Kopr8 Sports and Events received a major boost today when Vodafone PNG officially signed on as the title sponsor for the 2026 Kopr8 Futsal Championship, marking a new chapter for the growing inter-company competition.Speaking at the official signing and Captains’ Meet and Greet, Director for Kopr8, Julieanne Bodigai, welcomed team captains, company representatives, and members of the media to the two-part event, which included the sponsorship signing and the official captains’ roll call. Bodigai said the partnership represents a significant milestone for the championship, which has been running for the past five years. “For the last five years, this corporate championship has grown steadily without a major sponsor. Today marks a turning point as we officially welcome Vodafone PNG as our title sponsor,” she said. “With this partnership, the competition will now be known as the Vodafone Kopr8 Futsal Championship 2026. This support not only strengthens the tournament but reinforces our mission of connecting champions through networking and sportsmanship.” She acknowledged Vodafone PNG for its continued involvement in corporate sporting initiatives and for actively participating in the tournament since 2022. Bodigai also commended the many companies participating in this year’s championships, noting that teams will compete across multiple divisions throughout the year. The participating organizations are as follows: Bank of Papua New Guinea Bank South Pacific CreditBank PNG National Sports Trust Limited Ok Tedi Mining Limited Paradise Foods Limited She thanked team officials and captains for their commitment and encouraged healthy competition and teamwork throughout the season. Following the signing ceremony, Vodafone PNG formally addressed the attendees. Charmaine ToRobert, Manager for PR and Sponsorships at Vodafone PNG, described the sponsorship as more than a branding opportunity, emphasizing its broader community impact. “Today is more than just an announcement. It is a celebration of connection, teamwork and community,” ToRobert said. “At Vodafone, we believe in bringing people together. That is why we are incredibly proud to be the official naming rights sponsor of the 2026 Vodafone Kopr8 Futsal Championship.” She highlighted sport as a powerful unifying force within Papua New Guinea’s corporate sector, noting that futsal reflects the same values that drive business success. “Futsal is fast, dynamic and driven by teamwork, values that perfectly reflect who we are at Vodafone. Just like in business, success comes from communication, trust and supporting one another every step of the way.” ToRobert added that the partnership is an investment in corporate wellbeing, encouraging healthy lifestyles, strengthening professional relationships, and creating lasting memories beyond the competition. “We are honored to stand alongside all participating organizations and players as you train, compete and represent your teams with pride. Here’s to great goals, great teamwork and an even greater corporate community,” she said. The event concluded with the official signing of the agreement, formally cementing Vodafone PNG’s role as title sponsor for the 2026 season. The VodafoneKopr8 Futsal Championship is expected to draw strong participation across multiple divisions this year, further strengthening corporate networking and sportsmanship in Papua New Guinea.

The Eliseo Group of Companies is preparing to officially open Magic Galaxy, a first-of-its-kind indoor arcade and family entertainment centre in Papua New Guinea.Located within the newly built Eliseo Premium Shop at Hohola in Port Moresby, the facility is scheduled to open its doors on March 18, 2026. Speaking ahead of the launch, Magic Galaxy Store Manager Liu Andy said the new entertainment hub has been designed as a safe and inclusive space for everyone, from children as young as two years old to adults seeking recreation and relaxation. “Magic Galaxy is more than just an arcade. It is a safe space for families, friends, and the wider community to come together and create joyful memories,” Liu said. Developed under the Eliseo Group, Magic Galaxy introduces a large-scale indoor concept built around the theme “Boundless Fantasy, Endless Joy”. The centre features ten themed attractions catering to a wide age range. Highlights include a Tumble Castle interactive playground, dynamic bumper cars, a high-rope challenge course, a nano sand pool for younger children, a VR arena, modern arcade gaming machines, themed party rooms, a dome theatre experience, shooting and archery activities, and premium bowling lanes. According to the management, the venue fills a long-standing gap in Port Moresby’s entertainment landscape by offering an all-weather, all-ages facility where families can enjoy quality time together under one roof. Liu emphasized that safety remains the cornerstone of the project. “All arcade machines, bumper cars, and every entertainment and gaming unit have met full safety requirements and standards,” she said. Dedicated safety personnel will be stationed across attractions, and the facility will operate under strict health and cleaning protocols to ensure a secure and hygienic environment for all visitors. Beyond entertainment, Magic Galaxy aims to become a strong community partner. Plans are underway for school collaborations, public welfare days, and the prioritized hiring and training of local staff. With its official opening set for March 18, 2026, Magic Galaxy is expected to bring a new era of indoor family entertainment to Port Moresby city, offering a vibrant and safe environment where joy truly knows no age limit.

