OUR HISTORY - YEAR BY YEAR

1954 - 1959

1955

E Section

President: John Weatherson
Coach: Peter Birrell

Team Leaders
Captain: Peter Birrell
Vice-captain: John Weatherson

Jock Herbert retired as coach and Alfred Bright retired as President. In the early years, the President of the OTGAFC became the Club’s president also, and in 1955 it was John Weatherson. Peter Birrell became captain coach for the Club’s second season, with John Weatherson his vice-captain. The involvement of Peter Birrell started another long association with a Trinity family with his brother Jim serving as honorary medical officer for several years and Peter’s sons, Andrew and David Birrell, playing with the Club in the 70’s and 80’s. Andrew was also Secretary from 1982-85. David captained the Firsts in 1982, and his son Nick also played.

Brian Manuel’s father was reported to have assisted during the year with “valuable instructions”.

Old Trinity started 1955 “on a roll” winning eight out of the first ten games. However, after losing four of the next seven, Trinity had to win the last match of the season to make the final four. By defeating National Bank 8-9-57 to 6-9-45, Trinity secured third position, and its first finals appearance in only its second year. The final four used the old system of 1 v 4 and 2 v 3, with both semi-finals being knock-out games. Trinity played the second placed side De La Salle, who were too good for us, and went on to win the premiership.
De La Salle:     0.4    5.15    8.23    13.23.101
Old Trinity:      4.6    5.7      8.10       9.10.64 

Midway through the season Graham McColl created an early record by kicking 8 goals from the half forward flank; a feat that in the history of the Club may not have been repeated. 

Other teams playing in E Section in that season included Old Geelong Grammarians, University, Melbournian Blues and Old Carey.

At the end of the second season, the Club had £67/13/0 in the bank and splashed out with trophies for the best and fairest player, the Runner-up and the most consistent player. The B&F winner’s trophy was an ironing board, donated and presented by Roy Smead. The ironing board, won by Peter Birrell was much treasured by him and his new wife Barbara. Trophy night was organised and Roy Smead was to be asked to present the trophies. The supper arrangements were to be “left to the ladies’ committee”. 

Award winners 1955
Best & fairest: Peter Birrell 
Runner-up: Geoff Brown
Most consistent: Bruce Heard