Vale - Denis Hewett

Author: Ashley Taylor Sharks Historian
Timestamp: Mon 22 Dec 2025, 03:27 PM

The Sharks are saddened to learn of the passing of Shark No.6, dashing winger Denis Hewett, over the weekend.

Hewett passed away on Saturday aged 84.

Recruited from the Newtown Jets, Hewett arrived at the Sharks in the years prior to their promotion into the First Division, holding the distinction of being one of the longest-serving players from the Cronulla Second Division era to feature in the club's inaugural first-grade season.

Hewett brought much-needed experience to the Sharks in their maiden top-grade campaign in 1967, showing consistency and poise across all four pre-season fixtures.

He retained his spot on the wing for the club's first-ever premiership match, played on April 2 1967 against the Eastern Suburbs Roosters, cementing his place as a true pioneer of the black, white and blue.

Hewett went on to play 13 first-grade matches during that inaugural season, finishing the year as the club's equal leading try-scorer with three tries. While his time in the black, white and blue spanned just one season, his contribution was significant. Hewett remains a true club legend and the first player to wear the famous No.2 jersey.

Reflecting on his father's time at Cronulla, son Ben recalled Hewett often saying his change of pace was his "secret weapon" on the field.

"He would lull them in by slowing down," Ben said.

"He was grateful for the club getting around him. He only played the one season, but he got a lot of value from playing in that team."

Not only a talented sportsman, Denis was also a musician and an intellectual.

"He was my hero. It was Dad's kindness and humility that I admired most," Ben added.

Denis Hewett is survived by his son Ben, daughters Joanna, Nina and Ida, eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. The family will celebrate his remarkable life on December 28, with funeral details to be communicated once finalised.