All Papua New Guineans have been invited to play a key role in the nation’s sporting history with the official launch of the “Name Our Team” competition for the country’s first-ever National Rugby League (NRL) franchise, scheduled to debut in the 2028 premiership. The announcement was made today, 13th August 2025 at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby during a ceremony attended by Prime Minister James Marape, Australian High Commissioner Ewen McDonald, franchise Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Andrew Hill, and members of the PNG NRL Franchise Board. Franchise CEO Andrew Hill, said the initiative aimed to create a team that every Papua New Guinean could call their own. “This is more than a name it’s a symbol of national pride and a reflection of who we are as a nation.” “By inviting every Papua New Guinean to help us name our team, we are building something that truly belongs to its people.” Prime Minister Marape described the launch as a milestone for PNG’s sporting and cultural history. “Rugby league is in our DNA. In 2028, our team will step onto the NRL field for the first time, representing our people, our culture, and our spirit,” he said. “The announcement of our team name on Independence Day will be one of the proudest moments in our history.” He encouraged submissions that reflect national unity, respect for all citizens, positive growth, and PNG’s relationship with Australia, rather than purely personal or local references. The competition is open to all Papua New Guineans, with submissions accepted online at www.yourteamnamehere.co until 31st August. The board will shortlist entries before opening them to a public vote, ensuring that the final name is truly ‘owned by the people.’ Preparations for the team are underway, including plans for a High-Performance Centre and a player village, with expressions of interest from developers already received. Meanwhile, High Commissioner McDonald said Australia supported the franchise’s development as a way to strengthen sporting and cultural ties between the two nations. The campaign will be promoted nationwide across television, radio, newspapers, and online platforms. The final team name is expected to be revealed during PNG’s 50th Independence Anniversary celebrations, marking a historic moment for the nation. “When the team runs out for its first NRL match in 2028, the name on their shirts will represent every Papua New Guinean.” “The stage is set. The opportunity is yours. Name our team. Shape our history.”

In only their second season competing in the Port Moresby Basketball Association, the Equalizers Basketball Club has made a remarkable rise to the top, booking their spot in the Men’s Grand Final this Monday, 11 August, against the seasoned champions, Ultimax. Founded in 2023 by co-founders Agnes Urupua and Tirimahn Masi, the Equalizers were born out of a shared love for basketball and the determination to create their own opportunity after being turned away by other clubs. What started as a team made up entirely of players from the De La Salle community has now grown to include talented recruits from across the Bomana area and the wider North-East electorate. Most of the Equalizers’ players had little to no prior competition experience, but that did not stop them from defying the odds. Their Grand Final opponents, Ultimax, are no strangers to silverware, having won multiple championships before – making Monday’s clash a true David-versus-Goliath showdown. “We didn’t just start this club for ourselves,” said Tirimahn Masi. “Our goal was to showcase the hidden basketball talent in Bomana, a place known more for rugby and soccer, and to give young people a positive outlet – away from drinking and drugs – and something to keep them busy.” In their debut season, the Equalizers self-funded their campaign through grassroots fundraisers such as selling lunch packs and hosting K100 dish kaikai events. This year, the club secured vital sponsorship from ChildFund PNG, which covered registration fees while an anonymous sponsor generously purchased new jerseys for both the men’s and women’s teams. While the men’s side surged into the Grand Final, the women’s team fell just short, finishing 5th and narrowly missing out on the top four. Transport and finances were major challenges in the club’s early days, with the team hiring PMV buses for K150 each week to get to match. A breakthrough came when De La Salle Secondary School agreed to provide transport in exchange for training opportunities for their students – some of whom were impressed enough to earn a place on the Equalizers’ roster. Despite the obstacles, the team’s resilience and tight bond have been key to their success. “Every challenge made us stronger,” Masi said. “The commitment from our players and the support from our community has carried us all the way to the Grand Final.” The Equalizers tip off against Ultimax in the PMBA Men’s Grand Final this Monday at the Taurama Aquatic Centre – a game that promises both grit and heart from a club determined to make history.

