VALE ‘MR VALLEYS’

RUGBY LEAGUE: The local rugby league community is mourning the loss of local legend Max Higgins.

Affectionately known as “Mr Valleys”, Higgins plied his trade during one of the golden eras of the sport in Toowoomba in the 1950s.

Higgins made his way through the ranks at Valleys from a junior to A-grade.

His biggest achievements on the field included making three appearances for Queensland from 1952-53, and was considered unlucky to miss out on an Australian jersey, behind original Immortal Clive Churchill.

Another was his spot in the Toowoomba side that contested the Bulimba Cup, including wins in 1951 and 52.

Higgins served the Roosters as president from 1969-73, presiding over one of the most important decisions in club history, securing the grounds at Pillar St.

Current president Gary de Joux said the legacy left behind by life member Higgins will be immeasurable.

“He had a major impact on my time at the club. As soon as I was appointed president, Max was one of the first people I spoke with,” de Joux said.

“From the time I first spoke with him, he talked with pride and passion for the club, which was second to none.

“What he did, which is one of the most significant moves for the club, was he was one of the main drivers for Valleys getting the grounds in 1969.

“They were purchased for $9000, now they’re worth $6m, and has hopefully set us up for another hundred years.”

Higgins was a part of Valleys centenary celebrations last year, something that de Joux said was special.

“Having him as part of the 100-year celebrations made for a very memorable night,” he said.

“He’s a man that has been involved in some significant milestones for the club.”

Peter Rookas, who first met Higgins in the 1970s, said he was a gentle giant.

“Legendary people have said about him that he could punt a football nearly the length of the field,” Rookas said.

“I met him in the early 70s when I was writing football. He was a strong administrator.

“Years later he became an administrator at the Toowoomba Sports Club and did a terrific job there.

“He was a real gentleman, and you didn’t hear anybody say a bad word about him.”