South Island FC’s Ollie Van Rijssel, has declared his side prepared and eager as the Pro League moves into Round Two in Port Moresby.Speaking after returning to Papua New Guinea where he last played during the FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Rijssel said competing in Port Moresby is always demanding, but the squad is prepared for the challenge. “It’s good to be back. Playing here is always a challenge, but the boys are ready and looking forward to a good Round Two,” he said, adding that favorable weather conditions would help the team’s performance. Rijssel described South Island FC’s experience in the Pro League so far as positive, highlighting the youthful makeup of the squad. “We have a young team, but you can see that we play good football.” “The boys are energetic, and I think Round Two will be a good one for us.” Addressing off-field issues, Rijssel stressed that the team remains focused solely on football. “At the end of the day, whatever the outcome is, we just need to follow it.” “For us, it is about focusing on football, sticking to the game plan, and playing our game.” Looking ahead to their match against Solomon Kings, Rijssel acknowledged the quality of the opposition, noting that many of their players are familiar through national team duties. “They are a good side, but we will focus on ourselves and what we need to do on the field to get the result.” Moreover, he has called on supporters in Port Moresby and back home to continue backing the team. “To our supporters here, please come out in numbers and support us. We need the 12th man.” “And to those back home, please keep us in your prayers.”

OFC Pro League’s first-ever goal scorer, Alex Saniel of Vanuatu United FC, says his team is ready and motivated heading into the next round of matches, despite a challenging start to the competition. Vanuatu United recorded two losses and one draw in Round 1 of the OFC Pro League, which was held in Auckland, New Zealand. Saniel said the experience gained during the opening round has helped the team improve, particularly with its pool of young local talent competing at a professional level. “We have many young players in the squad, and playing the first round in Auckland gave us valuable experience to build on for this round,” he said. Saniel also reflected on the historic moment of scoring the league’s first-ever goal, describing it as an unforgettable achievement. “I felt so happy to score as the first man to score the first-ever goal in the professional league in the Oceania region. I am also looking forward to scoring more goals this round.” Upon arrival at Jacksons International Airport yesterday afternoon, Vanuatu United FC received a warm welcome from the local Vanuatu community, a gesture Saniel said meant a great deal to the team. “Thank you so much for the support. Every time we come to PNG, we are always backed by the community here, and thank you very much,” he said. Vanuatu United FC is set to face Tahiti United this Saturday at the Santos National Football Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 11:30 a.m. Saniel has called on fans and members of the local Vanuatu community to come out in numbers and support the team with pride.

Bula FC and Vanuatu United FC arrived in Port Moresby this afternoon ahead of their matches this weekend in R2 of the OFC Pro League fixtures at the Santos National Football Stadium. Bula FC captain Roy Krishna who scored Bula FC's first-ever goal in Round 1 of the OFC Pro League, said the Fijian side is looking forward to getting started in Round 2 in Port Moresby as they go up against Solomon Kings FC this Sunday. He said, “The boys are ready and looking forward to a good round 2.” Speaking after returning to the country following the FIFA World Cup qualifiers, Krishna said it was good to be back, despite the challenges of playing in Papua New Guinea. He noted that the team is well prepared and hopeful for good weather conditions during the upcoming matches. Krishna described Bula FC’s Pro League experience so far as positive, highlighting the energy and confidence of the squad. He said the team may be young, but the players have shown maturity and experience in the way they play football. “The experience has been good. We have a young squad, and you can see we play football although we are young and we have the experience.” The Bula FC skipper also emphasized that the team remains focused on football, choosing not to be distracted by off-field matters. He said the players are committed to following their game plan and giving their best performance on the field. Looking ahead to their clash against Solomon Kings, Krishna acknowledged the strength of the opposition, noting that many of their players are familiar from the national team setup. However, he stressed that Bula FC’s focus will be on their own performance to achieve a positive result. Krishna also called on supporters in Port Moresby to come out in large numbers, describing fans as the team’s “12th man.” He thanked supporters back home and asked them to continue keeping the team in their prayers as they compete in the Pro League.

