Rising Aussie footy star Henry Page tragically dies at the age of 18

A rising Aussie rugby player has been remembered as a vibrant young man who loved his job, his teammates and his club after his death left Brisbane’s rugby community in mourning.Henry Page, 18, an Easts Tigers Colts backrower and former St Laurence’s College student, died on October 18.Tributes have flowed for the apprentice electrician, with coaches remembering his enthusiasm and rival clubs offering support to his family and teammates.Easts Rugby Union announced his passing in a Facebook post headed ‘FOREVER A TIGER’.‘Our thoughts are with his family, friends, teammates and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him,’ the club wrote.‘We extend our deepest condolences and send our love and support to all those grieving during this incredibly difficult time.’ Henry Page, 18, has been remembered as a positive and enthusiastic young man following his death on October 18 The Easts Tigers Colts backrower’s death has prompted tributes across Brisbane’s rugby communityPage finished at St Laurence’s College in 2025 before joining the Colts ranks at Easts.His former school First XV coach, Welmar du Plessis, told News Corp he regularly crossed paths with the teenager at training.‘I always saw him at Easts on Friday afternoons doing extras when my little fella was training and we’d have great chats,’ he said.‘He always had a smile on his face and was always a positive kid.’Du Plessis also paid tribute beneath Easts’ Facebook announcement, writing: ‘Thoughts and prayers with all of Pagie’s family and friends! He will surely be missed!’Easts Colts 1 coach Jack Richards described a young man who embraced every part of club life.‘He was a lovely kid, an apprentice sparky who loved going to work, coming down to footy training and mucking around with his mates,’ Richards said. Former school coach Welmar du Plessis remembered Page as a young man who ‘always had a smile on his face’‘He was held in such high regard.’Injuries interrupted Page’s rugby development, including a knee injury during Year 11 and another disrupted Colts season this year.Despite those setbacks, he remained involved with his teams and was considered a contender for a Colts 1 starting position next season.Photographs shared in tribute captured happier moments from his rugby career, including celebrating Easts’ Colts 3 premiership at Ballymore.The grief has extended beyond his own club, with Brothers Rugby Club sharing a message of solidarity.‘Our thoughts are with the player’s family, friends, teammates and everyone at Easts Rugby Club during this incredibly difficult time,’ Brothers wrote on Facebook.‘As a rugby community, we’re reminded of the importance of looking out for one another, checking in on our mates and making sure no one feels they have to face things alone.’Friends and supporters also left messages beneath Easts’ announcement.‘Sending our condolences and love to all of Henrys family and friends,’ one wrote.Another offered a simple farewell: ‘Tiger for life.’Easts used its tribute to encourage members to stay connected throughout the year.‘A simple message, phone call or conversation can mean more than we realise,’ the club wrote.‘Our doors are open, and there will always be someone here to listen.’Page is survived by his parents, Odette and David, and brother Will.Family and friends will gather at St Laurence’s College’s Edmund Rice Performing Arts Centre on Saturday, followed by a reception at Easts’ home ground, Bottomley Park  For help in a crisis call 000. If you or anyone you know needs support, you can contact Lifeline 131 114, or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.