Fred Brophy's boxing tent, last of a dying breed

[bob10]

Fred's niece worked at the Brighton Junior Rugby League Club many years ago. So, Fred's circus came to Brighton, set up at the Brighton Hotel. All the likely lads stepped up to the mark, fuelled by XXXX, and a good time was had by all. I think the reward for beating Fred's men was $20, and to everyone's surprise, a few of the local boys knocked out Fred's men. [ that seemed the only way to beat them, as Fred was the referee] This was Saturday night, the local winners turned up for the Sunday session to get their winnings, and drink them out. However, in the middle of the night, Fred's tents had been pulled down, packed away, and they did the midnight flit. Rumour has it owing the Hotel a lot of money, all their crew drank on the tab, and they were very good drinkers. I'd like to think that was true, because it makes a better story, the only person upset was the Publican, but no one liked him anyway, everyone thought it was a great lark. Now when grey haired gents gather, all they have to do is say " remember when Brophy's boxing tent came to town " , to get a good laugh. Memories...…

Last Woman Standing - The New York Times (https://www.nytimes.com/2018/08/01/world/australia/brophy-boxing-troupe-queensland.html?emc=edit_mbau_20180802&nl=&nlid=8453466920180802&te=1)