Dowling on leave after storming out
Hess his own worst critic after big defeat
AN explosive argument between Northern Pride chairman Tony Williamson and CEO Greg Dowling has led to the legendary prop taking sudden leave as revelations of discontent within the club have emerged.
Multiple sources have confirmed Williamson met with Dowling last week to discuss his performance in the role before the two launched into a heated row, with the former Maroons legend storming out of the meeting. Dowling has since taken leave from the club and at Tuesday’s weekly press conference, coach Ty Williams said Dowling was on holiday.
But the Cairns Post understands the club’s board had been keen to raise several issues with the ex-State of Origin star before he stalled the process by walking out on Williamson. Dowling’s managerial style has been privately questioned by the Pride since he started in the role in late 2016, with the former player struggling to build strong relationships with the club’s sponsors and players.
The Pride’s board held an ordinary meeting yesterday, with QRL chairman Bruce Hatcher in attendance, to discuss the key requirements the club must meet in order to hold a licence in 2019.
Hatcher was reluctant to discuss the circumstances of Dowling’s leave but said he had faith in the board to act in the best interests of the club.
“I really don’t want to comment too much on that,” Hatcher said. “The QRL doesn’t employ him (Dowling). How the Pride are dealing with that is truly their business.
“What I will say is that they’re very aware of the need for clubs to be well managed.
“They’ve got a lot of corporate sponsors and they need to manage those relationships well.
“It’s not the end of the world but the fact is the issue needs to be addressed and I’m sure their plans are well advanced.”
Dowling did not respond to calls from the Cairns Post prior to deadline.