Men of League Magazine Edition 51

CARING FOR THE RUGBY LEAGUE COMMUNITY Edition 51 - May 2013

BATTLE FIELD HEROES

F E AT U R E

YOUR MEN OF LEAGUE LOCAL CONTACTS NEW SOUTH WALES CANBERRA MONARO President: Noel Bissett 0407 597 533 Secretary: Peter Elliot 0419 426 200 CENTRAL COAST President: Don Parish 0414 353 141 Secretary: Trevor Andrews 0412 694 857 CENTRAL WEST Patron: Ian Walsh President: John Lasker 02 6852 2477 FAR SOUTH COAST President: Terry Dickson 0429 449 058 Secretary: Damian Kennedy 0417 069 723 ILLAWARRA President: Peter Fitzgerald 0412 263 733 Secretary: Barry Harle 02 4229 1545 MID NORTH COAST President: Brian Atherton 0427 523 818 Secretary: Kevin Rayment 0427 533 644

GOONDIWINDI President: Trevor Brown Secretary: Col Trehearn 0427 712 679

SOUTH COAST President: Tony Hardman 0402 861 964 Secretary: Matt Adams 0421 274 155

GYMPIE President: Ross Groundwater 0408 825 466 Secretary: Fiona Calvert 0423 269 568

SOUTHERN SYDNEY President: Terry Hughes 0447 488 052 Secretary: Grahame Bowen 0400 355 500

MACKAY President: Owen Cunningham 0407 916 657

SYDNEY METRO President: Henry Morris 0418 115 706 Secretary: Seamus O’Connell 0411 126 060 TWEED DISTRICT President: John Strong 0421 971 586 Secretary: Michael Howard 0410 655 987 WESTERN REGION Secretary: Ross Tighe 02 6882 4649 Vice President: Bryson Luff 0438 058 563

QLD AND AFFLIATED STATES

MID WEST President: Paul Rossiter 0418 624 530 Secretary: Elwyn Lang 0429 721 266

BRISBANE President: Ron Atkins 07 3355 7271 Secretary: Vance Rennie 07 3350 6436

NEWCASTLE HUNTER President: Garry Leo 0400 421 767 Secretary: Ross Gigg 0409 154 233

BUNDABERG DISTRICT President: Terry Dodd 0414 526 828 Secretary: Chris Sullivan 0407 425 563

NORTH COAST President: Peter Barrett 0414 227 068 Secretary: Terry Clark

CENTRAL HIGHLANDS President: Andrew Lawrence 0448 813 666 Secretary: Mick Roach 0400 638 249

NORTH WEST President: Jim Leis 0431 097 486 Secretary: Scott Bone 0412 792 307

FAR NORTH QUEENSLAND President: Paul Fowler Secretary: John McAllister 0411 752 391

NORTHERN SYDNEY President: Neil Whittaker 0412 488 037 Secretary: Denis Bendall 0435 057 477

FRASER COAST President: Peter Stephensen Secretary: Bob Wicks

NORTHERN RIVERS Patron: Bob Abbott AM Secretary: Tony Cicchinelli 02 6621 3096

GLADSTONE President: Mark Graham Secretary: Chris Anderson

NSW POLICE Patron: Andrew Scipione President: Dennis Clifford

GOLD COAST President: Ian Amos 0417 005 180 Secretary: Mick Toomey 0422 870 025

NATIONAL BOARD Patron: The Hon John Fahey AC President: Ron Coote AM Vice President: Jim Hall Secretary: Neil Musgrave Treasurer: Geoff Thoroughgood Committee: Royce Ayliffe, Steve Calder, Martin Cook, Ben Ikin Brian James, Noel Kelly, Peter Simons, Darryl Van de Velde

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RIVERINA President: Dave Mulrooney 0438 017 428 Secretary: Ian Lloyd 0457 850 384

May 2013

EXECUTIVE Executive Officer: Chris Bannerman Welfare & Benevolence Officer: Velu Nuumaalii Operations & Membership Manager: Jason Turik Qld Operations & Events: Tegan Jennings NSW Admin & Membership Officer: Claire White Administration Officer: Sarah Bolton Accounts: Georgie Dawson & Marg Dawson Honorary Welfare Officers: Ron Pearce & John Peard Honorary Scholarship Officer: Ray Beattie OAM Local Committee Manager NSW: Jim Hall Local Committee Manager QLD: Steve Calder

chris@menofleague.com velu@menofleague.com jason@menofleague.com tegan@menofleague.com claire@menofleague.com sarah@menofleague.com accounts@menofleague.com welfare@menofleague.com nsw@menofleague.com qld@menofleague.com

ROCKHAMPTON President: Kev Yewdale 0439 546 557 Secretary: Karen Chapman 0439 546 557 ROMA President: Owen Lingard 0400 496 507 Secretary: Julie Walton 0437 721 527 SOUTHERN DIVISION President: Andrew O’Brien 0417 748 489 Secretary: John Dent 0400 046 214 SUNSHINE COAST President: Bob Hagan 0419 252 092 Secretary: Ross Meldrum 0418 500 928 TOWNSVILLE President: Tim Nugent 0419 730 700 Secretary: Terry Feeney MELBOURNE President: Peter Foreman 0428 183 353 Secretary: Greg Brentnall 03 8412 4905 NORTHERN TERRITORY President: Dave Cannon 0428 895 211 Secretary: John Barry 0417 732 660 WESTERN AUSTRALIA President: James Sullivan 0414 733 083 Secretary: Justin Reid 0488 906 665 QLD STATE COMMITTEE CEO: Steve Calder President: Darryl Van de Velde Committee: Ken Brown, Ben Ikin, Anthony Joseph, Mark Mackay, Mark Murray, Peter Psaltis, Justin Ribot, Wayne Roberts, Greg Veivers, Angelo Venardos, Tony Woodgate

NSW & NATIONAL OFFICE Level 3, Eastern Grandstand, ANZ Stadium, SYDNEY OLYMPIC PARK NSW 2127 PO Box 7049, SILVERWATER NSW 2128 Phone: 02 8765 2232 Fax: 02 8765 2808 QLD OFFICE QRL Office, Suncorp Stadium, Castlemaine Street, MILTON QLD 4064 PO Box 1217, MILTON QLD 4064 Phone: 07 4528 2925 Fax: 07 3367 3464

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE R

ound 6 of the Premiership marked the Men of League Heritage Round and last year’s winners Melbourne Storm have hit the lead after a fantastic match against the Rabbitohs.

The Storm got home on the bounce of the ball from their great kicking game. You have got to admire the great athleticism of the current players, especially the outside backs. To see these guys working their magic to score tries is a great part of our game, bringing the crowd to its feet and back to the game the next week.

The Men of League Heritage Round always resonates with me, as it provides an opportunity to celebrate our game’s rich history and raises awareness and much needed funds for the Men of League Foundation. This year, the Men of League Heritage Round was centred around the iconic Provan and Summons image ‘The Gladiators’, which to this day represents the respect and camaraderie shared between players of the game.

Helping out your mates and indeed your rivals, has been part of Rugby League since its inception and Men of League was founded upon this principle. As always, the Men of League Heritage Round offered a chance to reflect on the spirit of our game and spread the word about our Foundation.

I would like to welcome Ben Ikin on to the National Men of League Board. Ben has replaced long serving Board member Bob Hagen. Bob was a foundation member of the Men of League, who gave great service to the Board. He will remain on the committee of our Sunshine Coast Local Committee and we look forward to his continued service and commitment to the Foundation.

Ben comes onto our Board with a great deal of logic, experience and a young guy’s perspective. These are all valuable attributes as we are always looking to encourage younger people to join the Men of League. I am sure Ben will be a great asset to our Board and we are all looking forward to working with him.

As we quickly approach the middle of the year, I encourage you all to mark Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 July in your calendars. This weekend is the Men of League Weekend, where all clubs and teams from any level of the game can show their support for the Foundation by wearing our famous Men of League socks.

This year, all funds raised from the purchase of socks will go towards supporting members of the rugby league community who suffer spinal cord injuries. You can purchase your socks online at menofleague.com. With the support of our members, I am confident that we can make this year’s Men of League Weekend a great success.

With this edition of Men of League you should have received a letter explaining that in order to continue to receive a printed copy of the magazine, we are asking you to contribute a fee of $10. This annual fee will cover the cost of our magazine’s production, printing and postage, and ensure that we can continue to deliver high quality news and information to our members.

I trust as loyal members, you will appreciate why this new fee has been introduced. Now more than ever before, the Rugby League community is looking to the Foundation for support and assistance and with your contribution we can continue to meet this demand.

Ron Coote, AM

May 2013

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contents

FEATURES

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CARING FOR THE RUGBY LEAGUE COMMUNITY Edition 51 - May 2013

5 Battle Field Heroes 6 Ferris Ashton Tribute

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Editor & Publisher Garry Farrar Designer Caitlin Burden Contributors Barry Ross David Middleton Steve Ricketts Geoff Prenter Ian Heads Terry Fearnley Advertising Men of League

8 Bob Hagan 20 Easts to Win 26 Peter Sterling 28 Ian Walsh Tribute 36 Tom Ryan 42 Diane Langmark

REGULARS

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11 Lending a Helping Hand 18

Ray’s Wrap

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NRL Masters

46 NRL Welfare 4

Cover: Battle Field Heroes.

31 Police Commissioner

Printing Spotpress FINAL NOTE FROM THE EDITOR This is my last edition as Editor & Publisher.

I would like to take this time to thank all those that have contributed to the magazine and for their support during my time.

I would especially like to thank Mr. Barry Ross who continually supported me and was there no matter what the day or time to contributed very entertaining content.

He is a great supporter of Men of League.

Battle Field Heroes

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F E AT U R E

BATTLE FIELD HEROES

BY DAVID MIDDLETON

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he decision of the NSWRL to continue operating a club competition through both World Wars drew heavy criticism from those who believed that every ounce of energy from every able person should be devoted to the war effort. The criticism was loudest at the outbreak of World War I but in time there was acceptance that entertainment on the home front was valuable and necessary for morale. What could never be questioned was the commitment of those Rugby League players who did decide to fight for king and country in the two major conflicts of the 20th century.

Hundreds of top-level players from New South Wales and Queensland joined the forces and many covered themselves in glory. One of the most decorated was Corporal Stan Carpenter, a stretcher-bearer at Gallipoli who was twice recommended for a Victoria Cross. In Turkey in 1915, Carpenter swam out to a boat of wounded soldiers that had been sunken by a shell and saved several men. Twelve months later at Pozieres, France, Carpenter ignored shelling described as “almost unprecedented” to collect and tend wounded soldiers. Sergeant Joseph Murray, a Newtown forward and Kangaroo tourist in 1911-12, was awarded the Distinguished Conduct Medal in France in 1917 after he “assisted an officer to mark out and excavate a support trench under intense shell

fire”. Bert Gray, who played with Glebe and toured with the 1921-22 Kangaroos received a Meritorious Service Medal in 1918 in recognition of “valuable services rendered with the Forces in France”. Second Lieutenant Charles Douglas Scott, who played for Queensland against New South Wales in 1913 was awarded the Military Cross for “his daring reconnaissances in No Man’s Land in daylight and dark during operations at Guedecourt in 1917. A few months later he was killed in action. Sergeant Patrick Moran played six matches for Queensland (191921) after being awarded the Military Medal for “conspicuous gallantry and devotion to duty” at Dernancourt in 1918. Moran was wounded in the thigh early in the day but remained at his gun, “carrying out his duties and encouraging his men”. He continued to man his gun despite being wounded for a second and third time.

These are a mere handful of instances of toplevel Rugby League players who exhibited extraordinary courage on the battlefield.

Numerous others displayed courage as prisoners of war in Germany, Burma and Thailand and countless more died as heroes, giving their lives on foreign fields, all in the name of freedom.

Close to 50 players who appeared at first grade level or higher are known to have died in the World Wars and it is they who deserve a special place in the thought of every Rugby League supporter each Anzac Day. May 2013

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F E AT U R E

Ferris in action.

BY DAVID MIDDLETON

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he annual Anzac Day clash between the Sydney Roosters and St George Illawarra at Allianz Stadium is a truly special event on the Rugby League calendar. But this year it won’t be quite the same. Ferris Ashton won’t be there.

Aged 86, Ashton died of heart failure at Port Macquarie Base Hospital on January 29.

A favourite with the crowds, a World War II serviceman and a Kangaroo representative, Ashton, for years, was an honoured guest at the pre-game ceremony where he carried himself with dignity and pride.

Ashton was Eastern Suburbs through and through. He was born at Darlinghurst on August 21, 1926 and grew up at Bondi. In his later years he might have moved north of the harbour and

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then up the NSW North Coast to Kundabung but his love of the Roosters was unwavering.

Ferris grew up in a musical household but at school he excelled at sport, starring in cricket and Rugby League and he also displayed rare talent as a boxer.

At 13 he was selected in a New South Wales schoolboys Rugby League team that toured Queensland and it was while he and his teammates were attending a movie in Toowoomba, that they learned of the outbreak of World War II. “Dad told us that the movie stopped playing and an announcement was made that Australia was now at war with Germany,” son Greg recalled. “Dad said that he and the other boys came out of the movie theatre, looking around for bombers.”

When he was old enough, Ferris joined the Navy, serving as an able seaman on the HMAS Quickmatch. It was the practice at the time for the British Navy to send destroyers such as the Quickmatch ahead of the British Fleet in case there was heavy enemy activity. “Dad always said that the English would fight to the last drop of colonial blood,” recalled Greg.

“In those days many of the young servicemen treated the war like an adventure but the next thing a kamikaze went down the funnel of an American ship and 69 died,” he said. Reality soon hit.

Ashton was in Tokyo Harbour when the Japanese surrendered on September 2, 1945.

He returned to Sydney soon after and was due to serve with the occupation forces in Japan when fate took a hand.

He struck an instant friendship with Miss Bondi (Patricia Brennan) at Circular Quay while on shore leave but with orders to sail to Japan within days the new friendship might not have amounted to anything. That changed when Ferris

F E AT U R E dislocated his kneecap in a fall down a flight of stairs and he spent the next three months convalescing in a naval hospital at Balmoral, overlooking Sydney’s Middle Harbour.

Romance and marriage followed and Ferris and Pattie were together for 66 years.

Ferris’ league career and later business pursuits meant he spent plenty of time away from home, especially in 1952-53 when he toured with Great Britain and France with the Kangaroos. Ashton was a second-rower in the team skippered by Clive Churchill and he played in five of the six Tests on tour, along with another 17 minor matches. Ashton packed down in the second row in the third Test at Bradford, described by veteran journalists as one of the most brutal Test matches ever played in England.

There is no question that Ashton would have been intimidated in such circumstances. He won 19 amateur bouts in the navy, including one against an American Golden Gloves champion.

In later years, son Greg loved to read of his father’s exploits in the scrapbooks his mother lovingly kept while Ferris was on tour.

“It was six weeks by boat and they reckon Roy Bull was 14st 2 when he left Australia,” Greg recalled. “By the time he got to England he was over 16st, he was good on the tooth, Roy. They stayed at a hotel at Ilkley Moor and in their first week they were sitting around one night when Roy decided to go on a food hunt. The manager of the hotel had planned a luncheon for the local hotel owners the next day and had

Ferris Ashton and (inset) in his playing days for the Roosters.

left a crate of cooked chickens in the fridge area.

Roy and Ferris and a couple of others ripped off all the legs and had a good feed. Later they crept into Keith Holman’s room and put all the bones in his bin. The next morning, team manager Latchem Robinson calls a meeting and says he is very angry about what happened but he is most angry with Yappy (Holman).

“They reckon the boys couldn’t contain their laughter when Yappy began protesting in his high-pitched whine.”

Ferris didn’t get the chance to play in a premiership-winning team for Easts, but it didn’t prevent him reaching legendary status for the club in 86 first grade games from 1950-56. After retiring he embarked on a highly successful business career and rose to the position of claims director for Australia and New Zealand for giant American insurance company AIG. He had no legal training whatsoever but had the ability to negotiate outcomes and was highly valued.

He also won admiration for his on-screen performances on Channel Seven’s Sports Action.

He was a panel member on Rex Mossop’s Controversy Corner in the 1970s and gave as good as he got in the Sunday morning verbal jousting stakes. He spruiked the qualities of Viking Saunas and was part of the chaos when the pass-the-ball segment appeared.

Scores of Ferris’ old friends and family members swapped stories and laughs at a memorial service at the Sydney Cricket Ground on February 5.

Formidable Ferris.

