“I don’t want to die. I want to live for my wife and my two sons. I want to raise them, and I want to give back. And now, because of all of you, I believe I can.” Those were the heartfelt words of Samuel Somne (33), a father, husband and tribesman, following a successful corporate fundraising dinner held on Saturday, July 12 at Airways Hotel, Port Moresby, which gave him a renewed chance at life. Diagnosed with a brain tumour, Samuel knew from the beginning that he was not only fighting for himself, but for his wife Florence and their two young sons. Now, with overwhelming support from his family, friends and fellow tribesmen from Injua Village, Nipa, in the Southern Highlands Province, Samuel is preparing to travel to India on July 25, 2025, for the urgent brain surgery he needs. The fundraiser brought together close friends, colleagues, in-laws and community members who gave generously and stood by him in unity. “I was holding on to this one hope,” Samuel told the crowd. “Seeing all of you here and with some giving from what little they have, that leaves me speechless.” At the heart of it all were his people, including fellow tribesman and master of ceremony for the night, Mr. Luke Mongolap, who spoke proudly of Samuel’s role in their community. “In our village, we do not have many educated men. There is only just a few and Samuel is one of them,” Luke said. “Even if it means spending our last to help him, we will. He is worth it.” The night’s guest speaker, Mr. Wapu Sonk, Managing Director of Kumul Petroleum Holdings Ltd, reminded the guests of the importance of helping people while they are still alive. “We must help people when they are alive, not when they are dead. This is the moment to show we care,” Mr. Sonk said. Samuel’s health issues began in 2021 when he started experiencing seizures in his sleep. By 2023, they worsened, and he began collapsing at work. A scan at Port Moresby General Hospital confirmed the presence of a tumour. He was advised to seek treatment overseas immediately. “Many of you I do not even know personally,” Samuel said. “But you gave. You believed in my life.” As he now prepares to leave the country, Samuel carries not just medical records and hope, but the strength and love of a community that rallied to keep him alive. His story is a reminder to all of us that we must not come together only in death, but when someone is still fighting to live.

The New Guinea Islands (NGI) Region was honored over the weekend at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium in Port Moresby city as thousands gathered to celebrate its historical role in shaping Papua New Guinea’s path to independence and nationhood. Hosted as part of PNG Story Month, the event is one of several regional celebrations leading to the country’s 50th Independence Anniversary on September 16th, 2025. NCD Governor Powes Parkop delivering the keynote address, reflected on how the New Guinea Islands through movements such as the Paliau Movement in Manus, the Mataungan Association in East New Britain, and Bougainville’s independence activism—played a defining role in the national conversation on identity, unity, and self-governance. “These efforts laid the foundation for our nation’s freedom,” Governor Parkop said. “We are the descendants and manifestation of that historic decision to unite over a thousand tribes and 860 languages into one country.” The Governor called on young Papua New Guineans to reflect on the lessons of the last 50 years and take ownership of shaping the future. “We can’t change the last 50 years, but we can shape the next 50,” he said. “That is your challenge and your opportunity.” The crowd, estimated at over 20,000 city residents, enjoyed a full-day program of cultural dances, traditional singings, string-band performances, and SME stalls showcasing food, art, and stories from Manus, Bougainville, New Ireland, and East and West New Britain provinces. In a symbolic conclusion to the event, student representatives from each NGI province at the University of Papua New Guinea presented traditional gifts to Governor Parkop, including shell money, mats, carvings, and island delicacies. Each one is a proud expression of identity and appreciation. Governor Parkop thanked the students, performers, and organizing team for bringing the regional story to life, adding: “Today, we are all New Guinea Islanders—because we are one people, one country, and one future.” As PNG Story Month continues through July, August, and September, the spotlight now shifts to the Highlands Region, which will be celebrated this Saturday, July 19.

