David Campese was a rugby genius. His one-time coach Alan Jones once described him as the “Don Bradman of Australian rugby”.

Campo was one of the most influential figures in Australian rugby from his debut as a 19-year-old in 1982 until his final Test appearance 14 years later.

He was a star performer when the Jones-coached Wallabies magnificently claimed the Grand Slam in 1984, defeating England, Ireland, Wales and Scotland.

Two years later, he again triumphed in a three Test series in New Zealand when the Wallabies won the Bledisloe Cup on New Zealand soil for the first time in 37 years. He scored the final try in the third Test match on that tour at Auckland’s Eden Park – the last time Australia has tasted victory at that venue…33 years ago!

Campese’s final standout career milestone was in the 1991 World Cup when the Bob Dwyer-coached Wallabies lifted the William Webb Ellis trophy for the first time, defeating England in the final at Twickenham.

Queanbeyan-born Campese, who played his Sydney club rugby with the Randwick club, was voted the player of that tournament. Who will ever forget his magical pass that led to centre Tim Horan’s try in the qualifying semi-final against the All Blacks in Dublin. It came after Campo himself scored a slashing try to open the Australian account.

He is one of only a handful of players to compete in three World Cups – the inaugural event in 1987, 1991 and 1995.

David Ian Campese played 101 Tests for the Wallabies, 85 on the wing and 16 at fullback, and scored 64 tries.

After living in South Africa following his playing days, he now resides in the NSW Southern Highlands.

David Campese will be joining us for this year’s President’s Lunch at the new Green Room on Sunday 21st July 2019, 12pm – 4pm, tickets are $120, grab your tickets now.