THE memorable 1990 Kangaroo tour of Britain and France is the subject of the Ross Livermore Lecture to be delivered by noted journalist and author Adrian McGregor in the Paddington Room at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday, May 30.
Titled “The Making of a Legend”, McGregor’s address will delve into the events of the tour which catapulted Australian captain Mal Meninga into the international spotlight like no other rugby league player before or since.
Meninga was named BBC Overseas Sports Star of the Year in 1990, an honour usually reserved for soccer players, track and field athletes, tennis or golf players.
McGregor acknowledges that Meninga had already made his mark in rugby league before the 1990 tour, but argues that the Bundaberg-born superstar grew in stature as a man and leader as a result of his efforts 25 years ago.
“Mal has since taken Queensland to unprecedented heights as Maroons coach in State of Origin,” McGregor said.
Prior to the 1990 tour, McGregor lived in England for several months and studied the history of the game and the clubs the Kangaroos were to play.
The result was a bestselling book “Simply the Best”, a chronicle of the Australians' achievements, with McGregor attending every game, and getting to know players and fans.
The Ross Livermore Lecture, named in honour of the former long serving QRL Managing Director, is run by the QRL History Committee, with the backing of the QRL.
Previous speakers have been Professor Max Howell, Steve Ricketts, Greg Shannon, John McCoy and Geoff Mines.
Attendance is free, but those wishing to attend are asked to notify the QRL.
Phone (07) 3367 6000 or email: reception@qrl.com.au to register your attendance.
The function begins at 10am with free morning tea to follow the address.
