They might have been the fiercest of foes on the football field but the Tommy Raudonikis and Arthur Beetson will be brothers in arms when they come to Maitland.
The two captains from the first State of Origin will be the guests of honour at the East Maitland Griffins sportsman’s dinner and auction at East Maitland Bowling Club on August 2, where they will talk about the birth of Origin.
The league legends will talk about that first game of Origin football as well as give their perspectives on the game today.
“I knew we couldn’t go wrong with those two,” Griffins coach Mita Wetini said.
“Obviously Tommy’s made a couple of comments lately, which I’m sure will be brought up.
“They’ll take about basically any questions people want to raise.”
Beetson and Raudonikis are renowned as two of the hardest men to play rugby league.
Raudonikis’ earnt his place in rugby league folklore with his tough, uncompromising playing style.
One of the hardest halfbacks to ever play the game, Raudonikis played with Western Suburbs from 1969 until 1979 before playing two seasons with Balmain.
Raudonikis played 22 games for NSW and 20 tests for Australia.
He made headlines in 1997 and 1998 as coach of the NSW Blues for introducing the now infamous cattle dog call where NSW players launching into the Queenslanders with fists flying.
Beetson is arguably the best prop ever.
He was named in Australia’s rugby league team of the century.
Beetson started his career with Balmain in 1966, playing 74 games for them before playing 132 games with Eastern Suburbs before finishing his playing career at Parramatta in 1980.
Beetson represented Australia in 14 tests.
The auction will include NRL jumpers, motorcycle equipment, items from professional bullrider Brendon Clarke and items from Raudonikis and Beetson.
Tickets are $90 and include a two-course meal, beer, wine and soft drink. Tickets are available through the Bank Hotel or by contacting Mita Wetini on 0424 290 723.