Harris replaces Dib as Chairlady of PNG Chiefs

Following Lorna McPherson’s appointment as the new CEO of PNG Chiefs last week, the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) made another change yesterday (21 January 2026), announcing Catherine Harris as the Chiefs’ chairwoman, who has replaced Ray Dib.

With less than a year before the Chiefs’ entrance to the NRL, the board has shaken up the key positions, especially the CEO and Chairmanship posts, with McPherson and Harris replacing Andrew Hill (CEO) and Ray Dib (Chairman), respectively. 

The ARLC acknowledged Mr. Dib for his contributions, stating: “Outgoing Chair, Ray Dib, will depart the board, and we take the opportunity to thank Ray for his efforts in the establishment and early development of the PNG Chiefs.”

The PNG Chiefs and PNG Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) also congratulated Harris on her appointment, welcoming her to the board and looking forward to working together to build a robust, NRL-ready club. 

Incoming chairlady, Ms. Harris, expressed appreciation to the ARLC and PNG Chiefs board for having confidence and faith in her leadership to steer the board and prepare the franchise leading up to 2028. 

Ms. Harris, a leading Australian businesswoman for many decades, brings a wealth of corporate expertise and senior governance experience to the role. She has served as an inaugural board member of the PNG Chiefs since 2025, and was previously the Australian Rugby League Commissioner.

PC: The Australian Academy of Media