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F E AT U R E

BOB HAGAN

Bob Hagan in action on the field.

BY STEVE RICKETTS

B

OB Hagan thought nothing of it when he donned the New South Wales jumper for the first time in 1967, despite wearing the Maroon for Queensland in his previous 12 interstate appearances. That’s just the way things were back then, with state sides chosen on a residential basis. In the 1950s the likes of Don Furner and Ken McCaffery played for QLD after moving to Toowoomba from New South Wales.

“It felt a little strange wearing the sky blue, but really it wasn’t an issue back then in terms of public reaction,’’ Hagan recalls. “In saying that, the Queensland players certainly let me know about it out on the field.’’

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In his one and only match for NSW, Hagan started a memorable move which led to a try to winger, Ken Irvine in the Blues 14-8 win in wet and murky conditions at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Hagan, whose skill set had been enhanced by three seasons in England with Huddersfield, switched the point of attack and the ball swept through eight sets of hands before Irvine crossed. A late replacement for the injured Reg Gasnier, Canterbury-Bankstown star Hagan didn’t have a chance to train with the Blues, and did remarkably well in the circumstances.

Born at Warwick in 1940, Hagan attended 13 different schools around Queensland as his

F E AT U R E father was transferred from town to town as a railway station master. World wise at a young age, Hagan was always destined to be a leader, on and off the field, and he captained Easts in the Brisbane competition in the early 1960s and when his playing career was over, coached Canterbury in 1970-71.

He was Canterbury Chief Executive Officer from 1996 to 2002 and in more recent times has been a committee member for the National Board of the Men of League. He has stepped down from that role, but will continue as President of the Sunshine Coast Committee, the first to be established in Queensland outside Brisbane.

“I’ve had a few health issues, but I’m on top of things now,’’ Hagan said. “I enjoy doing the Men of League work and one of the most satisfying things has been the establishment of new Committees, to the extent we are now represented from Victoria to North Queensland and the Northern Territory and over to Western Australia.

“I remember the great Jack Gibson coming back from one of his trips to the United States and telling us about an organisation that looked after old footballers. “I was at Canterbury at the time and we followed that initiative by setting up what we called the Ambassador Club.’’

Hagan is one of Rugby League’s great ambassadors and now that inter-state football is played on an Origin basis he is revelling in Queensland’s domination.

“We were always the underdogs when I played, and the Blues had such amazing outside backs, just like Queensland now,’’ he said.

“They had the likes of Reg Gasnier, Ken Irvine, Harry Wells and Peter Dimond, all legends of the game.’’

Hagan, who made his QLD debut from the Centrals club in Townsville in 1961, more than held his own, and played Tests for Australia against the 1962 Great Britain side and the ‘63 Kiwi tourists. Nevertheless, some sections of the Sydney press were suspicious of any players chosen from Queensland.

“One scribe had nicknames for us. There was gormless (Peter) Gallagher; unmentionable (Barry) Muir; doubtful (Ken) Day and I was hopeless Hagan,’’ Bob recalls.

“It wasn’t very flattering. Jack Reardon was the League writer for ‘The Courier-Mail’ in

Bob Hagan.

Queensland and he was tough, but fair. If you had a bad game, he let you know it.’’

Hagan seemingly gave up rep footy when he signed for Huddersfield in 1964, but the following year had the honour of playing for a Commonwealth XIII against the touring Kiwis in London.

“I was recruited by Eric Sellars, a multimillionaire who had a carpet manufacturing business in England and was a stalwart of the Huddersfield club,’’ Hagan said. “I enjoyed my three years there, despite having to play in winter in those days.’’

Fellow Queenslanders, Greg Veivers and Wayne Bennett had stints at Huddersfield in the years following Hagan’s return to Australia to play with Canterbury.

Hagan played in the 1967 Grand Final against South Sydney, a match best remembered for Rabbitohs forward, Bob McCarthy’s 90 metre intercept try from a Col Brown pass.

“There was a lot made of the fact none of us gained on Macca,’’ Hagan said “But it looked worse for us than it actually was because Bob really took the ball on the gallop and had about 30 yards start.’’

Bob Hagan has slowed a little since those glory days, but is quick to lend a hand for any cause associated with the Men of League.

Photographs supplied by Bulldogs Football Club

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SPECIAL

New Horizons T

he Men of League Foundation heads on this year into our second decade of existence with plans afoot to upgrade, streamline and further improve operations. The 10 years since our formation day, back in July 2002, have represented a great learning experience and also been a time of significant achievement in which there can be genuine collective pride - all of it within the framework of an original charter which so clearly defined the Men of League goals: To assist Rugby League players, coaches, referees, officials and administrators, from ALL levels of the Game, and members of their families who have fallen on difficult times.

Now, in 2013, comes the Second Effort.

The challenge confronted grows year by year: to handle an ever-increasing demand from within the league community. With Men of League membership continuing to swell and local committees being progressively established in areas wherever the game is played, the certainty is that this demand will continue.

As one step towards sustaining and further improving the services we offer, the Men of League Board at its last meeting voted to introduce a $10 annual fee, to be implemented as of 1 July, 2013. By contributing this fee, members will continue to receive future printed editions of the Men of League magazine and will assist in covering the magazine’s increasing production, print and postage costs (which is currently one of the Foundation’s largest expenditures). Should members not pay this annual fee they will still be entitled to receive the magazine in an electronic format after providing their email details. The fee is modest, but in

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its collective effect considering the size of the current (and ever-growing) membership list, will provide an invaluable boost in the help and support the Men of League can provide as past generations of players age, and needs grow.

We respectfully ask for members’ support in the decision taken which came only after considerable discussion and consideration – and was one entirely in line with a determination that the Men of League would continue to grow as a `team’ in the ongoing duty of care that was its charter.

Long-time league journalist Ian Heads has called the formation of the Men of League “one of the two great initiatives of modern Rugby League” (the other being the introduction of the State of Origin phenomenon.) This reflection of a sense of appreciation for the work done so far indeed seems to spread widely through Rugby League’s domain. Our pledge now, for the second decade, can be nothing less than a united determination to work even smarter and better in support of the game and its people

Steve Edge, Men of League member & supporter with George Jardine at the ICAP “Back to the Game” at Kogarah Oval.

One of the many Men of League charitable endeavours.

LENDING A HELPING HAND

LENDING A HELPING HAND Helping your mates has been part of Rugby League since its inception. On and off the field, we pride ourselves in ensuring those involved in the game are looked after. Since 2002, Men of League has assisted Rugby League players, coaches, referees, officials and administrators from all levels of the game, and members of their families who have fallen on hard times. Here’s just a sample of the valued assistance that the Foundation continues to extend to those in need.

ANNE BRIGGS Recently Men of League visited breast cancer patient Anne Briggs at her home in Pittsworth. Bulldogs legend and Anne’s favourite player Steve Price made a surprise visit along with legend John Peard.

BILL JOHNSON

By Velu Nuumaalii

Men of League Northern Sydney Welfare Officer and Former Manly Sea Eagles Player, Norm Pounder alongside former Manly Sea Eagles and North Sydney Bears front rower Bill “Herman” Hamilton visited Dubbo local, Bill Johnson, who is suffering from leukaemia.

Bill and his wife Faye

have been travelling from Dubbo to Sydney to receive chemotherapy at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, since being diagnosed late last year.

Bill and Faye are members of the Dubbo Macquarie Club.

They both volunteered for the club’s cafe van at their home ground matches in the past. Bill was also as a former manager and strapper for the Dubbo CYMS Club.

A mad Manly Sea Eagles fan, Bill was overwhelmed by the visit of the two former Manly players as they shared a lot of Rugby League yarns during the visit.

Men of League were able to help the Johnson family through the Sporting Chance Fund with a $1000 petrol/food Essential Card to help Bill and Faye with their travelling expenses.

BRENTON BOWEN

By Jason Fiddes

The Melbourne Committee was recently made aware of the challenges that Brenton Bowen and his family were enduring as Brenton fights hard to overcome a major health issue. Brenton, his wife Stevi and their two young children, were on holidays in Nelson Bay when they were advised that he was required to see the specialist on 16 January.

Brenton received advice that an opportunity to use a radiation machine in Melbourne had become available but they needed to be in Melbourne ready to commence treatment on 23 February. He initially tried to have the procedure pushed back to try to be better prepared, however the medical

Bill Hamilton, Bill Johnson, Norm Pounder and Faye Johnson.

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LENDING A HELPING HAND

Clarke O’Brien John “Bomber” Peard and Ron Pearce.

Brenton Bowan and family with Greg Brentnall.

advice was that he should take the opportunity to use the radiation machine now.

Being in another state for several weeks, away from home in rented accommodation and not earning an income (on top of a challenging medical condition) is an event that you just can’t plan for. Whilst the situation is not something we wish on any Rugby League person, the Men of League Melbourne Committee were there to support Brenton and his family during his treatment in Melbourne.

On his way back to home base, Brenton stopped in at AAMI Park, the home of The Melbourne Storm, where Greg Brentnall gave a personal tour of the facility. Thanks to Greg for arranging this for Brenton at short notice.

The Melbourne Committee wish Brenton and his family all the best.

He refereed in the local juniors in the Cronulla area and was a De La Salle Caringbah junior club man.

Clarke was awarded last year with a De La Salle memorabilia jumper for his 40 year services to the Caringbah Club as a former coach and committeeman. He mentioned during the visit that he coached great players with the likes of Paul Walker, Craig Wilson, Alan Wilson, and Cronulla Sharks legend Andrew Ettingshausen.

Since living in the shire for 56 years, Clarke is a proud Cronulla Sharks fan and cannot wait for their upcoming home game this year as the Sharks have kindly organised a disabled seat just for him to

cheer on his beloved sharks.

In the most recent years, Clarke has been doing it tough with his mobility. He has been suffering from hip problems and had also found cancer in his left leg which he has had chemotherapy to prevent further spreading and is fighting strong. The visit from John and Ron was much appreciated by Clarke as they all shared yarns about Rugby League.

EDINGLASSIE LODGE

By Velu Nuumaalii

Through the “ICAP Back to the Game,” Men of League organised a group of nursing care residents from the Penrith area to watch their favourite teams play, as the Panthers hosted the Rabbits on a hot Sunday evening in the West.

During the game the residents were divided with

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CLARKE O’BRIEN

By Velu Nuumaalii

Men of League Welfare Officers John “Bomber” Peard and Ron Pearce caught up with former referee, Clarke O’Brien.

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Carers and nursing care residents from Edinglassie Lodge.

LENDING A HELPING HAND their teams. On one side the Rabbitohs supporters from Edinglassie Lodge, where resident Bill Campbell, who hasn’t been to a NRL game since 2001 and was given the opportunity to support his team. Bill proudly wore his Rabbitohs shirt on the day alongside his carer Dana Ayre.

On the Panthers supporting side were Tony Parton, Mavis Stevenson and Betty Gordon and Activities Officer Michele Andrews, who are true Penrith locals who love supporting their team.

Unfortunately for the local supporters the final result was in the favour of the Rabbits 44 – 32, with the scorching Sunday heat having no impact on the player’s abilities to score tries.

It is now the third year in a row that the Edinglassie Lodge have taken part in the ICAP Back to the Game program for nursing care residents and people with a disability.

Each year the residents have thoroughly enjoyed the social outing experience.

This program would have not been possible without the support of the Penrith Panthers Club and especially Diane Langmack OAM at the foot of the mountains.

ERIC BENNETT

By Dennis Tomsett

he played Rugby League in the minor grades for the Canterbury Bulldogs.

Despite his illness, Eric was pleased to see Les and appreciated him giving his time to visit. He is a very true Bulldog fan, displaying much memorabilia of the Bulldogs at his home.

We wish Eric and his wife all the best for their future.

played 60 first-grade games and nine tries during his five seasons.

Jardine also represented City Seconds as they defeated their Country counterparts 19-3 in 1948.

He was amongst the tryscorers on that day and shared the celebrations with former long term NSWRL secretary, Ken Stephen.

GEORGE JARDINE

GREG HAWICK

By Ian Lloyed

Courtesy of the St George Dragons

Dragons Great George Jardine was in attendance to watch the 19-16 victory over the Newcastle Knights at WIN Jubilee Oval, Kogarah.

The lock-forward was involved in the Club’s secondever Premiership victory when they defeated the South Sydney Rabbitohs 19-12 in the Grand Final at the Sydney Cricket Ground, Moore Park in 1949.

Jardine played most of that encounter with a broken wrist.

He began his association with the Dragons in 1947, and

Greg Hawick, former Kangaroo and South Sydney Legend has been honoured by his former club Wagga Kangaroos and the Wagga City Council by being inducted into the Wagga Sporting Hall of Fame. Greg has been a great mentor to both young and old players even after he retired from playing.

HARRY MAXWELL CARROLL Thank You Letter By Jill Carroll-Taylor

Dear Men of League. My uncle, Peter Carroll, (ex St George First Grade Player) JOHN MURRAY Ron Atkins and Vance Rennie from the Brisbane Committee paid John Murray a visit.

Central Coast Men of League Welfare Officer, Les Pearce recently visited Eric Bennett at his home in Woy Woy. Unfortunately, Eric is suffering from dementia, however, he is in the care of his loving wife.

During his playing days

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LENDING A HELPING HAND recently contacted you asking for your assistance in placing my Father Harry Maxwell Carroll, (a founding Member of Western Suburbs (NCLE) Leagues Club and Life Member of Western Suburbs Rugby League Football Club), in Harbourside Haven Aged Care Facility at Shoal Bay. Due to your very prompt involvement and association with Harbourside Haven, Dad was placed immediately in their care on 4 March. Sadly Dad passed away in Harbourside on 14 March. Dad spent his whole life either playing, coaching, selecting and in later years supporting Rugby League, it was his passion. His Western Suburbs (NCLE) Leagues Club Membership No. is 18!

I would like to thank Men of League for their support to

Jason Whessel.

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May 2013

Larry Gaffney, John Chisholm and John Peard.

our family and to let you know that Dad was treated with the utmost respect and care by all the staff at Harbourside.

JASON WHESSEL

By Velu Nuumaalii

Jason began playing Rugby League in 2001 with Macarthur Saints JRL Club in the U6’s and has played in all age groups.

His position for the past 11yrs has been winger with the occasional play of five-eight and centre. He has made the Finals five times however has sadly fallen short of the winning their competition each time. His brother Ryan has told Jason he will be playing extra hard for him this year as he won’t be able to, Ryan is in the U13’s 2nd Rower this year.

Jason had pool accident on Australia Day, where he suffered a neck injury diving into the pool, which he dislocated his C5/C6 vertebrae and severed his spinal cord.

He is currently rehabilitating at Prince of Wales Hospital.

Men of League Welfare Officer Velu Nuumaalii caught

up with Jason on the 5 February 2013 and shared his experience of his neck injury recovery and astounded Jason with his determination and recovery. Jason has only been in the spinal ward for a few weeks, yet the signs are looking positive with most of his mobility function already improving slowly and the physiotherapist already predicting that he would be discharged in April. Men of League supported Jason and the Macarthur Saints JRL with their fundraiser jam which was held on 3 March 2013.

JOHN CHISHOLM

By Velu Nuumaalii

Men of League member and former Bondi United player John Chisholm has been in St Vincent Hospital for the last month due to his ongoing hip problems. John has previously had two hip operations and hopefully the third time will do the trick. On the 26 March John “Bomber” Peard and Larry Gaffney visited their good friend who is in good spirits.

LENDING A HELPING HAND

L-R: Doey Cooper, Trevor Ingram, Tony Battle, Kevin Hanley.

John appreciated the visit

by Men of League and was presented a cap and polo on the day.

KEVIN HANLEY Courtesy of Manila Express

A Local Committee of the statewide organisation Men of League Foundation visited a former player on Friday.

Local man Kevin Hanley was surprised when he was visited

by Manilla Men of League representatives Steven (Doey) Cooper, Trevor Ingram, Bob Gardner, Tony Battle, John Martin and Trevor Hatch. They presented Kevin with a cap and badge featuring the Men of League logo.

Kevin now a resident of Manellae Lodge played for the Manilla Tigers in the late 1950’s and 60’s and was a true gentleman of the game and was greatly respected by the opposition. The Manilla Local Committee of the Men of League was formed around four weeks ago and is under the leadership of Trevor Hatch as President, Vice President is

Trevor Ingram, and Secretary/ Treasurer is Craig Butler.

Locally there are around 30 members, but there is room for many more.

