ONE of Balranald Football Netball Club’s greatest servants has received a one-of-a-kind birthday gift from the club.
Following their weekend win against Cohuna, Balranald’s senior football side travelled to the home of Jeff Mannix.
Mr Mannix has been an integral part of Balranald Football Club, previously holding roles as president, secretary and treasurer, at times concurrently.
Mr Mannix, who turned 63 yesterday, has been unable to travel to attend Balranald games while battling liver cancer.
But the senior team and a group of club officials took the celebrations to his home to celebrate the Roos’ win and his birthday.
Son Kris Mannix said the idea had come about within the past month.
“It originally started at our last home game,” he said.
“Mum had brought Dad over to the footy and none of the guys actually knew he was there.
“They all said that if they knew he was here they would have gone over and sung the song to him.
“Then the boys thought, if we win, we’ll get a bus to his house and sing it for him there, which is exactly what they ended up doing.”
The players belted out a powerful rendition of the club song in the front yard of Mr Mannix’s home before singing Happy Birthday.
Kris Mannix said the moment was a touching experience for his father and the family.
“Dad was really moved by this gesture from the club,” he said.
“He definitely didn’t expect it. It really meant a lot to him.
“It was unreal, the players all loved it too, which was great to see – especially seeing some of the younger guys who you’ve seen growing up through the footy club taking part.
“It wasn’t forced on anyone to do it, they all wanted to do it and be a part of the moment.
“The Balranald community means everything to him.
“He’d know everyone in the town, and I think everyone would know him as well.
“I think he’s been on the committee for well over 40 years – president, secretary, treasurer, he’s done it all.
“He got the cricket club up, and he’s been president of the Lions Club.
“We actually used to call him the Eddie McGuire of Balranald because he had a hand in everything here.”
The Roos hold second position on the Central Murray league ladder and Kris Mannix said he was proud of how far the side had come.
“It’s awesome to see Balranald doing so well,” he said. “Considering where we once were.
“The club was down and out close to 10 years ago, so it’s great to see them up and about this year.”
