The National Capital District Commission (NCDC) is intensifying preparations for Papua New Guinea's entry into the NRL in 2028, with city leaders describing the project as a transformational opportunity for the country.NCD Governor Powes Parkop said Port Moresby must be ready to accommodate increased visitor numbers, economic activity and infrastructure demands when the PNG franchise enters the competition.He said, "The city must be 2028-ready. When teams, supporters and visitors come to Papua New Guinea, we must have the accommodation, health facilities, roads and services in place."Reappointed City Manager Ravu Frank agreed, describing the NRL's arrival as a catalyst for long-term social and economic development."I believe the inclusion of the PNG franchise in the NRL will permanently change the country," Frank said."It will impact our economy, our social development and many other sectors."Frank said NCDC management had already begun planning and preparing for the opportunities and challenges associated with the competition's arrival.Beyond 2028, both leaders highlighted rapid urbanisation as one of the capital city's greatest long-term challenges.Parkop warned that population growth would place increasing pressure on Port Moresby's infrastructure and services, requiring strategic planning and investment.He said, "We have to prepare for the future. By 2050, urbanisation will dramatically change our country, and our capital city must be ready."Frank said NCDC's vision aligns with broader national development goals and the city's ambition to become a modern, smart and sustainable urban centre."We want to help build the foundations for a smart country, smart people and a smart future," he said.With NRL 2028 on the horizon and major reforms underway, NCDC leaders say the next four years will be critical in shaping the future of Papua New Guinea's capital city.

Reappointed NCD City Manager Ravu Frank has vowed to continue reforms aimed at building a professional, merit-based public service within the commission.Speaking after securing a second term, Frank said improving human resource standards would remain one of his highest priorities over the next four years.He said, "When I started in 2022, my agenda was to professionalize NCDC. The organization is only as good as the people who work in it. We need qualified and experienced people who can effectively deliver services to the residents of Port Moresby."Frank said the commission would continue implementing reforms designed to strengthen recruitment, performance management, and workforce capability.Governor Powes Parkop said the reforms were one of the main reasons the board opted to reappoint Frank."For too long public institutions have suffered from appointments that were not always based on merit," Parkop said."Our vision is to build a professional organization where appointments are based on qualifications, experience and performance."Parkop noted that while Papua New Guinea has produced many national development plans over the years, implementation has often been the country's greatest challenge."We have great visions and plans, but we need competent people to turn those visions into reality," he said.The governor said the commission would continue restructuring efforts and would even subject the reforms to independent external review to ensure they deliver meaningful results.Both leaders agreed that building a strong and professional public service would be critical to supporting Port Moresby's future growth and development.

Mr. Frank Ravu has been reappointed as the National Capital District (NCD) City Manager for a second term, serving for another four years.The National Capital District Commission (NCDC) Board unanimously backed his reappointment to continue the leadership as the city prepare for major reforms and future growth.Announcing the decision was NCD Governor and NCDC Chairman Powes Parkop, who said the reappointment was based on merit, performance, and the need for continuity within the commission."Our board made the decision based on merit. We had our due process. The law requires us to assess the performance of the incumbent and there were two performance reports submitted during his four-year term."Parkop said the board's unanimous decision followed assessments by both the Department of Personnel Management and the Commission, which concluded that Frank had performed strongly during his first term."The most important reason for the reappointment is continuity," he said."We are at a critical stage in the journey of our capital city. We have undertaken major reforms over the last four years and we need to consolidate those gains."Frank, who joined NCDC in March 2001 as an engineer, thanked Governor Parkop, the board, commissioners and staff for their confidence in his leadership."I am humbled by the confidence placed in me and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the people of Port Moresby," Frank said.He acknowledged that there were other qualified officers within the organisation but said he was committed to continuing the reforms and initiatives already underway.Frank will now lead the Commission through its next phase of development, including preparations for PNG's entry into the NRL in 2028 and the city's long-term urban development plans.