A historic Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed on Wednesday, 9th July 2025 between Miss Bird of Paradise PNG (MBoP PNG), the West Sepik Provincial Administration, and the Vanimo Green River District Administration, marking the official launch of the Miss Bird of Paradise Sandaun Pageant. The agreement paves the way for a strategic collaboration aimed at elevating cultural identity, empowering young women, and positioning Sandaun Province as a vibrant hub for cultural tourism in celebration of Papua New Guinea’s 50th Independence Anniversary Golden Jubilee. The pageant will be coordinated by the Commerce and Tourism Division of the West Sepik Provincial Administration, led by Director Mr. Ian Tonte, in support of Mrs. Chrissilla Kabe Talis, the official MBoP Sandaun Pageant Organizer. Anna Bais, Founder and Chairlady of MBoP PNG, commended the momentum in Sandaun, stating: “The ecosystem of empowerment being built here across designers, artisans, dancers, performers, photographers, and videographers will be showcased to the rest of the country.” Deputy Provincial Administrator Mr. Albert Mutumap, who officiated the signing on behalf of the Acting Provincial Administrator, confirmed the full support of the West Sepik Provincial Administration, describing the initiative as a timely platform for unity, inclusion, and cultural pride. Echoing the enthusiasm, Mr. Kida Ambakua, District Administrator for Vanimo Green River, reaffirmed the district’s commitment, noting the pageant’s potential to promote tourism, inspire youth leadership, and boost regional visibility. The Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture, the Member for Vanimo Green River Electorate, and Patron of Miss Bird of Paradise, Belden Norman Namah, is a key champion of the program and has expressed unwavering support for the rollout of 22 Provincial Pageants. “Having 22 Provincial Culture and Tourism Ambassadors will be a powerful symbol of national identity and pride. Each young woman represents a story, a people, and a culture worthy of the world’s attention,” he said. The Miss MBoP Sandaun Pageant will be held in Vanimo from 25th to 31st August 2025. The crowned winner will go on to represent Sandaun Province at the National Miss Bird of Paradise PNG Pageant, alongside winners from all 22 provinces, each serving as a Culture and Tourism Ambassador for Papua New Guinea. The Sandaun Pageant is part of the VGRE 50th Anniversary Celebration Plan, which features four signature events: - Miss MBoP Sandaun Pageant – 25 to 31 August - VGRE Pikinini Culture Show- 12 to 14 September - VGRE Musical Festival – 15 September - Sandaun Selkambang Show – 16 September Together, these events create a meaningful platform to honor the nation’s Golden Jubilee by celebrating cultural diversity, empowering communities, and inspiring the next generation of leaders.

Five police officers were seriously injured in a nasty road accident at Barakau village along the Magi Highway in Central Province on Saturday and are now admitted to a hospital in Port Moresby for medical treatment. Central Provincial Police Commander (PPC) Chief Inspector Joseph Salle confirmed the five officers, all members of the Central Highway Patrol Unit, were conducting a routine patrol when the accident occurred at around 2PM. The collision involved a police Toyota Land Cruiser vehicle traveling from Port Moresby city towards Gaire and a 10-cubic dump truck belonging to Kana Construction Company heading in the opposite direction. Both vehicles were damaged in the crash. The driver of the dump truck reportedly fled the scene, while all five officers sustained serious injuries. “The dump truck is higher than the Toyota Land Cruiser, so the impact on the police vehicle was serious and affected the police officers. They were rushed to the hospital by St. John Ambulance. Police units from both NCD and Central Province responded, managing to identify eyewitnesses and take possession of the police officers' property. I want to thank the police units for their quick response,” PPC Salle said. Police traffic officers have launched an investigation and are now searching for the dump truck driver, who remains at large. PPC Salle urged the driver to surrender to the authorities immediately. He also extended gratitude to Commander NCD/Central Benjamin Turi and NCD Met. Supt. for their support in ensuring the injured officers received prompt medical attention. He then further thanked the people of Barakau village and members of the public who assisted during the emergency.

