Vale Brian Dixon: Demon great, reformer, and tireless public servant

Wearing black armbands during Sunday’s match against North Melbourne, Melbourne Football Club players honoured club legend Brian Dixon, who passed away in hospital on Wednesday, July 9, aged 89. A Jamieson resident for the past two decades, Brian was also a celebrated politician who balanced his community-focused aspirations with his passion for the game. His daughter, Judy Dixon, noted the symbolism of his passing on the 9th — the number he wore throughout his VFL career. “Dad always signed birthday and Christmas cards with nine kisses and hugs,” she said “A state politician and minister of many portfolios, he achieved great public policy outcomes that saved and improved lives. “He was a real change maker. “He introduced world-first seat belt legislation, was the founder of ‘Life. Be in it’, and helped drive International Sport for All. “He was a man with vision, positivity and conviction — fearless and formidable when he set his mind to something. “This was evident when he fought the proposed merger between Melbourne and Hawthorn football clubs.” Judy described her father as not only a brilliant athlete but also “the life of the party.” “He was a lot of fun, an incredible dancer, and he sang a lot — not very well — but with gusto. “He was also very competitive. Monopoly, chess, tennis, family races — you name it, he played to win and usually did. “A five-time premiership player, he was named in Melbourne’s Team of the Century and inducted into the AFL Hall of Fame. “Dad advocated for the game to go national and helped take it international. “He coached North Melbourne for two years, warming the seat for his great mate Ron Barassi, who generously credited Dad with laying the groundwork for their future success.” She said her father was deeply proud of his six children and 11 grandchildren, and loved his time in Jamieson with family. “Dad was very lucky to marry Carmel Dixon, who has been his rock for the past 22 years, and we have loved having her in our lives. “Larger than life, Dad’s legacy will live on — a great testament to him.” Melbourne Football Club President Brad Green said Dixon embodied the spirit of the club. “Brian was a great of our club and someone who has left a lasting mark, not just on Melbourne, but on the game as a whole,” Green said. “His football achievements speak for themselves, but his love for the club was just as significant. He was proud of our history and helped shape it.” Known for his work rate and athleticism on the wing, Dixon’s playing career coincided with one of Melbourne’s most dominant eras. Under coach Norm Smith, he played in five premierships — 1956, 1957, 1959, 1960 and 1964 — and won the Best and Fairest in 1960. He represented Victoria 10 times, won the Tassie Medal in 1961, and was selected as an All-Australian. By the time he retired in 1968, he had played 252 games — then a club record. A Liberal MP, Brian served as the state member for St Kilda from 1964 to 1982. He held senior portfolios including Social Welfare, Housing, and Youth, Sport and Recreation. His political career began while he was still an active VFL player. By the time he retired from football in 1968, he had already served a full parliamentary term and played around 70 matches during that time. Opposition Leader Brad Battin said Dixon’s political record was remarkable on its own, but even more so when combined with his sporting achievements. “Brian was a parliamentarian, a minister, a footballer, a coach — often all at once,” Mr Battin said. Brian will be farewelled at a state funeral next week in honour of his extraordinary contribution to football, politics, and the broader Victorian community.

Vale Brian Dixon: Demon great, reformer, and tireless public servant

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