PNG's Eastern Highlands Set to Host Historic Hunters Trial in Goroka

PNG rugby league is returning to the Eastern Highlands in a big way, with Goroka preparing to host a Queensland Hostplus Cup trial match between the PNG SP Hunters and Australia’s Ipswich Jets on February 22, 2026.

 PNG Eastern Highlands Set to Host Historic Hunters Trial in Goroka / Photo credit : Hunters Media

The match, scheduled for the National Sports Institute, is expected to be the biggest sporting attraction in the province this year and marks the first time in 13 years that Eastern Highlands will host a game involving the Hunters since their entry into the Queensland Cup in 2014.

Provincial authorities say the event reflects Eastern Highlands’ growing reputation as a capable host of national and international rugby league fixtures, following successful staging of the National Youth Competition grand final and NRL Bid matches for both men and women last year.

Local rugby league history will also be in focus, with former Goroka Bintangor Lahanis players Gonzela Urakusie, Thompson Tete, Noel Zeming and Adex Wera recognised as pioneers who helped form the original PNG SP Hunters squad.

Fans from across the Upper Highlands and Momase regions are expected to travel into Goroka, providing a boost to local businesses and accommodation providers.

Lahanis Team Manager Benji Filele said the behaviour of supporters would be closely watched, adding that a positive atmosphere could open the door for more high-level matches in the future, saying, “If we turn up in numbers and show discipline, Goroka can host more Hunters home games.”