On Sunday 25 September 2011, the Australian Prime Minster's XIII will play the PNG Kumuls as part of a three-day visit to highlight the strong partnership between the two countries and deliver critical health and social messages to the local community.
Queensland State of Origin Coach, Mal Meninga will coach the PM's XIII team captained by Parramatta Eels star Nathan Hindmarsh. The PM's XIII will also feature a host of NRL stars including Matt Bowen (Cowboys), Mitchell Pearce (Roosters), David Shillington (Raiders), and Ben Barba (Bulldogs).
This year's event will bring the Australian Prime Minister's XIII and PNG Kumuls together to deliver an important message to PNG communities: that is, that violence against women is unacceptable. All players who are participating from both nations are united in this message.
Australia's High Commissioner Ian Kemish believes the match can focus attention on social issues confronting PNG and start the process towards change within the country.
'There are social issues confronting all developing nations and we want to highlight these issues and bring about social change. It's a matter of educating the community that behaviour such as violence towards women should not be tolerated in any society and the Prime Minister's XIII game is the perfect platform to deliver that message to the PNG community,' said Mr Kemish.
The seventh annual Prime Minister's XIII match will be played at the Lae Rugby League Ground and will be the culmination of a series of activities. On Saturday 24 September 2011, the players will participate in a school coaching clinic in Lae where they will talk to children on topics including healthy lifestyles, respect for themselves and others, and playing by the rules.
The PM's XIII team has won all but one game, when there was a 24-all draw in 2007. Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard says she is looking forward to hearing the outcome of the game.
'This match promises to be a great game and I know both sides will be out to win. But regardless of the outcome, I'm sure both teams will do their countries proud.'