Rimbu Rejoins the PNG Hunters

The SP PNG Hunters are pleased to officially announce the return of Judah Rimbu to the club for the remainder of the 2025 Queensland Rugby League (QRL) Hostplus Cup season. 

Rimbu, who was honored with the 2024 QRL Petero Civoniceva Medal, recognizing him as the competition’s best and fairest, returns to Papua New Guinea following a short stint with the English Super League club Castleford Tigers. The Tigers released Rimbu as part of a mid-season restructuring of their playing roster. 

Head coach Paul Aiton welcomed his return, saying: “I am happy to have Judah back for the rest of the season. He’s a quality player, who brings energy to the club and the boys love to have him around. This is his home, we’re like family, and his presence will make an impact on the squad.” 

Rimbu said this on his return home: “While things didn’t work out as planned in the UK, I’m  determined to come back home, work hard and help the team have another successful season, hoping to build on what we did last year.” 

SP PNG Hunters CEO Scott Barker also welcomed Rimbu’s return, stating: “Judah’s not only a good player but a genuinely good guy. I understand that sometimes things like this happen and we are more than happy to have a quality player like him back in our squad. He’s young and he’s got more to give. We will keep on pushing him to help reach his full potential.” 

Rimbu arrived in Papua New Guinea yesterday (June 15), where he was given a rousing welcome by his family and friends, and will rejoin the team and resume training ahead of upcoming Hostplus Cup fixtures. 

Judah Rimbu's return comes at a pivotal time in the Hunters’ 2025 campaign, adding valuable experience,  strength, and depth to the squad as they push through the second half of the season.