PLAYING and surviving in Australia’s second-tier NRL competition is not as easy it seems, says Western Clydesdales power punch centre Stanford Talita. Talita, from Wapenamanda, Lower Lai in the Enga province is a typical Port Moresby brought-up young man, that followed rugby league with a passion during his younger years. Like most youngsters in the Nation’s Capital, Talita had his favourite NRL team, and always dreamed of playing on the big stage. He eventually played with the Hela Wigmen in the Digicel Exxon Mobil Cup team, after a promising stint with the Harlequins Rugby Union Club in the Capital Rugby Union – and reached the pinnacle of his playing career when he was selected for the Prime Ministers 13 team in 2017 and was named in the PNG Kumuls in 2019. “I guess I had a few chances in the past to get picked for the national team and I am truly grateful for that. “And if the selectors ever decide to pick me again, I’ll always be ready and proud to represent my country,” he added. And while rugby league was opening new pathways for Talita, he never lost sight of the fact that there must be something solid to fall back onto, once he stopped actively playing the game. While reflecting on life in Port Moresby, especially with family and friends close by is great, he said it can be challenging if you don’t have anything to fall back on. “Opportunities are quite rare in Port Moresby,” he added. “Education becomes essential once rugby ends. “In Australia, there are more opportunities to study and play at the same time, but life here can be even tougher as it requires discipline and strong time management. “Though the lifestyle also encourages growth beyond the game. “Playing here (Brisbane) has opened my eyes to what’s possible. “My long-term goal is to finish strong, stay fit, and have something solid to fall back on after footy. “Whether through education or creating new opportunities,” he said. While in Brisbane, Talita had a stint with the Wynnum Manly Seagulls, before signing up with the Western Clydesdales in QLD’s Hostplus Cup this season. The Hostplus Cup also includes the PNG Hunters. “Life with the Clydesdales since I joined this season has been a productive one. “I did the full pre-season with them, it’s been really good. “Most of the boys, including myself, juggle footy with work and family, so yea it’s more of a part time setup. “But when it’s time to train, we’re switched on and give it everything during those two to three sessions a week.” When asked to compare the QLD Cup and Digicel Cup, he said it’s been five years since he last played in the Digicel Cup. “But, I’m sure the game’s changed. “I’ve watched a few replays on YouTube, it’s definitely faster, and the skill level has gone up. “A lot of talented young players are coming through too. “When I first moved to Australia, I had to adjust to the style here. “It is more faster, the pace of the game and you have to be reactive. “You really just play what’s in front of you and make right decisions,” With his journey so far, Talita made special mention of someone who has always been influential in his rugby and personal life. And that is Rob Kawaipa from RK Development and Pathway. “He’s like a big brother and life coach to me. “He encouraged me to try Clydesdales, so I followed his advice, and here I am. “I’m also very grateful to my former Digicel Cup team, the Kroton Hela Wigmen, and especially the Chairman, Andy Hetra. “Alongside Rob, Andy and the Wigmen management played a huge role in helping me move from PNG to Australia and begin my journey with Wynnum Manly Seagulls.” “Also, I recently heard of the passing of Andy Hetra’s brother, Benjamin Hetra, whom I also played with and coached me as well. “He is a person I looked up to and his passing saddens me greatly. “I pass on my deepest condolences to his wife and child, the Hetra family and friends and also the Hela Wigmen team.” Talita has also been named for this Sunday’s match with the PNG Hunters at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby, but will not be confirmed to travel until Friday. “Otherwise up until today, I feel I’ve had a solid season so far, only missed one game in Round 1 and have stayed injury free. “My focus has always been on doing my job in areas I’m required and contributing to the team. “That’s my mindset every time I play.“The rest will take care of itself.” He said if he gets on the flight on Friday, he will definitely be keen to play the Hunters in front of family and friemds. During his early playing days, he played junior rugby league with Paga Panthers and rugby union with Harlequins (2013-2016), played 5 years with the Hela Wigmen (2017-2021), featured in the Downer 9s tournament in Sydney (2018), was named in the PNG Kumuls Oceania squad (2019), played for Wynnum Manly Seagulls (2022-2024) and this season with the Western Clydesdales (2025).