Club History
The Year 1974 – Year One
The place – Townsville, Sharks Touch Football and Social Club is formed. Len Sharkey had contacted a few of his past football friends and business acquaintances to form a team in the inaugural year of Touch Football in Townsville.
Ten teams competed in the Townsville Association, which was founded by Graham Gordon, the Association’s first President. The teams included – Shockers, South’s Oldies, Wea Sharpies, Teejarels, City Redskins, Patto’s Mob, Feds, Leprechauns, Bulldozers and of course, Sharks.
The initial year there was only an open Men’s competition that had no age restrictions, although the majority of players were around 25 – 30 years old. All games were played at the Mindham Park Junior Rugby League grounds.
Sharks’ colours were sky blue and black in keeping with the Sydney Football Club – the Cronulla Sharks, from which the team derives its name. It may also be said that the team name was in part derived from the Club’s founder’s name SHARKey.
Some the players to ‘don’ the Sharks colours in the first year included:
Len Sharkey, Ken Bird, John Reece, Terry Kilminster, Jim Mullen, Paul Drewe, Warren Mallory, Dennis Thompson, Graham Martin, Mike Richards, Ken Doherty, Greg Aitkens, Ray Saveran, Rick Shaw, Bob Goodward, Richard Wardrop.
It was a colourful entertaining year, in which the team finished in 9th place in front of Teejarels. Souths Oldies won the competition defeating the stronger teams of the likes of Shockers, Bulldozers and Patto’s Mob. Len Sharkey (the Sharks first team captain) was quickly into the record books as he was the only player to be sent from the field for striking another player in a game. John Reece was the team Secretary and the team’s delegate on the T.T.F.A. (Townsville Touch Football Association) Committee.
The Year 1975 – Year Two
In the second year the T.T.F.A. had changed the age limits with only one competition which was over 25 years. The Association had expanded into 16 teams with some of the new teams being Frogs, Vale, Brothers and Wallbangers.
Some of the new faces that had joined the Sharks lineup in 1975 included Trevor Errington, Peter Joyce, John Spillane, Brian Gee, Ken Mc Millan, Alan Love, Trevor Lease, Maurie Page.
Len Sharkey commenced the year as team captain, although after round nine of the competition, Len left the team, and Trevor was appointed as captain.
Team morale was at a low level in the mid-season, mainly because there were too many players at each game and most members were uneasy about the minimum amount of time spent on the field. As a result of this, several players left the club midway through the year to play with other teams. The Club finished the season with only 7 to 8 players attending each game.
Sharks finished thirteenth out of the 16 teams.
The Year 1976 – Year Three
In 1976, Sharks had recruited a number of new players to fill the ranks of the depleted 1975 side. The 1976 team included:
Trevor Errington (Captain), K. Bird, J. Reece, T. Kilminster, J. Mullin, R. Wardrop, P. Drewe, P. Joyce, J. Spillane, M. Richards, and new players of Geoff Sleeman (Sheepy), Col Holdsworth (who me, Sir), Graham Lee, Ted Roberts, Robert Rushton, John Vincent and Merv Keys.
With the costs of running the Club growing all the time, the team conducted a “Casino Holiday” raffle and raised in excess of $ 500 to fund Club expenses for Shirts etc.
In 1976, Sharks finished in 10th place, in the Townsville Association’s enlarged size competition, which now had 20 teams.
New teams such as Wallbangers, Wags, Vultures, Whirlies Oldies, Bippy Bitters and Midas (Magnetic Island) had joined the Association.
John Reece remained as Sharks Secretary and Delegate to the T.T.F.A. and was Publicity Officer for the T.T.F.A.
Col Holdsworth was to become the Club talent scout of 1976 (and years to come) as he introduced many new players to the Club over the next few years.
Sharks posted a record score in Townsville in 1976 defeating Frogs 25 – 0. Peter Joyce scored a massive 6 tries in this game. The record against Frogs stood until 1979 when City Redskins defeated Frogs 27 – 0.
The Year 1977 – Year Four
Sharks were developing into a sound club and had a consolidated player base. However, a few new faces entered the Club in 1997 to replace those players who had retired from the game.
Dave Kellett joined the team (introduced by Col Holdsworth). Dave brought with him a new dimension to the team, as a league player who possessed all the skills, he adapted to touch football immediately.
Ken Sutcliffe (of Channel Nine “Wide World of Sports” fame) also joined the team in 1977. Ken was nicknamed “Kenny No Pass”. Other Players to join in that year included Geoff Eales and Phil Smith.
Trevor Errington remained as Team Captain, Peter Joyce was elected Sharks Club Secretary and T.T.F.A. Committee delegates, while John Reece was Vice President of the Townsville Association and Treasurer of the North Queensland Association.
Sharks performed exceptionally well during the 1977 season, finishing Fifth on the ladder out of 24 teams in the competition.
