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In memory of
1945 - 2011
247 Entries
Ann Nolan
January 14, 2020
In 1973 Artie and Jack Gibson stayed with my family in Atherton,CA. My husband,Dick Nolan was head coach of the SF49ers where they spent time learning about American football. They also took time to visit our youngest sons classroom for show&tell'. I baked a chocolate cake a day for them and at one meal they ate 14 pork chops .We went shopping at Saks 5th Ave for size 14 shoes and xxl shirts. The 70 year old sales lady had a good day and something to talk about the rest of her life.
John vanderMeer
February 26, 2012
A true Queenslander, I was there at Lang Park to watch him inspire the First Origin win in Maj *80.Let the Qld competition be called after Artie- "THE ARTIE BEETSON CUP".What an honour to win that !!!
Del Kelly
February 17, 2012
Great memories of a great man
Robbie Burgmann
January 22, 2012
Will always remember you Artie, you played with the Sydney (East) Roosters on our first date with my husband in the Semi-finals against Manley, have been married now 36 years. You will always be a legend. Rest in Peace, Arohanui
David Credaro
January 18, 2012
For all the Tigers of the sixties you were our champion. RIP Arthur.
joh
January 16, 2012
a gentleman and a hero. followed your career since you joined out roosters. one man we can truely call a legend
Anne KRASNIEWICZ
January 10, 2012
A lendgendary Rugby League player whose acheivements can inspire our troubled indigienous youth to join any team enjoy playing football.
Col
December 28, 2011
Artie you are inspiring to thousands of people throughout our great country. Thankyou for inspiring me.
trudi hughes
December 22, 2011
you were my father's hero
and he is mine
there's a thread of respect and dignity that runs deep between us all now
rip
Msureen
December 22, 2011
Will always be a legend
December 20, 2011
My memory Of Artie, was 1980 melbourne cup when Artie was snowed under at his Hotel in Redcliffe and he asked his cousin Barbara if she knew anyone who might lend a hand, so Barb called me and I responded, What a man he greeted me with the biggest smile and said "thanks" which came from the bottom of his heart.I feel honoured to have meet this wonderful MAN ,May You rest in peace Artie Nancy Hardy
Veronica Kissier
December 18, 2011
May the wind blow the leaves gently with the angels watching over you, you were a true legend who will live in the hearts of many, may you rest in peace. Veronica, Mackay Qld
andrew mccarthy
December 18, 2011
rip...artie....great bloke,my father in law use to have a beer with artie,back in balmain.
Jeanette & Peter Wright
December 17, 2011
Arthur Beetson (Artie) You were an inspirational indigenous Australian who will be missed bye all, especially your family and friends. You were a proud man, a sporting legend and a great Queenslander. Thank you for the memories. You will be missed bye all.
Norman Moffatt
December 11, 2011
What can I say that hasn't been said,66 is to young, RIP Artie.
KARL DODD
December 10, 2011
A genuine legend in every sense. A proud man, wonderful ambassador for the game, and a truly great human being and character. Will be missed by all diehard Rugby League fans, but never forgotten. Have never seen a forward with the ball skills that Artie had, pure magic. R.I.P. Big Fella. On behalf of Bill CHELTON,Dumps THOMPSON,Jim PERRY and Mike DUNLOP four old Rugby League tragic's from the Rugby League outpost of Barrow-in-Furness England. (Karl DODD Brisbane ex-Barrow-in-Furness).
craig fletcher
December 9, 2011
as a kid growing up in ermington an west ryde aurthur beetson a ledgend,i remember kids at school saying i live couple a doors up an i said i seen him last night in kentuky fried opposite putt putt on victoria rd ,marsden rd ermington,an thats true i use to love the ball skill an double shuffle an on to johnny peard an big mark harris authur could make an ordinary footballer shine,, fletch
Jim Smith
December 9, 2011
Gone from our lives but lives on in our hearts
Pork
December 9, 2011
Couldn't have said it better than Jilly Jilly of Hobart. Loved you big guy.
Rondell Threadgate
December 8, 2011
He was my all time footy star, I met him at a function at Highland park a couple of years ago,such a humble man, gentleman and he gave us a lot of laughs that night, Such a sad loss, my thoughts are with his wife his boys and grandchildren and his extended famiy and friends. A legend a top guy, he is immortal, never to be forgotten
Graham Arnold
December 8, 2011
Artie, a sudden shock to us who didnt ever meet you, you were a tru blue Queenslander. Rip. Oh hope to drive the big fellow upstairs crazy on how to play footy?
