Gene began his career with South Townsville Bulls in 1980. In 1981, Gene joined the Wynnum-Manly Seagulls Gene was a member of Wynnum-Manly’s premiership-winning side in 1982. Gene was also part of Wynnum-Manly’s side that made three straight grand finals from 1984-86 (winning the Grand Final in 1984 and 1986). Gene played 121 games for Wynnum over 7 seasons (71 tries,1 goal). Gene joined the Brisbane Broncos in their inaugural season of 1988. Gene played 76 games for Brisbane over 4 seasons. (21 tries). Gene joined the Wigan Warriors in 1991. Gene was a member of Wigan’s 1991 Challenge Cup and Premiership sides. Gene played 29 games for Wigan over 1 season (8 tries).
In 1981 Gene represented Brisbane City (1 try). Gene played 23 matches for Queensland from 1981-89 (4 tries). Gene played 14 test matches for Australia from 1982-88 (8 tries). Gene played 10 games for Combine Brisbane from 1984-87 (1 try).
Gene worked for Channel 9 as part of its Rugby League coverage. Since 2017 Gene has served as the chairman of the Queensland Maroons selectors, a post he has held previously.
In 1987, Gene won the BRL Rothman’s Medal. In 2008, Gene was selected as one of Australia’s s 100 Greatest Players. In 2009, Gene was inducted into the Queensland Sports Hall of Fame. In 2018, Gene was inducted into the NRL Hall of Fame. In 2022, Gene was selected on the BRL Team of the Century bench.