Essendon has an excellent record in the pre-season competition and has won six premiership cups since 1981. One of those victories came in 1984 when the Bombers comfortably defeated Sydney by 51 points to claim what was then known as the Sterling Cup. The problem is that the Sterling Cup itself hasn't been sighted since and so the search begins.

Hall of Fame curator Barb Cullen first started work at the club in 1992 and she hasn't laid eyes on the cup in that time. "Terry Daniher was captain of that winning side and he remembers being presented with the cup at the time. What happened to it after that is a mystery," Barb said. "Someone might have it with them and not realise what it is. It would not have Essendon inscribed on it .. it would only have Sterling Cup inscribed on the base."

The Sterling Cup trophy itself has a square silver base with some intricately detailed players holding the cup itself. "It would be lovely to have it back so we can complete pur collection," Barb said. Anyone who has any information on the whereabouts of the cup or who might have inadvertently picked it up can call Barb on 92300351.