The Sydney Wesley Rhinos Rugby 10s Tournament is emerging as more than just a sporting event, carrying forward the legacy of one of Papua New Guinea’s most respected rugby union mentors, the late Sydney Wesley.Unlike many rugby greats remembered for representing the country on the international stage, Wesley—fondly known as Paps Sydney—left his mark through coaching and grassroots development. His influence shaped generations of players, particularly through the Defence Rugby Union Club, where many current rugby administrators and players were mentored. That foundation later gave rise to the Rhinos Rugby Union Club. Tournament Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Jordan Seladi said the club reflects Paps Sydney’s vision of an inclusive game, one that provides opportunities for players of all shapes and sizes, especially those often overlooked in fast-paced sevens competitions. “The Rugby 10s format has become central to that vision, offering a balanced style of play that blends physicality, speed and strategy,” said Seladi. “The format creates space for bigger players while maintaining excitement on the edges.” Seladi said the format allows more players to participate and enjoy the game. “The inaugural Rhinos Rugby 10s tournament held last year exceeded expectations, drawing strong participation and widespread interest within the rugby community,” he said. “What was initially expected to be a modest event quickly gained momentum, prompting organisers to expand the tournament this year.” Beyond competition, the tournament plays an important community role, particularly during the festive season. With 24 teams registered this year, each comprising up to 25 players, more than 100 athletes are expected to take part, alongside their families and supporters. Seladi added that the tournament helps keep young people engaged in positive activities during a period often associated with social challenges. Rugby union’s structured and tactical nature has also helped attract young people who may not fit into rugby league pathways. With defined roles for players regardless of size or speed, the sport provides an inclusive platform for talent development. The tournament’s impact now extends beyond Papua New Guinea through live streaming. Last year’s matches attracted viewers from across the Pacific, Australia, New Zealand, Europe and the United States, highlighting the growing global interest in PNG rugby union. Seladi believes increased exposure could open pathways for players to progress into local clubs and potentially overseas opportunities, strengthening the profile of PNG rugby on the international stage. Inspired by international events such as the Singapore Sevens, the Rhinos Rugby 10s also aims to create a family-friendly festival atmosphere, featuring entertainment, food and community engagement alongside competitive rugby. While rugby 10s has long been part of Papua New Guinea’s sporting landscape, Seladi said it is time for the format to reclaim its place at the forefront of the local rugby scene. As preparations continue, the Sydney Wesley Rhinos Rugby 10s Tournament stands as both a tribute to a rugby pioneer and a platform for building a stronger, more inclusive future for rugby union in Papua New Guinea. The Tournament will be held from the 27th to the 28th of December, 2025 with the Cup winner walking away with K20,000 and runner up will be getting K10,000. There will be prizes for Plate Winner, Bowl Winner and best team as well.

The late Minister for Works and Highways, Solan Misirim was laid- in- stated this morning at the Grand Hall of the National Parliament in Port Moresby city as the State Funeral proceeding takes place this week.There to pay their final respects were his fellow Ministers and Members of Parliament and dignitaries. Mr. Mirisim is remembered as a dedicated leader who served the people of Telefomin in West Sepik province with commitment and humility. National leaders honoured his contribution to Parliament and his service to the people of Papua New Guinea during the solemn proceedings. Following the laying of wreaths, the casket of the late leader was taken by the members of the Correctional Services back to the hearse and left for the Sione Kami Memorial Church for the funeral service. Late Solan was first elected to the 9th National Parliament in the 2012 General Elections, re-elected to the 10th National Parliament in 2017 General Elections and again to the 11th National Parliament in 2022 General Elections as the Member for Telefomin. During those terms, he served as a member of the Permanent Parliamentary Committee on Appointments, Pensions and Retirement Benefits, and Public Works in August 2012, appointed Minister for Defence in December 2020 to July 2021 and Minister for Works and Highways in August 2022. He served as Minister for Works and Highways, implementing the National Government’s Connect PNG Programme until his passing on December 2nd 2025 in Port Moresby city.

