When Steve Mortimer sank to his knees at full-time in 1985’s second State of Origin match and kissed the muddy SCG ground, it symbolised his passion for his state and his code after leading NSW to their first series win.

A record number of 85 former NSW players, together with a haunting video tribute to “Turvey” Mortimer from rugby league’s most famous voice, greeted coach Michael Maguire’s current team before Monday night’s annual True Blues dinner.

The hour-long ceremony in a private room at the Star casino was the biggest show of support for a Blues side since the Origin series began in 1980.

It focused on Mortimer’s play and his efforts in that success at the SCG.

Given the year was 1985 and, coincidentally, 85 former players attended, there was a prevailing feeling it was an omen that Maguire’s young team will reverse Queensland’s recent dominance in the annual festival of bad blood and good football.

The meticulous Maguire worked on the presentation for more than a month, deliberately choosing what he described as a “back to the future” theme in seeking to evoke pride in the Blues jumper.

Steve Mortimer celebrates winning the 1985 State of Origin seriesCredit: Fairfax Media/Bethany........

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