John 'El Presidente' PINKERTON
John has given the Club great service over the years. A tough First Grade forward, John played until a back injury in 1979 forced him to retire. At this time the Fourth Grade coach resigned, so John took over and moved to the backline. He did this for two seasons and proved to be a very damaging centre. He ended his career as a second grade centre in 1982. John was Club President from 1974 until 1981 and has been the most capable administrator this Club has had. John received a University Blue for outstanding service to University Rugby League. He was the Club's longest serving President and voted Clubman of the Year 1979. John was given Life Membership in 1982.
Nickname: 'El Presidente' - owing to his claim to fame as the longest standing President of MURLFC
Years played: 1973 - 1982
Position: Second Row, Forward
Club stats: 136 Games, 38 Tries, 114 Points
Team(s) supported: Western Suburbs Magpies, Manly Sea Eagles
Best game you've played in for Macquarie?
1977 Grand Final (Teachers Cub 12 - Macquarie 7) - such a good team, well-balanced and led by new coach Theo Burgess.
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
Steve Streeter - the most talented winger/centre I have played with - great pace and swerve, played for the Wallabies in 1978.
Favourite player of all time?
Keith Holman (Western Suburbs)
Best player you've played against?
Des Hasler (Teachers College)
Most memorable character(s) at the Club:
Mark Lucas ("the glue of the Club"), Geoff Brown ("his ability to get people together and work as a team", Theo Burgess ("brought a new level of professionalism to the Club")
Best off-field moment?
Tour to Newcastle for the 1974 Inter-Varsity Competition
Funniest/most embarrassing moment at the Club?
As President of the University Cup Competition, I had to introduce nominations for the representative coach to the selection panel. With friend and Clubman Brian Savage one of the two nominees, it was imperative that I demonstrated impartiality so as not to influence the selector's decision. Perhaps I overplayed my part as Brian was overlooked on this occasion..."
Where are you now?
Living in Curl Curl, North Sydney. Married 25 years. 3 kids. Currently working in funds management following a career as an economist with Westpac and looking forward to retirement next year.
How do you sum up your time with MURLFC?
I have been involved with Club for 15 years. The University was very supportive of rugby on campus. The Club brought together a lot of young students and provided an environment that was down-to-earth and a great place to find mates and have a few beers, while enjoying the sport we loved.
MURLFC CAREER 1973 - 1982, SECOND ROW / FORWARD, 136 GAMES, 38 TRIES, 114 POINTS
Nickname: 'Fawlty' - as in Fawlty Towers ("at least I hope that was the origins...")
Years played: 1981 - 1982
Team(s) supported: Canterbury Bulldogs
How did you first become involved with the Club?
I came to Macquarie in 1981 due to my working with Tony Carr who was the first grade captain of that year. Previous to that I had played the previous 20 years with a club in the Canterbury Bankstown Junior League competition. On my first visit to training I was made really welcome by everyone in the club. I began the year playing in Second Grade however as the year went on I found myself in Third Grade. My first game was against Bathurst which was a much sought after trip in those days because we got to go away as a club and stay overnight.
Best game you've played in for Macquarie?
1981 Grand Final (Macquarie 10 - Teachers Club 2). As this was the first Grand Final I had played in and the fact that we won tagged this game as not only my favourite game for Macquarie but without doubt the highlight of my playing days.
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
The strength of the club meant there were many talented players, Nipper was the cheekiest, Punchie, PJ were both very hard working forwards and Tony Carr lead the first grade team from the front. However my favourite players no doubt were in our third grade side. As a forward and no disrespect to our talented back line but players like Neil ' Potsey' Allen, Mick Kelly, Andre 'Burt' (he thought he looked like Burt Reynolds) Greenbury and Paul 'Rubbernose' Smith were champion blokes and great players to be involved with.
Favourite player of all time?
Terry Lamb (Canterbury Bulldogs)
Best off-field moment?
Tour to Newcastle for the 1974 Inter-Varsity Competition
Funniest/most embarrassing moment at the Club?
One of my most embarrassing event at Macquarie was when the team sheets went up for the first game of the season. When I arrived at the club I was introduced to the players by their nicknames. When the lists went up I had no idea who I was playing with that week because they used the players' real name. I still think there was a secret committee that met and gave a player without a nickname one that suited them. An example Matt Flint was known as PAM ( potential axe murderer) due to his perpetual grin he had on his face, regardless of the pain he was going through.
Where are you now?
I live on the North Coast of NSW at Lennox Head. I have been a teacher for the past 37 years, looking forward to retirement early next year. I am married with three children and one adorable grandson who loves to play football with Pa at every opportunity.
Your best memories at MURLFC?
One of my best memories of my days at Macquarie without doubt was the dividing of the club into four colour groups. These 'teams' contained players of all talents and across all grades. Training and mini Olympics were done in these teams and colour nights were held. This ensured mateship across the whole Club. This was also evident on game day when all players turned up to watch all grades. The First Grade were there to watch the Thirds and the Thirds stayed to watch the Seconds and Firsts. This developed a happy club. As a result of my involvement with the club I have developed life long memories and friendships.
Jeff 'Fawlty' TOWERS
MURLFC CAREER 1981 - 1982
Nickname: 'Sladey' or 'Deano'
Years played: 1977 - 1978
Team(s) supported: Cronulla, St George and Souths
How did you first become involved with the Club?
Theo Burgess was a previous coach of mine at another club. I had travelled overseas for a year or so and when I returned to Australia we reconnected. He advised that there was a great social atmosphere at the club, hence my joining.
Best game you've played in for Macquarie?
Hard to pin point one. I remember playing Teachers Club one wet Saturday and they had a team full of players who used to mouth off insults. We were in front by a healthy margin and they were still mouthing off, it was quite hilarious when it was suggested they take a look at the scoreboard. Teachers had one player in particular that I knew and we hated each other with a passion. We both played for Cronulla lower grades at separate times early in our careers . We used to try and do each other in. How he ever played for Cronulla is still beyond me. I did mention this to him on a few occasions. Another occasion John Pinkerton took a huge hit in a semi final against Sydney University, got straight back up, shook his head and went on with it. John was tough. We had a move called "Lockwood" that involved a no look flick pass to Paul Cooney. We put it on one day and it worked perfectly with Paul scoring a try.
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
Kevin Liggett without doubt. We developed a great rapport both on and off the field. Kevin was a great gap runner with timing, speed and lots of courage. He needed plenty of that to run off me!
Favourite player(s) of all time?
Reg Gasnier, Kevin Ryan, Billy Boston
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
Joe Cool ( Brian Savage) for him always wearing a pink jumper around his shoulders and a pair of sunglasses perched on his head, even at night. Sammy (Scoop) used to think he was George Negus. Warwick Bolton, (now deceased) had the most infectious, likeable personality. Listening to Mark Lucas and his funny stories.
Best off-field moment?
Kevin Liggett and I escaping late one night from a week end camp held in preparation for a Grand Final the next week end. We hit some clubs in Manly and didn't get back into the camp until the early morning hours. Theo Burgess was filthy.
Funniest/most embarrassing moment at the Club?
Losing a Grand Final we should have won was embarrassing.
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
Retired from football and got serious about a career. Worked in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane for Cheseborough Ponds.
Where are you now?
Semi retired from Slade Consulting Group an Executive Recruitment and Search Company. From 1991 - 2003 specialised in Medical Recruitment of overseas Doctors from the UK, Ireland and South Africa for Queensland's Public Hospitals. I live in Brisbane and am fortunate to have a wonderful and close family, wife Heather and two daughters, Lauren and Georgia.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
It was an environment where we could play competitive football at a reasonable level and also have a great social time. We had fun and there were no ratbags who did silly things. All the guys were respectful of their team mates and of other people. I still enjoy a close relationship with Theo Burgess, who was the epicentre of all things football.
MURLFC CAREER 1977 - 1978, 18 GAMES, 1 TRIES, 3 POINTS
Dean 'Sladey' SLADE
Mark was with the Club right from the start, apart from a couple of years spent in Malaysia and was involved in almost everything at Macquarie. He is one of the few who have notched up 100 games for the Club. He has been Club Treasurer and Vice President and First Grade Manager. However, Mark's greatest asset has been his personality. He has been the humourist of Macquarie for many years, livening up many a trip away and Presentation Night. He has always brightened things up after the disappointments of some seasons. He was Clubman of the Year in 1978 and in 1980 was made the fifth Life Member of Macquarie.
Nicknames: 'Quasi' and 'Freddy'
The first was ‘Quasi’, because I used to do an over the top imitation of the hunchback of Notre Dame, using a football as my hunch! The second was ‘Freddy’ (the freeloader). I didn’t have a license or car, so was always cadging rides from those who did.
Years played: Initially from 1969 – 1972. I then went to Canberra to do a Diploma of Education. Then teaching in Papua New Guinea for two years. On my return in 1976 I hooked up with the club once more and played three more seasons. I then was involved as a Manager of various teams from 1979 -1984
Team(s) supported: Not fanatical about any, but would lean towards the Wests Tigers. I like their style of play.
How did you first become involved with the Club?
I started University in 1969 and in August saw from a notice in the Student Union that a rugby league club was being formed that year. I rolled up to training to be greeted by Brian Savage, who promptly ‘initiated’ me into the club with an E.B.A. (Eastwood Ball Attack). This scrotal assault was apparently the accepted greeting for new chums!
Best game you've played in for Macquarie?
Definitely our first ever Grand Final, in the first season of the Uni Cup competition in 1970.
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
For me, that would have to be Kevin Liggett. His speed off the mark was stunning. Also a fantastic side step and a tenacious defender. He was a ‘natural.’
Favourite player of all time?
I’m old enough to remember thrilling at the exploits of the winger Ken Irvine at the North Sydney Bears. I’d go for him.
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
I guess that depends on your criteria. If we mean in the sense of a ‘character’ being somewhat of a larrikin/deviate, I’d nominate Brian Savage.
Best off-field moment?
That’s a tough one. There are so many to choose from! I’ll go with two. First the carousing parties we would have in ‘Rugby House’ after home games. Thankfully, the place was bereft of any breakable furniture. The carpet was permanently sticky from the amount of beer spilt and the lounge room smelt like a public bar. The second is a trip to Brisbane in the early 70’s to play in an Inter Varsity competition. I have no real memory of the games but just some hilarious off field high jinx, that started with me putting my backside through a window of the train we were travelling to Brisbane on. I had to do some fast talking to prevent the whole team being tossed off at the next stop.
Funniest/most embarrassing moment at the Club?
Again, where to start! However, I did gain a reputation as a habitual ‘mooner’. We called it the ‘brown eye’. At the drop of a hat, I’d happily bare my bum – on top of a table, out the window of a moving vehicle, going up an escalator. It always went down well with the lads!
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
With the exception of one year as a sales rep. for Caltex, I spent the whole of my working life as a teacher and curriculum officer in the areas of English as a Second Language and Literacy. I got to live and work in places like PNG, Malaysia and East Timor, as well as remote indigenous communities in the Northern Territory.
Where are you now?
Sadly, my wife died of cancer in 1996. I have a daughter and son, both in their thirties, who have provided me with three awesome grandsons. I’ve just retired to live quietly on beautiful Magnetic Island, just off Townsville.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
I formed a lot a what became lifelong friendships with mates I played with, and their partners. They have been there for me in some significant times in my life – some joyous and others quite tough. Two of the guys, Roger Kilby and Brian Savage were Best Man and Groomsman at my wedding. Geoff Brown is the Godfather of my daughter. Paul Cooney, who went on to be a Marist priest, christened and married my daughter and presided at my mum’s funeral.
MURLFC CAREER 1969 - 1984, 41 GAMES, 9 TRIES, 36 POINTS
Mark 'Quasi' LUCAS
Nicknames: 'Mongo' (unfortunately...)
Years played: 1984 - 1989
Team(s) supported: The 2014 premiers, world champions, and 9‘s champions …The Mighty Bunnies!
How did you first become involved with the Club?
Mates playing with Macquarie University
Best game you've played in for Macquarie?
Losing Grand Final 1986 (I think)
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
Mick 'Nipper' Alldis, Steve 'Punchy' Tamone, Peter Casey - can’t separate them.
Favourite player of all time?
Gary Stevens - great South's second rower in the early 70’s
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
A bloke called 'Letterbox' aka Kev McGarety or 'Albie' aka Steve Denning.
Best off-field moment?
Watching state of origin at the Ranch with the boys after training in the mid 80’s.
Funniest/most embarrassing moment at the Club?
Our end of season trips to Queensland - the whole trip was bloody funny with stories which will stay on tour.
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
Worked in the family plumbing business. Had one enjoyable year playing rugby at Newport.
Where are you now?
Married with two children, Bridie (18) and Angus (16).
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
Lifelong friendships and great to be playing with mates.
Dave 'Mongo' McELROY
MURLFC CAREER 1984 - 1989, SECOND ROW, 41 GAMES, 9 TRIES, 36 POINTS
Nicknames: 'Punchy' or more formerly 'Puncho Kemero'
Years played: 1979 - 1987
Team(s) supported: Wests Tigers
How did you first become involved with the Club?
