Prime Minister Hon. James Marape has extended the Government’s gratitude to outgoing PNG NRL CEO Andrew Hill for his outstanding contribution to Papua New Guinea’s historic push for inclusion in the National Rugby League (NRL).

Mr Hill, who has stepped down from his role to take up the position of Chief Executive of the Penrith Panthers Group, has been instrumental in guiding the PNG NRL Bid through its formative stages. His tenure saw the establishment of the new Franchise Board, operational structures, and a strategic roadmap to ensure PNG’s first-ever NRL club becomes a reality.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Papua New Guinea, I thank Andrew Hill for his dedication, professionalism, and unwavering commitment to our vision of becoming the first Pacific nation with a team in the NRL,” Prime Minister Marape said.

“Andrew brought with him a wealth of international rugby league experience, and under his leadership the PNG NRL Bid is now strongly positioned for the next phase. He worked closely with our people, showed respect for our culture, and left behind a framework that we can confidently build upon.”

The Prime Minister also reflected on the history of PNG’s NRL dream:

“Our country’s aspiration to participate in the NRL goes back as far as 2008, when the late Sir Michael Somare’s government allocated K20 million to begin the process. That effort unfortunately stalled until we revived discussions in 2019 when my government took office. From that point, Andrew Hill became an integral part of the journey, working tirelessly as CEO of the bid and interim CEO of our NRL team.

“He worked closely with our NRL Bid Chairman, Wapu Sonk, and the team, and under his guidance our franchise structure was approved. He was instrumental in putting together the governance and business framework, ensuring our preparations stayed on track. For that, we are deeply grateful.”

Mr Hill, who previously held senior leadership roles with the Parramatta Eels, GWS Giants, Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, and served as CEO of the 2017 Rugby League World Cup, joined the PNG NRL Bid in May 2022. During his time in Papua New Guinea, he became a familiar figure to rugby league fans and communities, often praising the warmth, passion, and pride of the PNG people.

Prime Minister Marape commended his new appointment:

“This is a big appointment for Andrew as CEO of the Panthers Group, one of the most successful clubs and business organisations in rugby league. It shows that Papua New Guinea had one of the best sports administrators working with us. While it is sad that we are losing him, we also gain a valuable friend in one of the world’s leading rugby league organisations. He has assured me that in his new capacity he will continue to look out for us and offer support where he can.”

Mr Hill had personally consulted the Prime Minister before accepting the role:

“He asked me, out of fairness, whether he should accept the offer. I told him that given our structures are now in place, and knowing the sacrifices he has made away from his family these past years, he should take the role and return closer to his wife and family. He goes with my full blessings. We will continue to work with him and strengthen our rapport with the Penrith Panthers and the wider NRL community.”

Prime Minister Marape also highlighted the progress of the bid:

“Our board is now fully functional, and we are in the process of finalising our team name, building our centre of excellence, and preparing our business and playing structures. We are on course for PNG to proudly run onto the field in 2028. The foundation laid by Andrew Hill is part of that success, and his contribution will always be remembered.”

In closing, Prime Minister Marape reaffirmed the Government’s full commitment:

“Papua New Guinea is a rugby league nation. This bid is not just about sport, but about national pride, youth development, and creating opportunities for our people. We remain committed to seeing this project through to the end. Andrew Hill will always be part of our story, and we thank him sincerely for his service to PNG.”