Milestone man Ben Hunt has always said whenever the call comes through to represent Queensland in State of Origin – it’s one he will answer. His never say no mindset will see him play in his 20th match for the Maroons next Wednesday night, earning him a FOGS Dick “Tosser” Turner medal, something the Queensland hooker said was “a huge honour” to achieve. “I was always happy just to play one, but to get to 20 is a massive achievement and something I am very proud of,” Hunt said. “You look at the list of the guys that have made it and to be in their company is something I am very proud of and honoured to share the Tosser (Turner) Medal (with them).” Hunt – who has been sharing the hooking duties in recent series with Harry Grant – made his Queensland debut off the bench in the 2017 decider at Suncorp Stadium, the venue for next week’s series closer and has experienced the highs and lows of Origin. Coming out the other side of the team’s heavy loss in Game Two, Hunt was hoping to see the team learn from their poor performance and turn things around. After claiming Game One in Sydney, the Maroons have previously gone on to win seven series (1988, 1995, 1998, 2010, 2015, 2016, 2022) and lose only one (1994), with Hunt keen to play in front of a home crowd to try and clinch another decider. “It was definitely a bad defeat down in Melbourne and something that we are looking to improve on,” Hunt said. “We had a look at the Melbourne game, and it was definitely a tough watch, that is for sure. Billy [Slater] definitely had honest conversations with a fair few of us.” “I don’t think there were many guys in that game that could say they played a good game of footy. It was a tough video session, but one we needed.” “In 2022, we had a pretty bad loss in Game Two and came to Brisbane and won in a tight game. I think it is going to be like that Wednesday night. It is going to be a tough battle and a tight game and one both teams are going to be up for. We just need to draw on everything we can, embrace the crowd at Suncorp and get a win.” “Coming back to Suncorp, it is always the place we play our best footy. It is our home ground and a place where you don’t like to lose. It brings out the best in us.” Now 34 years old, the St George Illawarra Dragons captain and halfback has plenty of experience to share with the Queensland squad, but his advancing age – and that of his skipper Daly Cherry-Evans – have seen questions asked about if this will be his final campaign in maroon. “It could be. It is not something I have given a lot of thought to,” Hunt said. “At the moment, I am enjoying playing Origin. Towards the end of the year of in the off-season, I might have a think about that, but at the moment I am enjoying myself.” “I have always said that as long as Billy is going to call, I’d be happy to play.” "It is always a huge honour to play Origin, but I think it is going to come to a point where I will make a decision at some stage.” “I am not too sure about the old fella (Cherry-Evans). He doesn’t seem to be ageing at all.” “He is playing excellent footy and seems like his body is in good nick and he is looking after himself.” Source: NRL.com

Australian First Nations artists collaborate once again with emerging Bougainville musicians to create a track that celebrates the wisdom of elders with the song titled, “Pasin Tumbuna” (Traditional Ways). “Pasin Tumbuna” was released on 5th July, thanks to Wantok Musik. The song features Adrian Tjupurrula (Tjupurru) Fabila and his son Jake, with 2023 Bougainville Voice X-Plosion contestants, Wenceslaus Getsi Jnr, Samuel Taipiri, Emma Getsi, Esther Kommai, Jenitha Hemison and Solomon Satoriri. Other contributors include Richard Mogu (vocals, bass & drums), David Bridie (keyboards), Melchior Wagum (bamboo flutes & guitars), Bernard Hanga and Tsarlayse Iamu (vocals). Inspired by the NAIDOC Week theme ‘For Our Elders’ and recorded in Bougainville in October 2023, its lyrics were co-written by the Autonomous Bougainville Government Minister for Community Development, Hon. Morris Opeti, Richard Mogu, Tsarlayse Iamu, Jake Fabila, and late Chief Philip. The song blends rap and sounds from ancestral Bougainville and Indigenous Australian cultures. Including the voices of local elders, Chief Mark Waraka and the late Chief Philip Buritoa. This is the second follows the highly successful track, Wansolwara (One Ocean), recorded in 2022 and launched through Wantok Musik last year. The 2023 NAIDOC theme struck a chord with the Bougainville youth, “we want the next generation to tap into what we’ve learned from our elders and carry on their legacy”, said Samuel. Pasin Tumbuna was mixed in Buka by local sound engineer Melchior Wagum with Richard Mogu, David Bridie and Dave Walker and mastered by Wantok Musik sound engineers in Australia. The initiative is a partnership between the Australian Government, the Autonomous Bougainville Government, and Wantok Musik, through Australia’s Bougainville Partnership Youth Initiative. The track is dedicated to late Chief Philip. More Information on the track can be found in the link provided https://www.facebook.com/wantokmusik/.

