On the 26th of this month November, will mark 150 years since the Missionaries of the London Missionary Society arrived in Poreporena village with the Gospel. The day will be significantly remembered for the remarkable transformation of the village from hostility to peacefulness as the villagers accepted the arrival of the missionaries with the gospel and the ensuing settling of Christianity. A week-long program of celebration has been organized in Poreporena involving the United Church congregations in Hanuabada, Elevala, and Gabi. The villagers through the celebration will remember and honor the heroic efforts of the missionaries from Rarotonga to bring the gospel to the village and the compassion of the local villagers. This will see, Lakani Toi of Hanuabada who will accept and defend the missionaries into the village, Raga Tola of Elevala, in providing land to settle the missionaries in the village and Arua Daera of Hanuabada, who was converted as the first deacon and evangelist to help with the spread of the Good News. The Missionaries from the Cook Islands led by Ruatoka Koro and wife plus others, were assigned on a mission by the London Missionary Society to sail to Papua to spread the word of God and to establish their mission. 150 years later since that memorable day, Poreporena village has become a significant part of the early beginnings of London Missionary Society in Papua and the establishment of government and later in the transition to the United Church era of which it remains a stronghold to this day. The weeklong celebration of this significant occasion is led by the London Missionary Society 150th Anniversary Committee headed by the Poreporena Circuit. Committee Chairman, Dk Frank Guba, said the occasion is important to the three villages of Hanuabada, Elevala and Gabi comprising Poreporena to reflect on the events that unfolded 150 years ago, the benefits that have transpired over time for the people and the lessons learned going forward. “We are fortunate to have reached this milestone and we want to reflect on the last 150 years.” “This occasion is very significant to all of us to remember the great deeds of these noble men and women of God and their selfless sacrifices to bring the Good News to our part of the world and the ensuing benefits to our society that unfolded.” The celebrations will include an official opening and closing ceremonies at the Sir Hubert Murray Stadium with water activities including fishing, peroveta signing, traditional dances, Island Nights, Choir, Gospel, String Band, and Bible Dramas to take place during the week. In addition, Guba said that the spectacle of the opening ceremony will be the re-enactment of the arrival of the missionaries and the reception by the villagers. A special Cook Island night dedicated to Cook Island songs and dances is organized in honor of the Rarotonga missionaries. He further added that unlike past London Missionary Society celebrations in the village, this anniversary program will be more special to arouse interest in the younger generation of the history involved to determine the future. Meanwhile, guests from the government and church circles are invited to participate in the celebrations including guests from Rarotonga to signify the major role their ancestors played in bringing the gospel to Poreporena. Genesis

“Education is the pathway for the people of Simbu to rise and shine out in the different stages of development.” These were the words from Simbu Governor, Noah Kool who addressed a total of 76 garde twelve graduates of Boromil Technical Secondary School in its second open graduation held recently at Boromil of Gumine district. Kool said in his first term as Governor in 2012 and again in 2022, remained consistent in ensuring that Simbu has viable educational facilities in the province for accessibility, and also affordable. He also announced that the province now has a primary school teachers’ college, a nursing college, a community health worker training college, a number of technical vocational training schools, and a handful of external learning facilities for students needing upgrading of their academic marks. “Education remains the priority, every child who is enrolled be given quality education, and that no school-aged child must be left behind as education is the link to interpersonal and societal progress in all areas of advancement.” The Government is supporting the implementation of the 166 structure in the province and is fully aware of the cost implication in having the right infrastructure in place to support both learning of students and teacher’s welfare. “Simbu Government has no money. The annual K10 million PSIP grants cannot be spread out to the six districts in education alone.” “The support grants we give to schools, please make every toea be accounted for. We can build one classroom at a time.” “Therefore, I want to commend all the hard-working teachers in the province and the public servants for their due diligence and commitment to work, the provincial education administration, and other stakeholders in both government and non-government organizations that are investing in the education of Simbu.” Furthermore, he added that the provincial government will come up with incentives for best performing schools in the province. “Starting this year, we will give out incentives, and strengthen the initiative next year to boost teachers’ performances.” Meanwhile, Simbu Education Advisor, Bepwick Kutna also stated that Simbu is positioned with programs that can advance grade twelve students who do not find a placing in tertiary education. “In Kundiawa, there is a University of Technology’s DODL program, a centre from the University of Goroka, and general Flexible Open Distance Education (FODE) centre.” “As long as you receive your grade twelve certificate, you have many ways to move around in pursuing your education.” “If you don’t secure a space next year don’t sit back in the village. Go out and enquire to enrol in any of the programs on offer.”

