Charlie Russell

Newtown RU Test star scored 24 tries on the Wallaby tour of the British Isles in 1908-09, which is still a record in the amateur code. A strong, pacy winger, Russell played in 5 Tests and was a member of the Australian team that won a gold medal at the London Olympics. On his return to Australia, Russell turned professional to take part in the Wallabies v. Kangaroos promotion before playing for Newtown and Australia the following year. Russell made his RL Test debut at fullback against the first English Lions team to tour but was replaced after Australia's 27-20 First Test loss. He proved to be the hero of Newtown's first premiership success in 1910 when he landed two goals to tie the final against Souths, 4-all. (Newtown was subsequently awarded the premiership on count-back because the club had won the minor premiership that year). Russell played for NSW in 1911 before touring with the 1911-12 ‘Australasian’ Kangaroos. He made his only Test appearances on that Ashes-winning tour, in the first two Tests against England, as well as 22 other matches. After retiring as a player, Russell was coach of the Newtown side that won the premiership in 1933. A graded referee and Australian selector, he died in 1957, aged 73.