After being dumped by Western Suburbs Magpies and recovered from a shoulder dislocation received in a preseason game. I was encouraged to 'give it a go' by Tus Murray.
Best game you've played in for Macquarie?
1984 1st Grade Grand Final - because it's captured on film and we replay it at every reunion! And more importantly, because we won!
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
David McElroy
Favourite player of all time?
Johnny Raper
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
Tus Murray, Paul Sammany
Best off-field moment?
The many social functions - we drank to much, too often!
Funniest/most embarrassing moment at the Club?
Our end of season trips to Queensland - the whole trip was bloody funny with stories which will stay on tour.
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
Retired from football but played 'Touch' with Macquarie team mates for many years in the VFTFC (Vince Farrar Touch Football Club) - that team still plays regularly.
Where are you now?
Working part time, married, 4 grown up kids.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
It was the 'centre' of my (social) life for a decade.
MURLFC CAREER 1979 - 1987
Steve 'Punchy' TAMONE
Nicknames: 'Coons'
Years played: 1973 - 1977
Team(s) supported: St George-Illawarra Dragons is my team, given that Thirroul is my home town.
How did you first become involved with the Club?
Some of us were seminarians with the Marist Fathers at Toongabbie (1973) and Hunters Hill (1974-77). We were given permission by our broad-minded superiors, Fathers John Thornhill and Jim Esler, to play Rugby League outside the seminary. It was a great boon to us. Manly and Springwood diocesan seminarians could play just a few games a year. We could play every week!
Best game you've played in for Macquarie?
For some reason my clearest memory is of a semi-final game against Sydney University at Sydney. I was actually going to Sydney Uni. for my studies at the time and here I was playing for Macquarie. It was a close game but we won. I remember giving a dummy from dummy half and sneaking away down the sideline to score a try.
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
There were many excellent players. Warren Boland stands out because he went on to bigger things footy-wise and to a successful career in media with the ABC.
Favourite player of all time?
Johnny Raper was probably the one who inspired me most as I grew up. He was tough, a clever runner with the ball and a wonderful tackler.
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
Rod and Judy Harding are a great support and dear friends. Stalwarts like Kevin Liggett, Brian Savage, John Pinkerton, John Rodwell and Geoff Brown made the club a very familial place to be.
Best off-field moment?
I was not much of a party animal in those days. I loved football and the companionship but was not one to linger for long afterwards. I remember, in my first year playing, some of the guys saying to me, ‘Why don’t you stay for a drink?’ I replied, ‘My boss, Fr Thornhill, said we have to come home straight away.’ A short while later there was a barbecue out at the seminary and some of the guys met John. They said to him: ‘Why won’t you let Paul stay for a drink after our games?’ John was taken aback and replied with surprise, ‘I have never told Paul he couldn’t stay on.’ Oops, my cover was blown.
Funniest/most embarrassing moment at the Club?
One night after a game, we were having a celebration back at the El Rancho Hotel. Even though I would have been 22 years old, I was pretty naïve about women. I have a vague memory of a woman in a leopard-skin type dress taking a liking to me, much to the amusement of those around who could see my obvious awkwardness.
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
I played rugby league for part of 1981 with Thirroul in the Illawarra League while I was teaching at Bellambi. A broken cheekbone ended that cameo performance! My last games were very social rugby union when I was in Burnie Parish, Tasmania in 1982-84. Career-wise, I have been a Marist priest for the last 37 years, ministering mostly in parishes around Australia. From 2001-2012 I was in leadership roles in the Marist Fathers in Australia based at Hunters Hill. For the last two years I have lived in Rome as the bursar general, overseeing the finances of the Marist Fathers worldwide.
Where are you now?
I now live in a lovely house in Monteverde, Rome with nine other Marist Fathers. I am two years into a four year appointment as bursar general. I get back to Australia about every 18 months.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
At the time of playing, it meant the joy of playing a sport that I loved and had played since childhood with a great bunch of guys. Looking back, having met up with some of my former teammates and others associated with the club at funerals and other gatherings, I realize it was a very healthy and integrating time. Quite a few came to my ordination as a priest in Wollongong in 1978. I came to understand then that playing football for a few years together was more than just a way to keep fit and have some fun. I have been very blessed in my life and the time playing rugby league at Macquarie was one of those great blessings.
MURLFC CAREER 1973 - 1977, LOCK FORWARD, 72 GAMES, 21 TRIES, 63 POINTS
Paul 'Coons' COONEY
MURLFC Legends
Nickname: 'Ralph' (named after Ralph Malph from Happy Days who never stopped talking). Apparently I never stopped talking on the footy field and would constantly engage referees and the other team in verbal banter.
Years played: 1979 - 1988
Team(s) supported: Have always supported the Bulldogs, my grandfather played in the first premiership game for Canterbury in 1935, so it seemed the obvious choice as a young boy to support the “Berries”, even though I am a Balmain junior.
Best game you've played in for Macquarie?
There were a number of really memorable games, however cannot go past our 1984 Grand Final win, a real moment in time in the Club's History.
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
Michael “Nipper” Alldis. I could name another 20 or 30 quality footballers from Macquarie who could easily be tagged the best player however I have to stick with Nipper, the ultimate competitor and leader in all situations.
Favourite player of all time?
This goes against the grain being NSW born and bred. Wally Lewis is the best State of Origin player in history for his will to win, his single minded approach, his ability and courage in dire situations. Queensland won several series in the 1980’s due to the Lewis factor and no other player could have pulled off some of the things he did to win games at that level. At the time, watching Queensland win those games was hard, but in hindsight it took a champion to make it possible. I was lucky enough to meet him in Sydney in 1987 and share a few beers.
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
It would have to be Macquarie’s Number One Supporter Alan Curry. A tough Wharfie in his younger years, Alan would constantly chant “Come on Quarrie” and “Give it to them Quarrie” much to the displeasure of the opposition supporters. However, who was going to argue with him? Alan would turn up to every game and motivate the boys, regardless of what grade was playing. A thorough gentleman and top bloke, Alan’s boys Greg (Bushy) and Steve (Dreamy) were both good, tough footballers for Macquarie. Alan is now retired and lives near Port Stephens with his wife Ruth.
Best off-field moment?
There are many great off field memories (and probably ones I have forgotten), however the 3 days following the 1984 Grand Final win at the El Rancho Hotel Beer Garden are some of the best. The entire club celebrated and family, friends, work mates and people we did not even know dropped in and had a beer or 10 during those 3 days.
Funniest moment at the Club?
Where do you start?? I’ll go with a trip to Bathurst in the early 1980’s and Terry “Tus” Murray at Bathurst Leagues Club on the Saturday night after the game. A few of the boys were chatting up some local girls and Tus walks up, takes his false teeth out and drops them into one of the girls drinks. The look of disbelief from the girls was priceless. Needless to say the boys did not get lucky that night!! (Tus did shout the girl a replacement drink).
Most embarrassing moment at the Club?
Again, where do you start?? Probably would be going from playing centre in the 1984 Grand Final to being chosen in the front row at the beginning of 1985. Two months with work in Papua New Guinea in early 1985 saw my weight go from 80kg to 101kg. The solution, play me in the front row until my fitness improved. It took 6 weeks and the boys had a field day watching me try to master the front row and attempt to be a ball playing prop.
Where are you now?
Managing Tranquil Vale Vineyard & Accommodation in the Hunter Valley with my wife. The property is stunning and the area (Luskintyre) is truly beautiful. We produce quality boutique wines and the accommodation is luxurious. Tranquil Vale is a must visit place if you are in the Hunter Valley for a weekend or a holiday.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
An integral part of my life in my 20’s. I have enjoyed playing many sports including cricket, rugby union, tennis, golf and Australian Rules however the satisfaction of playing rugby league at a good level is the highlight. The friendships gained at Macquarie are many and whether you were a First Grade player or a Fourth Grade player, the camaraderie through the entire club was always there. Winning premierships is a bonus, but the effort over the years of all players, officials and supporters to achieve overall club success has ensured reunions are always great fun and well attended.
MURLFC CAREER 1979 - 1988, WINGER, 155 GAMES, 51 TRIES, 333 GOALS, 23 FIELD GOALS, 863 POINTS
Bill 'Ralph' JOHNSON
Years coached: 1977 - 1978
Team(s) supported: Auckland Warriors
How did you first become involved with the Club?
I'd recently moved to North Ryde and saw that Macquarie were advertising for a coach, so I got in touch and met with John Pinkerton, Geoff Brown and Brian Savage. (From what Brian recollects, he thinks they may have offered Theo the job at that first meeting, but all three Macquarie men were a little hazy on the details. They were however, unanimous in their agreement that Theo could drink them under the table...)
What were your first impressions of Macquarie?
Fair to say I was hesitant to start with. After all, these were a bunch of twenty-something year-old students, enjoying a great social life, that were fronting up each week against some tough opposition from some of the less reputable parts of Sydney. The Club was first and foremost a social club - but what they lacked on the field was more than made up for in the Clubhouse! Thursday night was party night - once training was out the way by 8pm, the boys would let their hair down (which was ample in those days) and kick on till 3 or 4am before calling it a night. But for the Club to be successful on the field they needed toughening up, both mentally and physically. And so it was that in 1977, I organised a trial game against the infamous Camperdown Dragons, an uncompromising outfit from Sydney's inner west. Those who played in it won't forget it. Played at Macquarie headquarters, the Reserve Grade match ended up being abandoned after an all in brawl. Captain/coach Geoff Brown - a true gentleman both on and off the field, was sent off for the only time in his playing career as tempers boiled over and haymakers were the order of the day. It set the scene for a fierce First Grade encounter, which followed the tempo of the earlier match, and players from both sides whacked each other from start to finish. Looking back, it mightn't have been the best advertisement for the game, but the Macquarie boys took a lot away from it and it was a good experience for them. The local constabulary also had their work cut out for them the following Monday reuniting some of the 'visitors' cars with their original owners...
Best player you've seen play for Macquarie?
Warren Boland was the best player I saw play for Macquarie. He was at the Club before I joined, and after leaving Macquarie enjoyed success both as a professional league player with Wests and Balmain and a media personality. Dean Slade was another great player for Macquarie - a captain of the Cronulla President's Cup Side (U21), Dean followed me to Macquarie in 1977 and threw himself into the Club, both on and off the field.
Favourite player of all time?
Wally Lewis. No contest.
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
Terry Smith was one of a handful of trainee priests during my time at Macquarie, and was a regular 'stayer' at the Club's post-match celebrations. Getting him to meet his 8am church obligations each Sunday was a challenge! Paul 'stay away from the poker machines' Cooney and Mark Lucas were also great characters who brought as much to the Club off the field as they did on it.
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
I left Macquarie after the 1978 season to coach McMahon's Point, before going on to coach Asquith's A Grade in 1981. From there I went on to enjoy a successful NRL career on the coaching panel with Cronulla and North Queensland, and was one of the founding members of the Melbourne Storm Rugby League Club when they entered the competition in 1998. Nowadays, I am still involved with the NRL, working with the Auckland Warriors.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
Macquarie was a great Club to be involved with. The support from within and around the Club was excellent, as was the boys' willingness to take a more professional approach to their football. The reunion in February 2015 saw more than 20 past players and coaches get together, and it showed the strength of the bond that exists between those that came together for a brief period in their lives. I'd only seen one of the guys in 37 years, but walking into the room, the familiar faces (they all looked exactly the same - only the hair was grey) brought back memories of a great Club playing in a great era.
Theo 'Coach' BURGESS
MURLFC COACHING CAREER 1977 - 1978, MINOR ROUND RECORD - WON 18, DRAWN 3, LOST 9, FINALS RECORD WON 2, LOST 2
Nickname: "Cocky" - reflected my superior background emanating from the farming fraternity.
Years played: 1969 - 1972, then again in 1976
Team(s) supported: I'm ambidextrous now – League it’s Bulldogs, Manly and Storm – Union it’s Rebels, Melbourne Unicorns – AFL it’s Hawthorn and now also St Kilda, as my nephew plays firsts with them.
Most memorable game you played in for Macquarie?
Many of these – in a match against Newcastle Uni, we thrashed them, I scored one of many tries from their kick-off....and on the return bus trip to Sydney our bus driver was breathalysed, failed and we had to wait for a full analysis machine to test him (he eventually passed so we got home!) Another was Inter Varsity competition in Brisbane (1970 or 1971?) - I was tackled by what seemed like a mack truck, went to hospital, and to Brian and Mark Lucas’ great delight was diagnosed with a bruised brain, which they both disputed claiming one needed a brain before it could be bruised! Also, ask Mark Lucas how, on the trip up, he managed to put his arse through the train window and we were not all kicked off the train!
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
Many - Jimmy Doyle as our half back featured in setting up many victories, Kevin Liggett, and in the very early years, a half back called Graeme Smith. Each Saturday morning if he had a chunder on the field (generally came to the games pissed from the night before) he played a blinder, and our great centre, Bob Moorecroft, and Warren Boland, though he deserted us early for the big time, and of course our lock, Brian Savage provided he didn’t spend too much of Friday night in the old Sydney bar with his mob from “beers and misshap”!
