Call to watch out for a stolen piece of cricket history

Jessica Benton
Thieves have stolen an historic piece of cricket memorabilia from a Point Lonsdale real estate office.
The stolen fob watch was awarded to legendary all-rounder Johnny Mullagh in 1868 after he played 47 matches in England with Australia’s first international team of Aborigines.
Real estate agent Ian Friend said he was devastated to discover the theft from his office.
“It’s such a shame it’s been taken – it’s not something you can reproduce,” Mr Friend said.
“We have had the watch for more than 100 years.
“The significance of this watch is very hard to measure,not only for sport but for the indigenous history of our country.”
The pocket watch was one of the first trophies ever won by an Australian sportsman.
Mullagh, who struggled to read time on watches, eventually swapped his prize for a trophy.
Mr Friend said the watch had been in the possession of his family for five generations.
Mr Friend’s great-great grandfather, Charles Law-rence, was manager, captain and the only white player in the Aboriginal team on the tour of England.
Mr Friend said the thieves broke into his office during Easter long weekend.
“It happened some time on Thursday night or early Friday morning when the office was closed for Good Friday,” he said.
“The thieves got into the safe and took the watch.”
Mr Friend said the thieves also stole cash and a camera.
“I don’t believe they knew what they were taking. However, the watch is pretty well-known historically and through the cricket world,” he said.
“It’s too well known to sell.”
Mr Friend said police were investigating the robbery.
He asked anyone with information to phone him on 0414 581 811.
Mr Friend said the fob watch, if recovered, would go on display at Melbourne Cricket Club.