Celebrating Will’s Hall of Fame

For many of us, playing sports was an essential part of our childhood and teen years, bringing together fun, friendships, healthy competition, and physical fitness. Sports ignite passion, and for the residents in our home, watching games, discussing sports, or participating in exercise activities is a true highlight.

In light of the upcoming 2024 Paris Olympics, Strathpine Aged Care resident, Will Forbes, shares with us his passion for AFL and special memories he recalls.

‘I started playing footy with my neighbour and my best mate when I was 13 years old and found out that all my friends were playing too,’ says Will. ‘I started playing at Sandgate Hawks (AFL) and I played junior for three years and senior grade for 11 years, I was in the top grade.’

Will tells us that he played for Queensland AFL with a highlight being rewarded the best player medal following a win in the grand final.

Will was a231-game star of the 1970s where he was a key defender. He played four times for Queensland in 1977 and 1980 as the QAFL built on its 1975 breakthrough win over Tasmania at the Gabba. This ultimately led to the birth of the Brisbane Bears in an expanded national competition in 1987.

When asked about a highlight from his football journey, Will says, ‘I was inducted Hall of Fame last November at AFL Queensland.’

Now at the age of 71 and living at Strathpine Aged Care, Will tells us that he enjoys any sport that involves a ball but he also likes to try other activities here at the home.

Read more about Will’s Hall of Fame on the QAFL website here.