Last Updated on 1 week by Vijay Kumar
Michael “Mick” Turner (6 December 1954 – 30 December 2024) was a celebrated Australian rules footballer who became one of Geelong Football Club’s best-known players and later a highly respected talent developer in south-west Victoria. He died on 30 December 2024 after a two-year battle with pancreatic cancer.
Early life and family
Turner was born on 6 December 1954 and grew up in Warrnambool, Victoria. He completed his final years of school at Monivae College in Hamilton. He was the son of Leo Turner (1928–1997), another long-serving Geelong player and premiership member.
Playing career (Geelong 1974–1988)
Turner played 245 senior games and kicked 285 goals for Geelong between 1974 and 1988. He was a pacy wingman / half-forward known for his kicking and running ability, was selected as an All-Australian in 1979, and served as Geelong captain during the mid-1980s. He was later named in Geelong’s official Team of the Century as a wingman.
Post-playing career and contribution to junior development
After leaving Geelong’s playing list, Turner was captain-coach of Werribee in the VFA in 1989. He became deeply involved in junior talent pathways and was appointed a regional manager / talent manager with the Geelong Falcons in the 1990s — a role in which he spent decades helping identify and develop future AFL players. His work with the Falcons and in the region was widely credited with shaping many professional careers.
Personal life
Turner was married to Karen. He is survived by his sons Levi and Che, their partners and his grandchildren. Obituary notices and club statements named Karen, Levi and Che as immediate family.
Illness and death
In early 2023 Turner publicly revealed a diagnosis of pancreatic cancer. He died peacefully on 30 December 2024, aged 70, at Lorne Community Hospital after a two-year battle with the disease. The Geelong Football Club, the AFL and numerous local outlets issued tributes recognising his on-field achievements and off-field contribution to young footballers.
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