NRL Tributes flow as first Maroons coach John McDonald dies

Queensland rugby league icon and inaugural Maroons State of Origin coach John McDonald has died after a wonderful career as a player, coach and administrator.

McDonald, universally and affectionately known as ‘Cracker’, was 79 when he passed away yesterday in his home town Toowoomba.

His achievements were many but guiding Queensland to a 20-10 win over NSW as coach in the first State of Origin game in 1980 has been hailed by Maroons greats Wally Lewis and Chris Close as crucial.

“John was given the most challenging job of all in 1980 and his achievement in ensuring Queensland won that game was imperative to the reputation and future of State of Origin football,” Lewis told AAP.

A devastating centre and winger, McDonald played 13 Tests for Australia and made 10 interstate appearances for Queensland. He…