The North Albany Football Club has a long history, which dates back to about 1888 and remains the only Albany Club still in existence within the Great Southern Region since football began in this area.

We have seen some great players come and go throughout the Club's long and rather turbulent history. Many will remember such names as the Skenfield brothers. Jack Penter. Ernie Webb, Bob Selby. Dick Quartermain. Syd McGlade. Phil Furlong, the Fitzpatrick quartet, Lance Cook, Ted Thompson, Barry Loo, Bill Cagnana (Snr.), Bill R;:Ilston, Les Coyne and so the names could go on and on. Despite the long history of the Club, premierships have not been easy to win, for of our 92 years of known existence we have only won 10. These were 1889, 1925, 1936,1937,1946,1952,1954,1966,1969 and 1980.

1977 - was the yeiir the Kangas moved from Centennial Oval into their new Collingwood Park premises. Coach that year was Les Holt and a disastrous year it was, for it was the first time North Albany did not make the final four since 1958. This was the year Galante, Bradley, Foon were recruited and the year Tony Docking, Murray Wynne and Ray Mountford first played league, up from Coils and we all know how they have since fared. Jim Doyle, Phil McAuliffe and Paul Watkins celebrated their 50th League games in this year and club stalwart Terry Nichols retired mid season after 182 league games.

1978 - saw Ken Whittaker take over as League coach. The Kangas finished 4th that year with anpther stalwart in Clive Walker retiring after 186 games. It was the year the Club adopted our "fighting kangaroo" logo which still remains with us. That was the year of big Aub Dimer who stayed for 2 seasons and played 21 tempestuous games.

1979 - was a year of happening for the Kangas. Peter Walsh arrived and became league coach. Barry Harfield gave th'e club his sponsorship and 1979 became, "It's yours and Mine in '79", per kind favour of the "mouth of the south", Gary Pollett. 1979 saw our 3 teams front up on grand final day, but still the league pennant eluded us, for the league lost to Royals. However both Colts and Reserves won flags. The Colts began their winning record and many new faces in the league team - Walsh, Evans, Guthridge, Cook, Allsop, Coyne, Hood, G. Pickett, G. Wynne (1 game only) and Paul Healy. Milestones of 100 games were reached that year by Greg Neville, Phil Howie and Colin Proud love. Kleeman Medal was won by Peter Walsh, Keith Wynne (Jnr) won the thirds fairest and best and it was the year the Kangas became a professional club, headed by Peter Walsh.

1980 - the slogan for this year was, "Kangas, football Power of the '80's". All three 1979 coaches re-appointed, namely Walsh, Bradley and Gillies. Football history created th is year with wins in all three grades, the Colts and League each picking up their undefeated champion pennants and the previously beaten reserves downing Railways. This was the year of the new look disciplined Kangas, complete with new jumpers. It was also the year the Kangas figured prominently in the SDNFL football awards. Rob Sutton won the Kleeman Medal and the Cobber Cook Medal, Murray Wynne won the Commonwealth Savings Bank $100 trophy for the best under 20 years player, Chris Elliott won the League goalkicking trophy, Tony Docking the reserves goal kicking award and Paul Whittington the colts goal kicking trophy. Paul Williams completed a successful 1980 season by winning the combined colts best player award in their grand final. This was also the year of the Whites Best Team Man $500 trophy which was won by Ollie Galante. Our grounds were floodlit for night training and Kelvin Stephens played his 100th game. All in all a very successful year for the Kangas camp, this was born out by the number of sore heads on the Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday following that great Grand Final Day.

1981 - saw the same three coaches re-appointed. Gerry Cameron returned to the Kangas from Claremont. The controversial turf wicket laid on the Collingwood Oval and the Colts record winning 45th consecutive win ended by Royals Colts. Peter Walsh elected to coach the combined SDNFL league squad and Rod Gillies coached an unbeaten combined colts squad. Kangas high flying centre half back, Alwyn Coyne won the Warburton Trophy for the best player of the SDNFL combined team at the Wesfarmers Carnival in Perth. This year, the controversy continues, with Peter Walsh's decision to take 6 players from the ground during the game against Railways on 30th August. 1981 still shows promise of things to come with 19 of our current league and reserves players being ex-colts players who have come up through the ranks which shows the depth and strength of the Club.

The current trend shows that Kangas should once again field 3 teams on grand final day for perhaps another 3 flags - we hope so, especially as a final tribute to the man who began the success story of the Kangas, Peter Walsh, who retires back to Busselton at the end of this year.

Off the track, the Club, headed by Mr Hadn Hood have had their ups and downs financially, however, the solid foundations laid by the hardworking committee are sure to bring the rewards they and their club so justly deserve. They are a hardworking, closely knit crew, who with the ladies committee and the social committee members have done much towards making the club the success that it is. Social functions at the Club are always very well attended in the warm, relaxing atmosphere of the upstairs bar and dance floor. 1981 pre football season also made way for our long overdue Honour Board which was presented to Mr Hood and the Club as a gift from the Kangas Social Club Committee.

PRINCIPAL CLUB RECORDS:

Long Playing Members: Ted Thompson 190 games, Clive Walker 186, Terry Nichols 182, Colin Proudlove 163, Mike Norman 152, Stan Loo 127, Kelvin Stephen 126 (still playing).

Club Premierships:

1889,1925,1936,1937,1946,1952,1954,1966,1969,1980.

Honorary Life Members:

F. Brown, K. Nesbitt, F. Shenfield, C. McEwen, E. Livesey, A. Kleeman, B. Harris, B. Forte, F. Wilson, J. Smith, L. Cook, E. Lambe, W. Caganana, H. Croxford, R. Shenfield, K. Rule, A. Colley, Mrs A. Rule, W. Pugh, C. Phillipson, J. Garland, Mrs B. Armstrong, Mrs J. Thompson, G. Whitten.

N.A.F.C. League F & B Players:

1962 E. Thompson, 1963 E. Thompson, 1964 E. Thompson, 1965 L. Edwards, 1966 P. Stephen, 1967 P. Stephen, 1968 P. Stephen, 1969 G. Adams, 1970 G. Adams, 1971 G. Wellington, 1972 R. Gillies, 1973 P. Stephen, 1974 P. Stephen, 1975 R. Gillies, 1976 C. Bonnie, 1977 L. Holt, 1978 O. Galante, 1979 G. Evans, 1980 K. Allsop, 1981 K. Wynne.

The first record of a Mount Barker Football Association so far established seems to be in 1921 and the first meeting of the "North Ward Football Club" was held on 2nd April, 1921 at the Mount Barker Hotel but the resolution "to retain the Red and Black jerseys if possible" indicates the existence of some form of competition before that.