The East Sepik Provincial Health Authority (ESPHA) continues to strive in delivering health services across the province, with most facilities currently operational this festive season despite the usual challenges.Director of Public Health, Dr. Mathew Mongolap, said all health facilities are open and efforts are underway to reopen and establish more aid posts to cater for rural communities. “There is only one facility that remains closed in the Ambunti/Drekikir district which was burnt down during the 2022 election conflicts,” he said. Dr. Mongolap revealed that the province currently operates 98 aid posts, with a target to expand to 250. He also confirmed that East Sepik is not experiencing the widespread drug shortages affecting some other provinces. This is because the PHA recently signed an agreement with City Pharmacy to provide medicines not available in hospitals. “Doctors are advised to write prescriptions for patients to collect their needed supplies from City Pharmacy,” he said. He said in addition to this, several international partners are also supporting the province by providing supplies outside the regular supply chain. Dr. Mongolap said the province received Baby Bundles from the Highlands Foundation to assist mothers coming in to give birth. Currently, 51 health facilities and 98 aid posts across East Sepik are operating and serving the population. However, he noted that tribal conflicts in some districts continue to hinder the implementation of health projects, although teams still try their best to reach affected communities. Dr. Mongolap added that the provincial staff ceiling stands at 1,642, which includes about 39 doctors.

Local singer and songwriter Sailas Kania, popularly known as Saii Kay is set to take the stage tonight at The Cosmopolitan Club for his annual Saii Kay Bash.Saii Kay said he has hosted the bash during the first week of December for the past three years, as it falls during his birthday week. This year’s event carries extra significance as he celebrates 15 years in the music industry, marking his debut on the PNG music scene in 2010. To honour the milestone, the lineup will feature performances from Leonard Kania, Jnr Kopex, Gabz Kay, Cammy Bee, and rising group Nineden, adding to the excitement for fans. Saii Kay is expected to perform about 20 of his hit songs, both old and new, including crowd favorites Sila and Hemi Oraet. He says fans can look forward to an energetic and memorable night of music and celebration. With a strong line up and a milestone to celebrate, tonight’s bash promises to be one of Saii Kay’s most memorable shows yet. Fans are encouraged to come early, enjoy the performances and join him in marking 15 years of music, passion and dedication. When asked about his plans for 2025, Saii Kay revealed that he will be releasing his Volume 5 album and a PNG tour is also in the works.

The Miss Bird of Paradise contestants showcased their cultural heritage today during the judging of the Traditional Dress segment and float parade in Port Moresby city, ahead of the crowning tomorrow night. Nine contestants from Central, East Sepik, West Sepik, Western, Western Highlands, Enga, Morobe, Gulf and East New Britain provinces took part, each proudly representing their province through intricate ‘bilas’ or traditional attire, unique traditional patterns, handmade accessories and performances that reflected their cultural identity. Judges scored the contestants on authenticity, creativity, cultural knowledge and overall presentation. Head judge Lorna McPherson commended the effort put into the displays. “I just want to say to all the contestants how fantastic you all look today and the amount of effort that has been put in by the families and chaperones,” she said. “It’s about understanding your culture, understanding where you come from and what your culture means to you, your province and your people.” McPherson praised both the ‘bilas’ and the floats presented, acknowledging the hard work contributed by supporters behind the scenes. She also thanked her fellow judges and said they were looking forward to selecting the new queen. With the cultural judging complete, all attention now shifts to tomorrow night’s crowning, where one young woman will take home the Miss Bird of Paradise 2025 title.

FX Business Centre remains the country’s only authorized Fujifilm dealer—a partnership held since 2013.On Thursday night, the company officially launched its Fujifilm New Apeos printing devices at the Papua Club in Port Moresby.The updated Fujifilm New Apeos series comes with improved processing power and greater memory capacity compared to previous models.They also feature modern connectivity options, allowing users to connect via WiFi and scan directly to shared drives, SharePoint, or Google Drive.“You can connect your phone via WiFi, they’ve got scan-to-shared drive, SharePoint and Google Drive,” said Fuji Xerox Business Centre (FXBC) Service Manager Frederick Tolison.“The printers are also compatible with the Papercut app, which helps manage printing so you can see how much you’re printing and what it’s costing your business.”Tolison said the Fuji Xerox Business Centre, part of the Remington Group, offers a wide range of printing devices with various speeds suitable for small SMEs through to large-scale printing businesses.He noted that the Fujifilm New Apeos printers are both reliable and efficient.Meanwhile, Remington Group CEO Justin Kieseker said the launch comes at an ideal time as both government and industry continue to push for digital transformation in Papua New Guinea.“Technology is changing, and we intend to stay ahead in leaps and bounds,” Kieseker said.“The devices you’re seeing tonight are all digital devices, offering a lot more feature and function benefits.”“These devices are smart; they’ve got software features and smart control features.”The new printers are now available, and customers can contact FX Business Centre sales representatives for enquiries or orders.

