Men of League - Issue 56

Issue 56 - September 2014

MICHAEL BUETTNER

JOINS OUR TEAM

MINI BROTHERS’ MAXI RECORD WHO ARE THE GREATEST KICKERS

BY LUKE LEWIS’S SIDE

THE BOMBER

IS OFF TO THE U.S.

A SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO ‘MUZ’ HELPING MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE COMMUNITY

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MEN OF LEAGUE SEPTEMBER 2014

IN THIS EDITION 4-5 Minis secure maxi record 8 Parliamentary patron 9 From the CEO 11 Ray Warren 12-13 Band of Bush Brothers 14-15 Bomber off to the USA 18 Gary Larson 20 Almost a French Farce 22-24 Evolution of goalkicking 26 A daughterr’s tribute 27 Michael Buettner 28-29 Osteoarthritis 30-31 Damian Keogh 34-35 NSW Leagues 100 years old 44-45 French league struggles on 48-49 Bob Lanigan PLUS THE REGULARS: 6 Events calendar 16-17 By Your Side: Sonia Lewis 36-39 Tributes 40-43 A Helping Hand 54 Proud of my Dad 55-62 Committee news

EDITOR: Neil Cadigan (editor@menofleague.com) DESIGN: Brilliant Logic PHOTOS: The Foundation thanks News Ltd for supply of photographs ADVERTISING: Brilliant Logic Phone: (02) 4324 6962 www.brilliantlogic.com.au www.menofleague.com

FROM THE

CHAIRMAN

As a former player and a lover of rugby league, the months of September and October are my favourite time of year. Finals football is a chance to enjoy the game played at its toughest by the best players in the world.

Someone once said, “Toughness is in the soul and spirit, not in muscles.” There is no better example of this than Alex McKinnon.

The Men of League Foundation knows all too well how fantastic the rugby league community is at rallying around one of its own who is doing it tough.

I was enormously proud that the entire rugby league community came together to support Alex and the Rise for Alex Round. It is gestures like this, both big and small, which can make a real difference to those who need a hand. We support the efforts of the NRL in helping Alex, whilst at the same time recognising that there are others too who have been injured playing a game they love and it is our mission to reach out to them and their families with support.

Our chief executive officer Corene Strauss will have been with us for not far off twelve months

NATIONAL BOARD Patron: The Hon John Fahey AC Chairman: Ron Coote AM Treasurer: Geoff Thoroughgood Committee: Martin Cook, Mark Gasnier, Ben Ikin, Darryl Van de Velde

EXECUTIVE Chief Executive Officer: Corene Strauss Welfare & Education Manager: Ben Ross Financial Controller: Andrew Gifford Operations Manager: Sandra Hopwood

when you receive this edition.

Under her stewardship, the Men of League has taken giant strides and the board and I are very excited at what 2015 has in store. Ably supported by her team in both the New South Wales and Queensland offices and our marketing and PR arm in Brilliant Logic, she has put together a great team who are effectively and enthusiastically grabbing every opportunity and running with it.

Our committee conference at the Gold Coast provided an opportunity to share our vision for the next five years with our growing army of committee members. The strategies highlighted at the conference served to cement our strategic direction moving forward and to clarify our future plans. With new team members on board to help share the load, I am confident that we are well placed to really kick some goals for our organisation.

To this end, I commend our volunteers on their loyalty, integrity and vital support, which guarantees that the board’s vision for our future has every chance of success. In doing so, those men, women and children who need our support, will find us ready, willing and able.

ceo@menofleague.com ben@menofleague.com andrew@menofleague.com sandra@menofleague.com

Events & Community Engagement Manager: Jason Turik jason@menofleague.com

Membership Officer: Claire White NSW State Manager: Stuart Raper Acting QLD State Manager: Tegan Jennings QLD Events & Operations: Louise Uhl NRL Alumni Manager: Michael Buettner Media, Marketing & Sponsorship: Louise Duff

claire@menofleague.com stuart@menofleague.com tegan@menofleague.com louise@menofleague.com michael@menofleague.com lduff@brilliantlogic.com.au

NSW & CENTRAL OFFICE Level 3, Eastern Grandstand, ANZ Stadium, Sydney Olympic Park NSW 2127 PO Box 7049, Silverwater NSW 2128 Ph: 02 8765 2232 Fax: 02 8765 2808 QLD OFFICE QRL Office, Suncorp Stadium, Castlemaine Street, Milton QLD 4064 PO Box 1217, Milton QLD 4064 Ph: 07 3367 6080 Fax: 07 3367 3464

HELPING MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE COMMUNITY

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Mark (left) and Anthony (right) on the same team as City Origin representatives in 2010. Photo courtesy: DAILY TELEGRAPH.

‘MINI’ BROTHERS HOLD GAME’S ‘MAX’ RECORD Their careers followed different paths and different clubs but Anthony and Mark Minichiello leave the NRL as record-breaking brothers in the game’s century-plus history. BY NEIL CADIGAN

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hey are the brothers with contrasting styles and very different profiles, but Mark and Anthony Minichiello step out of the National Rugby League this year with a joint place in history.

Not only do they carry the most famous Italian name in the game, the brothers, who grew up on acreage in the south-western corner of Sydney, depart with the record of most first grade games by any two brothers in the Australian game’s history.

When Sydney Roosters skipper Anthony led his team out for his 301st NRL appearance for his club in the second week of the finals series, the joint tally of the ‘Minis’ surpassed the 559-game record held by Kevin and Steve Walters.

Mark Minichiello, 32, will leave for a two-year stint with English club Hull with 259 games to his credit while, as we went to press, older sibling Anthony was one match short of the Roosters’ record of 302 matches held by close mate Luke Ricketson.

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MEN OF LEAGUE SEPTEMBER 2014

Yet they played only one NRL match together, Mark’s debut game for the Roosters against Penrith in round 12 of 2002 when he came on as a replacement hooker. The next season he left for South Sydney before becoming a foundation Titan in 2007. They did play twice together for City Origin and for Italy in last year’s World Cup. “That’s certainly one disappointment, that Anthony and I didn’t play more games together, but our careers went in different directions and that’s fine,” said Mark who represented City five years straight from 200711. “We played for City together which was great but representing Italy in the World Cup last year was a real highlight and treasured memory.

“We’re very proud of how long we have been able to play in the NRL and what we achieved. We got to play against each other in the preliminary final in 2010 for a place in the grand final and that was special for the family, but Anthony got through and I have to settle for never making a grand final while he had plenty.”

While the brothers share a close family unit and love of family gathering, normally centred on Italian cooking, they mix in different circles and have different profiles, figuratively and geographically.

Anthony hit the heights of two premierships, six grand finals (2014 season not included) for two victories, 18 Tests for Australia, 11 Origin games. He rose to be not just the best fullback in the world and an automatic selection in the NSW and Australian teams from 200305, he was voted the world’s best player at the end of the 2005 Tri Nations tour to England.

He was also a well-heeled Sydney eastern suburbs party boy early in his career who found love with shoe designer Terry Biviano and contentment with their daughter born in December 2013, Azura. His A-list profile saw a wedding guest list at Sydney’s St Mary’s Cathedral that included Leo Sayer, Jodi Gordon and Braith Anasta, David Gyngell and Leila McKinnon, Kristy Hinze, Andrew Johns, Kate Waterhouse and Ricketson. He was even part of a winning Sydney to Hobart yacht race crew, one of six celebrities on the maxi-yacht Perpetual Loyal in 2012.

Tragically, he was cut down with a serious back injury that threatened his career when in his prime at age 25, destining him to just 33 games in four seasons (200609) and seeing those closest to him willing him to retire and escape the frustration and agony. Fortunately, he refused to give in.

“I never thought of retiring; I always had the desire to come back and thought I could,” Minichiello said of the traumatic time in his life. What helped was his habit of developing core strength he always had since his early years when he was a NSW gymnastics champion, in tumbling and trampolining, until rugby league became his major sport at 16, and he was discovered by Roosters master talent scout Arthur Beetson.

The gymnastics background was a key in his longevity and his pinball style attack which saw him bounce and pivot so naturally off defenders. “Gymnastics gave me that core strength and power base that comes into rugby league,” he once said.

Mark says his brother’s comeback from the debilitating back problems was testament to his pure love of the game and his willpower and resilience. “I don’t think any other player in the game could have come back from what he had to,” says Mark. “I knew what he was going through but he never once considered retiring.

It’s such a great testament to him.

“I’ve been lucky and had no serious injuries and not missed a lot of games but what Anthony endured inspired me to make sure I got the most out of my career.”

Parents Mick and Theresa Minichiello with Mark as he is farewelled by Titans fans after last match for the Gold Coast club in 2014.

Mark was a comparative toiler yet his achievements are also worthy of tremendous recognition. Like his brother, he always carried himself in the right spirit, played with a genuine enthusiasm and love of his sport and just as much aggression as his brother when running the ball, without a hint of over-stepping the mark.

The move to the Gold Coast where he and wife Milena have three little boys – Luca, 3, Leo, 2, and Rocco, 1 – was the making of him and they now leave for the UK for a new challenge with plenty of determination to play more than his three finals matches deep in his heart.

His last match was an unforgettable one. In a Titans season wrecked by injury and a fall from first on the ladder to 14th after just two victories from 15 games as they ran out, Minichiello at the front, for their last match against finals-bound Canterbury, a determined Minichiello try inspired his side back from an 18-0 deficit to a 19-18 victory.

The constant for both Minis has been their passionately supportive parents Mick and Theresa, and sister Michelle, who have missed few games the brothers have played in Sydney, Mick and Theresa often parting ways so one was at one of the boys’ matches. They were at Mark’s farewell game at Cbus Super Stadium on the Gold Coast and all the family were planning to be at Anthony’s – hopefully his lucky seventh grand final at ANZ Stadium.

BROTHERS IN ARMS

Mark (259) and Anthony (301) Minichiello 560 games Kevin (287) and Steve (272) Walters 559 games Steve (272) and Chris (250) Mortimer 522 games All brothers - Kevin, Steve and Kerrod Walters hold the record with 782 ahead of Steve, Chris, Peter and Glenn Mortimer with 741.

HELPING MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE COMMUNITY

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MEN OF LEAGUE EVENTS CALENDAR OCTOBER 01 Oct

National

Gala Dinner

The Star

01 Oct

Canberra Monaro

Grand Final Luncheon

TBC

05 Oct

Melbourne

Grand Final

Limerick Arms Hotel

09 Oct

Sunshine Coast

Kick Off Club

Mooloolaba Surf Club

09 Oct

Far North Coast

PM’S X111 Dinner

Brothers Leagues Club, Cairns

11 Oct

Canberra Monaro

Golf Day

Goulburn Golf Club

11 Oct

South Coast

Nowra Spring Classic Greyhound Meeting

Shoalhaven Greyhound Track

11 Oct

Southern Division

Sportsperson Night

Jandowae

11 Oct

North West NSW

Gala Dinner

Blazers West Leagues Club

12 Oct

Tweed District

Bowls Day

Coolangatta Bowling Club

15 Oct

Brisbane

Kick Off Club

Bronco’s Leagues Club

17 Oct

Illawarra

Kick Off Club

Figtree Bowling Club

18 Oct

Upper Hunter

Bowls Day

Scone RSL

18 Oct

Riverina

Race Day

MTC Wagga

19 Oct

Central West

Ian Walsh Bowls Day

TBC

24 Oct

Bundaberg

Sportsman’s Dinner

Brothers Sports Club

25 Oct

National

Race Day

Rosehill Gardens Racecourse

26 Oct

Fraser Coast

Bowls Day

Doon Villa Bowls Club

31 Oct

Western Region

Golf Day

Dubbo

02 Nov

Far South Coast

Bowls Day

Club Sapphire Merimbula

14 Nov

Southern Division

Kick Off Club

Toowoomba Sports Club

15 Nov

North West NSW

Bowls Day

Narrabri Bowling Club

15 Nov

Canberra Monaro

Lawn Bowls Day

Canberra Bowling Club

21 Nov

Bundaberg

Full Time Club

Salter Oval

28 Nov

Sunshine Coast

Golf Day

Horton Park Golf Club

30 Nov

Southern Division

Sportspersons and Museum Function

Allora

02 Dec

Illawarra

Kick Off Club

Collies Club

05 Dec

North Coast NSW

Race Day

Coffs Harbour

11 Dec

Sunshine Coast

Christmas Luncheon

Mooloolaba Surf Club

14 Dec

Tweed District

Christmas Function

Coolangatta Sands Hotel

17 Dec

Brisbane

Kick Off Club

Bronco’s Leagues Club

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

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MEN OF LEAGUE SEPTEMBER 2014

YOUR MEN OF LEAGUE LOCAL CONTACTS NEW SOUTH WALES CANBERRA MONARO President: Noel Bissett 0407 597 533 Secretary: Susan Gerrard 0406 378 086 CENTRAL COAST President: Don Parish 0414 353 141 Secretary: Trevor Andrews 0412 694 857 CENTRAL WEST President: John Lasker 02 6852 2477 Secretary: Norm Cook 0458 658 827

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 MACARTHUR/STH HIGHLANDS President: Ron McEntee 0448 118 789 Secretary: Stephen Hazelton 0450 010 770

MID NORTH COAST President: Brian Atherton 0427 523 818 Secretary: Kevin Rayment 0427 533 644 MID WEST President: Badger Babbage 0428 164 398 Secretary: Elwyn Lang 0429 721 266

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

GLADSTONE President: Mark Graham 0431 709 476 Secretary: Chris Anderson 0404 543 216

SOUTH COAST President: David Hayward 0405 102 361 Secretary: Ross Collins 0423 853 515

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

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

GOONDIWINDI President: Trevor Brown 07 4671 2882 Secretary: Col Trehearn 0427 712 679

SYDNEY METRO President: Henry Morris 0418 115 706 Secretary: Seamus O'Connell 0411 126 060

GYMPIE President: Ross Groundwater 0408 825 466 Secretary: Greg Pountney 0432 397 974

TWEED DISTRICT President: John Strong 0421 971 586 UPPER HUNTER President: Peter Ford 0421 805 235 Vice President: Peter Collins 0419 763 279

MACKAY President: Owen Cunningham 0407 916 657

ROCKHAMPTON President: Ron Milne Secretary: Dominique McGregor

WESTERN REGION Secretary: Ross Tighe 02 6882 4649 Vice President: Bryson Luff 0438 058 563

ROMA President: Owen Lingard 0400 496 507 Secretary: Julie Walton 0437 721 527

WESTERN SYDNEY President: Steve Winbank Secretary: Garry O'Donnell 0418 699 257

SOUTHERN DIVISION President: Andrew O’Brien 0417 748 489 Secretary: John Dent 0400 046 214

TUGGERAH LAKES President: Denis Smith Secretary: Rod Wicks

SUNSHINE COAST President: Bob Hagan 0419 252 092 Secretary: Ross Meldrum 0418 500 928

QLD AND AFFILIATED STATES

TOWNSVILLE President: Tim Nugent 0419 730 700 Secretary: Terry Feeney 0488 000 899

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

VICTORIA President: Peter Foreman 0439 533 171 Secretary: Greg Brentnall 03 8412 4905

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

NORTHERN TERRITORY President: Dave Cannon 0428 895 211 Secretary: John Barry 0417 732 660

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

WESTERN AUSTRALIA President: James Sullivan 0414 733 083 Secretary: Justin Reid 0488 906 665

FAR NORTH QUEENSLAND President: Paul Fowler 0407 640 533 Secretary: John McAllister 0411 752 391

QLD STATE COMMITTEE Qld State Manager: 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

NEWCASTLE HUNTER President: Garry Leo 0400 421 767 NORTH COAST President: Peter Barrett 0414 227 068 Secretary: Terry Clark NORTH WEST President: Don Pascoe 02 6742 1560 Secretary: Kevin Robinson 02 6760 5067 NORTHERN SYDNEY President: Neil Whittaker 0412 488 037 Secretary: Denis Bendall 0435 057 477 NORTHERN RIVERS Patron: Bob Abbott AM Secretary: Tony Cicchinelli 02 6621 3096 Media Officer: Barry Cheadle 02 6686 2977 NSW POLICE Patron: Andrew Scipione President: Dennis Clifford 0411 266 610

FRASER COAST President: Peter Stephensen 07 4122 2868 Secretary: Bob Wicks 0419 722 746

HELPING MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE COMMUNITY

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ELLIOTT ANNOUNCED AS MEN OF LEAGUE PARLIAMENTARY PATRON

M

ember for Baulkham Hills and Parliamentary Secretary to the Premier David Elliott has been appointed the first ever Parliamentary Patron for the Men of League foundation. Mr Elliott said it was an honour to be asked to help assist in providing for members of the rugby league family who had fallen on tough times.

“Men of League is a widely respected charity,” he said. “Their vision is to be the charity of choice in the rugby league community and the benchmark support organisation in the Australian and global sporting context.

“As a youngster growing up, men like Ron Coote were idolised by my schoolmates, and to now be working with him and Men of League to help the rugby league community is a fantastic opportunity.”

Men of League CEO Corene Strauss said the appointment of Mr Elliott indicated the strengthening of the Men of League brand in the community.

“The first ever appointment of a NSW Parliamentary Patron is a fantastic endorsement of the work and relevance of Men of League,” Ms Strauss said.

“David is a strong supporter of our game and our organisation, is very community minded and well aligned with the values of Men of League.

“David will assist us in forming a strong and valuable partnership with the NSW Parliament in providing for our community.”

Men of League aims to enhance the lives of the men, women and children of the rugby league community by providing essential welfare and social support in a timely, effective and efficient manner.

MEN OF LEAGUE SHOW GRATITUDE TO HARBOURSIDE HAVEN

T

here are people and organisations who, like Men of League, are committed to giving back and supporting those in the community who perhaps need to receive a friendly hand of assistance.

One such organisation is Harbourside Haven – and in August Men of League recognised Rachel Hall, one of the staff, with a $1000 scholarship to be used towards further learning. Rachel will use the grant to undertake her Certificate IV in Front Line Management. This will allow her to hone her skills in leadership and guidance and take responsibility for the effective functioning and performance of the team and its work outcomes.

Operating out of Port Stephens for the last 25 years Harbourside Haven provides care and accommodation for the elderly veterans. Over this time they have grown considerably and have become renowned for the quality of care and service proffered to residents.

Men of League has had close ties with Harbourside Haven for more than five years, having forged a partnership with Men of League founder Jim Hall in

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MEN OF LEAGUE SEPTEMBER 2014

2009. Harbouride Haven has since been generous enough to set aside five rooms for our members who are in need of long term accommodation.

Men of League CEO, Corene Strauss, Welfare Manager, Ben Ross and NSW State Manager, Stuart Raper visited Harbourside Haven to see the facilities and present Rachel Hall with her scholarship.

MESSAGE

W

FROM THE CEO

ith the pinnacle event of the rugby league season just around the corner, the team at Men of League are winding up rather than winding down. Our flagship events - the gala dinner in New South Wales and the luncheon in Queensland - are the most significant in our corporate fundraising calendar, closely followed by our Cox Plate race day. If you have not had an opportunity to join some of rugby league’s biggest names at these signature events, I encourage you to join us and celebrate all that is great about our game and the people who play, support and sustain it.

It was fantastic to meet so many committee members at our Men of League conference on the Gold Coast.

The two-day event provided a unique opportunity not only to meet those who work so hard on our volunteer committees but for members to find out how they can access some of the new resources they have available to them to support their efforts. As a result, I have really been buoyed by the stream of marketing and PR materials now supporting events for the 41 committees

around the country. They reinforce our brand and promote our work to the wider community. A big thank you to our marketing agency Brilliant Logic.

I warmly welcome on behalf of the board, Michael Buettner our new alumni manager, who will be working with players as they transition from their professional careers in the NRL to retirement, and Louise Uhl who is working with Steve and Tegan in our Queensland office.

Revenue through continuous growth in membership, coupled with the funds raised via hundreds of events carried out by hardworking committee members, is the lifeblood of our organisation. The welfare we provide is only possible if we can continue to provide avenues for those who love rugby league to support us.

