General Interest Archives - Merewether Carlton Rugby Club

A TRIBUTE TO CHISEL

Posted on April 10, 2025 by Merewether.6523

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
Last week Merewether Carlton lost one of our legends, Steve ‘Chisel’ Gill. Player number 1205 who sadly passed away on Sunday the 30th of March.

Chisel was inducted as a Life Member in 1986 & as mentioned this week in one of our shared club chats, if there was ever a person that should be nominated twice, Chisel would be at the top of the list. The amount of additional work he’s done since being elected as a Life Member is astonishing.

Since the 1970’s, Chisel has been supporting our players being there for you in some way. Some played Rugby with him, some were coached by him, some just knew him as a friendly face to have a beer with.

He was always the first guy to put his hand up to take on a task, first guy at gameday & last to leave, always hanging around the ground keeping an eye on everything. He was in his element running the clubs Rugby Operations, managing the coaches & joking around with the playing group.

In recent years, Chisel did so much silent work in the background. Recruiting talent, finding jobs for new players to the club, ensuring our PPS was covered, helping with our international transfers & working with Slicer on our Anzac Day stories & player history.  He didn’t want accolades, a medal, a thank you beer or anything. He just wanted to help & this leaves a massive hole in our club!

He genuinely loved being around the club. It was a second family to him. His dry humour & ability to take the piss out of others, along with himself will definitely be missed at our club. The videos, photos and stories being told in the background since the news broke are hilarious. He was loved by many!

Family History as told by Steve’s brother, Michael.
“Chisel was born at Merewether ‘Hillcrest’ Hospital to parents Nola and Wally.  Wally Gill, player #483 played for Carlton in 1945 to 1947 as did most of his mates. Nola’s brother Jack Jones, #542 also played for the greens between 1946 & 1950. Merewether life, everyone knew each other and it was like one big village. You were either between the surf club or the rugby club and life was good. Steve attended Boys High which was a selective boys school along with other rugby mates from the Greens.”

Chisel’s career in Green. Thanks to the efforts of Steve ‘Slicer’ Frost, Chisel’s statistics and history partner:  

Playing career

Started in 1968 as a junior playing grade, with his last game in 1986.
56 – 1st grade games
81 – 2nd grade,
45 – 3rd grade,
34 – 4th grade &
2 – Presidents Cup – totalling 218 games

Coaching career

U16 in 1980
U18 in 1981 & 1992
1st Grade in 1984 & 85

Official Positions held

Secretary 1972, 1973, 2018, 2019
Committee member 1987, 2014, 2015, 2016
Football Manager 2014 to 2020
Honorary Solicitor 1990 to 1998
Insurance Committee Secretary 1971, 1972, 1973
Offsider to Registrar for player points calculations – since inception

Unofficial Positions

Historical researcher – armed services connections
Compiler & checker of historical records for player games etc
Mentor
Friend
Supporter

Chisel, you will be sorely missed.

RIP.

Luke Tresidder, President

FROM SONYA X
Since hearing the news of the loss of my mate Steve ‘Chisel’ Gill I have been in shock and deeply saddened. The club has lost a great man who worked tirelessly in the front office of the club and in more recent years behind the scenes to ensure all players were looked after on and off the field.

What most don’t know is that he still made sure that our out-of-town players had homes, had furniture, a means to get around and he also helped look after their fees where he could. You have no idea the amount of work that man did to make sure our players were on the park game 1 last year and even this year. He was trying to teach me everything PPS but I needed more lessons, contrary to belief he was very patient with teaching me the club admin part.

Personally, I have lost a best friend, a mentor, and my special consultant on all things MCRC. He taught me that the most important thing we need to remember about the club is the objects of our club which is in some of the first words of our Constitution, is that we are a football club for football players and without them we don’t have a purpose or objective (obviously not word for word). He said we are here to remember our traditions and the spirit of our club and look after each other, I couldn’t agree more. He taught me what it meant to be part of the ‘old boys’ club and it is now our job to look after the next generation coming through.

He is one of the people who I owe my Life Membership nomination to, which I will be forever grateful. I am going to miss Saturday morning pre-game coffee and cake dates with my favourite old boys Chisie and Cannons, our grand final breakfasts, me crashing old boys Friday night beers down at the bowlo and our general chit chat. I won’t see you pull up outside my house with forms or something that needs to be done for the greater good of the club and I won’t be able to call you for advice or even just a lift somewhere and that’s what I’ll miss the most. My apprenticeship under you was cut short but rest assured you have instilled the Greens spirit within me to carry on the legacy. Rest easy my friend.

Sonya Chapman, Secretary

FROM THE PLAYERS
Many stories can be shared about chisel. But we will just share a few times he was the butt our jokes and still always had the time of day for us.

Like the many times we stole and hid his car after games, the many times we’d tell him we’d accidentally broken the Hawthorne cup and that we needed his help to sort it out, all for him to just meet us at the Burwood with nothing broken and too just end up calling us a**holes and having beers with us. We’d tell him we had a new player to meet all for him to show at the Burwood with no new player, but he’d just call us names again, then still stay and have beers with us. We’d ring him as we saw him drive past and tell him he had a flat tyre and to turn around and we’d help fix it, all for him to have no flat tyre call us **sholes and end up having beers with us.

