Queensland State of Origin star Sam Backo has died at the age of 64, leaving behind a legacy as one of the game’s greats. He passed away on Sunday in his hometown of Cairns while surrounded by family. Backo had been battling a severe melioidosis infection in recent months and previously suffered a heart attack two years ago.
Backo was a key player during Queensland’s remarkable dominance in the late 1980s. He played seven State of Origin matches between 1988 and 1990, making a significant impact as a front-rower. Notably, he became the first front-rower to be awarded the man of the match title in two consecutive Origins, contributing to Queensland’s clean sweep of the series during his rookie year.
Remembering a Beloved Teammate
Colleagues and friends have paid tribute to Backo, recalling him as both an exceptional athlete and a cherished teammate. Gene Miles, who played alongside Backo for both the Brisbane Broncos and the Maroons, emphasized his unique blend of strength and agility on the field. “Sam was a wonderful player for Australia and Queensland, where he was always entertaining in our team bus with his dry humour,” Miles stated. “He was an old-fashioned front-rower but very quick for his size too. He always made plenty of yards every time he took the ball up.”
Backo made his debut for Queensland in 1988 and immediately established his prowess with two consecutive man of the match awards. His performance secured him a spot on the Australian national team, where he played six Tests in 1988 and 1989. In 2008, he was named to the Indigenous Team of the Century, recognizing his contributions to the sport.
Beyond his athletic achievements, Backo was known for his warm personality. “There was not a guy in Queensland camp that didn’t like Sam. He was such a loveable big unit,” Miles recalled. “We had a lot of fun with him. He had a special spot at the back of the team bus with all the big forwards.” Miles humorously shared how Backo and teammate Martin Bella would often complain about the heat generated in the bus when the front-rowers had their fun.
A Commitment to Community and Advocacy
After retiring from rugby league in 1990, Backo remained dedicated to supporting Indigenous communities. He engaged in community development programs, particularly aimed at assisting individuals upon their release from incarceration. His commitment to advocacy was deeply rooted in his heritage; born in Ingham, his mother, Dr. Evelyn Scott, was an influential Aboriginal rights activist involved in the landmark 1967 referendum, which granted citizenship rights to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
Reflecting on his identity, Backo once stated, “I am proud to be a north Queensland rainforest Murri. I was playing for my mob and for all the blackfellas. We came through the struggle and we stood up and were counted.” His pride in his heritage and contributions to the community resonated deeply with many.
The chairman of the ARL Commission, Peter V’landys, also expressed his condolences, highlighting Backo’s tenacity both on and off the field. “Sam was as tough as they come, a larger-than-life character who was as recognisable as he was resilient,” V’landys remarked. “Through a successful career with Canberra Raiders, Brisbane Broncos, not to mention Queensland and Australia, he was a one-of-a-kind footballer. A member of the Indigenous Team of the Century, Sam was also a generous and selfless man who was passionate about Indigenous health and advocacy away from the field.”
As tributes continue to pour in, the rugby league community mourns the loss of a beloved figure whose contributions to the sport and society will not be forgotten.
