UPDATE: Only 10 surviving players from Candelo’s legendary 1965 premiership team reunited on Saturday, November 1, 2023, at the Candelo Hotel, sparking heartfelt memories and nostalgia among the former athletes. The gathering celebrated the enduring bonds formed on the rugby league field more than half a century ago.
Among the attendees was 83-year-old halfback Gary Watson, who held the original game-day ball and showcased his skills with a flick pass, proving that muscle memory never fades. The reunion provided a platform for legends like brothers Alan and Paul Slater, Keith Lucas, Colin “Col” Murphy, Harman “H” Kampman, Ron McPaul, Max Holmes, and others to relive their glorious past, particularly the unforgettable final at Bega Showground.
The emotional stories flowed freely, with Watson recounting a controversial decision from the game that still haunts him. “After I put the ball in, I moved away from the scrum a little bit. Harman picked the ball up and ran towards the opposition’s five-eighth. I ran 45 yards to score…and it was disallowed!” he shared. Despite that setback, the team triumphed with a score of 17-9 against Bemboka, thanks to Watson’s successful kicks, including three conversions and one penalty goal.
Former player Gary Moreing, who was named the best and fairest winner, humorously recalled a radio commentator saying, “The only thing that would have stopped him was the water in Tathra.” Meanwhile, John Atkins, the left wing, expressed amazement at how vividly he remembers every detail of the game, despite struggling to recall recent events. “I can’t tell you what happened the day before yesterday, but I remember every pass that led to the first try,” he remarked.
The reunion underscored the significance of community, as Alan Slater reflected on the first and last premiership won by Candelo. After facing dwindling numbers, Candelo merged with Bemboka in 1968, forming the Candelo-Bemboka United RLFC. This union ultimately led to five additional Group-16 premierships between 1969 and 1975.
“This gathering highlights the mateship that was established on the rugby league field,” Slater emphasized. “There’s no need for an invitation. We meet on the first Saturday in November. It is a demonstration of friendship and camaraderie that has been cemented forever.”
As the last remaining players shared laughs and stories over lunch and drinks, the emotional impact of the day was palpable. The reunion not only commemorated their past victories but also reaffirmed the lasting friendships forged through their shared love of the game.
For those involved, the event served as a powerful reminder of the enduring spirit of teamwork and the unbreakable bonds that transcend time. Fans and former teammates alike are encouraged to share their memories and celebrate the legacy of these rugby legends as they continue to inspire future generations.
