Last Sunday the AFLUA hosted its annual luncheon in Brisbane .
MC Peter Howe welcomed everyone in attendance including two representatives from the AFLQ Umpires’ Association – Brett Bradford and Trevor Donoghue.
Special guest for the day was Tom McArthur who is one of only 13 umpires in the Australian Football Hall of Fame. No known field umpire has officiated in more games around Australia than Tom; a record 502 games across all parts of Queensland. Tom umpired from 1959-1985 and his honours include 14 QAFL Grand Finals, 10 Queensland state matches, Queensland Umpire of the Century, AFL Queensland Umpires’ Association Team of the Century, life member of AFL Queensland Umpires’ Association. The majority of Tom’s games were one umpire matches and he spoke fondly of his many enjoyable times during his long career.
Life membership was presented to Tristan Symes by Shaun Apted. Tristan debuted in 2007 and has umpired 127 AFL games including the 2011 NAB Cup Grand Final. He is the current AFLUA State Representative.
Despite not being able to attend due to the christening of his son, many tributes and funny stories were told to celebrate Aaron Deckys’ recent 300th AFL game achievement.
It was great to see such a good number of current and former umpiring personnel including partners in attendance.
Written by: AFLUA Marketing and Communications Coordinator, Peter Kelly