A new nationwide push for unity and improved healthcare was launched yesterday in Port Moresby city as the "We Are One Foundation" (WAO), a charitable arm of the Islands Petroleum with two large-scale fundraising events set for 2026.The initiative brings together communities across the country through a Mother’s Day Charity Music Festival and a multi-location Charity Colour Run, both designed to raise funds for critical health services while promoting a message of shared responsibility. WAO Foundation Director Kavitha Bluett said, the Mother’s Day Charity Music Festival is scheduled for 10th May 2026 at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium. Proceeds from the event will go toward supporting a dedicated Cervical Cancer Unit at Port Moresby General Hospital. She confirmed that all funds raised will be directed to the hospital, targeting improved screening, treatment and support services for women. Cervical cancer remains a major health concern in Papua New Guinea, with many cases detected at advanced stages. Several prominent Papua New Guinean performers, along with Australia-based PNG artist Justin Wellington, have volunteered to perform without payment in support of the cause. Bluett said, “The campaign reflects a shift toward locally driven solutions. We believe lasting change must come from within our own communities. These events are about stepping forward together and investing in our nation’s health."Beyond the concert, WAO will take its message of unity on the road with a Charity Colour Run spanning eight centres from the month of June to August. The run is expected to draw families, youth groups, corporate teams and community organizations under the theme “We Are One – Wan Bel, One Heart.” Participants will contribute through the purchase of official event T-shirts, with proceeds supporting WAO’s health and community programs. She further stated that, “The 2026 activities form part of a broader long-term strategy aimed at strengthening healthcare access, encouraging civic participation and building partnerships between the private sector, government and communities.” Event tickets and registration details are expected to be released in the coming weeks.

Prime Minister James Marape has announced ongoing discussions with National Rugby League (NRL) leadership to secure Papua New Guinea Rugby League representation at the highest level, while also unveiling ambitious tourism and infrastructure plans linked to upcoming international sporting events.PM Marape said talks with NRL executives and board leaders were progressing to ensure Papua New Guinea Rugby League has formal representation within the league’s governance structure. “With NRL leadership, the chairman and I have been in discussion. PNG Rugby League will have a place in our front side, so there’s work in progress,” he said. He indicated that once finalized, PNG Rugby League would have representation on the NRL Board of Chiefs, ensuring the country’s local competition has a voice at the decision-making level. Beyond rugby league governance, the Prime Minister outlined a major tourism development plan for Central Province, in partnership with the National Capital District (NCD). Villages including Tubusereia, Barakau, Gaire, Gabagaba, Roku, Porebada, Lele and Kido — located along the coastal fringes of Port Moresby — have been earmarked as part of the first special economic zone designated for tourism. “We will work with the city and national government to ensure these villages are developed to embrace visitors who come here, with motels and accommodation facilities,” PM Marape said. The initiative will also extend inland to the Sogeri Mountains, near the starting point of the historic Kokoda Track, further broadening tourism opportunities. PM Marape described the authentic Central Province lifestyle as “amongst the best on planet Earth” and praised the hospitality of its people, saying the region is well positioned to host visitors expected for upcoming international events. Papua New Guinea is preparing for major sporting milestones, including the BC 2026 event and anticipated games in 2028, which are expected to draw significant international attention. The Prime Minister also provided an update on the construction of a new rugby league Centre of Excellence, which is expected to take shape by the end of next year. Once completed, the facility will house the sport’s business unit and serve as a key operational base from 2028 to 2035. PM Marape revealed that he had visited the Penrith Panthers Centre of Excellence in Australia last year and was impressed by its simplicity and efficiency. “They have a simple but very efficient Centre of Excellence that has produced the success they’ve received thus far,” he said. “We will build something that is modest but functional — something that boosts our team and prepares us for the future.” In the longer term, the Prime Minister said the government, in collaboration with the Governor, plans to upgrade Sir Hubert Murray Stadium into a permanent national home capable of seating between 30,000 and 40,000 people. In the meantime, the existing facility will receive upgrades over the next decade to ensure readiness for 2028 and beyond. Surrounding infrastructure, including parking facilities and a modern market, will also be developed as part of broader city improvements. “This part of our city will be updated in preparation for 2028,” Mr Marape said. The Prime Minister thanked officials and organisers for their work in preparing the current facilities, describing the developments as part of a long-term national strategy to strengthen sport, tourism and economic growth.

