Almanac Footy History: Bill Morris – The Good Samaritan

 

 

‘THE GOOD SAMARITAN’

 

BILL MORRIS

 

“Bill was a football freak who comes once in a lifetime… Bill was the most accomplished and perfect ruckman I have seen.”  Jack Dyer.

 

 

INTRODUCTION

 

Fifty years ago, Bill Morris was a household name and one of the most popular and respected footballers to have ever played in the Victorian Football League.  This is the story of a talented but enigmatic personality who achieved much in sport but died in the most tragic circumstance at the young age of 38 years.

 

 

EARLY DAYS OF WILLOW AND LEATHER

 

James William McLaren Morris (aka Bill) was born in Culcairn, a town in the Riverina region of   New South Wales, in 1921. Bill’s father, James McLaren Morris, was an officer with the Bank of New South Wales; and there is evidence that he may have enlisted and served overseas during World War: I.

 

NOTE: Considerable confusion reigns regarding Bill’s correct name. Some texts state ‘McLean’ not McLaren. However, Bill’s father (as shown above) was McLaren; and Bill’s military records (i.e. enlistment at Holsworthy Barracks) confirm that his full name was James William McLaren Morris.

 

 

A recent photograph of the Culcairn Recreation Reserve. The sponsor’s signs give an indication of modern times.  Source: ‘Culcairn-Our Town’ website.

 

It was difficult to unearth a great deal of information about Bill Morris’ early years in Culcairn but ‘The News’ (Adelaide) gave a clue that his father (J.  McLaren Morris) was also an active and prominent sportsman at Culcairn.

 

The extract below also mentions that the Morris family spent time in Tasmania. Further research showed that Bill’s Father was the Manager of the Bank of New South Wales in Devonport up until July, 1933…

 

“Lanky, pale-faced Bill Morris, Richmond’s champion follower and winner of the 1948 Brownlow Medal in Victoria, became an Australian Rules footballer against the wish of the doctor who brought him into the world. Morris, senior, was playing rugby and soccer at Culcairn (N.S.W.) when Bill was born. … the local doctor, a rugby enthusiast, said: “I want you to promise me you will send him to a school where he can learn to play rugby. I wouldn’t like to know he ever played that abomination of a game called Australian rules.” Bill’s family moved a few years later to Tasmania, where Bill first played Australian rules.” Source: ‘The News’ September 11^th1948 Page: 7

 

 

BILL MORRIS MAKES THE NEWS WITH HIS LEG SPIN BOWLING  

 

As mentioned above, the Morris family relocated from Devonport to the Sunshine Branch of the Bank of NSW in Sunshine in July 1933.

 

Bill attended Scotch College in Melbourne and, by all accounts, was an excellent sportsman. His talent as a cricketer was recognized and, from a young age, he was regarded as a promising bowler, Bill made the news with his wily leg spinners against Melbourne Grammar in March 1937….

 

 

  Source: ‘Sunshine Advocate’ March 12^th 1937.

 

While Bill’s father was most supportive of his son’s endeavours on the cricket field, he had his mind firmly set that Bill (Jnr) would become a rugby player…

 

“His father is an avid rugby fan, who at one stage threated to send his son to a school where Australian Rules wasn’t played.” Source:‘100 Years of Australian Football.’

 

 

A STRANGE DISAPPEARANCE AND A CRICKET GRAND FINAL

 

Bill’s cricket career started with Melbourne Cricket Club in 1938; and he won selection in Senior Grade XI cricket for the MCC.  Bill was mentioned in an article regarding the 1939-40 VCA Final between Melbourne and Fitzroy…

 

“There was a public school flavour about the final match between Fitzroy and Melbourne, for Joe Plant, who led Fitzroy, is an old Xaverian, and Keith Rigg, the Melbourne captain, is an old Wesley Collegian….on the Melbourne side …..W. Morris, the slow bowler, is an old Scotch Collegian…Source: ‘The Australasian’ April 20th 1940.

 

According to the Melbourne Cricket Clubs archives, Bill bowled very well to capture 5 wickets for 69 runs from 15 overs; and he followed up with two more wickets in Fitzroy’s second innings. Bill failed to score in the first innings but top-scored in the second innings with 37 runs.

 

This indistinct photograph shows Bill Morris capturing the wicket of Fitzroy batsman, Jack Frederick, in the VCA Grand Final.    Caption: FREDERICK’S WICKET BROKEN by a ball from Morris (Melbourne)-an incident in the final of the District Cricket today. Source: ‘The Herald’ April 6^th 1940. Page: 17

 

However, despite his fine bowling figures; Fitzroy won the pennant that season. Bill played eight matches for MCC in the 1940; but the VCA competition went into recess during the war years. Bill’s fine bowling in the Grand Final wasn’t the only time he made the news in 1940. According to ‘Holmesby and Main’ …

 

“In 1940 he (Bill) made the headlines when he went missing for a week after being hit with a cricket ball and was believed to have suffered amnesia.”

 

It was a mysterious event in the story of Bill’s life and is mentioned in several texts. The extract below, from the ‘Sunshine Advocate’, refers to Bill being seen in Sydney but the truth of the matter was never established (or perhaps ‘kept under wraps’)

 

               

Source: ‘Sunshine Advocate’ January 31^st 1941. Page: 1. The photo on the right shows Bill Morris’ fine bowling action when Bill was playing with Fitzroy South CC in the North Suburban Cricket Association in 1950. In a match against a local team known as Holeproof, a certain ‘Morris’ captured 8 wickets. Source: ‘The Herald’ January 26^th 1950. Page:  13

 

 

BILL SIGNS WITH RICHMOND FC

 

Bill played football at Scotch College and during the war years he came under notice as a ruck man of some standing.

 

According to military records, Bill served in both the Army and the RAAF ( i.e. in 1944)… more details about his service days are provided below…

 

“…first attracted Richmond scouts while playing with the Army in a services game on the Punt Road ground on a Sunday in 1942…Maurie Fleming, quickly spotted Morris’ potential.” Source: ‘Football Greatest 50” by Hobbs and Palmer.

