Michael Turner in action against Richmond in Round 8, 1982. Credit Bob Gartland Collection

The Geelong Football Club will remember with great respect, it’s former captain and legend of Kardinia Park, Michael ‘Mick’ Turner aged 70, who passed peacefully on Monday after a courageous two-year battle with pancreatic cancer.

Mick played 245 games and kicked 285 goals for the Club between 1974 and 1988, following in the footsteps of father Leo Turner, who was a dual premiership player (1951/52) and played 130 games for the Club.

Mick was a leader and extraordinary player who was highly skilled and possessed lightning speed.  His first game in the Hoops he was voted best player, was named wingman in Geelong’s team of the century on the opposite wing to his father, an All-Australian in 1979 and led Geelong’s goal kicking in 1982 with 40 goals.  Mick also kicked the goal of the year in 1980 against Richmond.

Born in Geelong and having grown up in Warrnambool, it was always a dream to be a part of the blue and white during his playing career and whilst his on-field performance was profound, Mick had a greater influence off it and will be remembered for impacting the lives of many in the greater Geelong community.

Michael Turner in action against Hawthorn in Round 21, 1987 at Kardinia Park. Credit Bob Gartland Collection.

Mick served as captain-coach of Werribee in the Victorian Football Association before being appointed as regional manager of the Geelong Falcons in 1995.

Mick spent 25 years at the Geelong Falcons as their Talent Manager helping 134 men and women fulfill their dream of making it onto an AFL or AFLW list, including Gary Ablett Jnr, Cameron Ling, Patrick Dangerfield, Nina Morrison and Jimmy Bartel to name a few.

Of that group, eight captained their club and 21 have gone on to become Premiership players.

44:08

Legends Of Kardinia Park | Episode 1 Mick Turner

In the first episode of our Legends of Kardinia Park series we speak with Team of the Century wingman and former Geelong captain Mick Turner who played 245 games and kicked 285 goals between 1974 and 1988. Presented by McCafe

Mick was also hugely influential at the Barwon Heads Football & Netball Club serving many roles including vice president, committeeman, chairman of selectors, recruiter, and many others.

Mick’s contribution to the Geelong Football Club and broader AFL competition saw him recently awarded AFL life membership, following a special resolution from the AFL Commission.

Mick will be remembered as a skilful player, a passionate Geelong person and a mentor to many.

The Club sends its heartfelt condolences to Mick’s wife Karen and children Levi and Che, their partners Brooke and Grace, his grandchildren Frankie, Ziggy, Raff and Arlo, and extended family and friends. 

Rest peacefully, Mick.