The Hawthorn Football Club were pleased to witness a special performance by the Papua New Guinea Cultural Troupe.

The group, donning traditional headwear and tribal dress and accompanied by drums, chanted and danced in front of a crowded gym full of Hawks players and staff at Waverley Park.

The traditional dance expresses a challenge to a fair fight before entering battle. 

The troupe were pleased to perform in front of the Hawks, and explained the history of the dance and the Papua New Guinean connection to the Australian forces during the Kokoda campaign.

Acknowledging the Club’s support to the Kokoda Track Foundation, the troupe wished the playing group well in the lead-up to this Sunday’s Kokoda-themed match against Sydney.

Find out more about Kokoda, Round 10.



Hawks Coach Alastair Clarkson thanks the troupe for their wonderful performance.


The troupe begins with a chat accompanied by drumming.


The players enjoying the performance of the troupe.