PNGRFL: Late Tara Gau a gentle giant

PNG Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) Chairman, Sandis Tsaka has described the late Tara Gau as “a gentle giant”.

Tara Gau was PNG Kumul number 13 when he made his debut in the front row in PNG’s inaugural Test against England in 1975 in Port Moresby.

Gau, from Porebada played seven tests and retired in the late 1980s.

He was awarded Member of the British Empire (MBE) medal by the Queen in 1982 for his services and contributions to the sport of rugby league.

Tsaka said the passing of Gau had come as a shock to the rugby league community.

“He was a gentle giant. He was never aggressive. He played the game in the true spirit and his performances on the field spoke for itself.

“He was quiet off the field and this gained him a lot of respect from his team mates and especially his opponents.

“On behalf of the Directors, management and staff of the PNG Rugby Football League,we  express our sincere condolences to wife Konio, children and their families and relatives at Porebada and elsewhere for the loss of a wonderful rugby league player and role model,” said Tsaka.

Meanwhile, CEO of the PNGRFL, Bob Cutmore said the Hunters coach, Michael Marum, along with staff and some players will be attending Gau’s funeral tomorrow at Porebada.

“We owe it to this great rugby league player and to honour him past and current Kumuls will attend his funeral service.

“ I not only had the privilege of watching Tara’s leadership skills on Tour in France in 1979 but I also refereed him often in the old PRL days when he lead from the front in his beloved DCA jersey”

“We are planning a Kumul Old Boys get together later this year as part of our preparations to hosting next year’s World Cup and to lose Tara this early is a setback in our plans.

“Our condolences to his wife, children and relatives and may he rest in peace,” said Cutmore. 

Author: 
Troy Taule