MAL CHENEY

By Pat Bannon

All Men of League roads led to Batemans Bay Soldiers Club on Friday 15 February 2013 for the Mal Cheney Benefit Night.

Mal was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2008 and after an operation he was given only a few days to live. He has battled on and only recently moved to a Nursing Home in Batemans Bay. Mal’s Rugby League career began with Tarcutta in 1966 and he coached Batemans Bay to Grand Final victories in 1979 and 1986 after involvement with eight other Country Rugby League clubs. Two years with Parramatta saw him play in Parra’s Reserve Grade win over Cronulla in 1975 under Terry Fearnley. Spanning over a forty year period Mal continued his Rugby League career when he finished coaching with local

media outlets Radio 2EC and Bay Post/Moruya Examiner as a reporter and broadcaster.

In all 247 people attended and supported the function as well as many distinguished guests.

The night was well MC’d by Radio 2ST’s Adam Straney who immediately got everyone into the spirit of Men of League and what we were there for.

He then introduced Men of League President Ron Coote who gave a short talk on the Men of League ideals and objectives.

Of course there was the monster raffle to be run and won and the memorabilia auction to be had but before these was a great meal and a forum with Rugby League greats: Ron Coote, George Piggins, Wally FullertonSmith, Jim Hall and Derek Fox all questioned by MC Adam Straney for the crowds entertainment.

Before the auction Johnny “Bomber” Peard took to the stage and had the room in fits of laughter for the next 30 or 40 minutes. The crowd showed its appreciation with a standing ovation. Well done Bomber!

In excess of $20,000 was raised on the night and thanks must go to all those who attended, Batemans Bay Soldiers Club, raffle and memorabilia donors, donations from those unable to attend, Men of League guests, local media, Men of League Head Office and in particular David Hayward from Batemans Bay who was the local organising May 2013

15

LENDING A HELPING HAND for the support of the Men of League and thanked Les and Denis for visiting him during his recovery process.

We wish Peter all the best with his recovery.

PETER DIVERSI

By Dennis Tomsett

L-R: Pat Kirk, Graham Howard, Peter Haley, Trevor Howard, Max Freguson, Noel Morris, Bruce Pearce, Eric Rowland, Jock Morris, Mal Cheney and Barry Sohier.

and driving force behind the night. Thank you David!

PAUL DEZOLT

By Barry Buchanan

Men of League Townsville recently provided assistance to Paul Dezolt to help in his battle with Pulmonary Hypertension, a heart/lung condition. Paul, who played his junior Rugby League in Ingham, progressed through the North Queensland Cowboys

Program and onto the first grade squad 2002 to 2004.

His active sporting and working life has been cut short and instead he is full-time managing his health while providing for his wife and two young children.

Men of League, in conjunction with the Cowboys Old Boys, will continue to monitor Paul’s progress and assist wherever we can.

Anyone else who would like to help can phone me on 07 4773 7122.

PETER ATKINSON

By Dennis Tomsett

President Tim Nugent lending a helping hand to Paul Dezolt.

16

May 2013

Central Coast Men of League Welfare Officers’ Les Pearce and Denis Culpan recently visited Peter at his home in Umina. Peter has undergone surgery on his legs.

During his playing days Peter played Rugby League with Wests and Balmain.

Peter was presented with a Men of League shirt and cap.

He expressed his appreciation

Central Coast Men of League Welfare Officers’ Les Pearce and Denis Culpan recently visited Peter at his home in Umina. Unfortunately, Peter is suffering from problems with his heart.

He is a legend of the game, playing Rugby League for Manly, North Sydney and representing Australia.

Despite his illness, Peter was very pleased to see Les and Denis and appreciated their visit.

We wish Peter all the best for a return to good health.

PHIL JACKSON

By Ian Lloyed

Former great English centre, coach of Country Firsts and Clubs in Goulburn and Wagga, Phil Jackson recently had a hip replacement following a bad fall. Members of the Men of League have been visiting Phil, giving him a helping hand and he is now well on the way to recovery.

RON CROWE

By Ian Lloyed

Recently a large group of members travelled from throughout the Riverina to visit League legend Ron Crowe, former South Sydney and Australian player, at the newly equipped and refurbished oval named after

LENDING A HELPING HAND him in West Wyalong.

Ron is suffering from health issues but along with his family he enjoyed the morning and the renewal of old acquaintances. The roll up included a who’s who of past Rugby League greats including Arthur Summons, Kev Goldspink, Chris Mortimer, Joe Walsh, John Kelly, Col Goldspink, Matt Goodwin, Fred Strutt, Ron Pilon, Gary Burns, Harry Sanson, Dave Mulrooney and other Riverina players.

WILLIAM LEWIS

By Dennis Tomsett

Central Coast Men of League Welfare Officers’ Nev Charlton and Les Pearce recently visited William at his home in Buff Point. Unfortunately, William is suffering from dementia. He is in the care of his loving wife.

William is 76 years of age, and during his playing days he played Rugby League in the minor grades for South Sydney.

Despite his illness, William was pleased to see Nev and Les and appreciated their visit.

He was presented with a Men of League polo and cap.

We wish William and his wife all the best for their future.

Ron Sao Leonard is presented with a Men of League polo.

RON “SAO” LEONARD

By Kevin Robinson Ron was a former official for the Baradine Rugby League Football Club and Bendemeer Mountain Men Rugby League Football Club in the Group 4 competition as a treasurer for many years.

Ron is well known in the Tamworth Rugby League community as “Sao” due to his long services as a former truck driver for the Arnott’s company delivering Sao biscuits.

Ron has been recently diagnosed with prostate cancer. Men of League North West committee arranged a welfare visit to Ron at his home and presented him with a Men of League polo.

Many old League greats plus family and friends attended a get together for League legend Ron Crowe at West Wyalong recently.

May 2013

17

RAY’S WRAP

Copper Cronk will help lead Storm to the Grand Final.

O

ur new season is well developed by now, and the Thursday night experiment in its four week length seemed long enough. I’m Joe Average and enduring Thursday through to Monday is enough for me in small doses.

Already it seems Melbourne is going to take some stopping, someone down there is a marvel. Obviously his name is Craig Bellamy, however, there must be others identifying these new players coming off the footy production line The new names that have become famous and the ones who seemingly have been resurrected from the scrap heap are incredible.

I have to sing the praises of those who have made Melbourne what they are in a market that is less than Rugby League friendly. Please don’t take this the wrong way, there is no more avid fan than a Storm fan, but really the exposure our game receives in this market verses our Northern States is slightly out of balance.

The new Governor of the Rules and Regulations

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May 2013

is a mate of mine and I think Daniel Anderson will do a fine job. Unfortunately he tried too hard to get the obstruction rule right. The season started with total confusion given the interpretation he wanted to place on it. I understand his reasoning, he wanted everyone on the same page and that meant keeping it simple. Where he got it wrong was to take away some of the simpler things that people understand.

Firstly a player in a different postcode to where the action is has no right of appeal for a try being disallowed. Secondly the rules of horse racing are relevant here. If you are the jockey on the second horse and you protest against the winner and you have been beaten by a length, then your job is to convince stewards you were inconvenienced by more than a length by the horse who interfered with you, in this case the winner. It might be drawing a long bow but believe me it works. How can someone taken out by a decoy, that is miles from the ball, cause the try to be disallowed? He can’t, unless the play comes back to the hole created by the player being impeded.

Hopefully by the time this goes to print we will be seeing the prudence in the new way of analyzing the obstruction.

My version of obstruction dates back to the original rules A. player not in possession cannot be impeded if he can take an active part in preventing a try being scored. In other words, if you are the attacking side you cannot gain an advantage by impeding a defending player. The operative phrase there is, “gain an advantage” and that is what is missing.

Someone well versed in rules will probably say well the rules also state that a man not in possession of the ball cannot be impeded. This is true, however this is where common sense and discretion has to be applied to our game, otherwise we have mayhem of the type we have seen this season. My dear friend Gus Gould, for whom I have the utmost respect, has taught his players if you are not sure if a player looks like getting the ball, tackle him anyway. He was and

R AY ’ S W R A P

Daniel Anderson in charge.

is still probably a great coach, but how can you allow a player running support to the ball carrier be barreled by the defense on suspicion, that would also be mayhem. However, if that player was in another postcode, to use the popular expression, then common sense and discretion has to be a fabric of our lawmakers.

In summary, writing or making rules are difficult. One thing I am sure of is at all times they need to be administered by people showing the right and proper amount of discretion and common sense. Unfortunately this is not always evident in our game, nor other games for that matter.

Finally in all my 47 years of working and enjoying our game, I have never had a Director of Referees contact me and ask for my opinion. Earlier this month, Daniel Anderson became the first.

May 2013

19

F E AT U R E

Barry O’C onnell.

Senior sportswriter Geoff Prenter, the founder of Rugby League Week in 1970, reflects on Easts’ Sonny Bill Williams-driven explosion into the newspaper headlines of season 2013, and remembers a different world: a time when the team in the red, white and blue were still the `Tricolours’ and Sunday afternoons on which there was no better place in the world for a young bloke to be than on the hill at the old Sydney Sports Ground.

I

sometimes ruminate as to why I was so attracted to Eastern Suburbs, then the Tricolours, when I was in short pants. Actually, I wasn’t attracted, I was addicted. Easts were my way of life.

From the age of 13 to the time I got my first job as a copyboy at the Daily Telegraph in 1959, I don’t believe I missed a single Easts’ game, home or away. Win or lose, I was there - usually with a great mate, Bob Horsell, who later in life became Chairman of Cricket NSW. And when I wasn’t cheering for Tony Paskins and, to a lesser degree, John “Rupert’ Mudge and the men in red, white and blue, I was reading W.F. Corbett’s columns in The Sun newspaper.“Old Bill” wrote more about Easts than any other club.

In the embryonic days of television in the ‘50s, front row great Ray Stehr hosted two programs

20

May 2013

and his tag line was always-“Easts To Win!” I was so fanatical that long term committeemen, Jack Lynch, Doug Fry, Bobby Seabrook, Bob Stuart and Keith Lindsay agreed to “breaking the rules” - and afforded me club membership when I was just 16. To this day I believe I hold the honour of being the club’s youngest ever member.

Due to location Easts was a club that boasted a vast array of colourful supporters – the likes of racing legends such as celebrated punter `Hollywood’ George Edser, SP doyen George Freeman and gambling den supremo, Perc Galea.

Even today, Kings Cross personality John Ibrahim is a loyal fan.

Accordingly back then, with colourful racing identities dotted through the crowd, innuendo clouded the odd Easts’ performance. However,

F E AT U R E

Paskins.

there was always the steadying presence of Cardinal Freeman, perched high in the stand alongside Club Boss Ron Jones, the man who saved Easts from extinction when he was headhunted from Millers Brewery to take over the running of the Easts Leagues Club.

The good Cardinal provided parity to the hard core `colourful racing personalities’ scattered in various sections of the Sydney Sports Ground.

Bob Horsell and I quickly became Tony Paskins’ devotees… but more of that later.

I lived in the Eastern Suburbs, firstly in Elizabeth Bay and then Potts Point-neither known for producing halfbacks or front row forwards but, nevertheless, within the boundaries of the Eastern Suburbs and just two short bus rides to the then, Sydney Sports Ground. But our treks were far and wide – bus or tram rides on a Saturday or Sunday afternoon to wherever Easts were playing. Even a bus to Cumberland Oval, home of the Eels to see the likes of fullback Ken Thornett put the cleaners through our defence.

Easts played an open brand of football, too often the ball landing on turf rather than hand!

But, nevertheless, “open” and sometimes exciting, especially when fullback-centre Paskins

returned from Workington Town in England.

I never had a grandstand seat but staked a claim on the sunny side of the western hill, with Bob, the late Bill Casey, then turf editor of The Sun (later to become one of the best sports editors I had the pleasure of working with) my son’s godfather, Max Presnell, ace journalist Frank Crook and other-true red, white and blue men... although Max had (and has!) a leaning towards the Rabbitohs, due to his father having a pub in Kensington.

At the Sports Ground which ran east-west, if you won the toss, you ran in the first half from the eastern end (the Bondi end) so as to avoid the blinding sun in the second half. Johnny Peard was yet to introduce “the bomb” into Rugby League but up-and-unders came aplenty to the luckless side that lost the toss.

Names that readily come to my mind from those days as a fan and later Rugby League writer are Paskins, Barry O’Connell, Ray Thomas, Brian Allsop, Bob Landers, Bill Roney, Ken Van Heekeren, John `Straw’ Andrew, Ken Ashcroft, Kevin Ashley, Ferris Ashton, Kevin Hansen, Terry Fearnley, Jack Gibson, Billy McNamara, Bruce Ranier, Dick See, Bobbie Heffernan, Ron Booth and the South African Louis Neumann.

There were wharfies among them…..but also there, a couple of erudite characters in medical student, soon to be Dr, Bill Roney and Dick See, a local pharmacist. Dick played in a headgear and was a quality act, as was Roney, a classic centre.

But Paskins was my pin-up. He was a burly bloke who looked anything but a finely tuned athlete. He remains one of the most creative players I have ever seen. If he was ever ruled out with injury, I felt down-trodden. Paskins converted mediocre players into genuine match winners, O’Connell and Van Heekeren, to name but two.

He was a truly gifted footballer, possessing so much anticipation that he was usually one step ahead of the game. And it was Paskins who pioneered among Australian goal-kickers, the around-the-corner style – a legacy he brought from Workington Town.

Ray Thomas as a creator of tries for his outside man, there were none better. A centre who was just that - a centre.

May 2013

21

F E AT U R E Easts had players in that era that would be welcome into any side today. I picture Paskins sending Sonny Bill cruising to the line. It’s a dream I wish would come true.

In more recent times there came along champions like Ron Coote, Arthur Beetson, Bobby Fulton... and long, long before them, of course, the one and only Dally Messenger- `The Master’.

Today in 2013 it’s the “Sonny Bill show.” He will be the biggest box office hit of the modern game - and well done to Chairman Nick (Politis) for landing him.

Nick this year celebrates 37 years with the Roosters, 24 as president. I once shared a regular table with Nick for lunch, fellow “associate” members of a group of “colourful” (there’s that word again) Darlinghurst detectives, lovingly known as “the Darlo Desperates.”

The lunch time patter was always dominated

by Rugby League… and Easts. Nick wanted a commercial involvement with Rugby League.

t and Fearnley.

Gibson ,Ashcrof

22

May 2013

His company, City Ford, was out to capitalise on the fervent popularity of the game. So, I introduced Nick to Ron Jones one day and it was only a matter of time before Easts became the first club to be sponsored.

That was back in 1976. Nick Politis has never lost his passion for the Roosters. It’s my view that as a club president he has no peer, past or present.

Easts in the sixties, seventies and then the Roosters in the eighties, nineties and the 21st century- went from two days a week training to full-time professionalism - round-the-clock routines of field training, gym training, bonding camps, public appearances, endorsements, media demands.

But allow me to let you into a secret: the game is no better today than it was on those afternoons when Tony Paskins drew the man... and slipped a try-laden pass to either the inside or outside centre.

WINTER SHIRAZ PACK

MEN OF LEAGUE FOUNDATION

GOLF CHALLENGE Sunday 26th May 2013

Shotgun Start 10.00am 4 Person Ambrose Men’s, Ladies & Mixed Teams Welcome Registration & Breakfast 9.00am Sharp

HOSTED BY NELSON BAY GOLF CLUB

$90 PER PLAYER Entries Close May 13th (Unless Full Prior) 2 course Dinner on Saturday Night Cost $50 pp with Guest Speaker John “The Bomber” Peard

GOLF, BREAKFAST, SAUSAGE SIZZLE ON THE COURSE. CAP, SHIRT & BALL. GOLF DAY INCLUDES:

• INTER BRANCH CHALLENGE AND STATE OF ORIGIN • MEN’S, LADIES & MIXED TEAMS EVENTS

CONTACT: Nelson Bay Golf Club TEL: (02) 4981 1132 EMAIL: golfclub@nelsonbaygolf.com.au TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR: Max Pride 0428 612 736

PROUDLY SPONSORED BY

DAVE CROSSLEY

MEN OF LEAGUE FOUNDATION GOLF CHALLENGE ENTRY FORM 2013 PLEASE COMPLETE AND RETURN TO: NELSON BAY GOLF CLUB, DOWLING STREET NELSON BAY NSW 2315 FAX: 02 4981 2412 EMAIL: golfclub@nelsonbaygolf.com.au NAME 1:...................................................................................................................GOLF $90 Tick Box q Dinner $50 Tick Box q Golflink No or Club: ......................................................................... Hcp:.................. NON Hcp:.....................