The arrival hall at Jacksons International Airport erupted in celebration today 11th of August 2025 as Papua New Guinea’s WAN Squad returned home as back-to-back World Hip-Hop Dance Champions, successfully defending their 2024 title at this year’s championship in Arizona, USA. The victory saw the crew triumph over top global competitors, including Australia, New Zealand and Mexico, cementing PNG’s place on the world dance stage. Team Manager and choreographer Pyan NG said the second win carried more weight than the first. “We’ve gained a lot more respect and appreciation from new fans around the world, especially here at home. It’s an honor to prove that the first time wasn’t a fluke and we’re not a one-time wonder — we can do it again,” he said. For first-time competitors Jeremiah and Nigel, stepping onto the world stage was a dream come true. “It’s a huge honor and blessing. We never thought something like this would happen to us. Hearing the national anthem play while standing on the podium was overwhelming,” Jeremiah shared. Pacific Industries Limited, through its Mountain Dew brand, has been a steadfast supporter of WAN Squad for the past four years, providing financial sponsorship, branded merchandise, and beverages. This year’s sponsorship totaled K200,000, including a K50,000 bonus for the team’s gold medal victory. Pacific Industries Directors Everett and Sharani Chue were at the airport to personally welcome the champion's home. “WAN Squad’s back-to-back win is a testament to their resilience, dedication, and hard work. Winning on the world stage takes discipline and passion — qualities that inspire the youth of Papua New Guinea,” said Mr. Everett Chue. “We’re proud to support their vision for growing the dance community and empowering young people. Mountain Dew is all about celebrating bold moves, and WAN Squad embodies that spirit perfectly.” Also at the airport was NCD Governor Powes Parkop, who praised the team’s contribution to PNG’s cultural identity and youth inspiration. “Congratulate! two years in a row, World Champions. We are proud of them for promoting our contemporary culture, putting effort and energy into their routines, and representing our city and country with pride. I thank them, their managers Gian and the family, and Mountain Dew for their support. They’ve done well for themselves, for their families, and for our nation,” Governor Parkop said. Beyond the world stage, WAN Squad and Pacific Industries are committed to developing the local dance scene through events like the annual Mountain Dew National Dance Championship, which will return in October with international guests and expanded competition categories. As defending champions, the team hopes their achievement will continue to inspire PNG’s youth. “We’ve inspired so many countries, not just our own. We’re proud to be the ones showing the world what Papua New Guinea can do,” said Pyan NG.

At the 41st National Parliament Anniversary on 7th August 2025, Sir John Kaputin, a distinguished Papua New Guinean statesman and former deputy speaker of parliament, reflected on how Papua New Guinea’s Parliament evolved institutionally, culturally, and architecturally. With the State Function Room filled with the 24 Grade 11 finalists of the National Essay Competition, Sir John Kaputin took a moment to relive his earlier days and traced the institution’s roots dating back nearly six decades. "We started off in the 1950s with a Legislative Council mostly comprised of members of the Council of the Administrator. From there, we went on to become the House of Assembly. We then saw participation by our elders who laid the foundation for our democracy today." Several stages align with historical developments, including the Legislative Council (1951–1963), which was the colonial-era legislature. This was succeeded by the House of Assembly in 1964, which lasted for about 11 years until 1975, when this body became the National Parliament and the country gained independence. Sir John Kaputin also recounted the origins of the Parliament Haus and how he and former Speaker Barry Holloway had to choose between two designs to present to Parliament: "In 1984, this Parliament was opened by the then Prince Charles, now King Charles III. This building was designed by architects led by Cecil Hogan." "We had to make the choice between two parliaments whether to represent our Kundu, or the Haus Tambaran. In our wisdom, we believed it would be more appropriate to represent us by our culture, our architecture so that we could have something to be proud of." That decision led to the construction of the current National Parliament House in Waigani, which was officially opened by Prince Charles (now King Charles III) on 8 August 1984. Its architecture draws strongly from the traditional Haus Tambaran style of the Sepik region, specifically its striking A-frame façade. The design was submitted by Cecil Hogan in 1976 and adopted thereafter. Sir John Kaputin summarized the current state of Parliament "Over the years, the caliber and nature of our representation has been changing. We are proud of the decision by the Speaker of the House to put on this event to celebrate today our National Parliament."