The money raised from the “Casino Holiday Raffle “ of the previous year also carried the team over in the 1977 season.
The Year 1978 – Year Five
The 1978 team was much the same as the previous year with the only additional player to join the team being Charles Beaumont.
The team sought a sponsor to assist in defraying some of the growing costs of the club and Vin Vafradies of “Vin’s Nathan Service Station” signed a one year deal for $ 500. The deal was put together by Terry Kilminster and John Reece and throughout the year Vin provided the odd refreshment and plenty off field support.
Sharks performed well on and off the field in 1978, being undefeated up to and including Round 15 of the competition. The team finished in Fifth place out of the 25 teams in the T.T.F.A.
For the second year in a row Sharks lost their first Semi Final match to Whirlies Oldies.
Dave Kellett took over the reigns as Team Captain and Geoff Eales became Club Secretary and Team Delegate.
The Year 1979 – Year Six
New player to join the Club in 1979 included Peter Young and Mike Beatson.
The season set off to a good start with Sharks holding an “Anything Goes Show” at the beginning of the year which set the social mood for the Club for the whole year.
The parties were more often and were regularly held with other Clubs such as “Poopdeckers” and “Rum Runners”.
On an annual visit to Magnetic Island to play the Midas side in April, 1979, the team went over on Friday night and partied the whole weekend leading up to the game at Horseshoe Bay at 9.00 am on Sunday. The team had braved a mild cyclone on Friday night and had consumed untold quantities of Amber Fluid before meeting MIDAS (who were at that stage running last on the league ladder). Sharks were in Fourth place.
A little after half-time MIDAS led 5 – 0, when Sharks had realised they were in trouble, however, the final score – MIDAS 5 SHARKS 2.
The Sharks players still remember the weekend party, not many the score.
Sharks finished the season once again in the Fifth place and met Whirlies Oldies in the first SEMI FINAL. However, with only 9 players available on the day, the team could not hold onto the narrow half time lead, and were defeated for the Third year in a row by Whirlies Oldies in the first Semi Final.
Dave Kellett continued as Sharks Team Captain with Geoff Eales as Club Secretary and Delegate, while John Reece was President of the Townsville Association.
The team was sponsored by Dorf Taps in 1979 and 1980, a deal that was organised by Terry Kilminister, which netted the Club $1,000 over the 2 years.
The Year 1980 – Year Seven
The first year of the New Decade saw many changes in the team, with many of the old faces moving on. The 1980 team included:
Ken Bird, Terry Kilminister, John Reece, Dave Kellett, Trevor Errington, Geoff Sleeman, Geoff Eales, Charles Beaumont, Mike Beatson with new players Brian Perry, Barry Paget and Mike Dowsett.
By the end of the 1980 season, Sharks Touch Football Club had in its first seven years reached many milestones, some of which are noted below:
-In the 7 years from 1974 – 1980, no less than 52 players had passed through the Club.
- Six players had attained 100 or more games
-Ken Bird
-John Reece
-Richard Wardop
-Terry Kilminster
-Trevor Errington
-Geoff Sleeman
-Seven players had represented Townsville in Inter-City Touch Football
-Dave Kellett
-Richard Wardrop
-Trevor Errington
-Geoff Sleeman
-Phil Smith
-Peter Young
-Len Sharkey
-Five players had held positions on the Townsville Touch Football Association Executive Committee
-John Reece (President/Vice President/Publicity Officer)
-Geoff Sleeman (Registrar)
-Terry Kilminister (Selector/T.T.F.A. Committee)
-Peter Joyce (T.T.F.A. Committee)
-Geoff Eales (T.T.F.A. Committee)
The Year 1981 – Year Eight
1981 was an historic year for the Sharks Club as, for the first time, Sharks had two teams affiliated with the T.T.F.A.
In 1980 the T.T.F.A. introduced an Over 35 years age group competition and it was in 1981 that Sharks fielded a team in both the Over 25 years competition and the Over 35 years competition.
Many of the players in the early years of the two age groups played two games on a Sunday.
Dave Kellett was Captain of the Over 35 Side (Sharks Oldies) which included such players as Terry Kilminster, B. Paget, Ken Wright, Bob Benes, to mention a few. Len Sharkey returned to the Club in 1981 in the Over 35 team.
The Over 35 team made it to the Grand Final that year, being the first Sharks Touch side to play in a Grand Final. The opponents were arch rivals Shockers. Sharks led 5 – 0 at the half time break, only to eventually lose the Grand Final to Shockers 6 –5. Some consolation can be taken from the score as up until that time, Shockers had never had more than 3 tries scored against them in one game in their entire 8 year history in the competition.
