PNG Prime Minister James Marape, Chair of Australia National Rugby League Commission Mr. Peter V’landys, together with the Australian Rugby League commission directors and the new board at NFS today.
The announcement was made in Port Moresby today by Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) chair Peter V’landys and NRL CEO Andrew Abdo, alongside PNG Prime Minister James Marape.
Dib will lead a seven-member board comprising key figures from sport, business, and finance, including former PNG and Melbourne Storm star Marcus Bai, PNG Hunters chairman Stan Joyce, and investment professionals Richard Pegum and Ian Tarutia.
Also on the board are Kumul Petroleum Managing Director Wapu Sonk and Lorna McPherson representing major sponsors.
An eighth independent director will be appointed by the board at a later date, based on the skillset needed.
Dib, a seasoned rugby league administrator and entrepreneur, served as Bulldogs chairman for eight years before stepping down in 2018.
V’landys described the establishment of the PNG-based club as a milestone in both sporting and diplomatic relations.
“The importance of this franchise goes well beyond winning games of football – it is about nation-building and bringing our two countries closer together,” V’landys said.
“The new NRL club will provide a pathway for young people in PNG to follow their dreams and will help transform societal and economic outcomes.”
Prime Minister Marape echoed those sentiments, also announcing that fans will have the opportunity to vote on the team’s official name.
The entry of a PNG team into the NRL marks a significant moment for the sport’s expansion and development in the Pacific region.