Photo: Bernie Seymour (right) with family members. Photo: Men of League
Manly Warringah Sea Eagles were saddened to hear of the passing today of former player and respected long serving official Bernie Seymour, aged 84.
A tough forward, Bernie played 45 first grade games for the Sea Eagles from 1954-63 and was the 98th player to represent the club. He was the first person to play 200 grade games for Manly.
Manly’s greatest administrator, Ken Arthurson, led the tributes for Bernie.
“Bernie was a great servant of the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles as a player, committee man, and selector, and was as passionate as any person that has been involved with the club over a very long period of time,’’ Mr Arthurson said.
“He was a tireless worker on the field and off it for his beloved Sea Eagles. I offer my condolences to his family who have been staunch supporters of our great club.”
Co-patron of the Sea Eagles, Kerry Sibraa, also paid tribute to Bernie.
“Bernie Seymour was a Manly legend in every sense. He was a player, selector, administrator and committee member. He was the embodiment of what it means to be a "Clubman". He was also a great character - always joking around and making us laugh,’’ Mr Sibraa said.
“Manly was Bernie's life. When he received his Life Membership of the Manly-Warringah Rugby League Football Club in 1985 he said "if it wasn't for the Club I'd still be getting into trouble at the Steyne (Hotel)".
“When I was President of the Senate, I had the privilege of hosting the then Manly Committee (Board) at the new Parliament House. Bernie loved the visit and took great pleasure in inspecting everything closely before pronouncing loudly that he now knew where his tax dollars were going.
“On behalf of a grateful Club, we thank Bernie for a lifetime of service and dedication. We pass on our sincere condolences to his family.”
The Sea Eagles pass on their condolences to Bernie’s children, Michele, Joanne, and Scott, and their families.
