FORMER NRL legend, Coffs Harbour Comets coach and foundation member of North Coast’s Men of League, Jim Cody sadly passed away at the age of 79 last week.

Cody‘s stellar career of 128 First Grade matches for the Western Suburbs in the 1960s and 70s included a debut at the age of eighteen and a First Grade Grand Final.

Jim capped off a magnificent career with captain and coach roles at Nambucca Heads, Griffith, Goulburn United, Coffs Harbour Jetty, Coffs Harbour, Woolgoolga and Sawtell Panthers

After retiring from the NRL, Jim settled in Coffs Harbour where his son’s Matt and Adam won an under 18s premiership in 1991.

After his playing and coaching career, Cody continued to serve the community and touched the lives of many through the Men of League where he was a foundation member at the North Coast division.

Men of League foundation member Peter Barrett reflected on the sad loss of a fallen hero.

“Jim was a great Western Suburbs Magpies legend and rated by Arthur Beetson as the toughest forward he played against,” he said.

“Jim was always available to visit hospitals, nursing and retirement homes for those not travelling well and lifting their spirits reliving old rugby league games.

“He was also a selector for North Coast Group 2 picking the winning super league team.

“He only retired five years ago from a successful plastering company with Bill Ross,” said Barrett.

By David WIGLEY