It was 1989, and chaplaincy was very new. Now he is back, complementing his former role in a new capacity, as chaplain to the Past and Present Players’ and Officials’ Association.
It is familiar territory for Burnham, but this was not the case back in the late 1980s, when it was an innovative path being put in place.
‘We thought it would be good to approach some AFL coaches, and CEOs, with a view to providing chaplaincy as a model to AFL clubs, and Melbourne was one of the first.’
Burnham had had a short association with John Northey, as both hail from Ballarat, and so ‘I presented my CV and my credentials to John, and after a little while, he said ‘yes’.’
It was the beginning of an ongoing and much loved connection to the Melbourne Football Club.
‘I came on board in 1989, and because of other work commitments, particularly parish responsibilities, I had to resign my position in 1996 - at the end of the 1996 season.’
Current day chaplain Cam Butler took over in the role, meaning that Melbourne has only ever had two chaplains.
The return of Paul Burnham to the fold took place courtesy of the enthusiasm and push of Chris Connolly.
‘Chris sort of put the idea to me, because he knew I was back in town. I went over to the Junction Oval one day, and we got talking. Eventually, this role evolved from that, from some discussion, and Chris’ creativity and enthusiasm. I jumped at it, because, being recently retired, I thought ‘this is a good thing to do’, and so here we are.’
Officially in the role for just over a month, serving as chaplain to the Past and Present Players’ and Officials’ Association, Paul has not been lacking for activity.
‘I think I’ve made over twenty contacts, and made some visits, and it’s been really interesting to listen to the stories, and share the journeys of some of our past players and officials. While the role needs to be refined a bit, it’s been really well received.’
Once again, Burnham believes that Melbourne is a chaplaincy pioneer.
‘My understanding is that Melbourne is the first AFL club to appoint a past players and alumni chaplain or welfare and benevolence person. I’m quite sure that AFL club CEOs and other people are involved in doubling up and checking on past players and other people, but I think it’s just an expectation that’s too high.’
Intertwined with the story and lives at the Melbourne Football Club as he is, Burnham is happy with the role.
‘I love doing it. I’m a history buff myself, and I’ve written my memoirs, so when I sit and listen to people, they’re over the moon about someone who is interested in them - interested in the past. They understand that the present and future are important, but for us to acknowledge that what they have done for the Club in the past is valued, and for the Club to appoint a person who can spend time with them - they think it’s great.’
Far from having any spare time when his Melbourne duties subside, Burnham is also a police chaplain, and a trained army chaplain.
‘I served in the Reserve in Sydney, so I’ve had wide experience, but the most intriguing thing is that I actually started and finished my chaplaincy role with John Northey. When I went to Ballarat in my last parish ministry, lo and behold, after a few years, John turns up as the coach of Ballarat Swans. He found out that I was in town, and came and asked me ‘Rev, do you want to go round one more time?’ So, we caught up again, and in our third year - which was actually my last year in Ballarat - we won that premiership by few points, and the goal was kicked after the siren. John and I won a premiership together - that was delightful!’
Football has been a constant thread in Burnham’s life.
‘Wherever I’ve gone, I’ve been involved in footy chaplaincy. When I left Melbourne, I became involved in TAC - Eastern Ranges for three years, and then I had three years with the TAC - Ballarat Rebels. Anthony Rock was the coach of Ballarat Rebels during that time. I’ve had rich experiences all the way through, and it was great to be able to spend six years with young players, and to be able to mentor those young men - not in the area of football, but in development of life. Now, here I am, at the other end of the scale. I’ve come from the young kids, and now I’m with the ‘oldies’!’
Of course, Burnham realises that the younger past player generation is on his doorstep, and those with whom he dealt as players are very close to him in his new role.
Having received a letter from current President Jim Stynes that expressed appreciation of Burnham’s contribution to his life, Burnham is, always has been, and will continue to be, humbly dedicated to caring about and for the Melbourne Football Club and its people.