1981 was a year for records for Sharks with evergreen Shark “Dave Kellet” winning the 1981 Best & Fairest Trophy for the T.T.F.A. Over 35 years competition. This award capped of a good year for Dave who represented Townsville in the Inter-City Carnival held in Tully and went on to play for North Queensland and Queensland Over 35 Mens Touch Teams.
Sharks Open Team finished in eleventh place in that year, with such new faces joining the team as Dennis O’Keefe D.O.K., Elbow and Mouse (such nicknames).
The Year 1982 – Year Nine
1982 Sharks once again fielded an Open Men’s side and a Senior team (O/35’s). The Open side was captained by John Reece with the O/35’s being captained by Dave Kellett.
The Open side included such names as Ken Bird, Tony Mitchell, Doug (Beachball) Westaway, Ian Patmore, Jeff Coward, Gary Wells, M. Hutton, Phil Smith, Mal Cherry, John McBeath, Ian (Gilly) Williams, K. Concannon, A. Wheeler and Doc O’Keefe, The O/35’s side included players such as Terry “killa” Kilminster, Jim Muller, Wayne Williams, R. Caught, Mick Jones, Len Sharkey, Dennis Pegg, Tony Kiddle, Col Lansbury, P. Walsh, Col Jenkinson and Barry Paget.
The O/35’s were to make the grand final for the second year in succession, but were to be beaten 4 – 2, with Tony Kiddle scoring both touch downs for the Sharks side. This side had earlier in the season won the Besser State Club Men’s Senior Championship.
Mal Cherry was to win both the Best and Fairest and most touch downs for the Open Men’s with Dave Kellett winning the Best and Fairest for the O/35’s and Tony Kiddle scoring the most touch downs.
1982 was to be the last season for another ‘original’ of the 1974 side in John Reece who was transferred in his employment. John had held positions on the executive of the Sharks Club and the Townsville Touch Association as well as captaining the Sharks Open side and was sure to be missed within the Club.
Players include Doc, Wellsy, DougyWestaway, Tony, Mitchel, gilly, Ben Comondson, JR Richardson
Year 1983 – Year Ten
1983 was to see Sharks grow in strength with the inclusion of two new Sharks sides with the forming of a Men’s Second Division team and a Ladies team which was to play in the open division (the only division that existed for the Ladies at that time).
New players into the fold included in the Open and O/35’s side were Mick Harris, Paul Smith, John Richardson, Garry Maher, Bobby Leon with new faces in Men’s Second Division such as Col O’Brien, Garry Wells, A. Tyson, G. Dinsmore . Members of the inaugural Ladies team were Ann O’Brien, Judy Jenkinson, Lou Wells, Grace Cardillo, Liz Patmore, Karen Blakley, Sue Langford, Trish Walsh, B. Gordy, Sue O’Connell, Cherie Casey, Maureen May and Alyson Wheeler. Maureen May created a first for the Sharks by winning the Best and Fairest for the Townsville Association in the Ladies inaugural season.
Sharks once again sent two sides, a Senior Men’s and an Open Ladies to the Besser Club Championships in Rockhampton with limited success on the field but held their own on the social side.
The Year 1984 – Year Eleven
In 1984 the Sharks Club was continuing to grow as they were now fielding seven sides with the addition of a Men’s Third Division, an O/30’s Men and a Second Division Ladies side (there was now a First and Second Division in the Ladies Competition).
New players to the club included Ken Leon, Tanya and Barbara Wright, Gail Smith, Terry Osmond, Sue Cole, Joanne Hegarty, Karen Gleeson, Lance Caspani, Ben Edmondson, Kevin Walsh, Andrew Kellett, Neil Menkinson, Andy Cochrane, Jackie Larsen, Chris Grove, Lyn Pugh, Mandy and Judy Longford and Kathy (Fuz)Fasselldeen.
Three sides were to make the finals in the ’84 with the Ladies Second Division coached by Gary Wells recording the first Grand Final win for a Sharks Ladies Team.
Highest Touch Downs for 1984 were:
Men’s First: Doug Grehan - 17
Second: Richard Watson - 13
Third: B. Griffin - 5
O/30: Tony Mitchell - 21
O/35: Dave Kellett - 10
Ladies First: Sue Cole/MandyLongford - 7
Second: Judy Jenkinson - 22
The Year 1985 – Year Twelve
1985 saw a controversial start to the season with the stand down of President elect Doc O’Keefe from his position and Mick Harris taking over the reins of the club before the first touch was initiated. The club continued to grow fielding 8 teams in the Townsville competition, one of only two clubs to do so with the addition of a Ladies Third Division team.
The club moved to the Townsville Showgrounds for training and made the West End Hotel its Headquarters where it commenced a Saturday Morning Goose Club, organised by WTP Grant and Spook Walsh that usually turned into a Saturday Night Raffle. On several occasions during the season it was required to hold after training discussions at the new headquarters with the hotel doors locked and the only light being from the beer fridge.
