Vale Adrian O'Brien and Kevin Hallinan

Remembered with Pride

Woodend Hesket Football Netball Club mourns the passing of two men who were part of one of the most celebrated chapters in our club's history - Adrian O'Brien and Kevin Hallinan, both members of the 1954 Woodend Football Club Premiership side.

Kevin Hallinan served as captain-coach of the Woodend Football Club in the mid-1950s, leading the club with distinction before moving on to other local sporting commitments. He passed away peacefully on 5 June 2026 at St Catherine's, Wangaratta, aged 96. Always in the hearts of his family and all who knew him.

Adrian Francis O'Brien passed away on 13 June 2026, aged 92. Beloved husband of Nola for 66 years, loving father of Elizabeth and Tony (dec), proud grandfather and great-grandfather to a family that spans generations. He is survived by those who loved him dearly and remembered by a club that is grateful he was one of ours.

Both men were part of a team that did something extraordinary in 1954.

According to Jim Godden - himself a member of that premiership side - the 1954 Grand Final win was sensational. He recalls running out onto the ground feeling as though his feet weren't even touching the turf. In the semi-finals, Woodend were written off as underdogs against hot favourites Sunbury but won convincingly at Lancefield to set up a Grand Final showdown against Trentham. Trentham had travelled through the season undefeated. Woodend were not expected to prevail.

They did.

Final Score: Woodend 10.8 (68) defeated Trentham 6.5 (41)

Adrian O'Brien kicked a goal on the day. Kevin Hallinan led the team onto the ground as captain.

The Woodend 1954 Premiership Team: Back Row: G. Olden, J. Haig, B. Barker, W. Taylor, R. Cogan, S. Morris Third Row: R. Robinson, E. Gorry, G. Fox, H. Mumford, D. Lowrie, A. Howden, F. Miller, J. Springfield Second Row: J. Marcroft, J. Shiels, G. Brown, G. Clarke, C. O'Conner (Vice President), R. Barker, D. Barker, A. O'Brien, J. Godden Front Row (left to right): P. Barker, K. Hallinan (Captain), F. Parker (Vice Captain), W. King (President), W. Wilson (Secretary), C. Bowen, R. Hepburn, L. O'Brien, G. Miller (with ball)

To the families of Adrian and Kevin - thank you for sharing them with this club. They were part of something special in 1954, and they will not be forgotten.

Rest in peace, Adrian and Kevin.