A man who dedicated decades to rugby league on the Sunshine Coast is being remembered.
Former president of Rugby League Sunshine Coast Les Williams died aged 77 after making years of “commitment and tireless service to the game” in the region.
The local association acknowledged the lasting impacts of his service.
“Les’ passion for rugby league and his contribution to the growth and development of our great game will always be remembered and appreciated,” the group stated.
“Heartfelt condolences to Les Williams’ family and friends. What a wonderful contribution to rugby league that will never be forgotten.”
Mr Williams received RLSC life membership in 2019 and was inducted into the association’s Hall of Fame.
The Queensland Rugby League stated, in an online tribute, that he helped build the game on the Sunshine Coast.
The QRL extended “its sincere condolences to Les’ family, friends and everyone who shared in his life and love of rugby league”.
The QRL also highlighted his efforts to develop a strategic plan to lobby the local council for a rugby league club at Nirimba more than a decade before the Nirimba Hurricanes played their inaugural season in 2022. The club started with teams from under 6s to under 9s, providing new opportunities for local children to play the game.
The Nambour Rugby League Club also paid tribute to Mr Williams, who was awarded life membership there and was president.
“He loved his rugby league and made an outstanding contribution to both our club and to the wider Sunshine Coast rugby league community.
“Les was highly regarded and respected by all at Crushers and a good friend to all who knew him.”
Mr Williams’ funeral will be held on at Traditional Funeral Homes, Burpengary, on Wednesday, November 4 at 2.30pm, and will be livestreamed.
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