The Papua New Guinea owned Paradise Foods on Wednesday proudly launched their new biscuit product the “Teisti Biscuit” at the Paradise Food Head Office Kawai Site in Port Moresby. The official opening was attended and presented by the Paradise Foods Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Michael Penrose, Chairman of the Board Mr. Anthony Smare, official guest Prime Minister James Marape and Key Stakeholders. Chairman Mr. Smare acknowledged the presence of PM Marape and expressed gratitude to accept the official cutting of the ribbon. He further emphasized the challenges taken up by the management and staff of Paradise Foods, to tirelessly produce a product designed to meet the essential filling option at an accessible price, ideal for consumers seeking both convenience and value. Furthermore, stressing the product offers a budget friendly option that doesn’t compromise quality or taste, financially adequate to fulfil consumer budget at this time of inflation in the country. The Teisti Biscuit is produced at the Paradise Foods Hunta Biscuit Factory in Lae and already been acknowledged by local loyal distributors in the country, it will soon be available at the nearest commercial outlets for K1.00. The Teisti Biscuit maintains high standards of quality, carefully crafted to ensure it meets consumer expectations. Meanwhile, PM James Marape acknowledged efforts of the paradise food’s management and staff to produce an affordable commodity during this time of inflation in the country, to market an affordable, quality and relevant product to the nation. Marape further highlighted the slow process to overcome inflation during this time and congratulated Mr. Smare for successfully fulfilling their endeavours to produce a promising game changer to the competitive biscuit sector. Designed to deliver maximum value at an unbeatable price point of K1.00. Paradise foods price decision is strategic, aiming to capture table market sales and impulsive spenders who prioritise convenience and value money. The Teisti Biscuit perfectly balances affordability and satisfaction while maintaining high-quality.

Australia has partnered with Women’s Micro Bank Limited (WMBL) to support PNG’s agriculture SMEs, by providing loans through the Revolving Fund Facility funded by the Australian Government. Attendees at the recent Credit Guarantee Corporation (CGC) Agri Trade Expo in Port Moresby heard that these loans were providing opportunities for business expansion and stronger supply chains. The Revolving Fund is an K8 million investment by the Australian government and managed by WMBL creating an affordable credit facility designed to provide short-term loans to exporters, SMEs and women-owned and women-led SMEs. Coffee exporter, Kosem Ltd in Jiwaka, shared their experience as recipients, having taken out two Revolving Fund business loans through WMBL. Kosem CEO Mark Munnul Jr explained what this meant for the business and the coffee farmers they source from. "It's hard for businesses in the agriculture space to grow.” “We survive, but to grow, we need money.” “Fortunately, Australia, through Mama Bank, was able to assist us and give us the Revolving Fund loan and we were able to expand into Wau, and we were able to get coffee from the farmers in Wau." Kosem Ltd sourced coffee from more than 8,500 farmers in Wau in the most recent coffee season with its second Revolving Fund loan. This shows that when access to finance is provided to one business, economic opportunities and market connections can be created for many. The loan was made possible by Australian Government’s investment of AUSD3.3 million to establish the Revolving Fund Facility, which provides affordable credit to PNG agribusinesses More information about the Revolving Fund can be retrieved by contacting Women’s Micro Bank: +675 7091 0900 or info@womenmicrobank.com.

