Roger Buttenshaw’s family was originally from the central west NSW town of Grenfell. By the early 1930’s Roger’s father, Norman, had relocated to the Riverina district. He managed a rural property near Griffith and was a Stock and Station Agent. Roger was born at Griffith circa 1935.
The family then moved to the suburb of Ashfield prior to the second world war. It was where Roger spent his adolescent years and learned to play rugby league. Roger was a Wests junior but made his grade debut with the Newtown club.
He returned to Wests in 1958, joining his brother John in the black and white. Roger played with Wests throughout its golden period in the late 1950’s and early 1960’s. He played mainly at five-eighth and challenged the big names at Wests for a First Grade position. He certainly had the talent to hold a regular spot in the top team but injuries at critical times thwarted his opportunities.
After leaving Wests Roger moved to the central west of NSW and became a successful coach. He coached the Gunnedah team which included future Wests player John Donnelly. Gunnedah were Group premiers and won the prestigious Clayton Cup in 1973.