Papua New Guinea has successfully carried out its first kidney transplants, with both recipients now recovering well at Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) has announced. The historic surgeries were performed on 14 and 15 May 2025, in partnership with UK-based charity Transplant Links Community (TLC). They mark a milestone for PNG’s healthcare system and coincide with the country’s 50th independence anniversary. A 58-year-old woman from Enga Province, diagnosed with kidney failure in 2022, received a kidney from her 24-year-old niece. The second patient, a 56-year-old woman from Central Province, was given a kidney by her 40-year-old younger sister after being diagnosed in 2023. Both patients began passing urine within 24 hours of surgery – a key sign of transplant success – and remain under close observation. PMGH Chief Executive Dr Paki Molumi described the operations as a “national breakthrough”, saying: “We are pleased to report that both transplant recipients and their donors are doing well. Their recovery has been steady.” The procedures were led by Papua New Guinean urologists and trained transplant surgeons Dr Damien Hasola, Dr Sidney James, and Dr Chris Munguas, supported by TLC specialists. A multidisciplinary team of anesthesiologists, nurses, pathologists, radiologists, and support staff assisted in the operations. Prime Minister James Marape, who visited the operating theatre during the second surgery, praised the courage of the patients and their families, calling the achievement “medical history for PNG”. He said the development aligned with his government’s vision to reduce reliance on overseas medical treatment. Dr Hoxson Okti Poki, chairman of the Kidney Transplant Program Steering Committee, said the success reflected “years of dedication and collaboration” and positioned PNG to undertake more organ transplants in the future. Lead surgeon Dr Hasola described the achievement as “a gesture of hope” for patients who would otherwise need costly overseas treatment. “For this to happen during our 50th independence anniversary is a dream come true,” he said. The transplants were made possible with financial backing from the National Fisheries Authority, which contributed K10 million to help PMGH build capacity for specialist care. PMGH and the National Department of Health say they plan to expand the programme, continue training local staff, and strengthen renal care services in the coming months.

Charlie Isari from St Charles Lwanga Secondary School in Port Moresby city didn’t expect that an essay he started just a day before the deadline would win him the 2025 National Grade 11 Essay and Poetry Competition. Representing the Southern Region, the 18-year-old is of mixed parentage of Kanuni Village in Tufi, Oro Province, and Ihu, Kavava West Kerema. Charlie is currently studying Biochemistry in Grade 11 at St Charles Lwanga. His essay, Independence: A Symbol of Unity, won first place in the essay category during the 41st anniversary celebrations of Papua New Guinea’s Parliament House on Thursday, August 7. The competition also marked the nation’s 50th Independence Anniversary and brought together 24 student finalists from across the country. In person, Charlie is softly spoken and a little shy, but when it comes to talking about his work, he is fluent and precise. “I started on Wednesday afternoon, worked through Thursday, and submitted on Friday,” he recalled with a smile. “Actually, I first submitted it on Thursday, but they found a few mistakes, so I had to edit it again. My mum helped me replace repeated words with better ones, and that made it stronger.” The competition asked students to explore what independence means to them and how they envision Papua New Guinea in 50 years. For Charlie, inspiration came from both the nation’s history and his own childhood memories. “My favourite part was the second paragraph,” he said. “I described how, as a kid, independence meant the dancers, the traditional attires, and the songs. The words just came naturally.” Although the clock was against him, Charlie says he wouldn’t have entered without the encouragement of his best friend, Jerusha Wama. “She kept pushing me to try, even though it was late,” he said. “I didn’t think I would win — for me, it was just a try. But then my teacher told me I was selected, and the whole class started screaming.” On the day of the event, held at the Parliament State Function Room, Charlie’s highlight wasn’t just winning the prize — it was meeting some of the pioneering leaders of PNG. “We learned about Sir John Momis in school and meeting him in person was unbelievable. My friends couldn’t believe it, so I had to take pictures,” he laughed. For his win, Charlie received K5,000, and his essay will be preserved in a historic time capsule to be opened in 2075, alongside photographs and memorabilia from this year’s celebrations. From a rushed Wednesday afternoon idea to standing in Parliament as a national winner, Charlie’s story is a reminder that sometimes the greatest successes come when you least expect them — and when you have the right people cheering you on.