The touch competition was played at the Junior Soccer fields and of the eight teams 5 were to make the semi-finals and one, the Ladies 3, coached by Barry Padget, the Grand Final. (Who could forget Robbie Weir and his two offsiders entertaining the crowd dressed in their finery, top baton twirlers?)
New faces to join Sharks in 1985 included Jeff (JJ) Jarrott, Ray and Gail Wilson, David (Chooky) Drinnen and Jenny Ridley, Jennifer Gleeson, Brian Smith, WTP Grant, Joanne Mc Conachie, Joanne Pegg, Danny Baker, John Foster, Tony Parsons to name a few. On a sad note, 1985 was to mark the end of playing days for one of the originals of Sharks Terry “killa” Kilminister. “Killa” had held many positions in the club including President and was a firm believer in “it’s nice to win but it is a must to have a good time” and was responsible for many top social activities held by Sharks up until his retirement as a player.
Coaches and Awards for the 1985 Season were:
Coach Best and Fairest Coach’s Award
Men’s 1
Col Jenkinson Ray Wilson Andy Cochrane
Men’s2
Ken Leon Ken Leon Noel Clauss
Men’s 3
Andy(Phantom)Cochrane Doc Harvey Sutton Terry Turner
O/30
Ben Edmondson Jeff Coward Terry Duvell
O/35
Len Sharkey Dave Kellett Tony Kiddle
Ladies 1
Gary Wells Barb Wright Gail Smith
Ladies 2
Mick Harris Jackie Larsen Sheryl Howell
Ladies 3
Barry Padget Gail Wilson Lou Wells
Men’s 35 Try ScorerDave Kellett
Best Club Team Ladies Third Division
The Year 1986 - Year Thirteen
Sharks Touch Club appeared to be continuing to grow with nine teams nominated for the 1986 competition, the increase being a second Ladies Third team. Unfortunately, however, due to transfers or “buns in the over” of some of the First Division Ladies from the 1985 side, the club found it not possible to field a Division 1 Ladies team, thus we entered the 86 season with 8 sides.
Townsville Touch had now moved its headquarters to Mount Louisa and once again as in 1985 Sharks were to have 5 of the 8 sides in the semi-final, but within more success than the previous year with the Ladies Division 2, coached by Col Jenkinson and Ladies Third Division coached by David Boye/Spook Walsh successful in taking out the premierships in their respective divisions.
Several Sharks were to represent the Townsville and Castle Hill Associations at the North Queensland Carnival with the following players being selected to represent North Queensland:
- Andy Cochrane Open Men’s
- Jeff Jarrott Open Men’s
- Ray Wilson O/30 Men’s
- Gilly Williams O/35 Men’s
New players to join the club were to include – Gary “Kiwi” Mc Grath, Jean Shannon, Linda Mc Combe, Robyn Maher, Sally Miller, Peter “misfortune” Mc Culloch, Peter Pugh , Trevor Bartholomew, Joe Corser, Brian Lowe, Patricia Goldsack, Darryl Serrurier, Brad Ryder, Barry Pugh (shy Sharks) to mention a few. During the season, the club was to lose another two Sharks stalwarts in Gary and Lou Wells, both who had played a major role in the development of the Sharks Ladies teams.
On the social scene the first of many annual progressive dinners was held. Sharks Touch Club’s progressive dinners are a little different from others in the sense that instead of going from house to house and people being aware of whose houses you are going to next, Sharks travel by bus, pub to pub, with only one person knowing where the next stop is and where they were to finish up. Sometimes even the publican was not aware that you were coming. So, as you can imagine it was a great surprise to 94 Sharks players and supporters, when on the first progressive dinner, we finished at the Rollingstone Hotel, although it was a sure way to keep everyone together, one of the highlights of the night being the publican at the Midtown Hotel asking “if I give you $30, will you stay and extra 15 minutes, which, of course they did.
Awards for the 1986 season were:
Best and Fairest Coach’s Award
Men’s 1 Joe Corser Paul Smith
Men’s 2 Ken Leon Darryl Serrurier
Men’s 3 Terry Turner Brad Ryder
Men’s O/30 John Kubacki Brian Smith
Men’s O/35 Tony Mitchell Peter Lee
Ladies 2 Gail Smith Sue Cole
Ladies 3A Maureen Clauss Joanne McConochie
Ladies 3B Gail Wilson Robyn Maher
Men’s O/35 Try Scorer - Tony Mitchell
Best Team - Ladies 3B
Best Club Member - WTP Grant
The Year 1987 – Year Fourteen
1987 saw Sharks increase in size to become the largest club in the competition in that with the return of a First Division Ladies and an additional Men’s 3B side, the club was now fielding 10 teams in the local competition. Six teams were to make it to the semi-finals with the Second Division Ladies coached by Jackie Larsen and the 3A Division Men’s coached by Barry (let’s tackle) Pugh making it to the Grand Final and the Club receiving the TTA President’s Cup for 1987.