Records of the period between the two wars is extremely sketchy, the club's minute book and premiership shield from the year 1931 onwards the only known records. The club seems to have enjoyed a fair share of success on the field and certainly produced a number of top class footballers and plenty of personalities. Probably the best known players of those early days were such as Les Riches, the club's first captain and president who later played for Subiaco and Carlton; Ron (Pom) Cooper, who was runner-up for the Sandover Medal when playing for Claremont and later starred with St. Kilda, Jack Warn (Subiaco). Roy Dix, Fred Williams, Ken Sounness and the Collins brothers - Bill, Fred, Charlie and Frank. From the reumption of football after the war until 1958 there were big changes in country football and its administration and North were fortunate that as well as some good footballers, .they had a fairly stable administration through these years.

Although the mid-fifties saw some lean years, the late forties and late fifties saw the club enjoying some of its great successes. It was an era which produced some great players such as Stan Lebeck, Frank Garbellini, Eric Krakouer, Ossie Miller, Geoff J9nes, Keith Jones, Bobby, Ron and Paul Sounness, Eric Randall and Jim Donohoe to name a few.

By 1957 the club was well organised and playing a leading part in the formation of the S.D.N.F.L. which at the time was not universally accepted by the Mount Barker Association clubs. However in 1958 the four Mount Barker and three Albany Clubs formed the S.D.N.F.L. During the early years North "filled up the four" with the three Albany teams generally running third or fourth although they were second in 1959.

With football interest high and the town financially sound it was realised that a major move had to be made if the club was going to progress instead of staqnate and with the financial backing of several supporters in 1963, the club leapt into the limelight when they appointed one of the state's greatest post war footballers in Laurie Kettlewell as coach. Kettlewell stepped into a team tailor-made for success with probably one of the most brilliant line-ups the club has ever fielded and though they averaged less than 21 years of age, the 1963 premiership ushered in a golden era within the club which lasted until 1973. In those years North appeared in ten out of eleven grand finals, winning six of them. A succession of top coaches followed Kettlewell - Ken Armstrong (Perth), Phil Farrell (Subiaco). Richie Haddow (West Perth) and Dick Walker (Claremont) and finally one of the club's own greatest players in Robbie Scott.

As well as the coaches in the club, players such as Allan Ballantyne, Brian Gilbert, Don Dalton, Mal Willis, Leith Roe, Don Bunker and John Sounness contributed greatly to the club's success.

Inevitably in the last few years many of these players have passed from the scene and the club again faces the task of re-organisation. It is a challenge the Club has accepted before and will undoubtedly accept again.

Off the field the club has also enjoyed considerable success and today is in a sound financial position. In 1958 an account was set up to pay for the building of a club rooms on Sounness Park and by the time the building was completed the club had completely paid for it and also added further improvements. In 1963 . North became the first country club in the state to purchase its own house but this was later sold in 1973 when the club purchased "Demon Downs", a 23 acre property adjoining the Sounness Park Oval. Currently the club is working towards the erection of training lighting to assist winter training and the further development of the club rooms which have now become inadequate for the club's needs.

O. A. K. Sounness", F. Williams", J, MeN. Martin", Mrs, E. Woods", S. E. Lebeck", E, Thomas": Mrs, E. Godden, G. G, Comfort, Mrs. G. G. Comfort, R. O. Sounness,

E. Randall, E. Krakouer, W. H. P. Dickson, W. H. Backshall, D. W. Silvester, G. H. Taylor, G. T. Jones, E. V. Taylor, H. C. Reeves, D. G. R. Scott, A. R. Ballantyne, C. A. V. Wells, Mrs. E. V. Taylor, R. G. Scott and G. Colbung.

"Deceased members.

LONG PLAYING MEMBERS:

(League games played to end of 1976 season):

334 Allan Ballantyne, 234 Robbie Scott, 229 Frank Garbellini, 217 Geoff Jones, 210 Eric Krakouer, 193 Glen Colbung, 178 Brian Gilbert, 169 Don Scott, 167 Dennis Silvester, 170 Fred Mentha, 135 Leith Roe, 133 Calvin Clark, 132 John Sounness, 130 Don Bunker, 132 Malcolm Williss, 140 Bruce Scott, 119 Warren Mitchell, 109 Maurie Thiel, 106 Phil Trent.

CLUB PREMIERSHIPS:

M.B.FA: 1921,1922,1923,1924,1933,1939,1946,1947,1950,1955 and 1957. S.D.N.F.L.: 1963, 1964, 1965, 1970, 1971 and 1973.

SECONDS M.B.FA: 1957.

SECONDS S.D.N.F.L.: 1964, 1965, 1966, 1971 and 1975.

In 1973 North won the Great Southern Club Championships, a competition sponsored by the club for the championship of the Great Southern, competed for by the premier sides of the four Great Southern Councils. Lack of finance has caused the shelving of this competition until a sponsor can be found.

CLUB JUNIORS SELECTED IN STATE SCHOOLBOYS TEAMS:

1949 Stan Lebeck, 1950 Geoff Jones, 1951 Geoff Jones, 1960 Robbie Scott, 1966 Stephen Fowles, 1972 Geoff Ironmonger.

KLEEMANN MEDALISTS (Fairest and Best in S.D.N.F.L.): 1971 Bill Campbell, 1973 Dick Walker, 1975 Jimmy Krakouer.

CLUB FAIREST AND BEST WINNERS (Sounness Shield):

1951 R. Sounness, 1952 T. Rowe, 1953 D. Dix, 1954 F. Garbellini, 1955 S. Lebeck, 1956 F. Garbellini, 1957 S. Lebeck, 1958 G. Jones, 1959 S. Lebeck, 1960 K. D. Jones, 1961 T. Taylor, 1962 L. Roe, 1963 L. Kettlewell, 1964 D. Dalton, 1965 D. Dalton, 1966 R. Scott, 1967 R. Scott, 1968 P. Shorthouse, 1969 R. Scott, 1970 P. Shorthouse, 1971 W. Campbell, 1972 P. Trent, 1973 M. Willis, 1974 R. Scott, 1975 J. Krakouer.

HIGHLIGHTS SINCE 1951

1951 - Institution of the Sounness Shield. First trip away by a Mount Barker Club outside the Great Southern - and a return trip. (North went to Kulin, then part of the Corrigin Association and the trip in those days appeared to be pretty much in the Burke and Wills class. The minute book shows the usual concern over liquor. No keg was to be allowed on the bus - instead players were confined to "a few bottles of beer each." The equivalent keg and a half lasted until Kojonup). There was also a suggestion at the time that the Mount Barker and Albany Associations should combine together for domestic football. North opposed the idea strongly, in particular seeing such a merger as eventually leading to a loss of Carnival identity. (There is no record of the outcome but at the time feeling was very strongly against the idea everywhere and going on personal memory only, it was never formally proposed at the Association.) The same year North spoke out vehemently against the Association's decision to hand the running and control of matches to the home clubs. (North were proven wrong - the idea was a great success from which we still reap the benefits in match organisation.)