Football or soccer will be the first sport on the 2023 Pacific Games program when PNG Mens National Team and the Womens National Teams play on November 17, 2023. Both the men and the women's team left early Monday morning on the first Charter Flight to Honiara, Solomon Island. The football competition will kick off two days early prior to the Official Opening of the Games on November 19, 2023, at the new Honiara Stadium. PNG Mens National Team: Dave Tomare, Roland Warisan, Vagi Koniel (goalkeepers), Daniel Joe, Abel Redenut, Godfrey Haro, Kolu Kepo, Emmanuel Simon, Joseph Joe, Troy Dobbin, Rex Naime, Oberth Simon, Ati Kepo, Tommy Semmy, Thomas Yagum, Nathaniel Eddie, Kenneth Arah, Yagi Yasasa, Pascal Kundi, Kila Karo, Nigel Dabinyaba, Tizoki Tangol and Philip Steven Head Coach Warren Moon, Assistant Coach David Muta, Team Manager Gari Moka, Goalkeeper Coach Godfrey Baniau, Kit Manager Koriak Upaiga PNG is placed in Group B which include Tuvalu and Vanuatu. PG2023 PRELIMINARY DRAW Nov 17 - Lawson Tama Stadium 1200 PNG vs Tuvalu Nov 23 - Lawson Tama Stadium 1200 PNG PNG vs Vanuatu Football Medal History Gold Medal Nil Silver Medal Nil Bronze Medal 3 - 1969, 1987, 2015. Source: PNG Football Association

In a significant event held on Thursday, the launching of the name changing of what was known as the Pacific Institute of Leadership and Governance (PILAG) is now known as the Somare Institute of Leadership and Governance (SILAG). This renaming marks a pivotal moment in the institution's history, as it pays tribute to the late Grand Chief, Sir Michael Somare, a visionary statesman who played a crucial role in shaping the nation's development. Honouring a visionary leader, Sir Michael, fondly known as the "Father of the Nation," was a towering figure in Papua New Guinea's political landscape and as the country's first Prime Minister following independence in 1975, he led the nation with unwavering dedication, promoting unity and fostering economic growth. His commitment to good governance, ethical leadership, and nation-building serves as an inspiration to countless individuals across PNG. This change not only honors his legacy but also underscores the institute's renewed focus on fostering leadership excellence and promoting good governance in Papua New Guinea. In terms of leadership development under the new name, this will continue to offer a wide range of programs and courses designed to develop leadership skills, promote ethical decision-making and foster good governance practices. The institute which was initially based at the Public Service Institute premises at Konedobu in Port Moresby was then later moved to the six mile Annex and former Dental College and now at the present site located at Waigani. It was then abolished and absorbed by the Administrative College before changing its name to the Papua New Guinea Institute of Public Administration then to the Pacific Institute of Leadership and Governance and finally changed to Somare Institute of Leadership and Governance. Among the students at the 6 mile Annex was the late former Prime Minister himself; the Grand Chief and many others who have distinguished themselves in the Public Service. In addition, the institution also has a significance to it as it was also the birth place of Pangu Party which started as the Bully Beef Club. Therefore, is fitting that the name be changed to SILAG. Speaking during this important occasion was Prime Minister, James Marape who thanked the people of East Sepik and the Somare family for allowing this name to be part of the institution and also more importantly, be part of the national character and story going foward. “The Somare name signifies the change in mindset, value and national perception change and what we must be as Papua New Guineans and so it is fitting that we witness the transition of a name where the history tells us all knowing that these are the moments that shaped our country.” Furthermore, Prime Minister Marape has urged all public servants to rise up to the name when they come to pursue their studies at SILAG so that they can be able to inspire to do better. “As we give this name, I want to ask that we ensure that every public servant is reconfigured to put on the ethics of working hard and to carry our country just like the great man himself did.” Meanwhile, Prime Minister Marape also stated that the institution has put forward a proposal to be a University for the public sector. This he said will embrace the pacific and the country as a whole in which he is now looking forward in preparing the institution as a university. “I am more than happy to support an institution that produces efficient, effective and delivery of public service and with that I show my full support at the thought of elevating it to a university.”