Once again, the Club was to lose personalities who had made a significant impact on the club with the transfer of Ray and Gail Wilson. Gail (who could forget her in the shorts on the bar at West End doing the Goose Club draw) had been Club Secretary for 3 years, trying to keep the executive in line as well as having coached the 3A Ladies side, whilst Ray (well known for his charm and self control) had captained and coached both the First Division Men’s and O/30 Men’s side as well as being a regular North Queensland Representative. Also to retire that season was one of the two originals from the ’74 side still playing in Len Sharkey (after who the club name had been partly derived). Len had contributed his skills and knowledge of touch to others, not only at Club level but also at representative level. On a lighter note, Len in his last game was seen to be giving a helping hand to an opposition player, unfortunately, the hand wasn’t wanted and Len received six weeks.
Faces new to the scene included Linda Rainnie, Natasha Patterson, Debbie Lenagan (selected in the Queensland Ladies O/25’s), Sonia Wilson, Glenda Bonner, Robyn Keen, Rick and Dana Finn, Dianne Johnson, Kathy Mulroney, Kay Baker, Stephen Parsons, Michael Hagarty.
Awards for the 1987 season were:
Best and Fairest Coach’s Award
Ladies 1 Gail Smith Linda Rainnie
Ladies 2 Tricia Goldsack
Ladies 3A Robyn Maher Sonia Wilson
Ladies 3B Therese Powers Robyn Keen
Men’s 1 Tony Parsons Lance Caspani
Men’s 2 John Linden Danny Ryder
Men’s 3A Mark Davis Rick Finn
Men’s 3B Michael Hagarty James Roseler
Men’s O/30’s Ray Wilson
Men’s O/35’s Tony Mitchell Kel Ackland
Men’s O/35 Try Scorer Tony Mitchell
Best Club Team Men’s O/30’s
Best Club Member Paul Smith
The Year 1988 – Year Fifteen
One of the first aims of the Sharks Executive for 1988 was to gain major sponsorship, as there had been no major sponsor associated with the club for the previous three years. This was found through Peter Caspani of Peter Caspani Insurance Agencies Pty Ltd who offered the club major sponsorship for the ’88 season with the availability of further sponsorship in future years.
Another aim for 1988 was to find a clubhouse for Sharks, as the goose club at the West End Hotel had ceased after 2 ½ years an it was the belief of the Executive that a location was needed were players and supporters could do their own thing. Paul Smith mentioned to WTP Grant that the Jaycees Hall at the Showgrounds was empty for most of the year and may be available for rent. On inspection it was decided that it had everything a true Shark would want “A Bar”, so it was decided that WTP Grant and Tony Parsons approach the Jaycees and the Showgrounds as to the availability of the hall. All parties were happy to rent the hall to the Sharks Club, thus creating “The Sharks Club House”, another first for the club, as no other club had its own clubhouse.
Sharks fielded nine teams in the 1988 competition with the 3B Men’s dropping out. Of the nine teams, six were to make the semi-finals with the 3A Ladies coached by Kenny Leon making it to the Grandfinal.
Once again, Sharks had several players gaining inter-city selection with Sue Cole (OL), Sonia Wilson (U20L), Tanya Wright (U20L), Gail Smith and Debbie Lenahan (O25L), Paul Smith (O30M) and Stephen Parsons (U20M) being selected to represent North Queensland. From the state titles, Debbie Lenahan, Sue Cole and Tanya Wright were selected at state level in their respective divisions.
Some new faces to the club included Scott Braby, Kathy Walker, Rose Caranagh, Kerryn Wiseman, Stephanie Ogden, Calvin Stanley, Mark Valenti, Janette Senent, Michael Nicholson, Christine Mc Innes, Tracey Walsh among others.
On the social scene, who could forget the ‘P’ party with Lance winning the top prize but reckoned it wasn’t worth it, as he had to keep knocking Barry back all night and Kathy had the bankcards running hot. Or the annual progressive dinner with the buses not turning up an transport having to be inprovised with 65 Sharks players and supporters going from pub to pub in backs of utes and vans. Or the presentation night when we thought we may have lost our major sponsor with his other half outlasting Barry and Rambo to watch the sun come up.
