The North Melbourne Kangaroos are saddened by the death of former club chairman Graham Duff (AM), who passed away at age 80 on Sunday.

Duff assumed the chairmanship of the club in 2005, taking over from Kangaroos legend Allen Aylett during a tumultuous time for the club. He remained at the helm until the end of 2007. 

During his almost three years as chairman, among other achievements, Duff helped usher revered figures Ron Joseph and James and Mark Brayshaw onto the club board. All three played a significant role in the club’s decision to remain in Melbourne despite a strong push from the AFL to relocate to the Gold Coast.

His board also implemented a major change to the North Melbourne constitution in 2007, which enabled members to vote in a club election for the first time in 20 years.

President Ben Buckley paid tribute to Duff, who retained a keen interest in the Kangaroos well after his time as an administrator had passed. 

“Graham steered the club through a difficult period after our great success in the 1990s,” Buckley said.

“It was always going to be a difficult transition on and off the field after that extended era of success so it speaks to Graham’s character that he put up his hand to help the club in those circumstances.

“He was a passionate North man and everyone connected with the club passes on our condolences to Graham’s family and close friends.”

In addition to his service to North Melbourne, Duff also held a number of key posts in Victorian sport, including Chairman of Racing Victoria from 2001-07 and foundation Chairman of the Victorian Institute of Sport.