John Swire & Sons (JS&S) PNG Limited and owner of Swire Shipping Limited, yesterday officially launched two new scholarships for Papua New Guinean students: Swire University Scholarships and Taikoo College Scholarships. The fully funded scholarships will enable Papua New Guinean students to access financial support for vocational and tertiary studies for next year’s academic year, 2024. This is part of Swire’s Higher Education Scholarship Program aimed to support those pursuing their studies. Steamships Trading Company Limited, whose biggest investor is John Swire & Sons (JS&S), will now be administering the scholarship program on behalf of Swire. The new Swire Scholarships will on the other hand, also complement the Steamships’ Community Grants Program which supports early childhood learning and primary schools. The fully funded scholarship will enable fifteen PNG students to access financial support for both vocational training and tertiary studies. The total scholarship value is at K275, 000 per annum and is anticipated that this program runs indefinitely. Managing Director of Steamships, Rupert Bray stated that ten fully funded scholarships are for the tertiary students including, Divine Word, University of Technology, University of Papua New Guinea and Pacific Adventist University and five scholarships are for vocational training institute through IEA Tafe College. “All scholars will benefit from having their full tuition fees paid plus cost of accommodation and airfares.” “So, what we want to be able to do is to take away some of the challenges that PNG families face in funding tertiary education as it is very difficult to find the funds these days.” “The scholarships enable people to access opportunities to enhance their knowledge, skills and confidence, empowering them to fulfil their potential.” “The long-term impact of this program will be to provide trained and skilled individuals who will help meet the pressing shortage of qualified graduates and is also anticipated that most of the graduating scholars will be offered employment within the Steamships Group or Swire Shipping PNG.” Meanwhile, Community Engagement Manager of Steamships Trading Company Limited, Hane Toua, plays a key role in organizing the scholarship program. She stated that upon applying for a scholarship, requirements must be met, and all details are included online. Toua also explained that once an applicant is successful upon receiving a scholarship, terms and conditions will apply and that the standard must remain through till the completion of one’s education. “The expectation that we have is for the students to fully commit to their studies and do well as we are investing a lot in them.” “This will add value to what we give and so we will support to ensure that they graduate.” Details about the eligibility criteria and application process can be accessed on the respective application forms which are available online on; Swire University Scholarship Application Form 2023 and Taikoo College Scholarship Application Form 2023.

The PNG Games Council Executive Committee recently met in Port Moresby and deliberated on a request for the rescheduling of the 8th PNG Games from the National Government through the Sports Minister, Don Polye. Chairman of the PNG Games Council, Albert Veratau, informed the Executive Committee that the government's reasons were threefold. Firstly, the government funding commitment for the Games was not released to complete Games preparations. Secondly, Team PNG participation at the 2023 Honiara Pacific Games from November 17th to the 4th of December 2023, was too close to the PNG Games scheduled on the 6th- 16th December 2023. And finally, the likelihood of passengers stranded at domestic airports during the Christmas/New Year peak period and for provincial teams travelling to and from the nation's capital during that time would cause issues. This considering the current daily trend of flight downgrades and cancellations by the national carrier Air Niugini, which has caused inconveniences for the travelling public. Veratau appealed to the Council to reschedule the Games and move forward to the New Year when Pacific Games participants return home and the airline industry goes past the peak period. The Executive Committee comprising of Nane Tomala- Momase Region, Vincent Pesnu- Highlands, Conrad Golumu-NGI and Henry Kavana-Southern, Auvita Rapilla- PNG Olympic Committee and Peter Aglua PNG- Sports Foundation have been recommended for the Games to be moved to the 10th-20th of January 2024. For compliance with the PNG Games Charter, the PNG Games Council comprising of 22 provincial representatives will be invited to vote through a postal resolution to endorse the recommendation. Meanwhile, Chairperson of the Games Organizing Committee, John Susuve, has applauded the Executive Committee for the wise decision. Further stating, that the slight delay was a blessing for all provinces to complete fundraising activities and finalize logistics arrangements to take teams to Port Moresby. He also appealed to the business and corporate organizations in the host city to come forward and assist the Games Organizing Committee to deliver a successful Game.

