One of Redan Football Club’s greats Cal Howlett has died.
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Howlett, who was 84 years of age, was selected in the Lions’ team of the century for his deeds on the football field through the 1950s.
He was named in a back pocket beside Barry Cheatley and Don Discher.
Howlett was part of a golden era for Redan juniors, playing in under-16 premierships in 1947 and 1948.
The defender went on to play 217 senior games with the Lions – winning their best and fairest in 1956.
He is cited in the team of the century as to having been a “great combination” with Bill Closter.
From Smythesdale, Howlett also had a strong association with harness racing as a breeder and owner, as well as enjoying watching the development of his granddaughter Emma Stewart into one of Australia’s leading trainers.
Silvan Walk was a foundation mare for Howlett.
He bred Silvan Walk, one of two winners he had out of Phillis Royal, which was the first standardbred he purchased.
While she won eight races in the 1980s, Silvan Walk made an even bigger mark in the breeding barn.
She produced six winners, including smart pacer Highland Walk (11 wins) and Broad Walk (6 wins).
Highland Walk was trained and driven by Merv White in the late 1980s and early 1990s, winning a Victoria Sires Stake prelude as a 4yo and finishing third in the Victoria Sires Stake 3yo final.
Howlett spent more than 50 years working with the Country Roads Board – retiring from the role of overseer in 1996.
He died after collapsing at the Ballarat and District Trotting Club.
Howlett is survived by his wife of 62 years, Joan, and children Tony, Butch, Sue, Rick and Tan.