In this bulletin:
1. FOOTBALL — New Zealand and Fiji open Group B with big victories
2. RUGBY — O’Connor eyes Wallabies return after Force move
3. RUGBY — Force squad locked in for upcoming Super Rugby U16s carnival
4. RUGBY — Kolinisau begins Fiji 7s squad reshuffle after first trials
5. RUGBY — Bledisloe Cup quadruple-header announced as sevens added to ticket
6. RUGBY LEAGUE — Concussion lawsuits can continue, court rules, as player safety remains under scrutiny
7. RUGBY — Home grown talent joins Drua coaching staff
8. RUGBY LEAGUE — FNRL takes control of referees association, launches drive to recruit 100 officials
9. AIRBADMINTON — Cook Islands secure medals from AirBadminton championship debut
10. CHESS — 12 to represent Vanuatu at 46th Chess Olympiad
11. FOOTBALL — Vanuatu United to make home debut against Central Coast Mariners
12. GOLF — Australian WPGA Championship locks in dates for 2027
13. OLYMPIC — Vanuatu women chase Los Angeles Olympics qualification in China
14. SPORTS — Cathy Wong joins ONOC President Baklai Temengil on WADA Foundation Board
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 03 Sep 2026
New Zealand and Fiji open Group B with big victories
APIA, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (OFC) — Defending champions New Zealand have begun their OFC U-19 Men’s Championship title defence with a convincing 8-0 win over Tahiti on the opening day of Group B action at the Samoa Football HQ in Apia.
Searching for a 10th continental crown at this year’s championship in Samoa, New Zealand scored four goals in either half on their way to victory.
Nathan Martin opened the account inside the first ten minutes, sneaking an effort inside the bottom-left corner after being set-up by Bailey Fergsuon. The pick of the eight goals was the second, Aaron Cartwright cutting inside off the right flank and picking out the top-right corner of the net on his left foot.
The last meeting between the two nations had been in the semi-finals of the 2022 edition – a 2-0 win for New Zealand – but this contest proved far more one-sided. Harley Hill and Jayden Smith added to the New Zealand tally in the first half, deciding the outcome of the contest inside 45 minutes.
It was all about the substitutes after the break, Van Fitzharris coming off the bench to score two goals, and Oliver Grosso and Waisea Henry both also getting on the scoresheet to round it out.
New Zealand: 8 (Nathan MARTIN 8’, Aaron CARTWRIGHT 37’, Harley HILL 40’, Jayden SMITH 45+3’, Oliver GROSSO 60’, Van FIZTHARRIS 72’, 86’, Waisea HENRY 75’)
Tahiti: 0
HT: 4-0
Earlier in the day, Fiji came from behind to defeat Melanesian neighbours Vanuatu 7-2 at the Samoa Football HQ.
The Junior Bula Boys conceded first, but scored six second half goals, helped by a hat-trick from Ryan Naresh.
One of four players in the Fijian squad with professional experience for Bula FC in the OFC Pro League, Naresh scored all three of his goals within the space of ten minutes, the first of which arrived in the 67th minute.
He opened his account by poking the ball beyond goalkeeper Jesse Thomas after being played in-behind, then doubled his tally by pouncing on a goalkeeping error to tap into an open net. Naresh completed his hat-trick in style, calmly slotting home from close range into the bottom-right corner.
Abdullah Khairati, Ibraheem Afazal, Jovesa Uqe, and player of the match Nicholas Franklin, also featured on the scoreboard for Fiji, as they recorded their third consecutive victory over Vanuatu at U-19 level dating back to 2018.
Earlier in the match Rohan Masauvakalo had given Vanuatu the lead inside the first fifteen minutes after linking up with captain Jean Patriano Natou. That was as good as it got for them though, Jefta Taravaki adding a late consolation.
Seven goals is the most Fiji have scored in a U-19 Championship match since 2007, and puts them atop the Group A standings after one matchday alongside New Zealand, whom they will meet on Saturday. That will follow a clash between Vanuatu and Tahiti, of which the loser could face an early elimination.
Fiji: 7 (Abdullah KHAIRATI 26’, Ibraheem AFAZAL 46’, Jovesa UQE 57’, Ryan NARESH 67’, 71’, 77, Nicholas FRANKLIN 90+7’)
Vanuatu: 2 (Rohan MASAUVAKALO 15’, Jeftpa TARAVAKI 90+3’)
HT: 1-1…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 03 Sep 2026
O’Connor eyes Wallabies return after Force move
CANBERRA, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU) — James O’Connor has used a press conference to outline his desire to return to the Wallabies, admitting he hadn’t told coach Les Kiss just how much he wants to play at a home World Cup.