Alex Martin
December 8, 2011
I haven't had a beer for 11 years now, but the one clear memory I do have is meeting you at the Redcliffe pub and having a couple of beers with you ( your shout} as you listened to and gave advice to a troubled 18 year old murrie man.I now work as a counsellor helping others. Thank you Uncle.
Jenny Airs
December 8, 2011
A great role model for Indigenous Australians. He will be sadly missed. RIP Artie.
tommy mitchell
December 7, 2011
ARTHUR thanks for the help nsw maori rugby league R.I.P. my friend
Pat McAuliffe
December 7, 2011
It's sad for Qld and sad for the family. RIP Arthur, you are missed. Love to Carmen
Ian Morrison
December 5, 2011
The great game has lost another one of it's great players. The face of artie beetson brings back memories that can't be forgotten. welcome to the club of imortals.....
. Queenslander .
robert follent
December 5, 2011
you will be sadly missed ARTIE, Condolences to the family
Steve Lloyd
December 5, 2011
fair dinkum legend and a real role model for kids.you were my hero growing up and you still are my hero big fella.thanks for a life time of memmories.
Linda O
December 5, 2011
You touched so many lives RIP. It would be nice for both State of Orgin sides who played in the last series formed a guard of honor to this incrediable man when that time comes to say farewell.
Dennis Farnham
December 5, 2011
Will miss the "Gentle Giant", a great man & a great boss. Cheers Artie.
Dennis Farnham Lead guitarist, Shotgun.
Moreton Bay Hotel
William Keighran
December 5, 2011
Only met you once, had a great time always in my memory
Carolyn Bowtell
December 5, 2011
was a fan ever since he came to Redcliffe from Roma.Fantastic player,if left in centers would have been better than Meninga,great combo with Kevin Yow Yeh.Great person and sadly missed
Geoff Smith
December 5, 2011
I was in awe of him. He was the reason I began to follow Easts.Just to sit in the same stand as him was an honour.
Lindsay Gamble
December 5, 2011
Artie was the best prop I have ever seen and his passing is extremely sad but he did leave us some wonderful memories. Thanks for those Artie, you have earned your title as an immortal.
Mary McGee
December 4, 2011
What a legend -
never met the man - more's the pity -
couldn't believe it when i read he had gone - cried my eyes out -
You're a legend Artie and we will never forget you.
kate kerlin
December 4, 2011
With love to the family
Pale Whale
December 4, 2011
My sincere condolences to his family.I played directly against Artie in the 60 and70,s.he was as tough as they came but always had a few beers after the game. I was fortunate to have played against some if the greats of the game and he was up there with the best both on and off the field.
Jilly Jilly
December 3, 2011
Artie you belonged to the whole of Australia and in their families and in their hearts you will forever remain. May you RIP you wonderful man.
Mark Roberts
December 3, 2011
Had the pleasure of drinking at Arties pub at Redcliffe a couple of times, he was such a popular bloke that the place was booming! Just had to go and see the guy. WOW !!.
He will always be in our thoughts and prayers.
A Great Australian !!!
diane hook
December 3, 2011
A tough never to be forgotten RIP Arthur
Dot
December 3, 2011
Arthur Beetson an all round great 'bloke' - a proud Indigenous Australian - a footy icon and a hero and friend to many. Artie's pride in who he was and what he was about burst out of him and left no-one in doubt that they were in the presence of humble greatness. RIP ' Big Man' you will be sorely missed.
Dennis
December 3, 2011
Big Artie
I cried with joy when you ran on for Queensland in 1980. I knew that we could not lose with you on our side. I am now crying with sadness. You are a true son of this land- one of a kind. I love you.
Anthony Keary
December 3, 2011
I saw Artie at the local shops a few years ago. I said to my then 3yo daughter "thats Arthur Beetson, the Rooster's best ever player." She said "hello Mr Beetson" and Artie's face lit up as he stopped to have a chat. A great player and a great man.
johnno foster
December 3, 2011
artie,you enriched the lives of so many people,i cried today and when i first heard the sad news,iwas shattered, and we all will be for along time to come,you will always be remembered,your passion for making so many peoples life better,is the measure of greatness, so few will achieve,god bless you ,champion..
Debbie Cesari
December 3, 2011
Simply the Best!!
Thanks for the Memories
I am so proud that you are a brother..
