John Farragher, the former Penrith prop who became a quadriplegic, has died.
Farragher suffered a cardiac arrest last week and was unable to recover. He was 68.
Only seven games into his first grade career, a scrum collapsed on Farragher during a match against Newtown at Henson Park, causing extensive spinal damage.
Farragher spent the rest of his life in a wheelchair.
He has been a Panthers director since March, 2022 and worked on the front door at Panthers for more than 40 years.
“John Farragher was, and will always be, a cornerstone of the Panthers family,” Panthers Group chairman Peter Graham.
“His courage, warmth and commitment to our club inspired generations of players, staff and members.
“He was a true gentleman who represented everything our club stands for. We extend our deepest sympathies to John’s family and friends during this difficult time.”
Gilgandra-born Farragher was award an Order of Australia medal in the 2016.
A Panthers statement read: “After an extended period of rehabilitation, John’s resilience and determination saw him return to Panthers in 1982, where he took on a public relations role at Panthers Leagues club.
“For more than four decades, John became one of the most familiar and beloved faces at the club, warmly greeting members and guests and embodying the true spirit of the Panthers community.
“John’s contribution to the Panthers extends far beyond his playing career, reflected in the respect and affection he earned from everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
“The thoughts of everyone at the Penrith Panthers are with John’s family and friends.”
