Longbut daughter, dad bag awards
IT was a proud and memorable night for the Longbut family at the 2026 SP Sports Awards, as veteran sports broadcaster Terry Longbut received the prestigious Sports Media Award of the Year, while his daughter Dorna was named Female Para-Athlete of the Year.
The moment carried extra significance when Dorna accepted the Sports Media Award on behalf of her father, who is currently in Sydney, Australia, participating in a one-week National Rugby League (NRL) media tour alongside other Papua New Guinea rugby league journalists.
“My dad has been in the media industry for so long,” she said. “I’ve seen him doing what he loves with so much passion.
“ll Growing up, broadcasting was normal for me because that was what dad did every day,” she said.
“After all these years, I am really honoured and happy to see him finally being recognised by the sporting fraternity in Papua New Guinea.”
Dorna praised her father’s dedication, professionalism, and generosity, noting that his openness and support for colleagues have earned him widespread respect.
The award is a fitting recognition for one of Papua New Guinea’s most respected sports journalists and commentators.
For decades, Terry Longbut has been a familiar voice in Papua New Guinea sports, especially rugby league.
His passionate commentary and deep knowledge of the game have made him a favourite among fans nationwide.
Last year, he played a leading role in sports broadcasting through TVWan Sports News, delivering extensive coverage of rugby league, athletics, and other major sporting events.
He is best known as the lead commentator for PNG Hunters matches and the Digicel ExxonMobil Cup competitions across men’s, women’s, and junior divisions. His voice has also resonated through coverage of the QRL Hostplus Cup, Pacific Rugby League Championships, Pacific Cup, and Prime Minister’s XIII matches.
Through his commitment to promoting PNG sport and telling athletes’ stories, Longbut has inspired a new generation of sports fans and journalists.
The double recognition at the SP Sports Awards highlighted the Longbut family’s remarkable contribution to sports in Papua New Guinea.
