Australian Tour, Brave Fencing

The billet problem (especially in Melbourne) and the fact that most of the universities were still in session detracted from an otherwise successful tour.

Brisbane proved the most enjoyable city with Queensland University in the throes of capping. The journey to Brisbane was extended by 14 hours when the train was delayed by floods.

The team (12 men and four women) defeated all individual universities played, but was beaten by the state teams and the Australian Universities combination.

Outstanding players were Malcolm Woods and the captain, Richard Peterson. Woods, who defeated an Australian Olympic representative, will return to Australia in August with the New Zealand national team. These two were the only nationally ranked men in the Universities side. They faced strong opposition from Paul Rizzuto, Australian sabre champion, and three other nationally rated fencers.

The women's side defeated the Victoria State side 12-4 and narrowly lost the test 5-4, being handicapped by the loss of Sarah Tidy with a broken collar bone. Most consistent fencer was Lorna MacKenzie. Australian foil champion McCowage labelled Rosemary Lee as the player with most potential.

The Australian team will probably come to New Zealand in 1964. By then the New Zealand Universities team will have lost many players, and Australia is favoured to win.

Peterson attributed the Australian success to more stylish fencing, although the New Zealanders showed more courage.

He said sporting and student facilities in Australia were excellent—especially in Melbourne. Professional coaching was available for university fencers.