In this bulletin:
1. RUGBY LEAGUE — Reciprocal visa confirmed ahead of the PNG Chiefs’ entry into NRL
2. RUGBY LEAGUE — Laurie Daley supports PNG Chiefs’ entry in 2028
3. RUGBY — Fijian Drua and Blues to honour Joeli Vidiri with memorial trophy
4. RUGBY — Many missed opportunities: Fijian Drua coach
5. RUGBY — Lomani eyes breakthrough away wins for Fijian Drua
6. RUGBY — Moana Pasifika fall to Crusaders – Moana Pasifika
7. RUGBY — From no contract to Super Rugby: Joel Lam grabs Moana Pasifika chance with both hands
8. ATHLETICS — Cook Islands triathletes win medals
9. TAEKWONDO — Vanuatu Youth leads Taekwondo push on international stage
10. TRIATHLON — Palau’s Young Professionals Step Up to Support Oceania’s Next Generation of Triathletes
11. RUGBY — Slipper’s day ends in elation as Brumbies beat Chiefs
PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS: Mon 23 Mar 2026
Reciprocal visa confirmed ahead of the PNG Chiefs’ entry into NRL
PORT MORESBY, 23 MARCH 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—The Papua New Guinea Government has announced a specialised visa product to streamline travel for fans, players, and officials ahead of the PNG Chiefs’ entry into the National Rugby League (NRL) in 2028.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Lands and Immigration John Rosso (pictured) has announced that the facility mirrors Australia’s landmark commitment to slash visa fees for Papua New Guineans travelling Down Under to support the Chiefs.
“In the spirit of reciprocity and rugby league diplomacy, Papua New Guinea will implement a matching visa arrangement to welcome Australian supporters and sporting professionals under simplified conditions. This is a win-win for both nations,” Rosso said.
The deputy prime minister met with Australian home affairs minister Tony Burke on Feb 18 to discuss immigration matters, including the NRL visa framework.
Rosso explained that the specialised permit will cost K75 (AUD$25), significantly lower than standard visitor visa rates, and will be valid for 12 months with multiple entries of up to 30 days each.
“This will allow fans to travel back and forth for home and away games throughout the NRL season, including pre-season and finals,” Rosso said.
“It is exclusively available to players, coaching staff, officials, accredited media, and bona fide NRL fans,” Rosso said.
He added that the arrangement will boost tourism and economic activity in both countries, driving demand for airline tickets, hotels, hire vehicles, restaurants, retail, and other services.
Rosso also reminded travellers that since Oct 1 last year, all visitors entering Papua New Guinea must complete the PNG Digital Arrival Card at least 72 hours before arrival to ensure smooth entry at the Jackson International Airport…..PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS: Mon 23 Mar 2026
Laurie Daley supports PNG Chiefs’ entry in 2028
SYDNEY, 23 MARCH 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—New South Wales Blues coach Laurie Daley is currently not interested in coaching a National Rugby League (NRL) team.
Daley told The National at the NSW Rugby League Centre of Excellence in Sydney that his current focus was on building a NSW Blues team for this year’s State of Origin series.
Queensland won the 2025 men’s State of Origin series 2-1, defeating the Blues 24-12 in a dramatic Game 3 decider in Sydney.
Daley said though he was not interested in an NRL job, he was excited about the PNG Chiefs entering the competition in 2028.
“Career coaching is not my path forward, (though) I enjoy coaching,” Daley said.
“But I reckon whoever puts their hand up to coach the PNG Chiefs will love the opportunity and playing in a rugby league-made nation will be a great job to get.
“But I certainly won’t be applying. I wouldn’t be applying for any NRL job.”
The Canberra Raiders great said the Chiefs should appoint someone who was passionate about the game in PNG
“We’re all excited. We’re happy for the country, we’re happy for the nation because we know how popular rugby league is over there,” he said.
“And I think whatever coach you’ll get, you’ll get a guy who is passionate about helping your nation, helping your country.
“It wouldn’t surprise me if they (Chiefs) have success right away,” he said….PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 23 Mar 2026
Fijian Drua and Blues to honour Joeli Vidiri with memorial trophy
AUCKLAMD, 23 MARCH 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC) —Former dual rugby international, the late Joeli Vidiri, will be honoured in a new memorial challenge between the Fijian Drua and the Auckland Blues.
The Blues have confirmed that they, in partnership with the Drua, have agreed to introduce the Joeli Vidiri Memorial Trophy, which will be up for grabs for the first time when the two franchise clubs meet at Eden Park on Saturday.
