The QLDPNGRL Kokomos play a lead role in promoting the PNG Hunters games in QLD and also disseminate PNG Hunters news updates from PNG and elsewhere in Australia.
We were there at the first PNG Hunters Brisbane game against Redcliff Dolphins in 2014 and have been passionate supporters of the PNG Hunters since 2014.
We use our Facebook page (Queensland PNG Rugby League Incorporated: Tom Adamson) which has over 5000 members and our website (https://www.qldpngrugbyleague.com/) to promote PNG Hunters games. This has contributed to great crowds in the Hunters games against QCup clubs.
Part of a huge crowd at the PNG Hunters vs Redcliff Dolphins, Redcliff.
Meet and Greet
As great fans of PNG Hunters, the Kokomos hosted several Meet and Greet Hunters fan days. The first was in July 2016 and the recent one was in 2021.
Both events were well received by fans. The Kokomos prepared a BBQ in 2016. In 2021, the Kokomos invited PNG based groups in QLD who prepared huge mumu representing their region of origin in PNG. There were lots of great food shared with the Hunters and fans.
PNG Hunters Meet and Greet day hosted by the Kokomos on 25th July 2021 at Bill Norris Oval, Beenleigh. Lots of home cook food for the PNG Hunters shared.PNG Hunters meet and greet fan day in July 2nd 2016, Bill Norris oval, Beenleigh QLD
Kokomos Player of the Match
In 2021, the Kokomos introduced and facilitated a Kokomo player of the match to the best PNG Hunters player in the games played against south east Qld clubs. A prize money of $100 was donated by QLDPNGRL or its sponsors.
This was a fan commitment as an extra incentive to create a stronger relationship with the Hunters and motivate the Hunters players. By end of 2021, the Kokomos and PNG Hunters fans presented over $1500 to various Hunters Players of the Match.
Tally of Kokomo Player of the Match, 2021First Kokomo Player of the Match, Terry Wapi (l) presented by Head Coach Elias Paiyo (r) and Vice President John Ten (m)
Cultural Events
We also participate in cultural days sanctioned by QCup clubs when playing against the PNG Hunters. These include Harmony Day with Ipswich Jets, Kokoda Cup at Burleigh Bears and Wynnum Manly. These events connect the fans with the Hunters and also provides opportunity for PNG heritage children embrace their rich PNG heritage.
Kokomos – Hunters partnership for 2022
In 2022, the Kokomos and PNG Hunters got off to a great start. The executives of both organizations met in early January to finalize agendas for the year.
The first item was to get PNG Kokomos young talent to train with the Hunters. This was a great opportunity for the Kokomo boys to connect with the PNG Hunters.
The Hunters had brought 26 players to Australia. If the Hunters incur injuries, down with covid or face suspensions in games; the Hunters would need backup players and the Kokomos are readily available if needed.
The first 6 Kokomos were selected and trained with the Hunters to play in one of their trail games against the Fiji Silktails but the game was cancelled due to bad weather.
Following that, the Hunters formally announced the official partnership with the QLDPNG Kokomos.
The six selected Kokomos; Tyler Han, Jordan Paiyo, Emmanuel Kiddie, Thane Kellermeyer, Trevor Monaei and Shaun Hoerler trailed with the PNG Hunters against the Brisbane West Panthers on Saturday 12th March 2022. They celebrated with the PNG Hunters with a great win. Following this, Tyler Han has successfully played two games for the PNG Hunters in 2022.
