The Paul Barrière Trophy has toured the highlands, islands and parts of mainland PNG, all within three weeks as part of the Oil Search sponsored Rugby League World Cup 2017 PNG Trophy Tour.
It has visited villages, schools, offices, sporting fields and public places, and has been seen and touched by people from all walks of life.
It was no different when the Trophy was on Lihir Island and Kavieng town in New Ireland Province last week.
Welcoming the trophy to Zuen Christian Academy, former junior Kumul, July Totsik, said bringing the Paul Barriere Trophy will certainly inspire future rugby league stars in PNG.
Totsik said sports is one thing that can unite a nation and keep youths away from trouble, sentiments echoed by many on the tour so far.
He also thanked Oil Search Limited for taking the Paul Barriere Trophy around the country, adding that they were privileged to have the prestigious trophy at their school.
Totsik also thanked Newcrest Mining Lihir, who partnered with Oil Search to bring the Paul Barriere Trophy to Lihir Island, adding that such gestures were appreciated by the community.
He said it also reinforces Newcrest community partnership initiative under the theme – Trupla Man, Trupla Meri.
This similar message was repeated by Newcrest Mining’s general manager for mining, Lawrence Manjenwa.
Manjenwa, when addressing the community at Londolovit town, said sports is an important tool that can be used to foster goodwill in the communities.
He said Newcrest was happy to partner with Oil Search and bring the trophy to the people of Lihir Island.
The trophy has since been to Morobe, Eastern Highlands, Hela, Southern Highlands and East New Britain.
Oil Search executive general manager for stakeholder engagement, Leon Buskens, said Oil Search was happy to be bringing the trophy to the people, and connecting them to the World Cup.
Oil Search thanked Newcrest Mining for partnering them on the New Ireland leg of the tour.