 

         

On the left: One of the earliest indication that Bill Morris was a player of some potential ( ‘Sporting Globe’ June 17^th 1942 Page: 13.). On the right:  The caricature of Richmond’s  steadfast official  Maurie Fleming. Maurie served in key administrative roles at Richmond from 1940-1963. The drawing of Maurie was completed by the famous cartoonist  of that era, Jim Edema.

 

Richmond’s secretary, Maurie Fleming (shown above) moved swiftly to sign Bill but the RFC faced an unforeseen ‘snag’ which caused delay and frustration. Bill was tied to Melbourne FC as he had played one Seconds for the club at an earlier date (as shown in the extract above) but Richmond FC was not deterred and arranged a ‘trade deal’ with Melbourne FC.  Richmond ‘swapped’ Colin Galbraith in return for Bill sometime in June 1942.

 

Col Galbraith, who had previously played for University Blacks, played his first game for Melbourne in 1944 and, within a month, his VFL career was in ‘tatters’ after he sustained a severe knee injury.

 

 Note: In nearly all texts, Colin Galbraith is summarily dismissed with a ‘stroke of a pen’. It is unfair as he deserves greater consideration. Despite being forced into early retirement; it is rarely mentioned that Colin was a talented player and later became a highly respected Medical Officer at Melbourne FC.

 

 

BILL’S METEORIC RISE

 

Bill Morris received his clearance from Melbourne FC; and was selected to play for Richmond in the Round: 8 clash against Fitzroy at the Brunswick Street Oval. Bill was 21 years of age when he was led onto the field, by the legendary Jack Dyer (captain and coach of RFC), on June 27^th 1942.

 

     

The extract on the left is from the ‘Sporting Globe’ and shows that Bill Morris was selected in the back pocket for Richmond in his first VFL game. The player shown on the right is Richmond’s full back that day Jack Crane.  Jack played with three VFL clubs in the period 1936-46 (a total of 122 games). Jack served in World War: II; and is, sadly, another forgotten star in VFL football. Jack’s brother’s Len and Tom also played VFL football. Source: Hoadley’s Series

 

Note: It is interesting to read that Bill’s previous clubs, as shown on his clearance papers, were listed as Old Scotch /Armoured Division.

 

Bill played six games for Richmond in 1942 including the Grand Final against Essendon. Essendon, inspired by a superlative exhibition by Dick Reynolds, defeated the Tigers by 53 points; but Bill played well and was mentioned in the best players for Richmond…

 

“Reynolds, a fast and dashing rover, was always in the play. Lane, kicking 6 goals and 6 behinds, was a fine centre half-forward… Merrett on the wing was easily Richmond’s best player. Steele, Edwards, Guinane, Scott, Bawden, and Morris were best of the others.”  Source:‘The Argus’ September 19^th 1942.

 

     

The Richmond team that played against Essendon in the 1942 Grand Final. The photograph is of Richmond’s full back George Smeaton marking from behind the pack.  Source: ‘The Sporting Globe’ September 19^th 1942. Page: 3  

 

 

WARTIME SERVICE

 

Further evidence of Bill’s participation in the Services Football Competition, as mentioned above, was found in ‘The Kilmore Free Press’ on October 1^st 1942…

 

Full article Text: “The Seymour Branch of the Red Cross should benefit considerably from the ArmyGrand Final Football Premiership that will be played on Saturday, 3rd October on the Seymour football oval. Both the Armoured and Motors teams contain outstanding Victorian and Interstate players, most of whom have been regularly included in Victorian League games this season. The Divisional football team (Motors) narrowly missed winning the Services football premiership, losing in the last four minutes to the powerful R.A.A.F. team. The teams will include such outstanding players as Harry Hickey, Eric Huppatz (Footscray); Bill Morris, Bob Hay (Richmond), Terry Cashion, Bill Harwood, Ron Bywater, Tom Taylor (South Melbourne); Loxton, Hanley, House, Hudson (St. Kilda) Grieve (Carlton); Dan Kearney, Keith Miller…”

 

Bill’s wartime service records indicated that he had enlisted in the Australian Army in April 1943. Bill was later stationed at the Holsworthy Barracks and was a member of 2^nd Australian Field Artillery Training Regiment.

 

 

BILL KICKS A TON FOR SOUTH SYDNEY FC IN 1943.

 

During his term of duty in Sydney, Bill was just one of many VFL footballers who played football in NSW during those years …

 

“…during World War II the number of top grade players who either passed through Sydney or were posted here in the services was incredible…if he were a well-known VFL player  merely select him in the team, sight unseen, simply relying on reputation.  Clearances for the military or servicemen did not appear to apply in the days of strict rules governing the movement of players.” Source: ‘NSW Australian Football History Society.’

 

The long list of VFL players who played football in Sydney during the World War II included…Phonse Kyne, (Collingwood), Bluey Truscott (Melbourne),   Sam Loxton ( St Kilda) ,Ern Henfry  ( Carlton),  Alby Morrison ( Footscray ), Clyde Helmer ( Geelong) and Adrian Dullard ( Melbourne).

 

Bill was the key forward for South Sydney, and in his only season it is recorded that he …

 

“…kicked 102 goals for South Sydney in 1943.” Source:  ‘The Brownlow’ edited by Geoff Slattery: Page 95.

 

It is known that Essendon FC, VFL premiers in 1942 played a match against the Combined Services at Princes Park in September 1942. Bill Morris played in that match; and,  according to ‘The Argus’,  started in the forward pocket (as shown below). The team included such VFL stars as:  Laurie Nash, Jack Mueller, Bob Pratt and Ron Todd.

 

     

Bill Morris was selected in the powerful Combined Services XVIII. Source: ‘The Sporting Globe’ September 23^rd 1942. Page: 15. The photo on the right shows Major General Plant being introduced to the players. Source: ‘The Argus’ September 28^th 1942. Page: 6

 

Bill was discharged from the Army on the 15^th January 1944. However, within two days (17^thJanuary 1944), he had signed-on with the Royal Australian Air Force. Such transfers, to other services during war time, were not uncommon and transpired for a range of reasons.  Bill served at the RAAF School of Technical Training until his discharge in May 1945.

