On this Day in 2012: Absolute legend Jim Stynes sadly passed away

On this day in 2012 Australian Rules Football legend Jim Stynes sadly passed away after a two-and-a-half year battle with cancer.

Best known for his impact on and off the field of play in Australia, Stynes came from a GAA background at Ballyboden St Enda’s and Dublin.

Stynes won an All-Ireland minor medal playing for Dublin in 1984 before moving down under to Melbourne.

He went on to play 264 games and in 1991 became the only non-Australian to win the prestigious Brownlow Medal. 

Off the pitch Jim worked for his charity, The Reach Foundation, helping young people to strive for and achieve their goals. 

In 2008, he became President of Melbourne Football Club.

However, the following year he was diagnosed with cancer and underwent years of treatment in the public eye to bring awareness to the disease. 

Speaking at the time of his death, then Ballyboden Chair Terry O’Neill said: “To most people, Jim is known as one of Ireland’s best known international superstars but at moments like this our thoughts must be of – Jim the husband, father, son, brother and friend. 

“Their loss is immeasurable and being connected to someone who is so well-known in both Australia and Ireland must have added an additional burden. 

“But there must also be consolation to see someone touch the lives of so many and to leave so many happy memories behind.”