On Wednesday, the versatile back rejoined the Western Force on a one-year deal to mark a “full circle” moment since making his Super Rugby debut with the club as a teenager in 2008.
O’Connor says he’d be happy to play anywhere for the Perth-based outfit, including from the bench, as he believes the opportunity to play in the competition can better remind Kiss of his intention of wanting to feature in green and gold.
The move comes after fellow veteran Bernard Foley inked a deal with the NSW Waratahs as he also looks to propel himself into Kiss’ gaze ahead of next year’s World Cup.
“I’ve been speaking to ‘Kissy’. I haven’t let him know my intentions fully, but maybe he’s hearing this,” O’Connor said.
“He knows I’m hungry for it. He knows I want to be involved. So I’ll let my rugby do the talking.”
The 36-year-old would be a valuable asset to the Wallabies considering he is an experienced and quality playmaker, and would provide competition to current flyhalves Carter Gordon, Ben Donaldson and Declan Meredith.
In his first starting appearance for the national team in 2009, O’Connor scored a hat-trick of tries which established a storied career for the versatile back that saw him feature for the Wallabies in two World Cups.
Although he was axed for the 2023 World Cup squad, he made a shock return to help the Australians claim a historic victory over South Africa last year at Ellis Park and subsequently played a key role throughout the Rugby Championship.
“The plan was to call it quits in 2023 after the World Cup. I couldn’t make the World Cup and then it changed the goalpost for me,” O’Connor said.
“I was 21 when I left (the Force). Not saying I was immature but … I’ve had to develop a lot and create some other skills in my life that are useful.
“I’ve hit the mountaintop and come back down. So it hasn’t been an easy ride.
“The man I am today … I’d say is a lot more balanced, but definitely a lot more mature.”
Fresh off a season with Leicester in England’s Premiership, O’Connor returns to Super Rugby Pacific having played for the Melbourne Rebels (2012-13), Queensland Reds (2015, 2019-24) and Crusaders (2025) after leaving the Force…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 03 Sep 2026
Force squad locked in for upcoming Super Rugby U16s carnival
CANBERRA, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU) — The Western Force is excited to confirm a 39-member squad for the upcoming Super Rugby Men’s U16s, to be played in a carnival-style format on the east coast in late September and early October.
The headline of the squad is the inclusion of a dozen members of Palmyra’s triumphant RugbyWA Under-16’s premiership-winning side that saluted in Saturday’s Grand Final at Wanneroo.
The squad, which will be coached by Martin Asiata with Gavin Laycock as team manager, is made up of 32 Under-16 age group players, with an additional seven development players, who are under age but in contention to play.
Kalamunda features 10 members in the squad, with five from Mandurah Pirates and four from Nedlands. There is one member from South West Spirit in Denziel Falemaka who hails from Margaret River.
There are three members each in the development group from Southern Lions and Swan Suburbs.
Super Rugby U16 has adopted a new model for 2026 which will see the Queensland Reds, Force and Victoria squads go into camp while playing back-to-back fixtures in Canberra.
The Force, working in conjunction with RugbyWA, have teamed up for the Super Rugby U16s.
There will be no finals fixtures in Super Rugby U16, with the champion to be determined by the final competition ladder.
