Oldest Wallaby remembers historic Eden Park win over All Blacks

Don Strachan, now 97 years old, holds the distinction of being the oldest living Australian rugby union player. In 1955, at the age of 26, the then 8-foot prop was part of the Australian team that suffered an 8–3 defeat to New Zealand at Eden Park, Auckland. Strachan, a front rower, made his mark in this match, overcoming personal adversity, including a near-fatal motorbike accident in 1947.

Despite the Wallabies' defeat, Strachan remembers the victory as one of the finest by the Australian team, a sentiment echoed by a local newspaper at the time who dubbed it as such. Strachan, hailing from Orange in New South Wales, was adamant about the win, stating, 'We were determined to win that game.' The All Blacks retained the Bledisloe Cup following their victories in the subsequent matches, but for Strachan, the memory of that 1955 game remains cherished.

He reflected, 'I wouldn't have wished for anything else. I've been lucky… I've had a great time.' Strachan's journey to rugby began amidst adversity; a motorbike crash nearly cost him his leg, but his determination saw him build strength through daily activities such as lifting 1,000 bags of potatoes. His resilience extended to his rugby career, where he played with dedication and fairness.

After retiring from international rugby, Strachan became a captain and representative for NSW Waratahs, and even captain of the Combined NSW Country side. The Orange Emus, a club he co-founded, went on to become one of the most successful rugby clubs in the Central West Rugby Union competition, winning 17 first-grade titles. The Orange Emus' success was partly funded through unconventional means, including rabbit drives, demonstrating the club's resourcefulness.

The local rugby club's legacy is a testament to Strachan's and his teammates' passion for the sport.