Our organisation is unique in the world. Other codes are endeavouring to copy our model, not just in Australia, but overseas and to this end we are indebted to you who have joined our growing membership, attended an event, given your time and energy or thrown a few bucks in a bucket for one of our collectors.

The rugby league community is a family and I thank you for being part of our extended family and keeping the true spirit of the game alive.

Char Grill & Terrace Bar PRIME STEAKS & SEAFOOD

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HELPING MEN, WOMEN ANDphone CHILDREN(07) IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE COMMUNITY www.caxton.com.au I For all your function enquiries please 3369 5544

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MEN OF LEAGUE SEPTEMBER 2014

RAY’S WRAP

The voice of the game and league’s greatest TV broadcaster Ray Warren

CROWDS ARE STILL WATCHING... AT HOME

R

ugby league has a few concerns at the moment, or is that an understatement?

However, the amazing thing about our game is that despite the troubles and the critics it attracts it still seems to survive.

One of the major talking points centres on crowds and the poor attendance at most games. This never ceases to amaze me as you simply can’t have wall to wall TV coverage and not expect to lose numbers through the gates.

So let’s examine that.

Take the game off TV and where do the replacement dollars come from that the game depends on for survival in this day and age? Remember players are not amateurs they are pros and they expect to be paid a reasonable wage seeing that their entire week is devoted to preparation for the next game.

These blokes are not butchers and bakers who go to training on Tuesday and Thursday then retire to the pub for four or five schooners like the old days; they are full-time professionals and are entitled to good wages. But where does that income come from without the league’s major income from television?

So the fact is we are stuck with dependence on TV income and the telecasters want to get their dollars back for what they pay to put most of our footy in prime time which means we play mainly night footy.

That then presents another problem. What do you think most people would rather do? Go out on a wintery night and take the family, desperately try to find a park for the car and, with admission charges and some food, they could part with perhaps the best part of $150.

Sydney is proving itself not to be the safest place to take mum and the kids out at night anyway. So when the game is over and they have to get back to the car,

they can’t have a drink or they might get picked up on the way home by the blue lights.

So I ask the question again: what do you think ‘Joe Average’ will do given the above drawbacks. My guess is that most will opt to stay home and watch it on TV even if that means putting up with the likes of me.

You see there is no solution, not while we play so much footy at night in winter and the coverage is blanket wall to wall.

Some critics will have you believe the game’s audience is down and there is good reason to think that is the case some of the time. But empty grandstands don’t mean that less people are watching. Do you think the telecasters would keep paying the millions they pay to buy a product that no one is watching?

Horse racing is a perfect example of the points I am making and they race mainly in day time. Take the average meeting where you could fire a cannon through the track and not hit anyone. Do you think though, because of that, the attraction is down? The answer is NO. People still flock to the big events like the spring carnivals but they are happier to watch it on TV at home or the club for all the obvious reasons.

And while on the subject of racing, if the interest level is down how come there are nearly as many betting agencies out there in the market place as there are people at the track?

One of the other problems is the changing face of rugby league with people suggesting we will be playing in tunics shortly. Sounds tough to say that, doesn’t it, but really can you blame an administration that is trying to be responsible and make the game safer as litigation warnings are flaring up all over the world in body - contact sport.

That’s a subject for another edition.

In the meantime... enjoy the finals.

HELPING MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE COMMUNITY

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1974’S BAND OF

BUSH BROTHERS

It is 40 years since the Amco Cup became a weekly part of our footballing lives and a bunch of bushies entered folklore against massive odds. The tale is now subject of a book. BY IAN HEADS

T

he Western Division heroes of 1974 are scattered like leaves across the NSW countryside these days. But 40 years on, the remaining members of the ‘band of brothers’ who brought off the greatest underdog achievement in the game’s history remain bound tightly together as if by an invisible thread.

Even after all these years, their time is still remembered now and then — at gatherings at which those who know pause to reflect … and to raise a glass to the great fairytale of the winter of ’74. Now is one of those times.

People of a certain generation remember them well — recalling their leader, the firebrand coach Johnny King, barking at his team of tough bushies and how, against all odds, they secured a piece of league history by stealing away the game’s first ever competition played under lights. To younger generations in a now-focused world, the story is almost certainly lost in the mists of time. But it is worth recalling to any age group, as an inspirational saga that proves anything is possible.

Briefly, it is the seriously unlikely story of how these westerners, who would have been 1000–1 outsiders if the bookies had been betting on such events back then, defied logic, the odds and belief itself by knocking over the city slickers (plus an Auckland team laced with internationals) to win the glittering prize, the first Amco Cup, plus $16,000 prizemoney. For good measure along the way of that magic season, they took a classy Great Britain side almost to the wire, faltering only when two of their key men were sent off in dubious circumstances. Ace rugby league scribe E.E. ‘Ernie’ Christensen called that brutal battle at Orange’s Wade Park the “dirtiest” game he ever saw.

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MEN OF LEAGUE SEPTEMBER 2014

During that wet yet wondrous season, the Western Division side managed to produce an unlikely hero of near-Hollywood appeal. Bald-headed Ted Ellery, aka ‘Mad Dog’, ‘Foreman Material’ and `The Bald Eagle’— but, especially, just ‘TV Ted’— emerged as the star of the show. Ted, from Lithgow way, was used mainly as a replacement shock-trooper, bursting onto the field at key moments, with the Leichhardt Oval lights dazzling off his bald pate.

Ted was tough and he was quick. Today, any mention of Western Division and the first Amco Cup brings an almost guaranteed reply: “Ah, yeah, I remember that bald-headed bloke!” The late Ted Ellery was the headliner, for sure, but the team contained tough, capable players across the board and spawned a champion in blockbusting winger Terry Fahey, who went on to play for Australia plus a dozen seasons in the Sydney-based premiership.

In all its disparate components, it is such a story … one that had dwelt somewhere down deep in my mind for 40 years.

I was chief rugby league writer for the Daily Telegraph and Sunday Telegraph in 1974. The fledgling Amco Cup, inspired creation of Sydney entrepreneur Colin McLennan, was played on Wednesday nights, and for much of its life, stretching many seasons, was called

by Ray ‘Rabbits’ Warren. Back at the start, Wednesday happened to be my night off at the ‘Tele’.

Apart from the Great Britain game in Orange — which was played in the mid-period of the Cup and which I attended — I did my watching from the lounge at home, increasingly cheering for the bushies as they made their magical progress towards the final. The

Captains in the final Paul Dowling and Mike Stephenson.

The Western Division heroes of 1974.

knocked out Auckland 13–7; Canterbury, bound for the grand final that year, 12–10; and defending premiers Manly on a penalty countback, after the scores finished 12–12 on a frozen day in Orange.

By the night of the Cup final, against Penrith, with 20,000 packed into Leichhardt Oval and a vast TV audience watching, it seemed as if the whole world was on the side of the Western Division skipper Paul Dowling and his team. When the men in green and white duly produced brick-wall defence and beat the Panthers 6–2, love was in the air, for sure, and the city cheered along with the country.

Just before Christmas 2013, with the 40th anniversary of the first Amco Cup looming large, I decided I’d have a crack at revisiting the places and the people and, especially, the players who had been centre stage in 1974. I knew there was a great story in the saga of those weeks. Expert sports historian, author and editor Geoff Armstrong linked up with the project and away we went.

There followed fascinating weeks and months, visiting and talking to those who had been part of the year. The travel required reached deep into the beautiful expanses of the west; after all, the teams of ’74 was drawn from a swathe of territory that stretches from Lithgow to Cobar, some 550 kilometres. The result of all the talking and listening and all the travel was, eventually, a book - The Night the Music Died: How a Bunch of Bushies Forged Rugby League’s Last Great Fairytale - which was officially launched on August 21, precisely 40 years to the day from when Western Division beat the Panthers to win the first Amco Cup.

For a veteran author and league writer the exercise was both an education and a great enjoyment. In the stories shared so generously by the players (18 out of 24 of them still going strong from those who played across that season) and many others, a robust and colourful portrait emerged. Meeting and getting to know the players, I came to like them greatly, to admire them and, even more, to realise and appreciate how strongly this shared experience of all those years ago had brought them together.

Ultimately, I came to realise that there existed something close to a spirituality about this vastly diverse group of working-class blokes, a quality that is deeply touching, considering the ‘mix’ they are — white and indigenous players, “black fellas and white fellas … all together”, as one of them said to me.

Western Division truly won against all odds back in 1974. They were such a knockabout bunch of a team, including miners, timber cutters, a slaughterman, a market gardener, a policeman, a greyhound trainer, a plumber, a brickie and a schoolboy. Their training was limited essentially to the day before the match, in Sydney, so widely were the players scattered across the west. But, somehow, they triumphed and in the current era the legend of the year lives on.

In recent seasons, junior teams from the west have been known to use the rallying cry ‘Seventy-Four!’ when under pressure.

May the spirit of ’74 live on!

Turn to page 15 to find out how to order a book, with proceeds going to Men of League.

HELPING MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE COMMUNITY

13

BOMBER OFF TO THE USA John Peard, a classy player nicknamed ‘the Bomber’ for his towering kicks.

Suffering a stroke hasn’t stopped John lifting others with his humour & compassion. Now many have rallied to help him. BY TRACIE EDMONDSON

John Peard in his heyday with the Roosters. Photo courtesy: DAILY TELEGRAPH.

L

eague legend John ‘Bomber’ Peard will undergo revolutionary stroke recovery treatment in the United States later this year, thanks to the Men of League Foundation and the generosity of more than 420 people who attended a benefit night in his honour at Sharkies Leagues Club in September.

The target of $25,000 for the treatment which recently featured on the 60 Minutes program was exceeded on the night, which featured Ray Hadley as MC, entertainment by Shannon Noll with support from Stuart Raper’s Shake n Bake band and auctions and raffles of outstanding memorabilia and other items.

Peard, 69, was an Australian and NSW representative five-eighth, who played for Eastern Suburbs, St George and Parramatta in the 1960s and 1970s.

But the man who earned his nickname from his revolutionary towering punt kick, popularly referred to as a bomb, which terrorised opposition players, suffered a severe and life-threatening stroke in 2002, and despite fighting back to regain his health, he still has little movement down one side of his body.

This means he struggles to walk and many of the simple things in life are difficult and strenuous … like holding his toothbrush to clean his teeth.

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MEN OF LEAGUE SEPTEMBER 2014

“The treatment ... I am cautiously optimistic (about it),” Peard told guests at his benefit night at Sharkies as he recounted memories of his first grade debut for Eastern Suburbs 48 years ago in 1966 with a wit which matched his sharpness on the field in his playing days.

“If I can get a little bit of use in my left hand and my left eye it will be a relief (for me) ... and for the five people a week I run over in my wheelchair.”

Peard said he had always loved footy and used to watch the likes of Noel Kelly through the picket fence in the match of the day at the SCG when he was a young boy growing up in the Eastern Suburbs.

“I used to say I was going to be out here one day and my mates told me ‘don’t be silly, you’re too small’,” he said.

“So I went to a gym and I built up. Then I went to an athletic coach, Mike Agostini, a former Trinidad sprinter in the Olympics in 1956, who qualified in the 100 yards final.

“I rang him up before my first first grade game when I was picked on the wing to play against St George.

“I said ‘Mike, John Peard here. I’m Easts new winger. I’d

like to join your running squad’. He said ‘oh, you want to get faster by next season?’ I said ‘no, by Sunday’.”

Peard admitted it was a challenging introduction to first grade: “The coach said we’ll put you on the right wing - you’ll only have to mark Johnny King. He was the current Australian left winger and the season’s second leading try-scorer.

“I could have popped to the other wing and marked Eddie Lumsden, the current Australian right winger and the season’s leading try-scorer.”

Undoubtedly the same determination and attitude that saw Peard succeed on the field, no matter what the obstacle in front of him, will help Peard in his next challenge off the field when he heads to the US. Peard, who went on to coach Penrith and NSW in State of Origin, has lit up the world of many despite his struggles of recent years and is a prolific visitor of Men of League members with other welfare officers and sought after speaker and those who attended the night were delighted to give back to a man who gives so much.

*Men Of League Foundation and John Peard thank the following for contributing to the success of the benefit night: Glenn Gorrick – event committee; Ray Hadley – MC; Steve Edge, John Mayes and Geoff Gerard – panel members; Shannon Noll and Shake n Bake – entertainment; Denis Stapleton and the Southern Sydney committee; and Sharks Leagues Club.

EXCLUSIVE BOOK OFFER

THE NIGHT THE MUSIC DIED

BY IAN HEADS

$29

95

(INCLUDING FREE POSTAGE FOR MEN OF LEAGUE MEMBERS)*

$5 FROM EACH BOOK SOLD WILL GO TO THE MEN OF LEAGUE FOUNDATION

*Price is per book. Free postage for MOL members applies regardless of number of books ordered.

Postage for non-members is $10 anywhere in Australia, again regardless of number of books ordered, provided books are being shipped to one address. If books are being shipped to more than one address, postage is $10 per address. Overseas buyers should contact Stoke Hill Press for postage rates.

ORDERING INSTRUCTIONS By email: send orders to garmstrong@bigpond.com By post: to Stoke Hill Press, 122 Wellbank Street, Concord NSW Australia 2137 When ordering, please provide the following information:

Name:...........................................................................................................................Phone:.......................................................

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PAYMENT BY CHEQUE: Please make cheque payable to ‘Stoke Hill Press’ For further information, please call Geoff Armstrong at Stoke Hill Press on (02) 9763 7701 or 0413 532 623

HELPING MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE COMMUNITY

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A BOND SOLID AS A ROCK Sonia Lewis, the wife of NSW, Sharks and touring Kangaroos utility Luke Lewis, gives an insight into life as a partner of a professional NRL player.

As part of our regular BY YOUR SIDE series. BY TRACIE EDMONDSON

T

o say Sonia Lewis is Luke’s rock is an understatement. Ayres Rock would be more appropriate given the magnitude of what the couple has endured over the past two years … and yet still maintain a warm and positive attitude that is infectious to those around them.

“With every hurdle that we have had to overcome in the last couple of years, it has made us stronger as a couple,” Sonia said. “It’s been a tough year … but there is always someone worse off.”

knowledge) was media and public speculation about which club he would go to in 2013 after Penrith released him and why he wasn’t playing.

The couple were born and raised in Blacktown and have been together 11 years. Luke had no intention of ever leaving the area or his beloved Panthers.

“It was actually quite hard at the time … you would hear and read so many things like he had a sore neck from looking at real estate at Cronulla,” she said.

Sonia’s father Nick died of a heart attack on the eve of Origin I while Luke was away in Brisbane preparing for the match; and she also had a cancer scare with a melanoma diagnosis.

“That’s what hurt the most. Given he had wanted to play his entire career at the club that had been part of his life since he was a child and his mum and family had supported it even before he was born.

Meanwhile Luke made a comeback from a shoulder reconstruction suffered in the 2013 World Cup only to see the club he joined last year continue to be embroiled in ASADA dramas and finish the season with the wooden spoon.

“With that and the health issues, that was the lowest point.”

All that off the back of the events of 2012 during which Luke underwent radiation treatment for thyroid cancer, soon after he was dropped as Panthers skipper with two years of his contract remaining.

“When Luke was diagnosed with thyroid cancer I needed to be strong for him and not show how I was really feeling,” Sonia said.

“I had to put on a front and not cry all the time. It was pretty difficult. Just even sitting in the doctor’s surgery hearing the treatment he had to have.

“My uncle died of pancreatic cancer five years ago. It was misdiagnosed and he passed away two months after they diagnosed it. We were very close; he was like a second father.

“I drew strength from that … knowing how lucky Luke was that the worst possible outcome was to have his thyroid removed and be on medication for the rest of his life. I took a positive out of that.”

Sonia said what was most difficult at the time Luke was going through treatment (which was not public 16

MEN OF LEAGUE SEPTEMBER 2014

Sonia said Luke’s decision to move to the Sharks ahead of all the other club offers he received was his own. They have no regrets about the move to Cronulla, where they had held their wedding in January 2011.

“I was there to lend an ear but it was his career and his decision to go where he feels comfortable going,” she said. “Honestly he really did wake me up in the middle of the night and said ‘I have to go to the Sharks’.”

“Yes it has been hard, even for those of us not involved in the ASADA matter, but we have no regrets at all or wish that we had gone somewhere else,” she said.

“It has been a bit stressful but nobody really talks about it. Luke and I don’t even talk about it but the guys know we are here to support them.”

Sonia says one of the great things about rugby league is that it brings different people together and through the game she has developed some lifelong friends, like Storm star Billy Slater’s wife Nicole, who lives in Melbourne.

While Luke and Billy have never played together at club level and are arch enemies during Origin, they have toured together with the Kangaroos.

“And (Blues coach) Laurie Daley … I will never forget the things he did for me. He was Luke’s coach and employer, not mine, but he looked out for us and asked after me.

“I didn’t expect that. And on the night of the game … when Luke runs out on the field he always finds us and waves. When he did and pointed to his arm (black band) and I saw the whole team wearing them … the waterworks started.”

For the daughter of an Italian immigrant who grew up thinking football was the game played with a round ball and admits she still doesn’t really understand the rules of rugby league, she appreciates how tough it is and how short it is as a career.

She said Luke hopes to keep playing until he is 34 or older (he is 31), depending on how his body copes, and is keen to be involved in the game when he retires.

But they are also putting their energies into life outside of football and are set to launch a business early next year which they hope will rival sleepwear giant Peter Alexander with a line of loungewear or “PJs you can wear to the shop”.

Photo courtesy DAILY TELEGRAPH

The support network that comes with being part of the rugby league family was never more evident to Sonia than when her father died before Origin I. “It was very difficult not having Luke there when it happened, but him and my family are very close and I was lucky to have them there for support,” she said.

“It was quite overwhelming … the cards and flowers we received from so many people in the rugby league community.

And in a true measure of what a special couple they are, while overcoming their own personal hurdles Sonia and Luke have sought out charities they want to support as ambassadors.

Together they help raise funds and awareness for breast cancer nurses in the community with the McGrath Foundation; and most recently they have become ambassadors for Zambi Wildlife Retreat in western Sydney, which gives homes and care to abused animals.

Luke is also an ambassador for White Ribbon, which works to prevent violence against women and children.

HELPING MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE COMMUNITY

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LARSON CALLS ON MEN TO BECOME ‘REAL MEN’

BY TONY DURKIN

A

s guest speaker at a recent Men of Legaue luncheon on the Sunshine Coast, former Origin great Gary Larson called on men to become ‘real men’ and check if they have prostate issues.

Larson, who held the record for most successive State of Origin games until Johnathan Thurston played his 28th in the series just completed, was one of the special guests at the Sunshine Coast’s annual Origin luncheon at Mooloolaba Surf Club alongside former NSW centre Michael O’Connor and comedy impressionist Danny McMaster.

Gary Larson (right) with guests Michael O’Connor and Danny McMaster, and Sunshine Coast committee president Bob Hagan

During a catch-up telephone call with good mate Billy Moore, to inform him he had been diagnosed, his exMaroons and Bears team mate suggested he make contact with Men of League.

And as a recent prostate cancer victim, tough-asteak Larson admitted to the crowd of 200 that he was ‘scared’ when told he had cancer.

“The Men of League magazine had just published an article on prostate cancer, written by psychologist Suzanne Chambers who had done research on men with the prostate disease,” Larson told the Sunshine Coast gathering.

“The thing about cancer, and in my case prostate cancer, is that there is no discrimination. It doesn’t care how many Origin games I played, how fit I was or how old I am,” he said.

“For her book ‘Facing the Tiger’ she had researched how men and their partners had managed their lives after being diagnosed, in recovery after surgery and their bodies following the removal of the prostate.

“That’s why every one of you guys here today needs to man up and have a blood test. It can never be too early, but it sure can be too late.”

“I then talked to people about how they managed being told of their diagnosis, what treatments they endured, what the side effects were with the surgical removal of prostate and the external radiotherapy. Or there was the old ‘wait and see option’.”