Auckland FC arrived this afternoon in Port Moresby city ahead of the OFC Pro League match this weekend, and it looks like defender Michael Heijer is taking on the captain’s role after regular skipper Taz, was ruled out with a hamstring injury. Heijer confirmed he will lead the side when Auckland FC face PNG Hekari United FC on Saturday, as the club looks to continue its strong start to the competition. Auckland FC sits at the top of the table after an impressive opening round, recording three wins from three matches to collect nine points. Heijer described the opening to the season as an exciting one, especially after kicking off the campaign at home in Auckland, New Zealand. “We’re very happy with the three wins and being top of the table. It’s a great place to start,” Heijer said. Looking ahead to the upcoming fixture, Heijer expects a challenging contest, noting that Papua New Guinea will be an unfamiliar territory for several players in the squad. “We know it’s going to be very tough,” he said. “The conditions won’t be easy for us, but we’re up for the challenge and excited. We’re expecting a big crowd as well.” Despite Auckland FC being labelled by some as favorites due to the club’s history and squad depth, Heijer played down expectations, stressing that the team is young and that no match can be taken lightly. “Every team in this competition is difficult,” he said. “We’ve already had tough moments in our games, so we’re not taking anything for granted.” Heijer also thanked supporters back in Auckland for their continued backing and expressed excitement about experiencing football in Papua New Guinea for the first time. He added that the introduction of the OFC professional competition represents a significant step forward for football in the region, creating new opportunities for players and fans alike. Saturday’s match is expected to attract a large crowd as Auckland FC begin their campaign in Papua New Guinea.

Motorists in Port Moresby city can now commute through the 2 Mile Hill area but are advised to exercise caution after police conducted roadblocks at Murray Barracks and Badili to ensure the safety of both pedestrians and motorists.Following the incident that led to the eviction of settlers at 2 Mile Hill, Badili Police Station Commander, Chief Sergeant Abel Andrew, recounted the events that triggered the current situation in the area. He told PNG HAUSBUNG that this was not the first-time settlers from the area had come onto the road to attack civilians or police officers. “Every day and every week they come up to the road and do these things,” Chief Sergeant Andrew said. “In that incident, they held up a soldier at SVS, who reported the matter to police. When officers attempted to apprehend the suspects on Saturday, they retaliated.” Chief Sergeant Andrew clarified that the officers involved at the time were not from Badili Police Station, but from a different unit within the National Capital District who had gone in to assist. “They attacked the police by firing shots at them, and this was a different unit, not Badili officers,” he said. He further revealed that the group later went to the Badili Police Station and attacked four officers who were on duty. “They literally went into the station and there were more than a hundred of them. They outnumbered the four officers at the scene,” Chief Sergeant Andrew said. Fortunately, he said armed officers from the single barracks located behind the Badili Police Station responded and assisted their counterparts. “During the commotion, some officers were injured. Stones were thrown, and one officer was hit on the forehead,” he said. Meanwhile, police are urging commuters to take necessary precautions when travelling through the 2 Mile Hill area.

Motorists in Port Moresby city can now commute through the 2 Mile Hill area after police conducted roadblocks at Murray Barracks and Badili to ensure the safety of commuters, both pedestrians and motorists.The operation follows the incident over the weekend in which a group of men allegedly fired gunshots at a police unit before fleeing into the 2 Mile Hill settlement during the night. An eviction exercise was subsequently carried out by police yesterday that saw homes and properties destroyed. Speaking to PNG HAUSBUNG, a police officer on the ground said that all official information and updates regarding the situation will be provided by the Badili Police Station Commander (PSC) during a briefing scheduled for the afternoon. Meanwhile, the road from Murray Barracks through 2 Mile Hill to Badili has been cleared and is currently quiet. However, members of the public are advised to exercise caution when commuting through the area.