Minister for International Trade and Investment Richard Maru urged local investors to invest in the Sea Park Development Project (SPDP) opposite APEC Haus in Port Moresby during the groundbreaking ceremony of the phase one of the project- the Azure Residences. The K2.2 billion investment of the SPDP includes the development of the Azure Residences, Era Kone Hotel and Walk (Phase 1.5), Era Kone Residences (Phase 2), and the Fountain (Phase 3). “We need Papua New Guinea (PNG) investors to partner the investors at SPDP in this exciting journey.” “I am calling on our super funds- Nasfund and Nambawan Super, our landowner companies, and other PNG investors to partner our investors here as this project still has phases two and three.” Minister Maru also called on the investors of SPDP to submit a formal submission for the Cabinet to consider and endorse this investment as a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) so it can benefit from the SEZ incentive package offered by the Government. “APEC Haus is a premier location for major international events and used out weekly so I am insisting on the SPDP investors to complement the National Government’s investment in APEC Haus with a hotel development in their master plan for phase two.” “This will aid me to secure Government approval for this project to be an SEZ.” “In principle on behalf of the Prime Minister, Hon. James Marape and the Cabinet, I will assure as soon as submissions are received the SPDP investors that we will give it a priority and make sure they also enjoy the benefits that we are offering to the Paga Hill SEZ.” “With the K2.2 billion investment they are certainly going to enjoy a 10-year tax holiday and duty-free importation of construction materials- the same incentives offered to Paga Hill SEZ.” Minister Maru expressed gratitude and acknowledged investors for choosing to invest in PNG when the country needed investments to create jobs and income generating opportunities. “Our greatest need as a country today is to secure investments because investments will create jobs and opportunities” “Assuming we lock in a couple of mining projects and other projects, I can see the economy growing at 6 per cent rate per annum for 10 to 15 years running despite our challenges.” “For the first time we are offering incentives in SEZs- that is something we have never done before.” “We are going all in to compete with the rest of the world to attract investment dollars.” “I congratulate the investors of SPDP for this very important investment.” “The returns for real estate in this country is far higher than most countries and I have no doubt that all the apartments in Azure Residences will be sold prior to the completion of the construction.” Minister Maru also thanked NCD Governor Powes Parkop and his team for collaborating with the investors to make the project happen, starting with the launching of phase one today. “I am a full believer and supporter of the concept promoted by Governor Parkop the ‘Amazing Port Moresby.’” “If the skyline can change in Singapore, why can’t it change in Port Moresby?” “The Paga Hill and Ela Beach are the only places that have the opportunity to change the skyline of our beautiful Port Moresby, the starting of a very exciting development.” “I cannot wait to see phase one, two, and three of this project started and completed because it will change our city.”

Twenty seven-year-old rugby league forward, Muka Peter has signed a one-year contract with the Rugby Club Salon XIII- the Jaguars in the French Rugby League Elite 2 competition all thanks to the Wantok Sports Agency. Maku, who hails from the Simbu province and residing at the Tokarara suburb in Port Moresby city, will soon be making his debut with the Jaguars in the 2024 French Rugby League Semi-Professional Elite 2 Season from September to April 2025. Forward, who plays with the West New Britain (WNB) Provincial Government Kimbe Cutter’s, told PNG HAUSBUNG that the opportunity would not have been possible without the Rugby recruitment services from the Wantok Sports Agency to help publicize his skills and experience to the Rugby Club Salon XIII. Upon receiving the contract from the Salon XIII, he was relieved as it was his intention to start a new journey overseas playing professional rugby league, a much sought after change after nine years in Papua New Guinea's domestic tournaments. He is now focused on completing the 2024 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup Season with the Kimbe Cutters before his departure to France, including settling personal and family affairs despite his initial travel dates is yet to be confirmed. In his younger days while living at Tokarara suburb’s Rakatani Road, Muka played in the local leagues with clubs like the Tokarara Mix Dogs and Nest United then moved onto the Magani Rugby League Club in the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) National Capital District (NCD) Town Competition. In his days in the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup, he played three years with the Rabaul Gurias in 2018-2019 and one year each with the Central Dabaris and Sepik Pride, and then with his current Kimbe Cutters. The young lad expressed deep gratitude and appreciation to SP Hunters Captain and former ENB Rabaul Gurias Skipper Illa Alu, Hela Wigmen Head Trainor Nelson Stone and Late PNG Orchids Head Trainer Andrew Stone for the support, wisdom and time given while growing into the community leagues and local professional tournaments. The three figures including Muka share one community in Tokarara, and they played a significant role in preparing and guiding him on and off the field, especially Mr. Alu as a big brother, coach, teammate and skipper during both Community Leagues and three years with the Rabaul Gurias. He further stressed that he would like to maintain the idea and spirit of brotherhood when living in France as it’s always been an uplifting group motion. Muka is confident he will fully embrace and utilize the opportunity to make his stand in the French Rugby League and will take one step at a time and trust the process, whilst given an opportunity to excel into other rugby league clubs and Elite 1 Division during the season.