Larson admitted he was like most blokes and thought cancer would not find him, but as was the case with his meticulous training regimen as a player he decided at a young age that he would have regular blood tests.

“I had no family history, but when I turned 45 I decided I would start having systematic health checks because I wanted to live to be a ripe old age, to enjoy my life and my family,” he said.

“Out of the blue, at my third yearly regular checkup, my PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen) count had suddenly doubled. A subsequent biopsy confirmed the worst – I had early stage prostate cancer.

“And yes, I was scared. I was scared for myself, scared for my wife and scared for my kids. I was very confused about my future for a number of various reasons.”

But the former North Sydney Bears forward discussed the many variants with his wife Kate, including their intimate relationship, and they agreed surgery – and the removal of his prostate – was the only option. The surgical procedure occurred in September 2013 and six-monthly checks have followed.

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MEN OF LEAGUE SEPTEMBER 2014

Because the cancer was in the early stages and not aggressive, and it was localised in the prostate, Larson chose the removal of the prostate. And, in a blunt summation which impressed all in attendance, he related how he now lives with ‘a few minor issues’ that he says are improving every week.

“I now have at least 50 per cent erectile function, but can’t hold an erection for longer than 30 seconds; I cannot ejaculate; and I have about 95 per cent control over my bladder,” he said.

“My fitness is back to where it was prior to surgery and although I have some irregular body functions, I’m still here, I’m still working and I’m getting on with my life.”

The 250-game NRL star remains upbeat about his condition and is keen to discuss his experience with anyone who will listen. And he says the most positive outcome is that men his age are being convinced to have tests.

“And they like the fact the blood test is free,” he joked.

HELPING MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE COMMUNITY

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ALMOST A FRENCH FARCE

BY STEVE RICKETTS back play; future Origin star Terry Cook head butted in a play-the-ball incident and prop Rion Pearce hit in the side by a flying drop kick from a Frenchman. The chief Rousillon provocateur was Test hooker Mathieu Khedimi, a player of Moroccan descent who played with the aggression of a young Mario Fenech.

Away from football the players enjoyed a broad taste of French culture, culminating in three days in Paris at the end of the tour.

At Montpellier they attended a French version of the running of the bulls, and forward Steve Bella, a brother of Test prop Martin Bella, stunned the locals by grabbing one beast by the horns and wrestling it to the ground.

I

t is 25 years since the Queensland Residents tour of France in 1989 almost came to a crashing halt literally - after just one game.

On the trip back to their Toulouse base after a first-up 42-8 win over Aquataine Province at Villeneuve-surLot, the players’ lives were placed in jeopardy by the drunk at the wheel of the team bus.

Several times players had to grab the steering wheel to stop the bus veering to the wrong side of the motorway as the driver lapsed in and out of consciousness.

The driver, who did not speak English, kept splashing his face to stay awake after one too many red wines with a few rugby union mates at the meal stop on the way home.What should have been a two-hour journey took six hours, with a 90-minute stop for dinner, as the driver took several wrong turns.

The players showed remarkable restraint not to mete out their own justice when they finally arrived at their hotel. Needless to say they found a new driver for the remainder of the tour, and the trauma of the night did not affect their performances as they went on to beat L’Aude Province 32-4 in Carcassonne; Rousillon 22-10 in Perpignan and Cote D’Azur 30-2 at Carpentras.

The tour was an incentive put up by the QRL, with the advent of the Brisbane Broncos and Gold Coast clubs taking much of the focus away from domestic football.

The match against Rousillon was the toughest by far, with halfback Kevin Langer knocked unconscious in

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Leading points-scorer on tour was policeman Guy Harvey from the Norths club who bagged 40 from three games. Valleys’ winger, Shane Buckley scored four tries against Cote D’Azur.

The full touring squad was: Bill Holmes (c), Tony Catton, Shane Buckley, David Bourke (Valleys); Darren Wolens, Sam Smith, Ray Ovens, Craig Spark, Steve Parcell (Ipswich); Steve Bella (Sarina), Terry Cook (Gatton), Guy Harvey (Brisbane Norths), Bill Johnson (Toowoomba), Mick Kings (St George), Kevin Langer (Brisbane Wests), Ron Pearce (Chinchilla), Shawn Rubesaame (Maryborough), Ken Robertson (Brisbane Souths), Frank Rolls (Blackwater), Chris Hastings (Brisbane Easts).

The coach was former Queensland Country representative, Greg Reynolds from Blackwater, who named Robertson his player of the tour.The support staff consisted of manager Ted Weber (Maryborough), medical officer Dr Keith Woodhead (Brisbane), trainer Russell Ashdown (Caloundra) and liaison officer Hubie Abbott from Brisbane, a former player with French club Albi.

Footnote: During a motorway pit stop the players telephoned Australia to get the result of the grand final between Balmain and Canberra only to be told the match had gone into extra-time. These were the days before mobile phones, so the Queenslanders had to wait until the next stop, an hour later, to get the final score. Canberra’s win was well received, given the strong Queensland flavour in the Raiders’ squad.

Steve Ricketts, who covered Queensland’s tour for The Courier-Mail, returned to France recently and saw a declining game (pages 44-45).

MY DAY WITH THE IMMORTALS

BY BEN ROSS, WELFARE AND EDUCATION MANAGER

Photo courtesy DAILY TELEGRAPH

T

hese guys had finished their distinguished careers long before I was born but the names John ‘Chook’ Raper and Graeme ‘Changa’ Langlands are names I have heard repeatedly as a child and in my professional football career.

My father and grandfathers would talk about how amazing these two were - Johnny’s performance in the second Test against Great Britain on the 196364 Kangaroo tour was the greatest 80 minutes of football by any player, and Graeme was the greatest competitor of his era knowing no fear and using his trademark sidestep enthralling the league crowds.

St George Dragons was my first professional club and both men were not far off officials’ thoughts and were regularly spoken about in team speeches. Chook’s efforts for St George during the 1960s was simply inspirational and marked him as the complete team player, something we all wanted to achieve in our football careers.

Being given the chance to sit down and have a chat with both men was something I never imagined would

ever happen. These gents spoke of the tours they had been on like it was yesterday. They spoke about the way training is so different these days compared to back then, when having a job and then heading to training afterwards was just “normal” and everyone did it.

The battles, the different countries, cultures, snow and of course the beers. To be sitting alongside these men was not only inspiring but a realisation that they are real people living their lives, facing the same problems we all do.

A few hours had passed before we knew it and I had to be on my way. I know I will get my chance to listen to their stories again soon as they are great participants in our Men of League events and luncheons. If you too would like to hear these stories then make sure you don’t miss your next local committee event as they may be there as well as other rugby league legends!

The tag of Immortal continues to be a highly respected one for any player to obtain and is met with much public respect and admiration for these players.

HELPING MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE COMMUNITY

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TODAY’S KICKERS BETTER ...BUT SHOULD BE TOO Are goalkickers of today in the NRL better than the leather ball legends of the past? Statistics say so – by a long way – however conditions and other factors are very much their way. BY DAVID MIDDLETON

T

here is little question that the quality of rugby league’s goalkickers is improving with every season. We loved Keith ‘Golden Boots’ Barnes and Eric Simms in the 1960s and we idolised Mick Cronin and Graham Eadie in the 1970s and 1980s before Daryl Halligan, Matthew Ridge and Jason Taylor ushered in a new era of “super” goalkickers in the 1990s.

But the figures don’t lie. Kickers of the olden days can’t hold a candle to today’s sharpshooters. However, today’s kickers have never had it so good. Here are 10 reasons why.

GROUND DRAINAGE

Pardon the pun but 1989 was a watershed year for rugby league’s goalkickers. A ‘La Nina’ rainfall pattern dumped vast quantities of precipitation across the east coast of Australia, rendering playing grounds from Lang Park to Wollongong sodden, waterlogged quagmires. Some grounds were unplayable, forcing the NSWRL to postpone fixtures or transfer them to drier venues.

For television networks who were forking out millions of dollars in rights and large sums to mount outside broadcasts, the prospect of matches being rescheduled left them incensed. The solution came via technology. Venue curators organised the installation of agricultural pipes to carry away excess water and ensure ground surfaces were unaffected by the heaviest downpours. It was the end of the quagmire and the sight of “muddied oafs” was consigned to history. For a goalkicker it was a boon. No longer were they forced to step through muddy gluepots or puddles of water as they addressed the ball.

SYNTHETIC BALLS

For more than 75 years goalkickers greeted wet weather with dread. Apart from the treacherous playing surface, it also meant they would be forced to deal with an increasingly heavy ball.

The leather skin of the ball absorbed water, making it a nightmare for the kicker. Again, technology benefits the modern kicker. First wet-weather footballs were used

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Hazem El Masri – one of the game’s best but rated third behind current players Adam Reynolds and Michael Gordon on percentages.

when required but after the big wet of 1989, the decision was made to use synthetic balls on a full-time basis. It gave the goalkicker a consistent object to kick and not only was the synthetic product more aerodynamic, it was reliable in all circumstances.

BOOTS

It wasn’t quite a case of one size fits all, but the game’s earliest goalkickers didn’t have too many options when it came to football boots. For most, it was an anklehugging pair of Dally Ms with a steel toe-cap or nothing.

It wasn’t until the 1970s that boot manufacturers such as adidas began to make cut-down boots and rival bootmakers offered different styles that allowed kickers to choose the boot that best suited their style.

PROFESSIONALISM

Full-time professionalism offers today’s kickers an obvious advantage over their predecessors. In the old days, a handful of attempts when training was over for the night was the extent of many kickers’ preparations for their weekend game. These days kickers, such as Cronulla’s Michael Gordon, rarely go a day without an extended practice session.

COACHING

divot in the turf and placed the ball on the disturbed earth but Jorgenson started a new trend by placing the ball high on a pile of dirt, scraped up from the playing field around him.

Daryl Halligan, who was invariably described as a “Kiwi superboot” during his rugby league career with North Sydney, Canterbury and New Zealand, modelled his game on All Black fly half Grant Fox. But the notion of having a specialist coach to offer advice and constructive criticism on his goalkicking was unheard of.

The idea of a kicking tee came from American football where the moulded plastic shapes were an early innovation. The use of a tee was first mooted in Rugby League Week in 1975 but was not adopted at premiership level until the early 1990s. St George winger Ian Herron was one of the early exponents of a trend that quickly gained universal acceptance.

Jack Gibson was the first modern day coach to introduce a specialist kicking mentor to assist his playmakers prepare for battle in the 1970s but such guidance was limited to kicking in general play.

Specialist goalkicking coaches did not become the norm in rugby league until the turn of the millennium.

According to Halligan, the greatest benefit of the kicking tee is seen at training where kickers can line up the ball quickly and consistently to maximise their practice kicks.

For generations the leading goalkickers either developed their own style from the schoolyard or modelled their kicking on the leading exponents of the day.

Former Socceroo and current Sydney FC coach Graham Arnold helped numerous NRL players with their kicking and Halligan turned to coaching the kickers when his career wound up in 2000.

For almost 100 years the art of goalkicking was almost entirely an individual pursuit but the advent of a goalkicking coach gives today’s kickers another edge over their early counterparts. Coaching aids such as video analysis of match performance and the use of iPads can further boost the modern kicker’s percentages.

NEW TECHNIQUES

A benefit of kicking coaches is the introduction of alternative techniques. Halligan classes modern goalkickers in three different categories.

The first is the “pivot” kicker or the “traditional” around the corner kicker such as Cowboys co-captain Johnathan Thurston. Thurston kicks with his right foot and uses his left leg as a stationary pivot.

The second he describes as the “traveller”; a kicker like the Warriors’ Shaun Johnson who kicks with his right foot but his pivot leg “skips” after impact with the ball.

The third style Halligan admits is so new that he has yet to ascribe it a name. Kickers such as Jarrod Croker (Raiders) and James Maloney (Roosters) virtually run past the ball, make impact and then land with their kicking foot.

KICKING TEES

In the 1940s, Balmain’s Test centre Joe Jorgenson was regarded as a revolutionary in the art of goalkicking for his use of a mound of dirt when he placed the ball. To that time kickers routinely dug a

STADIUMS

When Canterbury halfback Trent Hodkinson took the field at Mackay’s Virgin Australia Stadium last year he was in career-best form with the boot, landing his previous 15 attempts at goal. The venue, located on open ground 1km from the North Queensland coast, was in the path of a stiff on-shore breeze and with no grandstands to offer protection Hodkinson and Newcastle’s Tyrone Roberts had all sorts of difficulties coping with the conditions. Hodkinson missed all three attempts at goal while Roberts kicked only one from four. The afternoon highlighted another advantage modern kickers enjoy over previous generations. More often than not they are kicking in enclosed stadiums that limit the impact of wind.

NIGHT FOOTBALL

Based on a study of goalkicking for the last completed season (2013), players kicking at night achieved greater success than those who kicked in the daylight.

The difference may appear minimal (75.9 per cent for daytime games against 78.9 per cent at night) but with seven in every 10 games currently played at night, it is a clear advantage that modern kickers enjoy over earlier generations.

Kickers at night do not have to contend with the setting sun or shadows and wind speeds drop on average by 30 per cent at night (based on 2013 figures).

FEWER LONG-RANGE ATTEMPTS

It is rare in the modern game for goalkickers to attempt goals from beyond 30m. In most circumstances coaches will only endorse attempts at penalty goal from close range. If the kick misses, the attacking team is handing cheap possession to the opposition and in a percentage driven game, the coach will only instruct his kicker to “take the two” when a goal seems a sure thing.

HELPING MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE COMMUNITY

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LEADING ALL-TIME GOALKICKING PERCENTAGES Player Goals Attempts % Adam Reynolds 281 332 84.6 Michael Gordon 379 456 83.1 Hazem El Masri 891 1088 81.9 Michael Witt 258 320 80.6 Matthew Ridge 580 723 80.2 Jarrod Croker 310 386 80.3 James Maloney 428 534 80.1 Daryl Halligan 855 1079 79.2 Johnathan Thurston 626 794 78.8 Todd Carney 289 367 78.7 Chris Sandow 299 381 78.5 Ben Walker 300 383 78.3 Kurt Gidley 439 563 78.0 Luke Burt 646 829 77.9 Craig Fitzgibbon 718 934 76.9 Ivan Cleary 553 720 76.8 Scott Prince 389 508 76.6 Michael De Vere 403 527 76.5 Brett Hodgson 460 608 75.7 Jason Taylor 942 1253 75.2

Years 2012-14 2006-14 1996-2009 2003-14 1990-99 2009-14 2009-14 1991-2000 2002-14 2004-14 2008-14 1995-2006 2001-14 1999-2012 1998-2009 1992-2002 1998-2013 1997-2009 1997-2008 1990-2001

*Minimum 200 goals to 19/9/2014

LEADING GOALKICKING PERCENTAGES 2014 Player Goals Pat Richards (Wests Tigers) 54 James Maloney (Sydney Roosters) 98 Trent Hodkinson (Canterbury) 66 Jarrod Croker (Canberra) 65 Michael Gordon (Cronulla) 50 Adam Reynolds (Souths) 84 Shaun Johnson (Warriors) 63 Johnathan Thurston (North Qld) 88 Jamie Soward (Penrith) 61 Jamie Lyon (Manly) 69 Cameron Smith (Melbourne) 68 Chris Sandow (Parramatta) 53 Corey Parker (Brisbane) 57 Gareth Widdop (St George Illawarra) 61

Noted sharp-shooter Daryl Halligan, now a goalkicking coach.

Attempts % 63 85.7 117 83.8 79 83.5 78 83.3 61 82.0 107 78.5 83 75.9 116 75.9 83 73.5 96 71.9 95 71.6 78 67.9 84 67.9 92 66.3

*At 19/9/2014

GOALKICKERS 2014 RATING SYSTEM* Player Points Trent Hodkinson (Canterbury) 97 Johnathan Thurston (North Qld) 85 James Maloney (Sydney Roosters) 79 Jarrod Croker (Canberra) 70 Shaun Johnson (Warriors) 69 Jamie Soward (Penrith) 59 Chris Sandow (Parramatta) 54 Michael Gordon (Cronulla) 52 Gareth Widdop (St George Illawarra) 52| Pat Richards (Wests Tigers) 51 Cameron Smith (Melbourne) 50

In an exercise to highlight the quality of the NRL’s goalkickers in 2014 we have devised a rating system for kickers. Goals kicked from the sideline earn three points, goals kicked from the left or the right of the posts earn two points and goals kicked from in front earn one point each. On the negative side, goals missed from the sideline attract a minus one rating, goals missed from the left or right are penalized by minus two and goals missed from in front are penalised by minus three points.

*At 19/9/2014

Source: David Middleton - League Information Services

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Photos courtesy DAILY TELEGRAPH

‘Golden Boot’s Keith Barnes in leather ball days.

2014 GALA DINNER GATHER YOUR FRIENDS AND SUPPORT THE FOUNDATION

VENUE

Star Events Centre, The Star 80 Pyrmont Street, Pyrmont

DATE & TIME

Wednesday 1 October 7pm for 7:30pm

TICKETS

$300 per person $3000 for a table of 10

WIN THE ULTIMATE SPORTING WEEKEND IN MELBOURNE! BE THERE TO EXPERIENCE DERBY DAY, MELBOURNE CUP

& AUSTRALIA V ENGLAND FOUR NATIONS TEST MATCH BUY YOUR RAFFLE TICKETS NOW AT WWW.MENOFLEAGUE.COM

www.menofleague.com

DRESS Black tie

RSVP

www.menofleague.com events@menofleague.com 02 8765 2232

HELPING MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE COMMUNITY In lieu of attendance donations are greatly appreciated and can be made at www.menofleague.com

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A DAUGHTER’S SPECIAL JOURNEY

BY NEIL CADIGAN

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ormer NRL two-time grand final coach Graham Murray’s presence in rugby league will endure with Men of League Foundation establishing the volunteer of the year award in his honour as the ‘Graham Murray Award’.

His junior club Cabramatta has also honoured one of the game’s most genial characters by naming an award for their junior representative player of the year after ‘Muzza’ too.

However the most personal and moving testament to the much-loved and much-travelled Murray is being scripted by his 20-year-old daughter Cara who is writing a book about her father’s life, carved from the many memories and anecdotes from those Graham touched during nearly four decades as a player, coach and administrator.

Murray died in July 2013 after a second heart attack within months, which came after he had gone back to coaching with Wynnum Manly in the Queensland Cup. He had forged friendships and been an influence on many from his early days in the Liverpool district of Sydney through his playing career at Parramatta and South Sydney to coaching stints at Illawarra, Hunter Mariners, Leeds in England, Sydney Roosters and North Queensland Cowboys then as CEO of Wynnum Manly and head of the elite performance program of the Newcastle Knights.

Many flowed at a recent tribute lunch held by Men of League western Sydney committee at Cabramatta Leagues Club which she attended with her mother Amanda. The attendance list showed how far Muzza’s network spread and included former Eels teammates Geoff Gerard, Eric Grothe, Bob Jay, Kevin Webb the Sulkowicz brothers, plus Ian Millward, Paul McGregor, Craig Izzard and Doug Delaney from his coaching days as well as Stuart Raper, Nathan Cayless, Terry Lamb, who Murray taught at high school, and many more.

“It was very touching to see so many people there but also to have the awards struck in his honour to show what people think of him,” said Amanda.

Cara had only in recent years become old enough for her father to relay some of the stories of his career during the 70s to 90s before she was born and when was too young to know. After hearing many more as 26

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old mates reminisced about their times with Muz, she wanted to know more – and record them for posterity.

“It made me wanted to know him more myself, and learn more about him,” Cara said. “Then I thought it would be good to get a lot of stories down that I can share with others too. In 20 years time I can give it to my kids and they can know about their granddad too.”

Amanda has kept many scrapbooks from Graham’s playing and coaching career and has many wonderful memories of their experiences together. And there were certainly highlights – like taking Illawarra to the finals for the first time in their history in 1992, the Mariners to the World Club Challenge final against all the odds in 1995, Leeds to their first trophy in 1999 (Challenge Cup final victory at Wembley), the Roosters to their first grand final in 25 years in 2000 and the Cowboys to their first finals (2004) and grand final (2005).