The current Burleigh Bears Coach Luke Burt, who is the upcoming PNG Chiefs Assistant Coach, is excited to kick start his career with the Chiefs when he takes up his role in November 2027.Burt said he is eager to help build a strong foundation for the Chiefs as the club prepares for its historic entry into the NRL in 2028.He said, "I'm super excited about joining the Chiefs. I can't wait. I was talking to Michael on Friday and when I got off the phone, I felt like a little kid. That's how excited I was.“I'm looking forward to getting amongst it over here, being part of the Chiefs set-up and really buying into what we can archive in the NRL."Burt revealed he has already held several discussions with incoming head coach Willie Peters and believes they share a similar vision for the club's future."I've spoken to Willie plenty of times," he said."He's got a bit of work on at the moment over in the Super League, but I feel like our beliefs and the culture we want to bring really marry- up. I think it suits what we're trying to build here with the Chiefs."The former NRL player also praised the club's early recruitment efforts, highlighting the caliber of players already committed to the franchise."You can't fault those signings. They're pretty good signings," Burt said."You get players like Jerome Luai, Connor Watson, AJ and Matty Lees, who is a quality middle forward for England. Those guys bring experience and quality, and they'll help set standards for the club."While excited by the marquee recruits, Burt said developing local talent would remain a key priority."There's a lot of potential here, and it's our job to develop those players," he said."That's something I take a lot of pride in. Even at Burleigh, I've always enjoyed developing players and helping them reach the next level."If we can develop PNG players into NRL players, I think that would be a great story and a huge success for the club."Burt also commended the work already being done through the Chiefs' pathways system and believes the club is well-positioned ahead of its inaugural season."The pathways program is in a really good place at the moment," he said."From everything I've been told, a lot of good work is being done, and I think we're in a strong position heading into 2028. The timing feels right for PNG to enter the competition."Burt was asked also if young players like former Junior Kumuls representative, Philip Coats, could be a prospect for the PNG Chiefs; he responded by simply complementing the young gun. "We wouldn't say no to Philip, he is a great young talent, " he said with a smile. “"He's had a busy week travelling with the Broncos before making the trip over here, so we managed his workload a little. You never know what the future holds, but he's certainly a player with plenty of potential."

Former Junior Kumuls representative, Philip Coates described his return to Papua New Guinea (PNG) as a special moment after featuring for the Burleigh Bears against the PNG Hunters at Santos National Football Stadium over the weekend in Port Moresby.The young forward, who represented the Junior Kumuls in late 2024, said the opportunity to return home and play in front of family and local fans was something he had been looking forward to since the fixture was announced."The last time I was here was at the end of 2024 when I played for the Junior Kumuls," Coates said."I've been trying to get back ever since. It's always good coming back and playing on this field and in front of the fans, but also to see my family as well. It's always special coming back."Ever since we found out we were playing in PNG; it was really exciting. I really wanted to play."Coates has continued his development in the professional ranks and said the transition to a higher level of football has been made easier by the support of teammates and coaching staff.He said, "It's been really good. All the big boys have been really helpful with me, especially when I made my debut. The coaches and the boys have helped me throughout the week and made my job a lot easier."The talented youngster also revealed that representing the PNG Kumuls at the upcoming Rugby League World Cup remains one of his major goals."It would be an honour. It's definitely one of my goals this year to represent the Kumuls at the World Cup.“I've just got to keep doing what I'm doing and keep playing good footy. Hopefully the selectors and coaches have faith in me to be in the squad," Coates said.Coates credited senior players for helping guide his development, saying advice from experienced teammates has been invaluable as he continues to establish himself at a higher level.The forward also welcomed the arrival of PNG’s NRL franchise the PNG Chiefs, scheduled to enter the competition in 2028."I think it's a great thing for PNG to come in and showcase their local talent as well. It'll be great for them, “he said.Despite only spending a short period on the field against the Hunters, Coates said he was touched by the reception he received from the Port Moresby crowd."I only had five minutes, but the reception from the crowd was something I didn't expect," he said."Especially because I'm so young and I haven't been back in a while. To get that love from the people is very special. I'm very honoured."