 

Note: One lone text mentions that Bill was stationed at Benalla, at some point in time during these years, but it was difficult to find any further details.

 

 

1944 – A RETURN TO PUNT ROAD

 

Bill Morris did not play in the VFL in 1943; and he re-started his career with Richmond in Round: 1 in 1944. Richmond defeated Melbourne that day and Percy Beames, who had played cricket with Bill at a Melbourne C.C., kicked three goals for Melbourne. Colin Galbraith played one of his four games for Melbourne.

 

As for Bill, he kicked only one goal but had ‘re-booted’ his VFL career. Richmond won easily with Jack Dyer leading the way with four goals. It shouldn’t be overlooked that Richmond had won the flag the previous season and had a particularly strong line-up that day.

 

‘The Australasian’ newspaper carried a photograph of the Richmond team that weekend; and a’ youthful’ looking Bill Morris (23 years of age) is flanked by Jack Scott and ‘Polly’ Perkins

 

Bill Morris can be seen in the back row sixth from the left. Source: ‘Australasian’ May 13^th 1944 Page: 11

 

It was reported that Bill was refused leave (i.e. RAAF duties) to play in the Round: 9 fixture against St Kilda at Punt Road. Kevin Curran (ex-Kulwin FC) **was a ‘last minute’ replacement for Bill that day…

 

“As Bill Morris could not gain leave from the Army* his place at Richmond was filled by Curran, who has just recovered from injuries. Curran played well, and kicked four goals.” Source: ‘The Argus’ July 3^rd 1944.

 

* Note: By July in 1944 Bill was serving with the RAAF. ** Also: The above Kevin Curran is not to be confused with Hawthorn FC‘s Kevin Stanley Curran (from Traralgon FC).

 

   

The photo on the left shows Bill Morris in flight for South Sydney in 1943. Source: ‘The Daily Telegraph’ May 17^th 1943. Page:  12. The right-hand side image: One of the earliest photographs of Bill Morris in action for the Tigers. Bill is seen in a contest against Jack Symons of Fitzroy in the 1944 Semi-final. Source: ‘The Argus’ September 18^th 1944.

 

 

ANOTHER GRAND FINAL

 

In 1944, Bill played 17 games and was selected for his second VFL Grand Final. The match was against Fitzroy at the Junction Oval. The Tigers started well but the Gorillas hit back hard through the agency of Keith Stackpole and Alan ‘Baron’ Ruthven. The Tigers struggled in the hot and oppressive conditions and Fitzroy held on to win by 15 points. It was Fitzroy’s first flag since 1922.

 

Bill Morris can be seen on the extreme left of the above photograph. Jack Dyer (white shorts and knee brace) is in position to mark while Clen Denning (32-Fitzroy) awaits the outcome. Fitzroy’s champion Alan Ruthven can be seen on the right. Source: ‘The Sporting Globe’ September 16^th 1944. Page: 3

 

It is believed that was the last Grand Final in which both team’s coaches (Jack Dyer and Fred Hughson) actually played in the game.

 

In 1944, Dick Harris won the club’s goal kicking award with 66 goals; and Leo Merrett, a dashing wingman from Servicetown, received Richmond’s Best and Fairest award.

 

 

1945   BILL WINS ADMIRERS   AND HIS FIRST TROPHY.  

 

Bill Morris was rapidly emerging as a footballer of rare talent; and there are several texts available that refer his remarkable athleticism and agility. The following extract is taken from a book entitled ‘The Tigers of Old’ by Paul Hogan; it is a detailed but clear pen sketch of Bill’s unique style and unlimited skill…

 

“He (Bill) was great palmer of the ball, with either hand, to his rovers. As a result, he was able to change hands to confuse opponents. He also possessed a great leap and had the ability to spear himself towards the ball at boundary throw ins. Tactically he was very clever who often changed the way he approached rucking contests in order to further confuse opponents…. great stamina and found no problems in rucking all day. A skilled all-rounder, he was a strong mark, long kick with either foot and possessed fine evasive skills.” Page: 152.

 

Jack Dyer leaves no doubt to how he rated Bill Morris as a ruck man for Richmond FC…

 

“Bill was a football freak who comes once in a lifetime…Bill was the most accomplished and perfect ruckman I have seen.” Source: ‘The Jack Dyer Story’

 

 

Above a caricature of Bill Morris from ‘The Argus’ (August 20th 1945); and the swap card of Bill was found in the Vic Thorpe Memorial Shield series.

 

What a vote of confidence; and it was little wonder that Bill won Richmond’s Best and Fairest Trophy in 1945. It would be the first of three such awards that he would receive at RFC.

 

Richmond missed the finals that season. It was the first time, since Jack Dyer had been appointed, that Richmond did not play finals. Little did Jack and the club know it would be ‘long time between drinks’ in that regard.

 

 

This wonderful photograph shows Jack Dyer and key players of Richmond in that era of VFL football. From the left: Don ‘Mopsy’ Fraser, Jack Dyer, Des Rowe, Billy Wilson, Roy Wright, Fred Clarke, Bill Morris and Ray Poulter. Source: This copy was found in the ‘Tigerland Archive’ and the original source could not be found. It was probably taken in early 1951 when Fred Clarke was recruited from Heidelberg FC to Punt Road.

 

 

PEACE AT LAST AND BILL ASSUMES HERO STATUS AT PUNT ROAD

 

1946 saw the world at peace after the horrors of the Second World War. VFL football match attendances increased substantially as the fans flocked back to watch their heroes in action each Saturday. By that juncture, Bill Morris had settled back into civilian life; and his football ‘took off’ in dramatic fashion in the immediate post-war years of VFL football.

 

 

THE GOOD SAMARITAN

 

In reading numerous references for this story, it is apparent that Bill Morris was different. One of his best friends in football was Don ‘Mopsy’ Fraser; and the contrast in styles and attitudes between the two team mates was like ‘chalk and cheese.’