There’s 1000 more stories but in the end he’d always be there for us with anything we needed whether it was helping us with football, finding jobs, places to live or just to come and share stories with us. Always had time for all the players.

I don’t who’s going to damage club cars now but they have big shoes to fill.  He’ll be badly missed by all that knew him and will leave a massive hole in Merewether Carlton.
We love you mate Billy Dunn, Sam Rouse, Lachlan Miller and Jason Milligan

CHISEL – FROM MICHAEL DAN
Chisel held a grudge, was combative, disrespectful, short and argumentative.

That was if you disagreed with his mantra. His mantra was that the club is there for the players, and without the players, there is no club.

Everything should be done for the players, to give the players a better experience. If you were in a position of power at the club, and you acted in a way against this mantra, Chisel let you know about it and would hold you accountable. The Burwood and the green room don’t mean much without the players there to fill it.

He simply wanted others to have the same experience that he had at the greens. The greens had a profound impact on his life, and he wanted to ensure the club functioned in a way to give a similar experience to anyone else who came to the club.

I met Chisel when I started coaching at the greens in 2013. I never heard about his own accomplishments as a player or coach, he was more than qualified to give an opinion, but never did. He simply showed up, shit got done, and he never asked for a thank you.

‘Seek first to understand, not to be understood’. Many would think this doesn’t apply to Chisel, but he never forced an opinion on me. Chisel would come to me with grumblings of others, ask for more information, ‘don’t worry, I’ll sort them/it out’. He fought many fights for me, and would take and throw a punch without me asking.

‘Mick, things would be easier for you to just apologise, but if you don’t feel you can, f&%$ the c*&%$ and I’ll back you’,

When I moved to Sydney for orthopaedic training, Chisel was the one checking in on me. Somehow he knew when life was throwing me a curve ball, and he was there for a coffee, a beer or a phone call, and he kept checking in on me till I was back on track.

During one low point, I expressed a need to get back into exercise, but I struggled to get into normal gym opening hours with work and how I needed to send time with William when I got home. All of a sudden I was given a key to the gym. I would finish work, wherever I was, grab William, and spend my hour of free time from 8-9pm or so with my son working out. This gave me the confidence to try playing again. When a committee member took the key off me for the club(themselves), all of a sudden another key miraculously (there was only 8 or so apparently) turned up and allowed me the ability to rehab from my shoulder surgery.

I love the dressing room- physically exhausted, it is a place and a time in life where you experience true raw emotion- both good and bad, my favourite destination. 10 years after trying, I was finally involved in a winning 1st grade side. Sharing a beer with Chisel, who had been side by side with me on that journey, in the winning dressing room is one of my great life memories.

Despite the age difference, Chisel was one of my best mates, a true friend, who I could always count on, even when I didn’t know I needed him.

My life is better because of him.

I’ll miss him as I face new challenges in life, and wish he was there to experience the joy of the good times with me as well.

Michael Dan

FROM THE “OLD BOYS”
(Peter “Jinx” Davis, Col Dixon, Peter Alcock, Geoff Padgett, Hugh Williams, Brian Fisher, Peter Prince, Steve Davis, Steve “Lightening” Rich and many more).

The relationship between Chisel and the ‘old boys’ began in high school. He began high school later in the school year than most, turning up to Newcastle Boys High in his boater hat which got him noticed and into a brouhaha with Peter Prince. Since this day, they became best of friends. Peter blames Chisel for his ability to spew, Chisel started, and he followed suit following their many nights out.

Many more friendships were made through the involvement with Merewether Surf Club. Peter ‘Jinx’ Davis had put many of the boys through their bronze medallion, safe to say the beaches of Merewether were safe in the 60s and 70s with this lot on patrol.

A great memory recalled was a sanction letter received from the Board of the Surf Club for an incident involving Chisel, Jinx, Peter Alcock, John Adamson and Steve “Lightening” Rich. The incident involved an old surf boat that the boys decided to take out for a few waves off the rocks of Merewether which resulted in them facing charges of ‘deserting the said vessel on route to land’. Their punishment was a few additional patrols and selling raffle tickets at the Beaches Hotel.

The boys continued their friendships at Merewether Carlton Rugby club all donning the Green and White to play for our mighty club. They recall many bus trips where overalls were essential and a trip to the local hardware shop was needed before trips to get the equipment for the ‘pissaphone’. If you don’t know what this is, just ask one of the old boys.

Stories were told about Chisel living in one of the club’s houses which was renown for mischief and players up to no good, one night even hosting a Hungi. This night may have involved motorbikes jumping kegs and jumping trees which ultimately resulted in Chisel being evicted.

Their friendships further cemented following the birth of their children with many nights spent up at Boomerang Caravan Park making memories and raising their children together. It was here that the annual golf event, the Great Lakes Open was born. The tournament carrying on for 23 years with Chisel being the main organiser of the event. This was filled with seafood, kegs and shenanigans. One year even donning some F-Troop apparel with the 2 bears as their logo “Turn left at bear that look like rock – turn right at rock that look like bear…”. Many saying that Chis was an F-Troop fanatic and found this hilarious.