1958 - Amalgamation became a reality with the formation of the Southern Districts National Football League on a trial basis. The original League comprised of three teams from Albany and the four teams of the Mount Barker Association. After being second to the unbeaten Royals throughout the season North were beaten by North Albany in the preliminary final. The Seconds finished fifth - the only time they have missed the final four.

1963 - In a revolutionary move North secured the services of one of W.A.'s best footballers in Laurie Kettlewell as coach. At the same time Cranbrook made a similar movtl by appointing Kevin McGill and the two teams dominated the

season. Football was rejuvinated with North winning their first premiership by beating Cranbrook in the last game played on the Showgrounds (now Frost) Oval. The Seconds were third again but the C Grade was still battling to win a game most of the time. North became the first country Club in W.A. to buy a coach's house.

1964 - Football moved to Sounness Park. Prior to the opening of the season North opened their new Clubrooms which at that time were among the most modern in country football. Sound financing meant that even in the original plans the Club was able to add a storeroom-kitchen to what had been planned. Ken Armstrong succeeded Kettlewell as coach but the League was surprisingly beaten by North Albany in the second semi final. An amazing Grand Final in Albany climaxed the season. In generally fine weather the Seconds won their/irst premiership at the expense of Cranbrook but late in their game heavy rain began to fall. The league Grand Final was played in a torrential downpour in which the ball never crossed the centreline at the town end of the ground. The final score saw North victors 1.14 to a single goal. Even the C Grade improved making the finals for the first time. Highlight of the League was the introduction of League Umpires. Another highlight was the permanent establishment of the Mount Barker Nippers Association by the former Mount Barker teams.

1965 - The first "derby" Grand Final. A queue of cars estimated a mile long waited for the gates to open and an estimated 3,000 people packed Sounness Park to see North win a double premiership - the Seconds undefeated. The Thirds had their greatest year going down in the preliminary final byfive points to the team which eventually won the premiership by 13 goals.

1970 - "Go with Haddow in '70" caught the imagination ana in a great united effort the Club came back into the winners circle winning their first premiership for five years, three times runners up in the meantime. The seconds were runners up for the fourth consecutive year. The Thirds continued to struggle through lack of numbers. Club supporters travelled to Albany on Saturdays to bring players back to make up teams and odd players were recruited from Cranbrook to bolster the numbers. However there were plenty of Nippers and on occasions "Little League" games were played for the many small ones who could not get a game.

1971 - Richard Walker took over as coach in the Club's 50th Anniversary Year. It was a year of great celebration for the Club highlighted by a double premiership by the League and Seconds with the Nippers undefeated. The barbeque area behind the Clubrooms was built and fenced. Highlight of the Grand Final was Dick Walker's mark just before the resultant goal drowned out the siren. (It is still contended that in the excitement that followed the central umpire Ray Scott did not blow time off to end the game but certainly Dick's goal was the last of the last of the season). The Thirds however could not field a team and as a result many of their players, unable to play with the High School team joined North.

1973 - Robbie Scott became coach - the first locally produced coach since Tony Taylor. In his first year, despite many injuries and problems he steered the team to a premiership defeating North Albany in Albany and the amazing feature of the game was that for the second time in three years it was Dick Walker who put the side two points in front with only moments to go when he received a free kick. The final score was 6.5 to 3.19 after North had trailed 3.6 to 0.0 at quarter time but the unbelievable effort of the final round was in the preliminary final when North recovered from being down 4.12 to 11.6 at three quarter time against South to win 11.18 to 11.7. Having overcome everything to win the Premiership North went on to win the second Great Southern Championship. The Seconds fared badly after a good start to the season and finished losing both the second semi final and preliminary final but the Thirds improved to go down narrowly to Royals, the eventual premiers in the preliminary final but the Thirds improved to go down narrowly to Royals, the eventual premiers in the preliminary final. Off the field, apart from the successful Championship the big news was the sale of the Club's house, which had not been used for the Club purposes for years and the purchase instead of "Demon Downs" - some 23 acres of land adjacent to Sounness Park· within the town area. An individual highlight of the Club was Allan Ballantyne's 300th game for the Club - all A grade games in a career which began in 1956.

Jim and Phil Krakouer. Claremont Stars came from North. They both played State football this season. Their father. Eric is a life member of North Mount Barker. Bruce Scott reached a milestone this season by playing his 200th league game and becoming a life member along with his father Mr D.G.R. Scott and brother Robbie Scott, who are both life members of the Club.

Another milestone reached by Fred Mentha in breaking a long standing record of Allan Ballantyne. FreQ breaks the record for most club games 336. This record will stand for a long time'to come.

During the years 1939-44 there were only three teams in the Albany competition, ATC, Tow.ns and Scrivens. Scrivens was an army side stationed at the Forts. At the end of the war Scrivens disbanded and Railways Football Club was founded due mainly to the late Bluey Morris and Charlie Williams, who worked for the Railways; this was in 1945.

The first meeting was'held at the hall Railways called "The Old Green Lizard", on a Sunday night, the meeting not allowed to commence until a 10 gallon keg present was opened! Meetings were mainly held at Manea's Cafe or in a room at the London Hotel. Training was on Parade Street Reserve. Physical training and blackboard lectures were held in the Railway station First Aid rooms, later moving to the flats next to the Weld Hotel.

Some of the originals who worked and played hard to get the club off the ground were Keith (Sugar) Cahill, Bill (Basher) Graham, Bob Smith, Reg. Macaulay, Peter Hall, Norm Bevan, Les Hockey, Joe Hodgins, Wizzy O'Keefe, Arnold Jacobs, Norm Astill and Wally Pearce. Blazers were measured up by Terry Klilnnedy and tailored in Perth - some of the originals are still in existence.

One cutting discovered tells of a mammoth Harbour Cruise and Barbecue conducted by the Railways on October 1st, 1949', aboard the Motor Launch "Temeraire" from Albany to Little Grove, skippered by Max Chester, player and coach. Railways have always had an excellent social club, which probably accounts for our lack of premierships.

Our first premierships were in 1952 when the seconds coached by Bluey Hearne and captained by Mervyn Offer won, and also the C grade, coached by Hal. Symons, who was instrumental in beginning the C grade competition. Railways were very honoured to have two junior footballers, Wally Offer and David Moyes selected in the State Schoolboys side to play in Brisbane in 1952. Raffles were organised to defray expenses, and a presentation made by Les Hockey, secretary, in the Town Hall at an Oval Advisory Board dance. These dances were for the sole purpose of raising monies for the upkeep of Centennial Oval.