The Minister for Transport and Civil Aviation and Namatanai MP Walter Schnaubelt has praised a local landowner company LaKa Forest Development Limited (LFDL) for launching a new aid post and a health worker staff house in Konoagil Local Level Government (LLG) New Ireland Province (NIP). Minister Schnaubelt made this statement during the initial launching at Morokon, Konoagil LLG, Funded by LFDL at a total cost of K350, 000. “I commend the LaKa Forest Development Limited under the timber project rights and for their leadership to see the flow on benefits to the community at large.” “LaKa Forest Development Limited has demonstrated a strong commitment to fulfilling its community obligations by actively engaging in projects that benefit residents, particularly in health and education sectors.” Minister Schnaubelt reiterated, “The benefits are there, you see it, you feel it and you receive it.” Minister Schnaubelt added the new Morokon aid post will relieve the struggles and hardships faced by mothers, children and the public at large from walking long distance to neighbouring Silur Sub-Health Centre for medical attention. In a bid to fully equip the aid post, K100, 000 was committed by Minister Schnaubelt to support the recent developments. K50, 000 for the purchase of white goods for the staff house, and new banana boat with 40 horse engine including two diesel drums. While the other K50, 000 was distributed to the nearby Morokon Primary School and K30, 000 for the purchase of Morokon women mama market banana boat to transport fresh produce to a buying point in Namatanai town. Minister Schnaubelt was impressed and acknowledged the efforts from the Contractor Mumusi Holdings Limited hired by LFDL, for initially building the staff house at Weitin Valley Primary and the 4-in-1 classroom and double classroom in Siar Primary School. He was impressed during the recent electoral visit to Lak constituency and the Contribution from local Company Laka Forest Development Limited and officially opened a staff house at Weitin Valley Primary School and Siar Primary School’s 4-in-1 classroom and a double classroom. Therefore, Minister Schnaubelt further stated government recognizes the commitment the company has in fostering development in the area and will partner to deliver services at all fronts for the people of Konoagil.  

This afternoon five new Ministers were sworn into the Government Cabinet at Government House in Port Moresby. The ceremony was witnessed by Prime Minister James Marape, and members of Cabinet with Deputy Prime Minister John Rosso. PM Marape further expressed his joy and confidence in the new Minsters, stating that they are overqualified for their duties and bring exceptional experience to the table. The new Ministers are: Wapenamanda MP Miki Kaeok - Finance Minister, Unggai Bena MP Kinoka Feo - Higher Education Minister, Vanimo Green MP Belden Namah - Culture and Tourism Minister, Tewaii Siassi MP Dr Kobby Bomareo - NHC Minister and Kerema Open MP Thomas Opa - Caretaker Energy and Petroleum Minister.

The Digicel ExxonMobil Cup Round 13 saw the Lae Snax Tigers claim second victory in Port Moresby (Pom) and against GULF Isou, but this time at the National Football Stadium (NFS), Port Moresby, 24-10. The Snax Tigers made a strong impression in the first half scoring 4 tries. The forwards opened the score board and the backline securing with a strong lead. Tigers second rower Reynolds Tai scored the first opening try in the 7th minute followed by another into the 11th minute by prop Jordan Steve. Fullback Douglas David score Tigers third try with Dickson Otto sealing their lead, all in the first half. While Gulf Isou Centre Eliakim Lukara break the ice and score first try for Gulf Isou in the 29th minute followed by a failed conversion, trailing the Snax Tigers into half time, 4-24. The Gulf Isou struck in the 43rd minute scoring a try and a successful conversion, trailing the Snax Tigers a 14points difference. The remaining minutes saw tremendous defense from both teams as the Tigers defend their score, while the Gulf Isou desperate to score. Both teams developed a fair amount of drop balls and silly mistakes until the full 80 minutes were counted. The Lae Snax Tigers once again claim their second win over Gulf Isou in Round Two Lae League, Gulf Isou lost 14-21 while conquering their battle in NFS following their win over the Moni Plus NCD Vipers in Round 10 34-18. This makes the Lae Snax take their 3rd Out-of 5 successful wins in their home away games. The Snax Tigers have now made eight wins, three loses and two drawn matches.

