By Bernie Shackcloth
The Spirit Of Carlton’s inaugural Darwin Luncheon was held at Kantilla’s Room at TIO Stadium on Friday 27 May. While the ‘81 & ‘82 premierships played on the big screen the 40 or so guests were greeted by Carlton greats GS, SJ, AM & VP on arrival.
As MC, Geoff Southby started by telling everyone about the history of SOC and what it had achieved already. Geoff related the story of how Malcolm Fraser became the No 1 ticket holder & assisted the Match Committee. Syd Jackson told us about his personal journey from the WA outback as a child to playing in front of 121,696 people at MCG in 1970. He talked about how the racial abuse from opposition supporters inspired him & his involvement with current indigenous Carlton players. Val Perovic offered an insight into the club when he arrived following the turbulent 1980 off-season. Alex Marcou had everyone in stitches with his fabulous story about visiting The Lodge following the 1981 & 1982 Grand Finals.
Geoff Southby MC’d a Q&A Panel, guests asked questions from the floor which ranged from “who was your toughest opponent?” to “ How do you get Val Perovic to tell a short story?”
The afternoon was finished with Val as Auctioneer, where every item was purchased by the enthusiastic crowd.
Many guest then regrouped afterwards to cheer on the Blues to victory at Wisdom Bar in Mitchell Street.
All those privileged to attend are hoping this will be the first of many SOC visits to the Top End. Go Blues.
CLICK HERE to see pictures from the event.