APRIL 1948

Future Australian ‘Team of the Century’ prop, Duncan Hall was described as the most promising young forward to play in Brisbane for many years, after he made a sensational debut for Valleys against Norths at the Gabba. Then 22 years of age, Hall had moved to Brisbane from Rockhampton. He would make his State and Test debuts later that same year. His display for Valleys, in their 30-2 victory, earned him ‘The Courier-Mail’ two pounds bonus as player of the round. “He possesses speed and intelligence above the average,” wrote The Courier-Mail’s L H Kearney.

A Surf Life Saving selection defeated Queensland Police 24-7 in a representative rugby league match at the Brisbane Exhibition Grounds.

The ‘Surfers’ scored six tries to one, with lock, Ron Lyons grabbing a double. Nev Brough and Jack Ryrie led the bullocking Surfers pack, while Eddie Brosnan (uncle of Broncos ‘super coach’, Wayne Bennett) and Jack Rooney were the best of the police pack.

On the same night, at the Exhibition Grounds, there was a surf club march past (won by Palm Beach); a speed car race, cycling races and a kicking exhibition, with Gorden Pemberthy kicking a goal, bare footed, from 60 yards. They knew how to provide a night of entertainment in those days.

Photo: Duncan Hall (right) with fellow Test forward, Harold ‘Mick’ Crocker.