Apisai Loaloadravu, Samuela Loaloadravu from the Yenda Blueheelers and Mewo Varasia from Griffith Black and Whites were part of the historic team that played in the Cabramatta International Nines.

For the Loaloadravu brothers, it is the second time they have been involved with international rugby league, and Vanuatu coach Dane Campbell said the Griffith group showed heart and determination.

“I have a very big passion for international rugby league and both of the Loaloadravu boys have done a bit with Fijian rugby league in the lead-up to the 2008 World Cup,” Campbell said.

“I remember both of them said in their player profiles they were born in Port Vila, Vanuatu and it’s something that stuck with me.

“So when this project came about I made some inquiries about if they were still playing and at what kind of level and whether they’d be interested in playing for Vanuatu and representing their nation of their birth.”

Campbell did not know what to expect from the locals, but predicted they could have a long career in the national colours.

“I was exceptionally impressed with all of them, when we started this process it was about identifying guys who were based in Australia that had links to Vanuatu,” he said.

“From that we were surprised the level some of these guys were playing at, in particular the three Griffith guys.

“We hadn’t seen much of them and we were taking the word of a few scouts, but we were very happy with how they performed.”

Samuela impressed officials so much he was awarded the team’s player’s player award for the tournament, which saw Vanuatu reach the final before losing against Australia 17-12.

“I think having that passion of playing for your country helped the guys get through some of the games where they didn’t think they could keep going.

“Samuela in particular was enormous on the day for us, people think because it’s nine-a-side that it’s easier, but because there’s less bodies on the field and in the heat of summer four minutes feels like a whole half.

Campbell said he will keep a close eye on the group during the Group 20 season ahead of another historic game later this year – Vanuatu’s first 13-a-side Test match.