A brand-new aid post aimed at enhancing maternal health care and treatment of children was commissioned recently in Sarkim, Wosera-Gawi in East Sepik province. The aid post is part of work implemented under Save the Children’s Safe Children Healthy Mothers (SCHM) nutrition project in partnership with the East Sepik Provincial Health Authority (PHA) and Sarkim community members. This initiative is set to have a profound and positive impact on the health and nutrition of the community, which consists of approximately 1,300 people who previously had to walk two and a half hours to access medical services at Wombisa or Kaukia Health Facility. Sarkim Ward Councilor, Mr. Philip Kinbange, explained that some frequent issues faced included lack of nutrition and stunting amongst children. He said it has been hard for mothers to access health services because of the distance they had to walk, so they decided that they needed a health service right at their doorstep. “We attended two trainings by Save the Children and were asked to identify common issues in the community, which was a lack of nutrition and stunting.” “The mothers don’t get proper medical support because of how far they must walk.” Under the SCHM project, Kinbange, women and youth leaders from Sarkim formed a Community Development Committee (CDC) and were tasked to implement nutrition-sensitive projects within their communities to promote healthy practices by identifying an issue and coming up with a solution. The Sarkim CDC then attended training to improve their knowledge of appropriate nutrition practices, identify health and nutrition issues as well as solutions and finally prioritize, plan, and implement one project and they decided they wanted to build an aid post. Meanwhile, Wosera-Gawi District Health Manager, Stanley Masi acknowledged the work by Save the Children to support primary healthcare services in communities. He said a priority of the East Sepik PHA is to build and maintain the 200 aid posts within the province which now includes Sarkim aid post. In addition to this, SCHM Project Manager, Ronny Inaha, also expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, stating that the commissioning of this aid post is a testament to their commitment to improve the lives of the most vulnerable community. He said the SCHM project is supported by the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP). It aims to reduce stunting among children ages 0-5 years, reduce family violence and promote healthy practices in the communities. Furthermore, some key benefits of the aid post include: • Reduced Mortality Rates: Timely access to basic maternal and child healthcare services will lead to a significant reduction in maternal and child mortality rates. • Improved Nutrition practices: Through the nutrition project, the community are receiving education and support to ensure better dietary practices for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and children under 5, which is important for the physical and cognitive development of children and the overall well-being of caregivers. • Enhanced Quality of Life: Local villagers can look forward to an improved quality of life, and the burden of travelling long distances for healthcare is reduced.

