Eric Robinson, Redfern, NSW— The Redfern community is in mourning following the passing of rugby legend Eric Robinson, who died on November 14, 2024, at the age of 82. Known affectionately as ‘Ecca,’ Eric’s contributions to the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the wider Rugby League community have left an indelible mark.
Eric Robinson was a prominent figure in Australian Rugby League, having played 67 grade games for the South Sydney Rabbitohs, including 42 first grade matches, between 1960 and 1964. He debuted as a first-grade player in 1961 against Eastern Suburbs at the Sydney Sports Ground. His talent and skill were quickly recognized, and he went on to score a hat-trick of tries in his first season, a testament to his extraordinary abilities.
Born in 1942 in Hillston, New South Wales, Eric was a proud Bundjalung man who became a trailblazer for Indigenous athletes in the sport. His legacy in Rugby League was solidified when he was awarded Life Membership by the South Sydney Football Club in 2003.
Eric’s influence stretched across generations, with his son Ricky Walford, a former first-grade player for Easts, Norths, and St George, and his grandsons, Nathan Merritt and twins Travis and Reece Robinson, each making their mark in Rugby League. Eric’s life and legacy were shaped by his deep connections to the Redfern community, where he spent much of his life, and as an honorary Elder of the Babana Aboriginal Men’s Group.
Throughout his career, Eric played for several clubs, including Maitland, Brisbane Wests, and Bourke, and represented Western Division in the 1970 Caltex New South Wales Country Championships. He later returned to his roots at the Redfern All Blacks in the late 1970s, where he continued to inspire others with his athleticism and dedication to the sport.
In remembrance of Eric’s passing, a fundraiser has been created by Joseph Medcalf Funerals to assist with funeral expenses. The community has rallied together to honor a man whose impact extended far beyond the football field.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Eric Robinson’s family during this difficult time.
Short Summary of Eric Robinson
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Eric Robinson |
| Date of Passing | November 14, 2024 |
| Fundraiser Created By | Joseph Medcalf Funerals |
| Goal Amount | $40,000 AUD |
| Location | Redfern, NSW |
| Purpose | Funeral expenses |
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