“It’s been emotional and hard at times but it’s been wonderful so far and the support I have had from clubs dad was at and from people sending their stories has been great,” said Cara. She has received copies if media conference videos from clubs, photographs and stories, and much love, laughter and tributes from former students of her father, junior players he coached plus familiar ARL and NRL names.

They will all combine to help build a very special biography of a very special man.

If you have any stories or photos of Graham Murray you would like to share with Cara, you can email inmemoryofgrahammurraygmail.com or go to the Facebook page – In Memory of Graham Murray.

MEN OF LEAGUE FORGE NEW GROUND SUPPORTING RETIRING NRL PLAYERS

BY NERISSA MAGEE

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he Men of League Foundation and the National Rugby League (NRL) announced in July that they were set to enter a partnership to support retiring NRL players as they transition out of the game and into new careers.

The new partnership sees the two organisations join forces to create a new collaborative position, NRL alumni manager, to support professional players once they retire and look to move into new ventures and vocations. This development is a groundbreaking first in Australia and also leads the way within the international sporting arena.

In August, it was confirmed that Michael Buettner would take on the role of NRL alumni manager.

Michael’s posting will see him draw on his experience as a former professional rugby league player, his role as game liaison manager for the NRL and his heavy involvement in education, welfare and administration within the NRL to develop leading programs which enhance processes for players.

Within his new role, which he commenced on 8 September, Michael is charged with addressing the gap in support for retired players. Operating out of Men of League’s corporate head office at ANZ Stadium he will play an active role ensuring retired players create strong links and have access to continuous support in the form of career counselling, education, emotional and mental health support, financial assistance and welfare. He will also play a lead role in increasing mentor opportunities and strong ambassadors for the next generation of players coming through the ranks.

Talking about the new role Buettner said, “I am looking forward to getting my teeth into the role, bringing my experience as a player who has been through the retirement process and extensive experience working in various roles within rugby league to the table.

“Having ‘walked the walk’, so to speak will be a big plus in this role.

“It excites me to be part of what is a new chapter for professional sport. Even the NFL in the USA has only just recently started looking at the transition processes around retired players. I am confident that in this role, I will help cement Men of League, the NRL and

The NRL’s Paul Heptonstall, Men of League CEO Corene Strauss and new alumni manager Michael Buettner.

the Rugby League Players Association’s position as pioneers in this area, developing programs never before seen in Australia or around the world.

“I have been a member of the Men of League Foundation for as long as I can remember, joining back in my playing days. It is a fantastic organisation for which I am proud to be a part and I am honoured to have the opportunity to combine my passion for the game and player welfare with the leading sporting charity in Australia.”

Men of League Foundation CEO Corene Strauss said, “These are exciting days for Men of League and we are thrilled to welcome Michael to our ranks and to be working with the NRL in this new capacity.

“The creation of the alumni program will play an integral role in contemporising our organisation, in terms of the range of services and support we can offer, it will make us more relevant than ever before – improving and expanding the ways in we can work to protect and enhance the lives of those in the rugby league community – all under the direction and expertise of Michael Buettner.”

HELPING MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE COMMUNITY

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PROMOTING GOOD HEALTH

LEARN TO LIVE WITH OA Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common chronic joint disease, affecting more than 1.3 million Australians. Here are some tips on how to manage the disease.

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here is no cure for osteoarthritis, which is a major cause of disability, psychological distress and poor quality of life but it can be prevented or delayed and is no longer thought of as an inevitable result of ageing.

The symptoms of OA vary from person to person and will also depend on which joints are affected. OA tends to come on slowly, over months or even years. The most common symptoms are pain and stiffness of the joints and limitation of movement. These sensations are usually worst with activity initially but can be more constant in later disease with minimal movement or even during rest.

These symptoms may affect ability to do normal daily activities, such as walking, climbing stairs and opening jars. Other symptoms may include clicking noises, grating sensations, or a loss of flexibility in a joint.

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The disease disrupts normal functioning of the joint.

Over time the joint tends to lose its normal shape, becoming enlarged and sometimes inflamed.

The main underlying feature of OA is loss of or damage to cartilage tissue. This tissue is needed for easy joint movement. OA commonly affects the joints of the hips, knees, hands and spine but can involve any moveable joint.

The outcomes and response to treatment vary from person to person: some people develop a disability where activities are restricted while others only ever have mild problems.

Research shows there are some factors that contribute to a higher risk of developing OA in certain joints, such as: knees – being overweight, having a previous knee injury; jobs involving kneeling, climbing and squatting;

hips - being overweight; having a previous hip injury; jobs involving lifting heavy loads (including farming); a family history of OA; hands - a family history of OA; repetitive use or previous injuries to the hands; being overweight.

HOW IS IT DIAGNOSED?

A doctor will diagnose OA from your symptoms and a physical examination. An x-ray may show the narrowing and changes in the shape of your joint.

However x-rays do not diagnose how much trouble you will have. An x-ray that shows joint damage does not always mean you will have a lot of pain or problems. On the other hand your joint may be very painful despite x-rays being normal. Blood tests are only helpful to rule out other types of arthritis.

HOW IS IT BEST TREATED?

While there are treatments that can effectively control symptoms, Arthritis Australia warns people with OA to be wary of products or therapies that claim to cure OA. Treatments vary depending on which joints are affected and the severity of the condition. There is no way of predicting exactly which treatment will work best for each person.

Each treatment has its own benefits and risks. A doctor may need to trial several different treatments before finding the one that is right for the individual.

In general terms, treatment usually includes: a weight loss program, if the person is overweight an exercise program tailored to the person’s condition and ability; pain relief using medicines such as paracetamol or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as well as newer psychological approaches; devices such as braces, walking sticks, and insoles; joint replacement surgery, if the symptoms are no longer controlled with other therapies, including weight loss.

JOINT REPLACEMENT

Joint replacement (or arthroplasty) is the most common surgery used for OA. It is used to treat severe OA where other treatment options no longer provide sufficient relief. Joint replacement is cost-effective and highly successful for the majority of people.

A total joint replacement involves replacing the bony parts of the joint with artificial components, called a prosthesis. For example, in a total hip replacement both the ball at the top of the thigh bone and the socket where the three pelvic bones meet are replaced with metal or ceramic parts that are surgically joined to the bones. Joint replacement can reduce the pain and disability of advanced OA, restoring some patients to near-normal function.

Not all information you read or hear about is trustworthy so always talk to your doctor or healthcare team about treatments you are thinking about trying.

SELF-MANAGEMENT

Self-management courses aim to help you develop skills to be actively involved in your healthcare.

Contact your local arthritis office for details of these courses.

Learn ways to manage pain. Stay active; exercise is strongly recommended for people with OA. It keeps joints and muscles healthy and flexible and prevents other health problems. Have a healthy diet. There is no diet that will cure OA, but a diet aimed at maintaining an ideal body weight is recommended.

Balance your life. Learn about equipment that make daily tasks easier and how to balance rest and activity.

Acknowledge your feelings and seek support. Arthritis Australia says that as there is currently no cure for OA, so it is natural to feel scared, frustrated, sad and sometimes angry. Be aware of these feelings and get help if they start affecting your daily life.

Maintaining optimal weight minimises any strain on the joints of the knees, hips and spine. Exercise not only helps to prevent obesity but also maintains the strength of the muscles that support the joints. Lowimpact exercise that involves a low risk of joint injury, such as walking or swimming, is preferred.

Sports injuries can also be avoided by using proper equipment and protective gear, varying activities and resting when something hurts, and by rehabilitating weakened muscles before returning to full activity. It is also important to seek out appropriate treatment for any injuries so they heal properly.

Prevent repetitive kneeling, squatting and heavy lifting in the workplace, precautions can be taken such as varying tasks and using appropriate occupational health and safety techniques. People with joint misalignment may reduce their risk of developing OA by wearing appropriate footwear, strapping or wedges.

Osteoarthritis cannot be cured but its impact can be reduced. Management of OA aims to control pain, reduce the load on the affected joints, improve or maintain mobility of the joints, and increase or maintain the strength of the muscles around the joint. This helps to minimise disability and improve the quality of life.

More information about preventing and managing OA can be obtained from Arthritis Australia - www.arthritisaustralia.com.au Free call 1800 011 041. *Source: Arthritis Australia 2007. Reviewed June 2014.

HELPING MEN, WOMEN AND CHILDREN IN THE RUGBY LEAGUE COMMUNITY

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THE FINANCIAL KEOGH TO SHARKS’ SUCCESS Perhaps no club has had to withstand what the Cronulla Sharks have since the start of 2013: sinking from finalists to wooden-spooners and enduring the ASADA saga. At the helm has been a new but determined chairman Damian Keogh. BY BARRY ROSS

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he Cronulla club has had more than their share of problems during the past couple of years, but their financial situation is not one of them.

For many years money problems plagued the club, the Sharks were struggling under the weight of a $14 million debt. However the 2013 income was around $8 million and this year it will be close to $10 million and that doesn’t include a fee from TV rights. This positive financial result has eventuated despite the lack of onfield success.

The main reason behind the change to the club’s financial status has been the joint venture with the Bluestone Company. This will see the building of around 650 apartments on the west side of Remondis Stadium with 370 of the 400 units already purchased off the plan.

The site of these apartments is on the grounds of the former Cronulla Caringbah JRLFC which is now located about 1km to the east, behind Cronulla High School. Construction of the apartments begin this month (September) and will be completed in two years.

“We will make in excess of $40 million from this development,” said Sharks chairman Damian Keogh.

“It is hard to know the time frame over which we will earn this money, but I would say it is about 10 years.

“The final amount will depend upon the sale of the retail precinct, which will be built where the leagues club car park now stands.

“The sale of places in this retail area is not under our control, but when everything is all finalised, the club will be in a strong financial position.

“That sort of money invested wisely, will confirm the viability of the rugby league club in our area.”

The Sharks are very fortunate to have a chairman with the business nous and sporting expertise of Keogh. He is the CEO of the Hoyts Group after previously being CEO of Val Morgan. The Hoyts Group is an Australian

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group of companies including Hoyts Exhibition, Hoyts Distribution and Val Morgan.

With around 4000 employees, the Hoyts group has more than 450 screens in 40 theatre complexes throughout Australia, as well as 10 in New Zealand.

Damian played more than 200 games of basketball for Australia, and was a three-time Olympian (1984, 1988 and 1992) as well as representing Australia in three world championships. He had a 16-year playing career in the NBL, mostly with the Sydney Kings.

Born in Melbourne in 1962, Keogh moved to the Cronulla area in 1985. Living quite close to Remondis Stadium, he became a Sharks supporter within a few months of arriving.

“There were a lot of happy Saturday and Sunday afternoons in those days as players like Andrew Ettingshausen, Mark McGaw, Gavin Miller and Jonathan Docking played entertaining football and drew good crowds while the team won many matches,” he remembered.

Damian’s 23-year-old son Sam is a member of the De La Salle A grade team in the Cronulla competition.

Damian was approached early last year about any interest in standing for the board elections and decided to do his bit to ensure the struggling club had a future.

“I had had some success in business and I thought I could contribute on the business side of things,” he said. “Living in the shire was important to me and I believed I would be giving something back to the local community.

“I have got to say since I have been a board member it hasn’t been the easiest 18 months. It has certainly been a challenge but on saying this, there are many rewarding aspects to our work.

“What is extremely pleasing is that we are a friendly and united board.”

Damian did not think the ASADA situation would drag on for as long as it has. He says some of the ASADA points of view have been difficult to contend with.

“No one thought it would drag on this long or cause so much ongoing financial and personal strain on the club, the staff and the players,” he said.

“In dollar terms the amount is around $4 million.

And there is no doubt that having our coach, Shane Flanagan, suspended for the 2014 season, has had a severe impact on team performances on the field.

“I think everyone wishes that Steve Dank was never introduced to the club but unfortunately we cannot change history and we have to move ahead the best we can.

“From a board and club perspective, we have just focussed on addressing issues we have control over.

The majority of this has been beyond our control.

“Our club wasn’t as professional as it needed to be.

The correct governance and systems to correctly run a major sporting club in today’s day and age, were just not in place.”

Damian Keigh (top) today and (bottom) as a Sydney Kings basketball king. Photos courtesy DAILY TELEGRAPH

The Todd Carney incident was another situation the club did not need. Keogh pointed out that this happened just two days after the Sharks had been in excellent spirits. They hadn’t scored a point in three games but then came the 24-22 win over the Broncos in Brisbane after they had been down 22-0.

“Todd is one of our highest paid players and with that, I feel, you have responsibility,” he explained. “We are looking for sponsors and everyone connected with our club must be aware that our image is vital.

“We can’t have incidents to which the public react negatively and after Todd’s actions went public, we had no choice [but to sack Carney].

“He is a talented player and I would like to see him back in the game some day.”

Married to Maree for 25 years, the couple and their four children are proud Shire residents and plan to live in the area indefinitely.

With the Sharks financial situation now secure, Keogh predicts that the club’s onfield results will change next season.

“I see much success for our club in the future and I hope to be a part of the success for many years to come,” he said.

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CHARLIE COULD BANK ON SPEED Charlie Banks was fast and successful. And he proved to be both, twice, on grand final day 1949 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Charlie, who turned 91 on August 31, played in the second row in the side that beat South Sydney 19-12 before a crowd of more than 56,000.

Part of grand final day in those times was the feature sprint races between the backs, and then the forwards, to see who were the fastest players in the game.

Despite being about to play the biggest game of his career, Charlie entered the forwards’ sprint and won over 100 yards in full playing gear, before retiring to the members stand dressing rooms and headed out minutes later to play his part in grand final victory, breaking clear to set up what proved the matchwinning try for centre Doug McRitchie.

The ’49 Dragons side, with Charlie back row far right. Ball boy is Warren Saunders, later Dragons chairman.

a result of that was that he was reluctantly forced to become a Rooster. While playing for the Tricolours he represented NSW in two games in 1951, one a victory against the brilliant Frenchmen.

Charlie, who served in World War II in the commando unit in New Guinea, ran a panel beating shop at Kings Cross for many years before becoming a publican at the Fitzroy Hotel in Woolloomooloo.

To make the day even more special, Charlie’s younger brother Jim played in the Dragons’ third grade winning team (he also won a reserve grade title in 1951).

He lived for 14 years in Bundarra on NSW’s northern tablelands until he suffered some ill-health this year and was hospitalised. He was heartened by a visit from Men of League’s north-west committee members who swapped old rugby league memories.

After falling for a lass called Shirley Smith, Charlie – who was a panel beater – married her and moved into the Assembly Hotel run by her father in Sydney but

In the past month Charlie has moved to the Opal (nursing home) Norah Head on the Central Coast and would welcome visitors from the Men of League fraternity.

MEN OF LEAGUE MEMBERSHIP MOVING FORWARD One of the great features of Men of League is its unique membership base.

However the membership model has proven to be unsustainable for the future of the Foundation as the cost to acquire and service members is now more than the fee itself. But the need for members is absolutely essential.

Following consultation with our committees and the Board it has been agreed that from 1 October 2014 all NEW membership fees will be $20 per annum which includes a hard copy of the quarterly magazine, a keyring with your membership number, and invitations to Men of League events as well as priority status when registering for events or welfare.

The Gold Membership will remain at $150 per annum and will include recognition of your membership annually in the Men of League Magazine, a Gold Membership plaque, Men of League Gold Membership key ring, four editions of the Men of League Magazine each year and information on Men of League Events.

Existing members can opt to pay the $20 per annum but are under no obligation to do so. However their support in this regard will make a huge difference to the operations of the Foundation. If existing members wish to support the Foundation by signing up to pay $20 per annum please email admin@menofleague. com or call 02 8765 2232.

The Board is now deliberating on the Corporate membership structure and more information on this will be made available in the next edition of the magazine.

On behalf of the Board, thank you to all members who have supported us and we look forward to your ongoing support.

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IF THESE WALLS COULD TALK It was the place of high-level board or general committee meetings and judiciary hearings for decades, the place where some of the most dramatic moments of rugby league were played out. The NSW Leagues Club is almost 100 years old … but has been sold to developers. BY ROY MASTERS

I

t seems major events in rugby league take 100 years. The Super League war broke out in 1995, a century after the game began in England. The NSW Leagues Club, the home away from home for so many footballers from the bush, will be 100 in December.

The NSWRL took possession of the 169 Phillip Street building at the urging of James Joynton Smith MLC, president of the league, in 1914. Smith was an extremely wealthy businessman, with large hotel and shopping centre holdings throughout NSW, including the Imperial Arcade in nearby Elizabeth Street.

There won’t be any celebrations or birthday cakes because the eight-floor property in Phillip Street, Sydney, has been sold to a developer for $15.5 million.

Like many inner city watering holes, the club became victim to the transfer of city workers to the suburbs, prohibitive poker machine taxes and a long-term lease of the upper four residential floors, where the promise of patronage of the club’s facilities did not materialise.

The building was originally the Broughton Club, named after the first Anglican Bishop of Australia and was frequented by clergymen. Then it became the United Services club but on 14 November, 1912, a violent gas explosion occurred, wrecking floors, walls, ceilings and it became vacant.

The club was officially opened on 22 March, 1915, with a large gathering of 200 people.

The first secretary was Horrie Miller, the former Eastern Suburbs winger who was the leading try scorer in the 1908-09 seasons, the fastest player in rugby league and the man who invented the expression ‘greatest game of all’.

The club moved two doors to its current address of 165 Phillip St in 1918 and it wasn’t long before the club had assets of around £100,000. Breweries regarded it as ‘the best pub in town’ with annual liquor sales of over £10,000.

Club management did not take the law on six o’clock closing too seriously. On 4 July, 1941, licensing police raided the club at 9pm and found liquor being served.

Police charged the then secretary Arthur Robinson with breaches of the Licensing Act. The issue became a test case for the validity of the 6pm closing legislation, with Mr Redshaw KC (for the Crown) mocking the transformation of the NSW Leagues Club from a sanctuary for ‘bishops and churchmen and then admirals and colonels’ to a drinking den for ‘fullbacks and wing-three quarters’.

The eminent barrister had obviously never seen prop forwards consume, such as Wests’ Dallas Donnelly, who could sink 10 schooners after a judiciary hearing.

The original building before the club moved a few metres.

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Two years earlier, the club was in trouble with the politicians. On 23 August, 1938, Mr Waddell (member

the club’s barbershop on the ground floor. Dorman and the barber gave chase, catching and subduing the resisting Tyson until police arrived. Tyson was sentenced to three years gaol. He protested his innocence from the dock claiming mistaken identity.

But it seems there may have been some pilfering indoors. On 11 February, 1939, the vice-president of the NSWRL, Mr H.F. Benning, said publicly: “Some of the officials are treating the League as a hobby horse, using it for their own gratification.”

It’s not clear whether he was referring to club or NSWRL officials but in February 1946 Horrie Miller was sacked from his dual role of secretary of the NSWRFL and Australian Board of Control after £80 could not be accounted for in finances Terry Hughes received the first Rothmans Medal in 1968 at NSW Leagues Club.

for Waverley) made a speech attacking rugby league in the NSW Legislative Assembly, threatening to have the leagues club declared a ‘common gaming house’.

He alleged that up to six SP bookmakers had been operating in the club for 14 years on Saturdays with leagues club officials subscribing to an illegal agency that disseminated racing information.

“Some of the officials are treating the League as a hobby horse, using it for their own gratification.”

Nor was the club immune from embezzlement and robbery. On 17 October, 1930, Patrick Joseph McGrath, 37, who had worked at the club for 10 years, was charged with embezzling 950 boxes of cigarettes and 16,000 cigars, valued at £1,262 from the club.

McGrath later pleaded guilty and was sentenced to two years imprisonment in the Tuncurry Afforestation Camp.

On 27 February, 1939, William Lennon, assistantsecretary of the NSW Leagues Club, left the club at 11am via the Elizabeth Street exit holding a bag containing £245 to bank.

