Fitting tribute to legend

By Kath Gannaway
YARRA Glen took out the inaugural James (Juby) Wandin Memorial Match on Saturday in a fitting conclusion to what will become an annual event.
The match against Yarra Junction was part of a full day of activities hosted by Yarra Glen Football Club to raise funds to erect a memorial at Mr Wandin’s grave and for a perpetual trophy.
Known to everyone as Juby, the Healesville footballer contributed more than 55 years to the sport as a player and coach at local level and at Apollo Bay.
He played for St Kilda in the VFL and finished off his football career on the radio bringing the game to life with friend and fellow commentator Jimmy Young.
Juby, also Ngurungaeta (headman) of the Wurundjeri tribe, died in February 2006.
Judy Freeman, his partner of more than 20 years, said the day had been a great success, despite the cold and rain, which forced the cancellation of some of the activities.
The day was supported by the Healesville/Marysville Labor Party and Labor was represented on all levels with State Sports Minister James Merlino, Federal candidate Rob Mitchell, Seymour MP Ben Hardman and Healesville president Trevor Mays all making appearances during the day.
Councillor Jeanette McRae represented the Shire of Yarra Ranges and among the football fraternity were former Healesville teammate and Carlton Brownlow medallist Gordon Collis, Sam Rowarth from Apollo Bay and Yarra Glen contemporary Barry Smith.
There were a number of highlights during the day.
Accepting the shield, Yarra Glen coach Shane Kaal said he was just a kid when Juby gave him his first seniors match.
“You have won this for us today. Well done and thank you,” he said to the players.
Juby’s son Perry Wandin tossed the coin and presented the shield saying he was proud as the eldest son to have that privilege.
His son, Justin, bounced the ball to start the match.
Murrundindi, Juby’s nephew who took over as Ngurungaeta after Juby’s death, performed a traditional ceremony invoked by tribes as they came together.
“My uncle Juby was a great man,” he said.
“He had a lot of respect for players and for one another and respect in the community. It’s about respect,” he said, as he spoke of his uncle’s spirit soaring with the eagles over Healesville.
And in a final bit of footy fever, Jimmy Young raised the roof and more than $800 towards the cause as auctioneer of a framed, autographed Carlton Football Club jumper.