In a statement sent to RNZ Pacific, the Blues said the special memorial game will honour the late Vidiri, who played first for the Flying Fijians before becoming an All Black in the 90s.
He made his mark with the Blues between 1996 and 2001, playing 61 games and scoring 43 tries.
He left the team in 2011 following serious kidney illness and died in 2022.
“The Joeli Vidiri Memorial Trophy will be contested every time the Blues and Fijian Drua meet, as a tribute to one of rugby’s most electrifying and beloved figures, and a player whose impact transcended borders and united communities across the Pacific,” the club said.
“Vidiri, remembered for his powerful running, humility, and infectious joy, made an indelible mark during his time in Auckland while remaining deeply connected to his Fijian roots,” the franchise said.
“The new trophy recognises his unique role in bridging two proud rugby nations.
“The trophy itself has been thoughtfully designed to reflect this shared heritage, incorporating symbolic elements that pay tribute to both regions.
“As part of the inaugural presentation, the Vidiri family will play a central role in match-day proceedings, with a special on-field moment planned to award the trophy.”
Vidiri studied at Queen Victoria School in Fiji and was a champion sprinter in his senior years at the school.
He played for both the Fijian sevens team and the Flying Fijians, before arriving in New Zealand and teaming up with Counties Manukau, and played 71 matches for the side in the New Zealand Provincial Championship.
His rugby career was cut short when he was diagnosed with a kidney illness in 2001 and placed on dialysis treatment, like his fellow Auckland Blues winger Jonah Lomu….PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FIJI SUN PACNEWS: Mon 23 Mar 2026
Many missed opportunities: Fijian Drua coach
LAUROKA, 23 MARCH 2026 (FIJI SUN) —The Fijian Drua missed several scoring opportunities as they went down 6–21 to the Queensland Reds at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
Head coach Glen Jackson said his side failed to capitalise on their chances.
“Probably four missed opportunities in the first half, but at halftime there was no panic,” Jackson said.
“I thought we could come back — they were under a warning.
“We got a person in the sin bin, and then unfortunately we just didn’t play like we have been playing. There was a bit of fatigue from the players.
“We just didn’t hang on to the ball. Again, I think we created enough opportunities to win the game.”
The win marked the Reds’ first victory in Fiji against the Drua.
Drua first five-eighth Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula kicked two penalties in the 13th and 30th minutes, as the Reds held a narrow 7–6 lead at halftime.
The Queenslanders ran in two unanswered converted tries in the second half through Harry McLaughlin-Philips and Richie Asiata, after Kalani Thomas opened their account.
Queensland Reds captain Harry Wilson said, keeping the Fijian Drua try-less in their 21-6 SSuper Rugby Pacific win in Lautoka is ‘really special’.
The tough No.8 said the players stood for each other as they really wanted a win to celebrate full-back Jock Campbell’s 100th Super Rugby match for the Reds.
The visitors played together as a unit and their tough defensive line was what frustrated the Drua, as they continued to make basic mistakes throughout the game.
The hosts took the lead in the 11th minute from Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula kicked over a penalty after Reds lock Lukhan Salakaia-Loto was penalised for being offside.
The Reds defence led by winger Filipo Daugunu connected with their one-on-one tackles.
A fumble by Ravula in the 24th minute saw Daugunu set-up a move that resulted in halfback Kalani Thomas scoring their first under the post.
Harry McLaughlin-Philips added the extras for a 7-3 lead.
In the 28th minute Salakaia-Loto was again penalised for offside and Ravula again kicked it over to narrow the gap 7-6.
In the second half it was all Reds with converted tries to McLaughlin-Philips and Richie Asiata.
A disappointed Drua captain Frank Lomani said what let them down was their failure to finish off their moves. He was referring to the fumble made by full-back Ilaisa Droasese with the try-line in front of him….PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FBC PORTS PACNEWS: Mon 23 Mar 2026
Lomani eyes breakthrough away wins for Fijian Drua
NADI, 23 MARCH 2026 ( FBC SPORTS)— Fijian Drua are bracing for a tough stretch on the road, with back-to-back away clashes against the Blues and Crusaders looming in the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season.
The side has struggled to secure victories away from home, and captain Frank Lomani admits it remains a major focus heading into the upcoming fixtures.
Lomani says the challenge of winning on the road is one the team is determined to overcome.
“It’s a bigger challenge. We haven’t won a game away, and that is a big challenge for us to go to Auckland and put on a show there.”