Favourite player of all time?
Steve Rogers – Cronulla, Israel Falau (though he doesn’t know what code to play..) Chris Anderson when he was on fire with Bulldogs (graduate of Marist Bros Forbes!)
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
Many – stand outs for me are those I often recall when remembering the good times – Neale 'Parrot' Chapple – our founding father, Mark ('Quasi/Freddie the Freeloader') Lucas, Brian ('Sebastian Toombs' – “St” came from “the saint”, Simon Templar) Savage, John 'Jimmy' Reid, Steve McEvoy, and John 'Manuel' Mundine must get a mention.
Best off-field moment?
Again many – beers at the “El Rancho”; the camaraderie and team spirit – after game gatherings, bucks and other parties at Steve McEvoy and Bob Sims' flat in Neutral Bay; being best man at Mark and Wendy Lucas’ wedding; trip to Queensland with Brian, John Reid and “
Pinky” (Peter Beaumont); trip to Yass for Glen Brown’s 21st when we spent the day in the pub dressed as gangsters – locals were quite intrigued!
Funniest moment at the Club?
Attending poor innocent peoples parties as “the diggers” and regaling unsuspecting guests with our many ditties and assorted verses – we occasionally got encores.
Most embarrassing moment at the Club?
Not sure – I imagine there should be many, but i was probably too insensitive in those days to know that what i was doing was an embarrassment!
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
Started working life as a high school teacher (and whilst doing that played a few games of league with the Condobolin Rams – we were paid $15 for a win $2 for a loss, when a good salary was $100 per week!!! – returned to Sydney - taught Tom Carroll geography between his sojourns to Newport Beach!!. – then moved to the energy world working for BP and Chevron, doing time in the Olympic Dam uranium and copper project flogging “yellow cake” (as Mark Lucas continually pointed out!) And then north west gas project flogging LNG in Asia – Qantas ear-marked my plane seat for me!
What are you doing now?
Trying to figure that out! Gave up my day job in 2011….now board member of Falls Creek Alpine Resort, on 2 not for profit boards, play golf, sit on an beach, snow ski, go to lunch, do what my family tell me; live in Melbourne; married to Penny with kids 3 – two boys aged 29 and 28, and a girl, 25 (all left home now).
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
Made my life at Uni – arrived not knowing a sole in Sydney…found a great group of life long friends – when we meet up now it is as if time has stood still and we haven’t missed a beat.
Tell us about your ambulance trip with Brian Savage?
As Brian is a close friend, I immediately volunteered to accompany him to hospital after he suffered a knock during a match at the David Phillips Oval. On the way, I needed to make sure I was looking pretty sharp on arrival in the event I stumbled across a very attractive nurse (nothing less than what Brian would have done). I just wanted to make sure I could see that after meeting me she would then take appropriate (but limited!) care of Brian !!!
MURLFC CAREER 1969 - 1972
Roger 'Cocky' KILBY
Nickname: "Buzz"
Years played: 1982 - 1984. I retired when we won the First Grade premiership in 1984.
Team(s) supported: Wests Tigers. I grew up following Wests Magpies and went to most of their games for many years. My father and uncle both played first grade for Wests. My wife was a Balmain supporter so when the two teams merged, it was meant to be.
How did you first become involved with the Club?
I joined the Club in 1982 with a few mates. We came across from Five Dock RSL Rugby League Club (Dockers) which was also a strong club. We had won the Under 20 competition the previous year in the Western Suburbs district. We had heard good things about Macquarie as we knew some Dockers who were already involved at the Club. We were expecting a high standard of rugby league and great social life and were definitely not disappointed.
Most memorable game you played in for Macquarie?
There were many memorable games but the 1984 Grand Final will always be unforgettable. The lead up to the game was intense and very stressful as we had so much expectation to finally break through and win our first ever First Grade Grand Final. We had fallen at the last hurdle in 1983. We were very fortunate that the Grand Final was played at our home ground and that meant the after match celebration was at our own clubhouse. To see the relief and genuine happiness on so many faces that night will always be a great memory to me. It was like a massive weight had been lifted off the shoulders of every man who had played for this great club.
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
There were many great players that I played with as my time at Macquarie was when we were very successful and strong throughout our four grades. I played with ex grade players and NSW University representatives so to single out one person is not easy. Probably the best player was Mick (Nipper) Alldis. Mick had played grade with Balmain and was our half back. He had loads of natural ability and was one of those players that always appeared to have so much time. He read the play so well and could turn a match in an instant. Nipper had loads of mongrel about him and never took a backward step. He was solid in all areas and was a match winner. Easily the best half back in the competition each year I played.
Favourite player(s) of all time?
Tom Raudonikis who played for Wests, NSW & Australia. Pound for pound the toughest and gutsiest player I have seen. A great leader and the architect of the famous “cattle dog” call in a state of origin match.
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
Greg Curry’s father, Al was a great supporter and club man. He treated every player like it was his son and rarely missed a game. He was very much in the great Laurie Nicholls’s style who is a famous Balmain supporter. Al just enjoyed the football and seeing Macquarie win. He was also there to assist where necessary and enjoy a beer with the boys. There were other memorable characters but I think the men who gave up their time to coach, officiate and just support the club should be singled out. Without these men there would be no Macquarie and no memories.
Funniest/most embarrassing moment at the Club?
I remember going to Steve (Punchy)Tamone’s bucks night at the Clubhouse one night. Steve was an ex Wests grade player and went on to captain us to the First Grade premiership. Steve was not lacking in body hair and that night we decided to do some beauty treatment on him. We shaved a 'V' on his chest and with all the black hair he looked like he was wearing a Wests jersey. I’m pretty sure he was getting married the next day or a week later so it would have been great to be a fly on the wall at the wedding night to hear how Steve explained himself.
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
The 1984 Grand Final was my last game. I was the team manager of the Second Grade premiers in 1986 when the team was coached by Kev McGarrity who was also my coach at the Dockers. I have always been interested in the club and attended the odd match including semi-finals and grand finals.
Where are you now?
I work in property finance and have so for the majority of my working life. I have been married to Amanda since 1987. I have four children – Emma, Megan, Laura and Tom. We live in Concord. I am a member of the SCG so attend a lot of cricket matches, Swans games and rugby league when they play the one off games. I am a member of the local golf club and regularly play there with Glenn Marsh who also played with Macquarie and the Dockers. I guess the next chapter in my life will be grandchildren which I am looking forward to.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
My time at Macquarie was such a great period of my life. I was made very welcome and have made many life long friendships. The standard of football was very high and I really enjoyed the challenge of competing against some very talented players and teams. It was my first experience in an open age competition which involved promotion and relegation. This tended to drive you to play your best every game which was good for the club. We played and trained hard and had a lot of respect for every player in the club. There are also fantastic memories of being together late into the night after a game and other organized events. The Colours night was always something to look forward to. Weekends to Bathurst and end of season trips also provided great memories. I always look forward to the reunions and having a few beers with all the Macquarie boys.
Tell us about being dropped from First Grade?
In April 1984 my only sister was getting married. I approached the coach Brian Savage to get the game off to attend her wedding. Brian being the First Grade coach had high expectations of his players but reluctantly agreed to let me miss that game. He didn’t tell me though that there were conditions attached. He promoted a good mate of mine, Jim (Chopper) Milone to replace me and to teach me a lesson kept me in Second Grade for the next 3 or 4 games. Brian the super coach decided to make an example of me. Chopper did deserve his spot because he was playing exceptionally well but I thought I was a little hard done by getting dropped for a one off important date. I have never forgiven my sister and neither has Brian.
MURLFC CAREER 1977 - 1978, 18 GAMES, 1 TRIES, 3 POINTS
Colin 'Buzz' SHERRY
Nicknames: "Half Tooth"
Years played: 1980 - 1983
Team(s) supported: Wests Tigers - I was a Balmain Junior and have followed them all my life.
How did you first become involved with the Club?
I was transferred to Sydney in 1980 with my job (teacher) and knew seven or eight guys that were playing for the Club, including Steve Tamone, Mick Alldis and Adrian Murray.
Most memorable game you played in for Macquarie?
1980 Second Grade Grand Final. It was Macquarie's first Grand Final victory. We played NSW Institute of Technology and won 22-9 in extra time. I scored a try (one of only 2 in my career at Macquarie).
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
Best all round player would be Mick "Nipper" Alldis.
Favourite player of all time?
Arthur Beetson - a front rower, like myself, I loved the way he played the game.
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
There were lots of them and it would probably do an injustice to single any out. Everyone was a character in their own right - we all had nicknames, everyone got on well and it made Macquarie a great Club to be involved with.
Best off-field moment?
Collectively, the idea of the four "colours" system was a great initiative and meant that off the field the Club really bonded together. Training and social occasions were based around your Club colour, not what division you played in; partners and wives were included and it gave everyone at the Club, players and supporters alike, the chance to feel part of the team.
Funniest moment at the Club?
There were many, but most of them I remember came during the Talent Quests and Olympic at the Colour Nights, where we got ourselves into all sorts of difficult situations.
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
1983 was my last year at the Club. The following year I moved to Coffs Harbour for work and played in their professional league, where I helped them to make the 1984 Group 2 Grand Final.
What are you doing now?
I've been retired for six months after 38 years in teaching, the last 6 of which were as Principal at Maclean High School.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
Macquarie was a great Club to be a part of. That era was like the "perfect storm" - a time and a place that was full of great people sharing a common goal - to have fun, to play fair and in good spirit, and to all pitch in to make the Club a successful and enjoyable place to be.
MURLFC CAREER 1980 - 1983, FRONT ROW, 66 GAMES, 2 TRIES, 6 POINTS
Tony 'Half Tooth' CARR
Years played: 1982 as trainer and waterboy for First grade and 1983 playing in the Second Grade competition.
Team(s) supported: The Mighty Roosters
How did you first become involved with the Club?
Steve Daley was an old boy of the Five Dock years and introduced us" Dockers" to the club in the early 80's.
Most memorable game you played in for Macquarie?
Against Bathurst in Bathurst in '83 - received a rare man of the match award (very rare indeed!)
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
Bernie Perkins, a very hard and fierce competitor with a good football brain and "never say die" attitude.
Favourite player of all time?
Vince Farrah- Cronulla and England Legend, I believe there is still a touch footy competition played in the great man's honour.
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
With out a doubt that would have to be Tuss Murray, a very funny man with an endless list of stories to tell. Tuss would always hold court whenever we would get together for a beer or two or three.
Best off-field moment?
The colour night talent quests, I remember doing an Elvis impersonation on one such night and after my performance you could hear the crickets on the oval outside. The Macquarie boys and girls were tough judges.
Funniest moment at the Club?
See above!
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
Sadly I was forced to retire from Macquarie after the 1983 season due to injury and work commitments. A few years later I played soccer in an open competition in my local area, we made the Grand final but It just wasn't the same as those great days at Macquarie.
What are you doing now?
I have been living in Revesby for the past 27 years after marrying my childhood sweetheart Leonie who was also a supporter of the Macquarie boys all those years ago. We have three great kids (adults). I'm still driving for a living and we're all doing just fine.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
I have many great memories of my time at Macquarie, the rugby league was of a very high quality and the competition was very tough. Being involved with a club that had so much success at that time was amazing and credit must go to the administrators at the time. But more than that it was the mate ship and diverse bunch of characters that made Macquarie such a unique place to play footy.
MURLFC CAREER 1982 - 1983, HALF & FIVE EIGHT
Rob COLLINS
Nicknames: "PJ (Punchy Junior)" - brother of "Punchy" (Stephen)
Years played: 1981 - 1990
Team(s) supported: The mighty Roosters.
How did you first become involved with the Club?
Followed "Punchy" to the club.
Best game you've played in for Macquarie?
1984 1st grade grand final against Catholic College - Macquarie’s inaugural First Grade Premiership.
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
Michael "Nipper" Alldis, Adrian "Ugly" Murray and Steve "Punchy" Tamone.
Favourite player of all time?
Artie Beetson.
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
Chris "Steiny" Steinmetz, Chopper and Teddy.
Best off-field moment?
I think the cabaret nights when everybody dressed up and did an act on stage, "Steiny" would invariably end up drunk and running nude around the club house.
Funniest/most embarrassing moment at the Club?
I can’t recall.
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
I never went to University, I was an electrician (12 years) but now have been in sales for the last 25 years.
Where are you now?
I have lived in Brisbane for the last 13 years, married to Suzy with 3 daughters Peggy 13, Esther 10 and Mabel 8. I can assure you I am still a Blues supporter with Peggy who was born in NSW.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
It was a great club, very social and a great bunch of guys from many walks of life. We had truck drivers to doctors and everybody in between. Thursday night after training was a drink up at El Rancho which made for some long Fridays at work.