The first week of the PNG Resources Golden Exhibition, themed "Building PNG for 50 Years," wrapped up yesterday, Saturday, July 12, at APEC Haus in Port Moresby after six days of vibrant activity, corporate showcases, and school participation. Held from July 7 to 12, the event brought together leading resource companies and students from across the capital, creating opportunities to explore Papua New Guinea’s industrial development, innovation, and career pathways. While the official theme guiding this year’s exhibition is “Unlocking Opportunity Through Partnership,” this first week placed strong emphasis on building industry-education connections as PNG marks 50 years of independence. During the first week, students from seven Port Moresby schools toured interactive booths, observed historical displays, participated in career‑talks, and engaged with industry experts. They explored energy, mining innovations, STEM exhibits, and networked with company representatives to learn about career pathways in PNG’s resource sector. Participating schools included Don Bosco Technical School, Gordons Secondary School, Tokarara Secondary School, Koiari Park Adventist Secondary school, Port Moresby National High School, Jubilee Catholic Secondary school, and De La Salle Secondary School. Although numerous mining, engineering, safety, and logistics companies were present, these are a couple during Week One. XCMG, one of the world’s largest construction machinery manufacturers, featured prominently. Founded in 1943 in China, the company has established strong operational footprints in Lae, Port Moresby, Mount Hagen, and Tabubil. “Our presence in PNG is focused on helping build a better nation,” said XCMG exhibition spokesperson Celestine Kabilu. “From bridges to roads, we are committed to supporting infrastructure and empowering local capacity through training and partnerships.” Pacific Safety Limited, trading under the brand PNG Embroidery, also attracted attention with its display of industrial safety wear, corporate uniforms, and custom apparel tailored for PNG’s mining and construction industries. The company has grown steadily over the past decade to become a trusted name in the industry. “We are proud to supply garments that protect the hardworking people of PNG’s mining and industrial sectors,” said a PNG Embroidery sales representative. “Safety, durability, and quality define everything we produce.” Santos, one of PNG’s key energy developers, used the exhibition to reflect its long-standing presence in the country. Founded in 1954 in Australia, Santos has expanded its footprint throughout the region, including significant investment in PNG’s oil and gas sector. During Week One, Santos focused on presenting its corporate history and achievements in PNG. The company will use Week Three of the exhibition to unveil its community initiatives, educational support programs, and environmental sustainability efforts. The exhibition continues into Week Two, with a new group of schools scheduled to attend and further corporate presentations planned. Organizers have stated that the goal is to educate, inspire, and connect young Papua New Guineans with the industries shaping the country’s future.

In a powerful show of youth, identity, and national pride, students from the University of Papua New Guinea opened New Guinea Islands Day at Sir Hubert Murray Stadium in Port Moresby city, leading float parades and cultural showcases that launched the region’s contribution to PNG Story Month. Draped in traditional attire from Manus, Bougainville, New Ireland, and East and West New Britain, the students brought colour and purpose to the day’s celebration by setting the stage for a historic and emotional program commemorating 50 years of Papua New Guinea’s independence. NCD Governor Powes Parkop in delivering the keynote speech, praised the energy of the youth and reflected on the rich cultural roots of the New Guinea Islands. “Our people have existed on these islands since time immemorial, from the western part of Manus to Motlock and Buin. We are ancient people with ancient culture, and our story must be told, amplified, and celebrated,” he said. Parkop highlighted the role New Guinea Islands leaders played in the lead-up to independence in 1975, describing their contribution as “defining and critical” to PNG’s national identity. “As we approach our Golden Jubilee in just nine weeks, we must understand and celebrate the road that brought us here so that we can shape the road ahead.” He called on young Papua New Guineans to reflect on what story they will be telling in the next 50 years. “What lessons will you learn from the last 50 years? How will you redefine and recreate our nation for your children, your families, and your future?” The Governor also reminded the nation of the peaceful nature of PNG’s independence—a rarity in the global context. “We did not fight a war for our freedom. We gained it peacefully. That is a powerful legacy we must honor.” The event, running throughout the day, features cultural performances, string band music, local SME stalls, and traditional food, all highlighting the diversity and unity of the New Guinea Islands region. Governor Parkop thanked the UPNG students, cultural groups, and the event team who have worked since May delivering the Pacific, Asian, and Australian stories leading into the PNG Story Month finale. “Today, we are all New Guinea Islanders, because we are one nation, one people, on one journey together.”

