Early Fitzroy photos
Fitzroy is my favorite part of Melbourne, not just for the football team that once existed, but the character of the place. Here are some early photos that capture some of that, courtesy Picture Victoria.
This shows Smith Street, with Fitzroy on the left and Collingwood on the right. (more…)
The greatest VFL performance ever
Possibly the best performance ever by a VFL/AFL team in the home and away season occurred in round 13, 1983 when Fitzroy defeated North Melbourne at the Junction Oval.
It was more than half way through the season, with North on top of the ladder and Fitzroy third.
Fitzroy totally obliterated the Kangaroos to win 34.16.220 to 10.10.70. I’m pretty sure it was the highest winning margin ever recorded against a ladder-leading side.
The current AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou played for North Melbourne in that game, probably one he would rather forget. Ruckman Matt Rendell booted eight goals for the Lions, Mick Conlan and Bernie Quinlan seven each. (more…)
Fitzroy in the movies
Browsing YouTube earlier tonight I discovered a film reference to Boulevard of Dreams (1988), starring John Waters, in which he whispers “Carn the mighty Roys” to his unborn child.
The only other cinematic reference to Fitzroy Football Club that I’m aware of is a segment in The Club showing highlights of a semi-final against Collinggwood.
Here’s the Waters’ quote:
Fitzroy’s last premiership
Fitzroy’s last premiership was in the VFL reserves in 1989:
Fitzroy at Brunswick Street Oval
I came across a wonderful site called Maroon and Blue that’s dedicated to documenting and celebrating the history and culture of the Fitzroy Football Club.
I really liked the article 1944 And All That about the post-war era while Fitzroy still played at the Brunswick Street Oval.
I’ve heard stories about that era, but it’s great to see them written: the parochialism, the fights on the hill, the drunks, the police, attacks on the umpires, etc. (more…)
Haydn Bunton: Legend and Myth
I’m privileged to publish this story.
Several months ago I converted to YouTube “The Ballad of Haydn Bunton” by Ken Mansell and Peter Bell.
I conceded at the time I was probably breaching copyright, and if Ken didn’t like it he could let me know.
Ken discovered the video recently and caned me with the soft end of a feather duster: (more…)
Fitzroy against the odds
What a treasure, and thanks to YouTube.
Fitzroy left the AFL in 1996 so quality video is hard to come by.
I came across this clip tonight, which I think is from a game in 1991. Whatever the year, I remember coach Robert Shaw taking the team across to supporters at three-quarter-time for a rev-up and getting the win. (more…)