Men of League Branch:................................................................................................................................

NAME 2:...................................................................................................................GOLF $90 Tick Box q Dinner $50 Tick Box q Golflink No or Club: ......................................................................... Hcp:.................. NON Hcp:.....................

Men of League Branch:................................................................................................................................

NAME 3:...................................................................................................................GOLF $90 Tick Box q Dinner $50 Tick Box q Golflink No or Club: ......................................................................... Hcp:.................. NON Hcp:.....................

Men of League Branch:................................................................................................................................

NAME 4:...................................................................................................................GOLF $90 Tick Box q Dinner $50 Tick Box q Golflink No or Club: ......................................................................... Hcp:.................. NON Hcp:.....................

Men of League Branch:................................................................................................................................

• Entries close 13th May 2013 unless full prior.

• Payment must accompany entry form.

• Carts are not included and must be booked through the pro-shop on 4981 2073.

• Please indicate if you have booked or have access to a cart.

SATURDAY 25TH MAY 2013 OPTIONAL: 2 Course Dinner: 7pm for 7.30pm -$50 pp (ADD to Entry Fee) Includes GUEST Speaker John “The Bomber” Peard SUNDAY 26TH MAY 2013 8.30 – 9.30 am Registration & Breakfast at the Nelson Bay Golf Club followed by Shotgun Start at 10.00am sharp. A sausage sizzle will be provided on the course HANDICAPS: AGU & LGU players: Maximum handicap, Men 36, Women 45 - Non Handicapped players: Men 20, Women 36 Cash, Visa, MasterCard or Cheque (Payable to Nelson Bay Golf Club, PO Box 33, Nelson Bay, NSW 2315) Name on Card:.......................................................................

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OFFICE USE ONLY: Date Rec’d:......................Payment Method:.......................... Amount:.......................

F E AT U R E

signing

STERLO

26

May 2013

BY TERRY FEARNLEY

N

ot often in your life do you come across someone whose destiny you believe has been pre-ordained. In my case it happened early January 1978 when I was still trying to come to terms with Parramatta’s devastating loss to St George in the 1977 Grand Final replay.

I had gone to Wagga Wagga to meet a young lad by the name of Peter Sterling. The meeting came about through a friend, Jim Doran. He insisted I go and talk to this youngster who had played for the New South Wales Schoolboys in the previous season. Well, everyone believes they have a great tip for you on player recruitment, so I headed down to Wagga feeling fairly sceptical about the whole matter.

I had never heard of Peter Sterling, let alone seen him play.

After chatting to this unassuming 17 year old for thirty minutes, there was no doubt in my mind that this young man was special. It wasn’t anything he said, it wasn’t overconfidence, it was just a self-assurance that he could get the job done and that Rugby League was going to be his career.

In some respects, when I first met him, he reminded me of Tom Raudonikis in his younger days. They are completely different characters on an off the field and yet there was that same will to win and desire to get to the top. We shook hands on an agreement and Peter was bound for Parramatta.

Peter had lost his mother as a youngster and had been raised by his father and sisters. He had attended Kooringal High in Wagga Wagga in 1977, achieved a mark of 246 in the HSC which disappointed him, so he was keen to attend school again in 1978 to get a better result with a view to doing a Phys Ed course at Sydney University. Fairfield Patrician Brothers was the school we both thought would suit him. Academically they were strong and rather fanatical about their Rugby League.

As soon as I got back to Sydney, I made an appointment with Brother Aengus, school principal at St Pat’s. The new school year was only a couple of weeks away and Year 12 classes were just about complete. Brother Aengus is a very charming Irishman, but tough as teak, with a forthright personality and he doesn’t like

F E AT U R E

having his time wasted. I sat opposite him in his office. “I have a boy that would like to attend your school.” I said. Aengus continued with is paperwork and gave me the impression that he needed another HSC student like a hole in the head. Perhaps I was too late. After some hesitation, I said “He plays football.”. Aengus slowly looked up. I told him of Peter’s HSC result the previous year and his desire to achieve better. A flicker of interest.

“Peter played five-eighth for the NSW Schoolboys last year.” I said “Terry, he’d be most welcome.” he replied in that beautiful Irish brogue.

History shows Peter led their team to a great win in the Amco Shield and achieved an excellent result in the HSC. At year’s end I met with Aengus again and asked him how Peter went. He said: “He was marvellous, but did you know that he ran the SP at the school?”

Prior to settling into his first year in Sydney, Peter stayed with my family at Yowie Bay for a week. He travelled up from Wagga by train and my son Scott and I drove into Central Railway to pick him up. It was a good week. The first thing that Peter did was to take Scott down to the local school to kick a ball around. We played

tennis, went ten pin bowling. Peter organised card games with the kids. Fortunately they didn’t have any money. We talked sport generally, and not just Rugby League. At the end of the week when Peter left, my wife said: “That boy will play for Australia one day.”

The only problem in those early years was holding Peter back in the lower grades. Mentally he would have had no trouble coping with first grade, but he needed time to mature physically.

But as luck would have it, at finals time in 1978, Peter’s first year in grade, Parramatta had every fullback in the club out injured – Mark Levy, Phil Mann and Greg Moore.

We were due to play our arch enemies Manly on the Sydney Cricket Ground. I looked around at our playing personnel and the only one I felt could handle fullback in this critical game was Peter Sterling. I asked him. All he said was: “I have never played fullback, but I’ll give it a go.” He had an outstanding game under enormous pressure. He was very nervous prior to kick-off but once he ran onto the hallowed turf in front of a capacity crowd, he was completely at home, even playing out of position. This was the start of a fabulous Rugby league career which I am sure was scripted by some much higher authority than I. Peter’s great attributes on field were his positive attitude, self-assurance and confidence, all of which are contagious and they certainly rubbed off on his team mates. He could read the game so well, he was always ahead of the opposition. His record speaks for itself: • 227 First Grade games for Parramatta • Premierships 1981, 1982, 1983 and 1986 • Rothmans Medal Winner 1987 and 1990 • Dally M Player of the Year • R.L.W. Player of the Year • 18 Test matches between 1982-1988 • 13 Games for NSW 1981-1988 • Wembly Final for Hull Since retiring from playing Rugby League Peter has been the recipient of numerous welldeserved honours and awards.

His wonderful playing career ended in 1992 due to a shoulder injury. Peter Sterling played a class of controlled Rugby League that was second to none and his career leaves us a lasting memory of true sportsmanship.

May 2013

27

F E AT U R E

I

n the course of the avalanche of generous words that farewelled one of the game’s all-time greats Ian Walsh in the town of Forbes recently, one of juiciest but largely unknown `secrets’ of Rugby League managed to remain intact.

It’s a remarkable story: of how Walsh, St George legend and Australian Rugby League icon, would have worn the red, white and blue of Eastern Suburbs - and not the red and white of the Saints - if it hadn’t been for the knees of a forgotten Frenchman. The fact is that Walsh accepted an offer to come down and play with the Tricolours (in pre-Roosters days) SIX YEARS before he joined the Saints.

It was 1956, the year of the Melbourne Olympics. The formidable Ray Stehr, Easts’ president, offered Walsh a contract and a job - and the young hooker (then 23) grabbed the chance, and caught the steam train to Sydney.

There, one terrible night in Bondi, his world fell apart. He had by then trained twice with the club at Sydney Sports Ground. Easts had organised temporary accommodation for him at the Bondi Hotel and all seemingly was going well. But on an evening that changed his life direction he collapsed in dreadful pain, and ended up lying in the gutter outside the hotel, dressed in pyjamas and dressing gown.

An agonising kidney problem that had started in 1951 when a French player kneed him in the back in the match between Western Division and France in Forbes, early on the fabled tour of that year, had returned, savagely. Walsh staggered out of the pub that night seeking a taxi to take him to hospital, but drivers and passers-by looked the other way as he lay in the gutter, believing him to be a drunk. Finally, he flagged down a cab and was ferried to a hospital in Randwick where he would spend the next six weeks. There he underwent major surgery; the doctors told him he would never play football again - and it was a sad and dispirited Ian Walsh who pulled the plug on Easts and the big city and dragged

28

May 2013

IAN WALSH Abdul: Farewell to a League Great

BY IAN HEADS

F E AT U R E himself back to Forbes, stony broke and with his weight down to 10stone 4lbs (63.5 kilos).

But Ian Walsh, such an indomitable spirit, of courses did play again - re-starting with the team from Eugowra, the little town that in the passing of time he put on the map… even though Walsh, in his modest way, always reckoned Eugowra had put him on the map. In years that followed he would inevitably be referred to as `Eugowra pig farmer Ian Walsh’ in the Sydney press- the fact being that he and his wife Margot worked a small property out along the Grenfell Road from the little midwest town. From there Walsh, who would become `Abdul’ to all and sundry after his great mate at St George Bill `Bluey’ Wilson laid that `handle on him, joined an elite club which will never have another member comprising those who rose through the ranks of representative football while still playing in the `bush’… and made it all the way to the green and gold of Australia - in Ian Walsh’s case to the captaincy of his country..

The funeral on April 10 this year at St Laurence Catholic Church Forbes, followed by a large gathering at the town’s Bowling Club, represented, in toto, a wonderful and fitting tribute to the great hooker and Australian captain, kicked off by a funny and emotional eulogy delivered by journalist Ray Chesterton.

On hand were representatives of every aspect of his life - all the way from famed St George teammates such as Johnny Raper, Graeme Langlands through much admiredy league men like Keith Barnes, Bob Fulton, Noel Cleal and Craig and Dean Young on to local blokes who had known him, played against him ….and to the very many local folk from surrounding hamlets who, simply, thought the world of him. Daughter Donna, whose love and care had so sustained him in the last segment of his life was understandably close to overwhelmed by it all, the realisation that her dad had been so many things to so many people - and all of it positive.

Among his other attributes of warm friendship, a generous spirit, loyalty and great leadership qualities, Ian Walsh of course was one of the finest of all Rugby League hookers - arguably the best of them all. With his cleverness and creativity around the ruck he laid a foundation for all who followed. He was also one of the

most courageous of players, overcoming severe illness and injury problems (including to an arm that was badly broken twice against the Frenchmen in successive years) David Middleton’s typically meticulous statistics presented here, tell the full story of a wonderful career. The stories behind the story are too numerous by far to recount; to have captain-coached Australia to a series win against Great Britain and St George to a premiership in a single season (1966) is just one of them. If you can find a copy of his 1968 autobiography, a book that has long since disappeared - INSIDE RUGBY LEAGUE (by Ian Walsh and Keith Willey) - grab it. It is one of the finest of its genre.

The great hooker was also a helluva newspaper columnist. I had the pleasure of working with him for years at the Daily Telegraph, as did Ray Chesterton - and he struck me from the start as creative force, a man who always had a strong idea or three to offer about Rugby League and who would hammer them home with force, as if dealing with some hated Pom hooker.

Ian John Walsh was 80 when he died. His deeds guarantee he won’t be forgotten. He was a true champion of Rugby League’s story - and the game will always be the poorer when it loses someone of the quality of the man they called `Abdul’.

May 2013

29

MEN OF LEAGUE

WEEKEND

6-7 JULY

CALLING ALL CLUBS AND TEAMS Support Men of League by wearing Men of League socks on the weekend of 6 and 7 July. Let’s raise awareness of the great work of Men of League. This year, all funds raised will go towards supporting members of the Rugby League community who have suffered spinal cord injuries.

Purchase your online at

socks

menofleague.com

make a difference. and

Why not organise a fundraising event for Men of League on the weekend of 6-7 July? For more information contact Men of League on 02 8765 2235.

F E AT U R E

ANDREW SCIPIONE APM

NSW Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione presented the NSW Police Medal to Kevin Bilko Roberts in recognition of his service to the Force.

BY BARRY ROSS

A

ndrew Scipione is a Rugby League fan.

Despite his busy schedule, the NSW Police Commissioner still finds time to follow his favourite team, the Wests Tigers. As well as this, he strongly supported the formation of a NSW Police Force Branch of the Men of League three years ago. “Police have a proud tradition of giving wherever they can,” the Commissioner said, “and they are often among the first to put up their hand to get involved in community activities. So the Men of League was an opportunity that we were very happy to be a part of.”

At a recent luncheon at South Sydney Juniors, the Commissioner again endorsed the great works of Men of League. The function, held by the progressive Sydney Metro branch, was a tribute to the many Indigenous players who have been involved in Rugby League and to recognise the contribution of former leading referee, Kevin ‘Bilko’ Roberts. The Commissioner presented a

Police Medal to Kevin Roberts.

During his speech, the Commissioner firstly paid tribute to the numerous Indigenous players and communities who have given so much to Rugby League, not only as players, but also as sporting heroes and role models. He went on to say that police and their families, at all levels of the game, have had a long affiliation with the game as players, coaches, trainers, officials and administrators, as well as passionate Rugby League supporters.

“There have been many serving police officers who have achieved great success on the Rugby League field, the Commissioner emphasised.”

“Players like Johhny ‘Chook’ Raper, Frank ‘Bumper’ Farrell, Brian ‘Chicka’ Moore, Craig Young, Paul Sironen, Paul Osborne, Jeff Emery and of course, Jim Hall.” “They not only made their mark on the playing field, but also as serving police officers.”

“Our association with the greatest game of all, has not been limited to the playing roster.”

May 2013

31

F E AT U R E “Some of the top referees have also served as police officers and these include Bill Harrigan, Tony Archer, Paul Simpkins, Sean Hamstead and Kevin Roberts.”

Before he presented the Police Medal to Kevin Roberts, the Commissioner gave a brief summary of the referee’s outstanding police career. He began as a police cadet at just 16 years of age in November 1957 and then did general duty work at several locations including Waverley, Darlinghurst, Redfern, Bondi and Paddington. In 1975, Kevin decided to specialise in criminal investigation and started working with the Number 21 Special Squad. As a designated detective, Kevin served at Randwick, Waverley, North Sydney and Harbourside. On 23 January 1999, Detective Inspector Kevin Roberts wrapped up a distinguished policing career, after more than 41 years, as the Crime Manager at Harbourside Local Area Command.

Andrew Scipione has held the position of NSW Police Commissioner since 1 September 2007. He holds a Masters Degree in Management from Macquarie University, as

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May 2013

“

...police and their families, at all levels of the game, have had a long affiliation with the game as players, coaches, trainers, officials and administrators, as well as passionate Rugby League supporters.

”

well as several other academic qualifications.

He is a recipient of the Australian Police Medal, the NSW Police Medal and the National Medal, while in 2007 he was given a NSW State Government Service Medal.

Finishing up his speech at South Sydney Juniors, Andrew said that the primary objective of the Men of League is very straight-forward.

“It exists to support former players, coaches, administrators, referees, officials and their families, who have fallen on hard times,” the Commissioner said.

“This assistance is very much needed and I’m proud that the NSW Police Force is able to provide whatever support we possibly can.”

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F E AT U R E

H

BY BARRY ROSS

Barry Ross, Caryl Raper, John Raper, Sue Ross cruising on the Pacific Jewell.

e may be 74 years of age but Johnny Raper is still very much an icon of Australian Sport.

A member of the Team of the Century and an Immortal, John was a presenter on a recent Carnival Cruise to nowhere. During this three day journey, John presented two Rugby League sessions in the Marque Show Lounge. John discussed the Team of the Century and the Immortals. John spoke passionately about his love for the game and when asked about the voting for the Immortals, he told the audience that he received a vote and was part of the decision making process to elect the eighth Immortal. “Joey is a great player, but I voted for Norm Provan,“ John said. “It’s nothing personal, but I have always thought that Norm should have been an Immortal before me.”

Over 300 people turned up for each session and included a long autograph and photo sitting.

A very patient John and his wife Caryl were continually asked to have a photo taken with many of the passengers. It could have been a cruise on Captain Stubbing’s ‘Love Boat’, from the 1970s and 1980s, such was the affection shown for the great lock forward.

WE NEED YOUR HELP! The Rugby League Museum is now looking for people to lead the Rugby League Museum’s Volunteers Program.

As a member of the Men of League, you are invited to be part of this exciting program. Please go to rugbyleague.com.au/rlmvolunteer and complete the Volunteer Registration Form.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUERIES OR QUESTIONS PLEASE EMAIL: museum@rugbyleaguecentral.com.au

May 2013

35

F E AT U R E

Tom Ryan

BY BARRY ROSS

1

952 Kangaroo Tom Ryan certainly knew his way to the try line. In around 120 first class matches he scored 115 tries. A powerful winger or centre, Tom was the second highest try scorer on the 1952 Kangaroo tour of England and France when he collected 24 tries from his 20 matches.