What many didn’t know was that Chisel was not only a Surf Life Saver and a Rugby Player but a keen golfer and a basketball player. A jack of all sports by the sound of things. Rugby is where he shined, playing in Canberra for a few years with Wests Rugby where he won a premiership and played with some former Wallabies, John Weatherstone being one. His connections remain until this day.

Through his rugby days there are many stories of his procurement of opposition apparel, there’s no guessing how many jerseys or kits he actually had! One story in particular standing out was on a Golden Oldies tour in the UK following all matches, an announcement came over the PA system letting people know that there were many jumpers left in the large shared central change room. Well peaking interest, a few went to have a look what was there, only to find Chisel with 5 jumpers already under his arms. Another memory is the times Steve Davis and Chisel would travel to watch their sons Brad and Michael play in the Country representative squads, each taking turns to drive to the next region. Michael recalling there was rarely a time where he didn’t pull a kit from out of under his seat as a trophy. One time he even had the ceremonial blazer of the opposition, still not knowing how he got it as there was a presentation after that game and the team were all wearing them when they left! Legend.

Although their playing days are long over and their kids are all grown now, the “Old Boys” still gather at the “Table of Knowledge” at Dixon Park Surf Club or at the Merewether Bowlo on a Friday or Saturday night. It is here that they continued the traditions of ripping on each other and talking s**t over a coffee or a beer. Padgo no longer having to be embarrassed by his chief marketing manager for his building of all things wooden in his shed and being hassled about the “shared boat”; and Col and Louise no longer having to look out for their immaculate lawn for the dog digging holes, It is tough news to take losing a life long mate and sharing so many good times and memories.

Reminiscing about the times had, has been hard for everyone but also good to share some of the memories of the good times over the years. The old boys saying that Chisel took on the persona of the much-respected Spider Clarke who Chisel adored. He was cranky, spikey prickly but had a heart of gold. Chisel and Spider are top tier Life Members and compare to no other for what they have done for others in the club. Farewell our friend, you will be dearly missed.

MESSAGES OF MEMORIES & CONDOLENCES
Chisel was our first-grade coach. It was truly a memorable experience. Chise’s half-time talks to the team were a combination of his trademark short and straight forward no bull**it language and half a packet of durrys while doing it. his use of the English language to describe your performance could only be delivered by Chisel. If we did have a win at the end of the game his simple words in the sheds were ‘I f**ken told you blokes didn’t I”. Truly great memories of a great clubman – Martin “Swanny” Swan.

Chisel was certainly a Greens legend who made huge contributions to our Club over so many years. Condolences to all the Gill family – John Davis

Every so often a person comes along and makes a difference and Chisel you did. This club would not be the club it is now if you were not a part of it – Garry Back

Like Swanny, I recall Chisel coaching us in first grade in the mid 80’s. The most memorable things were the unrecognisable training drills he made us do and no one knew what the hell we were doing or why. And neither did Chisel and there in lay the problem.

I do not however that in the last few years it was Chisel that took the time out to contact me and others to assist in getting jobs or contacts for guys that were new to the club. This played a big part in cementing their loyalty and genuine commitment to the Greens and the comradery it offers.

I’m sure when Chisel in the past relieved all of the teams of their kit it was out of a sense of community and sharing. That sense lived on until the end. RIP Chisel – Bob Hawes

I remember when I first started playing senior rugby with the Greens thinking how old Chisel and the other blokes of that vintage were. I was away from the Green family for soe time and when I returned in 2021 to become involved with senior rugby, Chisel was still there and it was like nothing had changed. I also reflected that he wasn’t that old given I am not nearing 60. Lat last year Chisel gave me a call and he asked that Swanny and myself consider taking over the club records given that Slicer and himself were getting older. It was an honour for me to think a bloke like Chisel would consider me worthy to do the job. I didn’t expect him to be gone this quick and wished I had more time to appreciate the work he has done to keep records for this great club. RIP mate your legacy won’t be forgotten. – Marc ‘Reggi’ or as Chisel remembered me ‘Bunsen’ Knight

There are many stories of Chisel’s procurement skills on football trips. Representative jumpers from the SCG, booze from the Tall Timbers Ourimbah are 2 examples that immediately spring to mind. RIP Chis and condolences to the Gill Family – James Garis

My condolences Mick and family. He was my first junior coach, first 1st grade coach and provided durrys to the whole 1st grade backline late at night in the early 80s.

Chisel was given the name by his early employer Bruce O’Sullivan on the basis he only worked when you hit him. Many great memories of your dad growing up and as a mate later. He will be missed – Michael ‘Oso’ O’Sullivan

Melissa and I send our condolences to the Gill family. He was a Greens legend & will be a massive loss to the club – Greg Milton.

RIP Chisel. Always selfless and dedicated. You will be truly missed Chisel. Condolences Gills – Cammo

RIP Chisel and condolences to the Gill family – Rod Hood

First man to visit me in hospital after my rugby ending injury. Absolute legend. RIP Chisel – Reidy

Chisel was also a great mentor in sorting out the occasional issue with the juniors. RIP Chisel and condolences to the family – Gordon Dryburgh.

Condolences to the Gill family, we won’t have to be home now while our footy jumpers are out on the line drying. He was a great man. RIP Chisel – Neil Marchant.