 

Bill was an enigmatic character, a quiet achiever and a thorough gentleman on and off the field. His relaxed approach, in tough situations during certain matches, is mentioned several times in the available literature.

 

Bill was not overtly aggressive and it appears that he did not fit the perceived mould of a rugged and combative VFL footballer. It is noted that Bill would sometimes offer assistance to opposition players who had ‘hit the deck’…

 

“It is known that Dyer had trouble coming to grips with such Morris actions as picking up an opponent after he had knocked him down.” Source: ‘Holmesby and Main’ Page 417.

 

Paul Hogan wrote about Bill’s unique approach to playing contact sport …

 

“…he was very fair player who was well respected…his fair play occasionally irked his tougher team mates , especially when he would assist an opponent who had been a victim of a Dyer shirtfront.” ‘The Tigers of Old’ Page 152

 

Jack Dyer’s anecdote summarizes Bill’s attitude to life in a ‘nutshell’…

 

“He was one of those strange gentlemanly footballers. If he knocked somebody down he would stop and pick them up …One day I (Jack) burst through a pack and skittled an opponent…Bill stopped in his tracks to help to his feet and Dick Harris , as hard as nails, snapped at him: “Let him die. Do you think Dyer’s knocking then down for you to pick up? When they’re down, keep then down. It was water off a duck’s back to Bill. You could not get him to play tough football and I didn’t try; his value was his artistry.” Source: ‘The Jack Dyer Story’ Page:  300. ,

 

While Jack Dyer may have struggled to understand Bill’s motives and actions in giving a helping hand to an opponent; these are the great things that define sport and are never forgotten in life.

 

 

THE SPIRIT OF BILL MORRIS LIVES ON IN 2024

 

‘The Morris spirit’…A notable moment in AFL football as Darcy Parish, of Essendon, calls for medical assistance when his opponent, Tom Liberatore, collapsed during the Round: 5 clash at Marvel Stadium. Source: ‘The Advertiser’ April 13^th 2024.

 

Darcy Parish of Essendon won plaudits for the concern he displayed when the Western Bulldog’s midfielder Tom Liberatore collapsed during the Round: 5 match at Marvel Stadium.

 

There would be little need to explain Darcy’s actions to Bill Morris because Bill’s sporting life was dotted with ‘random acts of kindness. He (i.e. Bill) is a role model for our times; the iconic Ron Barassi would have appreciated Bill’s attitude to sport and life…

 

“One man practising sportsmanship is better than a hundred teaching it.” Source: ‘Wisdom’ Page 107.

 

Perhaps Jack Dyer may not have fully comprehended why Australia’s foremost athlete, John Landy, turned back in a title race to assist a competitor (Ron Clarke) at who had fallen at a critical point, in the final of the 1500m at the National Championships, in 1956. Many sporting doyens believe it ranks as one of the finest moments in Australian sporting history…

 

“It was a spontaneous gesture of sportsmanship and it has never been forgotten.” Source:  www.hyper history. Org

 

While Jack Dyer may have been bewildered, John Landy and Bill Morris understood one of life’s essential secrets.

 

 

BILL MORRIS IS SELECTED TO PLAY IN ADELAIDE –JULY 1946

 

Bill Morris was selected in the Victorian team to play South Australia in Adelaide in July that year. The team included such VFL stars as Dick Reynolds, Jack Howell, Bill Hutchinson, Alan Ruthven, Jack Graham and Bert Deacon

 

It was reported that 42,000 fans watched the game. Victoria 16.21(117) defeated South Australia 11.14(80). Victorian centre man Bill Twomey (Junior) received praise for his fine performance; and others to stand out were:  Bert Deacon, Jack Graham, Max Oppy and Footscray’s steadfast defender of that era, Reg Evenden.

 

 

The Victorian team that played in Adelaide in July 1946. Bill Morris can be seen in the back row, second from the left. Source: ‘The Adelaide News’ July 27^th 1946. Page: 6

 

 

THE DYNAMIC DUO- THE WILSON AND MORRIS SHOW   

 

Bill’s performances for Richmond went from strength to strength. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said about Jack Dyer’s team as the Tigers struggled to remain competitive and stay in touch with the top four. In 1945, the team slumped to seventh on the ladder, narrowly missed a finals berth in 1946; and in 1947 the Tigers were beaten by Fitzroy in the First-Semi Final by 28 points.

 

In 1946, Bill Morris finished equal second with Carlton’s Jack Howell in the Brownlow Medal. Melbourne’s Don Cordner polled 20 votes to narrowly win the award. Jack Dyer won his sixth RFC’s Best and Fairest while Bill came third.

 

 

     

On the left above…A long lost photograph of the two ‘Tiger Bills’ in action Bill Morris and Billy Wilson against Essendon (Source: The sporting Globe August 31^st 1946. Page: 3). Bill Wilson, the Tigers’ champion rover,  is shown on the right (original source is unknown). 

 

One of Richmond’s greatest rovers, Billy Wilson (above) won the Richmond’s Best & Fairest trophy in 1947 and no one could decry Billy’s victory. He had given Richmond sterling service; and since his first game with the Tigers in 1944 and had been was a model of consistency and courage in ‘heavy traffic.’

 

Bill Morris, who was runner-up that season, and Billy Wilson were once described as a ‘devastating duo.’  Billy Wilson, was recruited to the Tigers from Richmond District and, according to ‘Holmesby and Main’, Billy had dreams of becoming a pugilist….

 

“…dreamed of being a boxer but he became a fine, nippy footballer. Wilson was clever and reliable and a fast mover. He teamed well with his ruckmen Morris and Roy Wright…and was a regular choice for Victoria, playing for the state 10 times…” Page: 634.

 

 

1948 BILL MORRIS WINS THE BROWNLOW MEDAL

 

Perceptive football fans knew it would be only a matter of time before Bill Morris won a Brownlow Medal. That may have also been said also about Ted Whitten and Ron Barassi at times; but those two iconic figures of VFL football both failed to win a medal.  However, Bill was a different ‘kettle of fish’ because his style and composure appealed to umpires and his on-field demeanour was exemplary. Bill Morris was a role model for all in sport.

