Dick Poole, Australia’s oldest living Kangaroo, dies aged 94

Newtown and NSW player and Australia’s first captain-coach Dick Poole passed away surrounded by family at his Ashfield nursing home.

Dick Poole playing for Newtown in 1953.

Dick Poole, Australia’s oldest living Kangaroo, has died. He was 94.

Poole was surrounded by family when he passed away of natural causes at his Ashfield nursing home.

Born in 1930, Poole died late last week with mourners attending his funeral on Friday.

Poole was a surprise choice as Australia’s captain-coach for the 1957 World Cup, the first held in Australia.

Poole turned 94 last year. Picture: Rohan Kelly

The Australian side under Poole included legends Harry Wells, Brian Carlson, Keith Barnes and Keith Holman.

Poole played 13 Tests for Australia.

The Daily Telegraph wrote a tribute story to celebrate Poole’s 94th birthday in November.

“Ninety-four – not many make it,” Poole said.

Born Herbert Richard Poole, Poole played 115 first grade games for Newton between 1950 and 1958 – his last four as captain-coach – before spending two seasons at Wests where he posted another 31 top-level matches.

A top-line centre, Poole finished with 146 NSWRL games, which included 59 first grade tries and 177 points. He was also captain-coach of NSW.

Poole (ball) during a representative game in late 1940s.

“I was captain-coach of Australia – there’s nothing better than playing for Australia. It was a great honour,” he said. “We loved each other’s company – that’s how we won. I ran hard and always looked for support.”

Former Australian player Harry Wells, 92, who lives in Port Macquarie, is now the oldest Kangaroo.

Poole returned to Newtown as head coach between 1966 and 1968 and was later named in the club’s team of the century.

Originally published as Dick Poole, Australia’s oldest living Kangaroo, dies aged 94