The legacy of former Brisbane chief executive and managing director Shane Edwards has been remembered fondly after his death following a battle with motor neurone disease (MND).
Edwards, who was 67, guided the Broncos through one of their most successful and challenging periods from 1995 to 2002, winning three premierships while he was at the helm.
The Super League title of 1997 and NRL premierships in 1998 and 2000 were won by the club under his stewardship.
Edwards, who died on Thursday afternoon from the insidious MND, was highly regarded for his warmth and humanity as much as for his leadership.
He was a rugby league visionary, who also served as chairman of the Brisbane Tigers, and was a central figure in their drive to be part of an expanded competition under the Brisbane Firehawks banner in 2021.
The license was ultimately granted to the Dolphins, who entered the competition as the 17th NRL side in 2023.
Current Broncos chief Dave Donaghy paid tribute to a leader who was universally liked and respected by the media, players, staff, coaches, members and supporters who came in contact with him.
The Brisbane Broncos are deeply saddened by the passing of former Managing Director and CEO Shane Edwards, who died on Thursday afternoon following his battle with Motor Neurone Disease.
— Brisbane Broncos (@brisbanebroncos) August 29, 2026
Our thoughts are with Shane's wife Sue, his family and loved ones at this difficult time.… pic.twitter.com/DA4orz6tqj
"Whenever you speak to people who were at the Broncos during Shane's time here, the first thing they talk about isn't the premierships or his position as managing director, they talk about Shane as a person," Donaghy said.
"He was someone people genuinely liked being around. He had a warmth and generosity about him and treated people well, regardless of their role or position. That's why there is such genuine affection for Shane right across our club and the game.
"He was at the helm during a really important period in the Broncos' history and there's no question he was incredibly proud of what the club achieved, but I think his legacy is equally reflected in the relationships he built and maintained."
Donaghy offered condolences and said the thoughts of everyone at the Broncos were with Edwards' wife Sue, his family and loved ones.
"One of the special things about this club is that the people who have helped shape it remain part of its story long after their official roles have finished. Shane is very much one of those people," Donaghy said.
"Shane made an enormous contribution to this club, but more importantly he made an enormous impression on the people within it."