Education leaders are raising concerns over Papua New Guinea’s capacity to absorb the growing number of Grade 12 school leavers into tertiary institutions, warning of serious social consequences if the issue is not urgently addressed.College Director of the Mount Hagen School of Nursing, Mr. Gabriel Kewa, said between 25,000 and 32,000 student’s complete secondary education across the country each year, yet opportunities for further training and higher education remain limited. Mr. Kewa said many school leavers are left without pathways into employment or skills training, increasing the risk of frustration and social instability. “This is a challenge for the government and all stakeholders. We are sitting on a time bomb if we do not create more opportunities for training and education,” he said. He called on policymakers, politicians, and education authorities to prioritize investment in tertiary institutions, particularly in regions with high youth populations and limited access to training facilities. Mr. Kewa made the comments as the Mount Hagen School of Nursing prepares to finalize its student intake for the upcoming academic year. The institution has received strong interest from applicants nationwide, reflecting the demand for professional training opportunities. He said expanding access to education and skills training is critical to maintaining social stability and supporting long-term national development. The Mount Hagen School of Nursing is expected to begin classes later this month.

SP PNG Hunters player Joel Gena admits that adapting to the fast pace and high skill level of top-tier rugby league has been one of his greatest challenges but believes the experience has helped him grow as a player.“At first it was hard,” Gena said. “Coming into the SP Hunters was very different.” “Compared to the Digicel ExxonMobil (DEM) Cup, the DEM Cup was a bit slower, but Hunters was fast and required a lot of technique and skill.” “Those first few weeks were tough, but I’ve adapted as the season progressed.” Gena, known for his skill and versatility in the halves, began his rugby league journey at a young age while attending Pomona Primary School, where he played schoolboys rugby from Grade 3 before progressing to off-season competitions with Pomona Rugby League. His club career took a significant step forward in 2019 when he joined Tarangau, debuting in the under-20s competition. After playing five games, he was promoted to A Grade under then-coach Humphrey Begara. “He saw potential in me and gave me the opportunity to play A Grade and that really helped my development.” In 2020, Gena was selected into the Port Moresby Vipers. Although sidelined by a wrist injury in 2021, he returned stronger and made his Vipers debut in 2022 after being taken on as an academy player in 2021. That same year, he celebrated success winning the Southern Super League Grand Final. Gena continued to feature in the under-By-Pass squad during the 2023 and 2024 seasons before earning further opportunities in 2025, including selection for Antas in the Grand Final. Looking ahead, Gena has clear goals for his rugby league career. “My number one goal is to learn as much as I can.” “My second goal is to make the final cut for 2026, and my third goal is to secure a spot in the best 17.” “If I am given the chance to play, I will do my best to make my team, my province and my country proud.” The young playmaker credits senior teammates Jamie Mavoko and Jos Mire for helping him develop his game. “I have learned a lot from them,” Gena said. “They have been around the system for a long time.” “I talk to them whenever I have ideas or questions. Jos especially helps me with kicking, short-side and long-side play, and defensive positioning.” Meanwhile, Gena also reflected on his decision to leave POM Vipers and join the Lae Snax Tigers; a move he says pushed him beyond his comfort zone. “The Vipers were really good, but I had been there for a long time, and nothing was happening.”  “I decided to leave my comfort zone and join the Tigers. It was a good test for me, the first time I stepped out and challenged myself.” Off the field, Gena’s journey has been shaped by a challenging upbringing. He grew up in the out scats of Port Moresby-9mile Bomana turn-off, an environment he describes as tough, with many social challenges. “Growing up there was not easy as they were a lot of negative influences. I give all credit to my parents as they taught me well and kept me on the right path.” Gena says rugby league played a major role in changing his life and giving him direction, and he remains especially proud of his mother’s strength and support throughout his journey. As he continues to develop within the SP PNG Hunters system, Gena remains focused on learning, improving, and making the most of every opportunity that comes his way.

