Bert Barnes

Recruited from local feeder club Richmond Districts, Bert Barnes was a mature-age forward who earned his opportunity during the player shortages of the First World War era. He made his debut late in the 1915 season at 25 years of age, immediately showing an aptitude for the level by hitting the scoreboard. Barnes proved efficient near the big sticks, booting a respectable four goals across his three senior appearances, which included matches during the depleted four-team competition of 1916. While his VFL career was fleeting, he played a serviceable role for the Tigers during a period when fielding a consistent 18 was a weekly challenge, eventually drifting back to local football after his brief stint at Punt Road.