He adds that preparation will be key if the Drua are to turn their away form around.
“We want to go there and win games, so to win games it takes prep. We’ve got to make sure that we train well.”
Lomani acknowledges the team’s struggles away from home but believes the group is ready to change that narrative.
“We haven’t won an away game in a very long time, so that is the aim.”
The Drua will be looking to carry momentum into their matches against the Blues and Crusaders as they aim to break their away drought.
Meanwhile, Fijian Drua captain Frank Lomani has expressed his gratitude to fans following the team’s loss to the Reds, acknowledging their strong support despite the disappointing result.
The Drua were unable to deliver the performance they had hoped for, but still drew a passionate crowd who turned out in wet conditions to back the side.
Lomani says the support did not go unnoticed by the players.
“We can’t thank our fans enough for showing up today. It wasn’t the result or the show we wanted them to be or expected.”
He added that the team deeply appreciates the commitment shown by supporters.
“We just want to thank them for showing up, especially in the rain.”
The Drua will now look to regroup as they prepare for their upcoming away fixtures in the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season…..PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: MOANA PASIFIKA PACNEWS: Mon 23 Mar 2026
Moana Pasifika fall to Crusaders – Moana Pasifika
SUVA, 23 MARCH 2025 ( MOANA PASIFIKA)—Moana Pasifika went down to the Crusaders 50-21 when they hosted them at North Harbour Stadium on Saturday night.
The atmosphere was electric with a sea of blue flags flying high, and loud cheers echoing across the stadium.
Moana Pasifika showed what they’re capable of in the first 40 minutes, but lost momentum and their fire power in the second half.
The Crusaders got off to a strong start with two early tries to Braydon Ennor and Sevu Reece, showing their championship quality. Moana Pasifika answered back with two tries thanks to some dazzling attacking flair.
Tevita Ofa crossed the line for Moana’s first try, after coming off the bench in the first few minutes to replace an injured Julian Savea. His try was off the back of a powerful carry from captain Miracle Faiilagi, who played with tenacity all night.
The second try came off a breakthrough from Lalomilo Lalomilo, as his shrugged off Crusaders defenders to set up a memorable first Super Rugby try for Joel Lam.
Lam who was playing against his former team, had a tremendous individual performance and made 13 tackles showing his excellent defensive skills.
Moana Pasifika showed discipline in the first half, holding on to possession and competing hard. Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa was dangerous, winning ball and creating opportunities, while Lalomilo was another standout with his formidable runs.
In the second half, the visitors came out firing and did not back down for the rest of the encounter. They scored five unanswered tries in the second half and gained control of the match.
Moana Pasifika will go back to the drawing board, and shift their focus to their next match against the Highlanders at home on Friday night. ….PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: PMN PACNEWS: Mon 23 Mar 2026
From no contract to Super Rugby: Joel Lam grabs Moana Pasifika chance with both hands
AUCKLAND, 23 MARCH 2026 (PMN)—A year ago, Joel Lam had no contract and no clear path. Now he’s running out in Super Rugby for Moana Pasifika, and making the most of it.
The 23-year-old halfback from Christchurch arrived in Auckland on a short-term preseason deal with Moana, with no guarantees beyond a few weeks. That was enough.
“It’s been pretty cool,” he told Pacific Huddle. “I got pulled in on a player interim contract for the preseason block for seven weeks.
“I managed to secure myself a few more weeks after the preseason, now into the season.”
That progress has already delivered a moment many players wait years for – his first appearance at Eden Park, a venue Lam had not previously played at, despite being involved with Manu Sāmoa last year.
“Pretty cool. I’ve never played there before… I’ve always wanted to play there.”
Lam’s rise is a sharp turnaround from 2025 when he was without a contract and switching between both rugby union and rugby league to stay in the game.
He played for Hornby Panthers in Christchurch before heading to Brisbane, joining the Souths Logan Magpies.
There, he played in the Brisbane Rugby League competition and trained with Queensland Cup players, building his game the hard way.
Then a call-up that changed everything. “I got a call from Manu Sāmoa and then shifted my stuff back out of my room after two months living there and I was back on tour.”
Lam says his return to rugby union and involvement with Moana Pasifika came after earlier contact within the Crusaders system, and an opportunity developed once he was back playing the code.
That experience helped reconnect Lam with his Sāmoan roots, something that now shapes his journey with Moana Pasifika.
Joel Lam thanks the fans on Facebook after the loss to the Blues at Eden Park.
He comes from a large aiga with more than 300 family members and says that connection keeps him grounded.
