BY CURTIS WOODWARD

@woodward_curtis

St George Illawarra Dragons CEO Peter Doust has quit his post after 18 years in the top job.

The club released a statement on Thursday afternoon reporting that the longest serving boss in the NRL would finish up at the end of 2018.

“I have, and will continue, to thoroughly enjoy my time in the role,” Doust said.

“I feel very fortunate and privileged to have been afforded the opportunity to be the CEO of the Dragons and to have had a career in rugby league.

“I made the decision over the holiday break, in consultation with my family, and I wanted to give Brian appropriate notice to allow he and the Board, the opportunity to plan for the future.

“Essentially after 25 years in health care and 18 years in rugby league, I am at the stage in my life where I would like the time to pursue other interests. Rugby league by its very nature, never stops.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in the role, and am extremely passionate about the Club and remain focused on its objectives before I finish-up. However, I don’t believe that now is the time to reflect on my time at the Dragons.”

Some Dragons fans will be rejoicing after a long running social media campaign where supporters ran hashtags #OustDoust and #SaveOurSaints in objection to the way they perceived the organisation had been run under the veteran administrator.

One fan on Twitter celebrated on Thursday saying “THE GREATEST DAY OF MY LIFE #OUSTDOUST”.

The legendary Dick Caine was the pioneer of the #OustDoust movement. https://t.co/Rf7KfYefNd

— John Dean (@JohnDean_) February 1, 2018

#DoustOusted #OustDoust #RugbyLeague #NRL

— Sandy Lanceley (@sandylanceley) February 1, 2018

It’s not as fun when they oust themselves #OustDoust

— Devonmania (@Devonhead) February 1, 2018