Category: Jim Stynes

Farewell Jim: Ten News Jim Stynes Coverage

We take a look at the 5pm Channel Ten news bulletin covering the Jim Stynes funeral service with Ten newsreader and Dees diehard Mal Walden and his fellow news colleague, Helen Kapalos. Great coverage. This pulls at my heartstrings every time I watch it. Us Demon supporters united in grief. Rest In Peace Jimmy.

JIM STYNES 1966 – 2012

It is with a heavy heart I post this video tribute for a Melbourne Football Club legend. Jim Stynes lost his battle to cancer earlier this week, sparking an outpouring of grief from all walks of life, the entire football community and all passionate Demons supporters like myself. There are no words to define the sadness, nor are there any words to comprehend such a loss. I have grown up watching ‘Jimmy’ play, adored his athleticism, passion, drive and determination not only on the field as a player, but off the field. Jim Stynes revived the Melbourne Football Club from certain extinction, the writing was on the wall, however Jim’s love and desire to return the Demons as a powerhouse football side won the hearts of all red and blue supporters. This great man will never be forgotten. The opportunities I had to speak with Jim, particularly during his playing career will always stay with me, these are moments I will cherish and carry as I watch the Demons strive to serve Jimmy proud and take home their first premiership since 1964. It is because of Jim Melbourne is where it is today – for that I am eternally grateful. We’ll miss you Jimmy. x

Click READ MORE to view the video tributes.

Demons President Steps Down

New Melbourne President Don McLardy
Jim Stynes, the colossal tower of strength who brought the Melbourne Football Club back from the brink of ruin has stood down from his role as President at the club. The last couple of years have been busy at the Dees helm, Stynes opting out to concentrate on his treatment for melanoma. Jim was appointed President in June of 2008. Don McLardy will take over the role as President, the announcement came at the club’s Annual General Meeting. Jim Stynes’ achievement was acknowledged by a standing ovation from members.
On a personal level, I can say Jim has pretty much revived my great football club, put us back on the map from within the football fraternity and has also established some very impressive networks from within the clubs business circles. Without this, the club would be cellar dwellers, now, the Dees are on the verge of becoming an AFL powerhouse once more. We will see what the new Demons are made of come February 25.
Official statement from the Melbourne Football Club

Jim Stynes has stepped down as President to focus on his health and family as he continues his cancer fight.

The announcement came at Melbourne’s AGM, held in the Members’ Dining Room at the MCG on Wednesday night. Although Stynes was not in attendance, due to his ongoing treatment, the announcement was made by Don McLardy, who has now become Melbourne President after serving as Stynes’ vice-president. Guy Jalland will continue as joint Vice-president, along with fellow director Peter Spargo, who replaces McLardy in that position. Stynes released a statement about relinquishing his position, which was read by Don McLardy at the AGM.


Standing ovation from members acknowledging Jim Stynes’ achievement
Statement from Jim Stynes:As Melbourne enters what promises to be an exciting new season, and hopefully exciting new era, I see this an opportune time to step down as Melbourne president. It will give the football club the best chance to be 100 per cent prepared for round one and will give me the time to fully focus on my health and family.  I am extremely proud of what the board has managed to achieve since I took on the presidency in June 2008, particularly in bringing a greater sense of unity and purpose to the club. I have full confidence that Don McLardy and the team will continue that work. Don has my full support to lead the club and the Demons can rely on me to help out in an advisory capacity at any time.

For full coverage, including Don McLardy’s speech from the AGM and Jim Stynes’ full announcement, visit melbournefc.com.au