Visit to Ray Bernasconi

Following a telephone conversation with former St. George, Newtown and NSW fullback Brian Graham, Ray was visited at Bethel Nursing Home, 27-31 Clissold Street, Ashfield by Warren Thompson and Alan Webb. At 84 years of age Ray has great memories of his involvement with the Western Suburbs Magpies.

Originally from Narrandera he came to Sydney and worked for the Railways. Competent as a shorthand writer he intended to work in the courts. He was approached by Wests to take the minutes at their meetings and his long association (over 20 years) as an official with the Western Suburbs Magpies commenced.

During this period Ray was Wests 3rd grade Secretary between 1961-1972 winning two comps in 1961 and 1967, he was the Club Secretary 1980-1983, Assistant Secretary 1984-1987. He was made a Life member of Wests in 1971. Along with James and Alma McWhinnie he was responsible for the recording of player statistics and establishing Wests Archives. 

Ray who sadly lost his wife some 20 years ago with Leukemia, has one daughter Cathy who has two lovely daughters.  A photo of Ray and his grand-daughters hangs proudly on the wall in his room. 

After spending over an hour chatting with Ray he was presented with a Men of League Polo Shirt and Cap.
Ray can be contacted on 02 9716 4134 if you would like to have a chat.

Alan Webb – Welfare Officer, Sydney Metro.

SHARE Facebook Link Twitter Link Print The Page
Facebook Link Instagram Link Twitter Link