Western Force squad
Forwards
Brooklyn Allen (Kalamunda)
Sam Bullock (Palmyra)
Blayze Campbell (Kalamunda)
Jackson Jordan (Nedlands)
Malakai Koroitagane (Palmyra)
Whetu Mahaki (Palmyra)
Mason Nepson (Mandurah Pirates)
Phoenix Piggott-Makiiti (Kalamunda)
Anthony Punaivaha (Palmyra)
Oscar Sio (Kalamunda)
Troy Smith (Mandurah Pirates)
Devain Snyman (Nednlands)
Azarius Te Rangi Thompson (Palmyra)
Ethan Toparea (Mandurah Pirates)
Jayden Tovio Junior (Kalamunda)
Johnnie Unuwai (Kalamunda)
Kingston Vasukicakau (Palmyra)
Wiremu Waikato (Mandurah Pirates)
Johnson Williams Oka (Palmyra)
Backs
Travarn Ackerman-Fifita (Kalamunda)
Denziel Falemaka (South West Spirit)
Zyane Horsfall (Nedlands)
Eyzirie Koro (Kalamunda)
Brooklyn Palelei (Palmyra)
Jaxon Prior (Nedlands)
Stewart Rishworth (Wests Scarborough)
Blaise Stewart (Palmyra)
Kobi Treffery Koenders (Kalamunda)
Tevita Muli Uasilaa (Palmyra)
Fonua Vaioleti (Mandurah Pirates)
Longoatu Jr Vaka (Palmyra)
Trent Yates (Palmyra)
Development players
Esei Fatanitavake (Swan Suburbs)
Atatagi Fatupaito Junior (Southern Lions)
Joseva Ganilau (Southern Lions)
Wezley Hikila Kivalu (Swan Suburbs)
Mitch Scott (Kalamunda)
Tusipasi Tusigaigoa-Isaako (Swan Suburbs)
Lyric Vasukicakau (Southern Lions)
2026 SUPER RUGBY U16 SCHEDULE
*All times WST*
Western Force v Queensland Reds – Saturday 26 September 12:45pm – Viking Park, Canberra
NSW Waratahs v Western Force – Tuesday 29 September 1pm – TBC Sydney
Western Force v Victoria – Saturday 3 October 1pm – Viking Park, Canberra
Western Force v Brumbies – Tuesday 6 October 9:30am – Viking Park, Canberra…. PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 03 Sep 2026
Kolinisau begins Fiji 7s squad reshuffle after first trials
SUVA, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (FBC SPORTS) — Fiji Airways Men’s 7s head coach Osea Kolinisau has begun shaping his squad for the new season following the team’s first trials.
The national side completed its opening four-week gym phase before putting players through their paces in today’s trials, with Kolinisau using the session to assess the squad and identify players for the next phase of preparation.
A strong development focus was also evident, with several Under-18 players joining the trials as Fiji looks to build a pathway into the senior programme.
Kolinisau says the involvement of additional coaches and HBU staff has also helped with player monitoring and assessment.
The squad currently stands at 70 players, with the wider group set to be trimmed to 35 before the second phase begins.
However, the door remains open for players competing in the Skipper Cup, with Kolinisau confirming they will continue to monitor domestic performances.
Another trial is expected after the second phase before the final Fiji 7s squad for the season is confirmed…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: AAP PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 03 Sep 2026
Bledisloe Cup quadruple-header announced as sevens added to ticket
SYDNEY, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (AAP) — Australia’s sevens teams will share the stage in a scheduling first, with the Wallabies and Wallaroos creating a Bledisloe Cup quadruple-header in Sydney.
The Stadium Australia Test against the All Blacks on October 17 already had a support act secured, with the Wallaroos due to host Scotland for the first time in their WXV Global Series clash.
Now two more fixtures will be added to the ticket, with Australia’s world champion sevens women to face rivals New Zealand and the men up against two-time Olympic gold medallists Fiji.
“This is an historic moment for Australian rugby, with all four of our Teams In Gold competing on the same pitch, on the same day, on an unmissable occasion,” Rugby Australia chief executive Phil Waugh told AAP.
“The day will showcase the very best of rugby with our elite male and female players across the XVs and Sevens formats taking on famous rivals from around the world in an unprecedented line-up of international rugby.
“We look forward to celebrating this extraordinary occasion with our great Australian rugby community and we thank our friends from New Zealand Rugby, Fiji Rugby Union and Scottish Rugby for helping make this day a reality.”
The Wallaroos will begin the action before the men’s and women’s sevens outfits take the field, followed by the Wallabies, who will complete the four-course menu with a late afternoon kick-off at the venue set to host next year’s World Cup final…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: PMN PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 03 Sep 2026
Concussion lawsuits can continue, court rules, as player safety remains under scrutiny
WELLINGTON, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (PMN) — More than 500 former rugby league and union players can continue their legal fight over long-term brain injuries after a court in the United Kingdom rejected an attempt by rugby governing bodies to have the cases thrown out.
The London High Court ruled last week that the lawsuits can continue but the claimants’ lawyers must still provide missing medical records.
The ruling keeps open a major legal case over whether rugby authorities did enough to protect players from the risks of repeated concussions and head knocks.
Judge Jeremy Cook said the “individual claimants are blameless” in relation to the disclosure problems.
The cases involve former rugby union and rugby league players who say repeated concussive and sub-concussive blows left them with serious neurological conditions.
They allege governing bodies failed in their duty to protect players from those risks.
