Grass Skirt Project is focused on preventing domestic and sexual violence, building stronger communities and improving public health and education outcomes in PNG through the vehicle of sport.
International Women’s Day represents the perfect occasion to celebrate women and girls and share knowledge and resources on topics that affect them by convening a fun and energising event based on the PNG national sport – rugby league.
The Hevea Cup International Rugby League 9’s Carnival will comprise 24 teams; 12 men’s and 12 women’s, coming together from around PNG and the wider Pacific region to participate in sport-oriented community building and health promotion in a safe, inclusive environment while celebrating the vital role of women in PNG.
The event is set to be hosted at Port Moresby's National Football Stadium on March 8th and 9th.
The accompanying Wellness Expo will feature over 40 stalls, training and education workshops, special guests and activities for kids throughout the two days, including:
- Official Launch of Grass Skirt Project’s Gym in a Box
- Meet & great with Grass Skirt Project ambassador, PNG Orchids & Brisbane Broncos player Amelia Kuk
- Meet & great with PNG Orchids Captain Carol Humeu & PNG Palais Captain Debbie Karoe
- Appearances by PNG Hunters players
- Jumping castles & face painting for kids
- Information and resources from 20 community organisations and health service providers, including; Marie Stopes, Femili PNG, Susu Mamas, WeCare, ChildFund, Wantaim PNG, Sustainable Coastlines, PNG Olympic Committee & PNG Tribal Foundation
- K20,000 in prizes to be won through the Hevea Passport competition
Hevea Cup Carnival Official Patron, Lady Anna Togolo, will officially open the event. Official competition director is former Canberra Raiders and PNG Kumuls player David Westley.
Registration is now open to teams wishing to play.
Visit www.grassskirtproject.org or email tahina@grassskirtproject.org for registration forms. Teams registering will receive a full team jersey kit; a David Westley coached workshop and PNGRFL coaches’ registration.
Opportunities exist for corporate and private stallholders to secure a place at the Wellness Expo, e-mail stall and corporate enquiries to tahina@grassskirtproject.org.
This event is organised by Grass Skirt Project in participation with Oil Search, New Zealand High Commission, EMTV, KK Kingston, and David Westley Sports Management.