Madang mourns Brother’s passing

 By KEVIN PAMBA

THE rugby league family in Madang and PNG has lost a long-time administrator and mentor, Br. Andrew Simpson MBE.

Originally from Sydney,  Australia, “Br Andrew” as he was affectionately known, passed away at his home at the Divine Word University campus in Madang on Wednesday night.

At the time of his passing, Br Andrew was the Vice-President of DWU in charge of student affairs.

The cause of Br Andrew’s death is yet to be established and his body is at Modilon General Hospital.

Br Andrew was recently appointed chairman of  the judiciary for the Madang Rugby League, a position he previously held in Madang and at the national level for the PNG Rugby Football League.

In April, Br Andrew played a key role in ensuring the Madang rugby league’s delayed annual general meeting (AGM) was held and new executives elected. 

He will be remembered for his many years of mentoring referees in PNG, particularly in Madang over the past 10 years.  Former Madang league president, Max Kitao who also worked with Br Andrew at the local competition also expressed shock about his passing.