Papua New Guinea has released a record K30.9 billion National Budget for 2026, with a strong focus on improving services in the country including the health service to the people.Treasurer Ian Ling-Stuckey tabled the budget in Parliament on Tuesday, describing it as a plan designed to boost frontline services, upgrade infrastructure and improve long-term health outcomes. K858.1 million has been set aside under the Capital Investment Budget for hospital construction, district health facilities and critical medical infrastructure. He said in the health sector, there is a 15.8% increase to K3,205 million. This includes a K88 million in increase for our Provincial Health Authorities, including POM General, to K1,476 million. There is a K27 million increase in medical supplies, from K240 million to K267 million. “There are also major increases for vaccines of 73%, of malaria and TB and other key drugs of over 40%. Church and Catholic Health Services, which provide an estimated half, of all health 11 services, to our rural people, increases by 22 per cent, or K46.3 million, to K259 million,” said the Treasurer. Ling Stucky underscored the health sector as an extremely vital sector and continues to be a priority area for National Budgets to ensure a healthy population in Papua New Guinea.

BSP Life has officially launched its new endowment product, Wantok Sumatin, aimed at helping Papua New Guineans better plan for future financial needs, particularly education.BSP Life entered the PNG market in January 2018 with its flagship product, Wantok Delite, which now has more than 11,000 policy holders. Since its establishment, BSP Life PNG has paid over 2,300 claims worth K60 million and under the Wantok Delite product alone, an additional K5.5 million in survival benefits has been returned to 1,800 families. “These are not just numbers,” said BSP Life Country Manager Nilson Singh. “These are widows who could pay for funerals, retirees who could build homes, and families who trusted us and we delivered.” Mr. Singh highlighted that fewer than 3% of Papua New Guineans have life insurance, largely due to limited awareness and low trust in the insurance sector. He stressed that planning for unexpected events is crucial, especially when it concerns children’s education. “The Wantok system is the heart of PNG’s culture, but it cannot carry every financial burden.” “This is the gap that Wantok Sumatin has been designed to fulfil.” School fees remain one of the biggest financial pressures on families, often forcing parents to borrow money or conduct fundraisers. Wantok Sumatin offers a structured solution with benefits including 20% cash payouts of the sum insured during the final five years of the policy term along with annual bonuses added to the policy. Policy holders pay premiums for the first 10 years and BSP Life covers the remaining years of the term. Eligibility starts at 5 years old and extends to a maximum entry age of 59. Customers can choose from 10-year, 15-year, or 20-year policy terms. Payment options include salary deductions, direct deposit, electronic transfers, and internet banking.

Papua New Guinea is through to another MSG Prime Minister’s Cup Grand Final after defeating Fiji 2–0 in the first men’s semi-final.PNG came out strong, pushing for an early advantage. Nigel Dabinyaba sent a well-placed cross to Tommy Semmy, narrowly missing the opener. Fiji’s Thomas Dunn responded with a powerful strike, but PNG goalkeeper Dave Tomare reacted expertly to keep the match leveled. Semmy continued to trouble the Fijian defence, with one of his shots rattling the crossbar. Midfielder Emmanuel “Manu” Simon controlled play in Fiji’s half, driving PNG’s attacking rhythm. After the break, PNG returned with renewed energy. Manu Simon forced another save, while Dabinyaba delivered a series of dangerous crosses. One of those found veteran striker Raymond Gunemba, whose first attempt struck the bar before he finished on the second effort linking up once again with Dabinyaba for the opening goal. PNG maintained heavy pressure, and it paid off when Rex Naime’s strike bounced off the crossbar. Gunemba reacted quickly to tap in the rebound, giving him his second goal and extending PNG’s lead. Defensively, PNG stayed solid throughout, shutting down Fiji’s key forwards Christopher Wasasala and Josiah Sela. Daniel Joe, supported by Thomas Yangu, Shane Sakael, and Abraham Allen, anchored a disciplined backline that held firm to the final whistle. Final Score: PNG 2 – Fiji 0 The win sends Papua New Guinea into the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup Grand Final, where they will look to secure another title to add to their previous two tournament victories.

