The Minor Semi Final of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup 2024 saw the thrilling Kroton Hela Wigmen overpower the Lae Snax Tigers 32-12, at the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby. The Wigmen displayed their dominance early on, with Woodie Kawage opening the scoring in the 15th minute. Kawage, playing as the hooker, was influencial throughout the match, adding another try in the 79th minute to seal the victory. Wigmen fullback Kaupa Sipa added to the Wigmen's tally with a try in the 37th minute with his agility and speed. Trevor Solu, who came off the interchange bench, made a significant impact, scoring a try in the 50th minute and successfully converting four out of five attempts. Solu's performance was pivotal, as he also added two penalty goals in the 59th and 62nd minutes, further extending the Wigmen's lead. Terence Wemin, playing at centre, contributed with a try in the 72nd minute, showcasing his strength and precision. The Lae Snax Tigers, despite their efforts, managed only two tries, both scored by winger Dickson Otto in the 21st and 31st minutes. Otto's performance was commendable, but the Tigers struggled to keep up with the Wigmen's relentless attack. Jacky Winas, the halfback, converted one of Otto's tries and added a penalty goal in the 8th minute, but it wasn't enough to turn the tide in their favor. The match highlighted the Wigmen's strategic play and effective use of their players, with Solu's contributions being particularly instrumental. The Tigers, on the other hand, will need to regroup and address their defensive lapses as they prepare for future challenges. The Wigmen's victory not only advances them further in the competition preliminary finals against the Enga Mioks but also cements their reputation as a formidable team in the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup 2024 Season.

The Major Semi Final of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup 2024 saw a close contest, the Wamp Nga Mt. Hagen Eagles edged out the KMH Enga Mioks with a 16-12 victory at the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby. The Eagles' triumph was marked by a strong start, with second rower Wari Rex scoring two tries in the 22nd and 30th minutes showcasing his strength and agility. The Eagles' captain, Henry Wan, added another try in the 58th minute, solidifying their lead. Despite missing all three conversion attempts, the Eagles managed to secure the win with two penalty goals by Sakias Komati in the 5th and 51st minutes. The KMH Enga Mioks fought valiantly, with their captain Roger Kenny scoring a try in the 35th minute. Kenny, playing at lock, led by example, demonstrating his leadership and skill. Kumul Kaupa, the five-eighth, added another try in the 77th minute and successfully converted both tries, keeping the Mioks within striking distance. However, their efforts fell short as the Eagles' defense held firm in the closing stages of the match. The Eagle’s ability to capitalize on their opportunities, despite their conversion struggles, proved decisive. The Mioks, on the other hand, will need to reflect on their performance and address their shortcomings as they prepare for future Preliminary Finals against the Kroton Hela Wigmen. The Eagles' victory not only advances them to stand by the for the Grand Final in the competition but also underscores their resilience and determination in the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup 2024 season.

The elimination round of the Host Plus Cup saw the SP PNG Hunters secure a commanding victory over the Wynnum Manly Seagulls with a final score of 23-8, at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby. The Hunters started strong, but it was the Seagulls who opened the scoring with a try by Connor Broadhurst in the 8th minute, followed by a successful conversion from Bryce Donovan. Including Donovan adding a penalty goal at the 16th minute, giving the Seagulls an early lead of 8-0. However, the Hunters quickly responded with Brandon Nima scored the first try for the Hunters at the 20th minute, followed by Judah Rimbu at the 25th minute. Jamie Mavoko successfully converting one out of two goals, bringing the score to 10-8 in favour of the Hunters. Sanny Wabo added another try at the 27th minute, with Mavoko converting again, extending the lead to 16-8 by halftime. The Hunters continued their dominance in the second half. Robert Mathias scored a try at the 59th minute, and Mavoko once again converted, making it 22-8. The Seagulls struggled to break through the Hunters' defence and were unable to add any points in the second half. In the final moments of the game, Joshua Lau sealed the victory for the Hunters with a one-point field goal at the 78th minute, bringing the final score to 23-8. The Papua New Guinea Hunters' victory over the Wynnum Manly Seagulls in the elimination round was a testament to their resilience and skill. With standout performances from key players and a solid defensive effort, the Hunters have advanced to the next stage of the Host Plus Cup finals. Fans can look forward to more exciting rugby league action as the competition heats up.

