It was a brief but meaningful encounter along the Highlands Highway when two teams with very different missions crossed paths—one walking to honour the country, the other chasing victory on the field. As the PNG Defence Force (PNGDF) soldiers continued their Independence Walk from Mutzing Station on Day 8, they were met by the Snax Tigers rugby league team, who were making their way to Goroka for Sunday’s game. The Tigers didn’t just pass by—they stopped and shared a gesture of support, handing out biscuits to the soldiers before continuing on their journey. Captain Kispe Nerre, who leads the walking team, was grateful. “It might seem small, but gestures like this lift our spirits. We thank the Snax Tigers for stopping by and wish them the best in their game against the Goroka Lahanis,” he said. The PNGDF Independence Walk is a patriotic trek to Port Moresby, honouring 50 years of the Force’s service and sacrifice.