Prime Minister Marape sends off PNG Hunters to Australia

Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has called on the PNG SP Hunters rugby league team to play well for the country. 

He is positive they can bring the Queensland Cup  home.

PM Marape said this yesterday (Sunday Feb 21) when farewelling the Hunters at Jackson International Airport in Port Moresby. 

The Hunters will be based in Queensland to take part in the Queensland Cup 2021 season. 

This is because of COVID-19 protocol that limits movement of players between PNG and Australia.

Prime Minister Marape said the country was proud that Hunters' management had selected and put together the best team for the Queensland Cup.

He said the entire country, PNG Rugby Football League, sponsors Kumul Petroleum, National Gaming Control Board and SP Brewery were right behind the Hunters. 

“This is a ground breaking event for us as a country to relocate one of our national franchise teams, the SP Hunters, into Queensland, Australia, " PM Marape said. 

“This is a start of a journey that can be something bigger and better for us, going into the future, as we move towards and push for the concept of PNG fielding a team in the Australian National Rugby League. 

" I urge you players to grab this opportunity." 

PM Marape said the family of sponsors would be  looking at other areas like welfare, education and life beyond sports for players. 

“Congratulations to each and every one of you," he said. 

" You play your sport, live up to your potential and represent your country as well as your family. 

"The country is totally proud of you all."

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