Joe Blair
Joe C. Blair, known as J. C. Blair and JCB, was president of the Melbourne Football Club, treasurer of the Melbourne Cricket Club, vice-president of the Victorian Football League and deputy chairman of the Vacuum Oil Company.
Early life
Blair had an outstanding school sporting career and was the Victorian mixed doubles champion in tennis three times. He also won the singles and doubles championship of South Australia and regularly partnered Sir Norman Brookes. Bowles was another sport at which he excelled.Vacuum Oil
Blair was associated with Vacuum Oil Company for 41 years. In that time he worked as a clerk, assistant accountant, chief clerk, chief accountant, with the financial directorate and finally as deputy chairman of the company for eight years. He retired on 31 May 1946.Sporting administrator
Football
Blair was the president of the Melbourne Football Club for 18 years, from 1929, taking over the presidency from Vernon Ransford, until his death in 1946, when he was succeeded by William Flintoft. He was made a life member of the club prior to 1943. During his time as president Blair met and convinced star West Australian player, Stan "Pops" Heal, to play for the club for the 1941 season. Although Heal only played eight games, he contributed to Melbourne winning their third consecutive premiership.During the time he was president of Melbourne, Blair was also vice-president of the Victorian Football League, of which he became a life member.