Australian Football

Born at Lavender Bay, Sydney in 1897, Ivor Warne-Smith's football reputation was established in Tasmania and Victoria. One of the most revered names in the football history of both states, Warne-Smith was actually something of a reluctant footballer. After eight games with Melbourne in 1919 he re-located to the Latrobe region of Tasmania, not because of football, but in order to take up share farming.

Warne-Smith's football prowess was noticed during informal lunch time end to end kicking sessions at Atkinson's sale yards and he was invited to join Latrobe; however, because of the pressure of work on the farm it was not until midway through the 1920 season that he accepted the invitation. During four and a half seasons with the Diehards he proved himself an accomplished footballer in all conditions and in a variety of positions. In 1922 he took over as club coach and led the side to two flags in three years. He also performed with distinction in inter-league games, winning the Parry Medal in 1924.

Warne-Smith returned to Melbourne as a 27-year-old in 1925 and his quick-thinking, two-sided play made an immediate impact. In 1926 he won the Brownlow Medal and, playing at centre, was one of the best players afield as the Fuchsias swamped minor premier Collingwood by 57 points in the Challenge Final to claim their first premiership since 1900. It was to be the only VFL flag of Warne-Smith's career. However, he did win another Brownlow in 1928 to become the first dual winner of the award.

In recognition of his weighty contribution to Tasmanian football, Ivor Warne-Smith was, in June 2004, included in that state's official 'Team of the Century', having four years earlier being chosen at centre half forward in Melbourne's equivalent team.

Author - John Devaney