The Cumberland Throw is saddened to hear about the passing of Eels legend, Barry “Bowser” Rushworth.

Hailing from Lithgow, Rushworth arrived at Parra in 1964 after returning from the 1963/64 Kangaroo tour.

Back in those days, the Kangaroo tour would depart in early September and return in late January. On that tour Barry played in 19 of the whopping 36 tour matches, ultimately making his test debut at centre and scoring a try in the Kangaroos 16 to 8 victory over France.

Little time for a holiday or a preseason back then. And don’t forget, the players all had jobs in those days.

From the early days of his career, Rushworth earned the reputation of being one of rugby league’s elite centres. In addition to his Australian jersey, Barry also represented Western Division, Country, City and NSW.

With such individual achievements, Bowser became a household name amongst the Blue and Gold faithful. He made 140 appearances from 1964 – 1971, scoring 25 tries. Most of those games were at centre, though he did play 18 matches on the wing and one match at fullback.

Barry Rushworth crosses for a try on the Kangaroo tour

Billy Richards, current President of the Blue and Gold Alliance (Former Eels Players and Officials) and former Eels team mate paid this tribute to Barry:

“Barry was a tough competitor who never took a step backward. He had a good turn of speed which helped him slice through gaps and beat his opponents. Importantly, he was a lovely guy off the field, always willing to help improve other players’ games and offer advice.”

After retiring from first grade footy at the end of 1971 and returning to the bush, “Bowser” still had one more career highlight to achieve. That came when he was a member of the 1974 Western Division team which famously won the Midweek Amco Cup, beating more high profile teams  through the knock out series, and then the Panthers (6-2) in the Cup final.

Barry in action for Parra

Off the field, Rushworth spent a number of decades in the hotel industry, where his generous spirit was demonstrated via his support for community sports teams. Throughout that time, his love of the Eels continued.

From my personal perspective, name Barry Rushworth was spoken in revered tones in our Parra supporter household. When my father worked for Marley (and Monier) carting concrete blocks and later driving agitator trucks, Barry was driving out of the same depot. A day at work with Dad presented the opportunity for me to meet Barry and it’s one of my favourite childhood Parra memories.

My personal photo of Ray Price, Barry Rushworth and Billy Richards at the BGA reunion

Around fifty years later, I again met Barry at a BGA reunion where I had the honour of grabbing some photos for their socials. I have these two photos as a memento of that day.

Another personal BGA photo – Dave Liddiard, Troy Campbell, Ray Price and Barry Rushworth

In 2027 we will be reflecting back on the Eels 80 years of history, and looking to thank those who dug the well. Make no mistake Barry Rushworth is one of those men. The Eels rightly ensured such recognition of his outstanding contribution to the club by inducting him into the Hall of Fame in 2007.

On behalf of The Cumberland Throw I’d like to extend our sympathies to Barry’s family, friends and loved ones, and of course his former team mates. He will forever be Eels player number 225.

Craig Hawkins (Sixties)

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