Awards for the 1988 season were
Team
|
Best & Fairest
|
Coaches Award
|
| Mens 1 |
Tony Parsons |
Mark Valenti |
| Mens 2 |
Michael Nicholson |
Calvin Stanley |
| Mens 3 |
Scott Braby |
Wayne Robinson |
| Men O/30 |
Ray Wilson |
Peter Pugh |
| Mens O/30 |
Jeff Coward |
John Brown |
| Ladies 1 |
Leanne Parry |
Amanda Longford |
| Ladies 2 |
Patricia Keable |
Sonia Wilson |
| Ladies 3A |
Jo Mazlin |
Tracy Walsh |
| Ladies 3B |
Kerryn Wiseman |
Kerry Bev |
O/35 Try Scorer: Tony Mitchell and Jeff Coward
Best Club Team: Ladies 1
Best Club Member: Paul Smith
The Year 1989 – Year Sixteen
1989 was to see Sharks sign a three year lease with the Showgrounds Society for the clubhouse allowing the social side of the club to flourish. It was a year where another goal would be achieved with Tony Parsons coaching Division One Men'’ side to take out the Premierships, the first Sharks Men’s side to win a Premierships in the sixteen years the club had existed. With the celebrations that followed it was hoped in some quarters that it would be awhile before it happened again.
Sharks started the ’89 season with nine teams, however, unable to provide a Men’s second division side. Unfortunately, as the season progressed some of the veterans of the club found the going hard and hence the Men’s O/35 team folded during the season with the players remaining being taken up in the O/30 Men’s and 3B Men’s sides. Six teams were to make it to the semi-finals with the first division Men’s taking out the Grand Final honours.
The progressive dinner was once again a success (with the buses turning up this time) and the music went on until 5.00am for the LLHVParty (in honor of Linda getting married and apparently, she has finally lost it). At the presentation night, it was visible that the social side of Sharks was still very much evident with 185 people turning up including members of the original Sharks Men’s side.
New players to join the club in ’89 included Joe Monti, Graham Broughall, Toni-Anne Ridge, Kristen Nugent, Andrew Tighe, Sue Carter, Maria Haffenstein, Margaret Olufson and Sue Hutchins. Several players were chosen to play representative touch both at inter-city and North Queensland levels.
Some other highs and lows of the 1989 season were:
Terry Webster had only been with the club a short time and during that time showed his eagerness to work for the club, when he was involved in a car accident resulting in him becoming paralised.
Awards for the 1989 season were:
Team
|
Best & Fairest
|
Coaches Award
|
| Mens 1 |
Peter Carter/Andrew Tighe |
Andy Cochrane |
| Mens 3A |
Tim Burdell |
P. Beaton |
| Mens 3B |
Mark Smith |
A. Stinger |
| Ladies 1 |
Jenny Gleeson |
Joanne Weir |
| Ladies 2 |
Sue Judge |
Cathy Hall |
| Ladies 3A |
Kerryn Wiseman |
M. Shmitzer |
| Ladies 3B |
Maria Haffenstein |
Sue Hutchins |
The Year 1990 – Year Seventeen
A start of a new decade would see the Club increase in numbers, providing 12 teams for the 1990 season, with the resurrection of the O/35 Men’s and the addition of a Women’s O/27 team.
New players to the Club were plentiful with several being selected for inter-city sides, resulting in the following being selected for North Queensland teams – Peter Carter, Tony Parsons, Graeme Broughall, Steven Parsons, Paul Smith, Barry Pugh, Mal Cherry, Glen Ramsay, Mick Harris, Andrew Tighe, Judy Berry, Sue Cole, Lee-Anne Gibbon , Kristen Nugent, Sharyn Perry, Anne Petith, Toni-Anne Ridge, Tanya Wright with Keith Gibbon coaching the North Queensland U/21 girls team. Of these, at the time of publication, Tanya Wright and Kristen Nugent also gained selection for the Queensland U/21 team.
Ten of the eleven Sharks sides were to make the semi-finals with the Ladies 4 coached by evergreen Gail Smith and the Ladies 2 coached by John Mc Beath making it through to the Grand Final (both teams finished minor premiers). The Ladies Second ‘s were successful in their quest defeating Frogs in a shoot out after extra time, with the Ladies Fourth going down gallantly to Saints 1 – 0.
The social scene continued to flourish with the progressive dinner going ahead on time, with the mode of travel as organised. The ‘S’ night was another successful night with Linda Stringini playing the part of Sheila to perfection. This year for the first time Sharks also catered for the Show and this venture not only proved successful financially but also socially, although Normy and Maria were heard to complain it was not long enough.
The start of a new decade hopefully will see Sharks maintain its strong standing in the Townsville Castle Hill Touch Association both result wise and socially helped along by the Club having its own Clubhouse and a strong major sponsor in Peter Caspani’s Insurance Agencies Pty Ltd.
The Year 1991 – Year Eighteen
The 1991 season saw Sharks start with eleven teams. Two teams were to take out the premierships in their respective divisions being Men’s over 30’s, coached by Paul Smith and Barry Pugh, which included the likes of WTP Grant, Michael Tottnahm, Jooi Monti and Gerald Thompson. The Ladies Thirds were were also successful coached by Mel Cherry, and included Tracey Ford and Sally Miller.