Round 15 of the 2024 Digicel ExxonMobil Cup saw the too strong PRK Mendi Muruks defeat the home team Moni Plus NCD Vipers at the National Football Stadium, 20-12. The PRK Mendi Muruks take win with a final try by Ismael Balkaua solidifying their lead and final score 20-12, this after trailing in the first half with 10-12. After a weekend rest from rugby after 14 consistent weekend games, the round 15 game between the Mendi Muruks and NCD Vipers had an intense first and second half with both teams heavy on adrenaline but were impatient in playing ball. Eager to take score the first to lead the game in the first half, the NCD Vipers were first on the score board scoring a try in the 11th and 20th minute by Lameki Poi and Ludwig Pal followed by 1 out of 2 successful conversions from Joel Gena, additional with a successful penalty goal by Patrick Morea. Mendi Muruk’s were able to respond directly after Vipers two tries with Douglas Tandaku 3 minutes after Vipers first try and Myles Posu after 14 minutes of the Viper’s second try, with 1 out of 2 successful conversions by Mark Tony trailing the NCD Vipers 10-12 completing the first half 40 minutes. The Mendi Muruks came out strong into the second half with two final tries of the second half. Winger Gabriel Taune in the 52nd minute and Ishmael Balkawa in the 58th minute followed by 1 out of 2 successful conversions by Mark Tony. Although the game had its heated moments between players and officials, players were disciplined too. However, Vipers Sylvestor Bulu was sinbinned for dangerous contact in the 52nd minute of the second half. The Mendi Muruks kept their cool from first and second 40 minutes, keeping their eye on the game and not distractions, Muruks won 20-12. Mendi Muruks claimed their second win after a draw in round 13 against the Goroka Lahanis in Goroka NSI, 20-20. DABARIS DUST EAGLES IN DIGICEL EXXONMOBIL R15 By: E’lle-Gore Yasi The Gas Resource Central Dabaris thrashed the Wamp Nga Mt Hagen Eagles 38-14 at the National Football Stadium, Port Moresby. The Central Dabaris were too strong for the Mt Hagen Eagles taking control of the game in the first half, scoring seven tries while the Eagles with three only in the second half, Dabaris won 38-14. After resting for a weekend the Central Dabaris dominated the first half, scoring five tries in the first half while the Hagen Eagles defended for full 40 minutes of the first half trailing 0-26. Central Dabaris Lega Batia Scored the first try in the 17th minute, Rex Kaupa in the 27th, Bartholomew Evi in the 28th minute, Lote Kuman in the 34th and finally Mathew Wauwe in the 37th minute. 3 out of 5 conversions were successful, 2 first tries were unsuccessful conversions. The margin score drove the Hagen eagles to run and tackle harder in the second half, intimidating their opponents but were unsuccessful, whilst the Central Dabaris focused more on ball possession. Central Dabaris Lega Batia once again scored the first in 46th minute of the second half, followed by Douglas Pirika in the 46th minute. Hagen Eagles finally broke a pathway for their fullback Dickson Pipi to score their first try 49th minute after Dabaris first try in the second half, this followed by Komati Adam and Adam Korowa in the 72nd and 74th minute. 1 out of the 3 conversions were claimed by Jero Kunda TRAILING THE Central Dabaris 38-14. The frustration and impatient behavior had emerged into dangerous contact resulting in the sin bin of Mt Hagen Eagles, Junior Bala and Dickson Pipi. The Gas Resource Central Dabaris take their second win after loss in round 13 against the ENB Rabaul Gurias 22-6.