William Tyson, 32, a former professional boxer, was outside pretending to read a newspaper. Tyson punched Lennon to the ground before running off with the bag.

The shouts of Lennon alerted former Balmain firstgrader Jack Dorman who was having his hair cut in

Then on 17 August, 1981, a press conference was held at the leagues club where NSWRL president Kevin Humphreys announced that an investigation was ongoing into the alleged misappropriation of $69,000 of club funds.

While Humphreys talked to the media, two senior league officials, John ‘Martin Place’ O’Toole and Eric ‘The Bosun’ Cox, scuffled before all to see. One combatant was thrown through a door leading to the committee room. The men later avoided suspension by apologising to the board.

Cox, who served in the navy and boasted ‘these hands can kill’, was angry about the use of hire cars to take wives shopping.

Some famous old players have lived on the premises.

When police evacuated the surrounding buildings in November 1922 following a spectacular fire attended by 60 firemen and 10 fire engines, they were met by club chief steward Dan Frawley. He was the pioneer Kangaroo winger and Boar War veteran and worked at the club for 30 years.

In the 1950s Dally Messenger, a pensioner, lived in a bedsitter rent-free on the second floor. He was a regular at league functions and also presentation nights in the country representing the NSWRFL. Dally was particularly close friends with the doorman Jack Sprowster and Frawley.

In 1956, Dally was ordered to pay rent and left Sydney.

In more recent times, the NSWRL, whose original charter allowed them rent free occupation for their offices, was also forced to pay rent.

The code’s state headquarters are now housed at Rugby League Central in Moore Park.

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REMEMBERING T The Foundation wishes to recognise the recent passing of the following people who left a positive legacy within the rugby league community.

For more tributes or expanded versions, go to www.menofleague.com

TOMMY BAXTER

Former New Zealand rugby league centre Tommy Baxter passed away in May after battling a long illness.

He was 84.

Tom represented the Kiwis in 29 Tests between 1949 and 1956 (10 as captain including the 1955-1956 tour of Great Britain and France), scoring six tries.

He was inducted into the New Zealand Legends of League in 1995 and in 2007; he was named in the New Zealand Team of the Century.

GREG BOYD

Greg Boyd passed away in August, aged 53, after losing his battle with leukaemia. He refereed the 1983 Parramatta A grade grand final and a year later was graded into the NSWRL Referees Association, officiating in six first grade games.

Sadly, Greg’s wife, Jan, had passed away in February 2013 in a car accident. Greg leaves behind a brother Glen, a sister Vicki and his mother Barbara Boyd.

COL BROOKS

The Gunnedah community was saddened by the passing of former player and long-time supporter Col Brooks who lost his battle with cancer. Col was a valued member of the Men of League North West.

Col spent a great deal of his working life as a groundsman at Kitchener Park, home of the Gunnedah Bulldogs. He was held in high regard by the Gunnedah towns people and will be sadly missed.

BOB BURNS (FISHBURN)

Burns sadly passed away in June, aged 70. He had been in the intensive care unit at St George Hospital for many weeks with a severe chest infection.

Bob was a natural sportsman who grew up on the streets of Paddington playing cricket, Australian 36

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Football and rugby league, which was his real passion.

He represented NSW high schools in cricket and rugby league in 1958 before moving onto a distinguished career, playing lock and second row in many premiership winning teams including Chelsea United in the strong South Sydney junior competition. He was renowned for his fearless tackling, ball distribution and never leaving the field of play even when injured.

He was a highly successful plumber and worked until 1988 when he was involved in a horrific work accident in which a fellow worker was killed. Bob’s right leg being badly broken and he suffered ongoing complications including contracting golden staph in 2002, resulting in his right leg and hipbone being amputated.

He undertook a lengthy recovery period in hospital and following this, at the Salvation Army Aged Care Centre in Arncliffe, where he had resided ever since.

Since 2010, he had been an active member at all functions held by the Chelsea Old Mates. Bob was the conduit for the formation of this group that cares for and assists friends and colleagues from the Chelsea United RLFC as well as other clubs.

The Men of League Foundation in recent years had provided valuable welfare assistance to Bob, in particular, granting him with an electronic wheelchair and a laptop to improve his lifestyle.

JOHN MILLER

John Miller, a tough back-rower for the North Sydney Bears and Wyong Kangaroos, passed away in June. aged 63 after struggling with cancer for 18 months.

John was born in Griffith and moved with his parents to North Sydney at a young age. He loved rugby league and became a member of the 1970 McMahons Point A Grade premiership winning side and later made grade with North Sydney, eventually making first grade before moving to the Central Coast and joining the Wyong Kangaroos while establishing a successful plumbing business.

THOSE NOW GONE Brian passed away suddenly in July and is survived by his wife Donna, Ben and partner Cherry, Josh, Billy and grandson Heath.

NEVILLE CHARLTON, OAM Courtesy of Wests Tigers

Charlton played 228 first grade games at three clubs over 16 seasons: 143 for Western Suburbs between 1954 and 1961, 61 games for Canterbury and 24 for Easts. He captained the Magpies in the 1961 grand final against St George. And also played in the 1958 grand final. He represented New South Wales in 1959 and 1961.

Charlton was a fearless player, who was generally regarded as the ‘best prop forward not to play for Australia’ during his era and was fondly known as ‘Boxhead’, a nickname he didn’t particularly like.

However, it was bestowed by his teammates and rugby league fans as an honour, very much a badge of courage.

GARY GERMON

Our North West committee, in the last edition of this magazine, reported visiting Gary. Sadly, the cancer he was battling spread through his body and he lost his fight in July.

Men of League North West welfare officers Ken Thompson and Kevin Robinson visited Gary in hospital a short time before he passed away. When they asked how he was going he just said “The doc told me to make sure my will is in order” and for the next hour was just full of fun and laughter. The memory of how he faced his future will stay with them forever.

MAX GODFREY

Max was graded into the NSW Referees Association in 1961 and in 11 seasons to 1975 officiated in 93 first grade games as a touch judge. He was bestowed with life membership in 1979. He passed away in August, aged 87.

Tough, mobile and an impressive ball distributor, Charlton was also a strong leader. His record is all the more remarkable when you consider that he played in a 10-team competition, with only 18 games in a regular season.

Charlton was named in the Western Suburb’s Team of the Century and is a member of the club’s Hall of Fame.

He retired to the Central Coast where he became heavily involved in the local community and earlier this year was honoured with an OAM for his services. He was a committee member of the Men of League Foundation.

Charlton had fought a spirited battle against illness before he passed away on the Central Coast.

Max played for the Magpies in 1954 and was also a first grade cricketer for Cumberland.

KEVIN HAIN

The South Sydney Rabbitohs lost one of their greatest supporters with the passing of Kevin Hain in late April 2014 at the age of 87.

BRIAN COCKBAIN

Kevin had a distinguished career with the Commonwealth Bank for over 50 years in senior positions in Australia and the Pacific Islands.

Brian moved to Macksville in 1988 with his work on the railways and played 110 first grade games for the Macksville Sea Eagles under coaches Jim Leis and Cliff Cartwright, winning a premiership in 1995. He represented Group 2 in the Super League series and was judged Group 2’s best and fairest in 1990 and 1993.

Men of League Northern Sydney welfare officers Chris Letters, Fred Jackson and Ken Vessey had the pleasure of visiting Kevin, his charming wife Joan and daughter Ally during 2013 at the Bupa Aged Centre in Mosman. His room was adorned with items of South Sydney memorabilia from signed footballs, red and green caps and scarves, framed jerseys and drawings of team greats. He was a larger than life character who had people in continual laughter was a great mate of the late Clive Churchill.

Brian Cockbain played over 100 games for the Temora Dragons and also played with Wagga Brothers where he won a premiership. He also represented Groups 9 and 13.

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DR BILL MONAGHAN

Dr Bill Monaghan, who died at age 87, gave more than 30 years’ service to rugby league.

He began as the Newtown club doctor in the mid-1960s and moved on to become the doctor for Australian and NSW teams for more than 20 years, touring as the doctor with the 1978, 1982 and 1986 Kangaroos to England and France among many touring teams.

Monaghan was also a vice-president of the NSWRL and was a life member of the NSWRL and the Newtown Jets and he worked for the Dragons in the 1980s.

Later he became a director of the NSW Leagues Club, and chairman until resigning this position in April this year because of illness.

In his working life he went from a private practice in Riverwood the inaugural director of accidents and emergency at St George hospital and later the medical superintendent of the hospital. He served as coordinator of disaster planning for Sydney airport and lectured at the University of NSW. One of the foundation members of the Men of League, Bill was a hard working supporter of our organisation since the beginning.

JACK O’SULLIVAN

O’Sullivan passed away in 20 May, aged 87. He was graded into the NSW Referees Association in 1961 and became a life member in 1974.

He made his first grade debut in 1965, officiating in 99 first grade

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games, plus a Test match in 1966 between Australia v Great Britain.

He retired in 1974 but stayed involved in many committees as well as coaching young referees.

He was also a life member of Western Suburb Referees and the CYO Referees Associations.

In 2008 he won the Eric Cox Medal for 20 years of continuous service to refereeing.

JOHN W OSBORNE

John played President’s Cup and was a member of the third grade Balmain premiership side in 1960. He was always a Balmain supporter and was a believer that “Balmain boys don’t cry”.

He played competition cricket when he moved to Canberra. Upon his return to Sydney he settled at Allambie Heights. He passed away in June and will be sadly missed by his wife Fay, his children and their spouses, his 21 grandchildren and friends.

OWEN SMITH

Owen Smith passed away in June after a battle with cancer, at age 65. He lived in the Wyong district on the Central Coast of NSW. Owen attended Wyong High School after moving to the coast with his family from the Tamworth area after his father was appointed as the Wyong railway station master.

In 1967, he was a prop forward in the undefeated Wyong under-19 side in the Group 12 (Central Coast) competition and like six of his teammates went onto make first grade during a golden era in the 1970s that saw several premiership winning teams of the Wyong Kangaroos.

At age 16, he played rugby league for West Ithaca who won grand premiers and the President’s Cup. In 1951 he played and won the under20s premiership for Western Suburbs. The following year he won a first grade premiership with Wests.

DES WALSH

Group 11 club Narromine lost one of its stalwarts with the passing of former premiership player and president Des Walsh from non-Hodgkinsons lymphoma.

Des was a member of the renowned 1968 premiership team which defeated the Ken McMullan coached Dubbo CYMS and featured players such as NSW centre Bob Weir and Western Division representative Arnold Gillespie, father of Australian star David Gillespie.

After retiring from playing, Des assumed the role of club president and the club achieved success with the 1974 team winning the premiership.

Des is survived by his loving wife Roslyn of 50 years, daughters Suzanne and Melissa and son Darren and their families.

ERIC ‘BEN’ WILLIAMS

Ben loved rugby league since his early days in Brisbane and was selected to play for Queensland in the seven stone, seven pound schoolboy side.

On Labour Day in 1953, while playing rugby league for his beloved Wests, he sustained a spinal injury and this ended his football playing days and would set the course of the rest of his life.

Newly married and left paralysed and in hospital, he was informed by doctors that he may not live, would never walk, and never be able to conceive children.

Later that same year, the young couple were expecting their first child.

He passed away in July after watching his much loved Maroons smash the Blues in the final Origin game.

REGISTER YOUR SUPPORT FOR THE MEN OF LEAGUE FOUNDATION TODAY! To commemorate the heritage of our game Men of League commissioned limited edition medallions. There are still a small number of medallions available. At $99 each, by purchasing one of the coins you will not only secure yourself a piece of exclusive memorabilia all the funds raised will go to Men of League and its continued welfare efforts – supporting men, women and children in the rugby league community who need a hand.

To order your medallion please contact Men of League in Sydney on 02 8762 2232 or admin@menofleague.com.

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LENDING A HELPING HAND treatment which resulted in Bill being able to have some use of his left hand and walk in a fashion.

Fred Jackson, Norm Pounder and Ken Vessey visit Bill Bradley (seated left)

BILL STILL AN INSPIRING FIGURE

Bill Bradley may be 79 and confined to a wheelchair, but to know his story can only leave one inspired by a man who has shown enormous strength and courage as he has overcome obstacles that threatened his life.

Northern Sydney welfare officers Norm Pounder, Ken Vessey and Fred Jackson had the pleasure to visit Bill and his delightful wife Clover at their Hornsby home and learn about his journey that saw a promising sporting career cut down by polio but be a condition that did not deter him from having a fulfilling life and enriching the fortunes of many others.

Bill, who once had Olympic sprinter Betty Cuthbert as a classmate and was regarded alongside her as the best sports prospect from the Ermington area in Sydney, played rugby union at schools representative level and was a promising middle distance runner.

However, at age 14, he contracted polio and his sporting dreams ended abruptly when he was hospitalised for over 18 months his parents were told “take him home and bring him back when he is 21 and we will try transplanting muscles”. They found alternative

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His family returned to Belrose where Bill had been born and discovered that the area was deprived of sporting or social venues for the countless aspiring young rugby league players. So Bill quickly developed a “cow paddock” as the only football venue north of the Roseville River and west of Brookvale Oval. In 1955 he became founder of the Belrose Brumbies Rugby League Club (now the Belrose Eagles JRL Football Club) which fielded an under-14 team in the Manly Warringah junior competition. The club given a grant from the MWJRL of twenty pounds plus one football on the condition that the team played in green and white colours that had been registered by the Forestville Sports Club, which was unable to field any teams.

The Belrose Brumbies registered an under-21 team in which future Australian player and coach Frank Stanton played as a 16 year old.

The club’s colours were eventually changed to the red and gold representing the native flowers of the area, bush bells and bush roses. The Belrose Eagles are celebrating their 60th season as a nursery for young players including many that have gone onto enjoy professional careers such as internationals Stanton, John “Pogo” Morgan and Geoff Toovey.

In recent years the club has also successfully fielded teams in the Jim Beam Cup and the Sydney Shield.

Bill has not been idle, in recent years achieving remarkable success in winning a gold medal for Australia at the

1998 International Paralympic Committee’s world championship in the quadriplegic single division for Lawn Bowls in South Africa.

He was an Olympic torch bearer at the 2000 Sydney Olympics and represented Australia in 2007 at the International Federation of Disabled Sailing qualifying trials for the Paralympic Games in Canada.

Clover and Bill have been married for 42 years, have two children and three grandchildren.

Nor, Fred and Ken presented Bill with a Men of League polo shirt and cap in recognition of his long service to rugby league, to disabled sports and the community at large.

DICK DELIGHTED AS VISIT

Dick Huddart, the Great Britain International forward and first English player to win a grand final in Australia with the all-conquering St George of the 1960s, was delighted when Men of League Gold Coast welfare officers Greg Sylvester, Bob Honan, Tom Bishop, Graham Farrar and John Lang paid him a visit at his residence.

The long striding, tough as nails, second-rower has been suffering from severe lower back pain for a few months, causing him to become temporarily house bound.

Huddart toured Australia with Great Britain in 1958 and in 1962 when they retained the Ashes and played 16 Tests for his country. He won the Lance Todd Medal in the 1961 Challenge Cup final, playing for St Helens, and scored a try for St George in their 1966 grand final victory against Balmain). He was named a Whitehaven club ‘immortal’ and in the St Helens team of the century.

The boys presented Dick with a Men of League shirt, hat and a small present. Dick signed the Men of League jersey, which now has 60 signatures and will be auctioned at the Gold Coast International Gala Dinner on Friday, 27 February 2015 at the Burleigh Bears Leagues Club. Tickets for the event are available by calling Burleigh Bears.

PEARDY CREATES LAUGHTER

John Peard, Brian Finegan, and Alan Webb from Men of League Sydney Metro, along with national welfare and education manager Ben Ross, visited Ray Durie at Opal Windward Manor nursing home in Chiswick.

Ray was a Canterbury junior who played President’s Cup before moving to Newtown where he played lower grades in the early 1960s as a second row forward.

(from left) John Strong, Steve Manning, Pat Hundy, Anne Edwards, Gary Edwards, Neil Pengilley, Graham Eadie, and Greg Cox

MURWILLUMBAH SUPPORTS GARY

The Murwillumbah and district community came together to raise funds for Gary Edwards, of Pottsville, who had been diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease.

Gary, 51, played for Brothers in Murwillumbah but finished when he was 23 due to needing a knee reconstruction. He was a speedy winger who represented Group 18 up to under-21 level. He is a passionate Manly supporter and worked for Boyds Bay Garden and Environment who are a terrific supporter of the Men of League.

The Murwillumbah community organised a fundraiser for Gary at Brothers Leagues Club with Men of League assisting with the donation of a signed and framed Indigenous All Stars Jersey kindly donated by Terry and Madeline Gale, parents of Brett and Scott who also suffered motor neurone disease and died at the age of 39. An excellent response by the Murwillumbah community resulted in a significant amount being raised for Gary and his family of wife Anne and children Allie and Khye.

John entertained residents as they had lunch and a staff member commented to me that she had never heard so much laughter at the home for a long time.

Also resident at the home was Trevor Jones, who has suffered a stroke, and his wife Toni.

They were former publicans and had numerous hotels and in conversation many names mentioned were known by us all.

Ex Bears visit North Sydney Oval

BACK TO BEAR ESSENTIALS

A group of former Bears legends, and other illustrious league men, enjoyed the first ‘Men of League Back to the Game’ outing at North Sydney Oval in July. And it certainly was a nostalgic day – at the picturesque ‘Bear Park’ on a sunny Sunday afternoon watching Norths and Wests Tigers go around in the NSW Cup. Men of League Northern Sydney, with the generosity and assistance of Bears boss Greg Florimo and Men of League welfare and education manager Ben Ross, arranged to transport an illustrious

group of former Bears that included Barry Glasgow, John Gray, Paul Hancock, Noel Kelly (a North coach),Tim Murphy, Rex Murphy, Tim Pickup, Jeff Simmons and Bruce Walker, plus Denis Bendall (Balmain), Norm Pounder (Manly), Fred Jackson (South and Easts) and Michael Hyde (Frank Hyde’s son), Ian Dodds and Ken Vessey for the afternoon of footy, fun and trading of memories.

L-R Norm Pounder, Rodney Hope, Ken Vessey

RODNEY HOPE, A FRESHWATER MAN

Many people believe that the suburb of Freshwater is one of the most pleasant locations on the Sydney’s northern beaches area and on a recent sunny day when Norm Pounder, Fred Jackson and Ken Vessey met up with Rodney Hope for a coffee and chat at the Freshwater Village, it certainly lived up to its reputation.

Rodney, who is a recent retiree from the workforce after many years as a school teacher and working for a federal government agency, strongly believes that retirement is the best thing ever.

He has basically lived most of his life in the area and naturally is a regular at the Harbord Hilton Hotel.

He has followed and enjoyed rugby league all his life, having played as a hooker in his early junior days in the Many Warringah junior league with the North Curl Curl and in 1971 won the C grade competition playing for the Seaforth before playing rugby union when attending Goulburn Teachers College. In recent years he has been a committee member at the Valleys United club and these days is a keen supporter of the Manly Sea Eagles.

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They were from the northern NSW country and were all undertaking rehabilitation at Royal Rehab at Ryde after suffering serious injuries. Chris and Michael commented that they had not been to ANZ Stadium before and were thrilled to be there.

Bob Ridley enjoying his visit from the Men of League

RIDLEY ENJOYS COMPANY

Former Balmain centre, Bob Ridley was surprised when he received a visit from Men of League Gold Coast welfare officers Greg Sylvester, Bob Honan and Graham Farrar at Alamanda Private Hospital where he was recuperating from complications following an operation on his left shoulder.

Ridley played for the Tigers from 1962-1965 including the 1964 grand final against St George, lost 11-6. He was also a police officer for 23 years and was on Tigers committee in 1969 when Balmain beat raging favourites South Sydney 11-2 in the grand final.

Ken and Fred, who will visit them again, send their thanks to the South Sydney District Rugby League Football Club Ltd for kindly supplying the game tickets.