SP PNG Hunters coach Paul Aiton believes his side's lack of experience and poor decision-making at crucial moments proved costly in their 22-12 loss to the Burleigh Bears at Santos National Football Stadium, in R13 of the QRL Hostplus Cup on Sunday.The Bears crossed for five tries to two to claim the victory, but Aiton felt the Hunters had created enough opportunities to win the match. "We put ourselves in a position to win that game again. We blew a lot of opportunities and made a lot of silly decisions on the field, but it all comes down to experience," Aiton said after the match. The Hunters matched the Bears for much of the contest and went into halftime locked at 12-12 after tries to Trevor Solu and Joel Gena, with Trevor Solu and Jamie Mavoko converting successful conversions. However, the visitors pulled away in the second half through tries to Ryan Foran and Lee Turner Rau, who finished with a double, while Guy Hamilton’s penalty goal further extended Burleigh's advantage. Aiton pointed to moments when players abandoned the game plan as a key factor in the defeat. He said, "When we were doing what we were trying to do, we looked really good. As soon as individuals started playing by themselves, that's when we started to fall apart, unfortunately." The former international believes his young squad is still developing and will benefit from more experience at Hostplus Cup level. "Some of those young players get a few more games under their belt; they'll probably know when to kick, when to pass the ball and when not to," Aiton said. The Hunters coach said the team would review the performance and continue working on maintaining discipline and structure throughout matches. "We'll go back, reassess, review it again and keep hammering those lessons until we're all on the same page," he said. Despite the disappointing result, Aiton thanked the Hunters faithful, who continue to turn out in strong numbers despite the team's challenging season. "Every week it's great. There's more and more people coming to support us and it gives me a good feeling because they want to win too," he said. "They're here to support the team and we want to win for them as well. We all want the same thing and we're hoping next week we can get that win for the fans." Aiton acknowledged the club is currently undergoing a transition period but assured supporters the team remains committed to improving and delivering results. "We appreciate all the supporters who are always behind us every week. Keep supporting us and we'll get that win for you."

Papua New Guinea's world-renowned dance crew, Wan Squad, departed Port Moresby yesterday, bound for Sydney, Australia, where they will represent the country at the prestigious International Dance League (IDL), regarded as the world's first professional global dance competition.The internationally acclaimed group travels with the backing of Mountain Dew and Pacific Industries Limited, which recently renewed its sponsorship partnership with the team for the 2026 season.Wan Squad has become one of Papua New Guinea's most successful international performing groups, earning global recognition after securing back-to-back world championship titles in the United States.Their achievements have elevated Papua New Guinea's profile on the international dance stage and inspired a new generation of young dancers across the country.The International Dance League brings together elite dance crews from around the world in a structured competition featuring rankings, championship titles and international exposure.Often described as the "NBA of dance," the league aims to professionalize the industry and provide athletes with opportunities to compete at the highest level.Family members, supporters and representatives from Pacific Industries Limited gathered at Jacksons International Airport to farewell the team ahead of their departure.Among those present was Pacific Industries Limited Chief Commercial Officer Chris Humphries, who expressed confidence in the team's ability to once again make Papua New Guinea proud."Today is an exciting moment not only for Wan Squad, but for Papua New Guinea," Humphries said."Over the years, this remarkable group of young athletes and performers has proven that PNG talent can compete with the very best in the world, and their back-to-back world championship titles in the United States are a testament to their dedication, discipline and passion."Humphries said the International Dance League marked an important milestone for both the sport and the team."As they embark on their first International Dance League campaign in Sydney, Mountain Dew and Pacific Industries Limited are proud to stand behind them. The International Dance League represents a new chapter in global dance, and it is fitting that Wan Squad is part of this historic movement as one of the world's elite crews," he said.He added that the company remained committed to supporting young Papua New Guineans who continue to excel on the international stage."On behalf of Pacific Industries Limited and the Mountain Dew brand, we wish the entire Wan Squad team safe travels and every success in Sydney. We have every confidence that they will represent Papua New Guinea with pride, professionalism and the same championship spirit that has earned them international recognition."Mountain Dew's continued sponsorship reflects the brand's commitment to youth development and supporting young Papua New Guineans who strive for excellence in their chosen fields.The partnership is founded on shared values of determination, creativity, courage and the drive to push beyond limits—qualities that have become synonymous with both Wan Squad and the Mountain Dew brand.The International Dance League is seen as a major step forward for the global dance industry, recognizing dancers as professional athletes whose years of training, sacrifice and discipline deserve international recognition. The competition provides pathways for dancers to pursue professional careers while competing against some of the world's best talent.For Pacific Industries Limited, supporting Wan Squad extends beyond sponsorship. It represents an investment in young Papua New Guineans whose success stories continue to inspire others through hard work, perseverance and achievement.As Wan Squad prepares to take on the world's elite crews in Sydney, the team carries with it the hopes of a nation eager to see its champions continue their remarkable journey on the international stage.