RIP Chisel, a massive loss. Condolences to the Gill family – Chris Walsh

Opposition kit men can sleep a little easier. RIP to one of the greats, Chisel, much love to the Gills – Michael Davis

CHISEL – FROM BLOCKER
I started with the Greens in U18s where Steve Gill was my coach. I’d met him through his son Brad but didn’t know him well. This was large successful team, well established. I was an outsider. Straight away he took me under his wing like he has done for so many and helped make it “my place” for life. He saw me as a kid with potential, someone who could make something of himself. I remember thinking Steve Gill was a serious man who had wisdom and leadership to share. We were both horribly wrong! Here the journey of Blocker and Chisel for me began!

From there on my relationship with “Chisel” was real! Lots of swearing, bickering, beers and laughs. Chisel treated me differently than others. He’d have one hand pointing at me, calling me out with dismay or frustration “BLOCKER” in only a way someone with familiarity or care could do. The other hand always there out of sight, reaching out with unconditional support as he has for so many.

In recent years I spent a lot of time with Chisel when coaching first grade with Mick and Trent. Chisel was the football manager. This should have been a sit com on its own. It was erratic and hilarious, some of my best times. I could only liken it to Huey, Dewey and Lewey with Scrooge McDuck. Chisel with the grumpy yet nonchalant exterior on the outside but on the inside he loved it! He was one of the lads, sharing the hard work, the passion the constant tormenting and belittling of each other. These were good years with “Chis”.

For me, Chisel has been a part of my whole greens journey to date. People come and go over the years from the club and even your memory. He’s not here for anymore laughs, beers or tears. I won’t be on the end of anymore dressing downs. I won’t have another opportunity to take the piss out of him with subtle sarcasm, even a little cynicism, in a way only a way someone with familiarity or care can. “ Oh how I am I’m going to miss that”.

However, one thing is certain. Everything I do from now and forever around the club, in my head will echo the grainy shrill of Chisel’s voice. “BLOCKER!!!” I will stop, I will think! “What would Chisel do?” and I’ll most likely do the opposite. He will never not be there in my mind and heart. No one was above him, nor was anyone below him. He went about life the Chisel way! A way I’ll learn from, laugh about and remember forever. RIP Chisel, you old crank. I’ll miss you. – Jode Roach

Anzac Day 2024 – A tribute to Dr Idris “The Doc” Morgan

Posted on April 17, 2024May 9, 2024 by Merewether.6523

A LIFE OF SERVICE

Idris Morgan was born in Bourke NSW in 1891 where his father, Rev. Thomas Morgan, was Superintendent of Missions for the Presbyterian Church.

After the family moved to Sydney, Idris completed his secondary education at Fort Street High School, matriculating with 1st Class Honours in English and French.

He went on to undertake a degree in Medicine at Sydney University, graduating in 1915 aged 23 having been awarded The University Medal.

Within months of his graduation Idris had enlisted in the AIF, been taken into the Australian Army Medical Corps with the rank of Captain and embarked for Egypt on 11 October 1915.

After serving in Base Hospitals in Egypt and France, the Doc was transferred to the 19th Battalion as Regimental Medical Officer on 30 March 1917.

A Regimental Aid Post (“RAP”) was the first step in the medical evacuation chain. The post was usually located about 700 yards (640m) behind the front.

A Regimental Medical Officer and five other ranks from the Australian Army Medical Corps staffed most posts. Infantry battalions assigned at least 16 soldiers to act as stretcher-bearers.

The RAP was a vital point of liaison with the field ambulance units set up further behind the front. The post controlled everything in front of its position. Field ambulances controlled the medical evacuation chain behind the post.

Medical officers tried to set up regimental aid posts in the most suitable places. This wasn’t always possible.

Major Keith Doig, the Regimental Medical Officer for 60th Battalion, noted in his diary on 26 November 1916 that his RAP:
“…was a deep German dug-out but unfortunately right in the middle of the barrage line and machine gunning.” Source – Anzac Portal – link here.

In an interview published in Newcastle Sun in 1967 and 1980 The Doc recounted his having refereed both rugby and soccer matches between AIF Units taking breaks behind the front lines. He is quoted as saying:

“While I had never played soccer, my experience in hockey gave me some insight…..
The players seemed satisfied…. Then of course, that may have been connected to my being an Officer, or, they did not know the Rules any better than I did.”

In 1917, the 19th was involved in the follow-up of German forces after their retreat to the Hindenburg Line and was one of four battalions to defeat a counter-stroke by a German force, almost five times as strong, at Lagincourt. The Battalion took part in three major battles before the year was out, second Bullecourt (3-4 May) in France, and Menin Road (20-22 September) and Poelcappelle (9-10 October) in Belgium. Source – Australian War Memorial – link here.

On 9 April 1917 Dr Morgan was Mentioned in Despatches for his bravery in bringing wounded Diggers into cover. Below is the Certificate issued to him, signed by Winston Churchill.

On 7 October 1917, during the fighting immediately preceding the Battle of Poelcappelle, the Doc became one of the thousands wounded in this War.

John Taylor, who is researching the Club’s history, interviewed Dr Morgan’s son Tom, last year. The following is an extract from that interview:

Idris didn’t talk a great deal to his son Tom about the war but he did tell him how he was wounded.