Sydney Metro welfare officers Alan Webb and Brian Finegan enjoyed visiting Geoff Barrett at Prince of Wales Hospital Randwick, also meeting his wife Fay was staying at a bed and breakfast in Randwick while Geoff was in hospital.

FIRST TIMERS AT ANZ STADIUM

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After returning to Sydney in early 1965, he coached the Tigers lower grade teams that included Garry Leo, Greg Fryer, Des Bonner, John Spencer and Arthur Beetson and has remained an avid Tigers supporter since.

A WELCOMED VISIT

Back: Norman Peters, Belinda (partner of Chris Peters) and daughter Courtney-Jean, Fred Jackson. Front: Chris Peters, Michael Simon with son Allan, wife Stacey

Those that came along were Chris Peters, his partner Belinda, daughter Courtney-Jean and father Norman; Michael Simon, his wife Stacey and son Allan; and Max Lee and his father David.

He moved to Mittagong where he represented Southern Division against the touring Great Britain and was captain-coach of three consecutive Group 6 premierships for Mittagong.

Max Lee, Ken Vessey and David Lee

Geoff, an active member of Men of League north west (NSW), is a former player, committeeman, president and a life member of the Narrabri Blues.

Northern Sydney welfare officers Fred Jackson and Ken Vessey had the pleasure to meet and entertain three gents and their families in June at an NRL night match between South Sydney and Wests Tigers.

was a member of the 1954, 55 and 56 third grade premiership teams and played some first grade with Harry Raven, Bob Boland, Bobby Mara, Keith Barnes, Laurie Fagan and his good mate Bob Tracey.

Gordon ‘Nipper’ Goldsmith and Brian Finegan

‘NIPPER’ GOLDSMITH

Alan Webb and Brian Finegan paid a visit to Gordon ‘Nipper’ Goldsmith at Clermont Nursing Home, Ryde in August.

Nipper started his career with the Balmain Tigers in the 1950s. He

Welfare Officers Steve Troth (left) and Ernie Maclay (right) visiting Les at Canberra Hospital

WEST BELCONNEN STALWART SAVAGE

Les Savage is well known in the Canberra area and has been involved with rugby league since 1975. He initially played with the West Belconnen and became an official with the club.

Les was first elected vice-president and over the years went on to hold every committee position including president. His inspiration and dedication to the club was exceptional and he was rewarded with a life membership for his outstanding contribution. After 30 years of service, Les retired after suffering from a stroke. However, with his courage he managed to recover and become involved with Australian Bark Works and was also elected patron of the West Belconnen club.

Sadly in July, Les suffered another stroke and is in the recovery ward at Canberra Hospital. Two Canberra Monaro welfare officers Ernie Maclay and Steve Troth visited Les, conversing about old times with written notes.

All members of Canberra Monaro wish Les and his wife of 47 years, Helen (who was also heavily involved in the club) all the very best for a speedy recovery.

100 NOT OUT FOR STEVE

Well-known Gympie league identity Steve Mahoney, a former Wanderers Rugby League club and Gympie representative coach. recently celebrated his 100th birthday.

Steve’s family held an open house for him in Brisbane and friends from Gympie visited the league veteran. Stewie Mackay, Ronnie Coleman, Merv Rowlands, Bobby Coxon and Jim Saunders were among the visitors and had their photo taken under his prized framed Wanderers jersey. Gympie Men of League also presented Mahoney with a hamper.

They found Tom played grade with the Rabbitohs in the early 1970s, and he has lost his leg and was having problems with an infection in his foot. He told them of his memories of playing with George Piggins and Paul Sait at Souths.

They presented Tom with a Men of League polo shirt and magazine he was over the moon.

They then caught up with Ronald who was captain of the Newtown President’s Cup team in 1948 and played one second grade game the following year. He was then asked by Cec Fifield, the coach of Rochdale Hornets, to go to England with Easts players Tom Duffy, Cec Kelly, Wally Ellian and his brother Reg. He had some great tales of that era.

Master Peters, Norm Pounder, Chris Peters and partner Belinda, and Ken Vessey.

ROYAL REHAB CENTRE PUTNEY

Royal Rehab in Putney, Sydney aspires to be Australia’s leading rehabilitation and disability support provider and be respected for their clinical research and teaching excellence.

Tom Smith enjoying his visit from the Men of League

DOUBLE REWARD FROM VISIT

Western Sydney welfare officers Kevin Corbett, Noel Willick and Garry O’Donnell had scheduled a visit Ronald Stanford at Liverpool Hospital but while waiting to see him noticed Tom Smith in adjacent room with South Sydney gear in his room.

Men of League Northern Sydney welfare officers, Norm Pounder and Ken Vessey, were given a guided tour through the new premises, which opened in February 2014. Among the many areas visited was the 16 bed brain injury unit which offers individually tailored multi-disciplinary inpatient rehabilitation programs, the 20 bed spinal injury unit which provides inpatient rehabilitation using multi-disciplinary client-centred

and a goal orientated approach as well as the extensive outdoor recreational and activities areas.

During the visit, Norm and Ken spoke to many clients including members of the rugby league family, including Chris Peters and his family who they had previously met along with Michael Simon and Max Lee (no longer at Royal Rehab) on a night out at a recent match between South Sydney and Wests Tigers. Norm and Ken presented Chris and Michael with Men of League polo shirts and caps in appreciation of their support of the game and their courage.

Acting on the advice of our contacts at Royal Rehab, the attendance at outdoor events, especially NRL matches, assists tremendously in the individual rehabilitation of their clients. The Men of League has been able to arrange tickets for a number of wheelchair clients and their carers to attend additional NRL games at ANZ Stadium, much to the delight of those attending.

Plans are being considered between Men of League Northern Sydney and national office to arrange more visits, possible outings and to forge an ongoing relationship with the Royal Rehab Centre.

RUGBY LEAGUE WEEK WINNER Men of League would like to thank our loyal members for their continued support of the Foundation. To show our appreciation, we have randomly selected Beth Staines (member #18,824) to win a one-year Rugby League Week magazine subscription! Special thanks to Rugby League Week who have kindly donated this prize. Keep an eye out in future magazines to see if you are the next member to win!

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FRANCE NEEDS HELP AS LEAGUE STRUGGLES Former long-serving Courier-Mail scribe STEVE RICKETTS visited the south of France where he saw thriving rugby league communities during Kangaroo tours in the 1980s... but found a very different environment now.

S

itting in a bar in Paris’s Latin Quarter my conversation with a Canadian, a Parisian and a barman from Normandy turned to rugby league.

The Canadian owned a local sports bar, and he told me State of Origin packed the joint out.

The Parisian said he much preferred league to union since watching NRL and Super League on a regular basis on pay TV. The big guy from Normandy scoffed at league in France, because of its minnow status, before admitting he had played the 13-man code in Avignon in the south.

Rugby League in France is celebrating its 80th season and, after the halcyon days immediately before World War II and in the 1950s, the game is struggling.

This is despite the Perpignan-based Catalans Dragons competing with honour in British Super League and their merchandise sales are the envy of the competition.

The Dragons are an amalgamation of the old XIII Catalan and St Esteve clubs, with XIII Catalan boasting a 20-5 win over the 1949 Kangaroos.

The top domestic competition in France is Elite 1, with Perpignan and Toulouse the only real ‘big city’ clubs.

Avignon, Lezignan, Albi, Limoux, Villeneuve-sur-Lot and St Gaudens are some of the smaller communities that boast clubs.

And therein lies one of the problems for the game in France. In the glory days it boasted top clubs in big cities like Marseille, Bordeaux, Lyon and Roanne, but not any more.

Villeneuve was the first club to defect from rugby union in 1934, and the Leopards have a proud history, including a championship win when Paul Sironen was a contracted player.

But some in the town are predicting the demise of the club in the next few years, because of cuts in funding from local government. The Leopards were competitive

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last year, and their star was an 18-year-old five-eighth, who has since been signed by cashed-up rugby union.

My wife Marie and I had several weeks in French league heartland in July, first in Perpignan where I spent the best part of a day at Catalans Dragons HQ at the impressive Gilbert-Brutus Stadium.

The players were hurting, physically and emotionally, after a last-minute penalty goal cost them a win at Headingley against Leeds the previous day.

But they went out of their way to be hospitable, as is the French way. I was also interviewed by prominent local sports writer Herve Girette (you can view the result on-line at SportchocTv).

Perpignan Rugby Union Club has been relegated to division two for the first time, so league has a chance to cash in. But, from my understanding, the union club will operate with a substantial budget, and will still boast star players.

Marie and I enjoyed free accommodation at Port Vendres, to the south of Perpignan, thanks to a former France under-16 league rep who is now a magistrate in Marseille. He supports the Roosters in the NRL and is obviously a man of good taste.

From Perpignan, we travelled to Carcassonne where the new coach is Laurent Garnier, a former Catalans’ player, who married an Aussie lass and lived for two years in Brisbane, where he was a member of Wynnum-Manly’s coaching staff.

Laurent was also instrumental in getting exciting young French forward Ben Garcia a run with Wynnum, and ultimately an under-20s contract with the Broncos.

Ben is back in France and is going great guns at the Dragons.

In Carcassonne I visited the Albert Domec Stadium, which is shared by the local league and union clubs.

Taking pride of place at the northern end of the ground is a statue of the most famous French league player of all time Puig Aubert.

Catalans hooker Eloi Pelissier and Steve at Gilbert Brutus Stadium.

Steve comes across a passionate league man and Catalans staffer, Christian.

Aubert is the only league player to have won the French Sports Star of the Year Award - ahead of soccer stars, union internationals, athletes, cyclists and tennis players. My father and grandfather saw him play on France’s all-conquering tour of Australia in 1951, and I had the privilege of meeting him in Carcassonne in 1978.

Despite Aubert’s legendary status, and the fact Australian and New Zealand touring sides have played in Carcassonne on a regular basis, union draws bigger crowds, and recent stadium upgrades came about because the union ‘demanded’ better facilities.

The league guys change and prepare at one end of the main grandstand, and the union guys at the other end. I inspected both dressing rooms, and union has the best facilities, although not by much it must be said.

Laurent Garnier hopes to bring a new level of professionalism to the club, and to get the community more involved. Garnier has a hard working, enthusiastic board of directors and a strong team of volunteers behind him.

Bar le Rugby is no more, but Bar Felix still operates and is a league stronghold. On the wall behind the bar, is the business card of 1986 Kangaroo tourist Bryan Niebling, a recent visitor.

Carcassonne coach Laurent Garnier

In Villeneuve I met many business people who have thrown small fortunes at the club, trying to ensure it remains competitive. Rene Verdier, a local journalist, gave me a copy of his book on the history of league in the town.

I know this is wishful thinking, but it would be an absolute sensation to see Australian clubs, whether at NRL or Queensland Cup and NSW Cup level, form partnerships with the French clubs, even if it was only to the extent of sponsoring a player, or sending coaching aids.

League people in France need to know they are not fighting the good fight without any acknowledgement.

They are the most passionate league people in the world, even to the extent of barracking against France in union, given the many injustices wrought on the 13man game.

The French league people don’t need reminding that our game is the superior ‘rugby’ but they would be heartened by the enthusiastic words from the likes of the Parisian waiter and the Canadian bar owner.

But words are not enough and one wonders where league in France will be when it celebrates its centenary.

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NRL 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.

In August NRL Welfare and Education celebrated the academic achievements of our game’s elite players who have been able to show commitment not only to their footy, but also their futures by committing to the pursuit of higher education.

In 2008 we had 68 players attending university in the NRL and NYC, and at the start of the 2014 season we had 220 players enrolled. With similar trends in the uptake of players doing apprenticeships we have now tried to focus on the completion of these programs.

With the support of the ARL Commission we were able to employ a career coach at every club to try and ensure that firstly the players were choosing the right programs, and secondly they were getting enough support to assist them in completing.

Combining this support this is an increase in extra funds for university tuition to now total $800k and an apprentice mentoring program. We hope the players will not only be able to achieve their rugby league dreams but also walk away from the playing field with educational qualifications and work experience that will make them very employable in the future.

The game’s career development program was given the highest stamp of approval when the Career Development Association of Australia awarded the NRL the Employer of the Year Award for Excellence in career development. For a sport in Australia to achieve this award was a major achievement and the welfare and education team at the NRL and the NRL clubs should be congratulated.

The NRL Welfare and Education Graduates of League Program is thriving. It makes a real difference for NRL players pursuing their academic goals as they are able to access weekly tutoring in their subjects. We have 16 institutions that have partnered with the NRL to run this program with 220 players currently undertaking studies at the campuses.

2014 NRL-RLPA ACADEMIC TEAM OF THE YEAR

BRONCOS TODD LOWRIE Cert IV in Project Management & Cert IV in Small Business Capital Training Institute & Arouni Tech BULLDOGS DALE FINUCANE

Bachelor of Health and Movement Australian College of Physical Education

RAIDERS DAVID SHILLINGTON

Bachelor of Business, University of Canberra

COWBOYS BRENT TATE

Cert IV Frontline Management Cert IV Small Business, Skill 360 “For me, having a conversation with Wayne Bennett a few years ago made me realise the importance of getting an education. It was not long after that I started to get the wheels in motion in terms of studying. As a result I am feeling more prepared to enter the workforce.”

SEA EAGLES TOM SYMONDS

Graduated Bachelor of Health Exercise Science University of NSW

SEA EAGLES BRENTON LAWRENCE

Bachelor of Arts in International studies (completed) Certificates III and IV in Training Australian Institute of Workforce Development

STORM RYAN HOFFMAN

Bachelor of Business, Open Universities

KNIGHTS ROBBIE ROCHOW

Degree in Civil Engineering, University of Newcastle

PANTHERS JEREMY LATIMORE

Bachelor of Commerce, University of Wollongong 46

MEN OF LEAGUE SEPTEMBER 2014

PANTHERS RYAN SIMPKINS

PANTHERS JOSHJUA TANGITAU

Diploma in Hydraulics Design Qualified Plumber, St Leonards TAFE

Degree in Exercise Sports Science Australian Catholic University

DRAGONS JASON NIGHTINGALE

SHARKS BEN CHAHOUD

Bachelor of Business Degree, Uni of Wollongong

Carpentry Apprenticeship with Bronson Construction

WARRIORS SILIVA HAVILI

RABBITOHS CHEYNE WHITELAW

RABBITOHS JASON CLARK

Degree in Law, University of Wollongong

Bachelor of Health Science - Podiatry Auckland University of Technology

Bachelor of Exercise Physiology, University of NSW

DRAGONS ADAM CLUNE

Cert III Fitness and Cert IV in Small Business Australian Institute of Fitness & Elite training company Qualified Carpenter “I was overwhelmed when I was told about gaining a place on the Academic Team of the Year. I know there are a lot of guys in the NRL that do plenty of work away from the game - some are even making time to get to uni. To be put in the same category as them is great.”

This year we introduced four new awards and included a Holden Cup Academic Team of the Year. This team celebrates the achievements of the game’s future players. The university attendance numbers in the NYC has continued to increase year by year and sits at close to 140 players enrolled in Bachelor or Diploma studies with a wide range of specialties from exercise sciences and teaching to nursing and law. 25 percent of players in the 2014 NYC are studying at university.

2014 HOLDEN CUP ACADEMIC TEAM OF THE YEAR

WARRIORS MASON LINO

Bachelor of Business Auckland University of Technology

WESTS TIGERS NATHAN MILONE

Bachelor of Business, University of Technology Sydney

TRADESMAN OF THE YEAR BRONCOS AARON ROCKLEY

Qualified Carpenter All Trades Queensland Currently employed by Brett Walters

MENTOR OF THE YEAR AWARD ADAM BRIDESON

State Manager KPD Former NRL player with Bulldogs

PASIFIKA ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE AWARD

BULLDOGS ADAM ELLIOTT

Bachelor of Applied Science (physiotherapy), Sydney Uni

The NRL Pasifika Academic Excellence Award which was presented to two NRL players of Pasifika heritage who have excelled and demonstrated a long term commitment to rugby league, academia and Pasifika outreach.

RAIDERS ANDREW HEFFERNAN

Bachelor of Sports Coaching & Exercise Science University of Canberra

This scholarship will be in partnership with the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), one of the most reputable US institutions in regards to Pacific Islander studies and Pasifika outreach.

COWBOYS COREY JENSEN

WARRIORS JEROME ROPATI

Bachelor of Nursing, Griffith University

TITANS MITCH SHARP

Diploma in Business & Bachelor of Health Auckland University of Technology NZ University Blues Award winner 2008 Warriors education committee member & ambassador

SEA EAGLES JACK DELANEY

BULLDOGS SAM PERRETT

Degree in Sport & Exercise Science, James Cook

Bachelor of Business & Commerce, Western Sydney

STORM CHRISTIAN WELCH

Bachelor Commerce degree, Melbourne University

KNIGHTS LACHLAN FITZGIBBON

Bachelor of Construction Management University of Newcastle

Diploma in Management Cert IV Building and Construction Qualified Builder Owns and runs construction company “Trade-Up with the NRL” apprentice mentor.

NRL Education Ambassador 2012-2014 NRL Pasifika Players Advisory group

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LEAGUE’S EVERYWHERE MAN

H

BY BARRY ROSS

e’s a familiar face around NRL stadiums. One of the ‘ground managers’ who must ensure all is order on the sidelines and around the dressing rooms, both teams are on the field on time and the post-match media conferences are organised.

However, many who come across Bob Lanigan would not be aware of his impressive CV and vast travels within rugby league that has seen him enjoy fitness training positions with Parramatta, Wigan, Leeds, the Warriors and also with the New Zealand Test squad.

And that’s not the end of it.

‘Lano’ has worked with some of the best athletes in rugby league, rugby union and boxing. And as a classy winger, back in the days when Newtown were in the top flight, he also has the honour of being the competition’s leading points-scorer.

Fit and active beyond his years, Lanigan remembers fondly growing up just a kilometre from the Sydney Cricket Ground and playing for Chelsea United as a

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boy. He was called into grade with Newtown in 1965 and as a 23-year-old winger the next season finished on top of the individual point scoring list with 185 from three tries and 88 goals.

There were some pretty handy goal-kickers behind him including Keith Barnes, Bob Batty, Eric Simms and Graeme Langlands.

In his four seasons at Henson Park, Lanigan played 68 first grade games, scoring 462 points from 11 tries, 211 goals and seven field goals. In 1969, he captaincoached Griffith to the premiership and then played at Dapto, Erina and Macquarie United before retiring at the end of the 1974 season.

Living on the Central Coast where he became a close friend of John Monie, he followed Monie to Parramatta in 1987 as his conditioning man for three seasons.

When Monie left for the champion Wigan club in 1990 he took Lanigan with him to do strength and conditioning training and they stayed for three English

Lanigan even delved into rugby union, working with former All Black John Kirwan in 1999 doing pre-season work with the NEC club in Japanese rugby.

Five years later he went to Wales to supervise the Newport Gwent Dragons pre-season training, when Chris Anderson switched to the dark side for a year.

winters, winning three Challenge Cups and three championships.

Monie returned home at the end of the 1992-93 season but Lanigan stayed in England, where he joined Leeds for two years, before reuniting inaugural Auckland Warriors coach Monie in 1995 for three seasons.

While living and working in New Zealand, Lanigan worked with Kiwi Test coach Frank Endicott for five years, finishing after the 2000 World Cup. “I feel very fortunate not only for the places I and [wife] Glenda and have been able to live and work but the people I’ve met and great memories on and off the field,” Lanigan said.

www.menofleague.com

Legendary boxing trainer John Lewis and Lanigan have been close friends since their childhood days and Lewis employed his mate as his corner man with world champions Jeff Fenech, Kostya Tszyu and Virgil Hill.

He’s now into his 16th season in the job, outlasting all but fellow long-serving key man Peter Denning.

As a ground manager he has worked at Test matches, State of Origin games, grand finals, City-Country fixtures and hundreds of club rounds.

“When a chance came to apply for a position as NRL ground manager in 1999, I jumped at the opportunity to remain involved in the NRL. I still love rugby league and the people it breeds.”