PH
December 3, 2011
It was 1980 at Belmore Sports Ground and I was a 14 year old kid at the footy with my best friend. I happened to see Artie walking on the field and thought OMG, he was so tall and big. But by all accounts he was also a lovely man and a gentle giant. I wished I could have met him and shaken his hand. RIP, Artie, you will be missed. PH.
David Edwards
December 2, 2011
Always made me smile. Always will Arthur.
Margaret Staines
December 2, 2011
Artie you may have been the greatest football player but you gave an even greater gift in life and that was to the late Geoff Keys. You came to Henry Street many times and took Uncle Geoff in the wheel chair out to functions. I will never forget how you made him laugh, many good nights had by all. Thank you. Margaret (great niece)
Doug A
December 2, 2011
Arthur Beetson, the first Indigenous Australian to captain any national sporting team.
That in itself is worthy of the greatest recognition not just in Queensland but in all of Australia.
A truly unassuming pioneer that markedly contributed to his sport, his people, his home state & his nation.
From Roma to Redcliffe & beyond, you will be sorely missed & may your achievements & big-heartedness be never forgotten.
Damian
December 2, 2011
Big Artie a "True Immortal"your legacy will live on. Our prayers are with your family.
Mark,Deb,Jake & Ben Heuschele
December 2, 2011
RIP Arthur Beetson. You will be surely missed by all. Our deepest sympathy goes out to your family and friends at this very sad time. Our thoughts and prayers are with you today and always.xoxox
Greg Wilder
December 2, 2011
Vividly remember Frank Hyde calling Arthur's first Sydney game in '66.Frank found himself mentioning this young lump of a bloke from Queensland in almost every play.He said,boy,this young fellow is something right out of the box.Frank was a good judge indeed.
M F
December 2, 2011
Beetson - Fairfax forever. xxx
Phil Garde
December 2, 2011
Gone too soon from us but the memories will be with us for generations to come
Dean Hadson
December 2, 2011
Big Artie.....So many childhood memories of sitting on the hill at the sports ground with my Dad and watching this huge man leading out the mighty Eastern Suburbs....i even sent Artie an invite to my 6th birthday, he wasnt able to attend but had a card sent to me signed by the 76 side which still takes pride of place in my house....The Roosters have been a massive part of my life and Arthur is the man who started it all....thank you Arthur...
Ron Rose
December 2, 2011
Old enough and lucky enough to have seen all of Artie's career in Sydney. Still recall being in awe of that big, unfit guy's skills in 1966. RIP Artie. A big, BIG man in every way.
Sheila
December 2, 2011
He was a true gentle giant and a joy to meet. RIP dear Artie, taken too soon.
John Davis
December 2, 2011
I never had the pleasure to met you but you truly were an inspiration to many kids, no matter what the colour of their skin.
RIP, big fella.
Jiohn, Sydney
Adam K
December 2, 2011
It's Great to be a Queenslander!!!!! You did so much for Qld and our Indigenous youth, thank you!!!! Queensland will miss but not forget you!!!!
Mark Butler
December 2, 2011
As an 11yo, Artie gave me a lift home to Ryde after a Balmain game against Cronulla at Sutherland in 1967. He was my hero before that is a hero to me now. His only controversy was his passion for a meat pie. Great man, sadly missed.
Charlene Gordon
December 2, 2011
I had the pleasure of meeting this great wonderful man when I was young and then later in life through the FOGS programe. He even signed my son's indigenous jersy. He was a true gentlemen and scholar and everytime you seen him he was laughing or cracking a joke. He NEVER once thought he was anything he wasn't. He was just a true blue aussie through and through. A GREAT indigenous mentor so much so that when he walked into a room it was like GOD himself was walking in adults and kids alike gravetated towards him and he always obliged them. I still can't believe he has gone and it breaks my heart to think about it cause we have lost such a GREATNESS. Not only to the indigenous community but Australia as a whole.
When they take you on your last walk down the tunnel, tough men of league will cry as will ALL those who you meant so much too. I know I will.
YOU ARE going to be sadly missed. Condolences to your family, friends and the football fraternity.
GOOD BYE BIG FULLA.
I AM AND ALWAYS WILL BE A PROUD MURRI QUEENLANDER THANKS TO YOU
Christopher Pate
December 2, 2011
On the street, no place to go, and a girl in tow, Arthur put me up in The Big House, till I found a job as a waiter. And got my life back on track. A true legend both on and off the field. I`ll miss the big man.
