The Australian Rugby community is mourning the loss of life member and former ARU treasurer Leslie John Howard OAM, who has passed away peacefully following a long illness aged 84.
Howard was a stalwart of rugby union in Australia, having been involved in administration since 1958.
He was an administrator and treasurer over an incredible legacy of 45 years (1975-2020). He was instrumental in creating the Australian Schools Foundation of which he was honoured with a Life Membership in 2020.
Credited with conceptualising the Rugby World Cup concept and its first competition held in Australia in 1987, Howard was also named as inaugural Hon treasurer.
In the early 1960’s he was the secretary of NSW Junior Rugby Union while he also became a referee, officiating first grade for a decade while also juggling his time as the secretary of the society of referees.
Howard became a board member for the Australian Rugby Union (ARU) in 1972 and held the role for 22 years, during which time he was Hon Treasurer for 17 years. He was made a life member of the ARU in 1988.
Howard was also involved with the Australian Barbarians, ensuring a proud Baa Baas tradition continues down under including two stints as secretary. Howard was later invited to become a Barbarian in 1974.
Along with being president of Randwick Rugby Club for 15 years, a highlight came in 1988 when Howard was the organiser of a match between Randwick and New Zealand - the only club game ever played against an international team in Australia.
Howard was rightly awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for services to Rugby in 1984.
Howard will be missed by many friends across the rugby community.