Few have covered the miles and roles of Bob Lanigan and, with a heart full of passion and energy, he’s not ready to pack it in yet.

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TEMORA DRAGONS CENTENARY

BY FRED MEALE

I

t’s a famous club with a long, rich and proud history and this year the Temora Dragons will celebrate a century of memories both on and off the field.

Come November three starring players of yesteryear will be celebrated at a special function to commemorate the club’s historic milestone.

At 101, Jim Woods, his brother, 96 year old Tom and former captain-coach from 1950, 96-year-old Lew Evans, will be the special guests of our evening.

Jim started with the Temora Independent Newspaper then progressed to the Crookwell Gazette and finally finished his career with the Queanbeyan Age. Temora product Trent Barrett.

Jim, a likeable character yet a humble man, is the father of Ken Woods who has represented Australia at the Commonwealth Games in lawn bowls.

Tom Woods, a jovial and lovable man who often ‘stirs the pot’ with skiting about his success, will no doubt be relying on his warm sense of humour when he attends the function. Tom, a bootmaker

FOUNDATION LINKS WITH SCHOOLBOYS

M

en of League Foundation was prominent at this year’s Australian Schoolboys national championships, the rugby league carnivals that are often the springboard to NRL careers for some of the country’s finest teenage talent.

At the 15 years titles in Tamworth in late June the local Men of League committee volunteered to man the gate, and did a fine job for the five days of the tournament. In return, Men of League received a cut of the gate takings and also ran a raffle, which was drawn on finals day.

The week’s activity, with committee members mingling all week, revitalised the committee and the men who are part of it and prompted them to make plans for more fundraising activities.

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who learnt his trade at Brooks’ Bootmaker and Shoe Repairs, prided himself on mastering the skill of making the famous hob nail boots.

Evans swapped the coastal life in Newcastle for the country serenity of Temora during his time in the Air Force where he worked as a pilot instructor at 10 Elementary Flying Training School in Temora.

As his time in the air force drew to an end, Lew left the tight knit community of Temora and went on to play for St George where he captained the side in a few games.

But the country life lured him back as captain-coach in 1950 and has never looked back – still calling Temora home 64 years later.

To mark this memorable occasion, the Temora Rugby League Football Club with host a gathering at the bowling club on the Friday night and then to the exservices club on Saturday.

On the Sunday morning there will be a recovery barbecue to celebrate the ten decades of football success from the club’s committee, to our fans, supporter, sponsors and of course our players.

In a community where the membership to Men of League is significant, this night will not only celebrate our three special guests but everyone who has taken the club from what it was then to where it is today.

There will be a video celebrating our wonderful 100 years of the greatest game of all.

The national opens (18 years) titles were held in Darwin (Palmerston) just over a week later in July. The Australian Secondary Schools Rugby League bought a pair of Men of League socks for each player who participated and each of the six teams was allocated a game in which they wore the socks.

Match officials wore the socks in the final also, which meant that Men of League was promoted visually in each of those games, as well as through announcements at the ground and at the players’ dinner.

This allowed for great exposure for the Foundation amongst the players and their attending families.

The ASSRL is keen to continue the relationship with Men of League and felt privileged to support the Foundation in these ways.

GLADIATOR NORM ON RECOVERY ROAD

BY TONY DURKIN

R

ugby league icon Norm Provan is finally home after an extended stay in a private hospital on the Sunshine Coast.

The giant of the game – in stature and in reputation – passed out while walking his dog late one June afternoon, and fell and struck his head on the concrete path. As a result he suffered some mobility issues.

He was initially admitted to a private hospital in Caloundra then transferred to the Sunshine Coast Private Hospital at Buderim where he underwent specialist care, including intense physiotherapy twice daily. He remained a patient for almost a month and although frustrated at being hospitalised he described the accommodation, attention and care as “absolutely first class”.

Provan, who turns 83 in December, is regarded as one of the greatest rugby league players and coaches of all time, and an ornament to the game on and off the field.

He is a stalwart of the Men of League organisation and patron of the Sunshine Coast committee.

He played in 10 of the record 11 successive premierships won by the mighty St George Dragons from 1956 to 1966, and was captain-coach in four. His record of 256 games for the Red V was surpassed two years ago by Ben Hornby. The big second-rower also played 14 Tests for Australia and 19 games for NSW, and in 2008 was named in the Australian Team of the Century.

“I am okay, and I thank all those wonderful folk who have shown their concern for me” But in more recent times Provan has become better known as a Gladiator, with the famous post grandfinal mud-caked image of him embracing Western Suburbs captain Arthur Summons immortalised atop the NRL premiership trophy. And last year, on the 50th anniversary of the celebrated image being taken, the NRL renamed the trophy Provan-Summons Trophy.

Provan and his wife Lindy have called the Sunshine Coast home for the past 25 years and recently moved from their property at Mooloolah to Golden Beach, where the accident occurred. Sadly his 12-year-old dog Bugsy, whom he was walking at the time, has since passed away.

While appreciating that people were concerned for his health, in his typical understated style the rugby league great asked that his privacy be respected while he was hospitalised.

“I am okay, and I thank all those wonderful folk who have shown their concern for me,” he said. “But for the sake of the hospital and the busy staff here who do such a wonderful job, I would be grateful if they are not distracted by phone calls and visitors.”

Norm Provan recently visited long-time adversary, Kel O’Shea, who is also experiencing ill health. They are pictured together above.

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BUSH HEROES A QLD SPORTING HERO LOST TO WAR Peter Hickey was a young man from Toowoomba with exceptional all-round sporting ability but, like too many others, his life was cut short by war.

BY GREG SHANNON

Australian squad to play England in the second Test in Brisbane.

A non-playing reserve for Australia, he was joined by fellow Queensland and future Courier Mail sports writer Jack Reardon. The 1936 Australian side, led by Dave Brown, was dominated by Sydney Easts players and included some great names like Vic Hey, Wally Prigg, Jack Beaton, Ernie Norman, Les Heidke and Ray Stehr.

Hickey represented Queensland until 1937, and played nine times for his state.

The 1936 Australian team with Peter Hickey in the back row, fourth from left.

P

eter Hickey was an outstanding rugby league player and one of many who served with distinction in the RAAF during war time only to lose his life and remain in our annals as a hero whose career capacity was never fulfilled.

Born in Toowoomba, Hickey was a keen sportsman who excelled in the rugby codes, golf and cricket.

A champion rugby union player at Brisbane’s Nudgee College, he played league after returning to Toowoomba to work in the family hotel business and also made a name as a golfer and representative cricketer.

In 1934 he had represented Toowoomba in the Bulimba Cup and the following year was selected for Queensland against NSW. That same year he was part of a South Queensland side to tour North Queensland.

A tireless forward, his nickname ‘Handsome’ perhaps belied his on-field toughness and determination.

In 1936 Hickey moved with his family to Brisbane to take over the York Hotel in Queen Street, a grand old hotel that once stood where the Brisbane Myer centre now sits.

Joining the Brisbane Brothers club Hickey’s on-field success skyrocketed when he not only held his spot in the 1936 Queensland side but was also selected in the

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Then war came in September 1939 and he left Australia to train in Canada as part of an enormous air crew training scheme set up by the Allies known as the Empire Training Scheme, that included thousands of young men from Australia, New Zealand, India, South Africa, Canada, and Rhodesia (now called Zimbabwe) training to be air crew. They were allotted to squadrons based in the UK to fly missions against Germany in what became known as Bomber Command.

After pilot training, in 1941 Hickey was assigned to 458 RAAF squadron based in Holmes-on-Spalding Moor air base in East Yorkshire, flying the famous Wellington bomber with a crew of six.

In December 1941 Hickey and four members of his crew survived being shot down, parachuting to safety over England. Newspapers from Brisbane to Cairns carried the story of his survival. However weeks later, on January 8, 1942, Wellington bomber R1785, piloted by flying officer Hickey, failed to return from a mission against German-occupied naval bases near Cherbourg, France.

In 1944 Peter’s parents, distraught by the loss of their son, and with the uncertainty of what actually happened to him and his crew, honoured him by donating a trophy known as the Peter Hickey Cup to be played between the first grade leaders at the end of the second round in the Brisbane Rugby League competition.

But what happened to Peter and his crew remained a mystery until 2006 when an Air France pilot, Georges Donnebouy, who had grown up on a farm near Colomby, Normandy, joined three French historians in studying the fate of allied aircraft lost in the war in that part of France.

They found, from eyewitness reports, that Hickey’s aircraft was shot down by German anti-aircraft fire and was on fire when it crashed into a snow covered orchard near the Donnebouy farm. All on board were killed and the next day the Germans buried them with full military honours.

This remained unknown to the crew’s family until 2008 when a ring, with the initials of one of the crew William Wallace Forgan from South Australia, was discovered among the few remains of the aircraft. With much excitement at discovering who the crew were, Georges made contact with the families and visited Australia to meet their descendants.

He was quoted at the time as saying: “It is out of respect and gratitude to these young people who came from faraway lands that we carried out this research.

We hope that a memorial to the crew of R1785 and for the many pilots and crews, who perished in the air, and on the ground of Cotentin, will be raised to honour those who died to return our freedom to us.”

That same year a memorial was built on the site believed to the crash zone of the plane piloted by Hickey.

It is hard to imagine the anguish of parents not knowing what happened to their son, and the trophy they donated in his honour must have filled the void of his loss in some small way. Who knows what Peter or

The crew of R1785, possibly just days before their disappearance: (from left) Fred Hinton (UK ), Bob Birnie ( NZ), Peter Hickey, Albert Austin (UK), Vic Johnstone (Victoria), Wally Forgan (South Australia).

the many thousands of servicemen killed could have achieved if they had survived.

The Peter Hickey Cup existed into the 1950s. Hickey had achieved much on the sporting field, especially rugby league. He gave up a promising sporting career and a family business to answer the call to arms and paid the ultimate sacrifice at 28 years of age.

The author’s uncle, Evan Frederick Shannon, was also a member of the RAAF and trained under the Empire Training scheme in World War II. A stockmen from Western Queensland, his aircraft failed to return from battle, with the crew all believed to be killed, in the final weeks of the war. He was 22.

If any members of the Hickey family read this, the author would love to make contact with them.

PHOTO ON LEFT: The 1936 Australiam team: -Back row: Jack Reardon, Jim Gibbs (both reserves), Bert Gray (selector), Peter Hickey, Fred Gilbert (both reserves). 3rd row: Frank Curran, Jack Beaton. 2nd row: Vic Hey, Arch Crippin, Les Heidke, Joe Pearce, Alan Ridley, Ray Stehr.

Seated: Harry Sunderland (selector), Ernie Norman, Dave Brown (capt), Wally Webb (manager), Wally Prigg, Percy Fairall, Alf Latta (selector). Front: Vic Thicknesse.

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PROUD OF MY DAD

Porter and Burns that were held in high regard by an opposition team for their toughness and unique ability to win a ball when scrums were scrums to be contested.

A New South Wales jumper was earned through sheer toughness and talent in 1948. Dad was voted best on the ground in the annual NSW-Queensland clash yet still missed out on being selected for the Kangaroo tour of that year.

EDDIE BURNS

BY ELAINE GAIR Rugby League was the passion of my father Eddie Burns’ life.

Rugby League, a working class man’s game, was a chance to fulfil and pursue a dream. And his dream was to play for Canterbury-Bankstown, which he did from 1935-1950.

Dad served one club, Canterbury-Bankstown, as a player and coach.

As a 19-year old he was thrust into first grade and had an embarrassing start, sent off in his first game. Of course he said: “It wasn’t me it was the other bloke’s fault, he had his head in the wrong spot.”

But 238 games later, a club record that stood for 30 years, he was undoubtedly a Canterbury legend.

He played in premiership winning teams, in 1938 and 1942, scored four tries in a match, a feat for a front-rower that still hasn’t been equalled even in the modern game. Of course he is well-known as part of a fearless front row combination of (Roy) Kirkaldy, (Henry)

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After retiring and being chaired off the field by Newtown’s hard man Bumper Farrell in his last game in 1950, he gave back to his beloved Berries what he got out of the game, becoming a successful coach of Canterbury’s first grade side from 1960-62 [making the finals in his first year].

He was a successful coach, particularly of some star-studded NSW teams in the 1960s, and was also manager of the Australian team that toured New Zealand in 1965 and president of Canterbury Rugby League Club long before Peter Moore came along. He was a man who put his soul into the Berries as they were then known, a pioneer who laid the foundations for the successful club it is today.

He was a director of New South Wales Rugby League Club for many years and was made a life member, and he was granted the Australian Sports Medal in recognition of his services to rugby league.

Later he coached a local Guildford side when he was living there, and when he retired to Forster he coached the local Forster side. His passion was rugby league.

He was a simple man of simple tastes; loved a drink and loved a bet. He had the ability to make anyone laugh, didn’t have tickets on himself and was pretty short with people who did. He was certainly loyal to his mates and his beloved Canterbury-Bankstown.

NOTE: Eddie Burns died in June 2003, aged 87.

COMMITTEE NEWS BUNDABERG

TOWNSVILLE

At last we can confirm the guest list for our annual sportsman’s dinner to be held at the Brothers Sports Club on Friday 24 October. At the time of writing this column, all tickets had been sold three months in advance and the night promises to be great.

A Kick Off Club was held at Brothers Club on 18 July so that delegates could report to members on the outcomes of the national conference held at the Burleigh Bears Club on 3-4 June. Areas highlighted were the current structure of staff, changes made to membership and merchandise availability, communication improvements, welfare and fundraising.

BY BARRY BUCHANAN, VICE-PRESIDENT

BY TERRY DODD, PRESIDENT

MC for the night will be Tony Durkin and our guest speaker will be Wayne Bennett (newly appointed coach for the Broncos), along with Ben Ikin and Paul Kent (from Fox Sports) doing a ‘360’ segment Bundy style. A door raffle and memorabilia auction will be available on the night as well as a sit down two-course dinner as part of the ticket cost for a table for 10.

The Men of League Rugby League Day was held on Saturday 16 August and all senior grades wore the Men of League socks to support the association. The Bundaberg Rugby League Club held a triple header on the day and the local association donated a Men of League shirt and free membership to each grade’s player of the match.

Finally, the last Full Time Club night will take place on 21 November at Salter Oval. We invite all members to come along and have Christmas drinks with the committee. It will be a great night with some great yarns told and you may catch up with some football buddies!

The gathering was held on the new outdoor extension called the Sin Bin, an aptly-named venue for a few who were there, without mentioning any names. Where else can you have a beer when you’re in the Sin Bin? It was a pleasure to meet new Brothers CEO Justin Wilkins and renew contact with Debbie Keelan and Matt O’Keefe. Many thanks for their generous support as well as from Lion sales executive Glen Cummins.

After recently receiving a list of over 700 members for our area which extends from Bowen to Ingham and west to Mount Isa, it is obvious that our contact data has to be updated. To stay in touch, please advise of your detail changes, especially your mobile phone number and email address. Members who joined some years ago might like to confirm their current information. You can phone or SMS Barry Peters on 0419 730 792 or email Barry Buchanan on c.buchanan@bigpond.com.

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At the time of writing, our events sub-committee are busy organising a grand final luncheon, which will take place on 1 October and our annual bowls day which will be on 15 November. Further details will be sent out and placed on the events calendar when these two events are finalised.

(from, left) Mark at Widnes with Frank Myler and Tony Karalius

Once again, if you are a Men of League member, reside in Canberra Monaro and have not yet advised us of your contact details, please make yourself known to our secretary Sue on 0406 378 086. Having your contact details will allow you to receive all the correspondence from your local committee.

CANBERRA MONARO

BY NOEL BISSETT, PRESIDENT Mark Lynch, our committee welfare officer, travelled to England in June for a sad mission. Mark and his wife Sheila lost their daughter in a car accident and decided to take some of her ashes over to be interned in Hertfordshire with her English family.

Thankfully, their trip was not without some happiness as Mark has established many strong friendships during his rugby league career. Whenever he heads over to the ‘Old Dart’, he travels up to Widnes to meet up with the English branch. The impressive list includes Tony Karalius (St Helens, Wigan and Great Britain) and brother of Vince ‘Wild Bull’ Karalius, Bob Blackwood (Widnes), David Owen (Warrington), Jim Mills (Widnes, North Sydney, Great Britain and Wales) and Frank Myler, the victorious captain of Great Britain’s 1970 Ashes winning team and coach of the 1984 Ashes team that toured Australia and New Zealand. All of his mates were impressed with the Men of League merchandise Mark took with him including: caps, golf balls, ties and polo shirts.

NSW state manager Stuart Raper paid our committee a visit on 26 May, giving us an overview of his role and the structure of the Men of League national office. Our committee really appreciated Stuart’s visit.

At our meeting held in May, Jason Mathie, the commercial and marketing manager from the Raiders, attended and advised us that the Raiders fully supported the work of the Men of League and are happy to reinforce our fundraising efforts. On 20 June, the Raiders played the Bulldogs and before the match, the Raiders held a 20th anniversary dinner to celebrate their grand final win against the Bulldogs in 1994. Our committee was invited to join forces and promote the dinner, which was an eventful evening as past players had many jovial stories to tell. The Raiders also agreed to donate two commemorative jerseys to be auctioned with the proceeds donated to the Men of League. We are very appreciative of the support the Raiders have given us.

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Men of League Central Coast members enjoying their day at Gosford Race Club

CENTRAL COAST

BY DENNIS TOMSETT, PUBLICITY OFFICER Sadly on 13 June, our long-serving welfare officer, Neville Charlton OAM, passed away after battling the effects of a stroke he suffered earlier this year. Neville was heavily involved in the local community, providing entertainment for residents at aged care facilities.

He also enjoyed his role of welfare officer and loved helping cheer up those in need.

A members night was held at the Central Coast Leagues Club on 30 May. Eighty members attended the function and all enjoyed the opportunity to catch up with old mates and meet other members. Men of League’s welfare manager and education manager Ben Ross and NSW state manager Stuart Raper attended the night, mixing with the members and responding to their questions. Many thanks to Ben and Stuart who took the time and contributed on the night.

Our annual race day was held in July and was very successful. This is the fifth year in a row we have held this event and we had a record number of 262 people

attend. It was a very successful fundraising day and we greatly appreciate the support of the Gosford Race Club and our MC, Reg Delaney, for his services in helping to make this day a great success.

Many thanks to our race sponsors: The Coast and Country Insurance, The Grange Hotel, Erina Rugby League Football Club, The Glason Group, The Entrance Leagues Club, Brisbane Water Glass, Pearce’s Plastering and Gosford Motors.

Our next event is the golf day at Shelley Beach on 26 September.

SOUTHERN SYDNEY

BY TERRY HUGHES, PRESIDENT The Sylvania Bowling Club turned on an excellent lunch to ensure the crowd of over 150 people enjoyed the Medal Winners Tribute Lunch Friday 13 June with everyone enjoying large plates of prawns as entrées donated by Reg Richards and Faros Bros Seafoods.

We would like to thank a number of our very generous sponsors who provided raffle prizes ensuring a positive fundraising result. Harvey Norman provided a prize for the raffle and a number of memorabilia items used in the auction. Carlton also made a donation to lubricate the attendees.

Greg McCallum again proved to be a very capable MC, conducting a number of informative interviews with Gavin Miller, Barry Russell and Brett Kimmorley and I also managed to get a mention, along with an international boxing referee who was in the crowd.

Foley Shield Footballers enjoy FNQ Race Day. L-R Paul Fowler, Troy Cummings, Craig Cygler, Jamie McIntosh, Barry Jansen, John McAllister and Bruce Slade

FAR NORTH QUEENSLAND

BY KEV MAHER, PUBLICITY OFFICER Men of League Far North Queensland conducted a successful race day at Cannon Park in Cairns on 21 June with several hardy souls staying on to watch the Northern Pride match at Barlow Park. Several former Foley Shield players were among the gathering and their exploits got better as the afternoon wore on.