Brian Peacock
December 2, 2011
The man I imotalised as a player, then as a coach and as a good friend who was always willing to lend a hand and always had a smile and warm handshake ready. Thanks for all the great memories and inspiration you gave. May God bless Artie Beetson and RIP big fella. Brian Peacock (Redcliffe QLD)
Tess Robson
December 2, 2011
Vale Arthur Beetson, an inspirational man to so many...You have left the earth a better place for what you have done and for who you have been. R.I.P
December 2, 2011
I grew up idolizing the man, even took LIttle Artie as a nickname while playing. The one time I got to speak to him, he was so personable and treated me like I was a mate, all the while I was awestruck. I teared up when I found he had passed. I will never forget you and the inspiration you were to me throughout my life. Brett
Rob McArthur
December 2, 2011
Australia has very few great Australians that our children can look to with inspiration , affection and as a role model. Thank you for being just an ordinary bloke that did extraordinary things. Thank you for having made our country a better place and for leaving a legacy our children will cherish. May your legend live forever.
Joan Lyons
December 2, 2011
He was an inspiration to countless people not only in Rugby League but to the Aboriginal youth and followers everywhere and will be sadly missed. RIP Big Fella
Astrid Beetson
December 2, 2011
You will always live in our hearts and prayers
R.I.P xx?
Christine Steele
December 2, 2011
I will never forget receiving a hug in Parramatta Leaques club after a match - he is a legend and I truely hope they give him a state funeral as no other sporting hero deserves it more. Gone - never forgotten - RIP my champion on and off the field Chris S Greystanes NSW
Mindy Beetson
December 2, 2011
Rest In Peace Artie xx
Phillip Cilia
December 2, 2011
IN MEMORY OF ARTHUR BEETSON
It is said that someone is only truly ever gone, when the memories fade away. The memories that we all have of Arthur Beetson, will remain with us, for the rest of our lives. Arthur Beetson was one of the finest players to ever play the game. Through his skill and determination, he became a Rugby League Immortal, that "hallowed term", for those players who have been voted by their peers as Legends. He was a Rugby League, Queensland, and Australian Sporting Hero, who inspired indigenous people and generations of indigenous players, and "blazed a trail" for players to follow, such as Preston Campbell, Jamal Idris, Greg Inglis, and Jarryd Hayne. His loss will be felt, by all who follow Rugby League. I think his record speaks for itself, and his place in "the panthenon of greats", is assured.
I as we all do, have fond memories, growing up watching the first State of Origin, and his clash with Mick Cronin (a gentleman of the game, and a Legend in his own right), when no one thought that the game would be taken seriously. It was that hit on Cronin, a Parramatta team mate at the time, that bestowed State of Origin, to legend status, in the hearts and minds of all Rugby League followers.
Vale Arthur Beetson. Your legacy will be remembered forever. You will never be forgotten. May I offer my sympathies and condolences to his family. May he rest in peace.
Darren Hawkins
December 2, 2011
I can remember when parramatta signed Arthur Beetson at the end of his on field, playing career in Rugby League. I asked my father "who is this Beetson bloke we have signed?" (ok ... I was VERY young!)
"Only one of the best forwards to have ever played the game" dad replied "If had only signed him at the start of 76".
I didnt quite get what dad meant back then ..... I do now !!!
RIP Artie.
Thank you for the memories
Clinton
December 2, 2011
Artie, your gone mate but you'll never be forgotten. QUEENSLANDER!. Rest in Peace.
Marie Schwartz
December 2, 2011
Artie, you were my dads favourite footballer back in the good old days. When a tv game was screened and you were playing, us kids were allowed to sit and watch the game but we didn't dare to speak or blink during the game. Dad would say, shhh, this is my big Artie playing, be quiet or leave the room. No doubt dad will be up there in heaven with you talking about the way you played the game, clever but hard. Rest in Peace Artie. You really were the greatest of all time.
Elizabeth Hayes
December 2, 2011
Arthur was "the" greatest League Legend and no others have surpassed him. He will be remembered forever, making him a true "immortal". Rest in peace Arthur, you have lived a life to be proud of.
December 2, 2011
A Great Person,Player and Mentor . We will miss you immensely Big Arthur. FOG 18 Paul McCabe
keith gray
December 2, 2011
arthur was very kind extremely polite and was just great mate
peter bosly
December 2, 2011
Grew up with Arthur in Roma, in fact he took my sister, Stephanie out a few times.. He was a great bloke then, nothing changed in 48 years.. We'll miss him..
terry stormon
December 2, 2011
Forget "Dirty Harry", if Artie shook my hand & even just said "hello" it really "made my day." He was a superb bloke & I dearly loved him
Jane Chalmers
December 2, 2011
You were one of a kind Artie and an absolute legend. Deepest sympathies to your family - I hope they take some comfort from how loved you were by ordinary people who loved to watch you play.