Over 100 students from Divine Word University (DWU) took part in a major town clean-up this morning, Saturday, the 12th of July 2025, as part of a community service initiative organised by the DWU Student Representative Council (SRC) through its Pageant and Community Service Committee. SRC President McKoi Malt said the clean-up was part of efforts to promote and support the upcoming DWU Pageant Show, which will be held later this year. Malt told PNG HAUSBUNG that “The clean-up was organised by the SRC Pageant and Community Service Committee, with full support from the SRC executives.” He said students gathered at the Student Services car park around 7:00 AM before being transported to the Water Board area. From there, they were divided into smaller groups and assigned to clean different locations, including the fish market, the main market, and roads leading to Brian Bell, parts of Kalibobo Oval, and areas near the Water Board. Malt said, “The SRC and Student Services provided gloves, rakes, and garbage bags, and arranged two fleets of vehicles for rubbish collection and disposal.” He also mentioned that during the clean-up, students came across officers from the Madang Police and the Community Policing Unit (CPU), who were also cleaning parts of the town. “Although the initiative of the police and CPU was separate, both groups collaborated on the day to clean the area,” Malt said. He confirmed that the activity ran from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, beginning at the Water Board and ending near the fish market and Memorial Lutheran Church. SRC Vice Female President Tess Duri also spoke about the Cleanathon, explaining that it is an initiative designed to engage students in promoting the values of community engagement, respect, and learning for life. Duri stated, “The Cleanathon is formulated to engage students of Divine Word University to promote and demonstrate the values such as community engagement, respect, and learning for life.” She added, “In this Cleanathon, we also aimed to have students interact with locals and provide students the understanding and need of promoting a clean environment externally, where the students can step out of the boundaries of the university to experience doing something for the community, which is not frequently done.” According to Duri, the Cleanathon is usually organised annually by the SRC to promote volunteering among students and to build character. “It is usual that the SRC of the University conducts a school Cleanathon as an activity that not only promotes a clean environment but to help students to develop the character of active volunteering,” she said. She explained that Madang Town was chosen for the clean-up because it is where many people, including students, access goods and services. Duri said, “In Madang Town, this is where most of the people travel to make incomes and provide basic services, and for the students, this is where we come to shop, to make transactions, and to have access to services.” “We encourage students to participate as this shows our pride in having to share a place of common interest,” she added. She also pointed out that the Cleanathon was the first for the year and was organised as a lead-up to the Pageant Night. “This Cleanathon is the first of the year 2025, and because it encouraged teamwork among the students and demonstrated unity among the student body. "It also helps students to develop civic responsibility." She said the activity fulfilled two of the Pageant’s objectives: “Encouraging Involvement and Cooperation among the students, staff, and DWU community,” and “Providing an opportunity for networking and connections.” Duri described the Cleanathon as a success. “There were more students who showed up than anticipated, meaning there were three rounds of drop-offs by three separate vehicles." "We covered more ground due to the large number, and there was an overwhelming sense of participation and commitment." “Students were excited to do something for the community and picked rubbish, raked and packed them away in garbage bags enthusiastically."

Port Moresby and Long Beach City in California have officially signed a historic Sister City Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), marking a new chapter of cultural, educational, and community exchange between Papua New Guinea and the United States of America (USA). The signing ceremony was held at City Hall and was attended by key dignitaries including Chair-Elect of Sister Cities International Mr. Carlo Capua, Chargé d’Affaires of the US Embassy Mr. Andy Covington, NCD Governor Powes Parkop, Port Moresby City Manager Mr. Ravu Frank, and Director of Community Engagement for the City of Long Beach Mr. Jeff Williams. Governor Powes Parkop said the agreement was a significant milestone in Port Moresby’s efforts to connect globally and foster people-to-people partnerships. “Port Moresby has benefitted immensely from sister city ties in the past, and without a doubt, we will benefit in a big way through this association with Long Beach City,” Parkop said. “This relationship will promote cultural understanding, educational enrichment, community engagement and peace, all essential components of development.” Governor Parkop noted that despite the challenges of urbanization, the city remains committed to learning from more established cities like Long Beach, especially in areas such as disaster resilience, city planning, and inclusive development. Mr. Capua described the event as the culmination of years of groundwork and said the agreement symbolized “destiny” rather than coincidence. “Sister Cities International was founded by US President Dwight D. Eisenhower after World War II to promote peace through friendship. Today, Port Moresby and Long Beach became part of that mission,” Capua said. “This moment has been in the making for years which from my first visit to Papua New Guinea in 2001, to recent discoveries like the WWII plane wreck in Madang, it all led us here.” Mr. Andy Covington said the Sister Cities agreement reflects the strength of grassroots diplomacy. “Some of the most enduring diplomacy happens not in government halls but through everyday people — students, artists, community leaders. This agreement is not symbolic, it’s real and lasting,” Covington said. Also in attendance was a delegation from Poplar, Wisconsin, who signed a similar Sister City agreement with Madang earlier this week. The agreements come as Papua New Guinea and the United States celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations and approach PNG’s 50th independence anniversary in September. Mr. Jeff Williams said Long Beach and Port Moresby shared many similarities as port cities with diverse communities and emerging tourism industries. “Every event this week has been a reminder of how connected our cities are. We are excited to grow this partnership,” Williams said. As the ceremony concluded, Governor Parkop extended an invitation to the delegation to attend PNG’s Independence celebrations in September, promising a vibrant showcase of the country’s more than 800 cultures. “We are the gateway to all of Papua New Guinea. This is only the beginning,” Parkop concluded.