As explained to Tom by his father, after heavy rain and heavy shelling the ground was very heavily pockmarked, and it was churned up into soft earth. The whole thing became mud, and no-one could move on it except by these duckboards. Soldiers had to walk or move across them.

‘’Dad would go out on those duckboards for anyone who was injured and carry them back.’’

“He was bringing in a wounded soldier …. He told me that he heard a shell coming, dived off the duckboard to the nearest hole and was in midair when the shell struck. It took off the lower part of his leg just above the ankle. He tied his own tourniquet and cut through the few remaining pieces of skin and tissue that hadn’t been severed by the shell and he then crawled back along the duckboard. He was then sent to England.’’

The following is copied from the AIF Service Record:

He was back at work in an Australian Army Hospital in England on 20 January 1918, just over three months after having his left leg amputated. The following is again taken from John’s interview with Tom Morgan:

‘’Dad went to hospital in England and was one of the early returned soldiers to have a wooden leg.’’ Tom said.
‘’He told me they weren’t very advanced in those days but that he encouraged others in the hospital with limb loss and wooden limbs to learn to use their limbs efficiently and that he also helped with morale in the hospital.’’

Promoted to the rank of Major on 9 July 1918, he continued to treat and support wounded Diggers in England until he embarked at Liverpool on 16 November 1918 to return home, arriving in January 1919.

By 1920 Newcastle Herald articles have him working at The Royal Newcastle and Mater Hospitals. By at least 1932 he is in private practice in Bolton Street Newcastle.

Researching the Newcastle Herald and Newcastle Sun archives it becomes clear that The Doc had several passions, most notably, Medicine, Returned Servicemen, Education, Community Service, Swimming and Rugby.

The extraordinary number of references to Dr Morgan in the Newcastle Newspapers archives over decades attests to a life quite obviously devoted to Community.

In his interview with John Taylor, Tom Morgan fondly recounted shooting trips for quail and duck with his father and brother.

‘’Shooting was one of the sports Dad really loved. He gave me an English shotgun when I was 16. We always had meat on the table.’’ Tom said.

Tom described his dad as a good father figure, enthusiastic, natural speaker, friendly and would go out of his way to help people. ‘’That was his nature and I think that is probably why he took up medicine.”

There are countless references in the newspaper archives of his appearances, as Guest Speaker at Charitable, Community and Sporting Group functions, either by direct invitation or as a representative of Rotary Newcastle, for example:

The Workers Educational Association – lectures on Ancient Egypt, The History of Medicine, The Rise and Fall of the Roman Empire and these are a few of many.
The RSL – advice on medical benefits and pension appeals for Returned Servicemen.
Numerous Scout Groups – instruction in first aid.
There are numerous references to him giving advice on diet and basic hygiene to a wide range of Community groups and associations.
He conducted classes for first responders of the Newcastle Ambulance Service

One speech in particular was one he gave to members of the Newcastle Business and Professional Women’s Club and reported in the Newcastle Herald on 5 May 1939 under the caption “Doctor Advocates Home Training Before Marriage. The full Herald article can be read here.

Dr Morgan was one of the Foundation Directors of the Rotary Club of Newcastle. He was the inaugural Secretary, served in that role until he became President and was the initiator of the Club’s first community service project – the oversight of the survey of crippled children in the Club’s region (mainly due to polio) and went on to establish the Newcastle and Northern Region’s Crippled Children’s Association. He established diagnostic investigations, education programs for crippled children and was behind the establishment of the recreational facility at Myuna Bay for social and exercise programs for crippled children.

Rotary Club’s members would drive the children to the Myuna Bay facility, which is currently being demolished, and assist them with the exercise programs.

As a Medical Practitioner he was held in the highest regard, being called to give expert medical evidence in civil and criminal courts over many years, including on the subject of medical hypnosis.

In 1953 the Army flew The Doc to Korea to give expert evidence in the Court Martial of an Australian corporal charged with the murder of an American soldier. The corporal was found to have a mental disability.

Research in local newspaper archives produces references to The Doc being the Honorary Medical Officer of many amateur sporting bodies and community groups throughout Newcastle.

Dr Morgan held a special regard for those of his patients who were returned Diggers, from both wars. And there were many of them. He was particularly concerned with their mental health but also took a personal interest in those with social and personal difficulties. In one of the extensive articles in the Newcastle Sun he is quoted, referencing his Digger patients, “They let you know what they are thinking, sometimes in good old Digger terms. This I like.”

He was a member of the Newcastle Repatriation Committee which had the responsibility of assisting Diggers to find and return to work. The Doc also contributed to assisting Diggers through his work with the RSL and Gallipoli Legion.

In 1932 he became aware of unemployed Diggers, some with children, living rough in the “Diggers Camp” in Hall Street Newcastle (near what is now Market Town). He set up the Diggers Relief Fund and personally collected clothing and other items to assist them. Linked here are two Newcastle Herald articles covering the Camp and the Fund.

On 24 April 1934 Dr Morgan gave an Anzac address to a Rotary Club lunch which was reported in full in the Newcastle Herald and can be read here.

