 He was also selected for one game in the 1984, 1985 and 1986 Origin series.After missing the 1988 series, Johnston was recalled for Game 3 of the 1989 State of Origin series in what would be his final representative appearance.Injury caused Johnston to miss a place in St. George's 1985 Grand Final side which went down 6–7 to the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs and he was considered unlucky not to tour with the 1986 Kangaroos.