Phillip was well known throughout the football community over many years for his tireless promotion of football though his playing career with Fernhill Football Club, journalistic prowess writing for the Illawarra Mercury and his continued contribution to the IFA judiciary for several years.

An honorary life member of the Illawarra Referees Association, Phil (better known under his writing alias of ‘Big-ears’) has contributed so much over time, it is incalculable, and his legacy will be long remembered to the entire football community.

In 2014, Phil was was added to the Australian Football Roll of Honour for his remarkable career.

To his wife Bernie and the extended family, we express our sincere condolences currently and our thoughts and prayers go out to everyone who is mourning his passing.

We should remember that Phil lived life to the full and irrespective of his declining health, he always found time to talk and support his friends and family. He will be sadly missed by the broader football community and everyone at Football South Coast

Philip’s funeral and celebration of his life will be on Monday 24 December from 12.00pm at Hanson and Cole (Kembla Grange).