SIXTIES FOOTBALL LEGENDS

MURRAY DICKSON

Hobart's Murray Dickson barracked for Clarence as a kid, but because he lived in Lindisfarne he was tied to the Tigers. A strong raw boned junior Dickson started his career at Hutchins school before playing with Lindisfarne in the TFL under 19's.
In 1968 Dickson made his senior debut and so started a long and illustrious association with the Hobart club.
His career saw the highs and lows that come part and parcel with Aussie rules, but nothing could surpass his involvement in Hobart's 1973 premiership win. Dickson this week fondly recalled the euphoria that surrounded the club and the after match celebrations. Hobart as underdogs halted Sandy Bay's unbeaten record to take the flag in what many describe, as the greatest boilover in Tasmanian football. In doing so, they became the only club in TFL history to win the flag from fourth position.

Dickson was inducted into senior ranks by none other than Dennis Powell. Powell, whose reputation as a clubman was hard to surpass, insisted Dickson go into the showers before the game and have a swig of Stones Green Ginger Wine. Dickson chuckled when recalling the incident "It was a bloody cold day and the syrup warmed me up, but my timing was all at sea and I can't remember much about the match at all" he laughed.

This initiation did little to detract from Dickson's natural ability and it soon became obvious he would become one of the most reliable ruckmen in the league. Renowned for his palming of the ball, quick hands and strong overhead marking, Dickson's career with the Tigers saw him experience every imaginable emotion. The Tigers were renowned for their roller coaster achievements. Premiers one year, then cellar dwellers for seasons on end. Dickson however, never lost his zest for the game. He was a regular representative player, for both the TFL and the State; becoming one of the league's most decorated players. In 1980 Dickson was lured to Queensland to coach Cooparoo. That year, Hobart took the TFL flag, however Dickson's fortunes were not as memorable. After bringing the Queensland club from the wooden spoon, they were defeated by 4 points in one of the fieriest grand finals ever seen in the Sunshine State.

Dickson returned to Tassy for the 1983 season for one last year of TFL footy before coaching OHA in the amateurs. He and the family returned to Queensland soon after to coach Coolangatta before concentrating on business interests.

In all Murray Dickson's record stood at 209 TFL games, Premiership player, Club Best & Fairest, 20 TFL appearances, 13 State games: including Captain, Weller Arnold and Lefroy medallist. Truly one of the most reliable and decorated of all TFL players.

These days Dickson and his wife manage the accommodation and catering services at Queensland's Bond University. Previously they ran the Moroccan Resort on the Gold Coast. Son's Brett & Scott still reside in Hobart and play with Hobart and Kingston respectively. Other son Shaun played footy with Broadbeach on the Gold Coast. Daughter Ellie is a netball fanatic and was selected to attend the Institute of Sport in the under 18 squad.

On his playing days Dickson said "The '73 premiership stood out, but I also really looked forward to representative games; particularly the coaching of John Devine." Of his club coaches Trevor Leo and Alan "Apples" Appleton were great, while team mates Kerry Wilson, Malcolm Bugg and Burnie Payne were stars. Don't forget "Powellie" or next time he sees me he'll force feed me with that bloody Stones wine again. Of his own career he humbly recalled: "I was lucky. I had plenty of help. Hobart always seemed to have good big men. Starting with Dennis Powell then John Emin, Kerry Williams, Ken Luxmore and Phil Martyn. Of the opposition: No-one was easy, but rest assured none gave you more trouble than Kevin Baker from Glenorchy; and Longford's Barry Lawrence was as tough as they come in the representative games.

Murray Dickson often watches the Brisbane Lions at the 'Gabba where he and a group of expatriate Tasmanians regularly meet. He was saddened by Hobart's demise from the TFL, but hopes they will again be a force in the SFL.
"The club has survived so the Hobart and Cananore legends still have an identity" he said.

Keen on fishing, "Dicko", or "Muzza" as he was called by Hobart fans, has a 10 metre launch and loves nothing better than a day on the water after schnappers, mackerel and barramundi. "Muzza" is fondly remembered by all at the TCA for his blond hair, his number 25 guernsey and his courage.

A tireless ruckman and a great clubman. Murray Dickson: a Tiger who more than earned his stripes.

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Murray Dickson - A Tasmanian Football Legend

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go to these websites. SFL ; NTFL