The 41st anniversary of the National Parliament House in Port Moresby this week was marked with a powerful display of student creativity during the Grade 11 National Essay and Poetry Competition, held in commemoration of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary. A total of 24 finalists, six from each region, were selected through a rigorous three-stage process that began at the school level and concluded with regional shortlists. Finalists were brought into Port Moresby on an all-expenses-paid trip to take part in a week-long national program, culminating in the final presentation on Thursday, August 7. The central theme of the competition was “PNG is celebrating 50 years of independence. What does independence mean to you and how do you envision PNG in 50 years' time?” In the Essay category, Charlie Isari, a Grade 11 science student from St. Charles Lwanga Secondary School representing the Southern Region, claimed first place for his thoughtful and visionary piece titled "Independence: A Symbol of Unity." “Independence is more than a debate or a date in history,” Isari said “It is about unity, resilience, and pride in who we are. I wanted to imagine what PNG could become by 2075, a strong and diverse country that is led with care.” In the Poetry category, Joshua Sinari of Zion Zeal Secondary School in the Southern Region won first place for his heartfelt poem "Independence Poem for PNG You." “Writing the poem felt like writing a song,” Sinari said. “I wanted it to speak from the heart about our land, our people, and what independence truly means as we look to the future.” The runners-up in both categories were from the Highlands Region, representing Kainantu Technical Secondary School. Phylip Ryan placed second in the Poetry category, while Simon Tau secured second place in the Essay category. For their prizes, Charlie and Joshua will each receive K5,000, while Simon and Phylip will each receive K3,000 for their second-place wins. All 24 winning entries will be included in a historic time capsule, which will be sealed in the presence of pioneering Members of Parliament and opened during PNG’s centennial celebrations in 2075. Photographs and memorabilia from this year’s anniversary will also be preserved. The competition, officially launched on May 23 and closed on June 20, served as a platform for young Papua New Guineans to reflect on the nation’s journey and share their vision for this 50th anniversary and to the next 50 years.

Cricket PNG has officially named the 14-man Barramundis squad set to represent Papua New Guinea in the upcoming World Cricket League (50-over format) tour in Jersey, scheduled from August 12 to September 3, 2025. The announcement was made during a press briefing held at Amini Park this morning, with Cricket PNG Chairman Michael Harrison joined by Selection Panel Chairman Hudson Leka, Deputy Chairman Rarua Dikana, and Assistant Coach John Ovia. Veteran batter Assadollah Vala will lead the side as captain, with Sese Bau appointed vice-captain. The 14 selected players include: 1. Assadollah Vala (Captain) 2. Sese Bau (Vice Captain) 3. Kipling Doriga 4. Hila George Vaieke Vare 5. Patrick Nou 6. Kabua Vagi Morea 7. Alei Nao 8. John Kariko 9. Michael Charlie 10. Damien Ravu 11. Vagi Guba 12. Boio Ray 13. Jason Kila 14. Peter Karoho Three players; Boio Ray, Vagi Guba, and Peter Karoho all three have earned maiden call-ups to the national squad. The tour also marks the return of experienced campaigners Damien Ravu and Jason Kila. Chairman Harrison commended the blend of youth and experience in the team. "This squad is a blend of experience and emerging talent, and we are confident they will make the nation proud," he said. "We wish them all the best as they prepare to showcase PNG’s cricketing strength on the international stage." Head Coach John Ovia expressed confidence in the squad’s preparation, noting their training focus over the past two months. “We’ve worked hard on match awareness and game scenarios. The boys have responded well under Assad and Sese’s leadership,” said Ovia. “This tour will test our skills, character, and team spirit but I believe this group is ready.” Selection Chairman Hudson Leka described the selection process as very competitive. “We considered fitness, form, and team balance. Each of these players earned their spot and will represent the country with pride,” he said. The team departs on Monday, August 11, and will arrive in Jersey after a two-day journey. They will then travel to Guernsey on August 14 for warm-up matches, including a T20 and two ODIs, before returning to Jersey to open the tournament on August 20. Cricket PNG extended its best wishes to the Barramundis for a successful international campaign.

