A giant of Country Rugby League and legend of Orange CYMS club, Vic Byrne, has passed away. He was 92.
Byrne’s leadership and influence in the sport across western NSW was pivotal in him becoming a Life Member of the CRL (Country Rugby League), Western Division, and Group 10.
He was awarded Life Membership of the NSWRL in 1990 and served as CRL President from 1990-1998.
NSWRL Director Bob Walsh, who was Deputy Chair of the CRL (2015-2019), said many in Rugby League owed Byrne a vote of thanks for his experienced and guiding hand.
“He was a great advocate for Country Rugby League,” Walsh told nswrl.com.au
“He was a mentor to many people, who were club secretaries, presidents and on executive committees in the western region.
“I learnt a lot from him. Vic was very highly-respected and he was very approachable so lots of us benefitted from his insight and knowledge.
“It is sad to lose those historic figures from the game. But we’ll never forget their contribution and legacy.”
Byrne was also able to juggle club executive duties with those as a player.
He was a member of the undefeated Orange CYMS 1952 First Grade Premiership team, while he was serving as secretary (1951-52) of the club. Byrne was just 21-years-old.
He took over as President in 1953, while he helped Orange CYMS win the Clayton Cup the following year.
Byrne was awarded the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) in 2003 for his services to Rugby League.
The NSWRL would like to extend its condolences to Vic Byrne’s family and friends.
