Ainslie lost a great friend and passionate contributor when Bruce passed away on Sunday 4th October after a short illness, aged 86 .
Bruce first came to Canberra in 1964 with the Army and soon became involved with the AFC, initially as a player. His early achievements included membership of the 1968 and 1969 Reserve Grade premiership sides.
After some years overseas service with the Army, Bruce returned to Ainslie and commenced what was to become more than 20 years in various capacities with the Board of the AFC. This included two terms as President (1981-1985 and 1994-1996). He was awarded Life Membership in 1986.
Bruce was not afraid of hard work. Even as President, he was often seen sweeping out the sheds after training or carting gear to and from the carpark. He also had high personal standards and he expected others to behave in a manner that reflected well on the Club and on themselves. If he saw something going on that he thought was not good enough, he was prepared to call it out and tell the person to ‘lift your game’.
Bruce was always ready to look out for players who may have been new to Canberra and needed some support, or a player who might be struggling with injury or personal issues. We are sure there were many occasions where his wife, Helen, was asked to set an extra place at the dinner table.
Bruce continued to attend Ainslie games for many years after his retirement from the Board and he also attended the AFC Past Players and Officials lunches (formerly Ainslie Vet Lunches ) until very recently.
Apart from Ainslie, Bruce’s other great football love was for Collingwood Football Club. This passion was often combined with Bruce’s other great love, a cold beer, either celebrating or drowning the sorrows of the Collywobble journey.
In Ainslie’s 100 years there have been few who have contributed as much, yet sought nothing in return.
Bruce and Helen were together for close to 60 years before her passing in 2022. Bruce is survived by his son Kelvin, his daughter Linda and their families.
Thank you to great friends Greg “Smacka” Ryan and Martin Smith for penning this tribute together on their great mate Brucey.