Relentless goal-line defence in the first half has seen the Newcastle Knights hold out the Sydney Roosters 12-10 in a classic match to launch the 2024 NRLW season. The Roosters fought back gallantly in the second half after trailing 0-10 at the half-time break to score the only two tries of the half, but were not able to convert their second try to force the match into golden point. Highlighted as stars to watch before the game, Tamika Upton's creativity in attack and Jesse Southwell's commitment in defence were key cogs in the win, with the duo supported by an imposing effort from Caitlan Johnston-Green who provided plenty of big hits. The Roosters put in an admirable display all match despite their pre-season injury setbacks and looked the good early, attacking the Knights line to dominate the start of the game. However they could not force their way over the line and were made to pay, with the home side making the most of their chances with two quick-fire tries to Olivia Higgins and Abigail Roach giving them their lead at half-time. New Knights coach Ben Jeffries had put a strong focus on improving fitness in the squad during the pre-season and it showed with the effort his side were able to put into their early defence which set the side up to strike later in the game. The Roosters never went away however, with crafty playmaker Tarryn Aiken playing as halfback after spending the season at five-eighth last year, setting up her side's two second-half tries to nearly steal the game. The first came via Jocelyn Kelleher for their first try of the game with 12 minutes in the game to keep things interesting. Her kicking game was on display again in the final minute of the match, putting through a kick for Jess Sergis to score in the final minute of the game. However, Kelleher was unable to convert, with the Knights just holding on for the win. Next week, the Knights head to GIO Stadium in Canberra to take on the Raiders on Saturday, while the Roosters will play host to the Broncos at Allianz Stadium on Sunday. NRL.com

Fiji’s Iowane Teba breaks through the Uruguay defense for a try on day one of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at Stade de France on 24 July, 2024 in Paris. Photo: World Rugby / Mike Lee - KLC Olympics rugby sevens men's defending champions, Fiji, have won both their pool games on day one of the competition. The Fijians defeated Uruguay 40-12 in their opening game, before winning over the USA 38-12 on Thursday morning. Samoa lost their first game 21-14 to Australia, before going down to Argentina 28-12, reducing their hopes of making the next round. Fiji, New Zealand, Ireland, Australia and Argentina have all won two games each on day one and have secured quarterfinal spots. "The first game is always hard, our bodies were not that fired up yet. But we improved on that and we also improved the technical stuff, like how to handle the kick-off," Fiji captain and double Olympic gold medalist Jerry Tuwai said. The men's sevens continue with the final round of pool matches starting midnight (Friday NZ time) before the quarterfinals begin at 7am. Teams then take a rest on Saturday as the Games Opening Ceremony takes place before finals day on Sunday. In a statement, World Rugby said sevens kicked off at Paris 2024 in front of a record-breaking crowd of 69,000 fans at Stade de France. World Rugby Chairman Sir Bill Beaumont said: "We wanted to get the Games off to a spectacular start, but, wow, today was special. "A single-day record crowd for rugby sevens, an incredible atmosphere, and of course, scintillating rugby. Sevens brought its A game, and the world was watching." The women's competition runs from Monday. rnz.co.nz

The Papua New Guinea Olympic Committee (PNGOC) confirms the final 2024 Team PNG 27-year-old Olympian athlete Mr. John Ume, from Kairuku, Central Province, solidifies his invite to compete in the 63.5kg division for boxing in the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The invitation and chance came about as a result of an athlete withdrew from another nation, leaving PNG to fill in the vacant spot. His appointment alongside Coach Peter Morrison to the Paris 2024 Olympic Game is a welcomed addition to the current crop of athletes on route to Paris. Mr. Ume holds experience under his belt, represented PNG previously at the 2020 Summer Olympics and achieved a gold medal at the 2019 Pacific Games, and also showcasing his skills at the 2018 Commonwealth Games. The total number of athletes representing Team PNG at the Paris 2024 Olympics rises to 7 including Mr. Ume. They will compete across 5 sports: Athletics, Taekwondo, Swimming, Weightlifting, and now Boxing. The PNGOC expresses its gratitude for the opportunity granted, allowing the inclusion of one more of our athletes into the boxing category, Mr. Ume. The PNGOC also extends its best wishes to the athlete and coach on their journey and success in representing Papua New Guinea at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The non-government organization PNGOC once again embrace and supports its athletes for their achievement, inspiring and uniting Papua New Guineans through sporting excellence and success.

