Ray ‘Wagga’ Johnson, a hard man from Newcastle rugby league

Ray ‘Wagga’ Johnson has been experiencing health issues for the last couple of years after having a leg amputated a few years ago.

Recently, Ray was visited at home by Newcastle Hunter Wellbeing Officers David Turrell, Vince Murphy and Gary Drummond after having several toes amputated from his foot.

Ray started his rugby league career in 1954 playing juniors with Western Suburbs (Newcastle). He also represented Newcastle in the under 16s and 18s before playing grade with Wests from 1958 to 1964, mostly playing First Grade as a hard hitting second rower. Ray then plied his trade in the bush as a player/coach in Bingarra before returning to Wests (Newcastle) for a couple of years. Ray was also picked in the West Newcastle Team of the Century.

Ray continued his career as a player/player coach in Wauchope, Cessnock, Lakes United, Temora, Casino and Macquarie United. He played in Newcastle representative sides against New Zealand, South Africa and England. Ray also represented Newcastle against many Country teams during his career.

Our volunteers wish Ray a speedy recovery and were glad provide a visit from fellow members of the rugby league community.