The seconds won other premierships in 1956 and 1970 coached by Colin Bell. Of late, the seconds, under coach David Holt, have been most successful team with a premiership in 1978 and runners-up to the premiers in 1979 and 1980.

The C grade were a very good team and must have won more premierships than the writer could find, in the fifties, 1953, 1958 and 1959. They won six straight from 1965 when coached by league player Colin Williamson, through to 1970.

But without doubt the highlight of our club history at the moment would be the league premiership in 1961, when we came from fourth place to win, and were outsiders to say the least! That 1961 team was: John Feutrill, Terry Krummel, Nat (Father) Fitzsimmons, Harry (Snozzle) Riseborough, Neil (Coloureds) Peters, R. Green. Alan (Frosty) Renton, T. Kennedy, Colin Edwards (Capt.-Coach), John Oag (V. Capt.), Ross McLeod, Colin Williamson, Murray Clummp, Ken Giles, George Martin (Jnr.), and John Kitchen. Officials were Bill Magnall, president; Bill Robins. vice-president; Kevin Jackson, secretary; G. Knapp, timekeeper; John Rowe. George Martin (Snr.), Ted Harding, Tom Rudinger Stan Weir, committee; Lloyd Clarke, property; Bluey Hearne, selector; S. McDonald, treasurer; Les Hockey and Arnold Johnston, trainers; some of these officials having been with the club for years previous.

The quality has always been there as shown by large numbers of players who were associated with higher classes of football and Railways. Some of these were Garth Nelson (Claremont). Bill Hawkins (Perth), David Moyes (Perth),Ken Gulvin (Perth) John Oag (Subiaco), Bob Coleman (perth), Harry Riseborough (South Fremantle), Brian Sarre (Subiaco, State and All Australian player), John Feutrill (Swan Districts), Colin Edwards (Swan Districts), Max Chester (Swan Districts), Bob Whalley (East Perth and State), Norm Uncle (Claremont), Orm Uncle (Carlton), Peter Tannock (East Perth), John Colreavy (Claremont), Robert Kitchen (Subiaco), Graham Cummins (South Fremantle), Terry Krummel (Claremont), Alan Rowe (Claremont) and G. Lynch (Swan Districts).

RAILWAYS FAIREST AND BEST PLAYERS

1947 Bluey Morris; 1948 Keith Cahill~ 1949 Ross McLeod •. 1950 Bob Sutton.: 1951 Eddie Gorham; 1952 Hal Symons; 1953 Hal Symons; 1954 Ross McLeod;

1955 Colin Edwards; 1956 Colin Edwards; 1957 Peter Williams; 1958 John Mumme; 1959 Wally Offer; 1960 John Oag; 1961 John Feutrlll; 1962 Peter Tannock; 1963 Colin Dahlberg; 1964 Colin Dahlberg; 1965 Murray Stoney; 1966 Pat Chick; 1967 Bob Coleman; 1968 Colin Bell; 1969 Colin Bell; 1970 Bob Whalley; 1971 Colin Bell; 1972 Bob Whalley; 1973 Barry Holt; 1974 Mal Cameron; 1975 Barry Holt; 1976 Bob Whalley; 1977 John Luscombe; 1978 Ric Hockey; 1979 Dave Haendel; 1980 Mike Waugh; 1981 Craig Bevan.

The seventies is the period when Railways began to establish club premises. with the purchase of the Earl Street Clubrooms in 1972 and in 1976 the beginning of negotiations to establish new club premises on the North Road Sporting Complex.

The new club premises were officially opened on June 13, 1978 although they were in use for some months prior to that date. Due to delays in obtaining a full club liquor licence, which became operative on January 1,1979, the club initially operated on a special weekly liquor permit for two nights a week.

The new club premises are a great credit and tribute to the many people who have put many years of labour into the club over our club's history.

The next important step for our club is the establishment of an oval on the area of land to the front of our premises, which already incorporate changeroom facilities. Negotiations with the Town of Albany have reached a stage where it is expected site works should commence on this project towards the end of 1981.lt is anticipated the oval will be established and available in 1984.

There are a few names to mention of persons who are actively (very) associated with the club at this moment and have been on and off for many years, the maximum period being 27 years - the old reliables in John Rowe, Arthur Hockey, Bill Robins, Kevin Bevan, Wally Offer, Bob Whalley, George Stephens, Graham Martin and Alan Smith.

Also a special mention must be made of the wives, mothers and girl friends of our club members who. over the years, have given just as much in time and effort to our club. Our ladies committee always having a good reputation.

1953 B. C. Adock; 1954 F. J. Lynch; 1959 C. Martin; 1960 S. Weir; 1960 R. McLeod; 1962 L. Hockey; 1963 E. Harding; 1964 A. Hearne; 1964 L. Clarke; 1965 C. Edwards; 1965 E. L. Baln; 1967 G. Stephens; 1967 A. Johnson; 1968 W. Robins; 1969 A. Hockey; 1970 J. Rowe; 1971 Mrs. P. Robins; 1974 D. Robins.

During the latter part of the 1980 season several ex-players decided to form a past players association and possibly hold a re-union during the 1981 season. Because the club was first formed in 1947, many players had to be contacted and addresses over the years had become obscure. After many hours of searching the self-elected workers set to and made contact through past players parents, uncles, cousins, in-laws or whatever and the response was very encouraging. So much so that the committee (self-elected) decided to hold the re-union on the Anzac weekend in April, 1981 and the show proved to be an outstanding success. Many players travelled from miles away, one from as far as Queensland, where he combined business with pleasure. Following the weekends festivities on the Saturday and Sunday, an inaugural meeting was held using the Claremont Football Club Past Players Association constitution as a guideline. An oHicial committee was formed and comprises George Stephens president, Arthur Hockey patron, Wally Offer secretary, Ross McLeod auditor, Ted Harding treasurer and committee of Arnold Johnston, Les Hockey, Max Shearer, Colin Edwards and Basil Hawkins. In conjunction with this, three ex-members volunteered to be on a metropolitan committee as contact points in Perth. They' are Bill Mangnall, Kevin Jackson and John Oag.

Several social events have been held since the re-union and the committee have been actively selling mallee roots during a very cold winter. The capital from these events has given the association something to work with in their planned programmes.

The goal of the association is to assist football in the Railways Football Club generally as seen fit at the time of need. This could mean players, general club assistance and help in running social events to improve club income. Anyone wishing to join the association has to pay a nominal fee of $2.00 over and above their normal club fee.

It is anticipated that the association members will travel to Perth during each year or so to re-unite with metro members to renew acquaintances in fellowship and keep the interest going. Grand final time each year would be a great time to do such a safari, but there may be too many sickies on the Monday morning instead of reporting for work.

