Terry Cook

Terry Cook epitomises the Queenslander spirit of never giving up.

In 12 remarkable months, back-rower Cook went from the possibility of his first-grade career coming to an end, to being part of the most remarkable Maroons' clean sweep in 1995.

Cook’s league journey saw him represent Toowoomba Clydesdales against Great Britain in 1988, from the Gatton club. The following year he toured France with the Greg Reynolds' coached Queensland Residents' side. He stayed in the northern hemisphere after the tour, for a stint with English club, Bramley.

The following year he represented New South Wales Country against City at the Sydney Football Stadium. Cook was playing his club football with Beaudesert, which was part of the cross border, Gold Coast / Northern Rivers' competition, making him eligible for NSW Country.

It was the proudest moment of my time. You can’t beat that, especially for a bloke from the bush who was never the greatest player.

Terry Cook FOG #90

Gold Coast Seagulls recruited Cook in 1991, and he spent four seasons with the Tweed Heads-based club, before picking up a contract at the Brisbane-based South Queensland Crushers, after Kiwi international, Richie Blackmore changed his mind about taking up a contract.

Cook started the 1995 season in reserve grade, but forced his way into the top team, and earned selection for Queensland as a utility player, given he could play in the forwards, or at centre.

He played all three games in the famous series triumph, setting up a try for halfback, Adrian Lam in the second match at the MCG.

Cook had one more season with the Crushers, before playing Queensland Cup with Norths Devils.

After that he remained part of grassroots footy, at places such as Dalby and Pittsworth, playing his last game of football, aged 44.

A long-serving publican at Jondaryan, Cook also went on to commentate on Toowoomba Rugby League fixtures for local radio, and has been heavily involved with Men of League Foundation.