Papua New Guinea’s national men’s cricket squad sharpened their competitive edge yesterday 10th July 2025 in a crucial 50-over trial match held at Amini Park in Port Moresby city. The session was part of the final evaluation phase for the Barramundis Train-On Squad, ahead of two major international tournaments: 50-over ODI tournament in Jersey, United Kingdom this August ICC T20 World Cup Qualifiers in Muscat, Oman. The match brought together 25 top players under the national selection radar. The squad will soon be narrowed to 20 contracted athletes, and from there, the final 14 will be chosen to represent PNG on the global stage. “This trial match was particularly compelling,” said Mr. Hudson Api Leka, Chairman of the Cricket PNG National Selection Panel. “New and vibrant players displayed gutsy performances, challenging the established names and proving that every position in the squad is hotly contested.” The past two months of intense training have seen seasoned Barramundis and fresh talents push each other to peak form. According to Mr. Leka, this internal competition is essential for team growth and international success. “This healthy competition is exactly what we want,” he said. “It keeps players on their toes and ensures that only the best earn the right to wear our national colours.” Since gaining ODI status in 2014 and appearing at their first ICC T20 World Cup in 2021, Papua New Guinea has steadily grown its presence on the world cricket stage. The current squad aims not only to qualify for upcoming tournaments but also to build a long-term elite core for future competitions. “The final 14 will not only represent our country but will also form the core group that we will continue to develop,” Mr. Leka said. “With the talent, determination and fighting spirit displayed yesterday, I am confident we will assemble a formidable team that will make our nation proud.” The announcement of the contracted 20-player squad is expected in the coming weeks, followed by the final 14-player lineup who will carry the red, black and gold to international grounds once more.

Two young leaders from Papua New Guinea’s Special Olympics program have returned from a regional leadership training in Singapore, equipped with fresh knowledge and determination to promote inclusion and challenge the stigma faced by persons with intellectual disabilities. Japheth Narrey and Eunice Wanjumoe, accompanied by mentor Jenny Luff, completed a three-day leadership and advocacy training organized by Special Olympics Asia Pacific. As members of the Regional Athlete Leadership Council (RALC) and the Regional Youth Leadership Council (RYLC), the trio represented Special Olympics PNG (SOPNG) at the international workshop. Special Olympics is a global movement that uses sport, leadership, and health programs to empower individuals with intellectual disabilities. Active in over 190 countries, including PNG since 2010, it works to break down social barriers and create inclusive communities. Narrey, who lives with an intellectual disability, spoke candidly about the challenges he faced growing up in a school environment that did not understand or support him. “I was teased and bullied a lot in school because of my condition so I left school and joined Special Olympics PNG,” he said. “Leaving school affected my learning. I tried my best and now I can read, but I still struggle with writing. But I’m not giving up. I’m still trying.” The training focused on building the leadership capacity of youth with and without intellectual disabilities, giving them tools to become advocates and role models in their communities. Narrey shared that he now feels more confident in speaking out and hopes to raise awareness on the rights and dignity of people like him. Wanjumoe, a youth without intellectual disability, emphasized the importance of what Special Olympics calls “Unified Leadership.” “Unified leadership is about creating spaces where everyone, regardless of ability, is accepted and empowered to lead together,” said Wanjumoe. “This approach can break down barriers and ensure equal access to basic services such as education, health care, employment, and social participation. “As a youth without intellectual disability, I am passionate about working alongside Japheth to amplify the voices of those with ID, making sure they are seen, heard, and valued in our society.” Mentor Jenny Luff echoed their commitment, saying that the training strengthened their vision for inclusion in Papua New Guinea. “We will continue our work under SOPNG by organizing events and sports programs to promote inclusion and acceptance in communities across PNG,” she said. “Don’t be quick to judge someone just because their abilities do not meet your expectations. Show empathy and respect to everyone, whether you know them or not.” The Special Olympics leadership model encourages diversity and peer-to-peer collaboration, helping create a more inclusive future led by the youth of today.

