Fitzroy memorabilia exhibit @ Etihad

[Hollow Knight]

Greetings Royboys & Roygals.

Thought you may be interested in this...

Cheers
TBD

 

[Last of the Roys]

Thanks TBD. It should be a great night even if it is on a Wednesday.

Many great past Fitzroy players seem to be coming. And only $10 entry, and free for kids (if you want dinner beforehand it will cost you about $15 per person).

The details are now on the Lions website. You need to book your spot if you want to come, so get in quick.

http://www.lions.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/5085/newsid/125799/default.aspx

Fitzroy Immortalised

The Brisbane Lions Historical Society - in conjunction with the Brisbane Lions and Etihad Stadium - are set to reveal a new permanent home for the display of historic Fitzroy memorabilia in Melbourne.

All Victorian-based Lions fans will be treated to a trip down memory lane on the night of Wednesday 23 November 2011 when the Club’s new showcase is officially opened to the public.

Etihad Stadium will house the display which features a vast collection of Fitzroy artefacts - including seven VFL Premiership Cups (1898, 1899, 1904, 1905, 1916 and 1922) - while also recognising the Brisbane Bears’ contribution to our Club’s unique history.

The Club’s historic evolution culminates in the acknowledgement of the merged Brisbane Lions’ modern achievement of winning a hat-trick of AFL Premierships.

Historical Society Custodian Arthur Wilson has been at the forefront of this project which has been proudly supported by the Brisbane Lions AFC, Historical Society, Fitzroy-Brisbane Lions Past Players & Officials Association and Etihad Stadium.

It will feature the most comprehensive collection of Fitzroy photos, trophies and membership materials - some of which are more than 100 years old - giving our Club’s rich history a more permanent, prominent and visible presence in Victoria.

The grand opening of the new exhibition will be headlined by a number of special guests - including former Fitzroy greats Kevin Murray, Garry Wilson, Bernie Quinlan, John Murphy, Norm Brown, Bill Stephen and George Coates - who will be in attendance on the night.

The Club is also extending the invitation to all Victorian-based Lions fans to be part of this exclusive unveiling at Etihad Stadium on Wednesday 23 November 2011.

Attendance at this historic event costs just $10 per adult, while children aged 15 or under will be admitted for FREE. All proceeds from the night will go directly back into the ongoing maintenance and enhancement of the display, so your support is critical

See more of the details, including how to book, via the above link.

 

[FitzroyRamone]

How ironic that this is being held at Towelhead Stadium, operated by a certain Ian Collins, a **** that was part of the deal at Princes Park that placed another nail in our coffin...in saying that, I'll be going along to have a look!

 

[Roylion]

I would hope the directors of the Fitzroy Football Club get an invite, seeing that it is, after all, their own club's memorabilia that is on display.

 

[Silent Alarm]

So this will be open from the 23rd onward? My girlfriend and will be going to Melbourne on the 24th or so. Hopefully this is still on.

 

[Stocka]

I would hope the directors of the Fitzroy Football Club get an invite, seeing that it is, after all, their own club's memorabilia that is on display.

The event has an open invitation to all "Victorian-based Lions fans", does it not?

Quote:
"The Club is also extending the invitation to all Victorian-based Lions fans to be part of this exclusive unveiling at Etihad Stadium on Wednesday 23 November 2011.

Attendance at this historic event costs just $10 per adult, while children aged 15 or under will be admitted for FREE. All proceeds from the night will go directly back into the ongoing maintenance and enhancement of the display, so your support is critical."

 

[Roylion]

The event has an open invitation to all "Victorian-based Lions fans", does it not?

Not all the Fitzroy directors support the Brisbane Lions in the AFL, just like quite a few Fitzroy supporters and members (both current and former) are not supporters of the Brisbane Lions. For example Mobbenfuhrer.

You don't have to be a supporter of the Brisbane Lions to still be a member and a director of the Fitzroy Football Club. And it is, after all, Fitzroy Football Club's history that is on display at Etihad.

Hopefully the Lions specifically invited the directors of the Fitzroy Football Club (as the current elected representatives of the members and shareholders of the Fitzroy Football Club) to be present.

 

[Stocka]

Although the invitation is extended to "Victorian-based Lions fans", given that the invitation has been made publicly via the internet, I would conclude that it doesn't imply that people who aren't supporters of the Brisbane Lions aren't welcome to attend. After all, I would expect that various media representatives would attend to cover the event, who may not in fact be Lions fans.

Personally, I think that any Lions supporters and Fitzroy supporters who don't support the Lions who have the opportunity to attend (keeping in mind travel and work commitments), should make the event a priority occasion!

It will be fantastic to see the achievements of Fitzroy recognised and given a permanent, public and prominent location in Melbourne. Regardless of whether or not one supports the Brisbane Lions or not, I think that all "political" bugbears should be put aside for the occasion, so that Fitzroy, and the people associated with the club over its long history, can receive due (and perhaps overdue!) recognition.

