Tributes Pour In for a South Australian Football Icon

Barrie Robran, a celebrated Australian rules football player and Hall of Fame inductee, has passed away at the age of 77. He is widely considered one of the greatest footballers to have emerged from South Australia.

Robran's impressive career was marked by numerous accolades, including three Magarey Medals and two SANFL premierships. He was also a seven-time best-and-fairest winner for North Adelaide. He played 201 games for North Adelaide between 1967 and 1980, and represented South Australia's state side 17 times, even serving as captain.

North Adelaide Football Club paid a heartfelt tribute to Robran, describing him as a revered figure and an icon. The club acknowledged his role as a mentor and a gentleman whose presence enriched the lives of those around him. A statue of Robran, unveiled in 2014, became a spontaneous memorial, adorned with a North Adelaide scarf and flowers.

The club's CEO, Craig Burton, emphasized that there was no debate regarding Robran's place among the game's greats. He highlighted Robran's physical attributes and mental fortitude, evidenced by his multiple awards. Robran is survived by his wife and two sons, both of whom played in the AFL.

Josh Carr, a Port Adelaide assistant coach, remembered Robran's humility as his defining characteristic. The AFL also expressed its sadness, with CEO Andrew Dillon calling it a difficult day for South Australia's football community. The league recognized Robran as the finest footballer the state had produced in its history.

Dillon noted that Robran's opponents were often amazed by his skill, whether playing on the ball or at centre half-forward. He was praised for his complete skill set, including his marking ability, two-sided skills, courage, and football intelligence.

Robran was born in Whyalla in 1947. He came from a sporting family, with his brother also playing for North Adelaide and his sister excelling in netball. He began working for BHP at 17. He displayed early sporting talent in various sports before being recruited by North Adelaide.

Robran earned his Magarey Medals in 1968, 1970, and 1973, and played a key role in North Adelaide's premiership seasons in 1971 and 1972. His legacy is said to inspire, and his grace touched everyone he met.

Among his notable performances was his best-on-ground performance in the Championship of Australia match in 1972. A career-altering knee injury in 1974, sustained while captaining South Australia, curtailed his playing career. Robran turned down offers to play in the VFL and was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 1996, later achieving legend status in 2001.

Tributes have poured in from various sources, including former rivals. The SANFL also expressed its condolences, acknowledging Robran's achievements and describing him as a true legend and gentleman.