A major barrier that affects proper service delivery down to the Ward levels is the lack of communication between the Local Level Government (LLG) president, managers, LLG sector officers and District Administrations. This was one of the main challenges identified during the recent East New Britain Provincial Administration (ENBPA) annual LLG Leaders’ Conference that was held at the Gazelle International hotel. President of Sinivit LLG, Boniface Gerep, who was a participant representative during the conference, stated that communication is lacking in all levels of government. “All LLGs have their own issues such as not working together and the lack of communication between the presidents, managers, and sector heads.” “Therefore, this meeting has united us to work out our differences and work together to deliver services to the people in the respective LLGs.” Gerep also made mention that this is the first time for most of the LLG leaders to attend such a program and thanked the ENBPA for the four- day workshop as they have learned a lot of things. On behalf of the respective LLG Presidents and Managers, Gerep thanked the provincial administration through the District and LLG affairs division for the conference. “We have come up with some ways forward to address these challenges and now we have been empowered one more time and I encourage all presidents and LLGs to take heed of what we have learnt and implement them in our LLG Administrations.” He also made a call to both the Provincial and District Administration to make improvements in the release of funds stating that there is funding from the national government and other donors, however, has not been released to the wards and LLGs. Meanwhile, ENB Acting Administrator, Levi Mano, on behalf of the public service, acknowledged the LLG leaders for their commitment towards the exercise in making their time available to attend the four-day conference. He reminded the leaders that they are public servants and must always at the back of the people to always rediscover and rethink the way they do things, behave, and think and these four days is the time for that movement to start. “I encourage you leaders to identify those in your communities and engage them to run programs that will benefit and give back funding to the people.”

The University of Auckland (UoA) and the Auckland University of Technology (AUT) have shown interest in building partnership with the universities in Papua New Guinea, after a recent visit to Auckland by students from the University of Papua New Guinea (UPNG). The winning team of the 2023 UPNG Student Representative Council (SRC) Luther Wenge Debate Competition, recently travelled to Auckland, New Zealand, which was hosted by the University of Auckland and the Auckland University of Technology, in a one-week meaningful engagement which included activities such as panel discussions, campus tours, and cultural activities. The engagement was supported by the Office of the Pro Vice-chancellor Pacific, for both UoA and AUT, which resulted in both universities showing interest in seeing this program grow and continue in the future. The UoA Pro Vice-Chancellor, Professor, Jemaima Tiatia-Siau, indicated that the University of Auckland wishes to establish a long-term partnership with UPNG and PNG as a whole through this opportunity. This was the same feedback from the Pacific Advancement Office in AUT who were also keen on seeing more PNG Students in Auckland. The AUT Assistant Pro Vice-Chancellor, Mr. Rennie Atfield-Douglas on the other hand, also made mention that AUT is looking forward to building this engagement and relationship. This is a first-of-its-kind opportunity where a student-led initiative has seen international engagement and partnership between UPNG and UoA, and there is hope for more meaningful international engagement so that UPNG students get much needed exposure to international universities. One of the major prizes of the 2023 UPNG Student Representative Council (SRC) debate competition was to see the winning team travel to New Zealand as part of a promising partnership between the 2023 UPNG Student Representative Council and the Commonwealth Students’ Association (CSA). This is an initiative of the 2023 UPNG SRC, under the leadership of the President, Luther Kising, supported by the Commonwealth Students’ Association through its Pacific Regional Representative, Bradley Yombon-Copio. Furthermore, the support given to UPNG SRC in future events such as student exchange programs and debates, will see students’ exposure to world standard institutions and learn from a country well rooted in culture. Former UPNG SRC President, Yombon-Copio also expressed that he would like to see this program grow and he is so thankful for all the support he had received to drive this initiative. “This engagement opened the door to opportunities such as international exposure and learning experience for students from UPNG, as the students not only represented UPNG but the Country as whole, and I hope to see the support from the University’s administration in the future, given the potential this engagement has shown.” Moreover, there is hope for more meaningful regional and international student engagements from Universities within PNG, as such engagement is an avenue to share knowledge and resources if long term partnership is established, and also to strengthen relationships between students and the universities. This is a milestone engagement for PNG to see such initiatives led by students as education is a priority and initiatives like this have the potential to influence change which will see young PNG people representing at a regional and international level. Meanwhile, the winning team led by Bradley Yombon-Copio, included the 2023 UPNG SRC Female Vice President, Gloria Mabiria, and students; Lovanchor Dotson, Edna Kiisaku, and Clive Akuru who travelled to Auckland. The 2023 UPNG SRC Luther Wenge Debate Competition commenced early in semester two of 2023 and was sponsored by the Morobe Governor, Luther Wenge. The funds were then allocated by the UPNG SRC’s Debate Committee, for financial support for the students’ trip to Auckland, as well as additional financial support from Kumul Petroleum Holdings Limited.

