Geelong legend and revered AFL talent scout Michael Turner has died at the age of 70 following a battle with pancreatic cancer.
The Geelong Falcons – where Turner worked long after his own playing career ended – announced the news on Monday.
Weeks after his 70th birthday, Turner passed away in Lorne Community Hospital surrounded by family.
PLAYER RATINGS: How every Aussie fared in thrilling MCG victory
"Mick passed away today at the Lorne Hospital after a two-year battle with pancreatic cancer," a statement from the Falcons said.
"Put simply, the Geelong Falcons aren't the program it is today without Mick.
Michael Turner in action for Geelong. The Age
"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."
Turner played 245 games for the Cats between 1974 and 1988 and was a classy wingman who had speed to burn.
He won the ABC's goal of the year in 1980 (see video above).
He was named on the wing in Geelong's team of the century, while his father was named on the other wing.
After his playing career ended Turner went into talent development and scouting, and helped unearth the likes of modern-day AFL champions Gary Ablett Jr, Patrick Dangerfield, Luke Hodge, Jonathan Brown, and Jimmy Bartel.
The Cats say he aided 134 men and women make it to the elite competitions.
"Mick Turner was a brilliant wingman in an era of fantastic players who starred across the middle of the ground and Cats fans remember him for his pace and ability to kick a big team-lifting goal," AFL boss Andrew Dillon said on Tuesday.
"Post his playing career, he gave so much more to the game as a mentor and confidant to generations of talented young players and many of our greats who have come out of the Falcons' program all cite him as a pivotal influence on their success."
Barwon Heads Football Club, where Turner also worked, said it was "deeply saddened" and described him as a "true legend on and off the field".
"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," the club said in its statement.
"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."