He began playing Rugby League at the Delungra Public School in the New England district and later attended the famous Rugby Union school, St. Josephs College in Sydney, where he gained selection in the first XV, who won the 1947 GPS Firsts competition.

In 1951, Tom was chosen to partner Matt McCoy (2 Tests) for the first competition match of the season against Manly at Kogarah Oval on 7 April. Although the Sea Eagles won 18-13, Tom retained his place, and the next week opened his first grade try scoring account in the 47-4 thrashing of Canterbury.

Tom celebrating his 80th birthday with his 22 Grandchildren.

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May 2013

Tom playing on the 1952 Kangaroo Tour.

The next year Tom began the season on fire scoring at least one try in each of the first seven competition games, including three against Manly at the SCG on 19 April, 1952.

Tom made his Test debut at Bradford on 13th December 1952 in Australia’s 27-7 win over Great Britain and raced in for two tries within four minutes late in the second half to seal the victory. He also played in all three Tests against France, scoring another double in the first Test 16-12 win at Paris on 27 December.

Tom played 84 games for St. George in his seven seasons, scoring 66 tries. He was a member of the Dragons 1956 and 1957 Grand Final winning teams. He was the season’s leading try scorer in 1957 with 26 and scored four tries in three successive games against Parramatta, Roosters and Canterbury.

Nowadays Tom lives at Berry with his wife Ann and has seven children and 22 Grandchildren.

QLD RUGBY LEAGUE

QUEENSLAND WOMEN CELEBRATE 15TH STRAIGHT SUCCESS

BY MICHAEL HILLIER

Q

ueensland’s dominant Women’s side overcame early fumbles and a committed New South Wales side to record their 15th straight Interstate Challenge victory, following their 30-12 win at Davies Park.

The game was closer than the final score indicated, with Queensland forced to work hard to firstly get in front and then go on with the match to claim the Nellie Doherty Cup. A young New South Wales side didn’t seem to be fazed at all by the dominance of their northern counterparts and started well, capitalising on some uncharacteristic Queensland errors.

After the visitors threatened early, winger Tegan Chandler showed her speed to run around the Queensland defenders and cross for the opening points of the match – and given how well NSW were playing, there seemed to be plenty more points on offer. However, the experienced Queensland side soon found their rhythm and were able to hit back with two quick

tries, and after being on the back-foot, went into the break with a 10-6 lead.

Pelting rain greeted the two sides when the second half began, but that did little to dampen the resolve of the Queensland side which started strongly, scoring another try in the opening moments of the half.

Centre Jo Barrett just out-sprinted her winger to get the first touch on the ball, but it showed how committed the team were to getting the result. From there, the tone was set and the enthusiastic NSW side did their best to try and hold out the Queensland women, but they proved to be too strong and too fast.

Queensland’s next two tries came from powerful runs from their forwards, with player of the match Steph Hancock dragging defenders with her over the line. In the end, it proved too much for the NSW side to overcome; although they were rewarded for their persistence when Chandler latched on to an intercept and ran the length of the field to score her second try.

May 2013

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3 1 0 2 A N WI LEAGUE WORLD CUP RUGBY E L P O E P 2 R TOUR FO

11 NIGHTS - 20 November 2013 - 2 December 2013

: S N O I S U L C ALL IN •

E • RUG BY LEAGU E EXPERI ENC TOU R PACK • INTERNATIONAL FLIG HTS SYDNEY/BR ISBANE / ME LBOUR NE – LON DON AND MANCHESTER RETUR N INCLUDING TAXES

•

DAY TOUR OF LONDON

•

TR IBUTE TO ENGLISH RUGBY LEAG UE DAY WITH MI KE “STEVO “STEPHE NSON

•

TR IBUTE TO ENGLISH SPORT DAY INCLU DING LU NC H

•

ATTE NDANCE AT PR EM IER LEAG UE (IF POSSIBLE BASE D ON 2013/14 FIXTU RES)

• 11 NIG HTS 4 STAR ACCOM MODATION INCLUDING BR EAKFASTS: 6 NIG HTS LON DON (HOLIDAY INN KENSINGTON FOR UM, MILLEN IUM GLOUCESTE R) 5 NIG HTS MANCH ESTER (MIDLAN D, CROWN E PLAZA, ARORA)

• COACH TRANSFERS AS PER ITIN ERARY

CATEGORY 1 MATCH TICKETS TO: 23/11/13 DOUB LE HEAD ER SE MI-FI NALS (WEM BL EY LONDON) 30/11/13 FINAL (OLD TRAFFORD MANCHEST ER)

•

FU LLY CATE RE D RUGB Y LEAG UE EVENTS IN LE EDS AN D MANCHESTER

IZE : R P UE L VA ,098 $15 PLEASE CONTACT YOUR LOCAL COMMITTEE OR SYDNEY OFFICE FOR TICKET SALES 02 8765 2232

TICKETS - $5 Drawn at the QLD Annual Dinner in Brisbane on Friday 11th October 2013

NRL MASTERS

SEVENTH ANNUAL NRL MASTERS CARNIVAL A HUGE SUCCESS

A record number of 64 teams attended the recent NRL Masters Carnival on Queensland’s fabulous Gold Coast. Held at the ‘Home of the Masters’, the Runaway Bay Seagulls Rugby League Club, participants took part in the football and social activities with great enthusiasm!

The carnival program runs over four days: • Wednesday – Player Registration, Managers Meeting, Welcome Dinner • Thursday – Day 1 games • Friday – Day 2 games • Saturday – Day 3 games, Closing Dinner The special guest for the Welcome Dinner was former Rabbitohs captain and NRL Ambassador Mario Fenech, whilst Men of League Director and former Western Suburbs legend Noel Kelly spoke at the Closing Dinner.

‘Ned’ passed on some interesting stories about his time in the game and he was warmly received by the large crowd.

This year, the carnival was subjected to heavy

SOME INTERESTING STATISTICS FROM THE CARNIVAL: • Total participants - players, team officials, event staff, volunteers, match officials, spouses, partners, children and spectators – were over 2,000 • Teams came from across Australia – NSW 28, QLD 28, VIC 4, ACT 3 and Norfolk Island 1 • The oldest players was 82 years old • 48 players over the age of 60 took part

rain in the lead-up and two playing fields were closed, resulting in an amended draw. Six fields were still available and all 160 games were played as scheduled.

As always, Men of League were involved in the carnival with a membership drive at player registration and Friday being nominated as Men of League Day. The NRL Masters carnival is proudly supported

by Tourism and Events Queensland.

May 2013

39

AUSTRALIAN’S WOMEN RUGBY LEAGUE

WOMEN’S ALL STARS T

he Women’s All Stars kicked off the 2013 Harvey Norman Rugby League All Stars match-day festival with a resounding 38-6 win over the Women’s Indigenous All Stars at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium.

The first half was tightly contested with the Women’s All Stars taking a slim 8-6 lead into the break, but a half-time team talk saw them turn it around with a dominating display in the second half.

Women’s All Stars Captain Karyn Murphy said: “We expected it to be tough after last year’s draw and the Indigenous Women’s team came out fighting hard in the first half.

“We had a good talk at half-time, stuck to our game plan and wore them down in the second half.”

It was a year of Rugby League pedigree for the women’s teams with Kandy Kennedy, the daughter of William ‘Bubba’ Kennedy (Balmain Tigers 1996-98), Belmont’s Nakia Davis-Welsh, the daughter of Paul Davis (Balmain Tigers 1992-93), were part of the 20-person squad which also includes 36-year-old Teresa Anderson from Springfield QLD. Ruan Sims, the sister of Cowboys stars Ashton and Tariq Sims, was also one of six debutants selected for the 2013 Women’s All Stars team.

What’s next?

The women will come together in March for the annual Interstate challenge against Queensland and NSW which will be used as the selection platform for the Jillaroos squad who will take on the World’s best in the UK at the Festival of the World Cups in July.

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May 2013

COUNTRY RUGBY LEAGUE

MOSS VALE DRAGONS NEW RECRUIT

N

athan Hindmarsh has officially confirmed he will play for the Moss Vale Dragons this year.

The Dragons took on local rivals Mittagong Lions at Community Oval on March 24 and Moss Vale President Greg Maloney said the match was a priority for Hindmarsh. Maloney said it was a massive boost for the club after they struggled last season and could only field a second division team.

While his commitments to Fox Sports and the NRL will prevent him from playing every match throughout the season, Maloney said he would be available for most games.

The club’s Ross Webb said it was not only about his contribution on the field but what he could teach the younger players.

“The big thing with Nathan playing is not only what he brings as a player but what he and Scott Geddes will be able to teach young players like Aaron Cummings, Jordan Grey, Jack Webb plus our under-18s side,” he said.

“Put these players with the likes of Josh

Champion, Damian Barton, Brett Cummings and Matt Conquest and things are looking very strong for the Dragons to put a competitive side on the park for 2013.”

Andrew Bowie who has stepped into the role of first grade coach, previously played with Hindmarsh and also former South Sydney Rabbitoh Scott Geddes who will also be joining the club for 2013. The big name stars have already attracted a number of players back to the club including halfback Shane Martin, Elliot Esquilant and Nick Wilkinson who returned from overseas. Robert Wiya will also return from a shoulder injury he sustained in 2010.

“Things are looking quite bright for the club and I can see us fielding three good sides and being highly competitive. A few big names will make it interesting for spectators,” Maloney said.

Maloney thanked the club’s major sponsors Hume Coal, Moss Vale Motor Group and Moss Vale Hotel for remaining on board with the Dragons.

May 2013

41

F E AT U R E

DIANE LANGMACK OAM

BY BARRY ROSS

A

proud Diane Langmack deservedly received an OAM on Australia Day this year. She was given this prestigious honour for her tireless work with several charities over a long period of time. The sister of Paul and Peter Langmack, Diane was diagnosed with Non Hodgkin Lymphoma cancer in 2006, but

Paul Langmack in action for Wests.

Diane Langmack.

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May 2013

Paul Langmack in action for Canterbury.

F E AT U R E instead of surrendering to this problem, Diane decided to help her doctor, Professor John Rasko, by raising funds for further medical research. Despite the side effects of intensive chemotherapy, Diane gave numerous hours to her work and support for the Cure The Future Foundation. As well as this, she has worked voluntarily for several well known charitable organisations, including the Victor Chang Foundation, the Children’s Hospital, the National Breast Cancer Foundation and Panthers on the Prowl.

Diane has also played a leading role in the NRL’s Women in League Foundation, which has raised thousands of dollars over the past five years or so. Despite this already hectic schedule, Diane also puts many hours into her position, since 2011, as Chairperson of the Cure The Future Foundation which supports Professor Rasko via the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital at Camperdown.

As recognition of her considerable contribution to charity, Diane was nominated in 2009, 2010 and 2011 for the NRL Woman of

the Year award. She was also nominated for the 2010 NSW Woman of the Year and the 2010 Telstra Business Woman of the Year. In 2010, she was a finalist for the NSW Volunteer of the Year and the NRL Woman of the Year. The NSW Parliament gave her an Outstanding Community Service Award in 2012 for her efforts with the Cure The Future Foundation.

For the past 13 years, Diane has worked for the Penrith Leagues Club and for the last five years has been the Public Relations person. In this role, she works with Phil Gould and other football club officials.

Younger brother Paul was a 1986 Kangaroo and played 315 first grade games with Canterbury, the Wests Magpies and the Roosters, while older brother Peter played 88 first grade games for Parramatta and Penrith.

Peter scored five tries for Penrith against St. George at Penrith in July 1974.

There are some Rugby League people who would say that being a sister to Paul Langmack, Diane should receive a special award for tolerance!

MEN OF LEAGUE SPEAKERS “SHARE THEIR WALL, ENJOY THEIR TALK”

Do you have an upcoming event?

Choose an NRL legend, a Kangaroo, a State of Origin great or Half page ad? your favourite NRL team member to motivate, tell stories, be an interviewee or guest at your next fundraising dinner, sports lunch, awards evening, conference, golf day or event.

Book a speaker for your next event with us today!

• SCOTT SATTLER • JOHN SATTLER • JOHN PEARD

www.menofleaguespeakers.com

• BLOCKER ROACH • LAURIE DALEY • DARRYL BROHMAN

• MARIO FENECH • BILL HARRIGAN

PHONE ICONS OF SPORT ON: 1800 200 476

May 2013

43

MEN OF LEAGUE 2013 EVENTS CALENDAR MAY 03 May

Northern Sydney

Golf Day

Long Reef Golf Club

03 May

Riverina

Wagga Gold Cup Breakfast

Wagga Wagga

03 May

Tweed District

Golf Day

Tweed Heads Coolangatta Golf Club

16 May

WA

Legends of League Night

Finucane Club

17 May

Toowoomba

Kick Off Club

Toowoomba Sports Club

24 May

Bundaberg

Kick Off Club

Slater Oval

24 May

Brisbane

Golf Day

Keperra Country Golf Club

24 May

Central Coast

Members Night

Central Coast Leagues Club

24 May

Illawarra

Kick Off Club

Bellambi Hotel

24 May

Toowoomba

Golf Day/Sportspersons luncheon

Gatton golf club

25 May

Newcastle Hunter

Annual Gala Golf Classic - Dinner

Nelson Bay Golf Club

26 May

Newcastle Hunter

Annual Gala Golf Classic – Golf Day

Nelson Bay Golf Club

01 Jun

Tweed District

Day at the Dogs

Border Park Tweed Heads

04 Jun

Sunshine Coast

State of Origin luncheon

Mooloolaba Surf Club

05 Jun

Melbourne

State of Origin Evening

Limerick Hotel, South Melbourne

13 Jun

Sunshine Coast

Kick Off Club

Mooloolaba Surf Club

16 Jun

Melbourne

Men’s Health Week Fundraiser

AAMI Park

19 Jun

Brisbane

Kick Off Club

Bronco’s Leagues Club

26 Jun

Melbourne

State of Origin Evening

Limerick Hotel, South Melbourne

29 Jun

Mid North Coast

Gala Dinner

Taree League’s Club

01 Jul

Northern Rivers

Sportsmen’s Dinner

East Lismore bowling Club

12 Jul

Toowoomba

Dinner

Toowoomba Sports club

17 Jul

Melbourne

State of Origin Evening

Limerick Hotel, South Melbourne

19 Jul

Illawarra

Bowls Day

Warilla Bowls Club

24 Jul

Central Coast

Race Day

Gosford Race Club

26 Jul

Bundaberg

Kick Off Club

Salter Oval

JUNE

JULY

44

May 2013

AUGUST 08 Aug

Sunshine Coast

Kick Off Club

Mooloolaba Surf Club

21 Aug

Brisbane

Kick Off Club

Bronco’s Leagues Club

13 Sep

Bundaberg

Kick Off Club

Salter Oval

20 Sep

Central Coast

Golf Day

Shelley Beach Golf Club

27 Sep

Illawarra

Finals Luncheon

TBA

29 Sep

Newcastle Hunter

Bowls day

Nelson Bay Bowling Club

10 Oct

Sunshine Coast

Kick Off Club

Mooloolaba Surf Club

11 Oct

Canberra Monaro

Golf Day

Goulburn Golf Club

13 Oct

Tweed District

Bowls Day

Coolangatta Bowls Club

16 Oct

Brisbane

Kick Off Club

Bronco’s Leagues Club

16 Oct

Riverina

Men Of League Race Day

Murrumbidgee Turf Club

18 Oct

Central Highlands

Golf Day/ Sportsman Dinner

TBA

19 Oct

Central Highlands

Mines Rugby League carnival

TBA

01 Nov

Western Region

Golf Day

Dubbo

03 Nov

Far South Coast

Bowls Day

Club Sapphire Merimbula

15 Nov

Bundaberg

Golf Day

North Bundaberg Golf Club

23 Nov

Mid West

Golf Day and Dinner

Lithgow Workers Club

29 Nov

Bundaberg

Kick Off Club

Salter Oval

29 Nov

North Coast

Coffs Harbour Race Luncheon

Coffs Harbour

07 Dec

Sydney Metro

Arthur Beetson Memorial Xmas Lunch

Bondi Icebergs.

07 Dec

Tweed District

Christmas Party

Border Park Tweed Heads

12 Dec

Sunshine Coast

Christmas Luncheon

Mooloolaba Surf Club

18 Dec

Brisbane

Kick Off Club

Bronco’s Leagues Club

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

May 2013

45

NRL

NRL WELFARE

WELFARE & EDUCATION OUR PLAYERS ARE BETTER PEOPLE FOR HAVING BEEN PART OF THE LEAGUE.