 

 

             

The voting in the 1948 Brownlow Medal. Bill Morris polled 24 votes that year ( Source ‘The Daily News’ September 7^th 1948. Page: 6)  The photograph of Bill and the Brownlow Medal is from the Gimko Trading Cards website.

 

In 1948, Bill Morris won the Brownlow Medal with 24 votes. The Blues’ Ollie Grieve (21) finished in second place while Essendon’s skilful and elusive rover Bill Hutchison came third that season with 17 votes.

 

Bill Morris was the second Tiger to have won the Brownlow; Stan Judkins had won the award in 1930, on countback from Harry Collier (Collingwood) and Footscray’s brilliant midfielder Allan Hopkins…

 

“Morris is the only the second Richmond player to win… “I’m so excited I don’t know whether to laugh or cry …Football is the best game in the world, and this is my greatest moment.” Source: ‘100 Years of Australian Football.’

 

Not everyone was as excited as Bill about his success in the medal count that year. Bill’s girlfriend (at that time) was relaxed about the news. The following extract is taken from Geoff Slattery’s publication, entitled ‘The Brownlow,’ and describes Jill Morris’ reaction to the news that Bill had won the coveted award…

 

 “We weren’t married at the time but we were courting,” Mrs Morris said of the Brownlow win. They (VFL officials) rang Bill at his parents’ house in Powlett Street East Melbourne and then he rang me. When he told me (that he had won the Brownlow) I said: “Oh that’s nice! It didn’t seem like a big deal. Nothing like what it is made of today.”

 

 

Caption Text:  Brownlow Medal Winner in Action.-Bill Morris. Richmond’s Brownlow Medal winner sweeps the ball to his supporting ruck Les Jones after a clever feint with his left hand. The Fitzroy ruckman (arm showing on left of picture) has been bypassed and the Fitzroy rover (front of picture) has been starved. This was typical of his work throughout the season. Source: ‘The Sporting Globe’: September 8^th 1948. Page: 9.

 

 

 1949- JACK DYER STEPS DOWN

 

After 312 VFL games, Jack Dyer retired as a player. His last game was against Geelong in Round: 19 of the 1949 season. It was an emotional day; and one that marked the end of an era (not only at Punt Road but in VFL football).

 

 

     

Sources: Left: ‘The Herald’ August 27^th 1949 Page: 1. The extract on the right is from ‘The   Weekly Times’ August 31^st 1949 Page: 62

 

“Thousands cheered at Richmond football ground today when Jack Dyer, veteran follower and captain, ran on to the ground to play his last game of league football. As Dyer broke a net of yellow and black streamers at the gate from the pavilion, crowds in the grandstand stood up and clapped and there was a roar from the outer ground.” Source: ‘The Daily News’ August 27^th 1949.

 

Jack was nearly 36 years of age when he led the team onto the Punt Road Oval that day. It was a game that Richmond supporters would never forget. Richmond 22.12 (144) defeated Geelong 10.15 (75).

 

As if in a parting gift (perhaps a reminder) to Jack, Bill Morris presented a ‘master class; and dominated the ruck that day and kicked four goals. In his last VFL appearance Jack starred and kicked 6 goals; and a twenty-year-old Tiger forward,  named Ray Poulter,  was Richmond’s best player that day.

 

Ray Poulter won the club’s goal kicking the season with 51 goals. Ray, the son of the former Collingwood strong man Joe Poulter, is, unfortunately another forgotten star of VFL football, and during his 170-game career with the Tigers, he represented Victoria on three occasions in interstate matches.

 

Despite the crushing win over the Cats and the excitement of that memorable day in the history of RFC, the grim reality of the situation was that Richmond had missed playing finals again.

 

 

BILL MORRIS IS APPOINTED THE CAPTAIN OF RICHMOND.

 

The RFC committee appointed Bill Morris as captain of the team for the 1950. Bill seemed the  logical choice as he was a proven performer with more than 100 games experience; and he was a popular identity throughout the club. Don Fraser was selected as vice-captain…

 

 

Caption Text: “Bill Morris takes command… Bill Morris, newly appointed captain of Richmond, took charge of training last night. He impressed with his handling of the players. Suggestion that Morris should take over was made by Jack Dyer, the coach. Dyer was anxious to give Morris the experience, because Morris will have to control players during matches.”  Source ‘The Argus’ April 18^th 1950.

 

 

‘Champion Weds’ Bill Morris married Jill Tolley at the Registrar-General’s Office in Melbourne in April 1950. Fitzroy’s champion Allan Ruthven was the best man. The reception was held at the Occidental Hotel in Collins Street before Bill and Jill left for their honeymoon in Adelaide.  Source: ‘The Weekly Times’ April 5^th 1950. Page: 66

 

As history shows, Bill led the Tigers in 32 matches and in that period the team recorded 20 wins. He would become a football coach in later years; however, much to the chagrin of thousands of Richmond fans, it would be at Box Hill FC in the VFA (see below).

 

 

Essendon’s  champion Dick Reynolds ( left)  and Bill Morris with the Governor of Victoria , Sir Dallas Brooks,  at the toss of the coin in the Round: 5 clash at Punt Round in 1950. Source: ‘The Age’ May 22 1950. Page; 12

 

 

CAPTAIN OF VICTORIA

 

Around that time (i.e. 1950) Bill gained the unfortunate sobriquet of ‘Paleface.’ Most books refer to the rationale behind such a tactless nickname was due to Bill’s pallid complexion.  This is just a guess but perhaps it may have been reinforced by the film ‘Paleface’ which starred Bob Hope and Jane Russell and was released in the same year in which Bill won the Brownlow. Whatever the reason, it was an inane moniker to foist upon any person.

 

It is documented in ‘The Tigers of Old’ that Bill was selected to play Victoria on 15 occasions. The pinnacle of his VFL representative games was in in 1950 when he was named as skipper of the Victorian team at the Carnival in Brisbane. It was a brilliant team and being named as captain was a   further measure of Bill’s standing throughout VFL ranks.

