Brad Tessman

A livewire forward with a great off-load, Brad Tessmann earned respect wherever he played with his unassuming, modest persona and great work ethic.

A Kingaroy junior, Tessmann made his Queensland and Australian debuts from Souths Magpies in Brisbane in 1983, playing all three Origin matches and representing his country against New Zealand at Lang Park.

His co-prop in that Trans-Tasman Test was another South Burnett product, Dave Brown. Tessmann also toured Papua New Guinea and England with Queensland that year.

He had joined Souths in 1980, and credits coach, Bob McCarthy, one of Australia's all-time great forwards, with playing a huge role in his rise to the top.

Tessmann missed Souths 1981 grand final win over Redcliffe because of injury, but was there in 1982 when the Magpies lost 17-3 to a star-studded Wynnum Manly side in the decider.

Tessmann switched to Redcliffe in 1984, and from there was selected in the Oceania team to play a European selection in Paris, to celebrate 50 years of rugby league in France.

He joined Easts in Sydney in 1985, and in 1986 returned to Origin duty for the second and third games of the series.

To play for Queensland was unbelievable. Paul Vautin was my first room mate, and it was great to have him for my debut game."

Brad Tessmann FOG #36

Tessmann played for Brisbane Broncos in their inaugural season in the NSWRL in 1988, and worked as a development officer for the club.

He maintained his links with rugby league after his playing days, including a stint as Queensland under 17s coach in 1999.

He also has worked tirelessly for the game in the Northern Territory, where he has held a number of positions, including chairman of Central Australia Rugby League.

His English born wife, Pippa, is a prominent physiotherapist in Alice Springs.