Joe griffiths still refereeing at 72

Not too many whistleblowers can boast refereeing for 50 years – until the age of 72!

But that is the case of Joe Griffiths, OAM, who was  recipient of a visit by Sydney Metro welfare officerAlan Webb and John Robinson, South Sydney halfback in early 1960s.

Joe has numerous health problems over the years but was in good spirits for our visit.

He played for Mascot in the South Sydney Juniors before taking up the whistle at the age 21 and went from the local league to the Sydney graded ranks.

After having a break to coach, including University of NSW’s second grade, he did not hang up his refereeing badge until 2006.

As a comitted rugby league man, Joe is also a life member of South Sydney Referees Association and in 2008 was honoured with the Order of Australia Medal for services to the game.

Outside rugby league, Joe was also a very good runner and competed for many years with Randwick-Botany Harriers Athletic Club. No wonder he has always been able  to keep up with the game.