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.

Vanuatu United FC head coach Lars Hopp, has admitted frustration after his side was forced to settle for a draw against Tahiti United, saying his team “should have taken three points” from what he felt was a winnable match.Hopp said, “It was a hard-fought game. Both sides went to the very end.”“We had enough chances to win, though they also had a few.”“The overall feeling is that we had more to give.”“Despite, I am happy the boys earned something today after losing points twice in similar situations.”The match was played under challenging midday heat at the Santos National Football Stadium (NFS) in Port Moresby, but Hopp praised both teams for handling the conditions well.He said, “It is a beautiful stadium, and it is hot this time of day, so credit to all players for pushing themselves.”“That is why we talk about this being a squad tournament as everyone needs to be ready, including those on the bench, because games can be decided late.”Looking ahead to their upcoming clash against PNG Hekari FC, Hopp said recovery was his main priority before tactical preparations begin.“Some of the boys are already in the ice baths.”“Then it will be about analysing both this match and the next opponent.”Hopp, who has coached in Europe, described the competition’s standard as roughly comparable to Germany’s third or fourth tier, although adapted to the demanding regional environment.“It is a fantastic tournament and is also only the first year, but you really feel that we’re all building something together.”The coach credited his squad’s fitness for their strong second-half performance.“A lot of matches are decided in the final minutes,” he explained.“We plan our games so we get stronger, not weaker, towards the end.”When asked about refereeing and the new use of VAR technology in the region, Hopp called it a “learning process” for all involved.“It is the first time VAR has been used for club football here.”“Some decisions were tough, but it is about improving communication between referees, coaches, and organizers.”“That is how the game grows.”Upon reflecting on Papua New Guinea’s tropical climate, Hopp said both local and foreign players are coping and adapting well.“Our overseas players trained in Vanuatu, so they’re used to the heat now.”“Good fitness, hydration, and preparation are key.”“The local players already showed their strength during the MSG Cup, so it all comes down to hard work.”

PNG Hekari FC coach Marcos Gusmao has praised his side’s fighting spirit despite suffering another late defeat, this time going down narrowly to league leaders Auckland FC in a hard-fought OFC Pro League encounter.Hekari were minutes away from securing a valuable point before conceding late in the match, continuing a frustrating trend of last-minute setbacks.After the match, Gusmao said, “I think we worked really hard during the week. We knew Auckland FC are a strong team, but we came here with a good spirit and a mindset to fight until the final whistle.”“Unfortunately, we were unlucky again and lost in the last few minutes.”Asked about the refereeing, Gusmao took a measured stance, acknowledging some questionable decisions while stressing the need to move forward.“This is football. The final decisions are made by the referees.”“Some calls, I think, can improve, but that is their job. We just need to focus on doing our job as a team.”Hekari made several changes to their starting line-up, including the return of experienced midfielder Raymond Gunemba, who had been rested during the team’s campaign in New Zealand.Gusmao explained, “We made some slight changes. Raymond is one of our experienced players, and we brought him in to help lead the boys.”“That’s football, sometimes you change, sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t.”Despite the loss, Gusmao highlighted positives from his squad’s performance, while admitting concentration and fitness remain areas of concern.“The boys played well, but there was a lack of concentration in the final moments.”“When you play against a good team that has been together for a long time, one chance is enough.”“We need to improve our fitness and our organization, especially against strong opponents.”At half-time, Gusmao’s message to the players was clear.“Keep going, keep pushing, keep going forward.”“We tried to get at least one goal, but it didn’t happen. That’s football.”Meanwhile, the coach also addressed a VAR incident involving Rex, where an initial red card was downgraded to a yellow after review.“The referee gave the red card, then reviewed it and decided it wasn’t that serious,” Gusmao said. “That decision was made after the reference.”Late substitutions were made in injury time as Hekari pushed for an equaliser, a move Gusmao said was planned.“We needed speed up front.”“Our strikers were tired, so we brought on young players to add pace and try to create one chance.” “It is also an opportunity for the young boys to show they want to play.”Looking ahead, Hekari will face Vanuatu United in a mid-week fixture, with Gusmao expecting another tough contest.“It does not stop,” he said.“Vanuatu are also fighting for points, just like us.”“We need to go back, organise ourselves, and work hard — especially on our finishing.”“If we can improve that, hopefully we will do our best.”Hekari return to training immediately as they prepare for Tuesday’s clash against Vanuatu in the OFC Pro League.

Vanuatu United FC and Tahiti United kicked off Round 2 of the OFC Pro League which is now underway at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby, with both sides putting on an entertaining contest despite the intense heat, ending the game with a draw at full time.Both teams struggled to settle early, with the opening stages scrappy and lacking fluency. Tahiti enjoyed more possession and created several chances across both halves, while Vanuatu looked more dangerous when breaking forward and carved out the clearer scoring opportunities. Tahiti were first to find the net in the 27th minute through Germain Haewegene. After Vanuatu failed to properly clear a corner, the ball was played through and Haewegene finished confidently past goalkeeper Matt Acton. Vanuatu responded eleven minutes later when Alex Saniel was fouled inside the penalty area. Following a brief VAR check, a spot kick was awarded and Owen Smith calmly converted in the 38th minute to send the teams into the break level at 1-1. The second half opened at a much quicker pace, with both sides pushing for the lead. Tahiti captain Teaonui Tehau put his team back in front in the 56th minute, ghosting through the Vanuatu defence before slotting home. However, the advantage lasted just two minutes. In the 58th minute, William Cardona capitalized on a goalkeeping error, guiding his effort into the top corner to bring Vanuatu level once again. As the match progressed, the tempo slowed under the heat and humidity, and neither side could find a decisive goal. The match ended with both teams settling for a point as Round 2 got underway.

Young Papua New Guinean footballer Raymond Diho, says playing in the OFC Pro League has been a valuable learning experience as he continues to grow in a professional football environment.Raymond, who currently plays for a Vanuatu-based club in the OFC Pro League, is a versatile defender capable of playing at right back, centre back, and as a defensive midfielder. Reflecting on Round One of the competitions, Raymond told PNG HAUSBUNG that the experience of playing alongside more seasoned professionals was both challenging and rewarding. “It was a good experience playing with boys who have more experience in a professional environment.” “I was able to learn from them and gain knowledge that I can bring into Round Two, especially now that we are playing in my home country.” As one of the youngest players in the Pro League, Raymond said being selected meant a great deal to him and motivated him to contribute positively to the team. “It means a lot to me playing as one of the youngest in the group. I am really happy to be called up, and I am also hoping to bring my skills to help the team as much as I can.” Raymond also acknowledged the pressure that comes with competing at a professional level but said he is managing it well. “There is a lot of pressure as a young footballer in a professional environment, but I think I am handling it pretty well.” The young defender’s football journey began early, earning his first call-up to the PNG national team at just 17 years old. He described the selection as a proud moment in his career. “It was my first call-up to the PNG international team, and I was really happy about that.” Raymond explained that his move from playing locally in PNG to joining a club in Vanuatu came after being approached by a former coach in December last year. “It was different, but a good transition. I went to Vanuatu because they reached out to me and gave me the opportunity.” Despite representing a club outside PNG, Raymond said his national identity remains strong. “It’s an honour representing a club in another country, but I still have that PNG pride in me, and that will never change.” Looking ahead, Raymond said his personal goal is to win the Pro League title and continue competing at a high level in the coming seasons. He also sees the OFC Pro League as a steppingstone toward greater opportunities internationally and encouraged young Papua New Guineans to chase their dreams. “If you are young and you love the game, fight for your dreams and keep pushing. You will achieve it if you believe in yourself,” he concluded.