As Hawthorn continues to make its assault on Collingwood's treasured record of four successive flags, it seems only fitting that one player's Premiership medallions from those four triumphs have made their way back to the club.
Bob Makeham was one of the quiet achievers of the legendary Machine teams that won premierships in 1927, 1928, 1929 and 1930. He was one of only 12 players to play in all four of those triumphs, and he had a major influence in each.
A scrupulously fair player and one of the longest punt kicks in the game, the versatile Makeham played in attack, defence and sometimes as a follower. He was a Mr Reliable of the team and rarely missed a match – remarkable durability for one who lived in the country his whole career, coming down from his farm at Woodleigh on Thursday nights and heading back home on Sunday mornings.
Learn the story of Bob Makeham on forever.collingwoodfc.com.au now.
He starred in the 1927 premiership in horrible conditions, and was even better in the come-from-behind victory over Geelong in 1930, with many critics rating him the best player on the ground.
Earlier this year his family decided to donate his four Premiership medallions, and two other long service medallions, back to the footy club.
“We’re proud of Bob and everything he achieved at Collingwood," said his great nephew, Paul Makeham. "And we’re thrilled that his Premiership medals are now back at the club where they belong, so everyone can enjoy them and remember him as the great player he was.”
Collingwood's History and Archives Manager, Michael Roberts, said the club was thrilled to have Makeham's collection back in club hands.
"The Machine holds a special place in the hearts of all Magpie fans, and it's wonderful to have all four medals belonging to one player – especially in this year.
"It also gives us the chance to pay tribute to a guy who, while he didn't enjoy the profile of the Coventrys or Colliers, was still a great player who made an immense contribution to each of those Premierships.
"We can't thank his family enough for their generous donation. The medals will be a prized part of our collection."
Bob Makeham's medals are on display in the foyer at the Holden Centre as part of a new exhibition honouring the Machine team. Photo: Collingwood Media.
If you have any items you would like to donate to Collingwood, please contact our Archives team at archives@collingwoodfc.com.au or (03) 9415 9250.