 

The squad that was selected to represent Victoria that year was: J. Howell, A. Hodgson (Carlton); G. Hocking, C.Utting (Collingwood); J. Coleman, W. Hutchinson (Essendon);A. Ruthven, W. Stephens (Fitzroy); C. Sutton, W. Donald (Footscray); R. Davis, F. Flanagan (Geelong); N. Pearson, J. Robison (Hawthorn); M. Woods, L. Dockett (Melbourne) ; E. Jarrard L. Foote (vice-Capt),North Melbourne); W. Morris (Capt.), D. Fraser (Richmond); B. Phillips, P. Bennett (St. Kilda); R. Clegg and W. Williams (South Melbourne).

 

In the match against Western Australia, Bill was one of five Victorian players who suffered injury….

 

 “After the game the Victorians reported five injuries, three of them’ serious. Greatest blow yesterday was the loss of Bill Morris, State captain, and Arthur Hodgson, Carlton wing man. Morris left the ground when he badly injured his wrist, and Hodgson was taken off with a broken nose.” Source’: ‘The Argus’ July 24^th 1950.

 

 

The Victorian team for the ANFC Carnival in 1950. Bill Morris can be seen in the centre of the front row. The North Melbourne FC super- star of that era, Les Foote, is next to Bill. Source: ‘Australian Sports Museum.’

 

Nevertheless, Victoria won by 53 points. John  Coleman, who received stitches to the head during the game, was outstanding with six goals. Don Fraser, Bill’s great friend in football, starred at centre half back and led the Victorian defence in fine fashion despite the  slush and heavy conditions that day. Victoria was unbeaten throughout the week and won the Carnival. Terry Cashion from Tasmania won the ‘Tassie Medal for the best player during the series.

 

       

Bill Morris sails above the pack (Ken Sier Richmond and Bruce Morrison Geelong) against Geelong in Round: 7 at Punt Road in 1950 (Source: ‘The Age’   June 5^th 1950. Page: 12. The photograph on the right was taken when Bill met the NSW cricket captain, Arthur Morris; and Bill is seen teaching Arthur the finer points of billiards. Source: ‘The Herald’ November 21^st 1950. Page: 18.

 

Other vote winners were Don Fraser: (Victoria-6 votes) Bob Hank (South Australia-5 votes) and Bill Hutcheson and Lee McClements (WA) tied in fourth place. Bob Parsons won the goal kicking that week with a total of 14 goals. A highlight of the ANFC Carnival was the long-distance kicking competition; and Carlton’s Jack Howell won with a mighty kick of 66 yards and 2 feet.

 

Note: Terry Cashion had played five games with South Melbourne in 1942.

 

Caption Text:  ‘THE initiative of girls and boys of 5th and 6th grades at Cremorne St. State School, Richmond, won them sporting prizes which were presented to them last night by the captain of the Richmond Football Club, Bill Morris. The children were given 1/- each as “capital.” From that, each raised sums between £2 and £10 for sporting equipment for the school. First prize went to the boy who bought sugar for his 1/-, made it into toffee, sold it, and repeated the process until he had made £10. He won an autographed football. Source” Sun News-Pictorial May 1^st 1951.  Page:  20

 

 

BILL MORRIS PLAYS HIS LAST GAME FOR RICHMOND

 

Bill’s last game for Richmond was against Melbourne on September 1^st in 1951 at Punt Road. Richmond kicked eight goals in the last quarter to swamp the Demons and win comfortably. A young forward, named Peter Schofield (ex-Mentone), in only his sixth VFL match, kicked seven goals for Richmond that day.

 

 

           

The line-up for Bill Morris’ last outing with the Tigers in 1951. (Source: ‘The Sporting Globe’ September 1^st 1951 Page: 11). A photograph of Bill in 1951 (April ‘The Age’); and Roy Wright who would shoulder the burden in Bill‘s absence ( Source: Richmond FC )      

   

The scores were Richmond: 18.16 (124) defeated Melbourne 14.11 (95).

 

• Goals for Richmond: Schofield 7 Poulter 2 Horwood 2 Wright Spring Boland Gleeson Cooke Stokes Morris
• Goals for Melbourne: Clarke 6Cordner 2 McMahen Haywood Daly T. McLean, Woods O’Keefe.
• Best for Richmond: Wright Wilson Schofield Austen Stokes
• Best for Melbourne: Clarke Collins Woods Jackson Cordner

 

It is interesting that Roy Wright was named Richmond’s best player that day. Roy was equal first in the club’s Best and Fairest award that season; and would ‘assume the mantle’ as the club’s number one ruckman in the following season. Roy took some time to emerge as a star at Richmond but…

 

“…like a barrel of Victorian claret, took a long time to mature as a footballer, but when he did the vintage was superb…” Source: ‘100 years of Australian Football’ Page:  199.

 

In Bill’s absence and given the opportunity, Roy Wright developed into one the game’s finest players of that era. Roy won two Brownlow Medals (1952 and 1954). Bill Morris was named in the ‘Sporting Life’ Magazine’s Team of the Year in 1951.He was named first ruck.

 

 

A LETTER OF RESIGNATION

 

Bill was 30 years of age and had played 140 games for RFC (98 goals). 1951 had been, in many ways, a disappointing season for Bill; and perhaps his form, throughout the year, may have been a factor in his decision to retire from VFL football.  According to Brian Hansen, Bill wrote a letter of resignation to the club expressing his reasons to step down from VFL football.  Bill wrote…

 

“… both in health and happiness I am sure this is the opportunity I have been seeking. After ten years in one job, it is hard to make the break and I for one as well as a lot of great players would like to remain in the big time always, only for the fact Old Father Time beckoning you from the boundary I dare say would go on forever.” Source: ‘Tigerland’ Page:  105

 

All footballers know there is probably no more difficult in football than when the time arrives to retire. Ernest Hemingway once said: “that retirement is the ugliest word in the language.”  Most footballers would concur with Ernest on that matter. However, Bill probably made the right decision at the right time in his career. Some footballers play on too long and end their careers with a whimper not a bang!!