“Yeah, there is a good chunk of us 350-plus. There’s a lot of us in our aiga, which is pretty cool and special to me.”
His time with Manu Sāmoa also brought him closer to family on the field, linking with cousin and former captain Jack Lam.
“Being exposed to Sāmoa has led me down the path of reconnecting with the Lam side of my family.”
Back in union, Lam’s chance with Moana Pasifika grew from earlier links within the Crusaders system. But it’s the environment in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland that has helped him settle quickly.
“As soon as I stepped in the door, I just felt welcomed. Definitely feels like home here.”
There’s also been growth in his game. His stint in rugby league added an edge, physically and mentally.
“It’s like an arm wrestle, one mistake genuinely costs points,” he says. “It gave me some balls haha… being able to defend and attack in different ways.”
He credits head coach Fa’alogo Tana Umaga and the Moana Pasifika environment for easing his transition to Auckland.
Like many young players from Christchurch, Lam came through St Andrew’s College, following a path similar to All Blacks star Richie Mo’unga. “He inspired me to do what he did, especially going to the same school.”
Now, Lam is carving out his own story, one built on patience, movement across codes, and taking chances when they come.
He says his approach remains consistent regardless of role, with defence a key focus. “I always thrive off my energy. If I’m making fewer tackles in the game, it means my team is doing the right work.”
From no contract to a Super Rugby squad, his rise will resonate across the Pacific game, where opportunity is often earned the hard way…..PACNEWS
COOKS – ATHLETICS: COOK ISLANDS NEWS PACNEWS: Mon 23 Mar 2026
Cook Islands triathletes win medals
RAROTONGA, 23 MARCH 2026 (COOK ISLANDS NEWS)—Cook Islands triathletes Dave Robati and Olivia Postrzygacz will be returning home with a medal each after successfully competing at the Oceania Triathlon event in Palau.
Cook Islands Triathlon Association states: “Congratulations to our two amazing athletes Dave Robati, silver in the elite Men and Olivia Postrzygacz bronze in the elite woman.
“A truly fantastic performance from the smallest nation with the smallest team.
“Meitaki maata to all the people that made this possible, all of the messages of support from home. Meitaki maata Oceania Triathlon and your team.”
CISNOC in a statement last night congratulated the triathletes, “Against strong competition from across the region, our athletes delivered performances that truly reflect the spirit, resilience, and pride of our nation”
CISNOC said the small but mighty team competed on the international stage, proving that heart and determination go a long way.
“Meitaki maata to everyone behind the scenes — coaches, supporters, families, and our wider Cook Islands community for your continued encouragement. Your support fuels these achievements.
“We also acknowledge Oceania Triathlon and the Palau Triathlon Association for delivering a fantastic event and bringing our region together through sport.”…PACNEWS
VAN – TAEKWONDO: VANUATU DAILY POST PACNEWS: Mon 23 Mar 2026
Vanuatu Youth leads Taekwondo push on international stage
PORT VILA, 23 MARCH 2026 (VANUATU DAILY POST)—A new generation of athletes is at the forefront of Vanuatu’s taekwondo ambitions, as the national federation shifts its focus toward youth development and international exposure through key competitions in 2026.
The Oceania Taekwondo Championships in Sydney, Australia, starting next week will serve as an important testing ground for both emerging and established fighters.
Leading the charge are junior athletes Rosana Tes (U-49kg) and Gama Tom (under-68kg), who are already in Australia with coach Kalfau Holmes Kalotrip as they prepare to compete on the opening day of the tournament.
Their early arrival reflects a growing emphasis on preparation and high-performance training, with the federation prioritizing long-term athlete development.
Senior fighters Clement Onggosanusi (U-58kg) and James Pita (under-63kg) will join the team on March 26, aiming to make their mark when they compete for medals on 29 March.
Their participation adds experience and depth to the squad, balancing the youthful energy of the junior team.
Beyond the Oceania Championships, the spotlight remains firmly on the future.
Tes and fellow junior Kama Tom have been identified as key prospects for the 2026 Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, scheduled for 31 October.
The event, designed for athletes aged 15 to 17, represents a major milestone in their sporting careers.
Federation officials said the dual focus on immediate competition and long-term development is central to their strategy, as Vanuatu continues to build a stronger presence in international taekwondo…..PACNEWS
PALAU – TRIATHLON: ISLAND TIMES PACNEWS: Mon 23 Mar 2026
Palau’s Young Professionals Step Up to Support Oceania’s Next Generation of Triathletes
KOROR, 23 MARCH 2026 (ISLAND TIMES)—-As Palau prepares to host the upcoming Oceania Triathlon Development Cup, the spotlight is not only on visiting elite athletes — but also on a new generation of Palauan sports professionals who are giving back to the region.