South Pacific Brewery (SP Brewery) announced its partnership alongside the thrilling National Mask and Warwagira Festival committee, aiding K5000 for the planning and staging of the exciting festival. The festival celebrates diverse mask cultures of East New Britain and set to take place from July 10th to 13th. The announcement was attended by SP Brewery’s Regional Sales Manager of NGI Mr. Leon Schulz and the National Mask and Warwagira Festival committee. Mr. Schulz, expressed the company’s delight in supporting such significant cultural celebrations. "For many years, SP Brewery has been a proud advocate of promoting and preserving the diverse cultural traditions that make our nation so unique." "This contribution is a testament to our commitment to supporting cultural events that celebrate our heritage and bring communities together,” he said. "The National Mask and Warwagira Festival holds a special place in our hearts, as it showcases the vibrant traditions and talents of our people." "We thank the organizers of the National Mask and Warwagira Festival for their dedication and hard work in preserving our cultural legacy." The donation will guarantee the festival's continued existence and help it succeed. From July 12–13, 2024, SP Brewery will setup a booth at the festival to promote their agenda for responsible alcohol consumption. Those older than the legal drinking age (18+) are encouraged to visit the booth.

Four police officers from the National Capital District (NCD) and Central commands were served with their administrative charges by the Internal Investigation Unit police officers just recently. The Acting Commander of NCD/Central, Assistant Commissioner (ACP) of Police Peter Guinness confirmed that three officers were attached to the NCD command while the other one was attached to Central province command. He said two of the police officers who were arrested and charged, were involved in the death of another police officer, late Constable Vianey Yembinaro on June 15th. The two policemen were arrested and charged with wilful murder and are detained in the police cell awaiting their court dates. He said that apart from being criminally charged they were also served with three administrative charges. ACP Guinness further added that the other police officer attached to the Criminal Investigation Division (CID) was also arrested and charged under the Firearms Act for misplacing a police-issued firearm that was in his possession. He said the police officer was also served with two administrative charges. “The fourth policeman was served with four administrative charges for unlawfully discharging firearms after the victims agreed to sort the matter out of the court. Therefore, the policeman was served with the administrative charges, and he was given fourteen days to respond to his charges”, ACP Guinness said. While praising the NCD Internal Investigation Unit for their efforts in handling the four police officers, ACP Guinness stated the Unit will keep up its work to ensure that police officers in the various commands do not cross any lines while carrying out their assigned responsibilities. “We are police officers, and we must act and do things as police officers while on or off duty. When we consume alcohol or have arms or vehicles in our possession, we must always think and act as police officers. We are peacemakers and not trouble or lawbreakers. Our actions will affect our children and families if we are dismissed from the force,” ACP Guinness said. He indicated that certain police officers are acting improperly; these actions are being observed and would be addressed appropriately. Meanwhile, ACP Guinness added that several police officers had previously received notices of dismissal in addition to being presented with criminal and administrative proceedings.

