Herb Brackenreg

Born in 1876, Herbert Leslie was the youngest of 11 children. When he was born both his parents were in their early 40’s. His family were quite talented; his brothers were very good athletes, while his niece Una Maxwell, was an accomplished stage actress.

Herb played a lot of lower grades Rugby Union until finally making top grade in 1905 for Eastern Suburbs. He then became a member of the Permanent Artillery Force stationed at Victoria Barracks.

In 1907, Herb was given an opportunity to represent his state against the visiting New Zealand professional side, an opportunity that seemed beyond his grasp in Rugby Union, especially considering he was in his late 20’s. He played in the famous first match which was the first game of professional Rugby on Australian soil. He was returned for the third game.

His oldest brother, George was 18 years his senior and was the first club official for the South Sydney club when he served as their delegate and one of the vice-presidents on the first NSWRL committee. In 1909 when the games founding fathers Henry Hoyle, James Giltinan and Victor Trumper were all unceremoniously dumped, George stood down and didn’t nominate for any board positions.

Herb played for Easts in their first ever game on April 20, 1908 and played in every game of their debut season. He also got selected in the Metropolis, Probables and NSW sides.

In 1909, Herb moved north of the border and lined up for South Brisbane in their debut season. Despite playing in just 5 of their 8 games, he was the side’s highest point scorer. After just 2 games for South Brisbane, he was selected in the Queensland side that played 2 games against New Zealand. He then played 2 Tests against the Kiwi’s. He backed up for 2 more games for Queensland and another 2 matches for Australia against the Maori side.

He moved to North Brisbane for the next 2 seasons. In 1910 he was again in the Australian and Australasian sides that took on the touring Great Britain team. He was again named in the Queensland team also.

Prior to the second test in 1910 at the Brisbane Exhibition Ground, a goal kicking contest was held between Dally Messenger, English goal kicker Jim Lomas and Brackenreg. Herb won the contest, a true testament to his goal kicking ability and prowess.

He again played for Queensland in 1911 against both NSW and New Zealand. In 1912 he returned to South Brisbane and played two last seasons before retiring at the end of the 1913 season at the age of 37.

He became a bookmaker after retiring from football, while he also did plenty of voluntary work organising functions to aid the Brisbane Children’s Hospital.

He became quite ill before passing away in 1939. As per his request, he was buried wearing his pioneer blazer which was presented to him by the NSWRL, a final display of his passion for the game.