Papua New Guinea's internationally acclaimed dance crew, Wan Squad, departed Port Moresby on Sunday for Sydney, Australia, where they will compete in the prestigious International Dance League (IDL), a global professional dance competition bringing together some of the world's best crews.The team leaves with the support of long-time sponsor Mountain Dew and Pacific Industries Limited, whose sponsorship has funded the crew's campaign as they prepare to represent Papua New Guinea on another international stage. Speaking at Jacksons International Airport before departure, Wan Squad Creative and Managing Director Piaan said preparations for the competition began earlier this year and has seen significant changes to the team's structure. "Preparations have been really good. We started around February and March, and it's a lot different this year because we have a mega crew," Piaan said. "We've got 16 boys in the team, including three members from Australia who have joined us. We also have 12 new members who have come through our development program known as 'The Village'." Piaan said the development pathway has helped identify and nurture young talent from communities across Port Moresby and surrounding areas, creating opportunities for dancers to progress to the elite level. Wan Squad enters the competition with an impressive international pedigree, having claimed back-to-back world championship titles in the United States and becoming one of Papua New Guinea's most recognized performing groups. The International Dance League differs from traditional dance competitions by offering athletes a pathway into professional competition. "The World Hip Hop Dance Championship is where you represent your country and compete for a world title," Piaan explained. "The International Dance League is different because it creates a professional pathway. Teams can travel to multiple countries and become official professional franchises within the league. Think of it like the NRL, where you have established teams competing every season. That's what we're hoping to become one day." Mountain Dew has been Wan Squad's major sponsor for the past five years, a partnership Piaan described as critical to the team's growth and international success. "Mountain Dew's support is a huge deal for us," he said. "It's not just about Wan Squad. It's about inspiring other dancers, artists and creators throughout Papua New Guinea and showing them that we belong on the global stage." Beyond competition results, Piaan said the team's mission in Sydney is to showcase the culture and talent of the Pacific region to an international audience. "We want to go there and be seen, be heard, and represent the wealth of talent that exists throughout the Pacific. We want to represent not only Papua New Guinea but all Pacific Islanders." As one of the first Papua New Guinean dance crews to consistently compete and succeed internationally, Wan Squad has become a source of inspiration for aspiring dancers across the country. Asked what advice he would give to young dancers hoping to follow a similar path, Piaan emphasized the importance of commitment and perseverance. "Follow your dreams, follow your heart and follow your passion," he said. "Never give up. Consistency and work ethic play a huge role in success, and it's important to surround yourself with the right people." With a strengthened squad, growing international reputation and the backing of Mountain Dew, Wan Squad now turns its attention to Sydney, where it hopes to continue raising Papua New Guinea's profile and prove once again that local talent can compete among the world's best.