The case is also raising questions for Pacific rugby, where players are heavily represented in elite competitions but research into the long-term effects of concussion on Pacific athletes remains limited.
Dr Chris Puli’uvea, of Auckland University of Technology, led research into concussion among Pacific and Māori athletes and has said that Pacific people are well represented in sport but remain under-represented in concussion research.
“We’re well represented in sports, but we’re probably overrepresented in concussions as well, so we want to try and reach out to them,” Puli’uvea told John Pulu on PMN Tonga.
He says the research is important because concussion can affect more than an athlete’s ability to play.
“A lot of the work that we’re doing here is around concussion, or like a little knock to the brain, and causing this other mild traumatic brain injury.
“That can have impacts on just your cognitive symptoms, mood, and other things as well,” Puli’uvea said.
Dr Stephen Kara, a head-injury specialist, has previously said that recognising concussion cannot be left to the player, coach or doctor alone.
“I think there’s more we can do around the educational space. I don’t think it’s a coach problem, I think concussion is a societal problem,” Kara told PMN News.
He says anyone who sees a player showing signs of a head injury has a responsibility to act.
“If I recognise it, I remove the person. If I get it wrong, then okay, but I might have looked after their brain. Until someone has promptly assessed their brain.”
The concerns are not abstract for Pacific teams.
Last year, Tongan international Eliesa Katoa suffered a serious brain injury during a Test against New Zealand, prompting an NRL investigation into how his injuries were handled.
Four Tonga XIII officials were later issued breach notices, with three receiving bans of at least 24 months.
The NRL said its investigation found concerns about a possible breakdown in communication between medical and health professionals, including information it said was vital to Katoa’s safety.
Katoa’s Storm team-mate and former Fiji Bati captain Tui Kamikamica, who was also concussed during the 2025 Pacific Championships, announced his retirement from rugby league last week on medical advice after suffering a stroke earlier this year.
Following the London court ruling, the rugby bodies have disputed the players’ claims, including whether they owed players a duty of care that covered the long-term risk of serious neurological conditions.
World Rugby has also argued in its defence that injuries are an “inherent risk” in rugby.
Almost 800 former rugby union players are suing World Rugby, the Rugby Football Union and the Welsh Rugby Union. More than 300 former rugby league players are also taking legal action.
The legal battle is closely watched across the rugby world, including in the Pacific, where players from Fiji, Sāmoa and Tonga have long featured heavily in professional rugby in Europe and the southern hemisphere.
Player welfare and concussion management have also become a growing issue for Pacific teams, with head injuries affecting players during international and regional competitions.
Sāmoa coach Steve Jackson previously highlighted the impact of concussion on his side after three front-row players were forced from a match against Georgia following head injuries.
“We were really confident. We knew Georgia were going to come out firing and we expected that. Unfortunately we lost Motu Matu’u and Paul Alo-Emile, who were doing so well in the front row in the first half, to concussion,” Jackson said.
“They got their Head Injury Assessments (HIA) and they weren’t able to come out at half-time, and Logovi’i Mulipola, our other prop, started to cramp up.”
Former players involved in the UK cases say the repeated head impacts they suffered during their careers have contributed to serious neurological problems.
The rugby bodies have challenged the claims but last week’s ruling means the legal arguments can now continue.
The case began in 2022 and has faced repeated delays over the disclosure of medical evidence.
For Pacific players, the issue also raises questions about what support is available after playing careers end, particularly for those who spent years playing overseas.
The London High Court decision does not determine whether the rugby authorities are liable for the players’ injuries.
It means the former players can continue their legal claims and the wider arguments over player safety and long-term brain health will now be heard.
For rugby-playing nations across the Pacific, the case adds to a growing focus on how the game protects players not only during their careersbut in the years after they retire…. PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 03 Sep 2026
Home grown talent joins Drua coaching staff
SUVA, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (FBC SPORTS) — The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua have finalised their coaching and performance team for the upcoming 2 N Save Super Rugby Pacific season, bringing together former Flying Fijian stars and experienced international coaches.
For the first time, coaches who have come through Fiji’s rugby development pathways have been added to the assistant coaching ranks.
Joining head coach Brad Mooar and senior assistant coach Mike Catt are five new additions: Ifereimi Rawaqa as forwards coach, Campese Ma’afu as scrum coach, Alando Soakai as defence coach, Dale Thomas as clinical and performance psychologist coach, and Luke Vasu as strength and conditioning coach.
