It is with great sadness that we advise of the passing of Russell Adams, former RLPA Chair. Russell served on the Board from 2015 until 2018 and as Chair from 2016 to 2018.
Russell was instrumental in the evolution of the RLPA, overseeing and implementing governance reform as well as guiding the organisation to new heights during a transition period and the securing of significant improvements under the 2018-2022 Collective Bargaining Agreement. Russell had an illustrious professional career prior to joining the RLPA and we were extremely fortunate to have the services of such an intelligent, experienced and professional Chair and advisor.
Russell was a man of great integrity and selflessness. His knowledge was vast. He was resilient and tough, but always measured with a deep conviction for fairness and justice. He was a great mentor to the young executive team at the time of his Chairmanship, and will be sorely missed by all who worked closely with him.
Not only was he an expert guiding hand to the organisation, he became a very good friend to many, a valued confidante and an inspiration. Russell was one of the really great human beings that you encounter in life, and we were fortunate to benefit from his professional expertise and friendship.
Cruelly, Russell was diagnosed with cancer during his term as Chair and at a time when he had planned to step away from his hectic professional life to engage more time with family and passion projects, of which the RLPA was one. He fought his battle with the same resilience, toughness and humility that he displayed throughout his time as Chair.
Russell leaves an important legacy and will be greatly missed.
Condolences to his family and many friends.
Rest In Peace, Russ.