The International Training Institute (ITI) Celebrates 16th Anniversary Founders Day at the Taurama Aquatic Center on Friday 30th August in Port Moresby. The ITI Founders Day represents a special day to honor and commemorate the Late ITI Co-Founder Professor Sentheyval Thuraiappah, acknowledging and embracing his commitment to creating opportunity in the academic welfare of underprivileged youth since Papua New Guinea’s Independence. The Founders Day is a public holiday to all ITI establishments around the nation, and also acts as a platform to acknowledge other deceased ITI members, students or staff to be honored and respected. The Founders Day was also a fun day with competitive fun games with the school staff competing with students, along with presentations and entertainment for the enjoyment of the staff and the student body. ITI Assistant Manager and member of the Founders Day Committee, Mary Kamasunga told PNG HAUSBUNG that the day represents a day to share sorrow but translated through positive activities for students and staff to interact and openly communicate in a fun and enjoyable space. Furthermore, she emphasized that it's a fun space for socializing between the students and staff, especially for the new students which can help break barriers between them and other students and teachers. With the teams divided through their courses including the Staff, the event saw Basketball, Volleyball and Dart as the major games due to the space limit. Students also performed songs and dances during lunch. The entire day was a full house with students having fun and making memories with their peers and teachers.

As the Queensland Rugby League Hostplus Cup enters Finals Week 1, every match has significant implications for the teams involved. The outcomes of these matches could dramatically alter the standings, making this a decisive weekend for all eight teams. Here’s a breakdown of what’s at stake for each team based on their potential wins or losses. Pride vs Falcons (1st vs 4th) Pride: Currently sitting comfortably at the top of the ladder with 40 points, Pride's position as the regular-season leader is secure. A win against the Falcons would further cement their dominance and maintain their momentum heading into the subsequent rounds. Even with a loss, Pride would remain in the top spot due to their superior points difference (+352) and win record. However, a loss could shake their confidence and give the other top teams hope of catching them in the finals. Falcons: In 4th position with 30 points, the Falcons are in a precarious situation. A win against Pride could propel them up the ladder, depending on the outcomes of the Devils and Dolphins match. If the Falcons win and either the Devils or Dolphins lose, the Falcons could potentially climb to 3rd place, enhancing their prospects in the finals. A loss, however, would likely see them remain in 4th place, but with pressure from the teams below, they could slip further down if results don't go their way. Devils vs Dolphins (2nd vs 3rd) Devils: The Devils, tied with the Dolphins on 32 points, hold 2nd place due to their superior points difference (+219). A win against the Dolphins would solidify their position in the top two, giving them a crucial advantage moving forward in the finals. A loss, on the other hand, could see them drop to 3rd place, especially if the Dolphins secure a win. In a worst-case scenario, the Devils could even drop to 4th if the Falcons win their match and the points difference shifts unfavorably. Dolphins: The Dolphins are in a similar position to the Devils, with 32 points and a points difference of +202. A victory over the Devils would allow them to leapfrog into 2nd place, a crucial move that could set them up for a stronger finals campaign. If they lose, they risk falling to 4th place if the Falcons manage to defeat Pride. The Dolphins must win to ensure they maintain or improve their position on the ladder. Hunters vs WM Seagulls (5th vs 8th) Hunters: With 30 points, the Hunters sit in 5th place and are on the cusp of breaking into the top four. A win against the 8th placed WM Seagulls could potentially see them move up to 4th place, especially if the Falcons lose their match. This would be a significant boost for the Hunters as they push deeper into the finals. A loss, however, would not only prevent them from moving up but could also see them slip further down the ladder if the Capras or Bears win their respective matches. WM Seagulls: Positioned 8th with 27 points, the WM Seagulls are fighting to stay in the finals race. A win could see them move up to 7th place, depending on the outcome of the Capras vs Bears match. However, their points difference (-16) means that even with a win, their position might not improve drastically. A loss would almost certainly end their finals hopes, as they would remain in 8th place or potentially drop lower if other results go against them. Capras vs Bears (6th vs 7th) Capras: The Capras, currently in 6th place with 28 points, are within striking distance of the top five. A win against the Bears could see them solidify their position or even move up to 5th if the Hunters falter. A loss, however, could see them drop to 7th, depending on how other matches play out, which would make their path through the finals much more difficult. Bears: The Bears are just one point behind the Capras, sitting in 7th place with 27 points. A win could propel them above the Capras into 6th place or even 5th, depending on the outcome of the Hunters match. However, a loss would likely see them remain in 7th or drop to 8th, which would be a severe blow to their final's aspirations. The finals Week 1 with so much on the line, promises to be a thrilling and crucial round in the 2024 Queensland Rugby League Hostplus Cup. The current teams have something to fight for, and the outcomes of these matches could reshape the ladder, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the season. Whether battling for top spot security or fighting to keep their finals hopes alive, each team will need to bring their A-game to the field.

