Sport
14 January, 2025
Peter Cavanagh retires from district footy
After 58 years of participating in all aspects of Warwick and District Rugby League Peter Cavanagh is officially winding up his formal involvement in the game.
Cavanagh had been there since day dot, coming through the grades as a player and referee, before spending his time in coaching and administration, enjoying 30 years as chairman.
The retired Allora dairy farmer said he was “lucky enough to have the opportunity to be part of it”, particularly enjoying working with the juniors, making sure they left the game with good memories and values of teamwork and being gracious winners and losers.
“I was only 16 when they formed Warwick & District and I’ve been part of it ever since. I’ve had three goes at being chairman,” he said.
“I was playing in the seniors, 16s and 18s and I was 21 when I took up refereeing.
“I don’t think I was a world-beater, but I enjoyed doing it and gave that away for seniors at 33 when I bought the farm (at Allora) off my father.
“I still kept refereeing and coaching juniors.
“I tried to work with people. You get a lot further with sugar than you do with salt, as the old saying goes.”
Cavanagh can attest to the fact you don’t have to be from the big city to make it big, having a role in supporting countless talents who went on to play NRL, State of Origin, Tests and even rugby union internationals.
One of those he proudly watched bang down the door to reach the top was Shane Webcke, who continues to give back after his illustrious career.
“Shane has put a lot back into the country, he’s been very good in our area.
“He always kept his nose clean and played good, bloody tough football.
“He came through in one of the best eras we had in our local area.”
Cavanagh still plans to give time volunteering to Wattles rugby league club, impressed by the efforts former NRL player Travis Burns has put in at the club giving back to the game as a coach.
