This was especially the case leading into the weekend’s encounter with Gold Coast. It all started early for a select group of supporters, who took up a special offer to have their photo taken with Flower in his rare Club blazer, and - in an even more select auction opportunity - to have their photo taken on the MCG with him.
Adding to the charm of the occasion, it was Flower’s birthday - and he was typically enthusiastic, saying ‘I really enjoy being able to share with Melbourne supporters, and talk to them about their love of the Club. There are some great stories out there!’ Given the gestures on the part of some of the assembled groups, the memories and stories of Flower spinning down the MCG wing were alive and well, treasured as much as the personal memorabilia and the supplied caps and photographs.
From the Harrison Room and a delighted rendition of ‘Happy Birthday’, accompanied by cake, it was onto the MCG for the lucky few, with young and old alike in awe of the soaring stands and velvet green turf, always at its best and most pristine in that hour before a game. Photographs were taken, more signing done, and then the exercise was complete, with the images - also to be signed by Flower and supplied in a presentation folder - sure to make special birthday or Fathers’ Day gifts.
Following the success of this exercise, and of the Ron Barassi photo shoot in 2011, there is sure to be another special opportunity in 2013. Stay tuned and see who you can get your photo taken with next season!
