The rugby league nation of Papua New Guinea received a special visit from North Queensland Toyota Cowboys legend Brent Tate this week, as part of a scheduled visit to the region thanks to major partner Trukai Industries.
Joining the Cowboys’ major partner family in 2009, Trukai is a strong supporter of sport and healthy living at the grassroots level in Papua New Guinea and is PNG’s leading supplier of quality rice products.
Cowboys’ general manager commercial Jeff Reibel said the visit will continue to grow the strong ties of the relationship and with the PNG population.
“Our partnership with Trukai is a key way we can bring the Cowboys to the people of PNG and has played a major role in developing our supporter base with our northern neighbours,” Mr Reibel said.
“We know the number of Cowboys supporters in PNG is growing at a steady rate and the partnership with Trukai is definitely one of the reasons this is happening.”
Trukai Industries general manager (sales and marketing) Andrew Daubney said the visit will involve a tour of the new National Football Stadium, home to local Queensland Cup contenders PNG Hunters, as well as a meet and greet with Trukai customers and staff.
“We’re excited to host the Cowboys again this year, and look forward to showcasing the best that PNG has to offer,” Mr Daubney said.
Following the week’s activities, Tate and representatives from Trukai will join Prime Minister Peter O’Neill and other dignitaries from PNG and Townsville on the inaugural Air Niugini flight back to Townsville, with the flight due to arrive just hours ahead of Friday night’s home game.
“Now with direct flights between Port Moresby and Townsville, the Cowboys are even more accessible for PNG fans who are keen to see the team in action,” Mr Reibel said.
“To commemorate the first direct flight into Townsville, Air Nuigini and Townsville Airport have also come on board as match day sponsors of the Round 5 clash against the Rabbitohs at 1300SMILES Stadium.”