The Governor General of Papua New Guinea (PNG) in his speech marking the 43rd Remembrance Day Ceremony in Port Moresby city yesterday, paid respected and honoured the sacrifices of the fallen and heroes still alive when speaking at the Remembrance Day Memorial Park at Ela Beach. Governor General H.E Sir Bob Dadae expressed his gratitude for being part of the 43rd Remembrance Day commemoration to honour the ones who gave their lives for the greater good of the country during their time before, during and after the Great War. “They were a people in their own time. Many of them died without telling us their names, or where they came from or, who their families were and what their dreams were. Their world was nothing more than the orders they received from their superiors. Their comrades were all they had, and they were determined to serve to the fullest of their abilities. These war men were surrounded by orders and a duty to care. They understood their duty to serve, and they served with pride and distinction.” “They demonstrated obedience and selflessness at the highest level. But little did they know that their actions would, in fact, be the reason why we all stand here today as a country and a people. “Today, it is hard to imagine how such values that are so inherent in our people, during the time of war and even peace time, could crumble in the face of modernity and development.” “The foundations and building blocks of villages and communities have broken down. Ill-discipline and disorder have become serious problems facing us today. This is not the kind of society and community our heroes fought for.” Furthermore, he urged the people not to forget the legacy the forefathers of Papua New Guinea, whom through their service, helped brought lasting peace and harmony. These men served as carriers, coast watches, guides and as soldiers in the Papuan Infantry Battalion (PIB) and the Niugini Infantry Battalion (NIB) in the Second World War. “Who better knew of the terrain and the best routes than our people? Who was physically able to traverse the mountains, rivers and jungles of this land while carrying a heavy load? We pay our respects to those ordinary people from our villages who took part in battle, who carried the wounded, who carried supplies, and those who acted as lookouts or guides. The contributions made by our people was valuable in supporting those on the front lines.” “They fought for a society that is disciplined and well ordered; where families are protected, leaders are respected, women and girls are cared for, youths are well behaved, and children are groomed to become better citizens. Nations are built on hardships, struggles and endurance. It is a long road with endless challenges, but with courage, bravery, obedience and selflessness, no barrier is an obstacle. “ “That is the spirit of our war heroes we must never forget!” “Let it not be in vain. Let it be the foundation for us to put aside our differences as leaders and citizens and work together in peace.” Grand Chief Dadae concluded by extending his gratitude to the attendees and public for their presence on the historic occasion, wishing all to continue to celebrate in remembrance of the men who gave their lives for us to see another day.

The significant 43rd Remembrance Day commemoration for Papua New Guinean (PNG) world war heroes was a successful event this morning at the Remembrance Day Park at Ela Beach Port Moresby. The marching parade led into the initial starting by the Disciplinary forces such as the PNG Defense Force, Police Band and Warders, including the Saint John’s Ambulance Officers and late public servants and scouts in Port Moresby. The event’s master of ceremony Lieutenant Poweseu Kisokau expressed his gratitude to the Director of National Events Rot Wong responsible for making a successful turn out. Sir Kisokau emphasized the government’s intent of the PNG Government to recognize the Remembrance Day with the involvement of all and not only disciplinary members like the PNGDF and its predecessors. Furthermore, he expressed his joy and respect to the hardship and selflessness of local heroes and role models who have sacrificed most of their lives for the wellbeing of the country, form being a soldier to being a public servant in the duration of the Great War in 1914-1918. With the theme: “Their Legacy, Our Inspiration, lest we forget,” the event witnessed a graceful audience crowding the Remembrance Day Park at Ela Beach, taking a moment to remember and respect the fallen and living heroes who sacrificed most of their lives with their contribution to the creation of an independent state of PNG. The event was attended by the Principle Guest Governor for NCD Powes Parkop, Guest of Honor Governor General Grand Chief Bob Dadae and Lady Emeline Tufi Dadae, Host Acting Commander for PNGDF Philip Polewara, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Moresby South MP Justin TKatchenko, Australian Defense Force Major General Collin Ben, representatives of the Australian Embassy, U.S Embassy, Japanese Embassy, Solomon Island and Vanuatu. The event held its last prime stage of the activities with the “Laying of wreaths”. All disciplinary representatives were invited to pay shared respect together with other officers, domestic and international delegates.