 

[Roylion]

Regardless of whether or not one supports the Brisbane Lions or not, I think that all "political" bugbears should be put aside for the occasion, so that Fitzroy, and the people associated with the club over its long history, can receive due (and perhaps overdue!) recognition.

I know certain people have been specifically invited to this event, separate to the general invitation issued by the Lions to their supporters and members. As the elected representatives of the Fitzroy Football Club, (the Lions' merger partner) I would hope the current directors of Fitzroy have received such an invite.

 

[Stocka]

Who are the people who have been specifically invited? Do you mean the past Fitzroy players who were mentioned in the article?

It would be a nice gesture if the current FFC directors were specifically invited, but personally, I don't see it as being any different than whether or not the Brisbane Lions also specifically invite life-long supporters, past-players or officials of Fitzroy. At the end of the day, it appears that the Brisbane Lions are aiming to make it an inclusive event, rather than one which might be considered exclusive or cost prohibitive towards the average supporter.

As I said before, hopefully as many people as possible can attend the opening and will also visit the exhibition on a regular basis in the future, regardless of whether or not they feel that they should have received a personal invitation.

 

[Soul1986]

Agreed. Lets hope as many people as possible can attend what will be a great 'Fitzroy themed' evening. Whether they be lions fans, Fitzroy fans or anyone else for that matter.

Note - Fitzroy have the evening advertised on there website and also advise they were one of the stakeholders involved in its formation. I would anticipate Fitzroy management etc would be invited.

Personally, if some Fitzroy people dont want to attend for whatever reason, well frankly who cares. Its there decision. The people that want to see the Fitzroy collection will be there.......including John Murphy.

 

[Roylion]

Who are the people who have been specifically invited? Do you mean the past Fitzroy players who were mentioned in the article?

I have a copy of the specific invitation, so I know various stakeholders, whether they be individuals or groups have been specifically invited.

It would be a nice gesture if the current FFC directors were specifically invited,

Yes it would. And that's all I'm saying/suggesting. They should be included.

but personally, I don't see it as being any different than whether or not the Brisbane Lions also specifically invite life-long supporters, past-players or officials of Fitzroy.

I'm not saying that it is. All I'm saying is that I hope the directors of Fitzroy also received a specific invite, along with other stakeholders.

 

[Roylion]

Note - Fitzroy have the evening advertised on there website and also advise they were one of the stakeholders involved in its formation. I would anticipate Fitzroy management etc would be invited.

It made me wonder, considering that the involvement and support of the Fitzroy Football Club was not mentioned in the Lions' own article on their website. I am assured they were involved though, and as you say, Fitzroy's website article also seems to confirm this.

 

[Stocka]

So maybe a specific invitation should have been mailed out to everyone, then?

Then again, with the advantages of the internet, perhaps it's just as easy to use e-mail, social media and the club's website to promote the event to those who weren't involved in setting it up in the first place.

 

[Roylion]

So maybe a specific invitation should have been mailed out to everyone, then?

Maybe it should have been. It wasn't though.

Then again, with the advantages of the internet, perhaps it's just as easy to use e-mail, social media and the club's website to promote the event to those who weren't involved in setting it up in the first place.

Clearly it was promoted to the general public in that manner. Specific invites were sent in the form of a hard copy letter though.

 

[Stocka]

Oh well. Some people will never be happy, will they, RL?

Hopefully there are no wet blankets on the night who'll spoil the occasion by making their own particular leanings more of a concern than the celebration of what Fitzroy is all about.

Personally, I won't be thinking about the issue at all come the opening night as I will be too busy celebrating what Fitzroy really is all about at the event. It's something that all Fitzroy supporters should look forward to with eagerness.

 

[Roylion]

Oh well. Some people will never be happy, will they, RL?

I think most Roy supporters will be happy to see Fitzroy commemorated.

Hopefully there are no wet blankets on the night who'll spoil the occasion by making their own particular leanings more of a concern than the celebration of what Fitzroy is all about.

I would doubt that would happen.

Personally, I won't be thinking about the issue at all come the opening night

There isn't really an issue. More of a comment that I'd hoped the Fitzroy Football Club would have have received a specific invite, seeing I know that specific invites were issued.

It's something that all Fitzroy supporters should look forward to with eagerness.

I'll be looking forward to it. I know the Past Players Association for one is rapt at the prospect.

 

[Soul1986]

Maybe it should have been. It wasn't though.



Clearly it was promoted to the general public in that manner. Specific invites were sent in the form of a hard copy letter though.

Yep - I would anticiate special invites would be sent to people the club would consider as key stakeholders (aside from fans) i.e. Brisbane Lions coterie groups in Melbourne, Fitzroy Football Club management, ex Fitzroy players etc. But, this would be normal practice, which I am sure all other AFL clubs would also follow.

Given the unique nature of the Brisbane Lions and events of last year, the lions are probably placing a special focus on this event, to re-engage with people - in particular well known ex Fitzroy players and other identities.