 

 

BILL IS CLEARED TO BOX HILL-VFA

 

After ‘much ado’, Bill Morris was cleared to VFA Club, Box Hill in 1952. The process of Bill winning a clearance to BHFC commenced sometime in September 1951; and was still not finalised until the ‘death knell’ for the commencement of 1952 VFA season…

 

“FORMER VFL Brownlow Medal winners Bert Deacon and Bill Morris were last night granted permission to play with Association clubs. Morris, who captained Richmond last year, will play with Box Hill as captain – coach, and Deacon, former Carlton centre half-back, will captain-coach Preston. They were given final permission to play by the V.F.A. permits committee.” Source: ‘The Argus’ April 17^th 1952.

 

 

 

Source: ‘The Age’ December 4^th 1951. Page:14. The photograph of Bill Morris wearing the Box Hill guernsey was found on a website called ‘VFA the Halcyon Days’

 

Taking the responsibility of coaching on such an unsuccessful club as Box Hill was an onerous assignment but over the next three seasons, Box Hill showed on-field improvement; and Bill was able to lift the team from 13^th in 1952 to eighth in 1954. In fact, at one stage in the 1954 season,  it was reported that Box Hill, under Bill’s leadership, was looming as a threat to the top teams…

 

“BOX HILL, “babies” of the V.F.A., trounced Camberwell in such convincing fashion on Saturday that it looms as a big threat to top teams – especially on its home ground. Good marking and a bag of five goals by Box Hill captain-coach Bill Morris was the deciding factor in the game. Camberwell made a gallant attempt to save the game in the third quarter, but Box Hill rallied, and easily held its tiring opponents. …”  Source: ‘The Argus’ April 19^th 1954.

 

This ‘long lost’ wide-shot photograph shows Bill Morris, the coach of Box Hill, addressing his squad at a training session sometime during the 1954 season. Source: ‘The Argus’ July 20^th 1954. Page: 24

 

 

     

Bill Morris at Box Hill-VFA. On the left, Bill Morris is seen marking over Brighton’s Bill Cooper. Box Hill won that game (Source: ‘The Argus’ July 20^th 1954. Page:  24). The photo on the right was part of an article by Jim Blake regarding VFA stars in that era. Source: ‘The Sporting Globe’ April 2^nd 1952. Page: 13 

 

Bill appeared to play with his usual flair and spirit and, according to a couple of reliable sources, he won three BHFC Best & Fairest trophies in 1952-53-54. In his first year of VFA football, Bill finished third in the Liston Trophy.   One of the VFA’s finest players Frank Johnson, from Port Melbourne, won the award that season.

 

 

THE END OF AN AMAZING CAREER

 

At the end of the 1954 season, Bill Morris stepped down at the coach of Box Hill FC and his decision was reported in ‘The Argus’ on October 25^th 1954…

 

“Thirty-three-year-old Bill Morris, captain-coach of Box Hill for the last three seasons, has retired from Association football.  He advised Box Hill officials at the weekend he was  retiring because of business reasons. Box Hill will advertise throughout Australia for a new coach, and hope to make an appointment by the annual meeting on December 1^st”

 

After deliberations, the Box Hill FC Committee appointed Harvey Dunn (Jnr) to coach the club in 1955.Harvey had played with Carlton in the early 1950’s and his father (Harvey snr) had topped the goal kicking at Carlton FC in 1925. Harvey (Jnr) created VFL history as, according to well-known football historian Tony De Bolfo…

 

“Harvey Laurence Dunn will be forever remembered in competition history as the first League footballer acquired under the father/son rule.” Source: ‘Blueseum’ website 2007.

 

 

Bill Morris’ retirement from football received major coverage in ‘The Sporting Globe’ on October 27^th1954. Page: 2 The text included the following:   …” Perhaps the greatest ruckman among many stars since the last war…” 

 

In his three seasons at Box Hill FC, Bill Morris had played 58 games and kicked 92 goals. It is also recorded that Bill won the club’s goal kicking in 1954 with 57 goals.

 

In 2000 Box Hill, announced its ‘Greatest Ever Team’ and Bill Morris was selected as the first ruck and also the team’s vice captain. Former Footscray midfielder, Alex Gardiner was named as the skipper and Eric Moore (a 1969 Richmond premiership player) was listed as the coach.

 

 

BILL BECOMES A PANELIST ON THE CHANNEL 7 FOOTY SHOW

 

The advent of television had a significant impact on football. Television broadcasts of VFL football commenced in April 1957. Channels 2, 7 and 9 were given the broadcast rights to televise the last quarter of VFL matches each Saturday afternoon.  The broadcast usually started at 4.10pm and continued until 5.15pm.

 

There was logic to the VFL decision for limited broadcasting as it was believed that suburban and country football leagues would be financially ruined if the entire (i.e. four quarters) matches were relayed. Imagine the attraction of viewing the direct telecast of a VFL game (in the comfort of your lounge room in front of raging log fire) compared to attending a home game at Mt Erica or Ballarat in mid-winter.

 

Note: Erica FC (aka the Magpies) was formed in 1919 and disbanded in 1958.

 

In those days, it was not unusual to see cars streaming out of local grounds in a hurry ( i.e. to get home)  and allow the  VFL fans to watch the last quarter of some ‘block buster’  which was relayed from the city.

 

With the broadcasts came football panels or match review programs which had been common on the metropolitan radio stations up until 1957.

 

Bill Morris was part of Channel: 7’s ‘Football Inquest in 1960 .and the other panelists included Bill Twomey and Reg Hickey. Source: ‘The Age’ Radio / TV Supplement’ April 28^th 1960. Page: 7

 

In 1960, Bill Morris was a panel member of ‘Football Inquest’ which aired on Channel 7 on Saturday evenings 7.00pm during the football season. The chairman of the panel was Michael Williamson. Along with Bill, there were other former VFL champions such as Reg Hickey (Geelong), Jack Hale (Carlton/Hawthorn), Bill Twomey (Collingwood) and St Kilda’s  lion -hearted ruckman, Brian Gleeson,  (who had won the Brownlow Medal in 1957).

