The all-conquering Bombers of the mid Eighties were feared and respected by their
opponents for their skill and toughness. They combined to be near unbeatable during
the Back-to-Back years of 1984 – 85.
Artist Jamie Cooper has transported us back in time and placed us in the inner sanctum of this wild bunch at one of the most memorable moments in Bomber history. Stories from this era are part of the Club’s folklore, some of which are woven into the scene.
From left to right:
Paul Weston’s nickname was “Wealth” as he was always coming up with get rich schemes. Here he sits in front of his locker full of bank notes and a money jacket.
Leon Baker was a more laid back type who preferred to remain out of the limelight. Rather than join in the week long, premiership “piss up” he was on a plane out of the country to trek in Sri Lanka.
Peter Bradbury and Bomber Thompson cop a spray of champagne from the group’s practical joker Alan Ezard.
Rodger ‘the dodger” Merrett looks mean, even in celebration.
Below on the floor a heavily iced Brian “Princess” Wood (note the tiara), keeps his flowing locks in good order with a quick comb.
Steve “Stan” Carey gives Ezard a dose of his own medicine. The pleasant Sunday afternoons at Windy Hill became famous. Stan was key in the organization of these little gatherings. What are those little chips at his feet all about?
Billy Duckworth loved being in the middle of things both on and off the ground. The Norm Smith Medalist singled handedly strangled the Hawk’s hopes in 84.
Mark Harvey was a tough unit from Keilor. True to form he is already back in the moccasins.
Neil “Nobby” Clarke was the consummate team man. Quiet, dedicated and hard working. It is fitting that he holds the cup happily in both arms.
T.D. the inspirational leader fills the cup with champers.
Darren ‘Daisy’ Williams was reputed to have had an ulcer in his early years, so here he pops a ‘quik-eze’ before joining the boys in a celebratory drink.
Vice Captain and star of the team is Tim Watson who is seen here in his favorite spot, the massage table. It was said that a few privileged players were wrapped in cotton wool and had a “Gold Pass” from Sheedy.
Kevin “Spitfire” Walsh shut down the best in the business on a regular basis and was endowed with both brains and a sense of humor. On one occasion he secretly brought his own remote control to one of Sheedy’s game analysis meetings. Every time Sheeds pressed play “Spitter” pressed fast forward until the Coach, in complete frustration, abandoned the meeting.
Frank Dunnell was not shy in putting his case to Sheeds as to why he should be in the team, but Kevin typically is already analyzing the game on video
What else would Vander being doing post game (or pre game for that matter) but sitting back with his feet up with a beer and a smoke?!!
One night at training Sheeds gave Merv a bake and sent him from the track to re assess his attitude. Instead Merv rearranged the Coach’s locker. First he put his fist through the door before scattering Sheedy’s clothes and contents across the change room
The “budgie” has the final say…25 years later. A small bird sits atop the coach’s locker and has made his feelings clear.
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