Eels Great Luke Burt Set for NRL Return in Exciting PNG Chiefs Venture
Parramatta Eels legend Luke Burt is set to embark on the next chapter of his rugby league journey after officially signing with the PNG Chiefs as an assistant coach for their inaugural 2028 NRL campaign.
The 44-year-old, widely regarded as one of the most reliable and underrated wingers of his era, toured Port Moresby earlier this month before the Chiefs confirmed his appointment. Burt becomes the first member of Willie Peters’ coaching staff to be unveiled, with his role commencing in November 2027 following the conclusion of his commitments with the Burleigh Bears.
Best remembered for his deadly goal-kicking ability and consistency on the wing, Burt played 264 NRL games for Parramatta and built a reputation for turning tries into six points from almost impossible angles. While his playing career earned admiration across the league, his transition into coaching has quietly become just as impressive.
After retiring in 2012, Burt served in assistant coaching roles with Parramatta and the Gold Coast Titans. In 2019, he and Craig Hodges briefly stepped in as interim co-coaches of the Titans following the sacking of Garth Brennan, gaining valuable senior coaching experience.
Burt joined Queensland Cup powerhouse Burleigh Bears in 2021 as an assistant under Rick Stone before taking over as head coach in 2023. His impact was immediate, leading the Bears to a minor premiership in his first season and later guiding the club to a Queensland Cup premiership in 2025. Under his leadership, Burleigh developed a reputation for discipline, resilience, and strong player development.
PNG Chiefs football boss Michael Chammas praised Burt’s appointment, saying the club was excited not only by his decorated playing career but also by the culture and success he has created as a coach.
Despite securing his future with the Chiefs, Burt remains committed to Burleigh through the end of the 2027 season, insisting his full focus remains on achieving more success with the Bears before beginning his new venture.
Meanwhile, fans are already speculating about what Burt’s future could hold beyond PNG. Social media user Liam Seneca described Burt as a “Parra legend” and one of the game’s most underrated players, suggesting that if the Jason Ryles era fails to deliver at Parramatta, Burt could one day emerge as a genuine contender to coach the Eels after completing his apprenticeship under Willie Peters at the Chiefs.
