The Rugby community has paid tribute to Robin Timmins OAM, Australian Rugby's first female referee, after she passed away during the week.
The influential figure was a staple of the Eastwood Rugby Union Club and Sydney Rugby Union throughout her 48 year career in Rugby.
"Life member NSW Rugby, keenest of Woodies supporters, trailblazing female referee, Robin has unexpectedly and suddenly left us," the club said in a post.
"There was no Eastwood supporter, more passionate, more committed, more blue and white. Legendary anywhere in rugby circles for her steely obsession with the Woodies."
Timmins led the way for female participation in refereeing and Rugby, inspiring a new generation of officials.
Amy Perrett, Australia's first female to officiate Super Rugby, typifies this.
Perrett, a fellow Eastwood product, paid tribute to Timmins and the legacy she will leave on the game.
"Robin was a pioneer for all women in rugby, not just match officials. Her almost 5 decades of service to the game has opened a number of doors for more women to be involved," Perrett said
"As the first female match officials in Australia, her legacy in the game has been enormous and without her, the opportunities for female referees wouldn't be where they are today.
"Rugby is built off people like Robin. A committed volunteer and supporter of the game at all levels. Her presence will be sorely missed, particularly around her beloved Eastwood Rugby Club."
Former Eastwood and current Men's Sevens coach John Manenti led the tributes on social media.
"This breaks my heart, such a wonderful lady," Manenti said.
"Eastwood & NSW Rugby are for every greater for Robins's dedication. Presenting the jerseys to first grade was highlight for our team, she was so honoured & proud.
"Saturdays won’t be the same."
Timmins joined the Eastwood District Rugby Referees Association in 1963 and acted as its Honorary Secretary until 1982.
From here, Timmins sat the referees exam in 1968 and became Australia's very first female referee after joining Sydney Rugby Union initially as a secretary.
Timmins held almost every position, most recently as Referees Assistant, co-ordinating the appointment of officials, before calling time in 2016.
She was awarded an OAM and an IRB Development Award for contributions to Rugby in 2013.
