Wave Bowers

Over 60 years of involvement in the code locally began in 1948 playing for Ironside State School.

Instrumental in the formation of one of West’s first junior teams that year.

A glittering trial in 1954 saw him make his senior debut as a 16 year old. Went on to play well over 100 senior games for Western Districts over 9 years before a horrific leg injury incurred at Perry Park early in 1962 prematurely ended a great club career.

Took on selection roles for the Bulldogs in 1962/3 before being approached by umpire’s boss Gerry Coyne.

After some initial reluctance, the second part of an amazing engagement with code had begun. Was a junior and reserve grade field umpire from 1963 till 67.

Umpired one senior QAFL game but his leg injury was too debilitating and a goal umpiring career continued his love of the game. Five QAFL Grand Finals in a row between 1968 and 72 stamped another great chapter in a truly wonderful football journey.

Life membership of the Umpire’s Association was a testament to a behind the scenes operator, who with great family support, initiated social and fund raising activities that were the foundation of a strong umpiring group in Brisbane through that era.

After retiring in 1973 commenced a 38-year (and still going) involvement on the QAFL tribunal. Involved in many high profile QAFL cases through this period. Was part of the tribunal team in the mid 80s that was controversially suspended by the QAFL for a week!

Awarded the AFL Merit Award and an Australian Sports Medal. A truly remarkable contribution to the code that is not finished yet.