The AFLUA’s oldest member Walter Charles Hopkins OAM celebrated his 101st birthday amongst family and friends on Thursday 15th May 2025.
Wally joined the VFL list back in 1948 after a recommendation from the Footscray and District Umpire’s Association. Rather than progress to the Reserve Grade, Wally jumped that List and was appointed straight onto the Senior List.
Wally umpired 2 VFL seconds, 306 VCFL, 30 Finals, 7 VCFL Grand Finals, 9 Metro F.L. and 2 appointments in Tasmania. A total of 356 appointments. Remember, in those days, on most occasions you would leave on a train Thursday night and return Sunday evening.
After 10 years on our list Wally was awarded Life Membership of the VFLUA in 1958, retiring in 1963. Whilst on the list for 16 years Wally did extensive work with our Social Committee, which saw him awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award in 1958.
Wally with family celebrating is 101st birthday.
In 1940 Wally attended an interview at Polson Motor Parts in Carlton, a long way from Footscray in those days. “I was accepted as an employee and commenced on 8th February 1940”. To his delight, he saw the company move their factory to Maidstone, this brought a smile to his face as it meant less travelling time to and from work on his bike. Wally started on 15/- ($1.50) per week as a 1st year apprentice, with 2/6 (25 cents) for the use of his bike for messages.
Not long after he started and with WW2 in progress, this necessitated many changes in the industry. Polson was converted from manufacturing Motor Parts to Aircraft Parts under Government Supervision. This meant it became a “Protected Industry” which meant employees could not transfer or leave, could not join up into any of the armed services unless approved.
In 1965 the company was taken over by Repco and was re-named Repco Engine Parts Maidstone. Wally had worked his way up in the company finishing up as Warehouse Manager responsible for stock control throughout Australia, retiring after 44 years in the same Industry.
Wally was very active in his local community and received his Order of Australia for community service in 1998. Other awards received by Wally include – the Maribyrnong Citizen of the year, 7 Life Memberships, 7 Letters of Appreciation and 2 Citizens Awards.
Wally has also chalked up 75 years with the First Footscray Scout Troop, receiving the highest award in Australian Scouting – a ‘Silver Kangaroo’ in 1998.
After living in the same house for most of his life in Footscray, Wally moved to Arcare Aged Care Facility in Maribyrnong last year where he is now a favourite amongst the staff and fellow residents.
Happy birthday Wally!
Article by Peter Kelly