This is the vision of NRL/RLPA Welfare and Education. From our Holden Cup “No Work or No Study = No Play” philosophy, to our NRL career and social responsibility programs through to career transition services for retiring players, we aim to help players be successful both on and off the field. Here are just some of their exciting success stories.

DAVID STAGG NRL player, Brisbane Broncos FAST FACTS Junior Club: Aspley Junior NRL Career: 190 games, Broncos (’30 – 08’), Bulldogs (’09-12’) and Broncos (current) Family: Married with 2 kids, a girl and boy

Q: What are the highlights of your near 200-game career so far?

A: Being involved in 2 Grand finals; the first one being in 2006 which we won, but also the quality of players including an International forward pack and backline made it great as did having Wayne Bennett as a coach.

The 2011 Grand Final with the Bulldogs was also a highlight even though we didn’t win. I was a little bit older, I made sure I enjoyed the week in the lead up as the special bond you form makes it enjoyable. In 2009 I was fortunate enough to be named Dally M Lock of the Year and Club Player of the Year.

Q: Being injured currently, what advice do you have for players to deal with times of injury?

A: I am fortunate I have had few injuries and haven’t missed too many games. It’s just part and parcel of the game, these things happen. Just try your best to get back on the field as soon as you can.

Still being involved with the team and supporting them where possible is always important and keeping as positive as you can.

Q: What keeps you busy off the field?

A: My kids keep me busy and active. I have always studied throughout my football career, I personally feel it has kept me sane and been a great balance. I have completed a Diploma of Business, Advanced Diploma in Civil Engineering

46

May 2013

and a Cert IV in Construction. I am very fortunate to work one day a week with BMD Construction Group, which I am gaining great experience and enjoyment out of.

Q: What plans do you have for life after football?

A: I have had the luxury of playing football to be able to have the time to think about what I want to do afterwards. I would definitely like to work in Construction; residential or property development or the bigger jobs in construction and high rises. I am fortunate enough now to be able to gain experience to get an understanding of where I want to go.

DAVID BARNHILL Former player, retired in 2000 FAST FACTS Junior Club: Yanco Wamoon Hawks NRL Career: 237 games, Raiders (’89-91’), Dragons (’92-96’), Roosters (’97-99’), Leeds (‘00’) Rep Career: NSW Origin (’94-99’) Family: Married with 4 kids Business: Owns and operates the William Farrer Hotel, Wagga Wagga

Q: When did you start playing footy and who was your favourite player?

A: I started to play footy when I was 11 years old. I was a mad Parramatta tragic and at the time the Eels were a really good side. I aspired to be like Brett Kenny and couldn’t have been further from him.

Q: Having played 5 Grand Finals, which is your most memorable?

A: They were all memorable. I only won one of them, in 1990 Tim Sheens had 10 of us on the bench and he called me on with 5 minutes to go, which was a bit of a thrill for me to play with the

NRL WELFARE superstars. It was a buzz even though I had just lost the reserve grade grand final, it soon pepped me up doing the lap of honour with all the boys.

Q: What have you been doing since retiring in 2000?

A: I returned to Sydney at the end of 2000 and bought the William Farrer Hotel in Wagga Wagga at Christmas 2000. I also assisted Nathan Brown coaching the Dragons for 3 years which was a great experience.

Q: What are the 2 top things you learnt while playing NRL that are still useful today?

A: The principals around team work relate to business. This would be the biggest thing I have learnt which I apply at my pub as I have 35 staff to look after. Learning to fit in as a group and mixing with people is a very important skill to have.

Q: What advice do you have for players about preparing for life after footy?

A: When I was playing I had a job as a Sales Rep, 20 hours a week. I learnt a lot about people outside the bubble. Everyone thinks it is a great lifestyle but when football finishes you need to know how to live outside the square unless you get a job within football. It’s important to learn the skills of meeting people. I know some clubs have the initiative to get their players to work one day a week to gain experience which is great.

JACKSON MERRITT Holden Cup Under 20’s player,

St George Dragons

FAST FACTS Junior Club: South Dubbo Raiders NYC Career: 5 games to date Family: 2 sisters & 2 brothers Unwinds by: Playing guitar and hanging out with mates at the beach

Q: How was the transition of moving from the country to the city?

A: It was pretty tough for the first couple of months but the Dragons really looked after me with a house parent. Joining the club in the off season was hard as you don’t do much. Once I started training and started school I met a few boys and developed a future, I love it now.

I now live with 2 other players Jared & Jacob and am pretty happy where I am, and have a girlfriend which is pretty good.

Q: What did you do to ensure you got selected in the Holden Cup squad this year?

A: I signed up at my local gym in Woonona out of my own pocket and trained my butt off, but got knocked back and didn’t get a start all year which was disheartening and really tough but I just kept training. This year I gained more size and become a bit faster which has helped me hold onto my spot which is looking alright.

Q: Who is your biggest role model and why?

A: My Dad is my biggest role model, he has always been there for me and if I could be half the father he was I would be happy. Footy related, it’s Andrew Johns. I loved him as a player, not that I am the same position as him or anything.

Q: What are you doing off the field?

A: There’s a fair bit going on. I am at Tafe studying a Diploma of Fitness and will hopefully further my studies and do Sports Science at University.

I work in a sports store and run a boot camp for Ashabines Bikini Challenge as the trainer, training the ladies which gets me into the fitness area, and gaining a lot of experience which is where I want to be and enjoy. This has helped with my income. I am also teaching kids First Aid at a school in Wollongong.

Q: Do you think the Holden Cup rules “No work, no study = no play” helped you?

A: I think it’s a really good philosophy to study because if players don’t make it with footy they will have something to fall back on. Learning all the skills and having opportunities is essential for life after football.

Q: What are your goals both on and off the field for 2013?

A: The main one is to stay fit and healthy and hold onto my spot at St George in the Holden Cup, and hopefully get a new contract whether with St George or anywhere that will give me opportunities.

EMPLOYERS WANTED Can you support one of our under 20s players by providing employment?

“No Work, No Study, No Play” - players need to be studying or working 25 hours per week to be eligible to play in the under 20s .

If you can help or would like further information please contact your local NRL club or Tony McFadyen, U20s Cup Program Manager on (02) 9359 8712 or tmcfadyen@nrl.com.au

May 2013

47

Date: __________________ Name

Date of Birth

Phone

Mobile

M/F

Email Web / Social Media Address Postal address Suburb

State

Postcode

 If these details are not completed in full, the processing of your application may be delayed  Years involved in league (eg: 1968-79):

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Are you an NRL club member?

How many NRL do you attend per season?

Favourite NRL team Favourite state team Would you prefer to receive your magazine via

Post  or Email 

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Yes  or No

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Please select one of the options below:  I will supply my company’s logo for recognition in the Men of League Magazine and on the Website to admin@menofleague.com (where applicable)OR  Please recognise my contribution by having my name in the Men of League Magazine and on the website OR  I do not want to be recognise for my contribution to the Men of League in your magazine or website Please tick payment method:  Direct Deposit

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Direct Deposit Details: Name Men of League Foundation Limited BSB 032 000 Reference GoldMem(YOUR NAME) ACCT 389673  If referenced incorrectly, the processing of your application may be delayed  Name on card

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Please forward your membership a pplication together with your $150 payment to: Men of League Foundation, PO Box 7049, SILVERWATER NSW 2128, or fax 02 8765 2808 For further information please visit www.menofleague.com, email admin@menofleague.com or call 02 8765 2232

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February 2013

!

MENMENOF LEAGUE GOLD FORM OF LEAGUE FOUNDATION GOLDMEMBERSHIP MEMBERSHIP FORM

MEN OF LEAGUE FOUNDATION CORPORATE MEMBERSHIP FORM Date: __________________ Business Name Business Type

Your business’s main contact: Name Phone

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 If these details are not completed in full, the processing of your application may be delayed  Would you prefer to receive your magazine via

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Yes  or No

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Yes  or No

Please select one of the options below:  I will supply my company’s logo for recognition in the Men of League Magazine and on the website to admin@menofleague.com (where applicable) OR  I do not want to be recognise for my contribution to the Men of League in your magazine or website Payment Method:  Direct Deposit

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Please forward your membership a pplication together with your $150 payment to: Men of League Foundation, PO Box 7049, SILVERWATER NSW 2128, or fax 02 8765 2808 For further information please visit www.menofleague.com, email admin@menofleague.com or call 02 8765 2232

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May 2013

!

MEN OF LEAGUE CORPORATE MEMBERSHIP FORM

!

On 11 July 2002, a meeting was held at the NSW Leagues Club to launch the Men of League after Ron Coote AM expressed his concerns after seeing Doug McRitchie dying alone in NSW South Coast hospital. The founders of the Men of League were Ron, Jim Hall and Max Brown. Our aim is to assist those in the rugby league community who have fallen on difficult times. We support players, coaches, referees, administrators, volunteers, and committee, from all levels of the game, through our benevolence and welfare program.

MEN OF LEAGUE MEMBERSHIP FORM

We were awarded charity status in 2006 and in 12 years, we have achieved membership numbers of over 22,000 people from all corners of Australia and from overseas.

Your initial joining fee of $20, will include a Men of League keyring engraved with your membership number, our quarterly magazine, contact with ex-football colleagues and details of local committee events.  Name

Date of Birth

Phone

Mobile

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Email Postal address Suburb

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Postcode

 If these details are not completed in full, the processing of your application may be delayed  Occupation

Years involved in league (eg: 1968-79):

Short league history / cv (including clubs):

Favourite NRL team

Are you an NRL club member?

Favourite state team

How many NRL do you attend per season?

Would you prefer to receive your magazine via post  or email If you choose to receive your magazine via EMAIL only you will be saving the Foundation print and post costs that can be better spent on supporting those in need.

Please tick payment method:  Direct Deposit

 Cheque (to Men of League Foundation)

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Direct Deposit Details: Name Men of League Foundation Limited BSB 032 000 Reference MolMem(YOUR NAME) ACCT 389673  If referenced incorrectly, the processing of your application may be delayed  Name on card

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Please debit $20 from my credit card, signed:

Please forward your membership application together with your $20 payment to: Men of League Foundation, PO Box 7049, SILVERWATER NSW 2128, or fax to 02 8765 2808 For further information please visit www.menofleague.com, email admin@menofleague.com or call 02 8765 2232

Please forward your membership application together with your $20 payment to: Men of League Foundation, PO Box 7049, SILVERWATER NSW 2128, or fax to 02 8765 2808 For further information please visit www.menofleague.com, email admin@menofleague.com or call 02 8765 2232

May 2013

51

COMMITTEE NEWS

COMMITTEE NEWS An enthusiastic group from Crookwell who attended a Men of League meeting in their very friendly town.

BUNDABERG

By Terry Dodd President A very successful Sportsmen Dinner was held on 22 February, with 180 guests attending the night. Our MC was Ben Ikin, who certainly knows how to captivate an audience.

Special guest, John ‘Bomber’ Peard wowed the audience for nearly an hour with his great jokes. Also thanks to John’s carer Ron Pearce for his assistance. As a result of their presence almost $14,000 was raised, which will go to (with the national body approval) Men of League members here in Bundaberg who had their homes inundated with flood water.

Our Kick Off Club got underway on Good Friday with many members turning up to enjoy the night while watching the footy on the big screen, at Bundaberg Rugby League Headquarters. Our next function is the 24 May, so members and intending members, come along and enjoy.

I would like to on behalf of our association wish Graeme ‘Muz’ Murray all the best in his recovery from a recent health scare. We were all shocked by the news, so get well soon and hope to catch up again one day.

CANBERRA MONARO

By Noel Bissett President On 22 February our colleagues from Goulburn, organised a Dinner at the Goulburn Workers Club to raise funds for the Men of League Foundation. The dinner coincided with the Canberra Raiders and Canterbury Bulldogs trial on 23 February. The night was a complete success. Dale Godber and Joe Stephens are congratulated on this well arranged event, along with the Goulburn Workers Club CEO Brett

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Gorham. On 24 February I traveled to Crookwell to attend a meeting with personnel from the town and surrounding areas. During the meeting an outline was given on the procedures that are required by the Men of League. The enthusiasm that was displayed certainly ensures that the membership will expand as surrounding areas become involved. During the meeting a sub committee was formed under the fold of Canberra Monaro. This will now give us two sub committees with the other located in Goulburn. Congratulation’s must go to both Paul Anderson and Chris Peterson for the important part they have played in organising the area.

CENTRAL COAST

By Dennis Tomsett - Publicity Officer A bowls day was held at the Ettalong Bowling Club on 25 February 2013. As in previous years the theme of the day was to wear Rugby League club colours and this was again well supported by the bowlers with local and NRL clubs featured. The fund-raising activities were very successful and we thank the Ettalong Bowling Club for their continued support. Men of League Executive members Jim Hall, Velu Nuumaalii, John Peard and Noel Kelly attended the presentation. Noel and John entertained the bowlers and raised much laughter with their tales. We were privileged to have World Champion Bowler Aaron Sherriff participate in the day and everyone was in awe of his experience and journey to reach world status. It is indeed pleasing to note that Jim Williams a former Erina and Wyong player who suffered a stroke some time ago and confined to a mobilised chair, has now settled into a new Rehabilitation Centre on the Coast. We wish him all the very best with his continued

COMMITTEE NEWS

Central Coast Bowls Day 2013.

improvement. Members please note that a member’s night will be held at the Central Coast Leagues Club on Friday 24 May 2013 commencing at 6.00pm. Our Race Day at Gosford is 25 July 2013 and Golf Day at Shelley Beach is 20 September 2013.

CENTRAL HIGHLANDS

By Robert Stewart The Queensland Central Highlands has a very rich history of Rugby League with a number of current and retired NRL and Queensland Cup players calling the Central Highlands home, so it was only natural that a group of Rugby League enthusiasts came together in November 2011 and formed The Central Highlands Men of League Committee.

In its infancy the first 12 months has been considered a success by the Local Committee with a charity golf day

and charity fight night raising funds of $14,000.

On the back of the 2012 events, 2013 will see the Central Highlands committee hold a major fund-raising weekend planned for Friday October 18 and Saturday October 19. The weekend will commence with a Charity Golf day to be played on the Friday followed by a sportsman dinner Friday night this will lead into the Battle of the Mines Rugby League carnival on the Saturday.

Former NRL players are expected to take part in events with a number already confirming their availability.

The future looks bright for Central Highlands committee who are excited about the work that can be done, and are taking every step to increase its membership base within the Central Highlands. 2013 promises to be another successful year for the Men of League in the Central Highlands and we are all looking forward to the challenges ahead.

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COMMITTEE NEWS FAR SOUTH COAST

By Damian Kennedy – Secretary Men of League on the Far South Coast continues to grow from strength to strength. The Inaugural Golf Day, held recently in Eden, along with the annual Bowls Day and Presentation Dinner were well attended events. Additionally a steady growth of Members is occurring.

Eden Gardens Country Club was the venue for the Inaugural Men of League Golf Day, which was played on Easter Sunday after the original day was washed out. Almost 100 golfers participated in an enjoyable day which culminated in an amusing presentation. Eden members and current players in particular supported the event.

With Rugby League experiencing a growth of interest across the region, a number of events have occurred with the support of Men of League. Bemboka Rugby League Club held a very successful re-union over the Easter weekend.

A True Blues Legends Dinner featuring Laurie Daley, Trent Barrett, Mario Fenech and others. There was also a good role up of Men of League members present on the night. The committee also supported the local Relay for Life event.

With eight senior teams taking the field as well as an increase in Women’s League Tag and Junior League numbers the game is looking very healthy.

Special thanks to radio 2EC Manager Peter Dunnage and Club Sapphire for their continued support along with a number of other organisations on the beautiful Sapphire Coast.

FRASER COAST

By John Bignell - Committee Member Men of League Fraser Coast are now in the steps of organising the Golf and Bowls fund-raising day to be held later in the year. We are all looking forward to this annual event growing bigger and better each year. Any enquiries on membership may be addressed to President Peter Stephenson: peter.stephensen@bigpond.com.

GLADSTONE

By Luke Graham – Publicity Officer North Sydney Bears legends and Gladstone Committee members, Mark Graham and Gary Larson raised $5000, with the help of the young men and women helping build Australia’s coal seam gas plants in Central Queensland.

On March 23, both Mark and Gary had the pleasure of experiencing a day in the lives of the men that are building the plants to facilitate the natural gas boom that has taken over Gladstone.

