Benny Cubillo

One of the Territories most outstanding sportsman, athlete and descendent from Darwin’s well known sporting families. Ben was born on 27/6/1938 the third eldest of seven children whose parents were Eddie and Rose Cubillo

Ben’s father was also a former champion footballer with both Buffaloes (now Darwin) and the Wanderers Football Clubs winning the most prestigious NTFL’s Best and Fairest (now the Nichols Medal since 1948/49) in 1929

Ben is married with five children, a son Ben (Jnr) and four Daughters Veronica, Bernadette, Pacita and Margarette

When the St Marys Football Club was formed in 1952 under the guidance of Ted Egan AM and the Reverend Father Aubrey Collins, Ben at the tender age of 14 whilst still attending St Marys Catholic School in Darwin became possibly the youngest ever known player to play first grade Australian Rules football in the Northern Territory at 14 years and 120 days old. (There were no other grades prior to the 1953/54 season when the Reserves were formed).

Ben played in St Marys inaugural team on Saturday 25/10/1952 with his brother John which was coached by Mr Jack Sweeny a former league player from Western Australia and was captained by Ted Egan.

Ben’s football career first began on old Darwin oval, where he first played in the roving positions and in later years when the venue was moved to Gardens Oval played in various positions including wing, half forward flank and half back flank.

Although only standing 5 feet 5 inches tall Ben was known for his speed and ability to kick with both feet and for his uncanny “high screamers”.

Comparatively a small player Ben also demonstrated his courage and ability to win and take possession of the football amidst a group of players much bigger and heavier than himself.

During his career with St Marys Ben played in three premierships 1954/55, 1965/66 and 1966/67 an played in the loosing Grand Final ides of 1962/63 and 1963/64 and won various awards in first grade such as Best Junior (Under 21)awarded by the NTFL in 1952/53 season. Most Improved player and on three occasions won the most consistent award for the St Marys Football Club.

Still a teenager in the 1950’s Ben was also named in the NT Sports Writer’s column as one of he twelve leading Sportsmen in Darwin. His sporting achievements ere recognised for his contribution as a player in Australian Rules, Basketball, Soccer, Tennis, Baseball and Boxing.

Unfortunately due to Cyclone Tracy (when all records were lost) it is estimated Ben played more than 200 senior games with St Marys. Ben retired as a player in 1969.

Benny is a Player Life Member of the St Marys Football Club

Since leaving school in 1955 Ben was first employed with the Post Master General’s Department then transferred to the Department of Works (Soils Laboratory section) located in RAAF Base Darwin working in conjunction with RAAF 5 Airfield Construction Squadron in constructing the present Airfield in Darwin.

In 1957 Ben transferred to the Australian Taxation Office where He was continuously employed until his retirement in 1990 due to ill health.

Shortly after his retirement Ben has given most of his time to St Martin De Porres Aboriginal Community where He is involved in various ministry duties in the Catholic Church.