The incoming PNG Chiefs have confirmed that appointing a head coach is their top priority as preparations ramp up for the club’s entry into the National Rugby League (NRL) in 2028.Chief Executive Officer Lorna McPherson and General Manager Michael Chammas addressed the media following the official opening of the club’s headquarters, outlining plans for recruitment, infrastructure upgrades and brand development. Chammas said securing the right coach within the next three months is critical to laying the foundation for the franchise. “Our first priority is the coach,” he said. “We want to make sure we get the best coach possible and work closely with the NRL and the ARL Commission to secure the right person.” He emphasised that the role extends beyond on-field performance, noting the successful candidate must also ensure players and their families are well supported in Papua New Guinea. Several high-profile names have reportedly shown interest, including current PNG Kumuls coach Jason Demetriou and former international Adrian Lam. However, officials stressed that no decision has been finalized. Board director Marcus Bai said player recruitment will only begin once a coach is appointed. “The coach will come in and give us a plan. He will identify the players to fit the structure he wants to build,” Bai said. Club officials also revealed that expansion of the National Football Stadium is under review to meet anticipated demand once the Chiefs join the competition. The current capacity of approximately 15,000 seats could increase to between 22,000 and 24,000, with additional corporate boxes under consideration. Final designs and timelines are yet to be confirmed. CEO McPherson acknowledged the organization is still in its early stages, currently operating with a small executive team. “Rome was never built in a day,” she said. “We are building this club step by step.” Plans are also underway to develop player accommodation and finalise the club’s logo and identity, with cultural advisers expected to play a key role in shaping a brand that reflects Papua New Guinea’s heritage. “It has to be right for Papua New Guinea,” McPherson said. “This is the people’s team.” Chammas highlighted the importance of strengthening grassroots and development systems to ensure long-term sustainability rather than relying solely on marquee signings. “The foundation is the most important part,” he said. “If we build it properly, the success will follow.” He added that existing development programs have positioned the club ahead of schedule compared to previous NRL expansion teams. With executive leadership now in place and infrastructure planning underway, attention will turn firmly to the coaching appointment — a decision the PNG Chiefs say will shape the franchise’s future for years to come.

Registration for the 2026 academic year at the Mt Hagen School of Nursing officially commenced on 16 February 2026, with strong early interest from prospective students.On the first day alone, 36 students successfully completed their registration, and with seven days remaining (27th February), the number of enrolments is expected to grow further. According to College Director Mr. Gabriel Kewa, academic classes are scheduled to begin on 2 March 2026. He said, “The very first student to register was Miss Salome Tade, who travelled from Rabaul, East New Britain Province by air. She was formally welcomed and given the honour of completing the first registration.” In a special photo captured on registration day, Mr Gabriel Kewa, Director of Mt Hagen School of Nursing, is seen assisting Miss Tade with her enrolment at the school’s office. The Mt Hagen School of Nursing continues to provide opportunities for aspiring healthcare professionals, supporting the growth of nursing and medical services in Papua New Guinea.

