Canberra celebrates Eastlake’s history

Article and photo courtesy of Eastlake Football Club

Miller’s book explores the history of Canberra’s oldest Australian Rules Football club, which was founded in 1926, as well as that of Manuka Football Club, which merged with Eastlake in 1991.

Miller’s extensive experience with the club included time as a captain, coach and player between 1978 and 1985.

“It was an absolute privilege to be asked by the Eastlake Board to author this book,” said Keith Miller.

“The book maps out the path of two clubs who created a rich tradition of fierce neighbourhood rivalry for over half a century then found themselves joining forces to survive.

“It is a history that has its origins in the formation of Canberra and parallels the changing economic, social, sporting and demographic development of Canberra.”

Manuka Football Club was formed in 1928 and was a long-time rival of Eastlake before they merged in 1991.

The two clubs were only separated by Manuka Oval and battled each other for six decades, playing 17 Grand Finals against each other and establishing one of the code’s strongest rivalries.

The two clubs shared 32 premierships between them, with Eastlake winning 17 and Manuka 15.

Eastlake provided one of the game’s greatest in Alex Jesaulenko and Manuka produced the power and excitement of Michael Conlan, who was on hand to help launch the book.

Miller said the book was a tribute to everyone who had contributed to the success of both clubs.

“The book is dedicated to every player, coach, committee member, volunteer and supporter who has travelled that journey and created our history,” Miller said.

“Canberra is 100 years old. These people have played an important part in 86 of those years.”

For those interested in buying a copy of the book please contact Eastlake Football Club on 0262280999.