As for sport, The Doc was up for anything, but swimming and rugby clearly topped the list. Before his Military Service he was an avid surf swimmer and member of Bondi Surf Club. While the loss of his leg curtailed his surf swimming it did not deter or prevent him being involved and competing in baths events.

He became a competitor in the Diggers, Newcastle Premier and Northern Districts Swimming Clubs and Newcastle baths competitions conducted by Newcastle Surf Club while also assisting events run by these clubs as starter, judge, recorder, and in any other capacity. Dr Morgan also served terms as President of the Northern Districts Swimming and Newcastle Surf Clubs.

Several years after returning from the war Dr Morgan with two other Diggers competed in a 3-man team relay event at the NSW Diggers State Swimming Championships. The Doc competed with his one leg. Of the other two, one had a bullet still lodged in his back and the other, a bullet still in his knee. They finished third in a field of eight.

At Sydney University Dr Morgan played hockey, for which he was awarded a University Blue and some rugby, (when hockey commitments permitted), describing himself as, “just an ordinary player.”

His service to rugby would be far above the ordinary.

In 1924 Rugby in Newcastle was reborn after a ten-year suspension due to the player drain to enlistment in the Services. Idris Morgan was elected Chairman of Newcastle Rugby’s Management Committee and appointed the Union’s honorary Medical Officer, holding the latter position for some 40 years, “…. always ready to give free service to injured players from any club. He can be seen at any game, ready to attend players.” [Newcastle Herald 21 August 1958]

He became a Life Member of the Newcastle Rugby Union in 1958.

The Doc added to an already very busy life when he was elected President of the Cooks Hill Surf Club RUFC at the foundation meeting of that Club on 1st March 1927. The full minutes of that meeting can read/downloaded here.

A prominent foundation member, mentioned in those minutes, is Sid Malcolm (Wallaby #242 – 18 Tests 1927-1934) who would later play a part in the coaching of the very first players for Merewether Carlton.

In June 1930 Dr Morgan was no doubt a leading figure in the amalgamation of his club, which earlier in 1930 had changed its name to Merewether RUFC, and Carlton RUFC.

There is no documented record of the agreement to amalgamate. The next available record is the minutes of the first AGM of Merewether Carlton RUFC held in the old greenroom on 12 March 1931 when Dr Morgan and Mr E R Caldwell (formerly Carlton RUFC President) were elected Presidents.

He and Mr Caldwell continued to share the position until February 1936 when Dr Morgan was elected in his own right. He was elected, unopposed, each and every year until he stood down as President of Merewether Carlton on 16 December 1974.

The Doc bookended the 1927 and 1974 years with 1st Grade Premierships.

He was a constant presence at games, always up for a chat. He could have a conversation with anyone about pretty well anything. The Doc knew every player’s name, even down to those playing in Junior teams.

He didn’t lack a sense of humour either. Players from the early 70’s will remember an incident when The Doc got his prosthetic foot caught under the brake pedal and put his car into the steel and wire fence surrounding the No.2 playing area. Given that this was in front of the crowd on the “Green Hill”, it followed that he got a a fair spray of advice on driving, which he took in great humour.

He was everybody’s Doctor. His ‘Trench’ sideline treatment for injured players was legendary.

It was always obvious that he enjoyed being around the members, the players and the game.

“Mick Mewburn 100 1st Grade Games 1956”

As for The Doc’s own reflections on his years at Merewether Carlton, that is best left to him:
“It is an experience that has been most rewarding and one I would not have willingly missed. I’ve been fortunate to be associated with many grand chaps – the ordinary player and member as well as those who were outstanding club and representative players – and there were many.”

“It was the spirit that counted, and Carlton never lacked it. It’s a great club and an honour to belong to it, let alone be its President.”

“Wouldn’t have missed the experience for anything. Like all Diggers, a great bunch of fellows.”

The above quotes are taken from extensive interview articles published in Newcastle Sun in 1967 and 1980. The full articles are available by following the links. Newcastle Sun article 1967 and Newcastle Sun 1980.

Doc Morgan died in May 1980 having just seen his Club kick off its 51st season and 50th Anniversary Year. After finishing 4th Merewether Carlton 16 defeated Wanderers 3 in the 1st Grade Grand Final on 13 September 1980.

Meet Your Club Captains

Posted on April 16, 2024 by Merewether.6523

At the 2023 season AGM in Feb 2024, the Board proposed a Constitution change to allow up to two Club Captains to be selected for the club.

As you’re all aware, we have a very big club & we want to ensure we have a positive experience for our playing group. Having two Club Captains allows a wider touch point for the players and improved communication to the Board.
In 2024, we believe we’ve got the right mix!

Late February, the playing group voted in both Jock Wait & Naomi Medlin as our 2024 Club Captains. We asked them a few questions so we can help everyone get to know them.

Naomi Medlin

Player number 2703, Naomi, affectionately known as Nomes, is our youngest player to reach 100 games for our Women’s team & our first female Club Captain!

Having started playing at a young age of 17 in 2010, Nomes reached this amazing milestone in round 1 of 2018.

A damaging ball runner & a fearless defender, Nomes is a clear leader that our club is very proud to have involved. Naomi will bring an honest view and a solid work ethic to our club.

Naomi said “I’m very excited for the 2024 season. We have a very good group of players and everyone is getting involved. I’m still playing & want to pass on all my knowledge to our up & coming girls.