The PNG Chiefs have taken another significant step toward their historic entry into the NRL in 2028, officially opening their new headquarters at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby. The milestone event brought together senior political leaders and club officials, underlining the national significance of Papua New Guinea’s bid to field a team in Australia’s premier rugby league competition. Among those in attendance were Prime Minister James Marape, Foreign Affairs Minister Justin Tkatchenko, NCD Governor Powes Parkop, and Australia’s High Commissioner to PNG, John Feakes. The ceremony was emceed by David Townsend, who described the moment as “a major step” toward the club’s 2028 debut, adding that excitement was building across the country. Chief Executive Officer ffor PNG Chiefs, Lorna McPherson said the opening of the club’s first-floor office at the Santos National Football Stadium marked the beginning of a new chapter for the organisation. “Today really marks a very important milestone for the Papua New Guinea Chiefs,” McPherson said. She thanked national leaders for attending, saying their presence reflected the importance of the club not only in sporting terms but as a vehicle for broader national development. “We know how much your time means to you, and having you here shows the importance of the club to Papua New Guinea and the shared belief in what the club will do for PNG — not just in sport, but about national pride, about uniting the country, and about the economic opportunity the team will bring.” McPherson also acknowledged newly appointed Chair Catherine Harris, General Manager Michael Chammas, and fellow board directors, praising the leadership and experience being assembled ahead of the club’s entry into the NRL. Setting out her vision, McPherson said the club would be founded on “culture, family, pride and uniting the country together,” with ambitions to become a lasting national institution. “We are going to build a national institution for Papua New Guinea, one that we will be proud to leave behind,” she said. “Institutions outgrow all of us, and it’s something we as a team will be very proud of as we go forward.” While acknowledging that the organisation is still in its early stages — with only two employees currently on staff — McPherson said groundwork was already underway to establish the club’s long-term operational framework. Key priorities include:        Finalizing the organizational structure        Recruiting a head coach suited to Papua New Guinea        Advancing plans for a Centre of Excellence        Establishing player accommodation        Building operational systems to support the team The current offices at the stadium will serve as temporary headquarters until the planned Centre of Excellence is completed. “We’re moving with purpose and determination,” McPherson said. “This is a start.”

Foreign Affairs Minister and Moresby South MP Justin Tkatchenko, has outlined sweeping preparations ahead of the PNG Chiefs’ entry into the National Rugby League (NRL) in 2028, describing the move as a “steppingstone and pathway” for aspiring rugby league stars across the country.Speaking at a press conference today, Tkatchenko said the government, under the direction of Prime Minister James Marape, is taking firm action to ensure the capital is ready to host elite competition and international visitors. “We’re cleaning up the city with the assistance of our Governor, removing the undesirables those that cause law and order issues in our country will now be no more,” Tkatchenko said. “We are taking a hard step because we want our city to embrace this, the Chiefs embrace what we are being offered and show Port Moresby in a completely different light.” He said the preparations extend beyond infrastructure and public order, with a strong emphasis on grassroots development through junior rugby league programs to secure the long-term future of the sport. “This gives an amazing steppingstone and pathway for our Papua New Guineans now that they can be NRL stars going on from 2028,” he said. Tkatchenko also confirmed the introduction of a new special visa arrangement designed to facilitate travel between Papua New Guinea and Australia in the lead-up to the 2028 season. He thanked the Australian Government for announcing what he described as a “brand new visa — the NRL visa” — aimed at making travel more accessible and affordable for fans, players and officials. According to Tkatchenko, the visa will cost between $25 (K75.00) for a 12-month season ticket arrangement, allowing multiple entries and stays of up to 30 days per visit, though it does not permit employment. Importantly, he said players and administrators from both Australia and Papua New Guinea would receive equal treatment under the arrangement, with the same fees and conditions applying to both sides. “It opens up an amazing way and pathway for Australians and people from all around the world to come to Papua New Guinea and to go to Australia for the first time at such an affordable rate,” Tkatchenko said. “Having a multiple entry and stay gives a win-win situation to everybody and complements what we are doing for 2028.” The Foreign Affairs Minister described the visa initiative as “just one part of the big puzzle” aimed at ensuring the success of PNG’s NRL entry. He pledged that his department would work closely with the government and relevant authorities to ensure all arrangements are handled properly and deliver long-term benefits for the country. “We are here to fully support and work closely with the Government to ensure that everything is done properly and correctly for the long-term benefit of this fabulous program going forward,” he said. Papua New Guinea is set to become the first Pacific nation to field a team in the NRL competition, marking a historic milestone for a country where rugby league is widely regarded as the national sport.

