Thomas played nine games and kicked five goals for Collingwood over two VFL seasons.

In a premiership year for Collingwood, Thomas played seven games, including one against Carlton at Princes Park where he kicked three goals in a thrilling win.

On the cricket field Bird was a right-handed wicket-keeper batsman and played three first-class matches for Victoria in the summer of 1928–29.

His debut match, against New South Wales, was his finest as he scored 63 from position eight in the batting order to help Victoria secure a draw in their second innings.

The match, which took place at the Sydney Cricket Ground, is remembered for Don Bradman's innings of 340 not out, his maiden first-class triple hundred.