50-year reunion for former team mates

BY ALF WILSON

Two Torres Strait Islanders who were members of the first Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait ‘All Stars’ side, which toured New Zealand in 1973, have returned from over the ditch after an emotional reunion.

The week-long reunion culminated when they were at the Rotarua ground for the NRL Indigenous Allstars versus

New Zealand Allstars men and women’s matches last Saturday.

Mr Tapim, 75, said the 1973 team played 11 games in New Zealand against Maori combinations and won nine.

“[The reunion] was a very emotional and moving experience for us all,” he said.

“Of the 40 players who toured in 1973 a total of 22 are still alive – 12 of us attended.”

Mr Mara said it was very emotional to meet up with former teammates, some whom he hadn’t seen for decades.

“It was good to see the other members who could make the journey,” Mr Mara said.

Mr Henaway said it was great to again see former teammates after so long.

“The rest of the players are from WA, NSW, the NT and other places,” Mr Tapim said.

He said they were welcomed at Auckland and enjoyed a meet and greet with the Australian Indigenous All Stars players.

A highlight was a jumper presentation and a reunion with players from the Maori sides of 1973. charges otherwise apply)

They attended the Indigenous All Stars Captain’s run before being guests at the big games at Rotorua International Stadium.

Mr Tapim has fond memories of the 1973 tour when he and Mr Mara lined up as backline centres and Mr Henaway was a second row forward.

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