Brian Dixon Remembered as a Legend of Sport, Politics and Public Health
Today, let’s take a moment to reflect on the life of a truly remarkable Australian—Brian Dixon. A man whose name has been etched into the history books of both sport and public service, Brian was farewelled with great honour at a state funeral held at St Patrick’s Cathedral in Melbourne. The service brought together political figures, sporting legends, friends, and family, all united in celebration of an extraordinary life lived with courage, energy, and vision.
Many will remember Brian Dixon as a five-time premiership player for the Melbourne Football Club. He played an impressive 252 games from 1954, at a time when footy was as much grit as it was glory. In fact, for a while he held the record for most games played for the club—a true Demon through and through. His achievements on the field later earned him a place in the AFL Hall of Fame in 2010. But Dixon’s legacy didn’t stop at the boundary line.
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While still playing in 1964, Brian entered politics, becoming the Liberal MP for the seat of St Kilda in the Victorian Parliament. Over the next 18 years, he took on multiple ministerial roles, including housing, social welfare, sport and recreation, and education. His impact was wide-ranging, but he is especially remembered for two standout contributions: spearheading the “Life. Be in it.” campaign and helping to pass the world’s first mandatory seatbelt legislation.
That health campaign—the one with Norm, the couch potato—encouraged Australians to get active and stay healthy. It was a groundbreaking public health initiative, and Brian was its biggest champion. And when it comes to road safety, millions of lives have likely been saved thanks to his push for seatbelt laws. That’s a legacy few can match.
His daughter Judy spoke warmly at the funeral, sharing how Brian grew up without privilege, making balls from bundled socks and helping his mother make ends meet. Despite these humble beginnings, he rose to national influence through hard work, heart, and principle.
Friends and colleagues, including Dr Barry Jones and former Tasmanian Premier Ray Groom, described him as a man of deep thought, integrity, and a relentless drive to serve the public. And even across the political aisle, Dixon was respected for his courage and vision.
So while Australia says goodbye to Brian Dixon at age 89, his influence will live on—in every AFL game played, in every seatbelt buckled, and in every person inspired to live a healthier life. As his daughter put it so beautifully: “Well played, Brian. You’ve left a profound legacy.”
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