Anthony “Chook” Schweitzer (centre) with Shane Chivers and John Ross
Situated at the opposite end of the field from Wondall Road, the Wynnum Manly Rugby League Pig Pen has taken on many transformations over the past 40 years. It is the place where local Wynnum Manly supporters gather to sink back a few tinnies and cheer on their mighty Wynnum Manly Seagulls.
One of the games great characters Anthony “Chook” Schweitzer was instrumental in raising the voices of supporters in this enclosed area. Anthony standing at 6 foot 8 inches, had the ability due to his height to reach the advertising signage that appeared above ground level and utilise it as a belting board, to have the crowd churning out all the famous Wynnum war cries and chants.
Who will ever forget when Chook dared another well known Wynnum supporter ”Rolley” if he missed the caged bin (crab pot), which was for the empty cans once more he would be put into it, of course Rolley missed and Chook picked him up and in he went, the crowd went up like Wynnum had scored their third try in five minutes.
Going to the pen is an event that many locals looked forward to during those winter months.
The plaque placed on the tree in the Chook Pen with Anthony’s details and the story behind the man known as Chook.
Anthony “Chook” Schweitzer’s time on this earth unfortunately ended in July of 1997 after he was involved in a tragic road accident, which took his young life. More than 900 people filled the Wynnum Guardian Angels Catholic Church overflowing for the funeral.
Thus, was his popularity the 1982 premiership side got together to pay tribute to the great man when Wynnum took on Souths in the Queensland Cup match held at Kougari Oval. The flag in the pen was a half mast as the club acknowledged the passing of Tony.
A group of Wynnum Manly supporters and friends including Shane Chivers, Brian McDonald, Jimmy Parker, Steve O’Conner, David Tregear, John Ross, Paul Allingham and Alan Evans came up with the idea to change the name of the current Pig Pen to the “Chook Pen’”.
This group contacted Wynnum Manly Old Boys President Brendon ‘Spike’’ Nolan, CEO Graham Smith and Football Club President Bob McMullen for approval, which was given the rubber stamp immediately. Steve Towers from Signmart organised and donated the signage.
In honour of Tony the pen was now to be named “The Chook Pen” due to his efforts in supporting the Wynnum Manly Seagulls. The club and supporters also placed a plaque within a tree stump, with Anthony’s details and the story behind the man known as ‘Chook’.
The Chook Pen as we know it today
Story Source: Paul Comber
Photo Sources: Shane Chivers & The Wynnum Manly Rugby League Football Club