I’m looking to work closely with Jock to ensure our Social Calendar is full, our player standards are held in high regard by all & working with the playing group to ensure we’re competitive whilst having fun, supporting each other”

What makes the Greens a club you want to play for week in and week out? The drive for me to play for the greens week in week out is having the opportunity to give back to a club and supporters that has constantly supported and helped me grow as not only a player but as a person for the last 13 years. Some of my fondest memories and relationships made during my 30 years of life have been made wearing the green jersey, and I believe It is a privilege to have the chance to continue on with that.

What does it mean to you to be voted Club Captain by the playing group? It’s with great honour to be selected for this role, especially as the first female. The players, the leadership group and board members we have at the moment is filled with depth, great camaraderie and passion for this club. I’m beyond privileged to be given the opportunity to be the voice, leader and mentor of that by the playing group here.

What do you hope to achieve this year as part of Merewether Carlton? In 2024 my key aspiration is to contribute in growing the club and its players. To ensure the younger generation coming through have ample opportunity and resources available to ensure they enjoy this great game and environment Merewether has created. I believe that is key to a successful club.

Jock Wait

Player number 3048, Jock started with MCRC seniors in 2015 and has already racked up 138 games in this short period. A member of the 2022 Premiership winning team, Jock has grown into a great leader for our club.

Jock started in our Junior system in 2009 and hit the ground running in 2015 when he started Snrs. He debuted in P1 in 2016 and has been in and around P1 & 2 ever since. Jock has been our P2 Captain for the last couple of seasons & is a natural leader on the field.

Jock said “Very excited to start our 2024 campaign as a club. We we are very determined to continue building on the success from our last couple years, and as a playing group we are confident we have the talent to do exactly that. Stoked for Nomes with her appointment as the first female club captain, and looking forward to working with her throughout the year.”

What makes the Greens a club you want to play for week in and week out? It has to be the community and supporters. There’s nothing more I look forward to then playing a home game at Townson on a Saturday afternoon.

What does it mean to you to be voted Club Captain by the playing group? It means a lot, very nice to know I’ve got the backing of my mates.

What do you hope to achieve this year as part of Merewether Carlton? The Club championship is a big one for me. We’ve come close in recent years, and the success of an entire club is something I’d like to be striving for.

Fundraising Bike Ride Recap

Posted on April 5, 2024April 17, 2024 by Merewether.6523

What an amazing adventure we’ve had.

As you know, 26 riders left Townson Oval last Thursday morning to the cheers of a great crowd. We were nervous of the challenge ahead though confident in the group we had.

Day one was a flatter day and a great way to warm into the ride. The Hunter Expressway had plenty of debris on the road and we had four flat tyres in that short period. The Golden Highway was our first taste of country roads with heavy vehicles moving past us at pace, certainly got the blood flowing.

We had lunch at Godolphin along with a great tour of their facility. Back on the road for the last 18km journey to our first destination, Denman Hotel with 137kms travelled in total.

Day two was always on the back of everyone’s minds. 95kms through the Bylong Valley with some steep climbs before the 5.7Km climb up to Rylstone. The peloton was eerily quiet after the first climb and all the talk was about the big climb. With lunch awaiting us at the top, we ripped the bandaid off and attacked the monster climb at our own pace. Ed Mounsey was always the “Billy Goat” to beat up the mountain and was never challenged.

We then had a 20km ride into Rylstone that had some surprise climbs though everyone was in good spirits to end day 2 at 126kms travelled in total.

Day 3 was the last stint. 100kms in total through some glorious countryside. This was also going to be our biggest climbing day with over 1785m in elevation.

The road from Ilford to Sofala was picturesque. We went at our own speed and had to battle another 6-7km climb out of Sofala with some gradients being over 8% incline. This proved very difficult for all riders and the Green spirit definitely came out to shine.

Lunch was provided at Wattle Flat before the last 45km group ride into Bathurst. Coming back down the mountain and seeing the Mt Panorama sign was a great feeling, knowing we’d pushed ourselves to our limits and the end goal was in sight.

We regrouped 500m from the Rugby ground and rode in as a group to the players and supporters cheering us home.

On behalf of both our Boards, the riders and the entire Greens community, I’d like to thank Brodie Hussain for all his work since the initial idea was floated in October 23. To plan and implement such a massive project is an amazing achievement and the club is forever grateful. Brodie, we all understand your frustration of not being able to ride though we’re appreciative of everything you’ve done. Nearly $90,000 to provide support to our Rugby community is an amazing outcome.

I’d also like to thank Matt Jackson, Eliza Tresidder and Grant Midwinter for providing the support vehicles and motivation along the way. Also, a massive thanks to Melanie and the team at Solvd for the amazing vlogging. This is already in our memories though to have such a professional Social media presence is greatly appreciated. Get behind Solvd, it was a great donation!

Last but not least, to our amazing community. Nearly 90K in donations goes to show you all believe in what we’re trying to achieve. This is going to support the entire club for years to come.

It’s not too late to donate, we will be wrapping up donations next Tuesday just after Easter, so if you have been meaning to and haven’t had a chance, you can donate via the Australian Sports Foundation portal here. Remember donations are tax deductible.

