VALE Stuart “Squiggle” Hunter
“Young Old Colleague gone too soon”
Stuart played in the Sutherland cup in the days there little or no Halligan Cup. (Late 80’s and early 90’s). He was used mostly as a reserve and would have been the first to admit he was not the greatest rugby player to lace on a Blue Giant boot. At one point he asked senior player Tim Cullen how he could improve his game to which Tim replied “try managing” (hard but fair)
As it turned out he turned his skills turned to organising the team jerseys and managing the team. His admin skills were very much appreciated and he became a fixture behind the scenes. His many years at the Colleagues involved regularly managing and being on committee.
Stu rarely missed a long lunch and Old Colleagues Day. He was on the side line or on the balcony for most games. He had a deep love of rugby and a deeper love of the Colleagues.
As was his selfless and humble nature he was an organ donor. News I received since his passing, his two kidneys were transplanted successfully. He was not only a very good man but a giver of life.
All Colleagues thoughts are with his partner Jo and two boys Thomas and Oliver at this time.
Service details to come.
MONTHLY OLD COLLEAGUES NEWS MAY 2025
Season so far……
Hunters Hill away. A very rusty start for the Blue Giants with possibly playing after ANZAC day being given as a below standard performance across the grades. Highlights were the new Hunter’s clubhouse, the rissole sandwiches and a number of Old Colleagues at the game to watch their sons play!
Blue Mountains at home saw a great turnout of Old Colleagues watching the club go toe to toe with the competition heavyweights.Old Colleagues from the 60’s to current vintage were treated to some fine rugby.Unfortunately losses to the Burke and Kentwell Cups in the final minutes was hugely disappointing. It didn’t deter a few Old Colleagues however from joining in on the boat race after speeches providing plenty of humour for the crowd.
A positive note on the day was the much improved performance of the Kentwell Cup, a confidence boost for the games ahead.
After the Waverley game was washed out on 3rd May the local derby was played on the wet weather bye weekend on the all weather surface across the creek on Woollahra no1 home of the East’s Beasts.Waverley last years club champions again proved hard to beat in every grade.
However the Blue Giant Kentwell Cup were up to the task and in the closest of games and including several nail biting 80th minute moments squeezed home winners 26-24. (The win dedicated to Old Colleague the late Stuart (Squiggle) Hunter).
With the Lindfield game washed out the next game is V’s the dirty Reds May 31st at Drummoyne Oval!
See you there
“Go The Colleagues”
Boothie
Colleagues’ Culture: We must be doing something right …
As a member of the NSW Suburban Rugby Union, which is one of the most noteworthy rugby organizations in the Southern Hemisphere, the Woollahra Colleagues Rugby Union Football Club holds a prestigious and formidable place.
The Colleagues have a long association with the Suburban Rugby Union and have competed in the Suburban competition since 1933. While many clubs have come and gone in these ninety-plus years, since their debut in 1933, Colleagues is the only Suburban club to have never been relegated down the divisions. This in itself is indicative of a strong organization with a great culture and quality administration standing the test of time. During their long and colourful history the Colleagues have always been successful both on and off the field.
As we approach our Centenary, celebrating one hundred years of existence as a Suburban rugby club, it is timely to reflect on the reasons for the longevity of this proud legacy.
Strong administrators with visionary skills have been the cornerstone of Colleagues’ durability. These skills were imperative early in our existence. The resilience of the administrators was severely tested with the outbreak of World War Two and, more recently, the onset of Covid. Both events signaled the suspension of subbies rugby. After these disruptions the need to regroup as a club was both challenging and strategic.
As early as 1939, Suburban HQ noted in their book (‘The Game For The Game Itself.’) that ‘Behind Colleagues platform of success at this time was, undoubtedly, the ability to attract and retain very good administrators.’ This is as valid in 2025 as it was in 1939. The democratic process is a vital component of the culture as the players elect the administrators.
The 2024 Annual Report is a testament to the club’s professionalism, organization, and initiative. The administration appoints coaches who not only provide technical expertise, but foster harmony and spirit within their respective teams and the club.
The esprit de corps is further enhanced by the legendary social side of club life. The Long Lunch, Ladies Days, pre-season trial matches to country venues (and the bus trip!) all engender the spirit of camaraderie.
The inclusivity of the Colleagues has also meant that the wide cross section of the members is derived from diverse nationalities, occupations, cultural backgrounds and religions. This complex and varied mixture is where Colleagues actually derives its strength, having so many people involved for the love and passion of the game.
The visionary inclusion of ‘The Convicts’ and, more recently, the Ladies Team, is further increasing inclusivity, tolerance, and respect.
The competitive spirit and a healthy rivalry with our opponents are engendered within the club. During the 1960s, this was taken to extremes at training. One of our opposition clubs dressed a straw dummy model in full Colleagues regalia and all 15 players were required to manhandle and tackle it. Personally, I am glad to see we now have our own club mascot who provides a festive atmosphere for both teams as they run onto the field.
Another ingredient of success is a natural endowment. The club is located in the heart of the Eastern Suburbs. It is conveniently accessible by car (good luck finding a parking spot!), centrally located and accessible to public transport, including the fantastic ferry trip … a blessing indeed. The standalone dedicated clubhouse promotes a sense of belonging and permanence, with the displays of pennants, cups, honor boards and photographs of past teams.
There will always be a role for clubs such as Colleagues since not all participants playing rugby desire to compete at a more elite level. Many, through the pressure of study, work and family, elect to play in the Suburban Competition. This is where Colleagues derives its strength, having so many people involved for the love of the game. The camaraderie and culture of the great club is infectious and transfers to quality on and off the field.
Vance Lowry (author of Sky Blue Winters.)