SP PNG Hunters CEO Scott Barker says the club remains confident of pushing for a top eight finish despite a challenging start to the season that has been compounded by injuries, suspensions and a significant loss of experience from last year's squad.Speaking ahead of the Hunters' clash against the Burleigh Bears, Barker acknowledged the team's struggles but said the focus remains on developing the next generation of Papua New Guinea rugby league talent."It has been a tough season so far, but I'd like to focus on the positives," Barker said.The Hunters lost 15 players from a squad of 32 at the end of last season, including several experienced campaigners who collectively accounted for more than 500 Queensland Cup appearances.According to Barker, the departures have created opportunities for emerging players to step into senior football."We had 10 players move on to overseas opportunities last year. While that's a loss for us in the short term, it opens the door for the next generation of PNG rugby league players to come in and show what they can do."Among those impressing this season is debutant McWin Worinu, who Barker said performed strongly in his first Queensland Cup appearance last weekend. He also praised the return of Limbi Henry, who has worked his way back into the side after injury setbacks.The Hunters' campaign has been further disrupted by an injury toll that currently stands at 11 players, while suspensions and concussion protocols have forced continual changes to the playing roster.Barker revealed coach Paul Aiton has not been able to field the same team twice this season."We've debuted with eight players already this year. That's almost as many as we debuted in the whole of last season. When you're constantly bringing young players into the team, consistency becomes difficult."Despite the setbacks, Barker believes the Hunters have remained competitive in most matches and are capable of climbing the ladder."Outside of a couple of poor halves of football, we've been in most games. If we can maintain our concentration and compete for the full 80 minutes, we can certainly pick up those close wins and push for a top eight spot."Barker also highlighted the importance of experience at Queensland Cup level, noting it can take players dozens of games before they feel fully comfortable competing week in and week out."This is part of the journey. We had a big reset at the end of last season and now we're building again. I'm comfortable with our staff, our systems, and the direction we're heading. If we keep working hard, I'm confident the results will come."

Several students were injured today following a violent clash at Paglum Adventist Secondary School (PASS) in the Mul-Baiyer-Lumusa District of Western Highlands Province.The confrontation reportedly broke out at around 7am and escalated before police units arrived and brought the situation under control.According to preliminary reports, the incident stemmed from a dispute between student groups.Unconfirmed reports from the scene allege that the conflict began after students discovered a firearm reportedly brought onto the school campus. Attempts to confiscate the weapon allegedly triggered the violence. These claims have not yet been officially verified by police or school authorities.Provincial Police Commander Chief Superintendent John Sagom confirmed that police responded to the incident and successfully contained the situation.While official casualty figures are still being confirmed, reports indicate that three male students sustained major injuries during the clash.One student is reportedly awaiting a CT scan, while two others have been treated and discharged. Several other students suffered minor injuries and received medical attention before being sent home.The unrest reportedly spilled beyond the school grounds, with reports suggesting that groups of students gathered near Koibuga Gate and stopped passing vehicles amid fears of further retaliation and concerns over weapons.Police remain deployed in the area to maintain law and order and prevent any further disturbances.Parents and guardians have been urged to contact their children and ensure their safety, while members of the public travelling through the Koibuga area have been advised to exercise caution.Authorities are continuing to assess the situation, and further information is expected once official statements are received from police and school administration.

