Stuart Magee

Born in Belfast, Northern Ireland, Stuart Magee arrived in Australia as a child under the "Ten Pound Pom" scheme and settled in Melbourne's western suburbs. Despite his soccer background, he was discovered by South Melbourne legend Bob Skilton while playing local footy in Altona and was quickly recruited to the Lake Oval. He debuted for South Melbourne in 1962, establishing himself as a tireless rover and centreman who combined high stamina with excellent ball-winning ability. His form was strong enough to earn state selection for Victoria in 1966, but a falling out with the coaching staff saw his time at South Melbourne end abruptly in the middle of the 1968 season.

Magee crossed to Footscray, where he truly cemented his legacy. Renowned for his professional approach to fitness—often running extra laps while teammates headed for the showers—he became a key leader at the Western Oval. In 1970, he was handed the captaincy following the legendary Ted Whitten, a significant honour for the former Swan. That same year, he skippered the Bulldogs to a Night Premiership victory. Magee played 132 games for the club, serving as a hardworking on-baller and respected leader until his retirement from the VFL in 1975, after which he moved west to captain-coach Swan Districts in the WAFL.