MURLFC CAREER 1981 - 1990, 100 GAMES, 18 TRIES, 64 POINTS
Michael 'Punchy Junior' TAMONE
MURLFC CAREER 1980 - 1984, HALF BACK, 91 GAMES, 38 TRIES, 9 GOALS, 1 FIELD GOALS, 144 POINTS
Mick 'Nipper' ALLDIS
Jack was a founding member of the Club and had a very involved association with the Club both as a player and administrator. Jack was a fine attacking player, scoring 66 tries in his six seasons at Macquarie. He was on the Committee during all six years and was Club secretary in 1975. In 1974 he was voted Clubman of the Year. In 1978 Jack was made a Life Member of MURLFC.
Nickname: "Jack"
Years played: 1970 -1975.
Team(s) supported: Wests Tigers- always a true Balmain boy.
How did you first become involved with the Club?
I’d played League since I was 7 so quite naturally joined the Rugby League club - glad there was one - once I enrolled in a BA at Macquarie in early 1970.
Most memorable game you played in for Macquarie?
Certainly not the grand finals we somehow lost (I played one with a broken clavicle so was pretty useless). Selfishly I remember the final of a 7-a-side, I think, knockout competition at Oakhill. Memorable because it was the only time I played against my younger brother, a far better played at Sydney University, and I scored a few tries in the game, which we WON. I felt a bit guilty because I only played in the final – I was selling beer up to that game (and had one or two...)
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
Kevin Liggett.
Favourite player(s) of all time?
Reg Gasnier.
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
Probably a young Mark Lucas – always entertaining and not afraid to put himself out there.
Funniest/most embarrassing moment at the Club?
My funniest memory (not publishable today, as not "PC") is of playing ASOPA (Australian School of Pacific Administration) one day at North Sydney. As I recall, Brian Savage progressed up the field by taking a tap and running into the opposition and whispering ”black bastards“ or words to that effect. They did not mind being called “black” but “bastard” was unacceptable. So they punched him, he’d get a penalty and, with a smile, do the same again. Eventually that game was called off. It must have been a bit fiery (a rare thing) because my brother-in-law Geoff Brown claims he was sent off (again a, a rare event) before the Savage incident. Personally, my most embarrassing moment was after drinking at the El Rancho on night , after a game or training. A young bloke on crutches approached us and asked if anyone could give him a lift home. I said I would as it was on my way. However it turned out “home” was Ryde Psychiatric Hospital. We somehow found his building and he insisted I come inside to meet his girlfriend, an Ophelia like young woman who seemed sedated. I got out quickly. When I late told the boys about it, they got a good laugh. ”Oh,“ someone said, “we thought you might have fancied him.” So much for a random act of kindness!
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
Career in librarianship. At Macquarie University itself, 1978-85, and finishing at University of Sydney in 2008 as Director of Humanities and Social Sciences Libraries.
Where are you now?
Retired but busy. Wife Rose-Marie and I have lived at Revesby for 38 years. Two sons, no grandchildren (so far). Most of my community activities generated from being on the Board and Vice-President of Revesby Workers’ Club Ltd.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
Provided my major social milieu and friendships while I studied at the university and tried to figure out what to do post BA degree, i.e.
How I was ever going to make a living. Have kept in touch with many ex-players and enjoy catching up with others from time to time.
John 'Jack' RODWELL
MURLFC CAREER 1970 - 1975, CENTRE/WINGER, 92 GAMES, 66 TRIES, 168 POINTS
Nicknames: "Tus"
Years played: Played 1977 - 1979. Coached / Managed 1980 - 90.
Team(s) supported: Parramatta Eels
How did you first become involved with the Club?
Paul "Sammy" Samany invited me down one Saturday in 1977 for a game of touch football with Third Grade as they had a bye.
Best game you've played in for Macquarie?
It was a game in 1979 against Mitchell College in Bathurst. As captain/coach of Third Grade we had a pretty ordinary defeat the week before, so we had to do something special if we were to be contenders. We won the game with the team playing great. Also I scored a rare try and won Man-of-the-Match. It was most satisfying.
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
John Lawler
Favourite player of all time?
Peter Sterling & Jonathon Thurston.
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
Brian Savage, Paul Samany, Ernie Barbieri, Mat Petite. There are a lot more...
Best off-field memory?
It was a Friday afternoon down at the Customs House Hotel in Sydney (near the Quay). Brian Savage was with a group of people explaining to them how the Club was taking a more professional approach to playing/coaching/training/administration in the upcoming season. I noticed Brian in the crowd and began to call out his name from afar. The thing was though I had been at the pub for quiet a few hours and was under the weather. When asked by his friends who was that Brian was forced to confess ‘Oh that’s Tus - he’s the Third Grade coach’. Credibility shot.
Funniest/most embarrassing moment at the Club?
It was a wet day at Prince Henry Oval and I was watching the later game when one of our centres noticed a stone on the oval. He picked it up and threw towards the sideline without looking. Unfortunately he didn’t throw it far enough and hit his winger. It looked funny from the sideline to watch the winger just collapse for no apparent reason. The stone struck the winger clean but with no long term affects – we all laughed.
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
Was transferred in my job to Bathurst late 1990.
Where are you now?
Now retired after 42 years in the public service. Married but no kids but do have a beagle hound.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
At the time I left Macquarie, I had spent nearly 1/3 of my life there and made a lot of friendships and had a great time. I will never forget Mac.
MURLFC CAREER 1977 - 1990, SECOND ROW / PREMIERSHIP COACH (SECOND GRADE) / MANAGER
Terry 'Tus' MURRAY
Nicknames: "Nipper" after a bottle of Blackberry Nip given to me and one other at midnight on Coolangatta beach by two very drunk girls. I drank most of it and had purple lips for the next two days.
Years played: 1980-84. My beautiful daughter was born 1985. I went back to Macquarie in 1986 with the great "Mongo" as our captain.
Team(s) supported: Tigers
How did you first become involved with the Club?
Through Steve Tamone, Adrian Murray, John De Bono, Tony Carr and Michael Thompson. We all played for a team called Leichhardt Wanderers. That club became the beginning of our close sporting lives.
Most memorable game you played in for Macquarie?
First premiership win for Macquarie First Grade at home with all our families watching.
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
Dave "Mongo" McElroy - team player, non-stop runner, smashing defence. Steve Tamone - great leader, calm under pressure. Adrian Murray - smart five eight - always could see two tackles ahead (but I always thought I was a little bit better than all of them!). Phil Keady - for me, he was Man of the Match in the 1984 Grand Final.
Favourite player of all time?
Billy Smith, Andrew Johns, Chang Langlands - but best of all was Tom Raudonikis. He was a rat! Love him.
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
Ross Small - won a frozen chicken at the pub after the game and ate it. Terry Murray - always full of great stories. Brian Savage - let me think...and…think...no, everyone agrees with me - he had...”NOTHING”. There was one bloke (no names) back in the 80’s who thought it was a good idea to have a couple of ports at half time to gee us up. Well just before full time he was carried off and had a little sleep in the sheds .
Best off-field moment?
Our club always had something different like ’Olympics‘ - split the club into 4 colours and long distance run, sprints, jump and tug-o-war.
Funniest moment at the Club?
After a game we would always jump into the showers. There was one particular character who would stand there under the shower washing whatever hair he had left and start pissing on everyone. It always took a second or two to work out that that water was different. Then we would bash him.
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
Self employed painter. All the boys still play touch football, golf, bike ride - always in touch.
What are you doing now?
35 years married to beautiful Susie. We have lived in the same house for our entire marriage. Daughter Nicole, 30 (Special Ed Teacher), Tom 28 (Dietician).
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
We were lucky in 1980 when 2 large groups came to Macquarie - The Dockers (Five Dock) and the Wanderers (Leichhardt). We then both joined the Macquarie boys and amazingly got on. We had 2 goals - (1) have fun off the field, (2) whilst on the field totally give everything. Other clubs hated playing us because every game was full on.
Nickname: "Sod"
Years played: 1982 - 1987
Team(s) supported: South Sydney
Most memorable game you played in for Macquarie?
1984 first grade grand final – we won!
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
A lot of good players, but best were David McElroy and Ted Collins.
Favourite player of all time?
Steve Rogers.
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
Many characters, all with different traits - Paul “Sammy” Samany, Graham "Nuc" Hazell, Jimmy "Chopper" Milone, Mick “Rutto” Rutledge to name a few.
Best off-field moment?
1986 end of season trip away to The Resort at Surfers Paradise.
Funniest/most embarrassing moment at the Club?
Probably getting the nickname Sod (“son of Dungus”) which has stuck for over 30 years. Given by Ted Collins.
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
Chartered Accountant.
What are you doing now?
I live at Rhodes.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
We played a good standard of football, had a lot of fun with mates and formed enduring friendships.
Tell us about your mate, Paul Gleeson?
Paul was a very good friend of mine (and others at the club) who passed away in April 1985 following a tackle in a trial match against UTS. It was a tragic accident, that affected his family and friends. He is fondly remembered to this day.
MURLFC CAREER 1982 - 1987, PROP / SECOND ROW
Phil 'Sod' KEADY
Nicknames: My nickname was usually "Marshy" to the majority of the Club though some players did call me "Junior".
Years played: 1983 - 1992 in various grades
Team(s) supported: I support the Wests Tigers in the NRL and a big Green Bay Packers fan in the NFL.
How did you first become involved with the Club?
I became involved through Secind Grade coach Kevin "Box" McGarrity who coached me at Five Dock RSL
Best game you've played in for Macquarie?
My most memorable game was being a part of Macquarie's First Grand Final in 1984 though I was only on the field for the first 15 minutes. My experience in the weeks leading up to the Grand Final was very special. Though I never played in this game, but to coach the Third Grade to the Premiership in 1987 was very memorable. To be involved with a outstanding bunch of guys who really helped me through the year with their input I will never forget that year.
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
I have played with a number of great players but the one who stands out to me was Dave McElroy - a hard running second rower who not only played the game hard and fair but also was a humble and good guy.
Favourite player of all time?
My favourite player was Tommy Raudonikis - not fast or skilful but hard as nails - great to watch. My two favourite players now are Sean Johnson and James Tedesco - very fast.
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
Characters who stood out for me was Terry Murray who amongst many funny things he used to do but trying to start his car with his comb it was classic "Tus". Ernie Barbieri for his ability to be sinbinned or sent off nearly every game but still scored many tries who always karaokied to Bruce "The Boss" Spingsteen. Another character we cant miss is Kevin "The Box" McGarrity - not many people know how he got the nickname "The Box". It was after a night out with Bernie Perkins when, the next morning with hangovers, we walked pass my letterbox which was one of those old ones with a long skinny poll with a big box on top looking at each other - Kevin "The Box" McGarrity was born...
Best off-field moment?
My best off field memory was the off season trips away at the Gold Coast but enough said - what happens on tour stays on tour.
Funniest/most embarrassing moment at the Club?
My memorable moment on the field was at Little Bay Field. When I was at fullback, I saw our centre Rafer throw a stone/rock off the field and hit "Wooka" Brown in the head as he was standing there minding his own business. Waiting for a scrum to pack "Wooka" standing there rubbing his head wondering what happened - I still think to this day he does not know what happened!
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
After leaving Macquarie I spent time being with my family and being involved with my children and their sport.
Where are you now?
I have been married now for 28 years with three boys 25, 22 and 18. Funny enough not one played rugby league. I live at Ryde with everybody still living at home. For work I am a sales rep dealing with architects and designers. I am a member at Massey Park Golf Club with the handicap going backwards every week.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
To be involved with Macquarie means a lot to me. When I first joined the club everyone was friendly from the first training session. We had 4 grades and everyone mixed together. We all met for drinks after training at the El Rancho Hotel either on a Tuesday or Thursday after training or both nights. Also going back there after games led to a many good night. Apart from playing football together, there was also many social occasions away from football where we all got to know each other better. This has led to after all these years still having friends from the Macquarie University Rugby League community.
MURLFC CAREER 1983 - 1992, FULLBACK / HALFBACK / HOOKER, PREMIERSHIP COACH (THIRD GRADE)
Glen 'Marshy' MARSH
MURLFC CAREER 1968 - 1970, HOOKER / PROP / WINGER / FIVE EIGHT, 21 GAMES
Neale was one of the founding members of MURLFC in 1969. Most of his time with the Club was spent as an administrator and supporter. He was the Club's first President and continued as Executive Member of the Committee until 1971. Neal also managed Macquarie's teams, especially touring teams to the ACT and Intervarsities. The Neale Chapple Shield was instituted in 1969 for 'Clubman of the Year', being named after its first recipient. Neale was one of the hard workers in the formative years of the Club. He was made the first Life Member of Macquarie in 1977.
Years played: I remember I played in 1968-1970. In December 1970 I had a motor cycle accident and never played after that though I was manager of the Balaclava side.
Team(s) supported: Balmain Tigers, Sydney Uni Rugby, Waratahs, Wallabies, Swans.
How did you first become involved with the Club?