Port Moresby Nature Park’s Conservation Manager, Francis Otto Gundu, has been named “ZAA Employee of the Year” at the 2025 Association of Zoos and Aquariums Australasia (ZAA) annual meeting in Darwin, Australia. The event was made possible through the sponsorship of UK-based conservation charity, Synchronicity Earth, which supported three Papua New Guinean staff from the Nature Park to attend. Mr. Gundu, who hails from Simbu Province, presented on the park’s partnership with the IUCN Species Survival Commission (SSC), highlighting its role as host of the newly launched Centre for Species Survival: PNG. The Centre aims to support the conservation of the country’s diverse native species. Wildlife Officer Ms. Bonnie Irima Bilson also shared insights into the park’s successful breeding program, which recently celebrated the hatching of a Raggiana bird-of-paradise chick as a symbolic achievement tied to PNG’s 50th Anniversary. Both presentations received high praise from conservationists, researchers, zoo and aquarium directors, and Indigenous representatives from across the region. The highlight came when Mr. Gundu was awarded the prestigious Employee of the Year title which was a recognition given to an individual who demonstrates excellence in teamwork, innovation, integrity, and inclusion. “We were already proud to have Francis and Bonnie represent the park,” said Nature Park CEO Johnpaul Houston. “Francis embodies the spirit of our wildlife team, and this award is a testament to over a decade of staff development at the park.” Mr. Gundu was acknowledged for leading several impactful initiatives that include improvements in the breeding of endemic frog species and expanding internship programs to include more urban youth. Melanesia Program Manager for Synchronicity Earth, Miriam Supuma, praised the achievement and emphasized the importance of investing in young Papua New Guinean conservationists. “Exposure to regional networks builds skills, fosters collaboration, and strengthens local conservation,” she said. “Francis’s leadership and innovation at the park show the great potential PNG has in leading its own conservation future.” Reflecting on the win, Mr. Gundu credited his team. “Although I’ve been recognized, the work we do is always a team effort,” he said. “This award belongs to all of us at the Nature Park.” He extended his gratitude to the ZAA, the park’s board, and CEO for supporting professional development and recognizing local conservation efforts. “It’s important that the world sees the good work happening here in PNG,” Mr. Gundu added. “I look forward to bringing the award home to share it with my wife, two sons, and the entire team.”

A week-long Menstrual Health and Hygiene (MHH) awareness campaign was held across 5 schools in Milne Bay province with a total of 645 girls attending in June 2025. The awareness campaign was by CPL Foundation Inc., in partnership with Queenpads and the Sir Brian Bell Foundation. The awareness campaign was led by Queenpads Founder & CEO Anne-Shirley Korave and volunteer Shivonnie Sakme, who facilitated sessions at: - Naura Primary School - Hagita Secondary School - Huhuna Primary School - Kebegiuli Primary School - Ramhaga Adventist Primary School Each school hosted interactive awareness sessions, providing vital information around menstrual hygiene, cycle education, and destigmatization of menstruation. The sessions also encouraged proper hygiene practices and promoted sustainable, environmentally friendly menstrual products. This campaign was timed to align with World Environment Day, reinforcing the connection between menstrual health and waste reduction through reusable sanitary solutions. Thanks to the Sir Brian Bell Foundation, each participant received a reusable QueenPad with a total of 638 QueenPads distributed during the program. CPL Foundation covered all logistics for the trip, including return airfares, cargo, accommodation, meals, transport, and boat transfers, totaling over K10,000 in sponsorship. This partnership exemplifies CPL’s commitment to championing health and education initiatives, particularly those that empower young girls and women across Papua New Guinea. Feedback from the schools was overwhelmingly positive as this highlights the need for more support and open dialogue on reproductive health education in schools. As menstrual health remains a sensitive yet crucial topic in PNG, CPL Foundation remains committed to supporting programs that equip girls with knowledge, confidence, and access to safe hygiene products. "We thank all our partners, especially the on-ground volunteers and school administration teams, for making this outreach possible."

