St Marys Rugby League Club Appoints New President

This significant leadership transition follows the recent retirement of esteemed long-standing President Warren Smith OAM, who retired from his role as president after 38 years on 9 March 2024.

The appointment has seen the following key changes made to the newly reconfigured board: 

1. David Cartwright President 
2. Ron Coskerie Senior Vice President 
3. John Burns Vice President 
4. Steve Shearer newly appointed Board Director.

The Cartwright name is synonymous with Saints. David’s father, Merv Cartwright, was Secretary of the Junior League and coached sides in the 1970s. Like David, all his siblings, including rugby league international John Cartwright and sister Mary, played rugby league for the Club, as did David’s two sons, Ben and Bryce Cartwright.

With an impressive 55 years of active involvement in the Club, David Cartwright brings a rich legacy to his new position. As a former player, he received the highest accolade — the Club’s prestigious Life Member’s Trophy. Beyond his playing days, David made substantial contributions by coaching, training and mentoring junior league sides. His nearly quarter-century service on the Junior League Committee exemplifies his dedication. 

In 1997, David was elected to the Board, and in 2013 he was appointed Vice President. His unwavering commitment to the Club was further recognised in 2005 when he was given Life Membership as voted by the members. 

David’s commitment to rugby league extends beyond Saints and his influence in rugby league and leagues clubs is evident; underscored by his recent appointment to the Board of Leagues Clubs Australia. Now, as President of the St Marys Rugby League Club Board, he will lead Saints into an exciting new era.

During the recent Season Launch, David expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, acknowledged the extremely big shoes he must now fill and welcomed Steve Shearer to the Saints family.

“Steve’s appointment continues a proud tradition of the next generation following in their fathers’ footsteps,” David said.

“Notably the Dicker brothers, Simon and Ben, who carry forward the legacy of their father, Tony Dicker, our inaugural President; and Senior Vice President Ron Coskerie carrying forward the mantle of his Dad, affectionately known as ‘Cossie’.”

Steve Shearer’s association with Saints began over 40 years ago when he donned the mighty green and white jersey for over 200 games, later volunteering as a trainer for various junior league sides and Assistant Coach of the A Grade. Now, Steve proudly follows in the footsteps of his father, Brian Shearer who was a Board member for some 10 years under Warren Smith’s presidency.