New singer and song writer of the popular song “Go Bek,” Loyd Dau better known by his stage name “Mavn LKLD” made it on 93 Yumi FM’s Top 20 Countdown for more than a month. Upon receiving this news, Mavn emphasized that it was an unexpected turn of event as he was simply having a good time making music with his colleagues and producers. However, this exciting new achievement has inspired him to make more music for his fans and help promote the local studio Stingray Records. Loyd told PNG HAUSBUNG that a musical collaboration between local lyrical genius and well-loved singer Saii Kay and himself will soon surface. Mavn LKLD will be releasing two more singles soon following his newly released song “Tingim Yu” featuring Stingray Records Studio Producer “Vyto.” Taking the name “Mavn” from his concerned mothers for his productive traits at home, he has fully embraced this name adding his own tune “LKLD” to fully satisfy and solidify his stage name. Loyd stated the famous single “Go Bek” originated from his experience while residing and work travels throughout West New Britain, East New Britain and Bougainville. The song symbolized the common young relationship nature of girl from a comfortable family falling from a local island boy. Being new to writing lyrics it was initially a struggle but his ability to translate English to Tok Pisin was very accurate. “I used Tok Pisin Idioms to make the lyrics shorter.” “I described the rich girl from a comfortable family as, ‘Such things yu bara danger oh.’ While the rest came into place from Tok Pisin Idioms from our local slangs,” said Loyd. Furthermore, he stressed that the journey as not been especially with no proper platform to market music for artists, but his overwhelmed joy to just make music keeps his focus out of the financial challenges. Mavn recently performed his first live show at the Manus Night at the Cosmopolitan on Friday 23rd, and now excited to have another opportunity to perform should he get another chance. He urges young upcoming singers to be truthful to their struggles, embrace it and it will allow them to realize the significant components that is needed during the journey.

The Papua New Guinea Trukai Industries sponsor’s K10, 000 to the Port Moresby (POM) Harlequins Rugby Union Club today, Thursday August 29th at the Trukai Industries office in Port Moresby. Trukai Industries continues its commitment to supporting local sport and nurturing young talent in the nation with Marketing Manager (MM) Maryanne Tom presenting a dummy cheque of the K10, 000 to Harlequins President, Hubert Kikira and Harlequins Premium and A-Grade team members with mentioned addition Trukai merchandise for the Local Rugby Union Club. Maryanne emphasized the sponsorship falls in accordance with Trukai’s core values to community sports development and welfare. “Sports, Health and wellbeing are part of our core values.” “We have decided to support the harlequins Rugby Union Club as their work for community, team development and health aligns with ours,” said Maryanne. She also acknowledged and emphasized her thrill to reignite the partnership between Trukai and the Harlequins Club, as they have an existing history of sponsoring the harlequins in previous years. Meantime, President Kikila expressed his appreciation of the tremendous support on behalf of the Harlequins club and emphasized the clubs focus towards utilizing these funds and merchandise through the club’s development plans. “The support will allow us to improve the club's infrastructure and offer better opportunities for the players.” “Our clubs financial literacy program is aligned with one of the clubs aim, which is to invest in the future and let rugby be the sphere of influence in building great people for great results on and off the field.” Trukai Industries remains dedicated to fostering sports development in communities and looks forward to witnessing the positive impact of this sponsorship on the POM Harlequins Rugby Union Club. The Harlequins Rugby Club Union Club competes in the Capital Rugby Union (CRU) competition in Port Moresby and the Cobras' 10’s in Malaysia. Harlequins has had 16 premier grade titles and 2 women's titles over the 30 years.

