Michael Turner remembered: Geelong legend passes away at 70

TRIBUTES are pouring in for former Geelong great Michael Turner, who has passed away at the age of 70 after a two-year battle with pancreatic cancer.

He died peacefully on Monday at Lorne Community Hospital.

Turner, a star of the Cats between 1974 and 1988, played 245 games in the VFL, kicking 285 goals.

He earned All-Australian honors in 1979 and led Geelong’s goal tally in 1982 with 40 goals.

Hailing from Warrnambool, Turner followed in the footsteps of his father, Leo, to carve out a remarkable career in football.

Both father and son earned places on opposite wings in Geelong’s ‘Team of the Century’ named in 2001, a nod to their extraordinary contributions to the club.

Off the field, Turner’s legacy extended beyond his playing career. His work as general manager of the Geelong Falcons saw him guide countless young players over 25 years, shaping football in southwest Victoria for decades.

In early 2023, Turner publicly revealed his diagnosis of pancreatic cancer.

Despite his illness, he remained a significant figure in the football community and continued to inspire those around him.

The Falcons released a heartfelt statement honouring Turner, saying his impact on the club and community was immeasurable.

“The Geelong Falcons program is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of the legendary Mick Turner,” the statement read.

“Mick passed away today at the Lorne Hospital after a two-year battle with pancreatic cancer.”

“Put simply, the Geelong Falcons aren’t the program it is today without Mick.

“In his 25 years as talent manager, he guided so many careers on and off the field and has had a monumental impact on football in the southwest of Victoria over many decades.

“MT9’s legacy will live long in the walls of Highton Reserve and in all the faces who have come through the club.

Barwon Heads Football Netball Club paid tribute to Turner on social media, acknowledging his enduring contributions to their community.

“Barwon Heads Football Netball Club are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Michael Turner today, 30 December 2024,” the statement read.

“Beyond his notable success at the highest level with Geelong Football Club and his significant influence at the Geelong Falcons, Mick was a cornerstone of our community.

“He served in various roles including vice president, committeeman, chairman of selectors, recruiter, and many others.

“His dedication was evident when he even donned the boots for a senior game in 1994.

“Mick was pivotal in the 1993 premiership victory, and his passion ignited a legacy that continues to burn brightly each year.

“Our deepest sympathies go out to his wife Karen, sons Levi and Che (all former BHFNC players), and his adoring grandchildren. A true legend on and off the field.

“Rest in Peace.”

In the days before Christmas, the AFL confirmed life membership for Turner following a special resolution by the AFL Commission earlier this month.

The honour, prompted by submissions from club and senior football figures, was conveyed to Turner before his passing

Mick is survived by his wife Karen, sons Levi and Che, their partners Brooke and Grace, and his beloved grandchildren Frankie, Ziggy, Raff, and Arlo.