.He described the invitation to visit Papua New Guinea as "a great honour" and said he appreciated the opportunity to return.Asked whether he had any concerns about travelling to Papua New Guinea, Johns dismissed them with a smile."I always feel safe. I'm a people person. I'll be fine," he said, before joking, "And I know karate."