On 18 March, local Exercise Physiologist “UB” (Ubi Misech) led a key session on injury prevention, emphasiSing the critical role of proper warm-up and cool-down routines in athlete performance and longevity. Her presentation was part of the Oceania Triathlon Regional Development Camp, in Palau last week.
The camp brings together athletes and officials from across the Pacific, including representatives from:
● Belau Triathlon Federation
● Cook Islands Triathlon Association
● Guam Triathlon Federation
● Triathlon Samoa
● NMI Triathlon Federation
The programme is further strengthened by the presence of high-performance coaches and technical officials from:
● AusTriathlon
● Triathlon New Zealand
● PNG Triathlon National Development Program
From Athletes to Leaders
UB represents a growing movement of Palauan athletes who have transitioned into professional roles in sports science, coaching, and athlete development. Their return to support regional programming reflects Palau’s deepening contribution to the Oceania sporting community — not just as a host nation, but as a knowledge hub.
Camp participants are undergoing an intensive week of training, including:
● Swim, bike, and run technique development
● Strength and conditioning sessions
● Nutrition and performance education
● Race preparation and transition skills
These sessions are designed to prepare athletes for high-level competition — including the Oceania Triathlon Development Cup this Saturday.
Building the Future of Pacific Sport
The Regional Development Camp highlights the power of collaboration across island nations, with Palau playing a central role in fostering athlete growth, sharing expertise, and strengthening regional ties.
As the week progresses toward race day, the impact is already clear:
Palau is not only hosting world-class events — it is helping build world-class athletes. ….PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY: AAP PACNEWS: Mon 23 Mar 2026
Slipper’s day ends in elation as Brumbies beat Chiefs
CANBERRA, 23 MARCH 2206 (RUGBY)—-The ACT Brumbies have celebrated James Slipper’s milestone match in thrilling fashion, roaring back to defeat the Chiefs 33-24.
Slipper became the most-capped Super Rugby player of all time at GIO Stadium on Friday night, reaching 203 caps to move clear of former All Black Wyatt Crockett (202).
It’s a significant milestone for the prop, who debuted for the Queensland Reds in 2010 and featured 151 times for the Wallabies, before announcing his retirement from international level last year.
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Wearing a new jersey with a golden No.1 on his back, Slipper registered five tackles and 12 metres in 53 minutes on the night.
But it was the typically inspirational All Black Damian McKenzie (one try, 25 passes, 70 metres) who threatened to overshadow the 36-year-old’s night as he led his team to a 17-point advantage with 24 minutes remaining.
The Brumbies then flicked a switch, scoring three tries in just over 10 minutes, before speedster Corey Toole ran the length of the field in the 79th minute to secure victory.
It came after McKenzie missed a penalty goal, which would have put the visitors back in front with less than five minutes remaining.
“The ones where you don’t win and you’ve got a milestone just don’t feel the same. It was great to see the boys play the way they did in that second half,” Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham said.
“Everyone was screaming to run, and then he (Toole) almost got chased down by McKenzie.
“We’ve had a couple of those (close wins) this year, and it builds confidence.”
Victory is a modicum of revenge after the Brumbies were dumped out of last year’s semi-finals by the Chiefs 37-17.
It will also be a welcome relief for Larkham, having lost their past two clashes and sacrificing top spot on the Super Rugby Pacific ladder.
“I definitely feel like we could have won the game tonight … so we’ve got to be better there,” Chiefs captain Luke Jacobson said.
“I’m pretty frustrated. We just weren’t able to build enough continuity in our attack.”
After Slipper received a guard of honour from both teams before the match, the Brumbies started hot, with Hudson Creighton crashing over the line in the fourth minute.
The Chiefs responded as winger Liam Coombes-Fabling crossed twice to help the visitors lead 17-7 at halftime.
The Chiefs’ advantage grew to 17 points after McKenzie found himself on the receiving end of some slick passing down the left flank in the 56th minute.
The Brumbies immediately answered when captain Ryan Lonergan scooped up a loose ball and flopped over the line, before Charlie Cale added another five-pointer to his season’s tally when he picked up the ball from the ruck and scored.
The Chiefs desperately searched for a winner, but Toole snatched an intercept and ran from one end to the other to seal victory……PACNEWS