IT’S been almost 50 years since Mike Lowther took on timekeeping duties for Golden Square Football Netball Club.
Mike’s association with the Bulldogs goes way back to his childhood days.
The Lowther family lived not far from the Wade Street ground and Golden Square was the club they supported.
“I have been a Bulldogs’ supporter, and the mighty Melbourne Demons, for a long time,” Mike said.
His timekeeping stint for Square began in the early 70s.
“I was at a club game down at Castlemaine and was asked by then club secretary Colin Pinal about timekeeping for the reserves,” Mike recalled.
“I had a go and have stayed doing so.”
After being the reserves timekeeper for several years, Mike then moved up to the seniors.
“Taking the mantle of the senior (and inter-league) timekeeper from the club’s first timekeeper, Jack Harper was a huge honour,” Mike said.
There have been plenty of highlights.
“I have proudly watched family members play football and netball for the club,” Mike said.
“And there have been many finals and grand final victories over the years.”
In the 70s, Golden Square claimed the Bendigo Advertiser premiership cup in ’72, ’75, ’76 and ’79.
The club was the league’s top dog again in ’88, ’89 and then endured a lean run until the grand final win of 2001.
Five premierships from 2009 to 2013 is Square’s greatest run and Mike was keeping time in all those games.
Not only has Mike watched great teams, but many league greats star for the blue and gold.
“Over such a long time there have been a lot of great players,” Mike said.
In no particular order some of the best Mike has seen dominate for Square include Peter Moroni, Ron Best, Tony Southcombe, Simon Rosa, Matt O’Toole, Greg Williams, Ray Byrne, Neville and Dean Strauch, Grant Weeks, Alan Patterson, Shane Rodda, Peter Davey, Matt Compston and Adam Baird.
“The short answer to that question, too many to mention,” said Mike.
He also took great delight in watching his brother, Ray and nephew Brendan star in the ruck for the Bulldogs.
Not only has Mike dedicated hours at clubland, but also to Fresh fm radio, 101.5, and also at Bendigo Tramways as a driver and conductor.
He’s been at the microphone to host Saturday morning and midweek sports shows, the Bendigo Athletics show, and also done Breakfast, Afternoon, and 70s Music Show stints.
In recent years, Mike has also hosted live best and fairest vote counts for the Heathcote DFNL, and Loddon Valley FNL on Fresh fm.
Although not on the field, Mike said there is a “team aspect” for volunteers at all clubs and the radio station.
Written by Nathan Dole.