Thanks,
Luke Tresidder

FROM BRODIE

‘From an idea borne in October 2023 to seeing the riders roll into Bathurst on Saturday afternoon at 2:30pm, I was immensely proud of what has been achieved.
For 26 riders to ride 360km and up 4500m of hills over 3 days is an amazing achievement especially when half the group had never ridden more than 100km prior. The riders experience will stay with them forever and new friendships were formed particularly during some dark moments on some steep hills’.

‘We have managed to raise approximately $90K for the Greens Welfare and Wellbeing fund which has the potential to save and change lives for the better. I’d like to thank the sponsors, the brave riders, the community that have generously donated, the Greens Rugby Foundation and Merewether Carlton Board for making this project such a success’.

Thanks,
Brodie Hussain

VIDEOS

We were privileged to have some video footage of the ride as well as some promo videos put together prior to the ride, all videos are available to view on our youtube channel here.

PHOTO GALLERY

Here are just a few of the pics we captured during the trip.

4 Weeks To Go – Fundraising Bike Ride – Donate Now

Posted on February 22, 2024April 5, 2024 by Merewether.6523

Fundraising Bike Ride – 4 weeks to go!

On Thursday 21st March a group of adventurous souls from our Greens community will embark on an epic 3-day ride from Newcastle to Bathurst. Culminating with our annual pre-season club trial against Bathurst Rugby Club, this ride is an initiative to raise funds toward our Greens Assistance Program.

The club has identified the importance of both mental and physical well-being for its players and community and is committed to delivering these services.

Last year the club engaged NewPsych to create the “Greens Assistance Program”, offering confidential mental health counselling and support to our Greens community.

This is a unique program that supports our junior and senior players, coaches and managers to access psychological services, with ambitions of tackling concussion and injury rehabilitation over the coming years.

This is a groundbreaking initiative for a local rugby club and a first for the Hunter.

Given the significant cost of these services, we are aiming to raise $100K to support the program.

If you can, please show your support by donating any amount, big or small and help us reach our goal of supporting the wellness and wellbeing of our players. You can donate via the Australian Sports Foundation portal here

Get to know your riders

The riding group have been training in small teams during the week, racking up 50-70km rides before work. There have also been some larger groups riding around Lake Macquarie between 80 – 110km rides, also riding down to Budgewoi to watch our 7’s team in the Sevens by the Sea tournament recently.

Most of the newer riders have purchased new bikes ranging from $4,000 – $7,000 for this ride and are taking the prep very seriously.

Day one of the ride is 135kms, day two is 128kms with over 1,820 metres of climbing, and day three into Bathurst is 99kms with just under 1,800 metres of climbing.

Brodie and David Klep have built the maps to keep everyone focussed and we’ll share these closer to the ride.

Introducing your 30 strong riding team and their connection to the GREENS:

Life Members: Brodie Hussain, Bob Hawes, Gordon Dryburgh, Jode Roach
Board members: Michael Edwards, Luke Tresidder, Andrew Beattie
Greens Foundation Board members: Brodie Hussain, Luke Tresidder
Current players: Paddy Hogan, Luke Tresidder, Billy Dunn
Coaches: Brodie Hussain, Luke Tresidder, Andrew Beattie, Jode Roach
Old boy/girl: Brodie Hussain (#2069), Gabrielle Hussain (nee Halpin #2115), Bob Hawes (#1587), Rhys Smith (#2729), Andrew Beattie (#3308), Rodney Hood (#1975), Ben Kay (#2691), Ed Mounsey (#2707), Charlie Mathers (#2629), Michael Edwards (#2056), Jode Roach (#1893)
Former Junior: Brodie Hussain, Marty White, Gregor Dryburgh, Daniel McGuire, Michael Edwards
Parent of a current/former player: Brodie & Gabrielle Hussain, David & Lee Klep, Michael Edwards, Paul Gidley, Andy Dunn, Marty White, Luke Tresidder, Bob Hawes, Andrew Beattie, Gordon Dryburgh, Ed Mounsey, Martin Perry, Paul Wildshut, Steve Wait, David McCormack, Jode Roach
Sponsors: Brodie Hussain (Ord Minnett), Robbie McNaughton (Drift), Rhys Smith (Sanbah Surf & Drift), Andy Dunn (Beauty & The Fox), Sean Hersee (Sage Painting), Andrew Beattie (PKF), Martin Perry (Doyle Partners), Michael Edwards (Shiels + Co), Luke Tresidder (Maxwell Recruitment and Training), Paul Wildshut (Experienced Office Furniture), Jode Roach (Allied)
Volunteer: Paul Gidley
Referee: Bob Hawes, Gordon Dryburgh
Tour leader: Caleb
Mechanics: Robbie McNaughton, Andy Dunn

Donations opened last week and we have currently raised over $13K, however have a lot of work to do to reach our $100K target. Please dig deep and help where you can. Make a tax deductible donation here.

Raffles

We will be raffling off some amazing prizes. Raffle tickets will be sold at The Prince on Friday 1st, 8th and 15th of March between 4:30-6pm.

On the 15th March The Prince is kindly organising a ‘karma keg’ with all proceeds to be donated to the foundation. So come and buy a ticket and a schooner – put it in your calendar now.