QRL announce Canavan as new chair

The Queensland Rugby League is pleased to confirm the appointment of its new chairperson following the announcement that stalwart Bruce Hatcher will retire at the end of October.

South East chair Brian Canavan takes over the helm from November 1, ensuring the QRL’s leadership team maintains a wealth of rugby league experience and a strong connection to all levels of the game.

Canavan’s involvement in the sport has covered the areas of management, coaching, junior participation development, and strength and conditioning.

The Warwick-born administrator played and coached with the Valleys club in Brisbane for 12 years, a grounding that helped shape his input into some of biggest clubs in the National Rugby League.

He has worked full-time in rugby league for more than 30 years, holding numerous senior management positions including NRL club chief operating officer, chief executive officer, director of football and NRL governing body head of football.

As a renowned footy tragic with a passion for supporting volunteers, Canavan returned to grassroots rugby league with QRL South East in 2020.

The following year Canavan was appointed as the chair of the South East board, a position he will relinquish when he commences the role of QRL chair in November.

“It’s a privilege to be given this role,” Canavan said.

"The QRL has a long and proud history and is responsible for a significant part of rugby league across the state.

“Our brand brings pride and joy to our communities, from grassroots to elite sport performance.

“Like everyone else within the organisation, I’m committed to making our game the best it can be. I look forward to continuing my involvement with the Board and CEO Ben Ikin and staff.”

Hatcher will complete his third term as the chair of the QRL on October 31, having assumed the top post in 2017 following a long period of service as an independent director.

As a passionate Queenslander with a proud life-long connection to the game, Hatcher has consistently fought for the best interests of all stakeholders during his time as a rugby league administrator.

Canavan acknowledged Hatcher’s immense contribution to the game.

“I’ve got very big shoes to fill,” he said.

“I’ve learnt enormously off Bruce and I’ll continue to lean on him during our handover period which is an important part of the succession phase the board has identified.”