This event aimed to bring together men and women from around Papua New Guinea and the wider Pacific region to participate in sport-oriented community building and engagement through a dynamic and exciting new Rugby League competition.

The Rugby League Carnival comprised 24 teams; 12 mens and 12 womens, playing in safe and supported environment for the coveted Hevea Cup. Each competing team received custom-design kit for all players, trainers and coaches; coaching workshops with former NRL & Kumul player and Orchids Head Coach David Westley and PNGRFL registration for all players.

Our sponsors and collaborators created a two-day program of events for athletes and attendees to participate in – to watch a fast-paced and exciting comp and join in a number of workshops, stalls, special meet-and-greet opportunities with members of the PNG Palais, Hunters and Orchids Rugby League teams, and a junior fair for the children.

In parallel with the Rugby League Carnival, Grass Skirt Project hosted a Wellness Expo. We partnered with 20 non-profit, NGO and community organisations who exhibited over two days as part of our Hevea Passport Initiative. We invited participants from around Papua New Guinea and the world to come together and share their messages around women’s training, family and domestic violence, sexual and reproductive health, hygiene, mental health, relationship counselling, Cancer screening, nutrition, sustainability and more. Scroll down to find out more about our partnering organisations and International Women’s Day.

Hevea Passport participants visited exhibitor stalls to receive at least 10 passport stamps to go into the draw for a chance at over K30,000 in prizes from Brian Bell Home Centres with 10 lucky winners announced before the Rugby League Carnival finals matches.

Grass Skirt Project would like to thank all of our attendees, participating organisations, corporate partners and sponsors. Special thanks to our 2019 Hevea Cup teams who played with respect, passion & enthusiasm! Congratulations to our winners.