Bechtel, the mining giant invited both to spend 24 hours experiencing life on Curtis Island, where they were shown through the operations process, the facilities, and the living quarters of the men and women living on the island.

By the end of the night, 50 new members had joined Men of League and over $5000 had been raised.

GOLD COAST

Photo Caption: Left to right, back row: Clinton Toopi, Nate Myles, John Cartwright, Paul Broughton, Kevin Fisher, Paul McCabe, Greg Bird, Bob Honan, Paul Charlton. Middle row: Graeme Farrar, Chris Close, Ken McCracken, Robert Orchard, John Morgan, Mike Cleary, Barry Muir, John Lang, Geoff Richardson. Front row: Bob Bugden, Bob Irvine, Elwyn Walters, John Sattler, Tommy Bishop, Alan McKean, Ken Arthurson, AM.

By Bob Wonders The third Internationals’ Dinner staged by the Gold Coast Committee has again proven a winner with a glittering line-up of the code’s famous names at the Burleigh Bears Leagues Club at Miami. With former Penrith and Canterbury ace Darryl Brohman doing a superb job as

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May 2013

COMMITTEE NEWS Master of Ceremonies. The attendance comprised current and former Test stars from Australia, New Zealand and England. Gold Coast Titans co-captains Greg Bird and Nate Myles, coach John Cartwright and club officials Chris ‘Choppy’ Close and former Kiwi international Clinton Toopi also attended. Other renowned names included South Sydney greats John Sattler, Mike Cleary, Bobby Honan, Elwyn Walters, Barry Muir, Bob Bugden, Tommy Bishop, Graham Eadie, John Morgan and Ken ‘Arko’ Arthurson, AM. The Big Marn kept things moving along with a swag of humorous interviews on stage backed up by auctions featuring a range of Rugby League icons from various eras. Ian also offered sincere thanks to the Gold Coast Men of League committee, Bob Honan, Greg Sylvester, Tommy Bishop, Graeme Farrar and Alan Law for their efforts.

GYMPIE

By Ross Groundwater Well we are into the New Year and is it going fast. We have a disrupted start to the year with Gympie flooding twice in the space of one month. Once in January and another in February. The committee finally got to meet in March and set a few date claimers for the next few months. We have set Wednesday the 24 April for our first Kick Off Club meeting for the year, which will be held at the Gympie Golf Club on Shield Street at 6.00pm for a 6.30pm start. We will also be holding an AGM AT 6.15pm so if anyone has an interest in nominating for a position please send via email to fionacalvert@hotmail.com prior to the night. Speakers for the night will be Darryl Van Der Velde and Allan Langer. We are in the planning process for a Rugby League reunion in Gympie later in the year, dates will be confirmed once set. Gympie has a long and strong history of Rugby League and there would have been many hundreds of players, officials etc, that have been involved over the years. Obviously people move on and if anyone has been involved in Gympie at any stage for any club, contact Ross Groundwater on 0408 825 466 or rig63@bigpond.com we will update information once we have more sorted out for the event.

ILLAWARRA

By Peter Fitzgerald Illawarra Men of League kicked off their 10th year of activities with a Kick Off Club in March at Mick Cronin’s Gerringong Hotel. With attendance of approximately 90 people, special guests were being interviewed by Hal Browne, the (mighty) Mick Cronin and Alan Fitzgibbon.

Other events coming up are our Bowls Day at Warilla Bowling Club on 19 July. The venue for our Finals Luncheon on Friday 27 September is still TBA. The Illawarra Cutters are again to be coached by Paul McGregor after the fledgling club finished sixth in its inaugural season in 2012. The Cutters played their first competition game against the defending premiers Newtown Jets at Win Stadium on 9 March for the first Tom Kirk Cup. Tom was a record setting and prolific point scoring Rugby League player of the 1930’s, ‘40’s and 50’s.

He won Premierships with Canterbury Bankstown in 1938 and Newtown in 1943. He was renowned leader in the famous Maher Cup competition in the Riverina. From now on NSW Cup games between Newtown and Illawarra will be played for the Tom Kirk Cup. His son Ian Kirk was a long serving Illawarra Rugby League Official and Administrator and is an IDRL and Steelers Life Member.

MACKAY Men of League in Mackay have had a busy time since its inception almost 12 month ago. Under the guidance of former Manly and North Queensland Cowboys enforcer Owen “OJ” Cunningham, the committee has attended functions, made visits and supported locals who have fallen on difficult times.

This year we have held a successful dinner in Sarina and another to support an injured player in Moranbah.

In addition we had representation at a special dinner at Virgin Australia Stadium to recognise the contribution of Australian South Sea Islanders to Rugby League. This was a great event and many old timers turned out for the night, which also included a visit by the Hon Glen Elms Minister Assisting the Premier and Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and Multicultural Affairs.

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May 2013

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COMMITTEE NEWS The Men of League Heritage Week Dinner will feature Broncos CEO Paul White and former NRL player Scott Sattler. Men of League Mackay have been working hard to promote the event and hope to have a full house. An important function is the Benefit Day for former player and coach Greg Fatnowna who is terminally ill. Nearly 300 are attending the luncheon/ auction/ fundraiser afternoon at the Andergrove Tavern. Hosted by Marshall “Jaw” Colwell, and co chaired by Steve “Remember that try “Jackson and Citizen of the Year 2012 and M & DRL and North Queensland Life Member Greg Sutherland it is shaping up as a huge boost to the Fatnowna family.

MELBOURNE

By Jason Fiddes - Treasurer The Men of League Committee in Melbourne were visited recently by Cameron O’Riordan who is the LeagueNet Programs Administrator from the NRL. In a nutshell, Cameron leads the charge on ensuring we have the online tools required to communicate with our membership, in a professional and timely manner.

Over the next few weeks we will be testing our database, updating our records as well as sending messages and updates about upcoming Men of League Melbourne events.

We also have finalised a few of our events for the coming months. June 5 we have State of Origin Evening, Limerick Hotel, South Melbourne. Sunday June 16 AAMI Park - Men’s Health Week Fundraiser. June 26 we have State of Origin Evening, Limerick Hotel, South Melbourne.

And July 17 - State of Origin Evening, Limerick Hotel, South Melbourne.

MID NORTH COAST

By Marshall Loadsman - Committee Member The biggest flood the Forster-Tuncurry area has experienced in over two decades failed to ruin the Men of League annual golf day at Forster Golf Club on Friday 1 March.

Although almost all players arrived back at headquarters a little damp, none regretted the morning of golf which

was won by the team headed by long term sponsor Mick Perry. The Mick Perry Concreting team consisted of Mick, Geoff Boyce, Jason Preston and Men of League legend Noel Kelly. All teams who competed received a trophy as well as a souvenir shirt courtesy of Mick and Darren Towler from Tooheys.

Once again the “Face of Men of League’ Johnny Peard provided part of the afternoon’s entertainment.

Our thanks also go to Doug Keen (a friend of Mick Stone) for conducting a number of interviews including first time attendee Ziggy Niszcott. Special thanks also to our accommodation sponsors, Kelanbri Holiday Apartments and Forster Holiday Village.

Our next official function will be a gala dinner on 29 June at Taree Leagues and Sports Club featuring Wayne Bennett.

NEWCASTLE/HUNTER

By Ross Gigg - Secretary Our annual golf day at Nelson Bay is our first major event for 2013. It will be held on 25 and 26 May. Dinner is held at the Nelson Bay Golf Club on the Saturday night with golf on Sunday. The Nelson Bay boys organised a scrum down day at Dutchies Beach Nelson Bay on the 22 March.

These days are a great way to relax kick back and meet up with some old friends or members of the Rugby League fraternity at a fantastic setting. We will again be holding our fundraising event this year including a bowls day at Nelson bay in September ,a night at the Newcastle trots in late October and a golf day at Cypress Lakes in early December.

NORTH COAST

By Peter Barrett - President Weather permitted after two attempts to have the Bowraville Race Day Luncheon and what a beautiful day and great drinking weather we had. Special guests included Jim Hall and Noel Kelly who are outstanding for Men of League, Merv Hicks, Rob Boland, Dennis Trutty, John Elford, Charlie Haggarth and Ron Pearce.

The luncheon was hosted by John Sullivan and his jokes and introductions got all the attention. Co-host, former

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May 2013

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COMMITTEE NEWS Manly hooker Charlie Haggarth interviews were first class. Again the great man John “Bomber” Peard stole the show with his stories and jokes and had all wanting to talk to him. Thanks to Greg Doolan and his race committee for their hard work and hostility plus their winning tips.

We are looking at holding a Kick Off Club at Macksville, Nambucca Heads, Bellingen, Urunga, Sawtell and Woolgoolga this year, plus stay tuned for more information for a historic Men of League train to leave from Newcastle to the Grafton Cup and Ramonie HCP in July 2014 with accommodation in Coffs Harbour. Mark down Friday 29 November 2013 for our biggest day each year at the Coffs Harbour Race Day lunch with full TAB 9 race program.

NORTH WEST Kevin Robinson - Secretary Our two bowls days held at Narrabri and Gunnedah were very successful and did very well in raising funds for the Men of League. Memorabilia was supplied for a fundraiser for Darren Rickard, who was travelling overseas for treatment for a brain tumour.

President Don Pascoe travelled to Quirindi to catch up with Mick Moylan a good mate, who has not been well, and presented him with a Men of League shirt and cap. Tamworth Men of League Welfare Officer Peter Woolaston visited Jim Crowe not long before Jim sadly passed away. Ken Thompson and I paid a visit to Max Ison and Kevin Smith at Tamworth hospital. Max was Vice-President of West Leagues Club for many years.

Kevin Smith unfortunately has cancer of the spine, but you wouldn’t know it by the smile on his face.

We were saddened to hear of the accidental death of Tony (Scrubber) Smith from Narrabri. When you talk of tough players that played for the Narrabri club, Scrubber would be at the top of the list. Gone but not forgotten.

NORTHERN RIVERS

By Barry Cheadle - Media Officer It’s been a busy start to the year for the Northern Rivers Local Committee.

Among the activities was a Kick Off Club gathering at Kyogle, which was very well attended. Kyogle is an extremely strong Rugby League town, producing NRL players such as Ken Nagas and Nigel Roy. Northern Rivers also hosted the annual greyhound night at Lismore and it was another success.

The next major event for the Northern Rivers Local Committee will be the Sportsman’s Dinner at the East Lismore Bowling Club on July 1. Former Australian, Easts and Manly player Kevin Junee is Secretary-Manager of the club and is organising the event.

If you are interested in attending the night, contact the Bowling Club on (02) 6621 5098 or Northern Rivers Committee President Phil Chesham on 0402 305 498.

QUEENSLAND

By Steve Calder - QLD CEO I would like to thank Bob Hagan for his contribution as a representative for Queensland on the National Board of Directors.

Bob has been relentless in his desire for the Men of League to succeed and expand. My friendship with Bob extends back to 1970, he was a great help then and nothing has changed. Bob will continue as Chairman of the highly successful Sunshine Coast Committee and I wish him well with his health.

The QLD Committee held our first event of the year at the NRL v Indigenous All Stars game at Suncorp Stadium on the February 9. A big thank you to our special guest speakers of the afternoon; NRL All Stars coach Wayne Bennett, Tony Currie, Allan Langer, Petero Civoniceva and ARL Commission Chairman Mr John Grant. The quality of speakers was second to none and it was a great way to start another season of Rugby League.

Friday 22 February saw the formation of the Roma Committee, Owen Lingard elected as the first President.

We are very excited about having a Men of League Committee in this region.

I am very pleased to announce that Samuel Smith & Son (Yalumba) and Lion Nathan will continue their sponsorship for another twelve months. Many thanks to Cameron Wright and Geoff Cockerill.

To all our sponsors and volunteers thank you for the last twelve months, with our amazing growth, we must continue to contribute to ensure this great organisation looks after the Rugby League Community.

RIVERINA

By Ian Lloyd - Secretary Riverina Men of League Annual General Meeting in February saw some fresh new faces added to our Committee. Tom Looney, Dave Barnhill Jnr, Dave Mulrooney and Ian Lloyd remain on the executive for 2013. By the time this news appears we will have run our third Annual Gold Cup Breakfast. This is proving to be a very popular event. Later in the year, October 18 will see the Murrumbidgee Turf Club host a full Men of League Race Day and reunion for former Riverina representative players. Plans for this day are well under way and further details will be provided to members.

Former player and referee Tom Spain and other Cootamundra members were to host a Bowls Day in March, but due to clashes with local Pennant Championships in the area this event has been deferred to later in the year. This will also double as a former Group Nine Players Reunion.

On the 23 March 1963 a brilliant young sportsman, David Wigg, made his first grade debut for Wagga Kangaroos, under the leadership of South Sydney legend Greg Hawick. On the trip home from Batlow, six young Kangaroo’s players were involved in a car accident which claimed David’s life. A close friend of David has made a

May 2013

57

COMMITTEE NEWS substantial donation to Men of League to commemorate the 50th anniversary of this tragedy which cut short a wonderful young man’s life.

ROMA

By Owen Lingard - President The Roma Local Committee of Men of League has been formed with the help of Steve Calder Queensland CEO, Darryl Van De Velde Queensland President, and Andrew OBrien Co coordinator. The office bearers are Owen Lingard President, Brian Jones Vice President, Jason Coonan Treasure, Julie Walton Secretary and the Committee consists of Peter Flynn, Lyle Cherry, Frank Saunders, Steve Outen, Brett Cherry and Doug Sainty.

A fund-raiser race day was held for David Meehan from the Miles Rugby League Club. David’s wife was killed in a car accident and two of their children received horrific injuries which will require many years of rehabilitation.

Items were auctioned former North West representative great Terry Hyland who showed his auctioneering skills raising $4500 for the Meehan family.

Items were donated by Peter Sharpe of Sharpe Engineering, Steve Duff of Duff Builders and the Roma and District Rugby League and a big thank-you to these for their generosity.

The Committee will soon confirm events for 2013 where we hope many of our members can join us.

SOUTH COAST

By Pat Bannon – Treasurer Men of League Member Kevin Hole, former St George player during the 1950’s and Parramatta in the very early sixties has been unwell lately and doing it a little tough.

He is now a resident of Narrawallee on the NSW South Coast. Kevin was of great assistance with the lighting at Bill Andriske Mollymook Oval and the development of the Ulladulla Sports Park. Anyone wishing to contact Kevin should give South Coast Men of League Chairman Tony Hardman a call on 0402 861 964.

SOUTHERN SYDNEY

By Terry Hughes - President Our plans for a function in February were put on hold when the committee made a decision to support the Monty Porter Foundation Luncheon, and was supported

by Men of League members.

The planned luncheon at the Sharks on Thursday 28 March was deferred. It is hoped that this luncheon will be held on the Thursday prior to an annual Sharks v St George Challenge match each year for the Monty Porter Cup, with the Men of League being invited by the Sharks to participate.

A Kick Off Club lunch at J D’s is under consideration, which has tentatively been pencilled in for Sunday 9 June when the Sharks are away to the Storm.

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Discussions are also taking place for another luncheon at Oatley RSL, most likely in August.

Emails will be forwarded to members as we confirm dates and venues for the events being planned.

SUNSHINE COAST

By Tony Durkin - Committee Member Almost $20,000 has been disbursed to various charities following the recent Men of League All Stars match on the Sunshine Coast, attended by NRL luminaries Josh and Brett Morris and Chris Houston. Boasting such names as Allan Langer, Kerrod Walters, Scott Hill, Danny Nutley, Chris Walker, Craig Greenhill, Adam Mogg and Chris Flannery, the All Stars proved too strong for the Caloundra Sharks team, winning 26-18. Although the match was played in pouring rain, a good crowd attended and a very generous gathering attended the post-match gala dinner at Twin Waters. Raffles and auctions on the night contributed greatly to donations subsequently made to the Nicole Fitzsimons Foundation, Give me 5 4 Kids, Wish List, 4ASD Kids, Men of League and the Caloundra Sharks. The All Stars match, first played in 2009, is now an annual event on the Sunshine Coast. Queensland Rugby League Chief Executive Officer Robert Moore and former international Dale Shearer have been popular guests at the first two Kick Off Club events on the Sunshine Coast. These bi-monthly events, held from 5pm to 7pm on the second Thursday of every second month The next Kick Off Club will be held at Mooloolaba Surf Club on June 13. The annual State of Origin Luncheon will be held at the same venue on 4 June.

