Australian Football

Algy Millhouse was a champion all round footballer who could play in any position on the field, and could even operate as both a ruckman and rover. Having played initially for Port Pirie Rovers he joined West Broken Hill in 1908, where his performances were so outstanding that he was chosen to represent New South Wales at the inaugural Australasian championships in Melbourne that year.

In 1911 Millhouse underwent an employment transfer to Adelaide, and he joined Norwood. He played so well during his second season that there were claims from some that he was the finest footballer in Australia. On the strength of this burgeoning reputation he crossed to Melbourne in the VFL in 1913 but his form was mediocre. Midway through the season, having played 10 games and scored four goals for the Reds, he transferred to St Kilda where he suddenly found his feet. Playing mainly as a rover, he was a key factor in the Saints enjoying their best season in the VFL up to that point, culminating in a challenge final appearance against Fitzroy, albeit that this was lost.

The 1914 season found him back at the Parade where he took on the role of Redlegs captain-coach. He quit the game at season’s end and joined the First AIF. His two stints with Norwood saw him play 27 SAFL games and kick 14 goals. It seems he had no further involvement in football after returning from the war in 1919.

Author - John Devaney