The grand opening of the Pro Fitness Gym will soon come to life at the Igam Barracks, Second Bus Stop in Lae Morobe Province. Young Entrepreneur and founder of the Wantok Sports Agency Mr. Nickson Borana told PNG HAUSBUNG his initiative behind Pro Fitness Gym and the postponement of its grand opening. Borana emphasized that Lae has only one Gym located at the stadium downtown. However, it lacks proper endurance and conditioning training equipment with an expensive entry fee, and the location is quite a distance from most rural communities to allow accessible quality and healthy workouts. He added the unforeseen delays caused by the recent heavy rains have pushed the grand opening date to later this year. This new gym promises to bring accessible, high-quality fitness services to Lae residents, particularly those in rural communities who lack affordable and nearby exercise facilities. Pro Fitness Gym is designed to address the gaps Borana identified in Lae’s fitness landscape. With only one public gym available in downtown Lae, which lacks proper endurance and conditioning equipment, Borana saw the need for a more accessible and affordable alternative. His long-term goal is to establish more gyms in rural areas, making quality fitness opportunities available to all. Borana highlighted the significant obstacles faced including difficulty in securing funds, dealing with Lae’s wet weather, and navigating the muddy roads that hindered material transportation to the site. Despite these setbacks, Borana and his team of three residents of Igam- Second Palm Block, Silas, Joseph, and Clearance, have managed to construct the main building. The remaining work includes finishing the toilet and bathroom areas and installing electricity. Borana expressed that his vision extends beyond physical fitness, and it’s about creating a healthy body and mind for his clients. Before starting any training, potential clients must be medically cleared. The gym will be hiring one staff member with experience working with semi-professional sports teams in PNG, reflecting Borana’s commitment to providing professional and knowledgeable services. Borana further emphasized that his journey as a business owner for the Pro Fitness Gym and Wantok Sports Agency hopefully inspires others to be more open minded into starting a business apart from their professional athlete careers. He encouraged young athletes to think beyond their sports careers and invest in their futures by starting businesses. “I hope I can inspire other young athletes to become entrepreneurs." "We all know that we’re not going to play any physical sports till we’re 35 or 40 years old.” "So now while we’re making money doing what we love, let’s use our salary or match payments and open businesses." "Anyone can become an entrepreneur or SME owner." "All you need is to register your business name with IPA and then apply for a TIN at IRC." "Then open a bank account at one of the recognized banking institutions and then you’re all set to operate.” “Then after 12 or 24 months of operation, you’ll then be eligible for SME loans." "It’s easy as that! It’s important to plan and prepare for life after professional sports, otherwise you’ll become one of many PNG superstars who once lived a lavish lifestyle and now are unemployed and back in the village,” said Borana. For now, Pro Fitness Gym is a work-in-progress, but its foundation is strong. Borana’s passion for fitness, coupled with his entrepreneurial spirit in the Wantok Sports Agency, signals a bright future for this new venture and its potential impact on the community.

Prime Minister (PM) James Marape met with the Tongan Prime Minister Hon. Siaosi Ofakivaha Sovaleni discussing further development initiatives to strengthen ties during the current 53rd Pacific Islands Forum (PIF) Leaders Meeting in Nuku’alofa, Tonga on Monday, August 26th, 2024. PM Marape expressed his gratitude to Prime Minister Sovaleni for meeting him while overwhelmed as the host of the 53rd PIF Leaders Meeting to meet and hold discussions with him and his PNG delegation.  Prime Minister Marape highlighted the PNG-Tonga relations in the people-to-people relation which began with the spreading of the word of God by Tongan missionaries as notable example. Late Reverend Sione Kami who served in the Highlands region of PNG before establishing what is now the Reverend Sione Kami Memorial Church in Port Moresby, symbolizing the deep ties between the two nations. Also expressing Additional relations such as the Union Of PNG’s Governor General Sir Bob Dadae and lady Emeline Dadae from Tonga, further strengthening these bonds. PM Marape assured PM Sovaleni in terms of bilateral relations, underscored the PNG Government’s commitment of K10 million to assist in Tonga’s rehabilitation efforts following the devastating undersea volcanic eruption and tsunami in early 2022. Furthermore, the PM also discussed key initiatives, including the Pacific Marine Industrial Zone Project, which focuses on the industrial development of offshore fisheries, and the East New Britain Initiative, a regional concept established during the recent Forum Fisheries Meeting in September 2023 held in Kokopo, PNG. “The East New Britain Initiative will involve the broader Forum Membership when successfully implemented as envisioned in the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. PNG welcomes Tonga and all PIF members to partner with us in this Regional Initiative.” Tonga’s PM Sovaleni warmly welcomed Prime Minister Marape and the PNG delegation, expressing his appreciation for their visit to Tonga during the PIF meeting.

