Life Blood of the Club - Gil Turner
Gil Turner - SMJFC Life Member
Gil Turner is a Life Member of the South Mandurah Junior Football Club who played a vital role in shaping the club during its earliest stages and has left a lasting impact.
When asked how his journey with the South Mandurah Junior Football Club began, Gil traces it back to the early 1980s. In 1982 and 1983, he played for the senior club while also running junior player clinics on Saturday mornings, continuing to invest in the next generation. Gil’s connection to the club deepened years later in 1996, when his son Shaun began playing junior football. This drew Gil back into a more hands-on role, and his involvement quickly grew. He started as a coach and committee member in 1996, before stepping into leadership positions as Vice President from 1997 to 1998, and then President from 1999 to 2001. These years would prove pivotal for both Gil and the club.
Looking back on the people who helped shape his experience, Gil fondly remembers names such as Brett Ticehurst, Radar Lutteral, Vicky Senior, Sheryl Coates, Julie Ayres, Jack Smith, Julie Rees and Drew Bathgate. These individuals played an important role alongside Gil in building the club community. When asked about his best moments, Gil’s answers reflect both the highs and the deeper meaning of junior sport. He recalls the Under-16s reaching consecutive grand finals as moments of immense pride, despite the results. Just as meaningful to Gil was the growth of the inaugural Under-10 side, which began with only four players and developed into a full team, marking a significant milestone with the inclusion of the club’s first female players, Bonny McTosh and Louise Jones.
However, not every moment was easy. When discussing the challenges during his time, Gil points to the difficult period when the club split, leading to the formation of the Halls Head Junior Football Club. It was, as he describes, far from a smooth transition that fuelled an arch-rivalry between the two sides south of the bridge. On a more personal level, he also recalls the hardship of seeing his son suffer broken bones during his playing days, serving as a brutal reminder of the physical and emotional realities of Australian rules football.
When asked what advice he would pass on to others looking to get involved in junior football, Gil emphasised the need to approach things with an open mind. For him, junior football has always been about the kids, and not the individuals behind the scenes. Gil’s philosophy carries through when he reflects on what makes a strong junior football club. In his view, success comes down to engaged parents and quality coaches who are committed to creating a positive environment where young players can thrive and enjoy the game.
Finally, when asked about the best player he saw come through the ranks, Gil distinctly mentions Blair Bell. He was a standout talent who left a lasting impression at the club and has since won multiple WAFL premierships as a legend of Peel Thunder.
Ultimately, Gil Turner’s story is one of dedication, leadership, and genuine care for the next generation of young footballers. His contributions have helped shape a club and community, making him a truly deserving Life Member who has had a significant impact on the South Mandurah Junior Football Club.
Interview and Article by
Kevan Waters (SMJFC Life Member) & Jack Christian-Waters (SMJFC Junior)