The Railways Football Club boasts to be the first SDNFl club to form a Past Players And Officials Association and from the response so far the group should continue to grow.

Having held the reins for a little under 12 months I am probably the least qualified to talk about this great Club.

Railways have had another year of being the "whipping post" or the "poor relation" of the Albany clubs. Yet it is Railways they look to if anything needs organising. However, 1982 will be different. We have learned an awful lot out of the controversies created around us and we will be stronger for the experience. Job NO.1 this year is to find a coach who can harness the wealth of talent already there and ripen the up and coming talent so evident in our junior ranks.

Job NO.2 is to finish the task of putting the club finance in order and this should be achieved by the A.G.M. of 1982.

Job NO.3 is to assist the Town of Albany in the development of the oval. At the time of writing we are assured that the designs will be completed by November 1981 and the oval shaped by February and March, 1982. It is then up to the club to contribute time and effort if the development is to go further in the current year. We look forward with great optimism to 1982 and beyond.

W. J. PLEWRIGHT. President.

Since the production of the last S.D.N.F.L. Handbook in 1976, the Denmark Football Club has seen many changes and successes, which are in need of recording.

The year 1976 was not a particularly good one for the Magpies on the field. Joe Ward was the league coach but due to a lack of player support his task of moulding a competitive side was made very difficult. The committee of the time decided that 1977 could see the demise of the Denmark Club, having won only the one game in 1976 and club spirit was at an all-time low. A dinner meeting called all local businessmen and interested persons to attend at the Denmark Hotel.

The result of this meeting was that local businessmen P. Morrison, G. McLean and L. Fennell, showed a strong desire to become interested in the administration of the club and to put Denmark Football Club on the map.

Following the Annual General Meeting, Peter Morrison became president, Gordon McLean patron and Len Fennell with many other locals who had drifted away from the club, returned to the committee with plenty of enthusiasm and a few new ideas ready to be put into practice.

Local player, Kevin Lange, was appointed coach for the 1977 season and with the new-look committee bagan a campaign to win a premiership for Denmark. This involved a very innovative idea forthe S.D.N.F.L. which was to recruit players from Perth and transport them each week to play for the Magpies. The outcome of a lot of organising and money raising, which became a little easier as Denmark started to win games regularly. Four or five players from Perth were flown to Albany by plane each week.

Ex-Claremont league players, Colin Viska, Darryl Bell and Ken Caporn and local player Reg Watson were the eventual players to travel. The skill and experience of these chaps lifted the Denmark players and the team began to look good.

For the first time in its history Denmark was able to make the finals. They finished third and after winning the first semi-final progressed to the preliminary final. However, lack of experience and a fierce desire to win cost them this game and finished the club's hopes for that year.

Behind the scenes patron Gordon McLean worked to give Denmark a better playing surface. Immediately after the last home game, he moved into action, donating men and machinery in his effort to upgrade the oval. After much work and effort from many people (not forgetting the Shire Council) the ground was levelled, re-seeded and a watering programme commenced in readiness for the 1978 football season, which the club commenced with a more than firm desire to win the flag.

The 1978 season began with the same administrative committee, the only notable exception being Kevin Lange, who retired from coaching to concentrate on the playing side of his game. This meant a new coach had to be appointed. Brilliant local and former Swans player, Joe Burton, applied among others and was given the job. Motivation was not one of Joe's main worries as all players were very keen to succeed, but moulding a team of successful winners certainly was. To his credit this was achieved as the results of the season showed.

Many good players were in the Magpies camp during 1978, such as the Watson brothers (Mark now playing for Claremont). Darrel Bell, Peter Gianoli, Trevor Rodwell, Wally Pausin, Vern King and Jim Timms, plus the locals, many of whom have retired in the last couple of seasons.

The finals were again reached and in finishing on top of the premiership table, another first was reached for the club, as the final games, namely second semi­final and grand final, were played on the newly-named McLean Park. History was created as the Magpies triumphed in the grand final and won their first ever premiership pennant.

1979 saw Joe Burton again coach for the Magpies. The job this season became a little more difficult as retirements and transfer of players saw many new faces in the league side and consequently the balance of the previous season and determination to win was not always there each week. However the finals were again reach'ed.

Finishing third the Magpies were able to win the first semi-final and proceed to the preliminary final. In this game history was again created in the S.D.N.F.L. competition on a much different note. On a very wet, wintery day on a very sloppy surface, the Denmark players were unable to adapt and to the astonishment of coach Joe, the players, oppersition and spectators alike, the Magpies failed to score a single point during the whole game. Enough said!

1980 brought Wally Pausin to the Presidency and Darrel Bell as coach. The beginning of the season saw a change of direction to entice players to the Denmark Club. Retirements and transfers at the end of 1979 saw the club advertise and encourage players to come from other clubs within the S.D.N.F.L. to play for Denmark. This achieved limited success as the team spirit suffered and coach Darrel Bell had to work hard before players started to combine and work together towards the end of the season when the chance of reaching the finals was beyond them.

The highlight of 1980 was the achievement of club stalwart and veteran Phil "Middy" Middleton reaching a milestone of 250 league games for the Denmark club. This is the most league games any Denmark player has played and presently stands at 257 games spanning a playing period of 18 years with the club. He also played 10 seconds games and two seasons of C grade (now thirds) in 1960-61, being a member of the premiership side of 1960.

The 1981 season continued on from the end of 1980 with many players coming from Albany to help keep the club going. The lack of local players and the decision that bringing players from Perth was becoming too expensive was the reason for this situation continuing. To assist at training, a bus was chartered to bring players from Albany each Thursday and proved very popular.

To the delight of the locals one of the Watson brothers, namely Mark, became a regular and valuable member of the Claremont league team, which went on to win the 1981 premiership, Mark playing a handy part in that win.

In the second last game of the 1981 season coach Mike Hastings reached a milestone and joined several other players by playing his 100th game for the club. Under Mike's guidance the team was able to win only one game but his task was not an easy one with many players again retiri ng at the end of 1980. The president for this year was Phil Middleton.

A sadder note for 1981 was the passing of former club player, president, league delegate, strong club supporter and life member, Eddie Sutton.

Middleton B. Hard

P. Latham M. Ciccarelli M. Anning

T. Rodwell P. Giannoli

Timms

Lange V. King

M. Hasti,ngs

K. Hard R. Watson W. Pausin M. Watson

Rucks: N. Warham, S. Watson, D. Bell

Reserves P. Ricketts, S. Swallow, S. Forsyth

Coach: Joe Burton

Royals Football Club, generally recognised as being one of the Southern Districts National football League's strongest clubs, had its humble beginnings at the start of Albany's first organised football after the War years.

