Ronny Gibbs earned a reputation as the toughest man in rugby league at a time when hard cases of the old school were in abundance, winning a premiership with Manly in 1987.

Dubbo Photo News spent some time with the Bourke legend that they used to call “Rambo” — after the crazed Vietnam veteran movie character of the 1980s — in recognition of his fierce tackling style and fearless running with the ball, at a recent Families of League Golf Day.

The always modest but honest speaker was asked who was the toughest player he faced, in an era of iron-men in rugby league; Les Boyd, Les Davidson, David “Cement” Gillespie or wild man, Gordon Tallis. His simple answer: “ask them who they think was the hardest”!

On his playing style he remarked: “I just loved hurting people; on his generosity, going out of his way to help those in need he added: “I just love helping others”!

Ronny is beloved universally out west, where he spends most of his time, encouraging, mentoring, and training youngsters in: “the encyclopaedia of life”.

Put the date in your diary to celebrate the inspirational journey of a good bloke.