Ladies First coached by Keith Gibbon made the Grand Final for the first time and included Sue Cole, Anne Petith (Douglas), Lee-Anne Gibbon, Natasha Patterson, Sharon Perry and Kristen Nugent.
Paul and Gail Smith were to leave the club during the year and move to Victoria. Paul had been the coach of the Men’s over 30’s and president of both Sharks and TCHTA as well as responsible for the Sharks Clubhouse coming into existence. Gail had been a First division player as well as the inaugural coach of the famous Ladies Fifths side.
1991 wittnessed the First club Lyp Sync held at the Rising Sun Hotel. Who could forget those thighs of Tina Turner (Calvin Stanley), or Lani’s number from the Rock Horror Picture Show. The winner of the first Lyp Sync was to be the Men’s over 30’s.
The Year 1992 – Year Nineteen
What a year, not only did Lisa Macdonald return to Townsville and begin playing with Sharks, but it was the year Robyn Hinder (Campbell) joined the club, Lucky Sharks. It was also the year John McBeath decided one coach is better than two and took task of coaching both ladies Fourth’s sides. In what could only be described as recruiting coup for the club, the first off season signing of another teams player was orchestrated. Contracts were drawn up, and at stages it appeared that for the first time a professional player would be brought into the club with incentive payments. Final after tense negotiations, it was agreed that instead of payment, just keeping her date of birth a club secret would suffice, Pual Morgan was lured across form Redskins.
Sharks were successful in winning the Ladies Second’s coached by Peter Carter which included Jannette Challion, Pamela Duckworth, Sue Judge, Rose Searle, Angela O’Neil and Judy Sellwood and Men’s Third’s coached by Mel Cherry and included John Peters, Ian Kennedy, Peter Searle and Brian Benediti Grand Finals. The Ladies Third’s coached by Leanne Gibbon, and including Lisa Macdonald, Robyn Hinder (Campbell), Sally Miller, Val Cherry, Cathy Hall and Trica Javis, going down in a thriller.
Peter Carter was Club Person of the year.
Ladies Thirds
Leanne, Danna, Marg, Judy, Kerrie, Larni, Trica, Macca, Tracy, Roby, Jodi, Sally, Val
The Year 1993 – Year Twenty
Sharks started the season with eleven teams and saw the Ladies Second’s and Ladies Third’s both make the grand final, but unfortunately both were to finish second. It was interesting to note that Ladies Third’s who were undefeated up until that stage were leading 3-0 at half time and Geoff Watson had to take over the coaching duties. They ended up losing 4-3.
The Lyp Sync was won by Men’s Fourth’s (later to become Men’s Fifth’s)who proved that all you need to win is either Live Animals, Children, or Both.
Natasha Patterson was the Club Person of the year and Tony Parsons was Club President. Sue Cole made the Queensland over 27’s and Natasha Patterson the Queensland under 20’s.
It was the year the Dibben’s were to arrive in the club, Jake Carter and Alan Serrurier also were new additions, and the Ladies had their first end of season trip. They learnt the meaning of “What happened on tour, stays on tour”.
The Year 1994 – Year Twenty One
Only one team was to make the Grand Final. Men’s Fourths (later to become the legendary Men’s Fifths) who had lost their first eleven games but ended up minor premiers. Then under the guidance of Glenn (Dibbo) Dibben, lost the Grand Final in extra time.
It was the year the club was to lose stalwarts in Grace and Andy Cochrane to Mount Isa. Grace’s leaving had nothing to do with Lisa Macdonald reducing her to tears in the previous season. This year also saw John Zabala begin his reign as the money man of the club. Club Person of the year was Glenn Dibben with Lisa Macdonald being the club President.
Ladies Second’s under the guidance of Blakey won the Lyp Sync with Sister Act. Other club functions during the year included the Mississippi Night, and the Guys down the road and around the world in 3 Hours.
The Ladies once again ventured on their second trip to Airlie Beach, with the Men's Fourth’s (or Fifth’s) began their treks to Magnetic Island and Men’s First went to Mackay. Highlights of their tour included:
-Peter Carter and Chris Reeves Team Talk
-Calvin Stanley showing what a winger can do with a bottle of Bourbon
-Steve Macdonald and pick the ugly competition
-Geoff Watson and Kenny Vilalba’s ability to stay on a golf buggy.
The Year 1995 – Year Twenty Two
This was to be a historical year for both Sharks and Townsville Touch with the commencement of Junior touch in Townsville. Sharks club members Julie Watson, Sally Miller and Sharon Stiegler were to be instrumental in the setting up of the junior competition in Townsville aided by members of Frog’s and Redskins. The First Season saw Sharks field eight Junior Teams.
The Seniors were successful in winning Grand Finals in Men’s Fourth’s coached by Norm Young and Men’s Fifth’s coached by WTP Grant. Who would forget Melody Scott in the Sharks outfit on Grand Final day, it’s amazing what a Shark can get up to on dry land.