Since that time it has broadened its sphere of sports in modern times and can lay claims to a progressive attitude built on a foundation of tradition that Is the envy of many other sporting groups in the Great Southern.

The real beginning of the Royals Football Club came with the formation of the Albany Wartime Football Association as the Air Training Corps Football Club in 1944. Foundation officials included the late J. A. Barnesby (President), the late A. Hoffman (Secretary) and the late Paddy Brennan as the club's first coach.

In that year the first change rooms and headquarters of the club were beneath the south side of the present Centennial Oval grandstand.

The association was fairly small but the competition was fierce with players like Ted Penter, who won the first fairest and best award for the club, Graham Carpenter, Clarrie and Eric Smith, Doug Hendry and Peter Sarich, being a few of the star players in the team.

It is interesting to note that both Ted Penter and Graham Carpenter are both still active members of the club with a second generation of both families making their mark in more recent history of the club.

Premiership success came early to the ATC team with an A grade win in 1945. Ernie Manea, who later became mayor of Bunbury, and still donates an annual trophy to the club on behalf of himself and his late mother, was the captain of that side. Notable players of that year included a number of players who soon after played league football in Perth. Kieth McBride went to South Fremantle, Graham Carpenter to Subiaco, Max Hoffman to

East Perth and Eric Smith to Swan Districts:

The end of the War saw two great foot bailers return to Albany after being de­mobbed. These two still active members of the club. Maurie Bevan and Tom Nesbilt; jOined ATC in that year'and both gave invaluable service both as players and administrators over the years to follow. Maurie Bevan in particular became a life member of the club for his services rendered and also had the distinction of becoming a premiership president.

Premiership success came once again in 1947 under the astute leadership of club and association coach Albert Clarke. The fairest and best award was won by "Elleker" Smith. Able assistance was given by Alan Gosling, who, in the next year transferred to Swan Districts and later became WA's professional sprint running champion.

A good player for ATC in Len Haywood moved to South Fremantle in 1948 and began a long association with the club continuing up to the present time. Howard Halton appeared as coach in 1949, leading the club to its third premiership in 1950.

Graham Carpenter was the club's highest leading goalkicker with ld this still stands as a club record. A TC lost the services of Carpenter in 1951 wnen he was transferred to Subiaco and Dick Palm, a robust ruckman, also left to play league football in Perth.

The first coach of ATC, Paddy Brennan, assumed the presidency of the club in 1952 and together with coach Howard Halton won ATC's fourth premiership. In this year Ron Bevan had a successful season with East Fremantle.

In 1953 Royals Football Club came into being with Cliff Croxford beginning a five­year term of office and again with Howard Halton as coach, won its first premiership under its new tilie.

In 1954 Royals moved into their first clubrooms. This building had been an airforce dormitory and was situated adjacent to the Centennial Oval grandstand. The original concrete was laid by John McBride and Tom Nesbitt was responsible for the lining of the building.

In that year Mick Flecknoe went to East Perth, Ron Hall to Claremont as full forward, and Bill Hodges, a former Subiaco league player, joined the Royals. A golden run of success came forthe club with the start of the 1955 season. Royals strung together six successive premierships. Three of these were with the old Albany Districts Association and the other three with the newly formed Southern Districts National Football League. Howard Halton was again coach in the first three of these wins. A young player, Alan Hamilton, played for Perth during this year. Royals were premiers again in 1956 and during this year, Ted Penter and Graham Carpenter were made life members. Royals struck the jackpot in 1957, the first and only time that all three premierships, league, seconds and thirds came to the club. The successful coaches this year were Max Hoffman (League), Alan Hamilton (Seconds) and Jeff Pitts (Thirds). In this year Don Box was elected club secretary and held the post until 1961.

Norm Smith was the first Sunday Times Medal Winner for W.A. football and also finished seventh in the Sandover Medal y.thi]e playing for Claremont.

An undefeated year in 1958 under coach Jeff Pitts saw Alan Hamilton (present club president) win the goalkicking award with 69 goals. Peter Cooper and Ron Gabrielson played league football with South Fremantie this same year.

Alan Edwards was appointed club treasurer in 1960, which was again a premiership for the Royals.

An unlucky year in 1961 with the Royals coached by Norm Smith, undefeated in qualifying games, being eliminated in the preliminary final.

Norm Smith won the fairest and best for the club in this year and Ken Sargent began a long and still continuing association with the club.

Maurie Bevan took over as president in 1962 and this year saw the return to the premiership scene.

Mrs. (Ma) Manea became the first and only woman life member. The amount of time and effort put in by this wonderful lady was re"farded by the club's highest honour.

In 1962 the seconds won their second premiership to date. This is the last time Royals won a premiership in this grade. Peter Cooper won the Cobber Cook Memorial Medal for the fairest and best in the grand final of this year.

The four years to follow were non-premiership years for the Royals but there were still a number of notable happenings. Joe Menegola was the president from 1964 to 1966. Alan Edwards began an eleven year term as treasurer in 1965 and South Fremantie players Edgar Richardson and Ron Marland joined the Royals. Former Perth player Ron Harding signed with the club in 1966 and Henry Burden, still a great supporter of the club, coached the thirds. Alan Hamilton became a life member and Eddie Lange trained with South Fremantie.

Tony Ciprian jOined the club with a young Sam Hunter, with the club's entire drive to raise finance for the new rooms. Tony achieved life membership with the late Alf Clarke in 1971 and Sam Hunter with another great stalwart, Rod Spouse, in 1973. The name Ciprian has remained with the Royals right up until the present day with assistance in many dfferent forms, much appreciated by the club. Royals became an incorporated club in 1966 and it was from this time on that things really began to happen.

New clubrooms were erected and occupied in 1977. This represented a great leap forward and set the pattern for other clubs to follow, only now coming into fruition. Ron Harding coached the league team to their 13th premiership and also won the club's fairest and best for the year. Together with the club's new look, the Royals radio show "Once more the blue and whites" took to the air, handled by Brian Abbott. The official opening of the clubrooms took place in 1968 by the then league president, Stan Elson. The inaugural "Ma" Manea trophy was awarded to Mrs. Jean Hunter for outstanding services. Two notable personalities, Roger Bott and Ray Delmenico joined the club, both to give outstanding services over the years.

The club was fortunate to gain the services of Jardine Jamieson in 1971. He became thirds coach and later club secretary. He was awarded the "Ma" Manea trophy three years later and is still a very active member of the club.

Terry Marshall at the age of 16, won the club's fairest and best award and then joined East Perth. The following year Terry Stevenson joined the club and stood out of football for 12 months awaiting a clearance. The club acquired the services of Colin Edwards, an ex-Swans and local Railways player in 1971 as the coach. This year saw the Royals lose by two points in the grand final to North Mt. Barker, but the following year, still with the same coach, Royals won their 14th premiership by beating North Mt. Barker by two points. Joe Menegola was appointed the thirds coach this year and went on to secure four straight premierships. Ian Temby took over the club's radio show in 1971. He also was coach of the seconds team in 1973 and 1974. His services in 1976 won for him the "Ma" Manea club award for outstanding services.