John Wrigley and I founded the club in 1968 - our first year at University. The first President was Ron Fox but he was ousted at an extra ordinary meeting of the club executive. I was Club Secretary and then Club President. We organised the Club into a fully fledged representative side in 1969 playing in the North Sydney competition. Then in 1970 and 1971 we played in the University Cup. Somewhere along there we also payed in Intervarsity, both in Brisbane and in Sydney. We also played the curtain raiser to an Australian Universities v NZ Universities match in Canberra. We played and won over University of Canberra.
Most memorable game you played in for Macquarie?
My most memorable game would have to be the win over University of Canberra in the curtain raiser to the University International game. At our presentation night that year Bernie Lawler had photos of that game on a noticeboard. Under one picture of a scrum showing we had the ball behind the second rowers feet, Bernie had written "Who said we never won a scrum in Canberra?" I think it might have been the only one!
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
The best player I played with would have been Kevin Liggett.
Favourite player of all time?
Keith Barnes
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
Mark "Quasimodo" Lucas, Roger "Cocky" Kilby, Brian "The Body" Savage.
Best off-field moment?
Off field there are so many memories. The Dolly Magazine shoot, the Intervarsity trip to Brisbane, the kegs at Rugby League House, the EBAs and Brown eyes, the infamous parties in Balmain, Again the memory clouds a bit. The presentation nights were always good fun and of those the night I received the clubs first Life members badge was the best.
Funniest moment at the Club?
Mark Lucas put his bum through a train window breaking it on the trip to Brisbane. Doug Wade and Greg Ware swimming the Molongolo river nude. Cocky Kilby's rugby songs. Singing in a group at Paul Dolan's 21st birthday party. Mark Lucas chasing John "Manuel" Mundine at training. I could go on for ever...
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
Taught at Lake Cargelligo, Campbelltown, Bourke, Hoxton Park, Wagga Wagga, Wollongong, Macksville, Beverly Hills and Wallsend.
What are you doing now?
Now retired at Belmont on Lake Macquarie. Ann and I have a daughter Rachel and a son Steven both married, Rachel having three daughters.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
I loved the club and did everything I could to see it successful. To learn now how much it prospered under the guidance of Brian Savage is phenomenal! Brian was not an undergraduate but should be given an honorary degree for what he has achieved with the club at Macquarie University.
Neale 'Parrot' CHAPPLE
Nicknames: Didn't really have one. I had "BP" (quiet achiever) for a while but it didn't catch on.
Years played: 1986 - one tremendous year!
Team(s) supported: Wests
How did you first become involved with the Club?
First became involved in club through Kev McGarrity hassling me and Ted Collins also.
Most memorable game you played in for Macquarie?
Grand Final 1986. Also my very first game for the club which was in Third Grade and I was lucky enough to be given the Players' Player Award that day. It made me feel welcomed.
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
Dave McElroy, Peter Casey, Ted Collins.
Favourite player of all time?
Steve Rogers
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
"Raf" Johnson. A legend and a great player.
Best off-field moment?
Turning up to first night training. Cold, wet. I parked my car, had second thoughts and was about to drive home and never play footy again. Kev McGarrity spotted me in the car park and called me in, Then I had close to the best footy year of my life.
Funniest moment at the Club?
Funniest moments were after the game at the pub, too many to recall.
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
Retired from footy.
What are you doing now?
School principal. Married with two teenage boys.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
It was one fantastic year where I met a lot of great blokes and played with wonderful footballers. I fondly recall many moments.
MURLFC CAREER 1986, CENTRE
Kevin BRYSON
Years at Club: 1984 - 1988
How did you first become involved with the Club?
It was 1984 and shortly after the tragic on-field incident involving Paul Gleeson, the Club decided that it needed a qualified first aider to watch over its games. At the time, I was a first aider for St John's NSW and I'd played rugby in my earlier days at St Patrick's College. The more established Union competition had first aiders attending their matches and it was only a matter of time before clubs such as Macquarie realised the importance of having qualified first aid help on the sidelines. I started out attending only their home games at Macquarie Fields, but I soon became a more permanent fixture at all home and away matches. And over time, I took a more active role in their pre-match preparation and post-match treatment as the players welcomed me as part of the team, and occasionally heeded some of my advice!
What were your first impressions of the Club?
Given what happened prior to my involvement with the Club, I was naturally apprehensive about taking on such a big responsibility. You never knew quite what was going to happen from one game to the next. The players played hard - probably harder than their bodies were capable of taking it - particularly early in the season when they were trained, but not match fit. But by accepting this responsibility made me a better first aider. The players began to respect my advice and I in turn became more confident in managing and treating the players' injuries. I did a sports medicine course and used to arrive at matches early enough to take on pre-game massages and strapping. My efforts were appreciated by the players and I felt a real part of the team. Over time, the bond that had formed between myself and the players extended to their partners, wives and children, and I became like the local doctor! My wife was also welcomed into the Club, and we attended many Club nights and social occasions.
What were some of the most memorable on-field moments?
The 1984 Grand Final; Ted Collins' last game for Macquarie (against Oakhill - had his head split open and required 12 stitches - I couldn't clean him up quick enough before his partner saw the extent of his injury before going to hospital); Brendon "One Ball" Kennedy taking a severe knock to the privates - prompting the lads to sing in the shower "Poor Brendon One Ball, He used to have two, Now one will have to do!"; the England rookie in his first trial game for the Club breaking both tibia and fibula in a crunching tackle; one player after a poorly executed palm-off pulling back in his two dislocated fingers after told him I couldn't do it for him; Dave "Mongo" McElroy lining up former Eels legend John McMartin in a Semi-Final match against the Railway Institute and "creaming" him! (McMartin only pulled on the boots at halftime after Macquarie were leading). Macquarie went on to win the match.
Most embarrassing moment at the Club?
One day I turned up for a home match, everything in hand, bucket of ice and all the first aid gear, and stood on the sidelines in the pouring rain. Only problem was no-one turned up. The game and had been cancelled and no-one had remembered to tell me!
Best player you saw at Macquarie?
Ernie Barbieri and Dave "Mongo" McElroy. Both had great skills that they used well and were good to watch. Ernie was a great "niggler" and used to get under the skin of the opposition, and was a great try-scorer. "Mongo" was the Club's hard man - he played the game tough but fair. Also Ted "Zip Zap" Collins was a tremendous fullback with magic feet and quick off the mark. Every time he got the ball, you expected great things.
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
Terry "Tus" Murray, Paul "Sammy" Samany, and Ernie Barbieri
Where are you now?
I'm 73 and officially retired now. I have a wife and 2 kids (plus 2 grandchildren). I'm still involved in first aid with St Johns, and have been now for 32 years. Currently involved with the Eels at Paramatte Stadium.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
There was a fantastic feeling around the Club during my time there. All the players played hard for one another and there was a great spirit of mateship that was the envy of many opposition teams. I was made to feel welcome from day one, and also made to feel an integral part of the team. Some of my great memories were taking part in the prize giving nights and one year I finished only 1 point behind the winner of the Clubman of the Year. As my relationship with the Club and the players grew over the years, I enjoyed being part of the Club's social scene, including dinners at the El Rancho and post match BBQ's at players' houses. There was a terrific atmosphere around the Club and it's a time I look back on with the fondest memories.
Arthur GARSKE
MURLFC FIRST AIDER, 1984 - 1988
Nicknames: "Steiny"
Years played: 1981 - 1985
Team(s) supported: Was a Western suburbs supporter...don't talk to me about ARL loyalty!
How did you first become involved with the Club?
Tony "Half Tooth" Carr asked if I wanted to play with Macquarie when I moved to Sydney to work. I'd also watched the Second Grade Grand Final the year before and thought they seemed a good club to join.
Best game you've played in for Macquarie?
The game that I remember is one we actually lost right on full time. It was a semi final against Mount St Marys in 1981 I think. Very tough game.
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
Very hard question. I loved playing football with Nipper though.
Favourite player of all time?
Every player who pulled on the jumper gave it all they had ... the most inspirational for me was Steve Tamone.
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
"Franger"
Best off-field moment?
Probably the nights we had in the clubhouse after a good win. Also the night at training Lowie caught a flying kookaburra bare handed. The way the club would support people who were struggling with an aspect of their lives.
Funniest/most embarrassing moment at the Club?
In my first trial for the club Brian Savage caught and tackled me over the sideline ... he never let me forget it!
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
Moved to Port Macquarie for work ... played football in Group 3.
Where are you now?
I live in Port Macquarie. Married to Jenny, two children, Jack and Cassie.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
It was probably my most enjoyable years in any sport......mates, fun. But when it came time to train and play we were very serious. I was really disappointed to learn the club had folded.
Chris 'Steiny' STEINMETZ
MURLFC CAREER 1981 - 1985, CENTRE
Nicknames: "Ugly"
Years played: Played 1981 - 1984
Team(s) supported: I was always a Parramatta supporter as a kid. Dad would take my brother and I to the old Cumberland Oval and sit on the old wooden splintery seats to watch them. After playing at Balmain I now have a soft spot for the West Tigers.
How did you first become involved with the Club?
I came to Macquarie in 1981. I had played grade for the Balmain Tigers for three years (1976, 77, 78) and then had a year playing for the Ryde Eastwood Hawkes in the Parramatta A Grade competition in 1979. The money was great at Ryde Eastwood but there was something lacking. The fun was missing and I had lost enthusiasm. I had a year off football but I found myself going to watch my elder brother “Tus” the legend at Macquarie where he was the self confessed “last of the modern day captain coach”. I was impressed with the standard of football and the fun the guys were having on and off the field. So it was an easy decision in 1981 to see if I could make the top grade at Macquarie. It was a great decision.
What was the most memorable game you played in for Macquarie?
This was a Semi Final match I think from memory. We were playing Mt Saint Mary’s Teachers college which had the young Des Hasler playing in their side. It was one of the hardest games of football I had ever played. It had skilful football, brawls, drama and excitement. I am pretty sure it went into extra time and unfortunately we came up short. It took a lot out of both teams. I think everyone knew that the loser would find it difficult backing up next week, battered and bruised in an elimination match. We went out of the competition next week and our opposition could not repeat their effort either.
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
This is a difficult question. I played with a lot of great players at Macquarie. Some of them came from professional Grade football and some of them should have played pro grade. Each was great in their own way.
Michael Alldis aka "Nipper": skilful, tough, energetic, never say die player. The type of halfback you would prefer next to you rather than on the opposition team.
Stephen Tamone aka "Punchy": master of the offload, played well above his weight and size, inspirational leader.
Michael Tamone aka "PJ": one of the toughest young players that I had the pleasure of playing with. Hard running forward, great defender. If I needed my opposite number to be harassed or put off their game I could always rely on "PJ" to take them out.
Who is your favourite player of all time?
I loved the players of the ‘60s. Ken Thornett, Parramatta, was a master. I also had the pleasure to watch the immortals Reg Gasnier and John Raper for St George at the SCG match of the day week after week. A player I love to watch at the moment is Jonathon Thurston.
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
My brother Terry “Tus” Murray. A larger than life character. Played and coached in the lower grades. Loved by all especially the young guys. I am not sure he was the most ideal role model but he did educate the young boys in the finer arts of punting, beer drinking and fast food. But he was very well respected by everyone in the club and an inspiration when he played and coached. The players he coached respected and admired him and would run through brick walls for him.
Funniest/most embarrassing moment at the Club?
I think having my bucks night at the clubhouse at the Macquarie home ground. Plenty of beer, KFC and the traditional heavy duty plastic slippery slide down the huge, steep hill at the ground. Barely clad young men sliding into the metal fence and quite often coming off the plastic completely out of control. I still bear the scares. Waking up the next day and having to call Brian Savage the coach to tell him that I couldn’t play in the pre season trial because of a hangover and numerous abrasions was not easy. As usual he called me a dog, laughed hysterically and said "No one’s position in the team is safe. See you at training."
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
I was asked to come back to the Club and help out as a manager/trainer/strapper and I was fortunate and honoured to be part of the 1988 premiership team led by the awesome David McElroy.
Where are you now?
I was a student at Macquarie University. I became a high school teacher and I will retire from full time teaching in 2015. I have been at Parramatta High School since 1985.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
It was great to be involved in a sport with my brother. If not for Terry I probably would not have had those great years with the club.
Macquarie RLFC brought back the fun and enjoyment for a sport that I loved to be involved in. I made many new friendships and consolidated old ones. Going to training was fun and under the coaching of Brian Savage I realised that I was still learning a lot about the finer aspects of the sport. Macquarie RLFC was a really “professionally” run club run by people who gave their time and energy unselfishly so that guys could each week play a sport they loved. Special mention here to Paul Samany and Mat Pettit who did most of the behind the scene work to make sure the club stayed afloat. My only regret is that I didn’t give enough back to the club when my playing days were over.
MURLFC CAREER 1981 - 1984, FIVE EIGHT, 54 GAMES, 29 TRIES, 102 POINTS
Adrian 'Ugly' MURRAY
Nicknames: "Dolo", "Lightning", "Silky Hands", "The Axe"
Years played: Played in the first year of the team through until 1974 when I went overseas for two years. Played a season in 1977 on my return.