CreditBank PNG has officially opened its new Waigani Branch, further strengthening its commitment to delivering convenient and accessible banking services for its customers.Located at Moki Business Park, the Waigani branch has been designed to offer a smooth and modern banking experience. The branch features a welcoming interior, self-service kiosks for quick everyday transactions, and on-site staff for personalized assistance. Speaking at the opening ceremony, CreditBank PNG Chief Executive Officer Danny Robinson said the new branch marks an important step in the bank’s ongoing transformation. “The Opening of Our Waigani Branch is a significant milestone in our journey,” said Mr Robinson. “It represents our continued commitment to bringing accessible banking services closer to our customers and the communities we serve.” He emphasized that while CreditBank continues to expand its physical presence, it remains firmly focused on digital innovation. “While our branches help bring our services closer to the community, we know that true accessibility goes beyond physical locations.” “Our digital-first approach allows customers to open their accounts online via the CreditBank mobile App and manage their daily banking from the comfort of their homes.” He also noted the growing demand for digital services nationwide, revealing that CreditBank now serves customers across all 22 provinces. Of all new accounts opened, 68 percent are now created online through the mobile app, reflecting a strong national shift toward digital banking. CreditBank PNG currently operates branches in Downtown Port Moresby, Lae, Mt Hagen, and Kokopo, with the new Waigani Branch adding to its expanding network.

Fiji has booked their place in the inaugural MSG Prime Minister’s Cup Women’s Grand Final after overcoming a determined Vanuatu side 3–1 in the second semi-final.They will now face hosts Papua New Guinea, who cruised past Solomon Islands earlier, setting up an exciting showdown for the tournament’s first women’s title. The Fiji–Vanuatu clash was intense from the opening whistle. Vanuatu came out firing, dominating the first 10 minutes and launching repeated attacks on Fiji’s goal. Striker Leilata Simon tested the keeper early with a shot on target, followed soon after by another strong run from Rita Solomon. Despite the pressure, Fiji held their defensive line. Fiji responded late in the first half with Adi Bakanicewa leading a promising push forward, only to be denied by Vanuatu goalkeeper Amelia Reddy. The tight contest saw both teams locked at 0–0 at halftime. The second half quickly swung in Fiji’s favour. Within minutes of the restart, winger Sereana Naweni broke through to score the match’s opening goal. Moments later, Vanuatu defender Henrietta Sangu received a yellow card as the pace picked up. Fiji widened the gap when substitute Narietta Leba, brought on in the second half, found the net to make it 2–0. But Vanuatu refused to back down. Their captain, Elesi Tabunase, sparked hope when Leimata Simon scored immediately after Fiji’s second goal, narrowing the scoreline to 2–1. Fiji nearly extended their lead again with Naweni threatening for her second of the match, but Reddy produced another crucial save. Vanuatu continued pressing hard for the equalizer, with Simon sending a header over the crossbar in a tense final push. With six minutes of added time, Vanuatu threw everything forward, but Fiji sealed the match when Sema Nasau slotted home the final goal, securing a 3–1 victory. Fiji now prepares to take on PNG in the inaugural first Grand Final of the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup Women’s competition.

The Semi- final games for the MSG Prime Ministers Cup for the women’s fixture have been rescheduled to Thursday, 20th November 2025.“Today is a rest day and tomorrow is when the finals kick off,” said Tournament Director, Noel Mobiha. “The reason why we are doing this is because one team didn’t turn up and HOC (Host Organizing Committee) had only a week to prepare before the launch last Tuesday.” He commended the HOC Chairman for his leadership in putting together the tournament in a week. The pullout of New Caledonia has disturbed this whole program and the Team, Officials and HOC had to come up with a solution that will satisfy all partners and fulfil the requirements as a tier 1 tournament of FIFA. Mobiha announced at a press conference today that Semi- finals will go ahead on Thursday and the Grand final will be on Sunday. He added that this tournament is a fitting way to celebrate the Melanesian spirit especially at this time when Papua New Guinea had just celebrated its 50th Independence anniversary. Due to player welfare considerations, teams have been given a 48-hour recovery period, which prompted the postponement of the semi-finals to tomorrow. Meanwhile, PNG Football Association (PNGFA) Technical Director, Mr. Paul Isarua spoke on behalf of the PNGFA and clarified that the changes for hosting semi- finals tomorrow has been welcomed by all participants. “When you look at it, on a general perspective we are complying with FIFA safeguarding protocols.” “We had some very competitive matches, so it is only right that they are given enough rest times.” The Women's fixture Semi- finals will see PNG play against Solomon Islands while Fiji will take on Vanuatu. For the men's fixture which will be later on in the day, will see PNG challenge Fiji and Vanuatu go up against Solomon Islands. All matches will be played at the PNG Football Stadium, Port Moresby city.