The Mount Hagen School of Nursing is preparing to enroll between 40 and 50 students for its 2026 academic year, following strong interest from applicants across the country says the College Director, Mr. Gabriel Kewa.Mr. Kewa said the school has received more than 300 applications for its Diploma in General Nursing programme, highlighting the growing demand for tertiary education opportunities in the Highlands and beyond. “We have a lot of students applying. So far, we are looking at taking in around 40 to 50 students, depending on the infrastructure and accommodation we have available,” Mr. Kewa said. He added that the institution will operate as a fully boarding college, citing student safety and welfare as a key reason for the decision. Dormitories and classrooms have been developed over several years to ensure students can be accommodated within the school compound. “We are living in times where safety is a real concern, especially for our young women. Because of that, we have built dormitories and classrooms so students can live and study on campus,” he said. The school currently has two dormitories, one with 45 beds and another with 80 beds, which can comfortably support the planned intake. Mr. Kewa also provided an update on campus development works, saying that carpenters are currently carrying out minor finishing touches on school buildings. These include small geometry adjustments such as steps, ladders, and other ground-level improvements to ensure facilities are ready for the incoming students. The programme on offer is a three-year Diploma in General Nursing, with classes scheduled to commence in the third week of February 2026. However, Mr. Kewa confirmed that student registration has been delayed from the original schedule. “Initially, registration was set for 2nd to 13th February, but that has now changed,” he said.  “Registration will take place from 16th to 27th February 2026, and students are expected to come in during this period to complete their registration.” Tuition fees have been set at K10, 500 per year, which includes boarding, meals, and other essential services. Mr. Kewa noted that the Mount Hagen School of Nursing is the only institution in the area offering a diploma-level nursing qualification, while other colleges in the region focus on Community Health Worker (CHW) training. “This will be the only college running diploma-level nursing courses here in Mount Hagen,” he said. Applicants have come from provinces including Enga, Hela, Southern Highlands, Chimbu, and the Islands region. Mr. Kewa said the selection process is underway, with a minimum GPA requirement of 2.5. “We have screened all applications and issued evaluations to 87 candidates. From there, we will narrow it down to our final intake,” he said. The Mount Hagen School of Nursing is expected to finalize its intake list ahead of the start of the academic year.

Despite a blistering start and an early lead, the Vanuatu United FC battled uphill for much of the game today against a spirited Melbourne side.That advantage arrived just 57 seconds in when Luka Coveny’s under-hit pass back to goalkeeper Jake Charlston was seized upon by Alex Saniel, who finished first time to stun South Melbourne. The upcoming hosts responded well to the setback. Jordan Swibel went close to an equalizer, forcing Matt Acton into a sharp save from close range, before playing a key role moments later. Swibel’s shot struck the base of the post, and Lucas Inglese reacted quickest to turn in the rebound from close range. Vanuatu United’s fast start soon felt a distant memory when they were reduced to ten men shortly after conceding. Robea Haruel’s high challenge prompted a VAR review, and referee Cory Mills had little hesitation in producing a red card. South Melbourne capitalized on their numerical advantage just before half-time. Yuki Uchida won a corner, and the Japanese forward rose to head in at the near post deep into stoppage time. Any hopes of a second-half response were quickly dented when Vanuatu United were reduced to nine men. Kerry Iawak, already on a caution, was judged to have brought down Uchida on the edge of the area and was shown a second yellow card. The task grew tougher still when Mills awarded a penalty following a VAR check for handball. Swibel stepped up and confidently dispatched the spot kick to make it 3–1. To their credit, Vanuatu United refused to fold and were handed a lifeline when Saniel bundled the ball home from a corner, the ball deflecting in off his knee to reduce the deficit to one. There would be no dramatic comeback, however, inside the final ten minutes Acton failed to control the ball, and when it was returned into the six-yard box, Swibel was on hand to tap into an unguarded net. A fifth goal followed late in stoppage time, as Andrew Mesourouni curled a superb free kick into the top corner beyond the reach of the outstretched Acton. There was still time for one final dismissal, with William Cardona shown red seconds before full-time to cap a chaotic contest. The result sees South Melbourne FC consolidate second place, now just four points behind Auckland FC, while Vanuatu United head into Round 3 still searching for their first win.