The inclusion of former Flying Fijians Rawaqa and Ma’afu highlights the Drua’s commitment to developing homegrown coaching talent and creating pathways for Fijians to lead at the highest levels of professional rugby.
Fijian Drua CEO Jeff Miller says securing a coaching group of this calibre is a major statement for the franchise as it enters its sixth season.
He says the combination of international expertise and a strong Fijian identity will help build a deeper connection with players and supporters while creating a complete high-performance environment…. PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY LEAGUE: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 03 Sep 2026
FNRL takes control of referees association, launches drive to recruit 100 officials
SUVA, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (FBC SPORTS) — The Fiji National Rugby League has taken direct control of the Fiji National Rugby League Referees Association, citing ongoing operational concerns and a lack of compliance and accredited officials overseeing local competitions.
The move takes effect immediately, with FNRL Executive Chairman Rajesh Singh saying the restructuring is aimed at strengthening governance, accountability and standards among match officials.
According to FNRL, repeated requests over recent months for key governance documents from the previous administration were not fulfilled.
The governing body says it was not provided with audited referees’ accounts, annual general meeting reports for the past five years, referee registration records, bank account verification or a complete list of referee accreditations.
FNRL says only one accredited referee is currently on record, prompting the organisation to take action to ensure local competitions have properly trained and accredited officials.
As part of the restructuring, FNRL will launch a nationwide recruitment drive with a target of training 100 new referees.
The organisation is also calling on existing referees and interested individuals to commit to accreditation and play a greater role in the development of rugby league in Fiji.
FNRL says the initiative is intended to improve the standard of officiating, protect player safety and provide stronger support for the continued growth of the sport.
Singh says the restructuring is necessary to ensure the game is administered to the required standards and that the interests of clubs, players and the wider rugby league community are protected…. PACNEWS
COOKS – AIRBADMINTON: COOK ISLANDS NEWS PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 03 Sep 2026
Cook Islands secure medals from AirBadminton championship debut
RAROTONGA, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (COOK ISLANDS NEWS) — Cook Islands AirBadminton team has returned from the Australian AirBadminton Championships, bringing home medals from their first international competition.
Badminton Association President and Coach Thomas Mereana-Ngauru says this was the first time the Cook Islands competed at the Championships or at any regional or international AirBadminton competition.
Mereana-Ngauru said the team’s selection came from the results of the AirBadminton competition held during the 2026 Beach Games hosted by CISNOC in January.
He said the team’s preparation has been a combination of indoor and outdoor sessions and gym work over the last two months for the team of six (3 men and 3 Women): Maneatapu Maretapu, Vincent Simpson, Edward Patai, Teatuanui George, Lana Aperau-Toa and Tuaine Nicholas-Herman.
“An invitation had been extended to Cook Islands Badminton from Badminton Oceania to compete at the Nationals due to our active AirBadminton activities and competitions locally.”
He said the first day of competition was the team event, played in two pools, with Cook Islands coming second in their pool after the round robin, confirming a top-four spot in the final playoffs.
He said that on Day 2, the top four played a round-robin playoff, with Cook Islands coming first equal in a three-way tie, unfortunately missing a medal after a countback.
He added that immediately after the Team event, they went into the Individual events, where the Cook Islands made up for that team event loss, winning the following:
Men’s Singles
Gold – Vincent Simpson (Cook Islands)
Silver – Maneatapu Maretapu (Cook Islands)
Mens Doubles
Silver – Vincent Simpson & Edward Patai (Cook Islands)
Women’s Doubles
Silver – Tuaine Nicholas-Herman & Lana Toa (Cook Islands)
Mixed Triples
Gold – Maneatapu Maretapu, Vincent Simpson and Teatuanui George (Cook Islands)
“This has been a real eye-opener, and we are looking forward to more international competition in the future.”
The team has acknowledged all their supporters and family who looked after them in Brisbane, especially Alex and Alice Marsters, Retire and Amiria Ben, Khon, Nicole and Bodeen Marsters, and the SE Queensland Cook Islands Community President, Kevin Dando, for their support and kind donation.
The team also thanks CITC Supermarket and its patrons, those who supported the AirBadminton Shirt fundraiser and Badminton Oceania for the opportunity…. PACNEWS
VAN – CHESS: VANUATU DAILY POST PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 03 Sep 2026
12 to represent Vanuatu at 46th Chess Olympiad
PORT VILA, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (VANUATU DAILY POST) — Twelve Vanuatu Chess players will be leaving for Central Asia to compete in the 46th Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, Uzbekistan.
