UPDATE: Only ten legendary players from Candelo’s iconic 1965 footy team reunited at the Candelo Hotel on November 1, 2023, sparking nostalgia and camaraderie as they relived their premiership-winning moments. This reunion, a poignant reminder of their remarkable journey, comes more than half a century after they clinched victory in a thrilling match against Bemboka.
The gathering brought together 83-year-old halfback Watson, who held the very game-day ball he kicked to secure the championship. Displaying his enduring skill, he executed a nostalgic flick pass, much to the delight of his fellow players. The surviving legends, including brothers Alan and Paul Slater, Keith Lucas, Colin “Col” Murphy, and Gary Moreing, shared laughter and stories over lunch, illuminating the bonds formed on the field decades ago.
“It’s a demonstration of friendship and camaraderie that has been cemented forever,” said Alan Slater, underlining the event’s significance. The players recounted thrilling highlights from the Bega Showground final, with Watson vividly recalling a controversial referee decision that still irks him. “I ran 45 yards to score…and it was disallowed!” he exclaimed, detailing how despite the setback, the team triumphed with a final score of 17-9.
The first points for Candelo were scored by Gary Moreing, who also remembered a radio commentator proclaiming, “The only thing that would have stopped him was the water in Tathra.” The emotional resonance of remembering such details, even after so many years, highlights the significance of their shared history.
The day was not just a celebration of past glories but a testament to the lasting friendships forged during their competitive days. As they reminisced, John Atkins shared his disbelief at how clearly he recalled every play leading to their first try, despite struggling to remember more recent events. “I can’t tell you what happened the day before yesterday,” he laughed, “but I can tell you exactly how we scored!”
Despite the passage of time, the players reaffirmed their bond, meeting annually on the first Saturday of November. This year’s reunion was particularly poignant, as the group reflects on their legacy and the evolution of the sport. In 1968, Candelo amalgamated with Bemboka due to dwindling numbers, transforming into the Candelo-Bemboka United RLFC, which would go on to win five Group-16 premierships from 1969 to 1975.
As they shared their stories, it became clear that the reunion was more than just a nostalgic gathering; it was a celebration of their enduring friendships and the rich history of rugby league in their community. “There’s no need for an invitation. We meet because we want to,” Slater emphasized, reinforcing the importance of these gatherings in their lives.
This reunion not only honors their past but also captures the essence of what sports can mean to individuals and communities—a legacy built on teamwork, respect, and lifelong friendships. As these ten legends continue to share their stories, they remind us all of the power of sport to create lasting bonds and cherished memories.
