The Cronulla Sharks are mourning the death of their inaugural captain Monty Porter, who passed away on Monday morning, aged 76.

The Sharks began in rugby league's top flight in 1967.

Porter was also an integral member of St George's premiership-winning packs in 1958-1960 and 1962-64, while in 1983 he was elected as one of the original nine-man New South Wales Rugby League Board of Directors.

He had battled Parkinson's Disease for many years.

"Monty's passing is a big loss for the game of rugby league and our thoughts are with his family and friends during this tough time, NRL Chief Executive," NRL CEO David Gallop said.

Originally from Tamworth in northern NSW, Porter played for Southern Division club Thirroul and Wests in 1955 before playing in six winning grand finals for St George during the mighty 11-season reign.

He also played for NSW.

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