Also in attendance were Kevin Hogan, John Maguire and John ‘Bomber’ Peard who massaged our funny bones to close out an enjoyable day. Due to this year’s success, we are looking forward to another luncheon at the Sylvania Bowling Club next year.

Northies offered to hold a dinner and raffle on the night of the third State of Origin game, a portion of the funds raised were given to Men of League. Despite short notice, the night proved to be a success and may become an annual event in the future.

WESTERN SYDNEY

BY LES CLARK AND GARRY O’DONNELL

Rugby league in the Far North lost a couple of household names in recent months with the passing of Muriel Mulley and Brian Bolton. The Mulley name is synonymous with the Brothers Club in Cairns, Bob is their long serving president and many of the family have worn the famous butchers stripes over the years.

As mentioned recently, our welfare officers Kevin Corbett, Noel Willick and John Billings will repair former Leeds player Frank Halliwell’s front fence to stop the fence collapsing. We also want to thank Kevin Wise for joining our welfare group.

Brian Bolton was one of the most outstanding all-round sportspeople that the Far North has seen. He played Foley Shield football, the Bulimba Cup for Ipswich and coached in the Burdekin. Brian was also an outstanding player on the cricket field and represented Cairns and Queensland Country on numerous occasions. Men of League’s sympathies go out to both of the families.

After our successful golf day we had the Graham Murray tribute lunch at Cabramatta Leagues Club, where 240 people attended. It was a great event with Graham’s wife Amanda and daughter Cara our special guests. Thanks to Steve Gillis, John Peard and Paul McGregor for their time and effort.

Lastly, our committee is busy preparing for the PM’s XIII visit to Cairns as they pass through on their way to Port Moresby.

Thanks also to our committee for winning the State of Origin membership challenge and great work

by Alan Keating who signed over 30 new members in one day.

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TWEED DISTRICT

ILLAWARRA

Men of League Tweed District held its 10th annual golf day on Friday 2 May 2014. With a full field of players signed up, all were looking forward to another terrific day. The early morning crew arrived around 6am to set up the barbeque for breakfast. Despite light drizzle and heavy cloud the mood was light-hearted and cheerful.

Men of League Illawarra held their annual bowls day at Warilla Bowling Club in July with 250 bowlers in attendance. We want to thank Ray Smiles, Bill Robinson and Freddy Jones for organising and running the day so successfully and also congratulate Phil Kipp and Trevor Wells for their efforts on behalf of Warilla Bowling Club.

BY TOM CASSIN, TREASURER

6.30am saw the skies open as heavy thunder and huge lightning drenched the crew and sent them looking for whatever shelter was available. Players started arriving looking doubtful as to whether the day would go on.

Assurances from Russ Davis and his staff in the pro shop that the radar said the rain would be gone by hit off time of 8am appeared optimistic at best.

Nevertheless the day went on. Come hit off the rain had stopped, the sky had lightened considerably and we were off and hitting.

The day was a huge success with over $8000 being raised thanks to the generosity of our many hole and nearest the pins sponsors and prize donors for both the golf and the raffle. Over the 10 golf days that have been run, a total of over $74,000 has been raised.

Winners on the day were the trio of Arthur Sauverain, Jeff Emery and Barry Hamilton. Runners up were B Lowther, M Barjno, N Scholtas and D Pitt followed by S Evans, D Skrinis, P Mitchell and W Howlett. The much sought after NAGA awards went to Marty Gurr’s Group, Mark Dawson’s crew and Terry Gale’s team.

Many thanks to KooGa for their continued support and to our hole sponsors, Tallebudgera SLSC Supporters Club who have been with us every year, Cudgen League, SeeCivil, Kirra Beach Hotel, Border Brick & Block Laying, Rainbow Bay Realty, Seagulls, Accent on Stone, Tile Trends, Techrite Controls, Masterbooth, and Prosperity IQ. Nearest the pin sponsors were Tallebudgera SLSC Supporters, Rachel Hetherington, Omega Gas Service, Gas & Coffee, and K & R Sales. The Long Drive sponsor was Tweed Coast Tours & Charter while the straight drive was sponsored by Type B Gas. Thanks also to our many prize donors and to Golf Pro, Russ Davis and his staff, the ground staff for their course presentation, those responsible for the lunch, bar staff and Coolangatta and Tweed Heads Golf Course and to our own volunteers for their great breakfast efforts under very trying conditions.

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BY PETER FITZGERALD, PRESIDENT

Illawarra defeated Newcastle in the CRL Championships. Illawarra’s outstanding secondhalf defence was the major factor in retention of the championship. Coach Gavin Clinch is credited with moulding a great team spirit which produced this defensive effort for his second year in charge of the representative squad. Illawarra Division chairman of selectors Ian Neil was full of praise for the efforts of the coach and the players. “The entire squad did Illawarra proud. It’s always great to beat Newcastle in a CRL final,” he said.

Despite the great Country Championship final win, it is very disappointing that Illawarra only gained six representatives in the CRL touring squad to play two matches in Hawaii during July. The notable omissions were hard-working Helensburgh forward Blake Phillips and his ‘Burgh’ teammate, Jarrod Boyle.

Congratulations to those selected: Eamon Hillen (Helensburgh), Blake Williamson (Collies), Jarrod Thompson (Collies), Sam Clune (Thirroul), Jacob Hind (Corrimal) and Nathan Smith (Corrimal).

Greater Southern region let their northern cousins know whose boss with an electrifying 10-try blitz in NSW Country tier two final at Tamworth. Adding to Illawarra’s success over Newcastle in the tier one final, Greater Southern destroyed North Coast 50-6 to claim the tier two championship.

Six star players were rewarded with selection in the tier two Country side, they included: Lett, Goodwin, Henry, Jono Dallas, Yileen Gordon and Damien Paulissen.

In addition, Illawarra has again dominated selection in the NSW women’s team to play Queensland at Leichhardt Oval on Saturday 19 July. Local champions Helensburgh gained five representatives: Keizer Apps, Ruby Ewe, Sam Hammond, Ruan Sims and Maddie Studdon. Corrimal’s Jennifer Latu is Illawarra‘s sixth rep.

See you at our functions and to get on our database contact: barryharle@7mail.com

Shortly after this the committee has joined together with the local NRL development unit to enter a team in the Bega Valley Relay for Life. Cancer touches the life of all of us in one way or another and the committee feels this is a good way to show support for those suffering from cancer.

Far South Coast committee president Terry Dickson and secretary Damian Kennedy showing their support for Duncan Waters and his family at the fundraising event held in Tathra.

FAR SOUTH COAST

BY DAMIAN KENNEDY, SECRETARY Men of League Far South Coast has continued to prosper throughout 2014 and looks forward to a number of activities as it heads into the warmer months.

As the committee continues to grow, the local Group 16 competition has turned a corner and is also showing positive signs of growth. September will see a joint Men of League–Group 16 presentation dinner which will highlight the achievements of players and clubs throughout the group as well as the many different activities undertaken by the Men of League committee.

A recent highlight has been the committee’s support of Duncan Waters, a young man battling an aggressive cancer. A trivia night was run and supported by the Men of League in conjunction with the Tathra and Rugby League communities to help the family in their support of Duncan.

The annual bowls day, a regular and popular feature on the calendar, will take place at Club Sapphire in Merimbula on the Sunday prior to the Melbourne Cup. This has become a date that is now a regular feature on the calendar.

The committee is re-establishing its roving meetings and will head north to Narooma and west to Bemboka to have a committee meeting and information evening.

Early 2015 will see the Men of League golf day at Eden Gardens on 18 January. This event has grown rapidly in its short history, much to the credit of local support and sponsorship. The event is driven by Eden stalwart Col Clarke and is generously sponsored by Con Zurcas of the Eden Motor Group. Holiday makers are most welcome to participate in this great day.

Following the attendance at the annual conference, a number of new welfare initiatives are being undertaken.

The biggest ongoing challenge for the committee is identifying those in the area requiring assistance.

Continued support from local media sources, in particular Radio 2EC, greatly helps in continuing to keep a high profile of the foundation locally.

FRASER COAST

BY TREVOR LINDBERG, PUBLICITY OFFICER The launching of the inaugural In Touch Club will have been held by the time this latest magazine has gone to press and hopefully a positive response has been achieved. We urge all members and potential new members to support these social occasions to allow our committee to grow and achieve strong membership numbers to ensure a bright future. Please contact our new secretary, Vic Beardmore, on 0407 303 187 for more details.

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Our annual gala golf day was held recently at the Maryborough Golf Club with a full field in attendance and everyone involved enjoyed themselves, with both Tim Ashford and Lloyd Roberts captaining their teams to victory. Our appreciation goes to all concerned for making the day a great success. Incidentally, former Brisbane Easts and Brothers player Nigel Freemantle failed to threaten the judges at any stage throughout the competition.

The date has been set for our annual bowls day which is on Sunday 26 October at the Doon Villa Bowls Club in Maryborough. We are hoping that all Fraser Coast members and their friends are able to attend and meet up with some old foes and friends alike.

On a sad note we must acknowledge the recent passing of Kevin Rosin, father of former Maryborough Rovers, Maryborough and Wide Bay representative Mike Rosin. We also wish to extend our thoughts to the following rugby league stalwarts who are currently experiencing some medical hurdles, namely Margaret Weber, wife of Ted Weber (QRL life member), Kev Poulter (Maryborough Rovers, Maryborough, Wide Bay and QLD Country representative), Peter Hinds (Maryborough Brothers and Maryborough rep) and Trevor Elesbach (Gayndah, Maryborough Brothers, Wide Bay and Burleigh Bears). We wish them all a speedy and successful recovery.

NORTH COAST

BY PETER BARRETT, PRESIDENT We are very happy to have the great rugby league town of Grafton as a part of the North Coast committee. This year Grafton Ghosts and South Grafton Club have joined the Group 2 competition. The Ghosts have made a huge impression winning the minor premiership and are favourites for the premiership. We are hoping to set up a sub-committee after our successful Men of League ‘Man of the Match’ award.

It will be a big month in September for our committee with a sportsman luncheon in association with Business Development and Skybridge Finance at Park Beach Bowling Club on Friday 12 September. Our guest speaker will be the winning former rugby league premiership player and coach and current Queensland State of Origin assistant coach, Michael Hagan.

Michael is also an ambassador for the Hunter Prostate Cancer Alliance.

September 21 will be our golf day at Coffs Harbour Golf Club with Stuart Raper in attendance and promises to be a great day out. Anyone wanting to play four-man Ambrose, please get in touch with the club.

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Friday 5 December has been set for our biggest day of the year at Coffs Harbour Race Club for our TAB luncheon. This always attracts a great following with outstanding guests hosted by Neil Pringle. Remember to get in early and make a weekend of it. Please contact the race club for tickets or accommodation recommendations.

We are also proud to announce local legend George Alaban as our newest committee patron.

NORTH WEST

BY KEVIN ROBINSON, SECRETARY A big thank you to all the Men of League volunteers who helped with manning the gate and running the raffle for the Australian 15 years schoolboys championships. We haven’t yet received a percentage of the gate money however the raffle did quite well.

The second prize, won by Brian Thompson, was a print of the five great league coaches. However, Brian donated it back as he is an avid rugby union supporter and thought it would look out of place amongst his union memorabilia.

Once again the Manilla sub-committee of Men of League North West came to the forefront holding their bowls day on 6 June. Whilst the weather was a bit chilly, it didn’t put a dampener on proceedings.

Special guests were John Quayle, Neville Glover (who supplied a number of items for the auction), Jim Leis, Ken Thompson and our president, Don Pascoe. Again, congratulations to the Manilla sub-committee and their band of supporters on a great day.

The Moree sub-committee has been going gangbusters since they formed their new committee with president Barry Smith, secretary Tony Woodham and committee members Geoff Greenaway, Bruce Thomson, Rod Schoupp, Robert Bailey and Brett Brazel.

On 3 August, they held a fundraiser for Men of League at the home game between the two Moree sides.

During the day, they organised a special Men of League jersey to be auctioned off and from all reports the day was a tremendous success and they also signed up another 16 members on the day.

On 11 October, we will be holding a gala dinner at West Leagues in Tamworth to celebrate Men of League North Wests volunteer of the year. Anyone wishing to attend can obtain tickets through the club by contacting 02 6765 7588.

Narrabri will also be holding their bowls day on 15 November.

Our next guest speaker was jockey Blake Shinn, who rode the Melbourne Cup winner Viewed in 2008.

RIVERINA

BY IAN LLOYD, SECRETARY Men of League Riverina has been busy lately conducting a successful ‘coathanger night’. It was held at the Riverina Hotel in Wagga and had 40 local members turn up for a few ales and a chat. Old stories, stretching the truth and a good laugh were the order of the night. Thank you to Steve and Joe at ‘The Riv’ for their hospitality and support. Anthony Dowdle from Tooheys donated $1200 towards the event which was well received by members and we thank him for his kind donation.

Treasurer Tom Looney attended a meeting at the Men of League Griffith sub-committee which held its first fundraising venture on 21 July in conjunction with the Griffith Ex-Services Club. It was a hugely successful launch raising in excess of $6000. A huge thank you to Jock McDonald who worked hard in the western area of the Riverina for Men of League. We are looking forward to signing up many new members in the Griffith, Leeton, Hay, Yenda, Narrandera areas of our region and are excited about working closely with Jock and our fellow members in Griffith.

Just a reminder that our bowls day at the Rules Club in Wagga will take place on Saturday 27 September.

Our Caulfield Cup race day will also be held on 18 October. Further details will be sent to members closer to these events happening. Contacts for Men of League Riverina are Tom 0417 230 417, Dave 0438 017 428 and Ian 0457 850384.

Well known former rugby league player, TV commentator and Men of League board member Ben Ikin told the audience some of his career highlights, including the time he was selected for the Queensland State of Origin team in 1995 at the age of 18. He was in the lift with coach, Paul ‘Fatty’ Vautin, and the coach didn’t recognise him. He also told the audience that his father-in-law Wayne Bennett is a very impressive leader.

Cricketer Greg ‘Mo’ Matthews was next on the stage and entertained the audience with jokes about Advance Hair Studio and some cricket stories.

Last speaker of a memorable day was AFL legend Kevin Sheedy who told the audience that this was the first time that he has ever spoken in a rugby league club, and that he felt honoured to be doing so. He also entertained the captive audience with many stories.

James Sullivan with Newcastle’s Robbie Rochow, Willie Mason and Jarrod Mullen

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

SYDNEY METRO

BY JAMES SULLIVAN, PRESIDENT

BY BRAD RYDER, MEDIA OFFICER Men of League Sydney Metropolitan, now in our fourth year, held its eighth successful luncheon at Souths Juniors on Friday 8 August. The theme for the day was Channel 9’s Wide World of Sports. MC Steve Gillis welcomed the large gathering and a video with Channel 9’s Ken Sutcliffe speaking was shown, telling the audience they are in for a special afternoon of entertainment from various sports identities.

John ‘Bomber’ Peard was first up on the stage entertaining the audience with his usual array of jokes and funny memories of his illustrious football career.

One classic line was that he likes these luncheons “because you run into people that used to run into you”.

Men of League chairman, Ron Coote then came on to the stage and thanked John for his efforts at countless functions, announcing that John will be made a Men of League honouree at this year’s gala dinner.

Men of League Western Australia were lucky enough to be entertained by Newcastle Knights trio Jarrod Mullen, Willie Mason and Robbie Rochow in a ‘What a Great Knight’ evening. Taking place during the teams’ recent bye, the crowd were spellbound by their stories for over three hours. A big thank you to all three for taking time out of their holiday and to the South Perth RLFC for hosting the event.

Our Men of League Western Australia Round was a great success with our gold coin donation from senior and junior clubs, players and supporters reaching into their pockets. A big thank you to the Western Australia Past Players Association for once again donating $1000 to the Men of League 2013 reunion. We are eagerly awaiting this year’s reunion which will be held at Fremantle RLFC, Ken Allen Field on Saturday 8 November from midday to 5pm. For more information, please visit warlpastplayers.com

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SUNSHINE COAST

BY TONY DURKIN, PUBLICITY OFFICER Limited spots are available for the historic Sunshine Coast Men of League golf day on Friday, 28 November. The event is significant because it will be the last held at Maroochydore’s Horton Park Golf Club.

Resumed by Sunshine Coast Regional Council for development of Maroochydore City Centre, the Horton Park course will be relocated north of Maroochydore in the New Year and renamed Maroochy River Golf Club.

Five of the seven Sunshine Coast MOL committee golf events have been staged at Horton Park.

thoughts on rugby league and horseracing. The night raised over $6000, largely due to the generous assistance provided by the Wyong District Rugby League Club and also included a $1500 donation, presented by the club chairman Kevin Pearce to our secretary Rod Wicks.

On a sad note, Ann Breen, wife of our patron Morry Breen, passed away in July. Ann was a tireless supporter of all Morry’s football and life endeavours.

Our sympathies go out to Morry and his family.

Finally, planning is now underway for our next function which will either be a christmas party-trivia luncheon in December.

While some playing opportunities exist - $150 per player, $580 per team - hole sponsorships ($1500) are readily available, and include a group of four players. Inquiries: Deanne Hagan (deanne.wynnum@helloworld.com.au) 07 3393 4000 or Mark Forbes (mark@goi.com.au) 0418 765 714.

An experienced rugby league administrator and a would-be official were the entertaining keynote guests at the past two Kick-Off Clubs at Mooloolaba Surf Club. itans chief executive Graham Annesley gave an interesting insight into the Gold Coast club at the June get-together while Brisbane Bombers NRL expansion bid team chairman, Craig Davison, spoke about his vision for a second NRL team, based in Brisbane, at the August event.

The final Kick-Off Club for the year is on Thursday, 9 October, with the annual Christmas luncheon Thursday, 11 December.

BACK ROW (left to right): Graham Collits, Chris Maher, Stan Watson, Dom Millauro. FRONT ROW (left to right): Con Moutevelis, Annette Hema, Stuart Raper, Bob Bell

NORTHERN SYDNEY

BY KEN VESSEY, WELFARE OFFICER Men of League Northern Sydney and the North Sydney Bears held their second gala function at the North Sydney Leagues Club on 15 August to honour nominated people from all of the North Sydney junior clubs and the North Sydney Referees Association for their tireless efforts and dedication in fostering rugby league.

It is only fitting that the nine nominated people should be presented with specially designed Men of League plaques because of their continued endeavours over many years in honing the skills of our junior players and assisting many in their advancement to higher rewards.

Kevin Pearce (left), chairman of Wyong Leagues Club Group, presenting a cheque for $1500 to secretary of Men of League Tuggerah Lakes, Rod Wicks.

TUGGERAH LAKES

BY GREG TUNN, PUBLICITY OFFICER On Friday 30 June, Men of League Tuggerah Lakes held a very successful State of Origin dinner at the Wyong Rugby League Club. Over 130 people attended and heard Ben Ross speak about his role as Men of League’s welfare and education manager, Cliff Lyons speak about his time in the State of Origin and his thoughts on the current series, and former jockey and media personality Alan Robinson entertained attendees with his colourful

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The audience of 100 were well entertained by MC Neil Whittaker, Men of League Northern Sydney president along with general manager of North Sydney Bears Greg Florimo who conducted informative interviews with several former first grade and representative players and coaches including Stuart Raper, Bruce Walker, Don McKinnon and Steve Hanson.

Our committee sees these types of functions as an excellent way to build strong relationships with the rugby league community and provide welfare assistance wherever possible. A special vote of thanks goes to Greg Florimo and the senior management and staff of the North Sydney Leagues Club for making the event possible.

MEN OF LEAGUE MEMBERSHIP FORM

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MEN OF LEAGUE FOUNDATION HISTORY

Since 2002, the Men of League Foundation has been assisting members of the rugby league community, including men, women and children. We support players, coaches, referees, administrators, volunteers, and committees, from all levels of the game, through our benevolence and welfare program.

Annual membership is $20 per annum. Your initial joining fee of $20, will include a Men of League keyring engraved with your membership number, our quarterly magazine, contact with current and retired football players and access to local committee events.

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