It will hopefully assist in bringing back a large number of Fitzroy/lions fans back to the fold....

 

[Last of the Roys]

Good to see the night promoted on the Fitzroy website as well.

Roylion - I agree that FFC directors should have been invited and FFC should have been specifically acknowledged in the original Lions article. Maybe you could email Jeremy Guard (via melbourne@lions.com.au unless you know his personal email) about it. I would be surprised if it wasn't just an oversight.

A good relationship with FFC is absolutely key for the Lions to prosper in Melbourne the long-term. In a way, these are only little things, but getting into the habit of doing these little things could take the Lions a long way.


Anyway it should be great night. A pity the National Sports Museum at the MCG are hanging on to the 1944 Cup, it would have been nice to have all 8 there together. Maybe I should go an relieve them of it for the night!

Still it is absolutely wonderful from everyone involved that this has come to fruition.

 

[AndrewD]

If there's any chance to snap a picture or three on the night it would be greatly appreciated by those of us who aren't able to attend.

 

[Last of the Roys]

Article from the Sunday Age on the Fitzroy memorabilia (via the Lions website):

"Lions pride on display"

http://www.lions.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/5085/newsid/126289/default.aspx

Fitzroy, to many, is a club without a home but a memorabilia collection should give fans a focus.

FITZROY was forced through circumstance to become a nomad for the final decade-and-a-bit of its VFL/AFL existence. And when it comes to the tangible historical legacy left to represent the club, little has changed in the 15 years since the proud old Lions did finally cease to exist.

The trophies, medals, the assorted silverware, the uniforms, the photos and relics of a proud VFL establishment club have moved countless times. Quips long-time Fitzroy football manager and now historical head Arthur Wilson: ''It's the most travelled memorabilia in Australia.

...

 

[Soul1986]

Article from the Sunday Age on the Fitzroy memorabilia (via the Lions website):

"Lions pride on display"

http://www.lions.com.au/news/newsarticle/tabid/5085/newsid/126289/default.aspx

It will be interesting to see how this memorabilia display compares to the 'Fitzroy Shop and Museum' - a substantial memorabilia display in Mordialloc.

In any case, a great development.

But for me, the mid to long term goal should be to house the 'ENTIRE' Fitzroy collection at one site - not Etihad Stadium nor Mordialloc.

Preferably a home we can rightfully call 'ours' within arms reach of Brunswick Street Oval.

Given Yarra Council have just completed a 7.2 million redevelopment of Victoria Park, perhaps this is not just a pipe dream....

This has to be the ultimate goal. Ala every other AFL club. Until this outcome is achieved, our memorabilia will never have a true home

 

[Roylion]

It will be interesting to see how this memorabilia display compares to the 'Fitzroy Shop and Museum' - a substantial memorabilia display in Mordialloc.

Rohan Connolly's article didn't mention this at all. The Museum has been going since 2003 at least and up until the Brisbane Lions display is opened later this week, was the largest collection of Fitzroy memorabilia in existence.

But for me, the mid to long term goal should be to house the 'ENTIRE' Fitzroy collection at one site - not Etihad Stadium nor Mordialloc.

Preferably a home we can rightfully call 'ours' within arms reach of Brunswick Street Oval.

Agreed. Properly the entire collection has to be in Fitzroy or North Fitzroy. Fitzroy never played at Etihad Stadium and never will.

This has to be the ultimate goal. Ala every other AFL club. Until this outcome is achieved, our memorabilia will never have a true home

A joint Brisbane Lions / Fitzroy Football Club social club close to Brunswick Street would be ideal.

 

[Soul1986]

Rohan Connolly's article didn't mention this at all. The Museum has been going since 2003 at least and up until the Brisbane Lions display is opened later this week, was the largest collection of Fitzroy memorabilia in existence.



Agreed. Properly the entire collection has to be in Fitzroy or North Fitzroy. Fitzroy never played at Etihad Stadium and never will.



A joint Brisbane Lions / Fitzroy Football Club social club close to Brunswick Street would be ideal.

Spot on. This should be the ultimate goal.

Lets also remember the AFL, Federal & State governments & local councils, have tipped in tens of millions of dollars into new training and administration facilities for EVERY AFL club. Essendon have just been added to this list and Port/Crows will move to Adelaide Oval in coming years.

I am sure, these facilities also incorporate a museum/hall of fame.

Given this situation, funding should be sought and approved, from these bodies.

Infact, the Brisbane Lions are looking for a suitable training/administration locaction in Brisbane as we speak. They too, will request suitable funding from the various bodies. Perfect timing, to also incorporate this project into the plans.

Hopefully, the Victorian Government could come up with the lions share of funding for a Fitzroy museum in Melbourne, with support from the lions, Fitzroy and Yarra Council. Note, Yarra Council just spent 7.2 million dollars, refurbishing Victoria Park.

The QLD government can simply focus on the lions training/admin centre in QLD.

 

[Carn the Roys!]

So, who's going tonight?