Led by Opens (men) Team Captain and President of Vanuatu Chess Federation Ricky Hinton and Women’s Captain Sandrine Nasse, the Port Vila dozen intend to put out a better performance than the 2024 Olympiad in Budapest.
“This time round we are sending a 100 percent Ni-Vanuatu team and for most of our players, just getting the opportunity to represent their country is a dream come true. We know the competition will be incredibly strong and we’re realistic about the challenges ahead, but every player is hoping to come away with a few good results and hoping for at least 1 win each,” Captain Ricky said.
He added that team Vanuatu is proud to represent the country on a world stage and hope to inspire others to join the federation.
“It’s amazing to think about who we played last time – American Virgin Island, Laos, Ivory Coast, Malawi, Tunisia and Saint Vincent & the Grenadines, I mean when have Vanuatu ever played them before!?! It’s a truly special event for that because we meet and compete against so many different countries.
“We want to build on the success from last year, we (women) won three games and the men won one, hoping to win a couple more this time around,” he said.
As for the Women’s Captain, Sandrine Nasse, on the chess federation website her goal is to “represent Vanuatu with pride and contribute to the team’s performance and build confidence for future Olympiads and regional championships.”
The south Asian tournament begins on the 15th of September – 27th, team Vanuatu will be flying out on the 12th of September and returning on the 30th.
A collection of 200 countries and territories will be competing this month.
To assist Team Vanuatu’s journey, a GoFundMe page has been made and currently funds donated amount to $671(euros) (US$777.48).
Vanuatu qualified for this Olympiad by becoming a member of FIDE, the International Chess Federation in 2023, by becoming a member team Vanuatu alongside all other members, qualify automatically for Olympiads which happen after every two years, the previous Olympiad and Vanuatu’s first was in Budapest, this will be Vanuatu’s second appearance…. PACNEWS
VAN – FOOTBALL: VANUATU DAILY POST PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 03 Sep 2026
Vanuatu United to make home debut against Central Coast Mariners
PORT VILA, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (VANUATU DAILY POST) — Vanuatu United FC (VUFC) will play its first matches on home soil when it hosts Isuzu UTE A-League Men’s club Central Coast Mariners in the PacificAus Sports Challenge.
Supported by the Australian Government’s PacificAus Sports programme, the two‑match series will take place at Freswota Stadium in Port Vila on Wednesday and Saturday next week.
The series will provide VUFC with high-quality international club opposition while giving the Mariners two valuable matches as part of their preparations for the upcoming A-League Men season.
The visit will also include a programme of community engagement and football development activities involving the travelling Mariners delegation and members of the local football community.
The 2026 PacificAus Sports Challenge is being delivered through collaboration between the Australian Government, Football Australia, the Vanuatu Football Federation (VFF), VUFC and Central Coast Mariners.
The series builds on visits to Port Vila by Australia’s U-17 and U-23 Men’s National Teams in 2024, further strengthening the football partnership between the two countries and highlighting the game’s platform for deepening bilateral and people-to-people ties.
Secretary General (SG) of the VFF, Albert Manaroto, acknowledged Football Australia, PacificAus Sports, and the Australian High Commission in Vanuatu for their invaluable assistance and collaborative efforts in facilitating the upcoming friendly matches.
“Specifically, we appreciate the agreement to host fixtures between Central Coast Mariners and VUFC . These opportunities are invaluable in providing our players and technical staff with a high-level football experience that is critical to the continued development and professional growth of the sport in Vanuatu,” he said.
“The support extended by the Australian High Commission has been instrumental in ensuring the smooth coordination and success of this initiative, and we are deeply thankful for their continued commitment to strengthening football ties between our two nations.
“We welcome this initiative as a significant step forward in fostering stronger sporting relationships and look forward to a successful and competitive series.”
Central Coast Mariners FC Supporting Director, Matt Simon, said they are excited to be travelling to Vanuatu and to be part of what will be a significant moment for VUFC as they play their first official matches at home.
“From a football perspective, these matches will provide our squad with valuable preparation as we build towards the A-League season, but this trip is about much more than what happens on the pitch,” he said.
“The Mariners believe football brings communities together, and we’re looking forward to spending time in Port Vila, connecting with the local football community and hopefully creating some lasting memories for young players and supporters.
“We’re grateful to the Australian Government, Football Australia, the Vanuatu Football Federation and Vanuatu United for providing this opportunity, and we’re proud to play a small part in continuing to strengthen the football connection between Australia, in particular, the Central Coast and Vanuatu.”
