Des Tuddenham was born in 1943 near Ballarat – one of nine children, from a farming family. He started playing with Collingwood in 1962 and was renown for his tough & fearless play, and his skills. He won the Copeland Trophy (best & fairest) at Collingwood in 63, his first full season at the club. He became Collingwood captain in 1966 but after a ‘pay dispute’, along with Len Thompson in 1970, he lost the captaincy.
In ’71 he was named captain of the VFL representative side – the first player to be named captain while not being captain of his home club. His performance as captain of the Vic side attracted the attention of Essendon Football club, and he was enticed to become captain coach of Essendon in 72, where he stayed for four years. He lifted Essendon from 2 consecutive years of second lasts in 70,71 to finals football in his first two years. He returned to Collingwood in 76 as captain, and played for 2 more years. He finished up on 251 VFL games.
Des was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2008. In 2009 The Australian
nominated him as one of the 25 greatest footballers never to win a Brownlow.
One of Des’ greatest regrets was to have never won a premiership. He was an inspirational
captain and truly fearless footballer.
Entree – Roasted Eggplant, Garlic & Mustard Soup with Basil & Vintage Cheddar.
Main – Spanish Braised Chicken and Chorizo with Olives & Peppers, Truffled Polenta
or
Moroccan Spiced Slow Cooked Lamb Shank with Tomatoes, Cummin &
Coriander Toasted Cous Cous.
Dessert – Apricot & Brandied Raisin Bread & Butter Pudding with Orange Custard
& Vanilla Ice Cream.