As the final extension deadline for National Federations to settle their levy fees rapidly approaches, the Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) has urgently called upon the Government of Papua New Guinea for immediate support. This plea comes amidst the varying degrees of levy fee payments by National Federations, a crucial funding component for Team PNG's participation in the upcoming Pacific Games. The deadline is set for the Monday the 6th of November. In November 2022, PNGOC invoiced National Federations for athlete and official levies, allowing a full year to secure these necessary funds. The PNGOC gave a final deadline for payment of levies on September 27th to all 21 sporting games. To date, only five sports, which are Boxing, Netball, Swimming, Tennis and Va’a, have paid their levy in full, while six sports have covered 20- 50 percent of their levy payment. However, eight sports have yet to contribute any fees at all. This situation places the participation of many athletes and the success of Team PNG at the Pacific Games in jeopardy. Chairperson of the PNG Athletes Commission, Ryan Pini, has highlighted a crucial issue; the responsibility of raising these levies falls primarily on the shoulders of the National Federation Executives, not the athletes. "Athletes should not be burdened with paying more than 40 percent (K800) of the levy fee if they are requested to contribute. This underscores a significant systemic issue within the sporting community regarding funding and support.” Given that the Government Grant has always been a fundamental part of funding and supporting Team PNG's extensive budget, its absence this year raises severe concerns. Without this crucial support, PNGOC as a last resort may have to reduce the size of the team after the 6th of November levy extension deadline, potentially dashing the hopes of numerous dedicated athletes and diminishing the nation’s medal chances. With Team PNG's departure scheduled for Monday the 13th of November, time is of the essence. Therefore, PNGOC has urged that the Government provide the necessary assistance to Team PNG, comprising 41 teams across 21 sports, including men's, women's, mixed, and para teams. This funding is not just a financial investment; it is an investment in the athletes, national pride, and the nation’s cultural legacy. In addition, the Pacific Games represents a pinnacle for many of our athletes, offering a platform where the majority of Papua New Guinea's sportsmen and sportswomen can showcase their talents on an international stage. It is a critical steppingstone for many, with only a select few progressing to higher levels of competition like the Commonwealth and Olympic Games. Meanwhile, President of PNGOC, Sir John Dawanincura, has underscored the gravity of the situation stating that the Pacific Games is not just a major sporting event but is a celebration of the national talent and spirit. “With Team PNG's departure, the absence of Government funding would not only be a devastating blow to the morale of our athletes and officials, but also to our nation's medal prospects."

Rhyse Martin expressed pride in the development of the game in Papua New Guinea as he prepares to become the most capped Kumuls player in Sunday’s Pacific Bowl final against Fiji at Santos National Football Stadium. Martin’s 17th Test will eclipse the 16 international appearances for the Kumuls by Paul Aiton and John Wilshere, who are members of the current PNG coaching staff, and the legendary Stanley Gene. It has taken 10 seasons for Martin to achieve the record but with the introduction of the Pacific Championships at the end of each season the Kumuls are now set to play more regularly. [caption id="attachment_46957" align="aligncenter" width="787"] Rhyse Martin is preparing for his 17th Test appearance for the Kumuls©Scott Davis/NRL Photos[/caption] “I've been playing for the Kumuls since 2014, but we've only probably had one Test a year for five or six of those years, so it's a pretty special moment,” Martin said. “For me, it's a good personal achievement, but I'm just happy that I'm still capable to play and make this team, so I’m just proud of that.” The former Bulldogs second-rower, who now plays for Leeds, was the only overseas-based player in the PNG team when he made his debut under Mal Meninga against Tonga at Lae. Of the team selected to play the Bati on Sunday, only five don’t have NRL or Super League contracts but they play in Queensland Cup, while Storm stars Justin Olam and Xavier Coates are unavailable due to injury. With PNG Hunters joining the Queensland Cup in 2014 and the possibility of a Papua New Guinea side becoming the NRL's 