Australian Football

Melbourne recruited Bruce Abernethy from Wesley College and had to stave off opposition from St Kilda in order to sign him. Originally from Shepparton, he debuted with the Fuchsias in 1921 and impressed as a tough, hard hitting defender who was equally at home on a half back flank or in a back pocket. He could also ‘pinch hit’ on the forward lines when required. He spent the 1925 season with his home town club, Shepparton, but resumed in time to be a part of Melbourne’s rousing premiership triumph the following year. Indeed, Abernethy was one of the best players on view as the Fuchsias crushed Collingwood by 57 points, 17.17 (119) to 9.8 (62).

Jim Abernethy, who won his club’s ‘most versatile player of the season’ award in 1927, continued with Melbourne until 1932, by which time he had played 130 VFL games and kicked 61 goals.

Author - John Devaney