Australia Rugby League Kangaroos Arthur Beetson was a Rugby League World Cup Winner in 1968.
CHILL-OUT SUNDAY THE ELLIS RUGBY – AUSTRALIA RUGBY LEAGUE KANGAROOS ARTHUR BEETSON BOOK PREVIEW
Arthur Beetson’s future talents as a ball-playing front-rower were honed in his teenage years. When he played at centre or five-eighth in his home-town of Roma in Western Queensland.
It wasn’t until he arrived in Brisbane in 1965 that coach Henry Holloway suggested a move into the forwards. Beetson established himself as arguably the finest ball-playing front-rower of a generation.
Australia Rugby League Clubs – Redcliffe Dolphins to Balmain Tigers
He headed to Sydney a year after claiming a premiership with Redcliffe. And made his name at Balmain Tigers. Where he was coached by Harry Bath. Beetson represented Australia in his first season in Sydney,. Earning the nickname ”Half-a-game Artie” after a marvellous cameo in the Ashes-deciding third Test against Great Britain. Struggling with a shoulder injury. Beetson laid on tries for wingers Johnny King and Ken Irvine that helped to secure the Ashes for Australia.
Australia Rugby League Kangaroos RLWC Winner in 1968
Also, he represented Australia again at the 1968 Rugby League World Cup,. Playing at prop forward in the win against France in the tournament final. In addition, Beetson had a spell in England with Hull Kingston Rovers in 1968.
Switch to Eastern Suburbs Roosters
Beetson switched to Eastern Suburbs in 1971. Where he developed his skills further under coaches Don Furner and later Jack Gibson. And led the Roosters to consecutive premiership wins. In 1973 he became the first Aboriginal to captain Australia in any sport. He captained Queensland.
Success with Parramatte Eels
Also, he joined the Parramatta Eels in 1979. In addition, he capped off that year with a man of the match performance in the Eels’ 8-5 Tooth Cup Final win over Balmain. Beetson returned to Queensland for one final year of playing with his old Redcliffe team in 1981.
State of Origin – Queensland v New South Wales
In the inaugural State of Origin match in 1980. Which ushered in a new era for the game. Beetson was named Rugby League Week’s seventh Immortal in 2003. He passed away in 2011.
Where to buy Australia Rugby League Kangaroos ‘Big Artie’ Book?
The excellent book ‘Big Artie’ Book. Is available from Abe Books Here
We also offer some great retro Rugby League World Cup garments. Our classic Australian Rugby League Shirt Polo Retro Kangaroo Style. Or, you can see our full Rugby League range HERE.