 

‘Football Inquest’ was an extremely popular program; and the awarding of votes, to the best players each week, was a highlight of the 30 minutes show. In those days, most football fans would rather miss a meal rather than ‘Football Inquest.’

 

 

THE TRAGIC DEATH OF BILL MORRIS

 

Bill Morris died in May 1960. An inquest was conducted into his death and the City Coroner (Mr Pascoe) recorded the finding that Bill had taken his own life.

 

Bill Morris was only 38 years when his life came to such a sudden and sad end; and much was reported about his death in the newspapers of the day. There is no need to publish extracts in a story of this nature however, as readers can imagine, there was much conjecture about Bill’s untimely death.

 

According to Southern Metropolitan Cemeteries Trust Deceased Search Facility, the funeral service for Bill Morris was conducted at the Springvale Botanical Cemetery on the 31^st May 1960.

 

     

Bill Morris 1921-1960. Source (s): Richmond Football Club and Boyles Football Photos.

 

 

FURTHER RECOGNITION AND HONOURS

 

Bill was a highly decorated footballer. In addition to his three RFC Best & Fairest Trophies (now known at the Jack Dyer Medal) and the 1948 Brownlow  Medal ; in 1951  Bill was also made a Life Member  of the RFC.

 

 

Bill Morris was selected in Richmond’s Team of the Century (Source: Select Media)

 

Bill was selected in the ‘Sporting Life’ Team of the Year (s) in 1948-49-50 -51. It was a highly respected magazine at the time; and is said to have   ‘pioneered the concept of the All-Australian team.’

 

As mentioned above, he was selected in the ‘Box Hill Best Ever Team’ (2000) and in later years, Bill was selected in Richmond’s Team of the Century. The only players selected from Bill’s era in the strong line up were Jack Dyer, Roy Wright and Bill. Des Rowe was named on the interchange bench. Jack was Captain of the team; and the Coach was Tom Hafey who had played from 1953-58 and then coached the Tigers from 1967-76.

 

In 2002, Bill Morris was inducted into the Richmond Football Club Hall of Fame and is also a member of the AFL Hall of Fame.

 

 

 A CLOSING WORD ABOUT BILL MORRIS

 

It is time to bring this story about Bill Morris to a close; and perhaps a good note on which to finish is found in an article published in ‘The Argus’ nearly fifty years ago. It is an interview with Jack MacMurray (Jnr).

 

Jack was a leading VFL umpire from 1941-55.  In his interview with Hugh Buggy, Jack estimated that he had seen some 4000 players in action during in his 216 VFL game career. Jack spoke about those VFL players who had impressed him over the years. These are Jack’s thoughts regarding Bill Morris…

 

“…another great Richmond ruckman of different type, tall, slimly-built Bill Morris. His passing and his faultless palming of the ball to his rovers were simply terrific; Bill was one of the fairest players who ever took the field. I hardly ever saw him bump any opponent, but his ruck work had a touch of genius.”  May 5^th 1956.

 

 

2006-PETER BELL SPEAKS OUT ON A CRUCIAL ISSUE

 

Former Fremantle and North Melbourne midfielder Peter Bell played 286 AFL games (1995-2008) and kicked 250 goals. Among his many honours is that he was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2015. Source: NMFC website

 

Many football personalities are now quite open about the battles they faced in dealing depression while playing or in retirement in later years.   AFL administrators, club medical officers and players are much more aware of the mental and physical demands placed upon players in the cauldron of competitive football. AFL Players’ Association President, Peter Bell, addressed the issue in 2006…

 

 “Depression is officially a serious problem in AFL football, with close to 10 per cent of players admitting they have sought help. AFL Players’ Association president Peter Bell has branded depression a ‘huge issue’ that runs through all levels of the game. Of 521 players questioned in the Herald Sun-AFLPA survey, 44 or 8.4 per cent have put their hands up for assistance. Bell, concerned about the level of pressure on players, believes the real figure would be even higher….” Source: AFLPA 2006.

 

The-then AFL Chief Executive, Andrew Demetriou, also added his voice to the calls for the AFL to offer greater assistance to players suffering from depression… (Source: ‘The Herald Sun’ June 2006)

 

“…he was surprised so many players ticked the box and admitted they     had sought help… It further reinforces why we need organisations like the AFLPA to put programs in place to   provide support…It’s a serious issue in the community and our players are not immune from what happens at community level.”

 

In the era in which Bill Morris played football, the subject of depression was rarely broached in conversation; and little was ever aired about it causes and ways and means (i.e. therapies)  to assist sufferers.  Thank goodness things have changed regarding this aspect of football and sport in general; and Peter Bell deserves eternal credit for bringing this issue of player welfare into the open.

 

 

SOURCES & ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

 

• Thanks to Trevor Ruddell, Deputy Librarian at the MCC, for his assistance with aspects of Bill Morris’ cricket career at Melbourne CC.
• Photographs as noted above.
• ‘Tigers Of Old’ by Peter Hogan.
• ‘Harder than Football’ by Barb Cullen.
• NLA-Various Newspaper extracts as acknowledged above.
• ‘The Clubs’ Viking-Penguin Books (1998).
• ‘100 Years of Australian Football’ Viking-Penguin Books (1996).
• ‘The Encyclopaedia of AFL Footballers’ by Holmesby & Main (2011).
• ‘Every Game Ever Played’ Compiled by Steve Rogers (1993).
• Boyles Football Photos website.
• ‘The Brownlow’ by Geoff Slattery.
• South Melbourne/ Sydney Swans FC website.
• VFA history: Sandringham and Brighton.
• ‘Tigerland Archive’ by Rhett Bartlett and Trevor Ruddell
• AFL statistics, archives and various AFL websites.

 

 

Written for ‘Footy Almanac’ by Roger Spaull in July 2024.

 

 

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