Eastern Papua Carnival Progresses into Third Week of Competition

The annual Eastern Papua Carnival (EPC) Soccer Tournament kicked off its off-season competition two weekends ago at Port Moresby’s famous Bisini Sports Ground. 

Established in 1978, the soccer tournament was created to unite the Milne Bay community residing in the nation’s capital, which has grown into one of the biggest grassroots events in the Southern region.

EPC began as a soccer tournament with 16 clubs and has since evolved by including more teams over the years, with participants traveling from as far as Alotau to compete. 

This year, a total of 47 teams are competing across both men’s and women’s divisions, including the youth competition. The senior division features 4 pools (men) and 2 pools (women). 

Out of the 47 teams, 45 are Port Moresby-based, while two men’s teams traveled all the way from the Kiriwina-Goodenough District to participate in the annual tourney. 

EPC Tournament Director, Taku Niebo, highlighted the significance of the sporting event, describing what it means to the people of Milne Bay living in NCD.

“I’m impressed with the talents on display so far. Some are very raw talents competing against experienced players in the city,” he explained.

“It’s more like a social activity. It’s pleasing to see everyone coming together to socialize and have fun with each other. Some are serious with their football, while others are here to spectate.”

The tournament director mentioned that they would run the knockouts or playoffs next weekend, with the finals expected to be hosted during the first or second week of December.

Last year, the tournament ended abruptly, but the organizers remain optimistic about finishing the event on a good note this year.

The tournament faces challenges but continues to stage the event annually, with Niebo urging the business houses and elites from Milne Bay to step in to assist the thriving tournament. 

Despite these setbacks, Mr. Niebo and his organizers are looking to expand the carnival into other sports beyond soccer to be more inclusive of the community’s interests.