Souvenir oar trophy awarded to George Neilson
Date1938
Object number00036449
NameTrophy
MediumWood, paint, copper, leather
DimensionsOverall: 30 x 470 x 20 mm, 0.02 kg
ClassificationsCommemorative artefacts
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from George Neilson
DescriptionThis souvenir oar trophy was awarded to George Neilson for winning the single sculls in 1938 at the Cabarita Park Regatta. The regatta was held as part of the unveiling of the William Beach Memorial at Cabarita Park.HistoryWilliam Beach (1851 - 1935) was a sculling legend in late 19th and early 20th century Australia. A blacksmith by trade, he came to prominence in 1884 by defeating Edward Trickett for the Australian sculling title. In the same year he defeated Edward Hanlon to gain the first of his seven Championships of the World. He retired as unbeaten champion to Dapto. His fisherman's style of rowing with short, jerky strokes and oars plunged deep into the water earned him the title of the Dapto Eel Puncher. Beach used his favourite oars as his lounge room curtain rods. Through his sporting prowess and his integrity and modesty he retained the public's admiration until his death in 1935. On 11 June 1938 a memorial to him was unveiled at Cabarita Park. A rowing regatta was held as part of the unveiling, George Neilson winning the single sculls.SignificanceThe presentation of this souvenir oar trophy at the unveiling of the William Beach Memorial is significant in recognising the prominence of William Beach in Australian and international rowing.
