Charlie Utting

Born and bred in the suburb, Charlie Utting was the definition of a Collingwood local, rising through the ranks of St Joseph’s College and the Collingwood Juniors to debut during the lean war years of 1943. The nephew of former Magpie Ern Utting, Charlie initially found his place as a versatile utility, plugging gaps in the back pocket, on the flank, or as a rover. A nuggety and tenacious operator, he was renowned for his elite fitness and desperate attack on the football, often making up for his lack of height (170cm) with sheer aggression and a refusal to yield possession.

Utting's career trajectory shifted dramatically in 1949 when injuries to key midfielders saw him thrust into the centre. He seized the opportunity, transforming into one of the league's premier ball-winners with his long drop kicks and unrelenting pressure. His final season in 1950 was his masterpiece; he represented Victoria and claimed the Copeland Trophy as the club’s best and fairest. However, in a shock to the faithful, he retired at just 27 to focus on his family’s motor wrecking business. He remained a devoted servant of the Magpies, later coaching the reserves and eventually serving as the Mayor of Collingwood, cementing his legacy as a true pillar of the black and white community.