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Herbert Henry (Dally) Messenger (1883–1959)

One of Australia's greatest Rugby League players, Dally Messenger, died in Gunnedah Hospital today.

Messenger, 76, was admitted to Gunnedah Hospital last week, after a heart attack.

He had suffered two heart attacks and began to improve, but the hot weather caused a relapse, and he died shortly after its onset.

Messenger was a centre three-quarter, and was one of Australia's most dominant Rugby players. He attracted great crowds with his brilliance, and both codes have seen few footballers like him since.

The president of the Rugby League, Mr. Harry "Jersey" Flegg, said to-day he felt very deeply about the passing of his old club-mate.

"Dally was a wonderful player and I doubt if we will see one as brilliant again," Mr. Flegg said.

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'Messenger, Herbert Henry (Dally) (1883–1959)', Obituaries Australia, National Centre of Biography, Australian National University, https://oa.anu.edu.au/obituary/messenger-herbert-henry-dally-7562/text35266, accessed 12 May 2025.

© Copyright Obituaries Australia, 2010-2025

Life Summary [details]

Birth

12 April, 1883
Balmain, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Death

24 November, 1959 (aged 76)
Gunnedah, New South Wales, Australia

Cause of Death

heart disease

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