The Kroton Hela Wigmen narrowly defeated the ENB Agmark Gurias delivering a thrilling game with a final score of 22-14, securing their place in the Top 6. The elimination finals of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup 2024 delivered a thrilling rugby league clash at the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby on Sunday, August 25th. The Wigmen displayed their drive to win attacking early in the match, scoring two quick tries within the first 20 minutes. Siki Konden opened the scoring in the 15th minute, followed by a try from Norman Brown just four minutes later, giving the Wigmen a solid 8-0 lead. Despite missing the conversion attempt, their dominance on the field was undoubted. The second half saw the Gurias fighting back, but the Wigmen extended their lead further with a try by Trevor Solu in the 51st minute. Solu's try was followed by a successful penalty goal in the 55th minute, increasing the Wigmen's advantage to 16-0. Another penalty goal by Benton Leme in the 58th minute made it 18-0, leaving the Gurias with a mountain to climb. The Gurias' determination finally bore fruit in the 62nd minute when Adel Mikaive crossed the try line, marking their first points of the match. The momentum shifted slightly as Konnie Bernard scored another try in the 73rd minute, narrowing the gap to 18-8. However, the Wigmen quickly responded with a try by Woodie Kawage in the 77th minute, with Solu successfully converting, pushing the score to 22-8. Despite the odds, the Gurias refused to go down quietly. Jeremiah Dickson's try in the 77th minute, followed by Ase Boas' successful conversion in the 78th, brought the score to 22-14. However, time was not on their side, and the Wigmen held on to claim a crucial victory. The match was a showcase of resilience and tactical execution by the Wigmen, who capitalized on their opportunities and held off a late surge from the Gurias. With four tries, one conversion, and two penalty goals, the Wigmen's balanced performance proved decisive in a match where every point mattered. The Kroton Hela Wigmen will look to build on this victory as they advance further into the Top 6 of the competition, while the ENB Agmark Gurias will reflect on a valiant effort that came up just short in this elimination final.

The Lae Snax Tigers emerged victorious with a narrow 10-8 win, securing their spot in the top 4 of the tournament. A fierce elimination match was displayed between the Lae Snax Tigers and the PRK Mendi Muruks at the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby on Sunday, August 25th. The Tigers started strong, with Jacky Winas scoring an early try in the 4th minute, followed by a successful conversion just two minutes later, giving them a 6-0 lead. The match then turned into a defensive battle, with both teams struggling to gain the upper hand. The Muruks responded in the 35th minute when Mark Tony crossed the try line, narrowing the gap to 6-4. However, their inability to convert the try kept them trailing as the first half ended. Early in the second half, the Muruks took the lead for the first time when Myles Posu scored a try in the 42nd minute, pushing the score to 8-6. However, like their previous attempt, the conversion failed, leaving the door open for the Tigers. In a crucial moment, the Tigers were awarded a penalty, and Winas stepped up once again to kick it successfully in the 56th minute, reclaiming the lead at 10-8. The match grew even more intense when both teams were reduced to 12 men after sin bins for Jordan Steven of the Tigers and Junior Thomas of the Muruks in the 52nd minute for high contact. Despite the Muruks' relentless efforts to break through the Tigers' defense in the closing stages, the Tigers held firm, securing the win with a combination of solid defense and discipline. The Lae Snax Tigers' ability to capitalize on their limited opportunities, with Winas scoring all their points through a try, conversion, and two penalty goals, proved decisive. In contrast, the PRK Mendi Muruks will regret their missed conversion attempts and failure to capitalize on their try-scoring opportunities. The Lae Snax Tigers victory moves them forward in the Top 6 of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup 2024 while the PRK Mendi Muruks bow out after a brave but ultimately unsuccessful effort in the elimination final.

The Inaugural Santos Women Rugby season “Power Meri” Round 4 saw the Gas resource Central Dabaris take on the East New Britain. The 60 minute game was a battlefield which took a quick turn in favour of the Central Dabaris scoring 5 tries and three successful conversion from the five tries. The first half had both teams attempting to gain yards but were fairly matched in defense and attack until two tries and one out of 2 successful conversions were scored by the Central Dabaris, leading half time 10-0. The Second Half then had the Agmark Gurias come out strong driving back the Cetral Dabaris into their 10 meter line but their defense line was too weak to keep the Dabaris stationed as they Dabaris quickly regained meters with strong runs. The Agmark Gurias struggled to hold their own with a weak defense line to cover their try line where the Central Dabaris scored three tries and 2 out of three successful conversions. The Central Dabaris were too smart, attacking the short side with Marie Biyama scoring two tries in the first and second half. The Dabaris kept their momentum inline with their condition in the first hands second half, efficiently maneuvering their way into the Gurias try line. Dabaris eventually took the win 26-0, remaining victorious once again. This game also was themed the Power Meri Round as all the players wore their Power Meri socks onto the field.