As a staunch football fan, I was both proud and honoured to join Peter Hudson in New Norfolk today to officially unveil his new statue which will serve as a fitting tribute to the footballing great.
The Tasmanian Government was happy to provide $20,000 towards the construction of the statue.
Considered one of the greatest full-forwards to ever play the game, Mr Hudson began his playing career with New Norfolk, booting 378 goals in just 78 games with the club.
He realised his AFL (then the VFL) dream in 1967 when he debuted for the Hawthorn Football Club against Carlton in Round 2. Mr Hudson went on to play 129 games for the Hawks, kicking 727 goals in an illustrious career that saw him win the Coleman Medal for the League’s leading goal kicker four times.
The proud Tasmanian also became the first player to kick 100 goals in a VFL season five times, before finishing off his playing career back home in Tasmania for the Glenorchy Football Club.
He was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 1996, before being elevated to ‘Legend’ status in 1999. He was also inducted into the Sport Australia Hall of Fame in 2001.
Mr Hudson was made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for services to Australian Football in 1979.
I’m sure his great achievements have inspired many young Tasmanian footballers, and I encourage everyone to make the trip to New Norfolk to see the impressive statue.
I congratulate the New Norfolk community for driving this project and acknowledge the support provided by the Derwent Valley Council, Hawthorn Football Club and local businesses.