The South Sydney Rabbitohs have continued their mid-season revival with a 32-16 win over Parramatta to notch their fifth-straight victory. The Rabbitohs have moved to within one win of the top eight, however their for-and-against leaves them on the back foot as they attempt to make headway on a cluttered ladder. South Sydney halfback Cody Walker was superb as he directed his team around a wet CommBank Stadium, turning the Eels around with his astute kicking game. The Rabbitohs defence formed the basis of the victory, with Parramatta generating multiple attacking opportunities but finding it difficult to turn possession into points. South Sydney opened the scoring after a pair of Eels errors, with Walker executing a scrum set play to put Jacob Gagai over in the corner. A Cameron Murray error from the ensuing set of six provided the Eels with a chance to hit back and they peppered the South Sydney line for an extended period of time to no avail. As the game entered the midway period of the first half, it was Parramatta's turn to deny a near-certain try, with Clint Gutherson and Reagan Campbell-Gillard producing try-saving tackles in back-to-back plays. The desperation allowed the Eels to gain the upper hand, with the hosts spending extended periods of play camped in the attacking 20 metre zone. The Rabbitohs, however, held firm and eventually extended their advantage to 10-0 with a long-range try to Jack Wighton against the run of play. The double-digit lead did not last long, with Blaize Talagi putting Dylan Brown through a hole before crossing for a try a couple of tackles later to make it 10-4. The first half had another twist left in it, Walker capitalising on some tired Eels defenders to extend his team's lead in the final minute of the period. Driving rain fell as the teams emerged from half time, with Parramatta quickly gaining the ascendancy. The pressure eventually led to points, with Campbell-Gillard crossing from short range to cut the deficit to four. For everything the Eels threw at their opponents, the Rabbitohs had a response, with South Sydney doing enough to keep their noses in front throughout the second half. This time it was Latrell Mitchell who found the line, the fullback making the most of the wet conditions to dive early and beat the Parramatta goal-line defence. Gagai then made it 26-10 with 10 minutes to play when he crossed for his second. Bryce Cartwight scored for the Eels to give his side some hope, however it was quickly extinguished when Wighton sliced through to put the game to bed. Source: NRL.com

The Kukawi Primary School in West Yangoru LLG officially received a new 4-in-1 classroom on Wednesday 26th June. Despite the school closing in 2023 due to faction fights, Kukawi Primary School in West Yangoru LLG of Yangoru-Sausia District East Sepik Province opened its doors once again this year with development investments projects funded by the District Development Authority (DDA) through the leadership of local MP and Minister for International Trade and Investment, Richard Maru. Minister Maru was thrilled to officially open the new K300, 000 worth 4-in-1 classroom. Kukawi Primary School was established in 2011, serves 10 communities. The school was only able to enroll 150 students in the past but with the new 4-in-1 classroom that was officially opened, the school can now enroll over 300 students. The DDA will also fund a new staff house worth K50, 000 with construction work to start in two weeks. “I thank God for his power in convicting the people of Kukawi to reopen the school this year." "You have done well and as your MP I say thank you and praise God for the good decision you have made,” said Minister Maru. “This is to show my gratitude to the community for re-opening the school,” said Minister Maru. Minister Maru challenged Inspectors, school board, head teacher, teachers and students to deliver academic results with these investment including previous projects promote a fruitful environment to produce results. “Classrooms will not deliver the results." "It is the students, teachers, and the communities who will deliver the results." "We cannot have schools for the sake of schools; we must have schools to deliver quality education." I want to see academic excellence from Kukawi Primary School from here onwards." In the future we will only reward the schools that perform well academically,” said Minister Maru. Minister Maru further challenged the head teacher to tighten discipline including not compriomising with discipline if you want your school to produce top students, and terminate students involved in drinking homebrew and coming to school. Furthermore Minister Maru announced phase one involving payment already being made for power lines to be pulled through from Karapia to Kumun junction. “For phase two we will pull through the power lines to Pomalmal High School." "I want all schools in the district to have access to electricity,” said Minister Maru.

