In a condolence message to Mrs Dulcie Piniau and family, Secretary General of the PNG Sports Federation, Sir John N Dawanincura, recalled many good memories spanning some 41 years ago when he and late Sam Piniau first represented PNG in Rugby Union in the South Pacific Games in Noumea in 1966 and again in 1969. He could not recall him playing any other position except hooker both at club and international level.

He became life member of the PNG Sports Federation & Olympic Committee because of his contribution to the organisation. "He was indeed a solid rock (as demonstrated in his rugby days) regardless of the circumstances and I am sure that those who will speak today will pay tribute to a man who was a quiet achiever in his professional and sporting career."

[Source: Papua New Guinea Sports Federation and Olympic Committee]