Noel Allanson was acknowledged for his all-round sporting skills and dedication off the field, when he was inducted in to the Essendon Hall of Fame on Saturday night.

As a player, he was a solid defender and centreman whose career coincided with a golden era for the club. 

He made his debut for the Bombers in 1947 and played alongside some of football’s greatest players.

“My career was modest, but to play with Dick Reynolds, Bill Hutchison and John Coleman – I couldn’t believe it,” Allanson said. 

“And they turned out to be great blokes too.”

Allanson was also a brilliant cricketer and represented Victoria during the summer of 1956/57.

Ken Fraser reflected on Allanson’s playing career and also his service off the field.

Allanson was Vice President of the club in 1976 and 1977 and was Treasurer from 1978 to early 1991. 

“He was close-checking, disciplined and played a straight bat as a footballer, cricketer and treasurer,” Fraser said. 

Years Played: 1947-51

Games: 57

Goals: 1

Premiership: 1950

Vice president:  1976-1977

Treasurer: 1978-1991