The newly established Mt Hagen School of Nursing is set to start enrolling students this year, marking a major milestone in addressing the long-standing shortage of trained health workers in the Western Highlands Province and the nation as a whole.College Director Mr. Gabriel Kewa said the initiative began in 2023 with the formation of a working committee, supported by continuous technical advice from the Chimbu School of Nursing. “This project started after careful planning and consultation. With the guidance and support from Chimbu School of Nursing, we completed all the necessary groundwork and documentation required to establish the college,” Mr. Kewa said. He explained that Western Highlands had gone more than 50 years without a nursing college, despite growing health service demands in the region. “There has been a clear need in the health sector. We saw the shortage of health workers and decided to take the initiative to establish a new school of nursing for our people,” he said. According to Mr. Kewa, land for the institution has already been identified, and infrastructure development is underway. The working committee formally notified the Department of Higher Education, Research, Science and Technology (DHERST) and submitted the college’s proposal in 2023. He said the proposal received positive feedback from the Acting Secretary for DHERST, who acknowledged that Mt Hagen was overdue for a nursing college and granted approval for the project to proceed. Following the approval, senior DHERST officials, conducted a site visit to Mt Hagen on 26th September 2021. After the visit, the department advised the working committee that the college could begin student intake in either 2026 or 2027. Based on that advice, the management decided to commence early preparations and begin accepting applications this year. “We have already released application forms, and the response has been very encouraging. A large number of students have applied so far,” Mr. Kewa said. The establishment of the Mt Hagen School of Nursing is expected to significantly strengthen healthcare training and improve access to skilled health professionals in the Western Highlands and surrounding regions.

The Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) has postponed two OFC Pro League matches scheduled to be played at North Harbour Stadium on today, due to adverse weather conditions affecting the Auckland region. deferred The affected fixtures include Tahiti United’s match against PNG Hekari FC, which was set for a 3:00pm NZT kickoff, and the evening clash between South Melbourne FC and Solomon Kings FC, scheduled for 7:00pm NZT. Auckland is currently under a Heavy Rain Warning (Orange Alert), in force from 9:00am Wednesday until 2:00am Thursday. OFC officials said the decision to postpone the matches was made in the interest of safety for players, match officials, and spectators. Both matches will be rescheduled to later dates within the competition calendar. The OFC confirmed that updated fixture details will be announced in due course. The postponement comes as parts of the region continue to experience significant rainfall and weather-related disruptions. Meanwhile, PNG Hekari FC is currently sitting at 7th place after losing to Solomon Kings FC 1-0.

Health authorities in Lae city, Morobe province have confirmed a rise in influenza cases caused by a virus known as H3N2 subtype, but at this current stage it is not a case for concern.According to Morobe Provincial Health Authority (MPHA) and Angau General Hospital Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Kipas Binga, their surveillance teams have observed a noticeable rise in patients presenting with flu symptoms and in response, medical teams have collected samples from affected patients, which have been sent to the Goroka Institute of Medical Research (IMR) for laboratory testing. Results from these tests are expected to determine the exact cause of the illness. Preliminary assessments suggest that most of the symptoms are consistent with common viral infections. Health workers are therefore managing the cases as common colds, which typically respond well to basic home remedies such as hot water steaming and rest. The majority of patients are being treated as outpatients, indicating that the illness is generally mild. Importantly, health authorities have confirmed that there have been no reported deaths directly linked to the flu cases to date. He stated that, they are continuing to monitor the situation closely and have reassured the public that further updates will be provided once laboratory results are available.  

Metoreia Health Centre has successfully conducted Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) training for its support staff, reaffirming its commitment to patient safety and high-quality healthcare delivery.The training equipped staff with practical skills to prevent the spread of infections within the facility. Key topics included proper hand hygiene, correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE), waste management, cleaning and disinfection procedures, and safe patient-care practices. Metoreia Health Centre Manager, Regina Wuri, highlighted the critical role of IPC in protecting both patients and healthcare workers. “Infection prevention is essential to ensure that everyone—staff and patients alike—remains safe while receiving or providing care,” she said. The program was facilitated by the National Capital District Provincial Health Authority (NCDPHA) in collaboration with public health partners and is part of ongoing efforts to build capacity at frontline health facilities, reducing the risk of healthcare-associated infections. Key outcomes of the training include improved hand hygiene, correct PPE usage, safer waste disposal and environmental management, and stronger teamwork in maintaining infection-free spaces. Dr. Robin Oge, Chief Executive Officer for NCDPHA, commended the Metoreia management and IPC team for their efforts. “Community members must continue to practice good hygiene and support health workers in keeping the facility safe,” he said.