Peita Drady
December 2, 2011
A legend passes but a memory remains. Rest in Peace Artie, you will be sadly missed.
Heather Kennedy
December 2, 2011
God bless you, Artie.
Melissa
December 2, 2011
Artie was and will always be the best and most honest NRL player! what he done for the game of NRL will never be forgotten!! RIP Artie
Scott Miller
December 2, 2011
You put Roma on the map Artie. We'll never forget you out here buddy. Rest in Peace mate.
brett kondratiew
December 2, 2011
A statesman of our great game of rugby league. Arthur was the best of our immortals and we will never see anyone like him again.
Nancye Atherton
December 2, 2011
What a great player and person the league family has lost. Great player for the Roosters, Queensland and Australia. Our thoughts are with his family and enjoy the league in heaven. Greg & Nancye, Byron Bay
Debbie Shaw
December 2, 2011
Even if you didn't know alot about football, you knew Artie Beetson. Rest In Peace Artie. You will be sadly missed
kent matthews
December 2, 2011
Growing up in sydneys eastern suburbs when the roosters won the 74/75 grand final, and myself playing for bondi united in the under 9"s. Artie was larger than life, my father use to share a few beers with him at the local pub. Artie you are a legend to rugby league and an even bigger legend to life! Very sad to here of his passing, May the way Athur lived his life carry on and be an example for others.
Carol Gatt
December 2, 2011
Rest in Peace Artie. Our Thoughts are with you and your Rugby league family.
Carol Gatt
December 2, 2011
Artie,
You are a true champion. You will be missed. You did Queensland proud, and the indigenous people.Rest in peace:(
Carmel King
December 2, 2011
Unforgettable- a true legend and humble gentleman who will be greatly missed. Such a sad day with the news of your untimely death. RIP big fella.
Mick Fleming
December 2, 2011
Artie, rest in peace. A proud an inspirational Australian, Queenslander, an Indigenous man. Your legacy will live on and you will not be forgotten
Brooke Sheck
December 2, 2011
Artie was a true Queenslander. He will rest well knowing that the Maroons are champions. Thank you for bringing your passion to the game. We will miss you. Rest in peace.
Bob Grocott
December 2, 2011
In June 1966 I hitchhiked from Canberra to the SCG and back to watch Artie's first rep game(City v Country). First impression was that he was an animal("the Beast" Beetson) because all he did was try to knock Ron Crowe's head off every time Crowe had distributed the ball. He did zero in attack. NSW selectors obviously knew something different as both Arthur and Ron made the NSW team v Qld there the following weekend. Other members of the NSW pack were Raper, Thornett, Ryan and Walsh. Six weeks later on the same ground he debuted for Australia to help us win the Ashes 3rd Test against the Poms. His team mates included Wittenberg, Kelly, Veivers and Lynch. In racing parlance he had moved straight into open company and never looked back. The rest is history!
As a Rugby League forward he was unique. As a personality he was larger than life. I consider it a great privilege to have watched him entertain us from the sidelines along the way. RIP Big Artie.
Paul Taylor
December 1, 2011
Artie a true immortal that will never be forgotten
A legend in QLD sport and your legacy will live on forever
Watch over the game from above RIP artie
Charlie King
December 1, 2011
Artie recently visited Darwin. In a single day he spoke at the Child Protection Week launch, visited the Juvenile Detention Centre, spoke to Catholic Care workers about men taking a stand against family violence and child abuse and then was guest speaker at the NT Rugby League awards night. We are proud to have been associated with him. May he rest in peace.
Pep
December 1, 2011
A true pioneer of the game a legend RIP Big Artie
Danny The cow
December 1, 2011
My first Roosters jumper was number11 thirty six years ago,we'll miss ya mate
Brian Cane Toad
December 1, 2011
Even when Artie and Tony were on 9network for State of origion duties he never had a bad word to say about anybody
Legacy Remembers
Posted an obituary
December 1, 2011
Arthur Beetson Obituary
ARTHUR Beetson had a presence about which made people stop in their tracks.It wasn't just his size, although that played a part.The affable giant from Roma oozed charisma and charm, possessing a smile and manner which immediately won friends... Read Arthur Beetson's Obituary
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