 New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon arrived in Port Moresby this evening at 6:15pm, where he was officially welcomed at Jacksons International Airport’s APEC terminal by a full ceremonial parade led by the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF). Escorted by PNGDF Commander, Rear Admiral Philip Polewara, the Prime Minister was ushered through a formal guard of honor, marking the significance of his first official visit to Papua New Guinea since assuming office. A military band played the Papua New Guinea national anthem, setting a respectful and dignified tone for what is expected to be a key diplomatic engagement between the two Pacific nations. Among the dignitaries present to receive the New Zealand leader were Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso, Minister for Foreign Affairs Justin Tkatchenko, NCD Governor Powes Parkop, and Police Commissioner David Manning alongside senior officers of the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary and members of the ceremonial guard. Prime Minister Luxon was taken through the military parade three times—a protocol typically reserved for visiting heads of state—before departing for APEC House, where formal bilateral talks are scheduled during his stay. “This visit signals the strength of our Pacific partnership,” said Foreign Minister Tkatchenko during the ceremony. “We are honored to receive Prime Minister Luxon and reaffirm our commitment to regional cooperation.” Deputy Prime Minister Rosso, who accompanied Prime Minister Luxon throughout the ceremony, reaffirmed Papua New Guinea’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and advancing shared priorities between the two governments. The presence of Police Commissioner David Manning and the PNGDF at full protocol highlighted the ceremonial importance and security significance of the visit. Prime Minister Luxon is expected to engage in discussions around regional security, trade, and climate action, with a scheduled address to the Papua New Guinea National Parliament anticipated as a key highlight of his visit. The evening’s official reception concluded with a final military march as Prime Minister Luxon departed the terminal for his official residence.

The Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) has recently launched the official 2025 season of the Santos Cup; the country’s premier national women’s rugby league competition. Now entering its second year, the Santos Cup will run across five rounds followed by two weeks of finals, culminating in the grand final on 14 September, held ahead of the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup finale. Each of the six participating franchises will play each other once before the top four progress into the final's series. The six teams competing in this year’s tournament include: · Gas Resource Central Dabaris · East New Britain Agmark Gurias · Bintangor Goroka Lahanis · Lae Snax Tigers · Wamp NGA Mt. Hagen Eagles · Moni Plus NCDC Port Moresby Vipers PNGRFL Chief Executive Officer Stanley Hondina emphasized that the launch of the 2025 season is more than just a calendar event. He said it reflects the organization’s dedication to building inclusive pathways in rugby league. “Santos Cup highlights our continued efforts to maintain, strengthen and build pathways to allow an equal playing field, equal opportunities, and ensure rugby league competition is accessible for our girls and women.” He also noted that televised matches in Port Moresby, courtesy of TV Wan, will offer visibility and motivation for aspiring female players participating at grassroots and affiliated levels across the country. “This is more than a competition; Santos Cup represents a national outlet for our affiliated and grassroots female competitions that are present, growing, and breaking barriers at community and school levels across PNG.” Highlighting the international progress of local talent, Mr. Hondina pointed to players like Elsie Albert, who now competes in the NRLW Telstra Premiership for the Parramatta Eels, and several PNG Orchids stars currently playing in Australian leagues. “Santos Cup provides a platform, and it is our responsibility at PNGRFL to ensure these pathways are not only available but also visible to drive more participation.” Additionally, matches for the 2025 Santos Cup will be played in Port Moresby, Lae, Rabaul, Minj, and Goroka, reinforcing the competition’s national footprint. The Santos Cup was first introduced in 2024 as part of PNGRFL’s long-term vision to develop the women’s game and align it with existing National Rugby League Competition pathways.