Simon Boegheim – born in Gouda – has dedicated much of his life to the development and preservation of Dutch-Australian football in Queensland. From the mid-1960s, Simon became deeply involved in the administration of Hollandia Soccer Club, working alongside other prominent figures such as long-serving president John Morcus. During this pivotal period in the club’s history, Simon served as club secretary. His organisational skills and commitment were vital as Hollandia navigated the challenges of growth, identity, and integration within Queensland’s football landscape.
Beyond his administrative duties, Simon became well known as the ground announcer at Hollandia’s home games, lending his voice to matchdays and contributing to the vibrant atmosphere that characterised the club. His passion for the club extended to helping shape its future. Together with John Morcus, Simon played a key role in convincing the club’s committee to purchase the nearby Coconut Picture Theatre. This building was transformed into the Lions’ first social club, providing a much-needed hub for the Dutch-Australian community and supporters of the team.
Simon’s links to the Dutch footballing families of Brisbane were strengthened through his marriage to Ann, who is connected to the Mollee family — another well-known name in the Dutch-Australian community and football circles of Queensland.
In 2003, Simon served as president of the juniors at Lions when the club took the ambitious step of pursuing a licence for the new A-League. This decision ultimately led to the formation of the Queensland Roar, a new professional team that proudly adopted the famous Dutch orange as its playing colour, reflecting the heritage of Hollandia and the Dutch migrants who helped build football in Queensland.
Among Simon’s many contributions is the writing of the club supporters’ song, a chant that captured the spirit and pride of the Dutch-Australian football community, captured in the book Clogball.
It’s a grand old team to play for,
It’s a grand old team to see,
And if you know your history
It’s enough to make your heart go
whoa, whoa, whoa, whoa…
We don’t care what the newspapers say,
what the hell do we care,
Because we only know
there’s going to be a show
And Hollandia – or Lions –
Will be there!
Simon Boegheim’s story is one of lifelong service to football, community, and heritage. His work has left an indelible mark on Dutch-Australian sport and culture in Queensland, ensuring that the legacy of Hollandia and its people will be remembered for generations.
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