Born in eastern Scotland, Gil Butchart moved with his family to Australia while still a youngster. Settling in Mount Gambier, he soon showed an aptitude for Australian football, and at the age of just fifteen made his senior debut for West Gambier. Three years later, in 1966, he was recruited by Norwood, where he soon became a regular player, tending to be used wherever the team needed bolstering. A strong, confident, no frills footballer, he was perhaps best suited to centre half back, although he also played many fine games at centre half forward, particularly in his club best and fairest award-winning year of 1969. Butchart continued to give good service to the Redlegs until 1974, which ironically was the season before the club broke through for a long overdue premiership. He played 152 SANFL games.


*Courtesy of John Devaney at www.fullpointsfooty.net

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