Mackay Cutters sign Orchids prop for 2023 season

MACKAY Cutters have signed Papua New Guinea Orchids front rower Essay Banu for the 2023 Queensland Rugby League Women’s season.
The 20-year-old was part of the Wynnum Manly Seagulls last year.
Banu told The National yesterday that she moved from Brisbane to reside in Townsville and that playing for the Mackay side was fitting for her.
“I have moved up north near my home town Tully but residing in Townsville,” said Banu.
“I have signed a one-year deal with Mackay Cutters and I’m really excited. My goal this season is stay focused physically and mentally.
“I just want to play consistent week in week out and also off the field as well.
“My bigger goal is to earn a National Rugby League Women’s (NRLW) contract so I have to work hard on these areas.”
Banu, who comes from a mixed parentage of Australia, West Papua and Tatana village in Port Moresby, made her debut for the Orchids during the 2022 Rugby League World Cup in England in November.
The big front rower was instrumental in the Orchids run to the semifinal where they lost to Australia.
Banu played in all four games for the Orchids at the tournament.
She said the World Cup was a highlight of her career and wanted to take that form into the 2023 season with the Cutters.
“The World Cup was definitely an eye opener for me and I have definitely learnt hips of skills,” she said.
“With having that knowledge and experience, playing for the Orchids, I’m hoping to pass that on to wherever I go in my career.”