SP PNG Hunters CEO Scott Barker says discussions with the incoming PNG Chiefs NRL franchise are progressing well as the club positions itself as a key development pathway for future professional players.Barker revealed the Hunters have been engaged in discussions with officials connected to the PNG NRL project for more than a year, with regular meetings already taking place between club and franchise representatives."We started some work about 12 months ago around what that affiliation might look like," Barker said."We've had a number of meetings and there is open dialogue between our coaching staff and their coaching staff. They're certainly taking an interest in what we're doing."Barker said the relationship is expected to strengthen as the PNG Chiefs NRL franchise continues to build towards its anticipated entry into the competition in 2028.The Hunters have long been regarded as the pinnacle of Papua New Guinea's rugby league pathway, but Barker believes the arrival of the NRL franchise creates even greater opportunities for local players."For a long period of time, the Hunters were at the top of the pathway. Now the franchise becomes the top of the pathway, and our role is to prepare players for that next level."Barker said the club is already working closely with franchise officials to identify and develop talent capable of earning positions in the future NRL squad.The Hunters CEO also addressed the progress of former Hunters players currently based in England with the London Broncos system.While acknowledging the standard of competition may not be as strong as some players had hoped, Barker believes the overseas experience remains invaluable."I wanted to see them go and experience what it's like to live and play in London. The Hunters' development is not just about what happens on the field, it's about personal growth off the field as well."Should those players return to Papua New Guinea before securing long-term opportunities in the United Kingdom, Barker said they would be welcomed back into the Hunters system."I'd love to see them come back, strengthen the Hunters and then push for a spot with the PNG franchise in 2028."Barker also confirmed the club remains open to recruiting experienced players from Australia or elsewhere if suitable opportunities arise and salary cap regulations permit."To build a pathway for our young players, you also need experienced players around them. If the right player becomes available and it fits within our rules and salary cap, it's certainly something we would look at."As the Hunters continue their rebuilding phase, Barker said the long-term objective remains clear: developing players capable of succeeding at the highest levels of the game and creating a sustainable pathway into Papua New Guinea's future NRL team.

The SP PNG Hunters were unable to overcome a fast-starting Tweed Seagulls outfit, falling 34-18 in their QRL Hostplus Cup R12 clash at the Preston Building Sports Complex in Piggabeen, Australia.The Seagulls capitalised on early momentum and maintained control for large periods of the match, scoring six tries to three to secure a strong home victory, while the Hunters were left to rue defensive lapses and missed opportunities in key moments.The home side struck early through Jett Liu in the third minute, with Lindon McGrady adding the conversion to give the Seagulls a 6-0 lead.The Hunters responded through centre Bruce Bawase, who finished off a strong attacking movement in the ninth minute. Halfback Trevor Solu added the conversion to level the scores at 6-6.However, the Seagulls quickly reasserted dominance, with tries to Adam Christensen and Sunny Kama helping them regain control. McGrady’s accuracy off the tee and a penalty goal further extended the margin, sending the Seagulls into halftime with a commanding 20-6 advantage.Any hopes of a Hunters comeback were dealt an early blow after the break when the Seagulls crossed twice in quick succession through Kyle Pickering and Christensen’s second try of the afternoon, pushing the score to 30-6.To their credit, the SP PNG Hunters continued to fight, with Bruce Bawase crossing for his second try in the 54th minute. Solu’s conversion reduced the deficit and briefly lifted visiting hopes.But the Seagulls sealed the result in the 67th minute when Jack Smith crossed to restore a comfortable buffer and shut down any remaining chance of a comeback.The Hunters finished strongly when Limbi Henry scored in the dying stages, with Solu maintaining his perfect kicking record with a third successful conversion.Bawase was a standout for the SP PNG Hunters, scoring two tries and consistently threatening the defensive line with strong carries. Solu also impressed, finishing 3-from-3 with the boot.For the Seagulls, Christensen scored a double, while Liu, Kama, Pickering and Smith all crossed in a polished attacking display. McGrady contributed 10 points and played a key role in controlling field position throughout the match.The result sees the SP PNG Hunters return home looking to regroup as the Hostplus Cup season continues.Match SummaryTweed Seagulls 34Tries: Jett Liu, Adam Christensen (2), Sunny Kama, Kyle Pickering, Jack SmithGoals: Lindon McGrady 4/6Penalty Goals: Lindon McGrady 1/1 SP PNG Hunters 18Tries: Bruce Bawase (2), Limbi HenryGoals: Trevor Solu 3/3Halftime: Tweed Seagulls 20-6 SP PNG HuntersVenue: Preston Building Sports Complex, Piggabeen