Playing career
Tonkin made his first grade debut for Balmain in 1958 and played in the preliminary final defeat against St George. In 1960, Tonkin joined Western Suburbs and played in both finals games for the club which ended in losses against St George and Eastern Suburbs respectively. In 1962, Tonkin joined South Sydney and played 13 games for the club as they finished last on the table. After spending the next 4 years in reserve grade, Tonkin joined newly admitted side Penrith in 1967 and became a foundation player at the club featuring in its first ever game against Canterbury. That year, Penrith finished second last on the table avoiding the wooden spoon. Tonkin played on in 1968 and retired at the end of the season.References
Australian rugby league players Penrith Panthers players Western Suburbs Magpies players Balmain Tigers players South Sydney Rabbitohs players Rugby league locks Year of birth missing Possibly living people Place of birth missing {{Australia-rugbyleague-bio-stub