Vale Gary Mickle

Tue, Jul 21, 2020, 7:21 AM
Rugby WA Media
by Rugby WA Media

RugbyWA life member and legend of Western Australian Rugby Gary Mickle has passed away yesterday at the age of 82 after suffering from a long illness.

After over 50 years of service to rugby in Western Australia it is fair to say Mickle would have one of the strongest playing records in rugby in the world.

Beginning his rugby career in 1958, Mickle played competitive rugby until 2008 until he officially hung up the boots after running out with the Palmyra fifth grade side at the age of 70 with his two sons, Shane and David at his side.

This would be the only match where all three would play in the same side with Shane playing for the Dunsborough Dungbeetles in the South West and David playing for Perth Bayswater.

This historic final match would only happen a year after one of Mickle’s greatest achievements, being carried off the field at Perry Lakes after winning his Palmyra team the 5th Grade Premiership title playing in his favourite position, tight-head prop.

The list of Mickle’s accomplishments in Western Australian rugby would be too long to count however some of his major achievements in the game include:

  • 55 Caps for the Western Australian state side
  • One Wallaby trial
  • 500 Premier Grade Caps
  • Over 1,000 Club Rugby appearances
  • P.G. Hampshire Winner in 1956
  • Life Member, RugbyWA
  • Life Member, Palmyra Rugby Club

Mickle was described by his peers as a tough, no-nonsense individual who thrived in the rugby environment.

Mickle also played six seasons with Nedlands Rugby Club as vice-captain from 1967-1972 where he had four grand-final appearances and one Premiership win in 1970 before returning to his home club, Palmyra.

Mickle has also remained active at Palmyra Rugby Club included taking up the club presidency role, he was always a regular supporter of the club and will be sorely missed at Palmyra for many years to come.

RugbyWA and the RugbyWA Community send their condolences to June and the entire Mickle Family.


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