SYDNEY METRO

By Brad Ryder - Media Officer Our Committee held its fifth luncheon at Souths Juniors where we honoured our indigenous stars both past and present. President Henry Morris welcomed the 450 strong gathering and called upon Tim Gilbert who was our MC for the afternoon.

A special tribute to Kevin Roberts was done on stage

by Police Commissioner Andrew Scipione, in which Kevin’s background as a player, referee and policeman was outlined, receiving the NSW Police Medal for 41 years’ service.

Notable players present included Eric Robinson, Eric Simms, Percy Knight, Clarrie Jeffreys and Bruce Olive.

Video tributes were shown of Arthur Beetson, Kevin Longbottom and current Souths try scoring machine Nathan Merritt who was absent due to Souths commitments. Larry Corowa was not well and sent his apologies.

TOWNSVILLE

By Barry Buchanan - Vice President Our first Kick Off Club was held 7 February at the Riverview Tavern with guest speaker Michael Luck who is now Football Operations Manager at Cowboys, after a

COMMITTEE NEWS very successful playing career with the Auckland Warriors.

Many thanks to the Lilywhite Group and the Great Northern Brewing Company for ensuring everyone had an enjoyable time.

Our $100 Fundraiser was drawn with the major winners of the Cowboys season box being Andrew and Simone Walters of Waltlec Electrical and Air-conditioning.

Congratulations are extended to promoter Barry Peters for a job well done.

On behalf of all Townsville Local Committee members we pass on get well wishes to our ex-committee member Graham Murray and hope by the time this has gone to print he is well on the way back to good health. The same goes for any of our members who are in a similar situation.

Our next Kick Off Club will be held on Friday 21 June at the Townsville RSL commencing at 5.30pm. Put the date in your planners along with Sunday 11 August when we will have a Bowls morning at the Thuringowa Bowls Club/ Kirwan Sports Club. More information will come to you through the usual email and SMS communications. If you are not getting these let me know on 07 4773 7122.

TWEED DISTRICT

By Tom Cassin - Treasurer A pleasing attendance of over 80 people attended the Tweed District’s Annual Sportsmen’s Lunch in February.

MC Neil Pringle was in his usual fine form and his “talks” with champion surfer Wayne “Rabbit” Barthlomew AM, Tim Pickup and former Hockeyroos captain Nikki Hudson were both most entertaining and very informative. Titans Chief Executive Officer David May gave a comprehensive look inside the daily operations of the Titans and outlined their objectives and aspirations for this season and future seasons. Our special guest, Roger Rogerson, took over the microphone for a good 45 minutes and kept everyone enthralled with tales of his past experiences. Times have certainly changed!Thanks to generous sponsors Carlton United, Lion Nathan, De Bortoli Wines and Casella Wines for their contributions, to Anthony McCulloch and his team for the excellent entrees and meal and to Grant Brown and his bar staff for their always great service.

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

By Justin Reid - Secretary Western Australia Men of League are starting off this year’s events with a golf day at Hartfield Country Club in Forrestfield Perth Friday 19 April. Tee off is at 12pm with dinner and presentation beginning at 5pm. With an expected playing group of 70 plus players and guests on this fantastic course, it will guarantee be a great Friday afternoons entertainment. Bookings: sullyspainting@ hotmail. com / 0414 733 083.

The Pilbara road show will be starting up north 11 to 18 May with James “Sully” Sullivan as host. The Pilbara has an abundance of Rugby League fans and players.

With the newly appointed full time NRL development officer Chris Newman, the Road show promises like last year to promote League in the North West with Sully there representing Men of League.

The Rockingham Sharks along with Men of League are hosting an ANZAC luncheon with Special Guest Former Kiwi International Gary ‘Wizz’ Freeman. See WA’s finest Perth v Perth KIWI Go head to head Saturday 27 April –Starting 2.30pm. Tickets $75 each or $750 per table of 10 includes Food, Beer, Wine & Soft drink Bookings Contact: rockinghamsharks@hotmail.com / 0409 795 199.

Full report and photos available on www.menofleague.com

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TF ER AI BT U TR EE S

When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure.

(Author Unknown)

TRIBUTES VALE VIC ANDERSON South Sydney lost a fine man when Vic Anderson passed away aged 91. The friendly and personable outside back played five seasons with South Sydney and another with Eastern Suburbs.

Remembering his playing days, Vic laughed when he told the story of players having a small pouch in their shorts in his time. “They used to put peanuts and sultanas in there and after a big run or some constant defence, they would reach into their ‘undies’ for what they thought was an instant energy boost,” he explained.

VALE KEVIN ASHLEY Rugby League lost a good man when Kevin Ashley passed away, aged 71.

Kevin entered grade football with the Roosters in 1963 and represented City Firsts against Country in 1967. A good all-round sportsman, Kevin also played some junior Aussie Rules for the East Sydney club and top grade water polo with the Bronte Club.

The Men of League offer their deepest sympathies to Kevin’s wife Barbara, his children Nathan and Sarah, along with son-in-law Brett, plus his two much loved grandchildren, Zoe and William.

VALE FERRIS ASHTON One of the game’s greatest and most loved characters, Ferris was a proud war veteran with a courageous heart, a Rugby League player with genuine ball-playing skill. Ferris has given more than 60 years to Rugby League.

In recent years, Ferris had become

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a revered symbol of the war era representing the game during the ANZAC Day ceremonies preceding the annual match between the Roosters and the Dragons.

Ferris Ashton was made a member of the Men of League Honourees at our 2012 Gala Dinner, in tribute to his life-long commitment to the game.

Men of League send our condolences to his family. He is survived by wife Patricia, four children, seven grandchildren and four great grandchildren.

VALE GARY BAKER The Men of League were saddened to hear of the passing of Gary “Bake” Baker in late March, aged 54. Gary was an avid Canterbury Bulldogs supporter. Ross Gigg and John King paid a visit to Gary in late 2012 and was in great spirits despite his illness.

A private family funeral was held, followed by a public ceremony at Speers Point Park that was attended by many of Gary’s family and friends.

VALE KEN BOYD With great sadness, we wish to notify Tweed Men of League members of the passing of Ken Boyd, aged 78 years. After a long hard fight, Ken passed away peacefully at St Vincent’s Hospital Lismore on Friday 15 February.

Ken (or “Horror” as he was known to mates) was widely recognised as one of the best Tweed league products of his generation.

He is survived by his wife Jan,

children Tim, Jason and Nicola, and siblings Barry, Audrey and Betty.

VALE MICHAEL RICHARD CLARKE On 2 December 2012 Rugby League lost another dedicated retired footballer and fan of the Brisbane Broncos. Michael has been a season ticket holder of his beloved Broncos since their inception.

Michael started playing Rugby League which turned into a passion and obsession, not only with the game but Michael would also buy every football jersey and stubbie cooler to match with his collection of football caps.

He is survived by his parents Dawn and Noel, Daughters Danielle and Michelle, Danielle’s Partner Zac, and his son Kevin, grandchildren Harley and Aliyah. He is missed by the football community, friends and loved ones.

VALE GEOFF CONNELL Hard tackling second rower, Geoff Connell passed aged 67.

During his career Geoff played with Belmore, Easts Brisbane and Canterbury, Geoff played in 12 matches for Queensland and one Test match for Australia.

Geoff was a Life Member of the Bulldogs Club and in 2004 he was nominated for the Berries to Bulldogs 70 Year Team of Champions.

The Men of League extend their deepest sympathies to Geoff’s wife Pam. He was a loved father and father-in-law to Paul and Nikki, along

TFREI AB TUUT RE ES with Janine and Mark, while he was a devoted grandfather to Kari-Lee and Lachlan.

VALE JIM CROWE Jim Crowe passed away at the end of November from melanoma. He played with the West Tamworth Robins with whom he won premierships with and then moved onto coaching the Robins lower grades with much success.

He remained involved with the West Tamworth club up until his illness took control. He is probably best summed up by the words of one of his young players that he coached, “Jim was a man of many words and plenty of advice and now it’s all coming true”.

VALE TERRY CROWE It is with a great deal of sadness that we farewell another true West Wyalong Mallee man in Terry Crowe.

Terry lost his battle with cancer on the 14 February aged 58.

He coached the West Wyalong Mallee Men Reserve Grade to five consecutive Grand Finals from 1982 to 1986, winning four of those.

As Ron Pilon said in reflecting on Terry’s life, he may not have been a speed machine or had the finesse of the modern day hooker, but he was tough – a true Mallee Man. Terry will be greatly missed by the West Wyalong and Footy community.

VALE KAREN FOLKES The Rugby League community were stunned and deeply saddened when Karen Folkes passed away on Thursday 28 February, aged just 55. The daughter of the legendary Canterbury CEO, Peter “Bullfrog” Moore OAM and wife of Steve Folkes, Karen was well liked by everyone. She was a personable, intelligent and very friendly lady, who was close to her family and friends.

The Men of League extend their deepest sympathies, to Steve, Daniel and Hayley, along with her eight brothers and sisters, plus her extended family and many friends.

VALE MOSESE FOTUAIKA Born 25 March 1992, passed away

28 February 2013.

The Men of League extends its deepest sympathy to the family of Mosese Fotuaika.

The talented Wests Tigers prop forward passed away at his home.

“This is an absolute tragedy and our heart goes out to Mosese’s family and to his team-mates,” NRL Chief Executive, Mr Dave Smith, said.

The NRL have been in close contact with the club to assist in terms of counselling and support. Mosese was one of nine children and was born in Gisborne, New Zealand.

VALE KEITH HARRIS-WALKER The Men of League were saddened to hear of the passing of Keith HarrisWalker in early February aged 65.

Nicknamed ‘Roady”, Keith started his sporting career as a Derby schoolboy. He later played Rugby League for North Beach.

He was awarded an Australian Sports Medal by Former Prime Minister John Howard in 2000.

Keith changed over to Touch Football where he won a World Championship medal as a player for Australia as well as coaching victorious national teams.

Keith is survived by wife Malola, son, daughter and grandchildren.

VALE JAKE KEDZLIE 15 year old outstanding Sawtell Panther Jake Kedzlie passed away in a tragic Rugby League accident on the field. Jake Represented Group 2, North Coast, NSW Country and was the best and fairest in 2011. Great potential at fullback and five eight and was club captain.

VALE BRADLEY KHEIRALLAH Men of League were saddened by the passing of Bradley Kheirallah on Tuesday 2 April. Bradley was selected in the South Sydney Rabbitohs under 20s squad in 2011, only to be diagnosed with NonHodgkin Lymphoma. In 2012 Men of League assisted Bradley and his mother Nicole with flights and accommodation to Germany for treatments ($10,000) and assisted with memorabilia pieces at the

South’s fundraiser for Bradley with his fight. On behalf of the Rugby League community, Men of League would like to send our condolences to the Kheirallah family.

VALE PRESTON LEARMONTH The Western Australian Men of League would like to extend their condolences to the family of Preston Learmonth, who passed away early March, aged 70.

Preston made an extensive and valued contribution to Rugby League in WA. He was a founding member of the Bunbury based South West Warriors and instrumental to their inclusion into the WARL competition, and was a Committee Member until his passing.

The hard-hitting front row forward is described as a ‘really nice bloke’, and a great supporter of Rugby League in WA, from grassroots to NRL. Preston was a member of the West Coast Pirates and previously the WA Reds.

VALE JOHN LIGHTFOOT The Men of League were saddened to hear of the passing of former 1950’s Newtown player, John Lightfoot in late 2012. John, who was well into his eighties, was a true gentle giant and had a very sharp mind and a great recollection of his playing days in the 50’s and 60’s.

John spent his last years at the St Martin De Porres Hostel Waratah, where he was well looked after and well respected.

VALE MICHAEL LOCKHART The Men of League were saddened to hear of the passing of Michael (Micky) Lockhart in mid-February.

Micky, a Wynnum Manly junior, played second division League for RAAF Williamtown before moving on to Central Charlestown Butcher Boys and later for the Maitland Pumpkin Pickers in the 1970s.

On discharge from the RAAF, Micky had a stint playing in Papua New Guinea before moving back to Wynnum Manly and opening a successful real estate agency with wife Joanne. He was also President

May 2013

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TF ER AI BT U TR EE S of Wynnum Junior Rugby League through the 1980s and 1990s.

VALE DES MCGOVERN Des was an integral part of Toowoomba’s golden era of Rugby League during the 1950s. His career included two Kangaroo tours, seven Test matches and 15 games for Queensland.

He also went on to become one of the Darling Downs best known radio sporting voices during a 36-year working partnership with broadcaster Pat O’Shea.

It was Men of League that filled the void in his life and the visits from the Welfare Officers and his Kick Off club attendances prolonged his life.

He is survived by his children Barbara, Desmond, Margaret and their families.

VALE KEVIN MCKIERNAN The Men of League were saddened to hear of the passing of Kevin “Scratchy” McKiernan in late February. He had a stellar Rugby League career over 15 years and he played against five International touring teams while representing North coast, Great Britain twice, France and New Zealand. He also played against the American All Stars in 1953 when he represented Newcastle. Scratchy won two premierships with Maitland in 1957 and 1958 and also captain-coached Kempsey CYM to victories in 1950, 1951 and 1961.

VALE TOM MCRAE On Australia Day of this year we lost one of our foundation members in Tom McRae after a short battle with cancer.

Tom played for his beloved club, Western Suburbs, in the local Maryborough competition in the early 1960’s and after playing he also became involved in the administration of the club.

Tom was a Life Member of both Western Suburbs and the Maryborough League and will be sadly missed by all who played against and with him as well as those of the football fraternity who came to know him. May he rest in peace.

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VALE NORMAN NEWMAN Sadly Norman Newman of Narromine passed away early March. Norman was a former Group 11 player for many years.

Norman funeral was held at Uniting Church Narromine, attended by his family and friends.

VALE RONALD O’CONNOR The Men of League were saddened to hear of the passing of Ronald “Rocky” O’Connor on the 16 March.

Rocky was 73 and was a resident at Harbourside Haven.

Ron played Rugby League with Karuah, the Wide Bay district and Waratah Mayfield RLFC. He represented Newcastle in the very strong under 20’s Country Championships. Ron was a tough and uncompromising front rower. He played over 100 first grade games with the Waratahs, playing alongside his brother Hilton.

VALE JIM “STREAKY” PEEBLES Jim “Streaky” Peebles , who was one of Manly Warringah Rugby League Football Clubs finest players, Club man and Ambassador for the game of Rugby League, sadly passed away on Saturday 9 February 2013, after suffering a major stroke during the week before.

Jim will be sorely missed by everyone associated with Rugby League and all his mates from those grand old days when he wore the proud colours of the Manly Warringah Rugby League Football Club.

VALE RAY SHEFFIELD Men of League member and former Newtown player Ray Sheffield passed away on the 7 February 2013 at 75 years of age.

Ray played reserve grade for Newtown in the late 1950’s and early 1960’s. He loved his league and followed St George after his beloved Newtown was dropped out of the top level.

Ray is survived by his wife Margaret and family.

VALE DALLAS JAMES TAYLOR The Men of League would like to pass on our condolences to the

family and friends of Dallas James Taylor who passed away peacefully on Wednesday 27 March 2013, aged 31. Dallas played Rugby League as a youngster and played Under 19s representative Rugby League with Cameron Smith and Matt Bowen. He was signed for Super League with the Adelaide Rams and then with the Northern Eagles. He retired from playing in his early 20’s.

Dallas put up a great fight and will be sadly missed by all, but will never be forgotten.

VALE WARREN THOMPSON Warren Thompson was born in Coffs Harbour. He represented North Coast against Great Britain and was regarded as one off the toughest players in the area. 1970 Warren played for South Sydney in President Cup, South Coast and Newcastle and retired back in Coffs Harbour.

VALE BOB TUCKER Sadly one of our members, Robert Henry Tucker, has passed away. Bob was Western Suburbs player No. 519, while No. 520 player was Jack Gibson and No 521. Bill Carson.

His funeral has taken place but details are unknown.

VALE IAN WALSH Ian Walsh had a great Rugby League career. He played 25 Tests, captaining Australia in 10 of these matches. Ian also played 64 matches for Australia, four games with City Firsts against Country and four games for Sydney against international touring teams.

In 1962 he joined St. George for six seasons where they won four Grand Finals. Ian retired after the 1967 season. He coached Parramatta to the 1971 semi-finals and also worked as a Rugby League columnist for more than 20 years with the Daily Telegraph.

Ian had been living back near his home town for the past few years and passed away in a Forbes nursing home.

For the full eulogies dedicated to all these great men & women, please visit www.menofleague.com

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