From closer scrutiny of Colin Matheson’s records it appears that the formation of Port Hedland Rovers was in 1967.
Shortly after arriving in Port Hedland in 1962, football umpire Colin Matheson started to organise football matches against the two pub rival teams, The Pier Hotel and the Esplanade. He even roped in Father Middleton, the local catholic priest to make up the numbers.
In 1967 he formed the Port Hedland Football Association between three clubs – Finucane Island, Rovers and Towns (later known as Panthers).
In 1969, the competition expanded to include Marble Bar and Goldsworthy and a name change to De Grey Football Association.
Port Hedland Rovers were a force to be reckoned with in the 1970s, winning premierships in 1971, 1973, 1974, 1975, 1976, and 1978.
There was a drought of premierships during the 1980s until they won their next premiership in 1990.
Significantly Port Hedland Rovers are one of the top teams in Pilbara football with a strong club and club history.
North Pilbara Football League History 