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While waiting at the pharmacy this week, I spotted a gentleman engrossed in the Cassowary Coast LIFE crossword. A quick chat revealed he was Max Riipinen, born in Tully in 1944 to Finnish immigrant parents – and a former rugby league player with an impressive sporting history.
Max played for the Tully Tigers in the 1960s, representing Far North Queensland in 1966 and 1967 before heading to Sydney in 1968, where he played for the legendary St George Dragons. He later played for Brisbane Norths. More than half a century later, Max remainsconnected to his hometown and its proud rugby league heritage, with the Tully Tigers celebrating their centenary this year.
And at 82, he's still tackling challenges – although these days it's the LIFE crossword rather than opposition forwards!
Thanks for the chat, Max. A lovely reminder of the fascinating stories behind our readers.
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