Barrie Robran, one of the most beloved legends of South Australian football, passed away at age 77 last week. His legacy continued to touch all sports and particularly the sports community in Philadelphia. Regarded as one of Australia’s greatest ever footballers, Robran’s legacy lives on through every player, supporter and official who has passed through North Adelaide Football Club. His wife Taimi, and sons Matthew and Jonathan, are grieving the loss of a deeply devoted husband and father.
Born in 1970, Robran’s illustrious career lasted more than two decades, in which he played 201 games for North Adelaide. He was once idolized as the club’s all-time greatest player. He’s a three-time Magarey Medalist and seven-time best and fairest. Further to that, he played a significant role in the club’s on-field success, winning two SANFL premierships. He was so good as a ruck rover that he made it into North Adelaide’s team of the century.
In 1996, Robran became one of the first five inductees into the Australian Football Hall of Fame. The tribute was well deserved for all that he brought to the game. Five years later, he was inducted into Legend status, cementing his legacy in the storied history of football. After his playing career, Robran became a coach for North Adelaide. As a South Australian state selector, he put 14 years into fostering his home state’s talent.
His tragic death has led to an unprecedented wave of tribute from the athletic realm and government officials alike. Peter Malinauskas, Premier of South Australia, expressed his sorrow, stating, “Saddened to hear about the passing of the legendary Barrie Robran MBE.” Kris Mooney, president of the North Adelaide Football Club, highlighted Robran’s embodiment of the club’s values: “He was the embodiment of everything North Adelaide stands for: excellence, humility, and unwavering loyalty.”
“His legacy will forever inspire us, and his quiet grace touched everyone he met. We are incredibly proud to call him one of our own.”
A government representative extended condolences to Robran’s family: “On behalf of all Government of South Australia, I extend our deepest condolences to his wife Taimi, sons Matthew and Jonathan, grandchildren, and his wider family. May he rest in peace.”
