In the ARL Centenary year 1908/2008 it is timely to remember the forgotten story of Newcastle's Pat Walsh 1908/09 Kangaroo.
Pat Walsh had played Rugby union for N.S.W 1903/04/05 & Australia 1904 (3tests) he also played in the Australian Rules Competition in Johannesburg South Africa in 1905( vice capt.Commonwealth team winners.The trophy in Aust.sporting hall of fame at M.C.G.)
In1906/07/08Heplayed Rugby union in the Auckland Comp.(representing Auckland in1907) in1908 he received a cablegram from J J Giltinan re.the 1908/09Kangaroo tour.He returned to Australia and Played his first Rugby League Match for Queensland in 1908,the first Interstate series.He played for Newcastle in 1908 & went to England on a 2nd ship(the Salamis) taking the Kangaroo Mascot with Him.He played in 29 games including the 3 tests & scored 9 tries on the tour.He was signed by Huddersfield1909-1911(Team of all Talents).
In 1911 he returned to Australia,& captained The Newcastle & Hunter Tour of Qld.His team defeating the Qld.State team in all 3 games.
In Feb 1915 He enlisted in 12th Light Horse Serving at Galipolli,Palestine & Egypt.He was mentioned in Despatches by General Allenby.
During the war He Contracted a paralysis to his legs & thereafter had to walk on crutches.
J.J.Giltinan 'considered him the Finest forward in the northern Union'.(Huddersfield Rugby News 10th April 1909) Dally Messenger listed him in his favourite Team & He was listed in W.A."Billy"Cann's Best Alltime team in1938.
Unfortunately his Achievements have been long forgotten & it appears he can not get into the top 100 list compiled by the so called "Rugby League Historians" for the Rugby League Centenary Celebrations.