Team(s) supported: I have been a Balmain Tigers fan since birth, now the Wests Tigers.
How did you first become involved with the Club?
Quite a few of us who attended Marist Brother’s Eastwood went to Macquarie Uni. (I started in its second year). Several of us had played in a local team in the district comp after we left school. When I saw at what I think it was an orientation day, that a Rugby League team was to form at Macquarie, I joined up.
What was the most memorable game you played in for Macquarie?
Most memorable game would be the first Grand Final we played in (and the first we lost) to Sydney Uni. Memorable for a couple of things – the excitement of playing in a Grand Final, the anticipation of victory as we had been the dominant team throughout the season, the legend that has grown around the fact that Sydney Uni played a number of players in their team who were playing in the interdistrict competition at a higher level. It was also memorable because our hooker was injured in the previous match and I hooked – I think we lost the scrums 27-6 ( in the days when a scrum was a scrum)!!! Other most memorable game was the day at Clemton Park I scored two tries. Since I only scored about three in my whole career, that WAS a highlight!
Best off field memory?
As I think everyone will say, it is the mateship and the camaraderie of my fellow players. I met some of the nicest blokes ever during that time and several have stayed close friends to this day, almost forty years later. I have said to others that it is amazing that I played with Macquarie for only a relatively short period of my life, but those years loom large on memories.
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
Most people of my era would nominate Kevin Liggett or Paul Cooney, both outstanding players, but I would nominate half back Jim Doyle. Jim’s career was plagued by injuries (and his game often marked by feigned injuries to bring a penalty) but his defence and his ability to sniff a try were quite unbelievable.
Who is your favourite player of all time?
Favourite player would be Keith “Tin Legs” Barnes from Balmain Tigers - not a lot of him but courageous and his goal kicking won many a game for the Tigers.
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
Mark Lucas was just the funniest bloke you could meet. Roger Kilby always had a story to tell or a ditty to sing appropriate to the occasion. Dare I mention Brian Savage as a glue for the Club over many years.
Funniest/most embarrassing moment at the Club?
Most embarrassing would be the time I came on as a replacement for the Firsts with about ten minutes to go. Of course, then there was no warm-ups and so-on while waiting on the sideline. When I came on, I was given the ball about ten metres from the try line with no opposition players in sight and my legs cramped up and i didn’t make it anywhere near the line before being tackled. Howls of laughter from the sidelines!
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
Like many at Macquarie, i studied to be a teacher. I pursued that profession, first in Department of Education then the Catholic system, where I finished up a Principal in a girls’ secondary school and then a leadership role in the Catholic Education Office in Human Resources.
Where are you now?
Married to Trish who was my girlfriend during Macquarie days, four adult children, three of who are married, semi-retired doing educational consultancy work. Live in Concord West – didn’t travel far from where I grew up in West Ryde.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
I loved playing football but loved more the company of good blokes, many of whom are friends to this day. It provided many laughs during the day and still to this day.
MURLFC CAREER 1970 - 1974, 1977
Paul 'The Axe' DOLAN
Nicknames: "Rafer Johnson"
Years played:1983 to 1988 inclusive
Team(s) supported: Parramatta Eels
How did you first become involved with the Club?
I hadn’t played league since the under elevens but was keen to give it go. My brother was a mate of Dave Shein’s brother Rob and because at that stage (1983) Macquarie University had four grades I thought if I followed those two down there I was a chance of getting a run with my limited experience.
What was the most memorable game you played in for Macquarie?
The 1988 Grand Final we won it and it was interrupted by an epic hailstorm that turned it into a dour affair. We grafted till the end and won on discipline.
Best off field memory?
The pre Grand Final Saturday in 1984 when we watched the Prelim Final and ended up in Chinatown.
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
I can’t split Steve Tamone and Michael Alldis.
Who is your favourite player of all time?
If it is a Macquarie University player then Punchy Tamone otherwise Brett Kenny.
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
There were lots but Nipper Aldis and Mark "Windscreens" O’Brien stand out.
Funniest/most embarrassing moment at the Club?
When the ball was thrown in from the sideline by Paul Samany to restart play and it hit me in the groin and I had to receive attention before play could resume.
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
I played a couple of years in Parramatta Juniors and then in the Public Service Comp for a couple more.
Where are you now?
Married with a grown up daughter, just completed my 30th as fire fighter with Fire and Rescue NSW.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
A chance to play rugby league with plenty of talented players who were also really good people who loved to play footy and a have a laugh.
MURLFC CAREER 1983 - 1988, WING / CENTRE / FULLBACK
Steve 'Rafer Johnson' PARKINS
Nicknames: "Gummy"
Years played:1979 - 1980
Team(s) supported: I gave up supporting a rugby league team many, many years ago when Newtown was kicked out of the league.
How did you first become involved with the Club?
Through Kenny Dillon (KD ) who was playing full back in First Grade. I was 29 and in my final year part time as a mature age student at Macquarie Uni in 1979. At one of our lectures I told KD I needed to train so I could run a fast City to Surf time. He got me to come to a Rugby League training session. I was really impressed with the club and the guys, and found myself on the wing in Third Grade.
What was the most memorable game you played in for Macquarie?
My first First Grade game where I scored 4 tries on the wing. Also, my last full game where I got a total dislocation of my left leg at the knee without snapping the cruciate or medial ligaments.
Best off field memory?
Once again, too many to cite just one. We had fantastic club and social functions as well as the best end of season trips to the Miami Hotel on the Gold Coast. On a playing level, in 1979 being the equal top try scorer of the club with Ross Pinkerton. On a personal level, receiving a Club Colour for Rugby League from Macquarie Uni in 1987 and being made a Life Member to MURLFC in 1988. On a coaching level, winning the Third Grade Premiership in 1981 being undefeated for the season. On the Club level, seeing Brian's team win the Second Grade Premiership in 1980 (our first ever Premiership win after being bridesmaid in many previous grand finals) and then topping it off with winning the First Grade Premiership in 1984. Also, Tus winning the Second Grade Premiership in 1988. Savage used to tell me " Gummy, it's tough at the top" - he was First Grade Coach and I was Third Grade Coach at the time, but MURLFC was at the top being Club Champions for 8 years from 1979 to 1987 (just missing out in 1985 to make it a clean sweep for 9 years).
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
There were too many good and talented players to single out an individual. As a coach in later years I recognised the best player as the person who contributed more than anyone else to the team performance.
Who is your favourite player of all time?
Mark Ella (Rugby Union)
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
In my time at the club there were many. "Matt the Rat", "Chunky", "Sammy", "Pinko", "Savage", "Tus", "Rank", "Willo", "Donny", "Stu", "Faulty", "Terry", "Steve", "Newk", "Ax", "Tomahawk", the Johnsons, "Nipper", "Ugly", "PJ", "Marty" ... there are so many more ... I can see their faces.
Funniest/most embarrassing moment at the Club?
Watching Savage try to live up to his legend reputation in the Old Boys vs The Players game for each year. "Tus" sleeping in his bowl of soup at a formal presentation dinner at Macquarie Uni. He was so pissed after drinking all afternoon. Saddest/soul destroying moment: A player dying through a head injury.
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
Several years in the Commonwealth Employment Service (CES ), 5 years as Manager, Management Development in the Sydney Water Board, 10 years as Senior Consultant / Project Director for the Australian Quality Council, with the last 15 years as the Managing Director of Toucan Resources Group Pty Ltd, a consulting business I set up to assist organisations in working with teams in implementing continuous improvement strategies.
Where are you now?
Still live in Epping. Same place for the past 32 years. Anne and I had Melanie in 1981, Adam in 1983 and Anthony in 1985. We celebrate our 42nd Wedding Anniversary this year (2015). We are proud grandparents to Jacob and a soon to be granddaughter.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
Getting involved with the club had been for me a chance event with life defining outcomes. At the start I saw how well the old boys (i.e. pre 1979 players - the real Club legends ) mentored the new Club members. John Pinkerton's leadership as President of the club from 1975 to 1981 was inspirational. I quickly became a part of the management of the club and got my Grade 3 Coaching Qualification under the legendary First Grade Coach, Jack Gibson. I then tried to apply the theory I had learnt in my Behavioural Science / Psychology Degree from Macquarie University in both managing a football club and coaching a team. For example, I naively tried 3 different management styles to coaching in the 3 years I was Third Grade Coach. Year 1 Autocratic, Year 2 Democratic, Year 3 Laissez - faire and not only got to understand the pros and cons of each management style but also when best and best not to use them. I learnt so much about leadership and team building. In 1984 Brian got me to give a few lectures to the First Grade team in the lead up to them playing the Grand Final. The focus was on team dynamics. I got a real buzz out of the guys giving me the nickname "professor" after these talks but the real pleasure was in watching how Brian got the guys to talk to and support each other in real stress and pressure situations (i.e. a knock on, fumble or dropped ball) rather than getting angry or finger pointing. They won the Grand Final. What I learnt at the Club gave me a thirst to train and consult with teams from management to employees and I have applied these skills in my employment over the last 30 years.
Terry 'Gummy' GUM
MURLFC CAREER 1979 - 1980, PREMIERSHIP COACH (THIRD GRADE)
Nickname: "Tigger"
Years played: 1979 - 1981
Team(s) supported: NSW Swifts netball, Queensland NRL- they have spirit and skills.
How did you first become involved with the Club?
Through Max Crawford who I had played rugby with at Eastwood.
Most memorable game you played in for Macquarie?
In 1980, Second Grade was doing well so towards the end of the year Sydney Uni ran their First Grade in Seconds to try and knock us off. After 15 minutes Macquarie Seconds led Sydney Firsts 21 -nil. I can't remember the final score but we were revved up and they knew it.
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
Mick Alldis
Favourite player of all time?
Wally Lewis
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
Terry "Tus" Murray, socially, as a coach and player- all round character.
Best off-field moment?
Bus trips to and from Bathurst with the teams.
Funniest moment at the Club?
Sharing the shower with Tony "Half Tooth" Carr.
Most embarrassing moment at the Club?
Not sure – I imagine there should be many, but i was probably too insensitive in those days to know that what i was doing was an embarrassment!
What are you doing now?
Married with kids and finally looking forward to retirement in late 2015.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
Great bunch of mates still.
MURLFC CAREER 1979 - 1981, SECOND ROW
Michael 'Tigger' KEELAN
Nicknames: '"Teddy"
Years played: 1980 - 1987
Team(s) supported: I have always supported the mighty St George Dragons.
How did you first become involved with the Club?
I came to the club in 1980. A former team mate at Five Dock RSL, Steve Daley, was already playing at Macquarie in 1979 and encouraged us to come along. Four former "Dockers", myself, my brother Peter Collins, Warwick Brown and Steve Gale came to the club the next year. We were to be the forerunners of about 15 players who would eventually come over from Five Dock to play for Macquarie in subsequent years.
Best game you've played in for Macquarie?
The most memorable game would have to be the club's first ever First Division Premiership in 1984. It was a terrific day and it was all the more special because it was played on the main oval at our home ground at Macquarie University. We were also playing our great rivals CCE. The University's Film School were there to record the event and the coverage and commentary they provided that day was excellent for the times. The club had been striving for that First Division win for a number of years, and we had had a few successes in the other Divisions, but that win that day was celebrated long and hard, and is still fondly remembered today.
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
This is a difficult question, as there really were so many good players at Macquarie. There were a number of former grade players as well as others who were up to that standard but who chose not to go that way. Players like Mick Alldis and Adrian Murray stand out, as do the Tamone brothers, Stephen and Michael, but for mine the best player I played with was Dave "Mongo" McElroy. Dave was a whole hearted player who left it all out on the field every time he went out to play. A tough running, tough tackling back rower he was a great player to have on your team. He was also captain of the teams I played with in the latter part of my involvement with the club. Dave was a three time Player of the Year for the Club, and that really says it all!
Favourite player of all time?
My favourite all time player was the great Graeme Langlands. Being a fullback he was my favourite player when I was growing up, and to this day I don't think I have seen a better footballer than him.
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
The memorable characters that come to mind include my good mate Jimmy "Chopper" Milone, Graham "The Newk" Hazel, Mal "The Prince of Centres" Sharp, Paul "Sammy" Sammany, Brenden "Big Bren" Casey, Paul "Grumbo" Grumly, Terry "Tus" Murray, Ernie Barberi, Chris "Steiny" Steinmetz, Michael "PJ" Tamone, Michael "Nipper" Alldis, Phil "Sod" Keady and our great supporter, Al "The Man" Curry.
Best off-field moment?
The best off-field memories are really about the social nights we would have after games either at the El Rancho Hotel, or at the Clubhouse at the University grounds. These were always great nights and would always include the presentation of awards to the best players in all grades for that day. Then it would be all about celebrating with the guys and their girlfriends or wives. The themed nights we would have in the Clubhouse were always very enjoyable. The Club was always very social which means we had the best of both worlds, great footy and a great social environment as well.
Funniest/most embarrassing moment at the Club?
