The Western Bulldogs are saddened by the news that former player, Brownlow Medallist and Australian Football Hall of Fame member Barry Round has passed away, aged 72.

Described as a ‘lion-hearted big man’, Round enjoyed a brilliant career in the VFL with the Bulldogs and South Melbourne/Sydney Swans, as well as with Williamstown in the VFA.

He played 328 games and kicked 293 goals in a VFL (now the AFL) career spanning 17 years from 1965-1985, which began with Footscray.

He played 135 games and kicked 136 goals for the Bulldogs, before switching to South Melbourne (which later became the Sydney Swans).

There, he played a total of 193 games and kicked 157 goals, winning his Brownlow Medal in 1981 in a tie with Bernie Quinlan.

He also won two Best and Fairest awards at the Swans (in 1979 and 1981), and was captain of the Club for five seasons when it transitioned from South Melbourne to Sydney.

Following his retirement from the VFL, Round became a playing coach with Williamstown in the VFA (now known as the VFL), enjoying premiership success in 1986 and 1990.

During his time with the Seagulls, he also won the JJ Liston Trophy in 1987 (the VFA’s Best and Fairest award) and the Norm Goss Medal in 1990 (for being best afield in the Grand Final).

The Club extends its deepest condolences to Barry’s partner Jenni, his children David and Natalie, his grandchildren and his extended family during this difficult time.