Duglas Waldon tribute: Queensland rugby legend remembered after death

A legendary player, manager and coach from a historic Queensland rugby league club has been remembered as a “caring” mentor after his recent death.

Norths Devil No. 194 Duglas Waldon.

One of Queensland rugby league’s most storied clubs is in mourning after the death of one of their greats.

Norths Devils legend and life member Duglas Waldon, who started as a junior in 1946 and played all the way through seniors until retirement, has sadly passed away.

A centre turned second row, Waldon was a volatile and aggressive player, who was often involved in some scuffles on the field but was heavily skilled as well.

Rivalry with other clubs really got his juices going, Waldon well respected by all across the Brl juniors organisation due to his competitive nature.

He loved his footy, playing in the Shift Workers League for Hamiltons - a competition running parallel to the Brisbane league - meaning his whole weekend was occupied with the sport.

Waldon’s son Noel said his dad was a mentor and support person, who guided many young footballers.

“He coached many good young players and loved helping them improve,” he said.

“One of his brood was Neville Draper, a Rothman’s Gold medal winner who contacted Dug to say he would never have reached those achievements without his support.

“He was seen in junior league circles as a tough coach but a caring enthusiastic league lover, coaching very successfully at club and representative levels.

“Dad loved coaching for the challenge of developing a winning team but was more interested in developing good people and he saw sport as a means of doing so.

“He thought that to have young men at training no matter their ability gave them a new or additional family and gave them an avenue to expend their energies that was productive, rather than getting up to mischief.

“From the responses we have had to our loss, it will be felt be many. The messages are wonderful and it helps us realise how many young men he helped shape.”

Waldon, a key figure in Norths’ club history and player No. 194 for the club, was recognised as a legend in 1976 after being awarded with Devils life membership for his service and commitment to the club.

Norths Devils president Michael Crutcher said the club was sad to see a legend go.

“The Devils celebrate our 90th anniversary in 2023 and it’s only because of the contributions of the likes of Dug that we can reach the milestone in such good health as a club,” Crutcher said.

Norths celebrating back-to-back Queensland Cup premierships. Picture: Bradley Kanaris/Getty Images

“Dug was tireless in his work for the Devils in so many ways. We are privileged that his name sits on our club honour board as Devil No. 194.

“We are pleased that the club could deliver first grade premierships in Dug’s final two years with us.

“It’s the first time we have won back-to-back premierships since 1963/64 – an era when Dug was integral to our club’s success.

“He is one of several legends of this club who we have farewelled in the last two premiership years.

“Among them were Bill Pearson, simply one of the greatest Devils ever to represent our club, and Tommy Raudonikis, a legend of rugby league and forever a part of our Devils club.

“We send our condolences to the Waldon family and our sincerest thanks for all that their family has done for Norths Devils,” Crutcher said.

A memorial service will be held at noon on December 21 at Albany Creek Crematorium.