My most embarrassing moment was during one of the above mentioned social nights at the Clubhouse after one of our games. After having a few amber liquids I was dancing on the bar late into the night. For some reason I thought it would be a good idea to grab hold of one of the rafters and swing out from the bar. In doing so my grip on the rafter beam slipped and I found myself tumbling to the ground neck first. People came rushing from everyone thinking I had broken my neck. Col Sherry, our hooker, was most concerned and was about to apply CPR, when I told him "Mate, don't worry, I'm alright. I've never been kissed by a hooker and I don't want to start now!"
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
I played football with Macquarie until I was 30 years of age. My last game was the 1987 First Division Grand Final, which we lost to old rivals CCE. I didn't see out that game and ended up in Prince of Wales Hospital with a nasty head gash which required a lot of stitches. After Macquarie I played a lot of Touch Football with the Hornsby Touch Football Association and later with the Western Suburbs Touch Football Club. I was still playing competitive touch footy into my early 50's, and nowadays still catch up with a lot of the Macquarie boys during the summer months in the Vince Farrar touch footy games at Meadowbank Park on a Monday night.
Where are you now?
Nowadays I am the Manager, Regional Services with the NSW Registry of Births Deaths & Marriages. I live in Dundas Valley and have been married to Marlene for 30 years. Marlene was one of the many girlfriends/wives who would come to watch us play footy every Saturday for Macquarie. We have three kids of whom we are immensely proud, Lisette 25, Bernadette 23, and Nathan 21.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
There were so many great people involved with the Club over the years in the roles of players, coaches and officials. It was an extremely well run club. The competition for playing positions was always strong with 4 grades playing in open age competitions. This brought out the best in the playing group and kept everyone on their toes. The culture of train hard, play hard and socialise hard, was ingrained into the club and was well received by all the players who passed through MURLFC. The success the Club had over the years, such as Grand Final wins in the various divisions, providing a host of representative players, as well as the numerous Club Championships, was indicative of the level of playing and coaching talent the club possessed. However, for all the success the club achieved down through the years, I think the greatest legacy is the many bonds of friendship it created which have continued to endure for decades. These friendships had their genesis on the training fields of Macquarie University, in playing for each other on game days, and in celebrating hard earned victories after games and proudly storing away priceless memories to be re-counted over a cold beer with former team mates many years later. If only we could do it all over again!
MURLFC CAREER 1980 - 1987, FULLBACK
Tony 'Teddy' COLLINS
A Nip of Rum
Brian Savage and I used to meet at his house before training on Tuesday and Thursday nights. As part of our anti cold-and-flu regime, we decided that a nip of OP rum before training might be helpful. Our coaches (Ron Wilson and Sid Kenny) didn't notice any dramatic improvement. Performance enhancing? Unlikely!
Circuit Training
Jimmy Doyle was a great thinking footballer, a conjurer, who could read the play and judge the pace of a game better than most. I watched him develop these skills at training during our many circuit-training sessions. As the sun went down and the mist circled, it seemed that Jimmy would magically disappear into the gloom on the far edge of the field on every second circuit then reconnect seamlessly to the end of the line as the team came around again. Paul Dolan was so impressed that he often stayed with Jimmy to learn the skill!
Dolly Magazine
The team appeared In Dolly Magazine in 1970 as a fundraiser for the club. We dressed in our football gear, made the models feel welcome (some players were exceptional in this regard) and followed instructions from the photographers. Our delusion was that the magazine wanted a group of rugged league players for the shoot. The reality was that they liked the colour of the jerseys!
The Yass 21st
Our fullback, Glen Brown, was having a 21st party in the shed on his parents' property near Yass. Building team spirit was crucial, so we dressed up in suits and headed off. The fact that our suits and hats were 1920s gangster style didn't impress the locals greatly when we wandered into the public bar in Yass. We survived, just!
Swimming the Molongolo
The Queanbeyan Leagues Club had provided us with dormitory accommodation. We were there to play the curtain-raiser to the combined Australian Universities match. Mark Lucas and Greg Wade saw an opportunity for some extra training ... by swimming across the river (late at night and in the middle of winter!). They survived.
Intervarsity in Queensland
Part of our preparation included a very slow overnight train trip from Sydney to Brisbane. No sleeper cabins or healthy meals ... just 18 hours of sitting/leaning/standing. We played cards, had a few beers and talked. When exhaustion took over, Djon Mundine curled up in the luggage rack and others slept on the floor in the passage way. When we ran onto the Queensland University field, our studs clattered on the rock-hard ground. Soon after, Roger Kilby's head bounced off the ground and he was taken off with concussion. When I left the field later in the game after breaking my nose, Roger and I caught a cab to the hospital. We eventually got back to our rooms where our team mates were re-hydrating! We survived!
The Noseguard and the Grand Final
When the noseguard prototype was suggested as protective gear for my broken nose, I thought it was worth a try. Apart from the discomfort of the aluminium insert, I was a little concerned that it would be like wearing a target. This proved to be true in the grand final against Sydney University at David Phillips Field. Early in the game, one of the Uni players aimed his forehead at my noseguard and connected. By the time I came around in the sheds, the noseguard was gone and the Uni player had left the ground with a broken arm after two of our forwards completed a dominant tackle!
SELECTIVE MEMORIES FROM JOHN "JIMMY" REID 1969 - 1971
John 'Jimmy' REID
Nickname: "Spammy"
Years played: 1982 - 1984. I retired when we won the First Grade premiership in 1984.
Team(s) supported: Wests Tigers
How did you first become involved with the Club?
Ben de Palo dragged me down to club to play and be involved.
Most memorable game you played in for Macquarie?
Scoring a try in Bathurst against Mitchell College. Winning 1984 Grand Final First Grade.
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
Paul Cooney and Tim O'Brien.
Best off field memory?
Erotic nights...
Funniest/most embarrassing moment at the Club?
Geoff Brown handing me a frog to wash myself when I had soap in my eyes.
Favourite player(s) of all time?
Steve Roach
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
Mark Lucas
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
After leaving the Club I became Australian and NSW co-ordinator for the Universities' organised Tour to New Zealand and the curtain raiser at Lang Park to Australia vs New Zealand.
Where are you now?
Married. Work for Australian Taxation Office
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
Had great time club built on mateship and made plenty of contacts. Winning the Club Championship for seven years in a row and having four grades in three divisions spells success, great morale and mateship at Macquarie University in golden years - also players making representative teams and officials being recognised by the University.
Paul'Spammy' SAMANY
MURLFC CAREER 1970 - 1988, CLUB PLAYER, VICE PRESIDENT AND PRESIDENT
Nicknames: My Macquarie nickname was "Rusty" because I got into everyone’s cars (I didn’t own a car)
Years played: 1972-73
Team(s) supported: I barrack for the Wests Tigers but mostly I just enjoy good rugby league whoever plays it.
How did you first become involved with the Club?
I began studying at Macquarie University and joined the rugby league club. I remember turning up at the first Tuesday night training session. Someone, probably Brian Savage, said “We better show him an EBA. I said “What’s an EBA?” Next thing I’m buried under a scrum of clutching hands….Scarred me for life! I remember the coach took great satisfaction in running us hard until Kevin Liggett threw up his dinner which happened nearly every training session, fairly early on.
Most memorable game you played in for Macquarie?
There’s a few: Our great battles with Alexander Mackie Teachers College. Narrow losses to them in two Grand Finals are bitter memories. I remember a bottle of port being handed around in the dressing for a swig and some dutch courage before one grand final. It may not have helped. Playing the Pacific islanders of ASOPA (Australian School of Pacific Administration) at Middle Head in Mosman in the army precinct was novel. A game at Newcastle Teachers College the day after our captain Kevin Liggett got married. Kevin was unavailable for the game having begun his honeymoon. As we were about to run into the field in Newcastle, suddenly Kevin’s old green ford roared into the ground leaving a dustcloud in the air. He jumped out and raced onto the field ready to play. 80 minutes later as the full time whistle sounded he ran from the field, jumped back into the car with his bride, and took off like a drag racer to continue the honeymoon.
Who is the best player you've played with at Macquarie?
Kevin Liggett
Who is your favourite player of all time?
There are too many but if I have to pick one: Artie Beetson.
Who were the most memorable character(s) at the Club?
Mark Lucas, Brian Savage and Al Cory are hard to beat but there are many contenders.
What is your best off-field memory?
Beers, laughs and sing-a-longs after games in dressing rooms, the El Rancho or pubs at away games (like the Oaks at Neutral Bay and one opposite Sydney Uni on Parramatta Road), and parties at places like Rugby House on Culloden Road. It’s interesting the Macquarie teams were named after the nearby roads at Marsfield which were named after battles: Balaclava and Culloden. I wonder who chose the names for the teams.
What would be your funniest/most embarrassing moment at the Club?
The lines blur between the fun had with the Macquarie club members, the Savage-led El Rancho gang and Marist Brothers Eastwood old boys who were all intertwined. I will admit to regularly dancing on the tables at the El Rancho to the Neil Sedaka song “Oh Carol”, I will admit to being drunk and helped onto a night-train to the Snowy Mountains after a party, possibly a buck’s night, at Rugby House. However I will only admit to witnessing, not participating in, brown eyes along Military Road on Sunday afternoons coming home from the beach. I also remember a sausage fight that broke out at the club room at the Macquarie dressing sheds. Someone found a stack of sausages left over from a barbecue and next thing there was a food fight with sausages flying everywhere. For years afterwards, one of the pictures on the wall was graced with a piece of ever-darkening sausage.
What did you go on to do after leaving Macquarie?
Career-wise I was a science teacher for two years, then moved into broadcasting at Radio 2SM. Football wise, after two years with Macquarie as a half-back and making the University Cup Representative Team, the University Cup President Vic Saunders encouraged me to trial for First Grade. In 1974 I joined St George Dragons where I found myself on the wing, then I had 3 years with the Balmain Tigers, and five years with Western Suburbs Magpies.
What are you doing now?
I moved to Brisbane in 1985 to join ABC Sport where in two stints with ABC TV and Radio I worked for 26 years. I also had two years at Fox Sports. Along the way I’ve been lucky enough to go to five Olympic Games - as a commentator not a competitor! Two years ago I was made redundant by the ABC. Now I am freelancing – doing some work for Radio 4BC, some overseas trips to sporting games like the Asian Games, and recently tutoring in journalism at QUT. I married a Brisbane girl Sandra in 1993 and we have four girls aged 11-21. Remarkably I have now lived in Brisbane for as many years as I lived in Sydney. No, I do not support Queensland in State of Origin.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
When I joined Macquarie I was 18 and just out of school. Most of the other players were several years older than me especially the ring-leaders. I was introduced to a new world of mateship, team spirit, great fun, loyalty, characters, generosity and a love of playing the game on and off the field. I loved it. I was introduced to the lyrics of songs I had never heard before and also introduced to alcohol. I drank too much too quickly too often but luckily survived that first year or two and by the time I had enough money to buy a shout instead of ducking them I had a better idea of how many schooners made a hangover. My time playing at Macquarie also proved to be a stepping stone to a career in top-grade rugby league which then led to a career in the media but more importantly I learned to value team spirit and friendship, something I’ve carried with me ever since. I treasure the time I had at Macquarie Uni - both the university and the rugby league club. I met life-long friends at both. Because I live in Brisbane and worked weekends over the years I have rarely been able to attend reunions in Sydney. Earlier in 2015 the players of my era got together. It was a tremendous thrill and joy to see everyone again and as is the case with good mates, it only takes a minute and you take up the conversations and the jokes like it was yesterday, not 40 years ago.
MURLFC CAREER 1972-73, HALFBACK, 36 GAMES, 15 TRIES, 1 GOAL, 47 POINTS
Warren 'Rusty' BOLAND
Nicknames: "Boris"
Years played:1984 to 1992 inclusive
What position(s) did you play? Every position in the backline, but preferred halfback
Team(s) supported: Balmain/West Tigers
How did you first become involved with the Club?
Mates form school were playing there.
What was the most memorable game you played in for Macquarie?
1988 Final against University of NSW
Best off field memory?
The trips away to play Bathurst, Newcastle and Wollongong.
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
David McElroy
Who is your favourite player of all time?
Hard to say, But Steve Rogers from Cronulla was a great footballer.
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
Jimmy Milone, Bernie Perkins ,Greg Curry and Paul Grumley.
Funniest/most embarrassing moment at the Club?
Too Many to mention but probably something involving Terry Murray.
Where are you now?
I live at Lalor Park and work for a Solicitors office in Sydney and have a daughter 20 and a son 17.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
It was a fantastic place to play with a lot of great blokes who I have unfortunately lost touch with over the years. I think the best thing was the fact that all grades mixed well together.
MURLFC CAREER 1984 - 1992, HALFBACK
Anthony 'Boris' PALMER
Nicknames: "Jimmy"
Years played: 1968 until 1977
Team(s) supported: Balmain Tigers
What was the most memorable game you played in for Macquarie?
The loss of the first Grand Final to Sydney University. We had been undefeated and Uni seemed to have a bunch of new players especially for the Final.
