Ted Lovett facts for kids

Ted Lovett (born 15 February 1941) is a former Australian rules football player. He played for the Fitzroy Lions in the Victorian Football League (VFL). Ted is an Indigenous Australian and has made important contributions both on the field and in his community.

Ted Lovett's Early Life

Ted Lovett was born on February 15, 1941. His father was Alf Egan, who was the first Indigenous player for the Carlton Football Club. Ted's mother, Gertie, was from the Gunditjmara tribe. He grew up in Fitzroy, Victoria.

When Ted was young, he faced many challenges. At age 14, he was made a ward of the state. This meant the government took responsibility for him, even though his family did not want this. For several years, Ted lived in different boys' homes. He found these experiences very difficult.

Playing Australian Rules Football

Ted Lovett was a talented Australian rules footballer. He started his career playing for the North Ballarat. In 1963, he joined the Fitzroy Lions in the VFL. He played two games for Fitzroy that year.

After his first season with Fitzroy, Ted returned to North Ballarat. There, he won his first Henderson Medal. This award is given to the best and fairest player in the Ballarat Football League. He won a second Henderson Medal in 1965. In 1964, Ted played seven more games for Fitzroy.

Helping His Community

After his football career, Ted Lovett dedicated his life to helping his community. In the 1970s, he worked for Aboriginal Affairs. This organization helps Indigenous people with various issues.

Ted played a big part in starting the Ballarat and District Aboriginal Cooperative. This group focuses on improving health, welfare, and community development for Aboriginal people. He also worked with a famous eye doctor named Fred Hollows. Together, they helped many people with their eyesight.

In 2017, Ted Lovett received the Order of Australia Medal. This special award recognized his amazing work and service to the Indigenous community in south-west Victoria.