Rugby league referee Shawn McQuillan collapses and dies during junior match

A junior rugby league referee has tragically died after suffering a medical episode during a game last weekend.

Four ambulances were called to Bycroft Oval on the Gold Coast just after 9am on Saturday when longtime referee Shawn McQuillan had fainted just minutes into an under-16s game between Southport Tigers and Runaway Bay Seagulls.

McQuillan was rushed to Gold Coast University Hospital in a life-threatening condition on Saturday but could not be saved.

He died around three hours after his collapse.

The passionate referee is being remembered as “a great friend and a great person” who “will be sorely missed”.

“Shawn had been an active member of our referee association for the past 14 years and loved refereeing,” the Gold Coast Rugby League Referees Association wrote on Sunday.

“Shawn liked being involved with our younger officials, often going out his way to coach and mentor their games to help them develop. He also coordinated our school appointments for the Titans and other schools competitions.

“Many of the Gold Coast members crossed paths regularly with Shawn and will remember him as a friendly face who always greeted you with a smile and was only too happy to help out.

“Our thoughts go out to Shawn’s family and his partner Tahlia.

“The GCRLRA sends our thanks and appreciation to the clubs and people who have reached out with their concerns and offers of support. Particularly, Runaway Bay’s volunteers who were on hand to offer assistance when the incident happened.”

Runaway Bay Junior Rugby League Football Club posted a tribute of their own on Monday.

“Our deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of Shawn McQuillan, who sadly passed away during one of our games on Saturday,” the club said.

“We, as a club, recognise that this unimaginable tragedy has, and will impact many of our players, staff and families. We would like to remind everyone that the club is here to support anyone affected and encourage you to reach out if you are in need.

“The club will be providing a safe place for players, staff and spectators to discuss and debrief.

“Lastly, please remember to ask R U OK and check in with your friends and loved ones.”

Both posts were flooded with messages of love and support for McQuillan and his family, including one from Mishel Megan, who worked with him.

“I’ve had the privilege of working alongside Shawn at YMCA and hand on heart he always made the days so much brighter,” she said.

“Such a genuine and humble man whom I’ll miss immensely... even though he sin-binned my son twice in one game. Oh how we laughed and laughed about that.

“I’m still half expecting to see your car at work tomorrow and for you to roll in through door — but you’re not.

“Rest easy Shawn and up the Warriors.”