Best off field memory?
The Trip to Brisbane
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
Kevin Liggett
Who is your favourite player of all time?
Arthur Beetson and Tommy Bishop
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
Mick Lound, Teddy Bennell, Roger Kilby and Mark Lucas.
Funniest/most embarrassing moment at the Club?
The funniest sight was seeing Paul Dolan break into the clear at Clempton Park. It only ever happened once and you had to be there. Despite all the swivels and steps he was gathered in within about 25 metres.
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
Teaching
Where are you now?
Semi-retired, doing a bit of consultancy and on a couple of volunteer boards. A grandfather twice over and still married to Christine after 43 years.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
I enjoyed my years at Macquarie. Many friendships there continued from school and are still very important to me today. When I see people from that era I find the connection is still there.
MURLFC CAREER 1968 - 1977
Jim 'Jimmy' DOYLE
Nicknames: "Bevesy"
Years played: 1989 - 1995 (I think)
Team(s) supported: Wests Tigers
How did you first become involved with the Club?
Through friends who played.
Most memorable game you played in for Macquarie?
Probably a night game at Macquarie Uni against our Third Grade Team (I played Fourth Grade). I scored a try late in the game to draw then I missed the goal attempt to complete the upset!
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
John Pinkerton
Favourite player of all time?
Benji Marshall
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
Tuss, Sammy, Matt the Rat
Best off-field moment?
I guess the “culture nights” at the clubhouse.
Funniest moment at the Club?
As above!
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
Football-wise - retired. Got married. Had kids.
What are you doing now?
Married, 3 kids, work in Gladesville as Woodmachinist, live in Denistone East.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
Playing footy at Macquarie University was a fantastic experience with a great bunch of fellas some who I still see to this day. Probably the best part was the social side of things.
Rick 'Bevesy' BEVES
MURLFC CAREER 1989 - 1995, WINGER
LIFE MEMBER
BEST PLAYER AWARD
CLUBMAN AWARD
CLUB COLOUR
UNIVERSITY BLUE
Kevin has been Macquarie's most acclaimed player. He scored 438 points in nine seasons, a club and competition record. Kevin was a brilliant backline player who served the Club very well. Throughout his career Kevin was involved with the Committee and administration. He was either a general committeeman or Club treasurer up until 1977. He was named Clubman of the Year in 1970. After retiring in 1978 Kevin became a referee with the University Cup, a position he handled well. Kevin has kept up his association with Macquarie right throughout and was made a Life Member in 1979.
MURLFC CAREER 1970 - 1978, FIVE EIGHT, CENTRE, FULLBACK, 141 GAMES, 64 TRIES, 12 GOALS, 4 FIELD GOALS, 438 POINTS
Kevin LIGGETT (RIP)
Don was inducted into the Life Members' Club in 1983. Don was both a player and Committeeman, but contributed to the Club in a different way from many of the other Life Members. He was the first person to take a serious interest in injury treatment and prevention. Don was a trainer with Western Suburbs, McMahons Point, Macquarie, and Eastern Suburbs. Over the years he gave up much of his spare time to help the many players who were injured. He was one of the Club's most loyal supporters for many years, as a player, administrator, masseur, trainer, manager, spectator and supporter since 1975. In 1983 Don was awarded a Club Colour by the University for outstanding services to rugby league.
Don GORMAN
MURLFC CAREER 1975 - 1980, PROP FORWARD, 38 GAMES, 2 GOALS, 4 POINTS
Nickname: In my very early salad days, at the Club, I was sometimes called “The Body” as I was known for ‘parading/strutting’ around the dressing room nude pretending that I had the physique of a “Mr. World Body Builder” and towel whipping my mates. However, in later days as a player I was sometimes called Mr. Magic and/or Joe Cool for my football talent (?) and also my ‘stylish sense/trendy attire’ off the field?
Years played: I played from 1969 to 1978 and took up coaching at the Club in 1979 to 1984 and was Club President from 1986 to 1988. In 1987 and 1988 I went to North Sydney to coach their President Cup sides.
Team(s) supported: I follow West Tigers in Rugby League, Eastwood Rugby Union Club, the Waratahs and Wallabies in Rugby Union and the Swans in AFL.
How did you first become involved with the Club?
John “Jimmy” Reid lobbed around to my place one very hot Sunday morning and got me out of bed to play in a game for an initial trial game for the club in the North Sydney Rugby League under 19 Competition. I wanted to go to the beach but Jimmy persuaded me to go to the trial and play in a ‘nauseating heat wave’ somewhere around the Asquith area. Jimmy had promised to take me to the beach after the game but we were too exhausted and bruised from the game, having not trained at all, so we went to our local pub, The El Rancho. Most of the guys that played in that first Macquarie trial were ex Marist Brothers Eastwood (MBE) students. We had played the previous season for St Anthony’s Catholic Church Marsfield in the Balmain Rugby League competition. At Macquarie ex MBE school mates were playing together again. We had met up in primary school, went through to Year 12 and were again playing football, then going onto each other’s 21st, engagements and weddings.
Most memorable game you played in for Macquarie?
One of the most memorable games for me was the game against ASOPA, a team from Papua New Guinea, in the early years of the University Cup. Jack Rodwell still has vivid memories of my sledging the opposition and repeatedly gaining penalties against them by catching them offside. The game saw several brawls (Bring back the Biff) and was eventually called off by the referee. Some opposition players and their supporters ‘wrongly’ accused me of being the main culprit in the game been abandoned. From memory we were awarded the game because of our commanding lead. Another memorable game, and for all the wrong reasons, was losing our first Grand Final in 1970 against Sydney University who “stacked’ their side with ring-ins from their second division side.
Best player you've played with at Macquarie?
I have to pick 3 players Kevin Liggett, Paul Cooney and Warren Boland who were named in my Super 13 side in 1988. As I use to tell them “I taught them everything they knew about football but I didn’t teach them everything I knew about football”?
Best off field memory?
Two come quickly to mind and they both were after our first Grand Final win in Second Grade on 16 August 1980 and our first ever First Grade Grand Final win on 25 August 1984. It was the celebrations after the game in the dressing rooms that all players, officials, supporters, wives and girlfriends that went on and on in a carnival atmosphere of festivities and dare I say relief. World War 3 could have broken out and we would not have known.
Funniest/most embarrassing moment at the Club?
I didn’t think it was funny at the time but I was concussed playing NSW University at David Phillip’s Oval and was taken to hospital by ambulance. I wakened from my concussion in the ambulance to see Cocky Kilby combing his hair in anticipation that he would meet nurses to prey upon, he having no considerations to my serious life threatening injury. But I excused Cock’s behaviour, as the previous season he had been injured in a MURLFC IV game in Brisbane with a ‘bruised brain” and he was never the same again.
Favourite player(s) of all time?
Noel Kelly and Tom Raudonikis, 2 former Wests players, were my favourite players.
Most memorable character(s) at the Club?
Several come to mind and it would be errant of me not to mention them:
Theo Burgess turned the Club around in the mid 1970’s with his definitive and professional approach to his strategic coaching methods, absolute standard of training, officialdom and obtaining sponsorship for the Club. Mark Lucas always said that the Club had 2 defining eras (BT and AT, being Before Theo and After Theo).
John Pinkerton, who was originally from Sydney University, saw the light (Macquarie University’s insignia) and crossed over to our Club. Not only was JP a great footballer but a gifted administrator and Club President. Both Theo and John revolutionized the Club on and off the field to make it the most dominant club of the late 1970’s and 1980’s.
Another memorable character and never to be forgotten is Mark Lucas. Mark appeared in our first Dolly Magazine spread, played Front Row against much bigger players and never took a back step. He could always be relied upon to be first to take the ball up and take on any opposition pack. He was also renowned as the Club’s standup comedian and would bring tears to your eyes re his made up lyrics of Macquarie player’s versions of The Scaffold’s Lily the Pink as we would sing the chorus response. After games, when we would go to pubs and wine bars where Mark was legendary at closing time for standing on garbage cans with his own inebriated ‘Fire and Brimstone’ sermons on the evils of drink, drugs, sex and rock and roll. Crowds would evolve from nowhere to listen to his sermon and encouraged by drunken revellers he would attempt to lead them away from the path to Hell. Mark loved a crowd. He was also the Club’s dedicated doyenne Brown Eye specialist with 2 cheeky grins in one flash.
Another of his neurosis characters was Quasimodo, the hunch back of Notre Dame. Mark would terrorize cafes, pubs, restaurant patrons at any time of the day or night, with a football up the back of his jersey with or without shorts; hilarious stuff right out of Candid Camera.
What did you do after leaving Macquarie?
After we won the First Grade in 1984 I took the 1985 season off. In 1986 and 1987 I was appointed North Sydney’s President Cup Coach. In my first season of 1986 we were 3rd last but at least beat Manly in the competition ladder and in the Manly vs North Sydney game. In the 1987 season we were undefeated in all our trials, undefeated Minor Premiers but lost the Grand Final as a curtain raiser to the State Of Origin one dark and stormy night at the SCG. In 1989 and 1990 I was appointed Head Coach of all North Sydney Junior Representative teams which included President Cup, Jersey Flegg, S G. Ball and Harold Matthews competitions. I continued working at Custom Credit till 1993 and after some years as a senior consultant with CBA set up my own company KateAnn (FS) Pty Ltd which still operates today.
Where are you now?
I am still consulting within the Australian Receivables Risk Management environment and currently living in Melbourne with my loving partner Lesley. I tell Lesley, my best friend, every day that she has won Lotto since she met me.
What did it mean for you to be involved with the Club?
Not knowing where Jimmy Reid’s abduction of me to play in Macquarie’s first trial would turn out, it came to pass to be a rewarding, inspirational and elevating journey. Firstly, to link up with old school mates Jimmy Reid, Jimmy Doyle, Paul Dolan, Kevin Liggett and host of ex MBE students who either played football or supported the teams on Game Day and at functions. By chance we met other students from Marist Brothers North Sydney (read Mark Lucas) and other University students needing to play football. Neale Chapple and John Rodwell were the ‘brains’ behind the formation and future development of the Club while the ‘riff raff’, myself included, played football and partied on. Kevin Liggett was our first Captain-Coach but handed over the coaching stewardship to Ron Wilson, then followed Sid Kenny and Rod Harding before Theo Burgess.
I started coaching at Macquarie in 1979 with Second Grade and we won our first ever Grand Final with Second Grade in 1980. Referring back to our 1980 Grand Final win we were locked at 9 all at full time and played an extra 20 minutes to win 22-9. After being thrashed in the 1979 Grand Final the 1980 win was inspiring and outstanding from the team and captain Tony Carr. In 1981 I was promoted to First Grade Coach with the support of John Pinkerton, Geoff Brown and Terry Gum, what faith those 3 guys had in me? I coached First Grade from 1981 to 1984.
By end 1984 after winning our first ever First Grade premiership we had won the University Cup Club Championship for 6 consecutive years, 3 premierships, the 1980 2nd Grade Grand Final, coach Terry Gum and captain Jeff Towers 1981 3rd Grade undefeated premiers and the 1984 First Grade premiership. In all my 6 consecutive years coaching at Macquarie my sides reached the semi-finals each year, won 2 pre-season competitions, won 4 minor premierships and 2 first ever premierships. In essence this was achieved firstly with countless talented footballers, distinguished and impressive captains such as Tony Carr, Adrian Murray and Steve Tamone, other gifted coaches like Tus Murray, Terry Gum, Ian Geddes and Kevin Mc Garrity, our administration committees led by John Pinkerton and Terry Gum and of course all our supporters. I do have to mention the girlfriends and wives that attended all our games and somehow are still married to their guy today. To all other supporters thank you for your years of patronage and reinforcement of our goals.
Macquarie University RLFC gave me the opportunity to link up with old school mates, meet and befriend impressive new contacts (male and female) and chase a dream of winning premierships while having copious amount of fun, laughter and partying. Though on very rare occasions my twin brother still appears, usually after mid night drink in hand, to continue causing havoc to anyone and everyone. All those years as a player helped me develop coaching skills that I have continued tapping into my business and personal life. In essence I shared my late teenage and early 20’s years in helping the Club become established and creating a niche for Macquarie University and the University Cup competition whilst seeing many mates and their wives have successful marriages and business ventures.
In conclusion I have to respectfully mention players and supporters that I know of, who have passed away.
Tony Monago (Player)
Warwick Bolton (Player)
Paul Gleeson (Player)
Wendy Lucas (Wife of Mark Lucas)
Kevin Liggett (An immortal Super 13 Player, Captain-Coach)
Ron Wilson (Coach)
Ann Brown (Wife of Geoff Brown)
Geoff Brown (Captain-Coach, Senior Committee Member)
MURLFC CAREER 1969 - 1984, FIVE EIGHT / LOCK / FULLBACK, 132 GAMES, 27 TRIES, 3 GOALS, 87 POINTS, PREMIERSHIP COACH (FIRST GRADE)
Brian'The Body' SAVAGE
SUPER XIII
