Former Newtown Jets President Barry Vining dies celebrating historic win

The Newtown Jets are mourning the loss of their longtime president, Barry Vining, who tragically passed away after suffering a heart attack while celebrating the team’s historic win.

Newtown Jets Rugby League Club outgoing Club President Barry Vining died at his home on Sunday. Picture: John Appleyard

The Newtown Jets are mourning the loss of their longtime president, Barry Vining, who tragically passed away after suffering a heart attack while celebrating the team’s historic 28-22 grand final victory over the North Sydney Bears on Sunday. 

Vining, who had led the Jets for 32 years, was watching the game from home with his wife Vicki and family when he jumped up in excitement following the win. 

Moments later, he collapsed and, despite the best efforts of paramedics, sadly did not survive.

Rob, a close friend of Barry’s, broke the news to 2GB’s Ben Fordham on Monday morning.

“He was so excited, he’s 85 now, he was so excited that it literally gave him a heart attack and sadly he was with his lovely wife Vicki and his family all watching at home there,” he said on 2GB radio.

Vining kept the club alive through the 1980s and helped rebuild the team. Picture: John Appleyard

“They’ve had to work on him as much as they could, an ambulance was called and they worked on him and sadly he didn’t make it.”

While the Jets community grieves, Rob emphasised how fitting it was for Barry to pass during such a pivotal moment for the team he cherished so dearly. 

The Jets won the grand final in the NSWRL Knock on cup against North Sydney. Picture Warren Gannon

“I don’t think he could have orchestrated it any better, if he had to go I think that would’ve been the way for Barry absolutely,” he said on 2GB. 

“I know it’s a sad time when someone passes but if Barry was to go I don’t think he could have arranged it any better… he lived for that team and that club.” 

Terry Rowney and Barry Vining at Henson Oval. Picture: Mitch Cameron

Barry Vining grew up in Camperdown, a neighbourhood associated with rugby league legend Johnny Raper, and became involved with the Newtown RLFC in the late 1970s. 

He served as a director starting in 1980 and became president in 1986, playing a crucial role in keeping the club alive during its difficult years from 1984 to 1990 when it had no teams. 

Under his leadership, Newtown re-entered rugby league in 1991, achieved significant success in the 1990s and won the NSW Cup in 2012. 

Vining’s presidency is celebrated as a vital part of the club’s survival and resilience in the sport.

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