Australian High Commissioner to Vanuatu, Max Willis, said: “This is an historic occasion for Vanuatu United FC and for football fans across Vanuatu, who will have the opportunity to see their team play official matches at home for the first time.
“Australia is very glad to support opportunities that bring people together, inspire young athletes and strengthen the close ties between our two countries.
“These matches build on the growing football partnership between Vanuatu and Australia. Football fosters friendships, inclusion and people-to-people links that endure well beyond the final whistle.”
Football Australia CEO, Martin Kugeler, assured that Football Australia, alongside the Australian Government, is committed to supporting the establishment and growth of professional football throughout Oceania and the Pacific.
“The PacificAus Sports Challenge represents a wonderful homecoming for Vanuatu United, and we are proud to help bring this international football experience directly to their passionate fans on home soil, against an A-League club in the Central Coast Mariners which has a strong connection to Vanuatu.”
Tickets prices are VT1,500 (US$12.67) for the Main Grandstand, VT1,000 (US$8.44) for the Wing Stands, and VT300 (US$2.53) for the Standing Area/Grass Banks
PacificAus Sports is an Australian Government sports diplomacy initiative developing pathways for Pacific teams and athletes to compete in elite competitions and access high performance coaching in Australia and internationally.
The programme partners with Australian national sports organisations to support a range of Pacific sports, with funding split evenly between women and men…. PACNEWS
AUST – GOLF: GOLF AUSTRALIA PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 03 Sep 2026
Australian WPGA Championship locks in dates for 2027
CANBERRA, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (GOLF AUSTRALIA) — The date is locked in for the 2027 Australian WPGA Championship, with the showpiece tournament to return to Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club on the Gold Coast from March 4-7.
Co-sanctioned by the WPGA Tour of Australasia and Ladies European Tour, the 2027 championship will again bring together some of the world’s best female professional golfers on The Palms golf course, as well as feature the second Festival of Golf, a celebration of the game, its lifestyle and the broader golf community.
The Australian WPGA Championship has quickly established itself as a major highlight of the Australian summer of golf and produced a memorable result last March as Australian No.1 Hannah Green claimed the Karrie Webb Cup to complete the third leg of a remarkable hat-trick of professional victories.
WPGA Tour of Australasia CEO Karen Lunn said Sanctuary Cove had proven to be the perfect home for the Championship.
“Sanctuary Cove has quickly become synonymous with the Australian WPGA Championship and we are delighted to be returning for a second consecutive year in 2027,” Lunn said.
“The tournament has attracted an exceptional calibre of players, and Hannah Green’s victory in 2026 was a wonderful demonstration of the quality and depth of women’s golf in Australia.
“To see Hannah complete the third leg of her hat-trick was a special moment and there will be more special moments to come I’m sure next year.
“We look forward to welcoming players, fans and the local community back to the Gold Coast in 2027 for another fantastic Australian WPGA Championship and Festival of Golf.”
Located between the 18th hole and the Sanctuary Cove Marine Village, the Festival of Golf includes interactive experiences, live entertainment from local artists, food trucks and pop-up bars, kids’ zones, and the very best food and shopping from local restaurants, cafes and stores.
“What made the inaugural Festival of Golf so exciting was the way it brought together the best of golf, innovation and entertainment in one place,” said Corey Rattray-Wood, General Manager – Events & Partnerships at Mulpha Events.
“For our second year, we’re looking to build on that foundation and make the Festival of Golf even better, with a renewed location and footprint connecting the Festival directly to the tournament action, while also introducing new products and experiences for golf lovers to discover.
“Whether you’re an avid golfer, curious about the sport or simply looking for a great family day out, the Festival of Golf provides a welcoming and approachable environment to experience everything golf has to offer.”
Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club CEO Paul Sanders said: “Sanctuary Cove is incredibly proud to once again host the Australian WPGA Championship and to see the event establish itself as a major fixture on the Australian golfing calendar.
“The quality of the golf combined with the atmosphere created around the Festival of Golf has been fantastic for our members, the Gold Coast community and everyone involved.”
The Festival of Golf is delivered by Mulpha Events and is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events, Experience Gold Coast, the WPGA Tour of Australasia, and Sanctuary Cove Golf and Country Club.