Alan Hamilton was elected club president in 1974 and the club won its 15th premiership under Ron Harding. The club was successful in being granted a limited club licence to sell liquor. This has seen the arrival of big finance and turnover to the club.

Over the last couple of years people like Bruce Dalton. Rod Carter and Brian Clark have been responsible for the administration of the licence and have achieved considerable success along these lines.

The bar was officially opened by Albany Mayor, Harold Smith. Baden Harper was transferred to play with Claremont Football Club. It was during this time that the club began its slide to the bottom of the ladder for the first time ever, despite the growing efficiency and more businesslike administration side of the club. 1975, a year to forget on the field, but on the bright side, Alan Edwards and Bill Rodgers were awarded their life memberships ..

A return to the winning list in 1976 under new coach and previous player Brian Coulson. An extensive recruiting orive and the emergence of graduating thirds players paved the way for a good year all round for the club.

Max. Luscombe as seconds coach had the most successful year of seconds coaches for some time.

Noel Hulm, a great little player, who came up though the thirds, coached them to their 5th consecutive win.

Robin WauQh, another player who came up throuQh the ranks and is rated as one of the club's best ever footballers, took nearly a clean sweep of all local awards, including the Sunday Times Medal.

In 1977, under coach Ron Bowe, the thirds made it six premierships in a row and the league side rT1ade it a double under coach Brian Coulson. The fairest and best that year was won by Noel Hulm.

Club additions to lounge and bar areas were completed with great benefit to the future development of the. members and the club.

1978 saw Denmark win their first ever premiership with Royals being defeated in the preliminary final by South Mt. Barker, the margin being two points. The league coach waS Noel Hulm. For those who look for excuses, the preliminary final was played in appalling conditions.

Brian Humphries continues the winning sequence with the thirds, who, by their seventh straight win, broke the existing club record in any Qrade. The same year Darryl Panizza joined Claremont and went on to make the senior side and later on, the state side.

Others to play for Claremont the same year were Kim Bevan and Greg Stocks. The highlight of the year was the presentation to head trainer, Ken Sergant, of life membership. Fairest and best was won by Robin Waugh.

Rod Walsh was appointed league coach in 1979 and the club returned to become premiers once again in one of the most rugged encounters for many years. Captain Baden Harper won the Cobber Cook Medal and the thirds winning run came to an end at the hands of North Albany. Robin Waugh won the club's fairest and best for the second year in a row.

In 1980, again under coach Rod Walsh, the league side came runners-up to North Albany as did the reserves and thirds, the reserves having a much improved season under coach Bill Marshall.

The committee, under president Alan Hamilton, continued to promote the sporting club with success in premierships by the cricket team and the ladies softball team.

Highlight of the season was the first two players attaining 200 hundred games with the club, and of course life membership to Terry Marshall and Robin Waugh. Albert Van Eyk also received life membership for services rendered. Russell Cooper won the club's fairest and best and became the first father and son combination to win the club's highest award. Russell's father, Peter Cooper, won his fairest and best in 1.962-63.

1981 saw Mike Reed take over the reins as league coach with reserves coach being Bob Golding and Ross Humphries taking over the thirds. All three sides made the finals, the reserves being defeated in the first semi-final by Railways. the league and thirds making it to the grand final. The league side brought home the club's 17th league premiership and the thirds were worthy runners-up to a bigger side.

On the other side, the committee continues to expand with further extensions to the club's facilities by adding new change rooms and also a new cool room to the bar area. Plans are well in hand to change Centennial Oval and Royals accepted the contract to re-build the grandstand closer to the present club rooms. Russell Cooper again re-wrote the history book by being the only father-son combination to win the club fairest and best in successive years. Murray Smith won the Weld trophy and brother Ramon Smith won the Cobber Cook Medal. League captain for the year was M. ("Sticky") Bell.

LEAGUE OFFICE BEARERS - 1981

Patrons:

Messrs. H. B. Kleemann and W. H. Backshall

Vice-patron: Mr. T. R. O'Neill

President: Mr. H. C. Reeves

Vice-president: Mr. R. H. Bannister

Secretary/Manager: Mrs. E. Hockey

Committee:

Club Delegate Proxy

Denmark B. Palmer M. Ryan

North Albany T. Martschlnke D. Heales

North Barker J. Dennis B. Gilbert

Railways B. Robins A. Northcott

Royals A. Hamilton L. Hotker

South Barker J. Clothier G. Szczesny

Publicity and Promotion:

Davis (Albany Promotions)

Umpires Advisor:

D. Horrocks

Umpires Board:

D. Horrocks, T. Martschlnke, D. McKain, J. Clothier

Radio Panel Comperes:

Saturday: G. Pollett - Sunday: G. Pollett, K. Hook

Tribunal:

N. Murray, T. Penter, O. Uncle

Year 1958 1959 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 1965 1966 1967 .1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974 1975 1976 1977 1978 1979 1980 1981

President

J. A. Hutchinson J. A. Hutchinson H. B. Kleemann H.B. Kleemann J. A. Hutchinson W. H. Backshall W. H. Backshall W. H. Backshall W. H. Backshall D. Box

Stan Elson

Stan Elson

T. R. O'Neill

1. R. O'Neill

T. R. O'Neill

T. R. O'Neill

T. R. O'Neill

T. R. O'Neill

H. J. Henderson H. J. Henderson H. C. Reeves

H. C. Reeves

H. C. Reeves

H. C. Reeves

Secretary

H. P. Hardiman

R. O. Sounness K. G. Colvin

K. G. Colvin

E. W. A. Douglas E. W. A. Douglas E. W. A. Douglas E. W. A. Douglas E. W. A. Douglas G. Westthorp

E. W. A. Douglas E. W. A. Douglas E. W. A. Douglas

1. W. A. Douglas

2. W. Moncaster P. J. Reynolds Mrs. M. Hambley Mrs. M. Hambley Mrs. E. Hockey Mrs. E. Hockey Mrs. E. Hockey Mrs. E. Hockey

J. A. HUTCHINSON (D'cd.)

H. B. KLEEMANN

H. BACKSHALL T. R. O'NEILL

W. A. DOUGLAS

Enter your answer here

Winner Club

K. Rule North Albany

G. Houston Cranbrook

G. Hambley South Barker

R. Potter Railways

D. Jackman North Albany

P. Green North Albany

L. Bradley South Barker

S. Penny Railways

N. Koenig North Albany

B. Tindale Denmark

R. Bynder South Barker

J. Brogmus Royals

B. Woods Railways

R. Lowe North Albany

R. Humphries Royals

Winner

D. Holt

N. Uncle

C. Penter M. Rodgers R. Piggott P. Ganzer G. Boucher D. Williams C. Bevan

W. Donohoe W. Edgar

K. Wynne

T. Hunter

T. Palfrey

Club Railways Railways Royals Royals Railways Denmark North Albany South Barker Railways North Barker Royals

North Albany Royals Railways

1975 L. Holt

1976 Ted Taylor

1977 P. Krakouer

1978 K. Draper

1979 R. Watson

1980 N. Williams

1981 A. Coyne

ROYALS - Royal Blue, White "V"

NORTH ALBANY - Red, White vertical panel and cuffs, plain Red back.

