Locked away safely in a cupboard of his and wife Leanne’s Mount View home was a white Kookaburra brand football signed by the Goannas’ first, second and third grade teams from 1977.

Ken said that after sitting 40 years in the cupboard he had decided to donate the ball to the Goannas for the club’s 40th reunion of their 1977 premiership.

“When I saw the article with Dave Woodbury looking for memorabilia I knew I had to give it to the club,” he said.

“It’s a white Kookaburra ball and there are a few tinges of yellow coming through, but considering it’s 40 years old it’s in remarkable condition.”

Ken and Dave caught up on Tuesday and the ball was handed over with plans to put it on permanent display.

Ken said he still had fond memories of the grand final.

“My wife and I were still engaged at the time and we had gone to the grand final with friends,” he said.

“A couple of my mates were playing with the Goannas so we wanted to support them.

“It was a great day and everyone wanted to continue the celebrations.

“We ended up going out to the Millfield Ex-Servicemen’s Clubs for the party after the game.

“The ball, which had been signed by the Cessnock first, second and third grade teams was the major prize in the lucky door prize and I ended up winning it.”

Ken and Leanne were married two months later in October and the ball found a home in the cupboard of the home they brought together.

The Goannas are holding the 40th anniversary reunion of the 1977 premiership team at the Cessnock Leagues Club on August 19. Tickets are on sale at the leagues club reception.

If you have any images, film or memorabilia from the 1977 season or grand final contact David Woodbury on 0408 905 607.

Goannas on hunt for 1977 premiership history