The NRL has been saddened following the passing of former leading referee John Gocher at the age of 81.
Mr Gocher officiated in 178 first-grade matches in a distinguished career from 1976 through to 1986.
He refereed the 1982 grand final beween Parramatta and Manly, as well as finals of the midweek competition in 1981 (Tooth Cup) and 1982 (KB Cup).
He controlled two Test matches between Papua New Guinea v New Zealand in 1982 and 1983 and two Tests between France and Great Britain in 1984
He also had charge of Game Two of the 1983 State of Origin series at the SCG and would later serve in over 100 NRL games video referee.
“John was an outstanding match official. Included in his long list of honours were the 1982 Grand Final, as well as State of Origin in 1983," said NRL head of football elite competitions Graham Annesley.
“He refereed with integrity and authority.
“John was one of the top referees of his era, and the thoughts of the entire game go out to John’s family at this difficult time.”
