By Parker Tambua
Siblings Jacob and Taufa Taulani will be representing Papua New Guinea in Sunday’s Prime Minister’s XIII fixtures at the National Football Stadium in Port Moresby.
Jacob, 21, plays for the Newcastle Knights in New South Wales Cup competition while his younger brother Taufa, 17, plays for the Redcliffe Dolphins under 21 side in the Queensland Rugby League.
Their mother, Marissa told EMTV earlier in the week, that Sunday’s PM’13 matches would be a proud moment for the family.
Jacob will feature for the PNG men’s PM’s side that will take on Australia (3pm kick-off) while Taufa will play for the Junior Kumuls side that will face the Australian School Boys (11am kick-off).
“We’re immensely proud of Jacob being part of the selection in the seniors and leading the way for his younger brother, Taufa, selected in the juniors — it’s a very special moment for our family and an incredible honour for them to wear the national colours at different levels,” Marissa said.
“It means so much knowing they’re contributing to something bigger than themselves. We’ve witnessed the dedication and sacrifices they’ve made over the years, so to see them achieve this is deeply emotional and rewarding for all of us.”
Marissa further explained her familiy’s connection to Papua New Guinea.
“Our family’s connection to Papua New Guinea runs deep. I (Marissa) was born in Lae, Morobe Province, just like my father, Edward Natera, while my grandfather was from Yule Island in Central Province.
“The boys’ father, Gantin Taulani, is of Tongan heritage, so there’s a deep connection to heritage and family in both PNG and Tonga.
“My father made tremendous sacrifices when he moved our family to Australia, working tirelessly to provide opportunities and serving over two decades in regional communities. Now witnessing two of his six grandsons representing Papua New Guinea — especially in the Prime Minister’s XIII — is an incredibly proud moment that honours our family roots and values.”
Jacob has had a successful track record in the Jersey Flegg (under 20) competition and was later promoted NSW Cup which culminated with the 2025 Newcastle Knights Players’ Players Award.
Marissa said these achievements are a testament to Jacob’s consistency, performance and leadership. Jacob departed Cronulla Sharks earlier in the year to join the Newcastle Knights and is now aiming to get an opportunity in the NRL.
