John excelled in two sports representing Australia in Rugby Union and Yachting. John was selected to represent Australia in 1962 at the age of twenty seven in the Test Series against New Zealand. His final Test Series was against South Africa at Pretoria in 1963. He was then selected to crew on ‘Gretel' and ‘Dame Pattie' in Australia's challenge of the America's Cup in 1962 and 1966.
- Status: Pending1973Managed the Wallabies tours of England,Wales and Italy.
- Status: Pending1987Australian Sports Medal Services to the Sport (Rugby).
- Status: Pending2000Order of Australia Medal (OAM).
- Status: Pending2010Honorary Life Member: NSW Rugby Union
Beginnings
John's early years were spent in Newcastle. He was a member of Drummoyne and Gordon ‘Stags' Rugby Union Clubs and would continue to play for thirty years: school, club representative and social rugby. He played 164 first grade games, captained the team for several years and represented NSW.
Achievements
John's test debut was New Zealand vs Australia at Wellington, Aug 25, 1962 and his last was South Africa vs. Australia at Pretoria, Jul 13, 1963. John also captained the Wallabies in several provincial games. John was a Foundation member and occasional Chairman of the Australian Rugby Union Coaching Committee which was established and continue to advise the Australian National Coaching Scheme.
Post Representation
John's dedication to Rugby Union would see his continued involvement at club, provincial, state and national level since 1971. John is acknowledged as a rugby historian.