The rugby league community is grieving the loss of Chris Phelan, a two-time premiership-winning prop forward, who passed away in Brisbane on Tuesday at the age of 70 after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
Phelan, born in Ireland, emigrated to Australia in 1967 as a 12-year-old 'Ten Pound Pom' and was raised in Townsville. His rugby league journey began in north Queensland, where he won a Townsville premiership with Souths in 1975 alongside his brother Paddy.
After moving to Brisbane, he secured the 1981 premiership with Souths Magpies and represented Queensland in two State of Origin matches and two interstate games between 1981 and 1984.
Phelan's career peaked at Parramatta Eels, where legendary coach Jack Gibson recruited him for his toughness. Over 53 games from 1982 to 1984, he won back-to-back premierships in 1982 and 1983, playing alongside greats like Peter Sterling, Brett Kenny, and Ray Price.
Former teammate Pete Wynn paid tribute: 'He was a great trainer and player. He was as quick as any forward and a huge part of Parramatta's success. Chris was always respected by opposition players and played a big role during State of Origin's formative years.'
After a stint with Oldham in England, Phelan returned to Australia at age 30 and won another premiership with Souths Magpies in 1985 under Wayne Bennett. In 2008, he was named in the Souths Magpies team of the century.
His eldest daughter, Trina McColl, remembered him as the kindest, hardest-working man: 'He went out of his way for anyone. Family was everything to him. He built my grandmother's whole house. That's his lasting legacy.'
Parramatta Eels expressed their condolences and will honor Phelan by wearing black armbands during this weekend's match against the North Queensland Cowboys in Townsville.