The ladies went on the annual pilgrimage to Airlie Beach, with Lisa Macdonald falling through a plate glass door.
It was the year the Idiot Club was formed, with Peter (Idiot) Carter being elected President (unopposed) for life, and Dougie being awarded the Idiot of the Year. John Zabala was Club Person of the Year.
Tony Parson’s was selected for the Queensland Men’s over 30’s team.
The Year 1996 – Year Twenty Two
Sharks were to gain the Playpen as a Major Sponsor in conjunction with our long time sponsor Associated Bearings Pty Ltd. The club was also to form it’s own summer competition to be called “Hugh Street Social Touch” as an avenue of allowing people to play in a very social competition, and to recruit new members.
Men’s Fifth’s were the Minor Premiers and Premiers of that division, with Men’s Second’s making it to the Grand Final, but losing after holding a 3-0 half time score.
Peter Carter was the Club Person of the Year, with Sue Cole and Tony Parson’s being awarded Life Membership.
Geoff Watson was awarded the Idiot of the year Award, and Richard (Richo) Mann won the inaugural “Stiff Richard Award”. Ladies Third’s won the Lyp Sync with Count Down.
Darryl Serrurier gained his State badge, and Darryl (Cambo) Campbell won TCHTA Best and Fairest for Men’s Fifth’s.
Sharks Men’s B
Macca, Brolly, Watto, Darryl, Muddy, Joe, Trevor, George, Richo, Carter, Kim, Gerald
The Year 1997 – Year Twenty Four
1997 was to see Six (6) Sharks sides make the Grand Final. Men’s A Coached by Tony Parsons, Women’s A Coached by Geoff Watson and Men’s B Coached by Peter Carter were unsuccessful in their quest. Once again Men’s B were to hold a 3-0 lead only to lose 4-3.
Men’s D Coached by Norm Young, Ladies B Coached by Leanne O’Leary, and Men’s E Coached by WTP Grant were successful.
The Junior’s were to have 15 teams in the competition with in excess of 150 children running around in the Sharks colours.
Ladies D won the Lyp Sync with their version of “Ribbett Dance”. The annual Progressive dinner was held on the weekend of the cyclone, with a change of venues required and the main meal being served under the shop veranda at Pallarenda. Other functions included the Debutante Ball and the Softball Night.
Bones (Jonathon Maccarone) was the receive the “Stiff Richard” award, and Brett (Stubbo) Stubbins was the club person of the year.
Sharks Major Sponsors 1997 Associated Bearings Supplies Pty Ltd and The Playpen
The Year 1998 – Year Twenty Five
13 Senior sides were involved in the 1998 season with Five sides making it to the Grand Final. Men’s B continued their run of 3 in a row when under the guidance of Bunny Tighe they lost yet again, but they did not lead this year. Men’s C who most of the club didn’t realise existed until the finals Coached by Geoff Watson, just failed in their division and the Legendary Lyp Sync Winners Ladies D Coached by Brett Stubbins, who finished fifth in the regular season, played the game of the season to be beaten 1-0 against a team that no-one had been close to during the season.
Men’s D once again Coached by the mercurial Normy took their second successive premiership in a row. The Men’s E took their Fourth premiership in succession, with Mark (Trotty) Trotman, Brett (Stubbo) Stubbins, Darryl (Dasher) Campbell and WTP Grant having played in all premierships, with the return of Dibbo.
Men’s over 35 had been resurrected for the 25 year celebrations ended the year as minor premiers but wilted under the pressure and failed to make the grand final.
The club was to lose Michelle McDowell (Sally Miller’s sister) to the RAAF before the season started and other club personalities Gary (Kiwi) and Tanya McGrath, Marty and Sue McCreadie will also be moving on to the call of duty at the end of this year.
Dirk Holt, Club Captain, created a first for the club by winning the Player of the Year for TCHTA Men’s A. Graeme (Brolly) Broughall won the player of the year for Men’s C.
The social side included the Progressive dinner, the Mingela Race Day, the second Mock Wedding, as well as the Lyp Sync which was won by Ladies D with their tribute to Elvis.
Representative honors for the year were:
Cyclones U/20: Britt Sharkey, Stacey Marr
Cylcones Mixed: Katrina Mancusso
State and National Referee Daryl Serrurier
Once again “Day After” Grand Final celebrations kicked of at the Rugby Club with approximately 40 club members joining in the celebrations finding a new outlook on jewellery, and then venturing on to the Playpen for more of what Sharks of all about “GOOD TIMES, GREAT TOUCH”.
Men's Premiers 1995, 96, 97, 98
Bluey, Damon, Dibbo, Tortty, Quitten, Clarky, Kiwi, Grant, Dasher, Luffy, WTP (cc), Ando, Stubbo, Scotty, Dougy as the Shark
