It was a pretty enjoyable affair, starting from when you entered the Novotel and ascended the sweeping spiral staircase which was lined with wall to wall Manly Sea Birds greeting us in their cheer squad outfits.
Brett Stewart got a big cheer as our top try-scorer and made of point of saying that, though the end was disappointing, the season under Toovey had been one of his most enjoyable at the club.
All the players looked in good spirits, there is obviously a great cameraderie amongst them. Those departing were wished good luck and thanked for their contributions.
It was a night for the players so I tried to respect their privacy, but did ask King whether Graham had bitten him. He said he'd seen the TV story about it, and asked if I was a reporter! Which of course I denied, but for what it's worth he said, 'No, he just shouted in my ear … I probably overreacted'. In any case he was all class with his duties on the night. I did ask Kite if he was staying and I think he said yes. Several players are having operations.
Great to see Beaver there, still playing of course yet handing out an award named in his honour. Reminiscent of watching him score a try at Brookie right in front of a grandstand named in his honour. He told me one more year till he returns.
Johnny Gibbs was MC, and Fatty Vautin also was present and said that playing for Manly at Brookvale had always been the highlight of his career. He actually made a couple of amusing quips. Phil Daley spoke with some emotion about his late father Doug. Plenty to eat and the drinks kept coming, so all in all a fun evening.