Terry FEARNEY

1933 – 2015

Sadly, news from Gary Lester that former Western Suburbs Coach,
TERRY FEARNLEY has passed away.

Terry coached Wests to the 1982 semi-finals in his only year with
the Magpies.

Terry had previously coached at Parramatta, but was in Cessnock when
Wests afforded him the opportunity to return to First Grade ranks.
His coaching career blossomed from there.

A complete gentlemen, from my experience, who brought a calmness
and professionalism to coaching.

Terry coached NSW twice. Pre-Origin in 1977, when he famously replaced
Steve Mortimer with Tom Raudonikis in a Brisbane game that NSW seemed
destined to lose. Tommy’s “cattle dog” fixed that!

Fearnley returned as NSW Coach in 1985, gaining NSW’s first Origin Series win.

Terry also coached Australia in 1977 and 1985.

He had played 144 First Grade games at Easts from 1954-1964.

Terry Fearnley brings his team home in 1963.

Terry Fearnley Captain of Easts 1963.

 

His front row partner for much of that time was his life long friend Jack Gibson.
Terry made one appearance for the Sky Blues in 1960.

I had the opportunity of having morning tea with Terry and his wife late last year.
Despite well and truly being aware of his fate, Terry displayed his customary humour
and good will during a morning of wonderful rugby league reminiscences. During the
chat, Terry displayed a keen concern for the current state of the game.

Terry’s nephew is the internationally successful wheel chair athlete Kurt Fearnley.

Kurt left is a dual Magpie Award winner.