Port Moresby Nature Park has made history as home to the 17,000th species photographed for the world-renowned National Geographic Photo Ark project — Papua New Guinea’s own Raggiana bird-of-paradise. National Geographic explorer and photographer Joel Sartore visited the Nature Park in April as part of his mission to document 25,000 animals in human care to promote biodiversity awareness and inspire global conservation. “Birds-of-paradise are living works of art,” said Sartore. “We preserve art in museums. These species deserve the same level of protection.” The announcement coincides with Papua New Guinea’s 50th year of independence, making the national bird’s selection even more symbolic. The milestone image has already reached an audience of more than 500 million via National Geographic’s media platforms and Sartore’s own global channels. Johnpaul Houston, CEO of Port Moresby Nature Park, said the team was honored to host Sartore. “To have our kumul recognized as the 17,000th species is a proud moment for PNG and the Nature Park. We look forward to sharing these images with our visitors soon.” The Photo Ark project emphasizes the urgent need to protect species facing environmental and human-driven threats. Its milestone moment in PNG underscores the country’s vital role in preserving the world’s natural heritage. More information and the full story are available at joelsartore.com.

Queensland Maroons captain Cameron Munster delivered one of the most emotionally charged performances in State of Origin history last night, leading his side to a series victory just days after the passing of his father. After going down one game to nil to the New South Wales Blues in Game One in Brisbane, the odds were firmly stacked against the Maroons. The Blues featured a powerful halves pairing in four-time NRL premiership-winning halfback Nathan Cleary and 2024 Origin-winning halfback Mitchell Moses, widely regarded as two of the best in the game today. In a bold move, Queensland coach Billy Slater made a significant leadership change following the Game One defeat, replacing veteran captain Daly Cherry-Evans with Munster. The decision was based on Munster’s proven Origin pedigree, including being named Player of the Series in 2020 and Man of the Match in Game One of 2022, along with his strong working relationship with Slater through 16 Origin appearances. Heading into Game Two in Perth, Queensland unveiled a new halves combination, with Munster partnering rising star Tom Dearden. Although Mitchell Moses was sidelined with a knee injury, New South Wales still fielded a strong spine including Jarome Luai and the returning Cleary. Queensland responded with grit. While they scored one try fewer than New South Wales, Valentine Holmes' accurate goal-kicking proved decisive, securing a narrow two-point victory to keep the series alive. Before the decider, Queensland suffered another setback. Fullback Kalyn Ponga was ruled out with injury, prompting Slater to shift Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, also known as The Hammer, to fullback and hand a debut to Brisbane Broncos centre Gehamat Shibasaki. Veteran forward Josh Papali’i also returned to the side, riding strong form as the Canberra Raiders sat at the top of the NRL ladder. Tragically, just days before Game Three, Munster’s father passed away. The news shocked the NRL community. Slater initially released Munster from the squad, but on Sunday morning, Munster sat with his coach and told him quietly, “I’m playing.” At the post-match press conference, an emotional Slater, who also lost his father in January, reflected on that moment. “I knew his father would have wanted him to play, so I had to let him,” Slater said. “Over my four years as coach, this is my proudest moment. The bloke on my left is the most courageous and bravest man to captain this special squad. I do not know how he did it.” The Maroons turned the game into a tribute. Their first half was clinical. Queensland completed sets with precision, made fewer errors, and built a twenty-point lead by halftime. It was a stunning and dominant performance. In the second half, the Maroons sustained pressure, particularly on the left edge that had been exposed in Game Two. Valentine Holmes and Murray Taulagi kept Latrell Mitchell and Brian To’o in check. Tom Dearden even saved a certain try from To’o, adding to his standout night. The Blues crossed for a late try, but it was not enough. Dearden went over for his second try, sealing the Maroons' emotional series win. As the full-time siren sounded, Munster and Slater embraced in a tearful captain and coach moment, embodying the spirit and resilience of their side. At the press conference, Munster held back tears as he thanked the wider rugby league community. “I am thankful to the NRL community for your support, to Billy and the Queensland coaching staff, and to my brothers who stood with me.” He concluded by dedicating the victory to teammate Josh Papali’i. “This one is also for Papa. It is his last year in the comp. We got this one for him too.”