Female sports have rarely received attention in the Gulf Province and Gulf Netball Association President Marsha Sireh is determined to make this happen behind the scenes. “At the moment we are planning to host a Corporate Dinner on August 2.” “We will be using funds raised from the event to fund our tournament and send a team to compete in Lae.” Sireh recalls her travels to the hamlets and villages, reminiscing how much the women in Gulf adore netball. "Netball is a sport played in almost all rural villages along the coast.” "Some have built their own posts out of leftover wooden logs and old wire that has been twisted into a ring.” "I can affirm that Gulf women adore the sport because I've gone to a few of the coastal settlements.” Sireh further added because there are no association or competitions based in the province, women and girls lose interest or join whatever sport is available while many are wanting to participate in the sport. “For netball’s case, we have girls who play other sport such as volleyball and basketball join us.” “We want to motivate and empower them, so we welcome them all.” “Hence our theme “To Motivate & Empower in Sport in Gulf Province.” “Netball being the favoured sport among females in PNG, we want to drive positive Massage for womenfolk in the province by using the sport as a tool.” Organizations who would like to partner Gulf Netball in their aspirations can contact the President Marsha Sireh on mobile: 77206436 or email: marshasireh@gmail.com.

Coca-Cola in Papua New Guinea (PNG) has announced an amazing new partnership with the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) as the Exclusive Beverage Partner for the PNG National Rugby League Competition (PNGNRLC). Rugby league is PNG’s ultimate passion, and Coca-Cola together with local bottler Coca-Cola Europacific Partners are here to make game days even better. “We're ecstatic to join forces with PNGRFL and bring some extra fizz to every game,” said Coca-Cola Papua New Guinea Senior Brand Manager Rachel Nainggolan, expressing her joy to join forces with the PNGRFL. “Rugby league in PNG isn't just a sport, it's a celebration. And we want every celebration to be as memorable and as refreshing as possible.” Hopefully, into next year and beyond, Coca-Cola will be the preferred beverage at all Digicel ExxonMobil Cup games. It will feature a wide selection of ready-to-drink, non-alcoholic drinks, exclusive pouring, selling, and sampling rights, as well as a ton of amazing activations. Head of Brand & Channel at local bottler Coca-Cola Europacific Partners PNG Gabriel Manoi stated that, “Coca-Cola will be spreading the cheer on every match day, quenching your thirst, and creating unforgettable experiences. Watching your favorite teams play just got a whole lot better! Get ready to spot our vibrant Coca-Cola signage all over playing venues, reminding everyone that we're all in this together. Our presence at these games is all about supporting what Papua New Guineans love most — rugby league.” Coca-Cola plans to put on a lavish show with exclusive hospitality benefits, such as corporate boxes in Port Moresby and Lae and free general admission tickets for every game. “Coca-Cola has you covered whether you want to watch the game in style or just cheer from the stands.” “This partnership is set to bring new energy and excitement to the sport we love,” says Stanley Hondina, CEO of PNGRFL. “Coca-Cola’s involvement will make every game a community celebration.” The partnership begins with a one-year agreement, with the potential for future extensions. Both Coca-Cola and PNGRFL are already planning bright futures together, filled with fun activities and surprises for the fans. This means more fun, more excitement, and a whole lot more refreshing moments for everyone involved.