Ep#15_John_Starr

In the late 1970s a young western suburbs surfer was convinced by the enigmatic Jeff Nicholson to head to the coast surfing and have a kick with the local footy club. An early mix up and some fast thinking by a bright official initially saw this arty young lad headed off to Leopold for a season, but he soon found his way back to Harmer Oval and John Starr began a 40 plus year association with Barwon Heads that has seen him become a life member and take a leading hand in the look of the place that endures to this day. John played his junior footy in Melbourne where he mixed it with some VFL/AFL legends, later got to play against one of his idols and mentors, spent some time playing serious footy interstate and continued his playing career beyond the seagulls as an early adopter of super rules. A dedicated and loyal servant of the club, John has Coached at both Junior and Senior levels, played, won premierships, fought, sung, composed and painted for the footy club. He has become a significant influence on the cultural makeup of the town and the wider community of Geelong with both visual and performing arts and earned international attention for his work. Of most interest to Nipper and myself though was a song John used to perform in the late 80s which we are both fond of. We weren’t sure if he’d remember it and you’ll have to keep listening to the end to find out if he has. This is a special episode, with a beloved member of the seagull family and the Barwon Heads community and we are very pleased to invite you to join us for this conversation with Jonny Starr.