The PNG Chiefs have strengthened their coaching ranks ahead of their inaugural campaign, announcing the appointment of former NRL star Luke Burt as Assistant Coach from November 2027.
Burt joins the club with an impressive rugby league résumé, highlighted by a distinguished 14-year playing career with the Parramatta Eels.
During his time at the Eels, he made 264 appearances and scored 124 tries, cementing his place as the club’s all-time leading try-scorer. He also featured in Parramatta’s Grand Final campaigns in 2001 and 2009.
Widely regarded as one of the game’s most reliable goal-kickers during his playing days, Burt will also take on responsibilities as the Chiefs’ goal-kicking coach.
Since retiring from professional football, Burt has built a strong coaching career. He previously held coaching roles with the Parramatta Eels and the Gold Coast Titans, including a stint as interim head coach in 2019. In 2020, he joined the Burleigh Bears before being elevated to Head Coach ahead of the 2023 season.
Under Burt’s leadership, the Bears enjoyed immediate success, securing the Minor Premiership and reaching the Grand Final in his first season in charge before winning the premiership the following year.
PNG Chiefs General Manager of Football Michael Chammas welcomed the appointment, describing Burt as a key addition to the club’s long-term plans.
“He had an exceptional career as a player, but what excites us the most is what he has done as a coach,” Chammas said.
“He has shown he can develop players and build a winning culture through what he has done at the Burleigh Bears.”
Chammas also revealed that Burt and his partner, Madelin, recently visited Papua New Guinea and were enthusiastic about joining the club’s journey.
“Luke and his partner Madelin visited PNG recently and absolutely loved their time in the country. They are excited about the opportunity to build something special with the Chiefs alongside our head coach, Willie Peters,” he said.
The appointment marks another major recruitment win for the PNG Chiefs as the club continues laying the foundations for its anticipated entry into the competition in 2028.
