PNG PM Marape Welcomes Zac Lomax Signing as PNG Chiefs Move Closer to NRL Dream

 Prime Minister James Marape has welcomed Australian rugby league star Zac Lomax to the PNG Chiefs, describing the latest signing as another major milestone in Papua New Guinea’s ambition to establish its own National Rugby League (NRL) franchise.

Lomax becomes the fifth player recruited by the PNG Chiefs, with Mr Marape saying the commitment from an international-calibre player shows growing confidence in the club’s vision to build a successful team that will represent Papua New Guinea on the world stage.

PNG PM Marape Welcomes Zac Lomax Signing as PNG Chiefs Move Closer to NRL Dream

The Prime Minister said Lomax’s decision to join the franchise was more than just a sporting announcement, as it reflected the growing strength and appeal of the PNG Chiefs project ahead of the country’s expected entry into the NRL.

“I warmly welcome Zac Lomax into the PNG Chiefs family and, indeed, into the Papua New Guinea family,” Mr Marape said.

“Zac becomes Chiefs Player No. 005, joining an exciting group of elite players who have committed themselves to helping build a successful franchise and a lasting legacy for our country.”

Mr Marape described Lomax as one of the most talented utility backs in rugby league, highlighting his ability to play centre, wing, fullback and five-eighth.

He said the Australian representative’s experience, professionalism and leadership qualities would provide valuable strength to the developing PNG Chiefs squad.

“He is one of the finest utility backs in rugby league today. Equally at home at centre, wing, fullback and five-eighth, Zac is a world-class player whose experience, professionalism and leadership will strengthen our squad both on and off the field,” he said.

Lomax has represented both the Australian Kangaroos and the New South Wales Blues, building a reputation as one of Australia’s leading rugby league players.

Mr Marape said the signing represented a wider national vision, with the PNG Chiefs expected to become a symbol of unity and inspiration for Papua New Guineans across the country.

“We are not simply building a rugby league team. We are building a national movement that has the power to unite our people and inspire a generation of young Papua New Guineans,” he said.

The Prime Minister said rugby league had played a unique role in bringing together people from different provinces, cultures and language groups.

“Papua New Guinea is home to more than 800 languages, making it the world’s most linguistically diverse nation. Yet despite our diversity, rugby league has always united our people like nothing else,” he said.

“The PNG Chiefs represent far more than football. They represent our shared national identity and our aspiration of One Team. One People. One Nation. One Country.”

Mr Marape also said the arrival of international players, officials, supporters and media through the PNG Chiefs would create opportunities beyond the football field.

He said the club had the potential to promote Papua New Guinea’s tourism industry, encourage business activity and showcase the country’s natural beauty and cultural diversity to the world.

“As international players, officials, supporters and media travel to Papua New Guinea, they will experience our country’s spectacular natural beauty, our unique cultures and the warmth and hospitality of our people,” he said.

“We expect the PNG Chiefs to attract more visitors, stimulate domestic tourism, create business opportunities and elevate Papua New Guinea’s profile on the global stage.”

The Prime Minister also acknowledged the families and supporters behind the players joining the new franchise, saying their encouragement was an important part of building the club’s foundation.

“It has been wonderful to see our new players embracing Papua New Guinea together with their families,” Mr Marape said.

“I acknowledge Zac’s parents, his fiancée, his management team and everyone who has supported him throughout his career.”

Mr Marape said the greatest contribution from the PNG Chiefs players would be measured not only by their performances but also by the inspiration they provide to young Papua New Guineans.

“The greatest legacy of our players will not simply be the matches they win, but the lives they inspire.

“On behalf of the Government and the people of Papua New Guinea, I warmly welcome Zac Lomax to our country and to the PNG Chiefs family.”