Rugby league legend Royce Simmons has been awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the sport as both a player and coach.
Simmons had a distinguished career with the Penrith Panthers, playing 237 first-grade games and captaining the team from 1983 to 1990. He played a key role in the club’s maiden premiership victory in 1991, later coaching the side and earning induction into the Hall of Fame in 2016. Beyond the field, Simmons has dedicated himself to an even greater cause. After being diagnosed with dementia in 2022 at the age of 61, he founded the Royce Simmons Foundation to raise funds for dementia research—an initiative he considers his proudest achievement.
Expressing his gratitude, Simmons acknowledged the unwavering support of his local community, which continues to rally behind his efforts.
Click below to read the full article in the Western Weekender:
Locals honoured as part of Australia Day celebrations