18th team, the Kumuls are only expected to get stronger. “The first time I came in and played for the Kumuls in 2014 we played Tonga up in Lae, and that was an experience I remember to this day,” Martin said. They didn't have grass down the middle of the field, it was gravel. “They didn't have grass down the middle of the field, it was gravel. Everyone was just running to the sidelines because that's where the grass was. [caption id="attachment_46958" align="aligncenter" width="1224"] Kumuls bring the smiles[/caption] “It was a very special game for me. I was the one overseas player in that game, but fast forward to now, it is just a proud moment to see where the Kumuls were - and where we are now.” Martin, who qualifies for PNG through his late father Steve, paid tribute to Aiton - the former Panthers and Sharks hooker, whom he played alongside at the 2017 World Cup - as well as Wilshere and Gene. Wilshere, who played for the Western Reds, Melbourne Storm and St George Illawarra Dragons before finishing his career in Super League, was a regular member of the Kumuls team from 2000 until 2009. “It's great to have Paul and John still as part of the Kumuls team,” Martin said. “The experience that they have and the platform that they put down for us to get to where we are, I have a lot of respect for those guys. “I got to play with Paul and I said to John the other day that it would have been nice to get a game alongside him too, so it’s great to have them here with the squad “I am very grateful for what he is continuing to do for the Kumuls team, what he is putting into the squad, and how much respect the boys have for him, and what he's done in the past.” [caption id="attachment_46959" align="aligncenter" width="798"] Paul Aiton (right) with Kumuls coach Justin Holbrook©Scott Davis /NRL Photos[/caption] Gene is a legend of the game in both Papua New Guinea and England, where he played 205 matches for Hull KR, Hull FC, Huddersfield and Bradford, as well as 16 Tests for the Kumuls. “I run into him occasionally in England as he is working at Hull FC now so I see him during the year,” Martin said. “He's one of those guys who probably should have played a lot more Tests than he did because he was around for a long time. “He’s a massive Kumuls legend, I remember hearing his name from day one.” Like Aiton, Gene and Wilshere, Martin has had the honour of captaining the Kumuls, while the 29-year-old is also PNG’s greatest Test point-scorer and goalkicker. “I am really proud of Rhyse and I think it is really good that he is going to break the record,” Aiton said. “For him to have had the opportunity to wear the Kumuls jersey so many times is a great thing for him and for the fans because it means that there is more international footy. “Rhyse brings a lot to this team with his experience in the NRL and Super League, and his leadership. "He is serious when he needs to be but he can also be light-hearted when he wants to be so he is a really good leader and deserving of this record.” Source: NRL.Com

As the 2023 Pacific Games approaches, Team PNG was lucky enough to receive much needed support from City Pharmacy Group of Companies Limited, who presented a total of 500 Health Kits to those participating. CPL’s Head of Pharmacy, Pradeep Panda, made the presentation to the Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee and Team PNG at the City Pharmacy Head Office in Port Moresby yesterday. “Each kit consists of essential health items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, soaps, hand sanitizers, deodorants and stop pain sprays. All health kits are valued at a total of over K20, 000. We are happy to aid in Team PNG’s efforts as they go- for- gold in the Pacific Games.” PNG Olympic Committee Board member and Team PNG Chef de Mission for Pacific Games 2023, Faye-Zina Lalo, received the donations of behalf of the national team and conveyed her gratitude to the CPL Team for their timely assistance and acknowledged the company’s steadfast support to the PNG Olympic Committee and Team PNG. Also, present at the Health Kit donation presentation, were athlete representatives from the sporting code Vaá, Mauri Ila, Kone Kenny, Frank Agalu, Minson Kulu, and Charlie Earnest. The aspiring young athletes thanked CPL and were happy to receive the donations on behalf of Team PNG. Furthermore, as health and hygiene are important to each and every individual, this generous donation to the athletes and officials who will be representing Papua New Guinea at the international sporting stage, is a necessary part of preparations leading up to the games. The Pacific Games will kick start on the 19th of November in Honiara, Solomon Islands.