Carl Webb, former Queensland State of Origin rugby league player ...

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised that this article contains the name and images of an Indigenous person who has died.

Former Queensland and Australian rugby league forward Carl Webb has died aged 42.

Key points:Webb played for the Broncos, Cowboys and Eels in the NRLHe appeared for the Maroons in State of Origin between 2001 and 2008Webb played one Test for the Kangaroos

Webb had battled motor neurone disease for the past four years and passed away on Thursday night, sources told the ABC. 

A fan favourite in the NRL from 2000 to 2011, Webb was known for his rampaging running game at either prop or second row. 

Webb burst onto the scene with Brisbane in his rookie year and made his State of Origin debut for the Maroons the following season.

His bullocking try in a thumping 34-16 victory over New South Wales helped pave the way for a Queensland series victory. 

Webb made over 100 appearances for the Cowboys during his NRL career.(Getty Images: Ian Hitchcock)

Webb's best football came after a move to North Queensland for 2005 and he played the majority of his 12 Origin matches while with the Cowboys. 

He also notched one appearance for Australia in the famed Centenary Test in 2008 and earned two caps for the Indigenous All Stars. 

Webb finished his career with one season at Parramatta before retiring in 2011 with 187 NRL games to his credit. 

In 2020, he revealed he had been diagnosed with early onset motor neuron disease. 

Webb is survived by four children. 

North Queensland announced both its matches against Brisbane in 2024 will be played in tribute to Webb's life and career.

"Carl played a pivotal role in the transformational change at our club in the mid 2000s," Cowboys CEO Jeff Reibel said.

"He was a footballer's footballer, uncompromising and one of the toughest to wear our jersey.

Webb made his NRL debut with the Broncos.(Getty Images: Jonathan Wood)

"His unrelenting intensity in which he played the game was matched off the field by the respect and love for not just his teammates, but for everyone who came in contact with him.

"Even in recent times, when fighting this horrible disease, he found a way to put a smile on his face and those around him.

"We extend our heartfelt and deepest condolences to Carl's family and friends."

ARLC chairman Peter V'landys paid tribute to Webb in a statement on Friday afternoon. 

"Anyone who has come across Carl's battle will have been touched by his bravery," Mr V'landys said.

"He was a fearsome player and competitor and one of the toughest forwards to play in his era. He had a physical presence and aggression which was unmatched.

"He showed every bit of that toughness following his diagnosis with Motor Neurone Disease.

"Carl was a key part of some exceptional teams at Brisbane Broncos and North Queensland Cowboys and as a result was able to represent Queensland on 12 occasions, while also being selected for Australia in the Centenary Test in 2008.

"Carl also represented the Indigenous All Stars – forever being part of history by playing in the first match in 2010.

"On behalf of the Commission, I extend my condolences to Carl's family, friends, and all those who played with and knew him."