Gordon Dunster began refereeing soccer in 1976 at the age of 15. A mere decade later, a promotion to the National Soccer League as a referee and linesman signalled the start of an illustrious soccer officiating career.
Involvement with the National League culminated in Gordon officiating several National Soccer League Cups and grand finals between 1992 and 1996.
During this time Gordon received the title of Australian Linesman of the Year twice, and from his distinguished national recognition, was chosen to control many international matches played in Australia.
Gordon’s international representation began in 1981 and eventually grew to the point where he received the opportunity to officiate in the highly respected Olympic arena.
Gordon officiated throughout the 1992 Olympic Games, receiving the honour of Assistant Referee in the Olympic final. Significantly, it was in this year that Gordon was acknowledged for his excellence in soccer officiating by being appointed the FIFA Number One Linesman in the World.
His rise to international prominence also included officiating at several World Cup qualifiers, and most notably, appearing at the 1994 World Cup where he assisted in the quarter-final.
Gordon was also involved in various Tri-Nations matches, the four Nation’s Cup tournaments and finals, as well as many national and international Youth League games.
Gordon retired in 1998 having been named the World’s number one Assistant Referee for seven years running and the only Australian ever to officiate at an Olympic Games final.
In an effort to expand and help with the growth of the refereeing profession, Gordon became involved as a state refereeing coach in Canberra following his officiating career.
His involvement in soccer refereeing has been outstanding and is recognised through his induction into the ActewAGL ACT Sport Hall of Fame.
SOCCER
Born: 19 May 1961
Inducted: 2004
Associate Member