Scotch College

Footballers rally to historic community gift

As part of Scotch's 150th Celebration, and the Centenary of the Federation of Australia, Scotch College and Melbourne Grammar are uniting to present a significantly historic gift to the people of Victoria.

A sculpture, depicting play in the historic first recorded Scotch/Grammar Australian Rules Football Match on 7 August 1858, will be unveiled in July 2001.

The sculpture will be in bronze, 1.25 times lifesize, in the football dress of that day, and be valued at more than $150,000.

The successful sculptor will be selected from a short list of world class artists.

One hundred and twenty Scotch and Melbourne Grammar First XVIII captains are spearheading the fundraising campaign, covering 1935 - 1998. They have personalised and signed over 2,500 letters to players in their teams.

There has been great enthusiasm for the concept and early financial response has been very promising. The preferred donation is $100 which is tax deductible.

For over one hundred and forty years Australian Rules Football has been at the centre of everyday Victorian life, providing a substantial social outlet for human relations and a major economic pillar for our economy.

This project is unique in that it will become recognised throughout the world as the designated birthplace of Aussie Rules.

A Donors Honour Book will be held in perpetuity by the MCC Trustees, with the sculpture sited in a most prominent position at the MCG. The Book will be held in the Gallery of Australian Sport for donors' descendants to view at any time, and donors will be invited to the unveiling in July 2001.

Whilst the main donor thrust is to footballers, all other members of the Scotch Family, be they coaches, umpires, timekeepers, trainers or supporters, are welcome to contribute.

This is an inexpensive opportunity for you to become a part of the history of our great homegrown game.

Don't miss out!!