Solomon Kings FC pulled off one of the biggest upsets of the OFC defeating previously unbeaten Auckland FC in a spirited performance built on resilience, tactical discipline and clinical finishing.The victory saw Solomon FC score three goals, a reward for recent strong performances that had not translated onto the scoreboard. Head coach Benjamin Cahn said the result reflected the team’s belief and growth within the competition.“Over the last couple of games the performances were there and the team was strong,” Cahn said. “Football is about scoring goals, and today we managed to do that.”The win came despite difficult circumstances in the lead-up to the match, with several players affected by illness, including a virus and food poisoning. Coach Cahn admitted there were serious doubts about the team’s readiness less than 24 hours before kick-off.“There was a moment last night where I thought we might have to leave a few boys out. But they looked me in the eye this morning and said they were ready. I couldn’t be prouder of them", he said.Facing the unbeaten Auckland FC side that had won all of its matches, Solomon FC entered the contest as underdogs.However, Cahn said his side controlled large portions of the game and fully deserved the result.“No one gave us a chance, but I think we were the better team for long periods,” he said. “These boys are special.”Cahn also highlighted the importance of the result for the competition as a whole.“It’s good for the league. Nobody wants to see one team win every game, and this shows it can be done,” he said.Solomon Kings captain and goalkeeper Philip Mango praised the collective effort of the squad, particularly their discipline in the face of a strong second-half push from Auckland FC.“Auckland is a very good and technical team, especially in finishing,” Mango said. “But the boys worked hard, stayed in position and stuck to the game plan.”Mango also thanked the team’s supporters back in the Solomon Islands, acknowledging their continued backing throughout the tournament.“Football has a big following back home, and we know the people are watching,” he said. “We’re proud to represent them.”Despite the celebrations, Cahn cautioned that the match took a physical toll, with one player hospitalised after pushing through illness and others carrying minor injuries. The team will now focus on recovery before travelling to Brisbane to prepare for the upcoming Melbourne round.Solomon FC’s victory hands Auckland FC their first defeat of the and reinforces the Islanders’ growing presence as a competitive force in the league.

Auckland FC secured a dramatic 2-0 victory over PNG Hekari FC, with both goals coming in during the 12 minutes of extra time to maintain their unbeaten start in Round 2 of the OFC Pro League.Captain Reid Drake, who was named player of the match, credited the team’s persistence and bench strength for turning the game around.“PNG Hekari were excellent and gave us some difficult moments, but I was really pleased with how positive our players were,” he said.“We had a really good impact on the bench, and I am proud the team was able to get a couple of goals in the middle of the week.”Drake highlighted the challenge of adapting to the Port Moresby heat after arriving from New Zealand just days earlier.“It is obviously very warm, and we are not used to playing week-in, week-out in this climate, but we have some experienced players who have been in PNG or the Solomons before.”“We passed that knowledge on, and the boys did a great job accepting the conditions and playing our way.”Meanwhile, Coach Luke Casserly echoed those sentiments, praising the team’s resilience. “Very hard fought,” Casserly expressed.“We knew it was going to be a challenging match in front of their home supporters.”“It is certainly a very good learning experience for our players, and I am delighted to get the points.”The team also drew motivation from a personal loss in the squad, with one player dedicating his goal to a late grandfather. “That’s the culture within the group,” Coach Casserly said. “We do this for everyone in the club - the players, staff, and family. We are all very proud.”Furthermore, Auckland FC now turn their attention to recovery and preparation for their remaining fixtures, with Casserly emphasizing nutrition, rest, and ice baths as part of the process.