Bill West
“If we run out, we can print more” was the assurance given at the high-profile launch of an outstanding book covering the 150-year history of the Lancefield Football Club.
Co-compiler Denis Graham stated this when addressing around 200 people in the Laurie Green Pavilion on Saturday, following on from The Age sports editor Chloe Saltau launching the hard-bound 248-page colour publication.
The book comprises 16 chapters – one devoted to the Lancefield-Romsey rivalry. Overall, a compelling read.
It is packed full of old photographs and stories some never seen or heard before – depicting important times in the club’s history and many of the people involved, and has already received glowing reviews from various quarters.
It seems certain another print run will have to be ordered very soon such is the interest generated.
Denis Graham, John ‘Shark’ Chisholm and Shirley Kishere, all with a very, very long association with Lancefield and its football club spent thousands of hours processing information for this book.
Romsey and Lancefield Districts Historical Society Inc is jointly involved, with well-credentialled historian Fay Woodhouse pleased to be the book’s editor.
Chloe Saltau has a connection with Lancefield through the family of former club president Ian Brown.
Club stalwart Russell Pattinson compered the launch, and Ms Saltau provided an insight into the importance people have played in sporting clubs, specially in country towns, and vice versa.
She said it is obvious the new book has been “put together lovingly”, and that local papers are also part of the book.
“To have women involved generally makes a tremendous difference,” she said (The book includes coverage and photos of Lancefield netballers going back around 60 years).
The extraordinary life of Ike Johnston as a footballer and war hero was referred to; as was the long rivalry between Lancefield and Romsey, and a stirring pre-final exhortation from the late Charlie Fricker in 1952.
Ms Saltau congratulated all involved with the book, and Mr Graham then spoke in detail on behalf of the three co-compilers.
He explained how the ‘Rainey Collection’ from former president Noel Rainey’s woolshed had been a catalyst; the Choate family had provided plenty of valuable material, and former player Peter Keenan’s photos of Romsey v Lancefield disputations from the sixties were welcomed.
He praised the involvement of Peter Brooks, designer Jenny Bullock and illustrator Hayley Leahy; Fay Woodhouse had been a fine mentor and guide.
“Thanks to all gathered in this room … your contribution is gold,” Mr Graham said.
The members of the steering committee behind the book were also thanked, as were various media.
Fay Woodhouse spoke about her role, stating some marvellous stories had been revealed.
“It’s not only a history of the football club, it’s all about the people of Lancefield,” she said referring to generations of Shannons, Grahams and Musteys and many others.
“I believe a great result has been achieved.”
Support for the club from the Bendigo Bank was acknowledged during the day.
