Brothers in League – Australia, Papua New Guinea and a shared future

Rugby league history, politics, and Pacific dreams came alive on Monday evening at the Petersham RSL, as the 26th Annual Tom Brock Lecture unfolded before a packed house filled with some of the sharpest minds in the code.

Icons such as David Middleton, board members of the Newtown Jets, rugby league journalists and several esteemed referees were all present, creating what felt like a gathering of the game’s quiet rugby league brains trust. These are the unsung decision-makers, statistical masters, and storytellers who shape the sport’s narrative and soul.

The evening was hosted by the Tom Brock Bequest Committee, an organisation dedicated to rugby league’s historical heart. Formed in honour of Dr. Thomas Brock, whose scholarship and passion for the game led him to assemble one of the finest rugby league libraries in existence, the committee works to preserve and celebrate the rich stories of the sport.

Through ongoing research, lectures, and publications, the committee ensures that rugby league’s hidden tales are never forgotten and always appreciated.

Patrick Skene was the headline act, and his contributions are truly remarkable. Skene is widely known as an author, journalist, and rugby league cultural historian. He has earned acclaim with his work on Pasifika heroes, contributed to programs such as ABC’s Pacific Beat, and has written The Big O, The Life and Times of Olsen Filipaina. His insightful and empathetic coverage of Indigenous and Pacific Islander experiences in rugby league sets him apart.

Last night, Skene impressed with his thorough research and engaging delivery, weaving stories from grassroots rugby league in Papua New Guinea all the way to high-level discussions about the future of the NRL. The audience was captivated from start to finish.

Skene’s lecture focused on the upcoming Papua New Guinea NRL team, exploring both the unique history and the bold ambitions behind the project. He brought to life the struggles and triumphs of PNG’s pioneers such as Sir John Kaputin, Paul Chue, and Justin Olam, and underscored the significance of stars like Alex Johnston.

After the lecture, a distinguished panel took questions and led a lively discussion. The panel featured Patrick Skene, Ponabe Yuwa, the Sydney Papua New Guinea Consul General, who brought a beautiful and friendly style to the conversation, and Brad Walter, an experienced journalist and International Rugby League Media Manager.

Together, the panel did not shy away from the hard questions. They challenged listeners to consider whether Australia will open genuine pathways for PNG talent, whether there is enough patience for the team to grow, and whether a quiet resistance still exists to truly embracing our younger brothers in the Pacific.

Ponabe Yuwa gently drew the conversation toward the sensitive issue of racism in Australia but remained positive about what the new team could achieve and about Australia’s increasingly open heart toward Papua New Guinea.

While the challenges are real, Skene’s optimism left a lasting impression. The shared history and passion for rugby league suggest that the relationship between Australia and Papua New Guinea will only become stronger.

Alex Johnston stands as a living example of the possibilities. As one of the greatest try-scorers in the last century of football, he symbolises the ties that connect these proud rugby peoples through his eligibility for both the PNG Kumuls and the Indigenous All-Stars with a connection made possible through his grandmother. These deep bonds are now being given the opportunity to flourish, and it is truly an exciting time for everyone who loves the game.

The new team is on the horizon and its story, just like Johnston’s, will belong to all lovers of rugby league.

Tonight’s lecture at Petersham RSL demonstrated once again that this sport is most powerful when it brings people together across cultures, oceans, and generations.