Mohonji Four Square Primary School opens a very modern 4-in-1 classroom worth K290, 000 thanks to the Yangoru-Saussia District Development Authority (DDA) recently, in the East Yangoru LLG of Yangoru-Saussia District, East Sepik Province. The official opening of this 4-in-1 classroom funded by the Yangoru-Saussia District Development Authority (DDA) follows the recent approval by the National Education Board for Four Square church to be a member of the education system agency. The Mohonji Four Square Primary School is the only school in the district run by the Four Square church and established in 2013, to provide early childhood education and received its primary school code last year. The Minister for International Trade and Investment and Yangoru-Saussia MP, Hon. Richard Maru expressed gratitude to the Mohonji Four Square Primary School for their commitment and purpose to early childhood education in Yangoru Saussia District. “The Yangoru-Saussia DDA and Four Square Church will now be partners in the development of our district." "We never know where the LORD will lead us in this journey- it could mean other schools or health centres in the future.” Minister Maru emphasized his observation in his 12 years as the Member for Yangoru Saussia District top Primary schools seem to be only church schools in the district. “As a leader, this speaks volumes." "This shows that where God is the students perform better." "This is why I am leaning towards church schools, and I will give priority to funding them because I want the people of Yangoru-Saussia District to be godly people.” Minister Maru further stated that the Yangoru-Saussia DDA under his leadership will start rewarding only the schools that perform academically. He also added there are only 8,000 spaces available for tertiary Institutions in the country while our country produces over 30,000 grade 12 students every year and the rest become shool leavers. “If we as a district do not focus on godliness and excellence, then we will only be producing school leavers.” "This is why I want godly schools and those that are focused on academic excellence, and they will be given priority in district funding while I am the Member for Yangoru-Saussia District,” said Minister Maru. Minister Maru further made a commitment of K150,000 to build two new staff houses for Mohonji Four Square Primary School next year, and he also assured them of his continuous support.

Transparency International PNG (TIPNG) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) to present its annual report for the year 2023 to its members on Saturday 29 June 2024. Members of the AGM conducted the election of directors and office bearers, the results of the elections were that Mr. Peter Aitsi was re-elected as Chairperson by the financial members of TIPNG. Following that with Mrs. Stephannie Kirriwom-Sawong elected as Secretary of the Board. A further addition of eight individuals were also elected to serve on the board including Jerome Sesega, Mary Udu, Evah Kuamin, Richard Kassman, William Koregai, Christopher Elphick, Bill Doa-Neill and Michael McWalter. Chairman Peter Aitsi in his welcoming address to the TIPNG Board of Directors, emphasized how much he anticipated their dedication, participation, and input. The Association's long-standing partnerships with the public and private sectors will be deliberately strengthened, with a focus on robust governance prioritized by the Board. This is particularly important given the current climate, which is characterized by a lack of civic space, a growing sense of impunity for corruption, and a lack of public confidence in state agencies. “The 2024 Board will seek to advance a number of key priorities including advocacy on electoral reform.” “We will also be rolling out our civic engagement activities through the Youth against Corruption Association and our on-going partnership with the Community Coalition against Corruption,” said Mr. Aitsi. “TIPNG is also setting a new course in our Strategic Plan 2024 – 2028 to not only empower like-minded individuals and organizations, but influence them so that we can realize meaningful, collective action in stopping corruption.” Directors of TIPNG serve on a volunteer basis and are not compensated for their work. The Board is responsible for establishing the organization's mission, defining its goals, overseeing TIPNG's overall performance, financial performance, and adherence to legal requirements.

The crime of Grand Theft Auto has increased recently in the National Capital District according to reports provided by the police. National Capital District (NCD) Metropolitan Superintendent Silva Sika confirmed that more than three Stolen Motor Vehicles (SMV) cases are reported weekly, although most of the stolen vehicles that were reported to police had been recovered. NCD Met Supt Sika expressed his gratitude to his relentless officer for their hard work, locating and returning the stolen vehicles safely to their owners. He added his thanks to the local knowledge from the police officers, vehicles are located within hours. Met Supt Sika acknowledged the NCDC reservist for their bravery and active involvement in the policing duties in the city. “I was pleased with one of the reservist units who recovered two vehicles last week at two different locations in the city” Sika said. He said one of the vehicles was recovered at Siraka while the other was at Hanuabada. The owner of the vehicle located in Hanuabada confirmed a different plate number affixed the vehicle. Met Supt Sika also added that the other police units had also recovered two taxis that were stolen in the city plus some others. He said most of the vehicles that were stolen and reported to police were taxis and small vehicles that are driven around the city during the night. “When dealing with such crimes it's important to report it as soon as possible to the main operation Centre or any police officers you know.” “We all can help each other by reporting crimes that happen in our respective areas to the police.” “I am calling on the public moving in vehicles and those witnessing such crimes to report quickly to the police with accurate information so they will respond immediately.”