Further details regarding the 2027 Australian WPGA Championship and Festival of Golf will be announced in the lead-up to the event…. PACNEWS
PAC – OLYMPIC: RNZ PACIFIC PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 03 Sep 2026
Vanuatu women chase Los Angeles Olympics qualification in China
PORT VILA, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (RNZ PACIFIC) — Vanuatu women’s beach volleyball team is hoping a 10-day high-performance camp in Australia will help them win a continental tournament in China and secure them direct qualification to the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.
The Vanuatu pair of Sherysyn Toko and Majabelle Lawac are set to compete at the 2026 AVC BV Continental Championships in Shangluo city this week.
The tournament features a strong field of 13 women’s teams from Asia and Oceania, including Australia and New Zealand. The winners of both the men’s and women’s competitions will each earn a place for the LA Olympics Games.
Vanuatu, which is the only Pacific Island nation to have qualified for the event, has been drawn in Pool D, alongside New Zealand, Thailand, Kyrgyzstan. They will kick-off their campaign on Wednesday night against Thailand.
Vanuatu’s women have been historically among Oceania’s strongest beach volleyball nations and have previously come close to Olympic qualification through regional events.
“The Continental championships in Shangluo are serving as a stepping stone on the Olympic qualification pathway for teams from across Asia and Oceania,” Vanuatu Volleyball said in a statement.
It said Team Vanuatu duo have continued to develop their partnership on the court under the guidance of national coach Miller Pata.
“The camp provided the athletes with targeted skills work, opposed game play against elite local competition, and detailed video analysis, all aimed squarely at the 2026 Asian BV Championships in China and the pathway toward LA 2028 qualification.”
The players also had the benefit of receiving additional expert guidance while in Sydney from Olympian Julien Prosser.
“This camp is not just about our girls getting stronger for Asia, it is about me taking these systems, these drills, this whole way of preparing a team, and building them into what we do every day back home,” Miller said.
“When we go to China, we want to take a simple, clear game plan and the belief that we belong on that sand with the top teams in the region.”
The AVC Beach Volleyball Continental Championships in Shangluo will be held from 2 to 5 September…. PACNEWS
PAC – SPORTS: ONOC PACNEWS SPORT: Thu 03 Sep 2026
Cathy Wong joins ONOC President Baklai Temengil on WADA Foundation Board
SUVA, 03 SEPTEMBER 2026 (ONOC) — The Oceania National Olympic Committees (ONOC) congratulates Cathy Wong, President of the Fiji Association of Sports and National Olympic Committee (FASANOC), on her appointment to the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Foundation Board.
Wong has been appointed as a representative of the Association of National Olympic Committees (ANOC) on the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Foundation Board following notification of her appointment by the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Her three-year term commenced on 29 May 2026 and will run until 28 May 2029.
Importantly, Wong joins ONOC President and IOC Member Ms Baklai Temengil on the WADA Foundation Board, giving Oceania two senior sporting leaders contributing to the governance of the global anti-doping movement.
President Temengil currently serves on the Foundation Board as an IOC representative, while Wong will serve as an ANOC representative.
Their concurrent membership provides a significant level of Oceania representation within one of international sport’s key governance bodies and ensures that perspectives and experiences from the Pacific continue to contribute to global discussions around clean sport, athlete protection, integrity and good governance.
The WADA Foundation Board is the Agency’s highest decision-making body and is composed equally of representatives from the Olympic Movement and public authorities.
Wong is a long-serving sports administrator and currently serves as President of FASANOC. She is also a member of the ONOC Executive Board and Chair of the ONOC Games Committee.
ONOC President Baklai Temengil congratulated Wong on the appointment, describing it as an important achievement for Fiji and the wider Oceania Olympic family.
“Cathy’s appointment to the WADA Foundation Board is a significant recognition of her leadership and contribution to sport. It is also a proud moment for Fiji and Oceania.
“I am particularly pleased to welcome Cathy to the Foundation Board. Having two representatives from Oceania contributing to its work is significant for our region and provides another opportunity to ensure Pacific perspectives are part of international decision-making.
“Clean sport and the protection of athletes are fundamental to the integrity of the Olympic Movement, and I am confident Cathy will bring valuable experience, insight and an important Oceania perspective to the work of the WADA Foundation Board.”
WADA formally welcomed Ms Wong to the Board in June, noting that it looked forward to working with her in the protection of clean sport.
Wong is expected to participate in her first annual WADA Foundation Board meeting during her term in Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain, on 26 November 2026.
Her appointment further strengthens Oceania’s representation across key international sporting institutions and reflects the growing contribution of Pacific sports leaders to global sport governance…. PACNEWS
