Page 72 - History of Parkside Football Club (1897-2017) Editied Version Completed_optimized

Parkside Football Club 1897/2017

The 1941 FDFL Grand Final

It was no surprise that in times of war, nations try to maintain their own defence industries. I.C.I.
(Deer Parks) which was the most important commercial manufacturer of high explosives in Australia,
contributed to wartime production in ammunition, initiators and the development of synthetic
ammonia production and construction of the Defence Explosives during World War Two. National
dependence on the defence forces and military industry coincided with the establishment of the
Deer Park as dominant force within FDFL, winning premierships in 1939, 1940 and 1941.

Kevin Hillier puts out that,

“ICI Deer Park had taken over from Parkside as the dominant club in the competition. World War
Two was having a huge effect on all levels of society. Clubs were finding it difficult to field teams;
Sunshine District went into recess and West Spotswood withdrew, as did West Footscray and CSR.

This was a time when other matters took precedence over sport, and the Western and Yarraville
ovals were garrisoned with anti-aircraft batteries, as Footscray was seen to be a highly likely target
of enemy air raids in the event of invasion. Housing was scarce, ethnic tension was a real issue and
the economy was far from healthy.

The 1940 B Grade Premier, South Footscray, was promoted to A Grade and Sunshine Districts re-
joined the League along with a new club in Newport CYMS. Combine disbanded during the season
and ICI became the first team to win back to back flags in A Grade, before going into recess.

Only six clubs competed in the 1942 season in each grade but three new teams joined the Under 18s;
St. Thomas (from Moonee Ponds), Yarraville Socials and Parkside. West Footscray returned to A
Grade after winning the 1941 B Grade flag. Essendon Thirds replaced Newport in B Grade. Kingsville
and Seddon were elevated and Combine reorganised and re-entered the competition along with
Yarraville Socials.”

Parkside Football Club was committed to survive through that difficult time and was looking forward
to the future, and feeling grateful for the past.

1940 Preliminary Final

“I. C.I. meets Parksides in the final which will be played on the Footscray oval. A big crowd is
expected to see a good even match, but after the way in which I.C.I. finished on last week, the
indications are that I.C.I. will be the team to meet North Footscray for the premiership next week.
I.C.I. have practically a full list for this match.

Supporters' bus will leave Sunshine post office at approximately 2.20 p.m.”

Sunshine Advocate, 6 September 1940

Once a Parksider, Always a Parksider