Gary Coyne

Gary Coyne enjoyed a fascinating league career, sprinkled with trophies, tries and honours.

A proud Booval Swifts product, Coyne represented Ipswich as a five-eighth in the Country Championships in Townsville in 1981, playing outside Cliff Langer, brother of Allan.

Coyne's impressive form saw him selected for Queensland Country, for a match against City.

He signed with Wynnum Manly in 1983 and the tireless second-rower / prop was a part of their 1984 premiership win, alongside Maroon royalty, Wally Lewis and Gene Miles.

That first game, at Lang Park, I still remember my chest burning with adrenalin as I ran out, it was every Queenslanders dream come true.

Gary Coyne FOG #62 on his State of Origin debut

After a stint in France, Coyne signed with Canberra Raiders, in 1986. While the likes of fellow Queenslanders, Mal Meninga, Gary Belcher and Steve Walters grabbed the headlines, Coyne’s non-stop efforts in the pack, made him a crucial part of the 'Green Machine'.  

He played second row in the Raiders’ 1989 and 1990 premiership triumphs, overcoming food poisoning to take his place in the extra-time, 1989 classic.

That same year he made his State of Origin debut, off the bench in Game I of the series at Lang Park.

He went on to play 10 more matches for his state.

Coyne toured Papua New Guinea with the Australian side in 1991, playing in both Tests.  

In retirement, Coyne’s work ethic has been reflected in his success as a businessman.