RAILWAYS - Gold and Black

SOUTH MT. BARKER - Maroon and Gold vertical stripes.

NORTH MT. BARKER - Black with Red sash.

DENMARK - Black and White.

G. Colbung

J. Bos

C. Edwards W. Campbell A. Barnett T.Sutton

D. Mill

W. McPharlin C. Proudlove P. Krakouer M. Ciccarelli R. Smith

R. Elliott

C. Elliott

During 1955-56, football in the Lower Great Southern appeared to be in the doldrums and going down further. Accordingly a little band of enthusiasts led by r. J. A. Hutchinson, Chairman of the Albany Board of Control and officials of Mt. Barker Football Association met in 1957.

s a result of this meeting, a meeting was held in Mt. Barker in February, 1958 at which the S.D.N.F.L. actually came into being. Firstly as a trial, seven teams started off, these being North Albany, Royals, Railways, North Mt. Barker, South t. Barker and Western Districts. Denmark were admitted later.

Mr. J. A. Hutchinson, who must be considered the founder of the S.D.N.F.L., was elected as the first president and served as such in 1958-59-62. Other officers elected were Mr. H. Kleeman (Chairman of Mt. Barker Football Association) vice­president and Mr. H. Hardiman as secretary. Also present at this meeting were J. Sarre and T. Rudinger, A.B.C.; T. Kelly and K. Sounness, South Mt. Barker; H. Reeves and W. Backshall, North Mt. Barker; C. Stubber and F. Cummings, Western Districts; W. Lathwell and B. Williamson, Cranbrook; R. O. Sounness, Mt. Barker Association secretary.

or the first couple of years football was played under an agreement as domestic ootball. After many of the initial difficulties were ironed out discussions were eld regarding the producing of a constitution. This was drawn up in 1962 and approved by the W.A.N.F.L. and was printed and distributed at the beginning of 1963.

The first minutes available are from a meeting held in Mt.Barker on 21st March 1960. Mr. H. Kleeman was appointed President and Mr. R. O. Sounness secretary. Delegates from each of the eight clubs being present and also the secretary of the Albany Association, Mr. Hardiman, who attended most of the 1960 meetings.

hen the league first started local central umpires were used, with the possible exception of the Grand Final when a W.A.N.F.L. umpire was brought down to control the game.

An application to the W.A.N.F.L. in 1962 for central umpires for 1963 was rejected by the W.A.N.F.L. as being too far south for umpires to travel. A further application or the 1964 season was made and granted on a one year trial basis. These arrangements continued until 1975 when costs made it prohibitive and local umpires were again used in 1976.

Since then the League has continued to foster its own umpire's panel and was one of the first Leagues in the state to adopt the two umpires system which is now permanently established at League level and the trend towards this system in the Reserves is now strong.

Two clubs were lost to the league at the beginning of the 70's when firstly Cranbrook transferred to the Central Great Southern League in 1970 and in 1971 Western Districts went into recess. Eventually Cranbrook also went into recess and several players from that area have returned to play with other Southern Districts clubs, principally the Mt. Barker teams. The loss of Cranbrook and Western Districts were directly due to the decline of the rural population during is decade, a problem which has affected most of the old established areas.

Initially the league catered for League and Seconds competitions, but in 1958 moves began among clubs for a younger competition which eventually developed to the Albany C Grade Association, an organisation which was eventually absorbed into the S.D.N.F.L. as the Thirds Competition in 1966.

By mid-1970's the need for more junior grades saw the expansion of the Albany Nippers Association and the formation of the Southern Districts Junior Council, e former catering for the very young and the latter, under the league's auspices, catering for !he 14 and 16 year old players.

Considerable planning was done in 1980 which resulted in the amalgamation of (hose two bodies at the start of 1981 and the creation of the Southern Districts Junior Football Association which now controls all football up to 15 years of age throughout the area, catering for children from as young as six and seven but heavy emphasis has been placed on the modern trend of modified rules and non competitive football at the very young ages.

One of the major developments within the league during the 1970's was in inter­league competition. Both Albany and Mt. Barker were foundation Associations of he Great Southern Council in 1922 and participants in the annual Great Southern Carnival, which event in the period between the two wars and until 1962 was the premier football event of the year.

In 1962 the format of the carnival was changed to cater for the trend towards Leagues instead of Associations, but the new format did not capture the public in the same way and by 1976 had become only a one day knockout carnival which was not successful.

In 1977 Southern Districts undertook to completely revamp this carnival and for the last five years have conducted a two day event which is gradually restoring the competitive nature of Australia's oldest country football carnival. At the same time the Council was re-organised to include new teams in Ongerup and Lower South West as well as the original four teams and the Council has become an effective forum for the promotion of country football.

In 1971, on the initiative of a group of players, Southern Districts entered the Country Week Championships for the first time. Until then there had been considerable resistance to the Championships but the move proved very popular and Southern Districts has .been a regular participant since then. Although not as yet successful in this competition the league has played off in the Second Division Grand Final on three occasions and ih 1979 and 1980 won promotion to the A section.

.

Another major development of the 1970's was the introduction by the W.A.F.L. of the zoning system in 1971 under which scheme the S.D.N.F.L. became part of the Claremont Football Club territory. There have been many problems with zoning but both sides are now becoming more accustomed to it and the early antagonism to it, principally from the football public, is gradually being overcome.

It is inevitable that there will always be some resistance to zoning but there are also advantages. I n particular the Claremont club has provided an opportunity for many junior players to gain experience. often on interstate trips, and take part in coaching clinics.

At the same time the S.D.N.F.L. has contributed a number of top players to the Claremont club and this was strongly evidenced early in 1981 when the Southern Districts staged a "Zone of Origin" match against Claremont in Albany.

Players who are currently playing regularly with the Claremont League side in 1981 and who began their football careers in the Southern Districts are Darryl Panizza and Baden Harper (Royals), Allan Daniels (North Albany). Phillip and Jim Krakouer (North Mt Barker) and Mark Watson (Denmark).