MELBOURNE has officially farewelled Luke Jackson and Toby Bedford, with the duo being traded to Fremantle and GWS Giants respectively. 

The deal, which was lodged on Monday, saw Fremantle trade its 2022 draft selection 13, 2023 future first round selection and also its 2023 future second round selection in exchange for Jackson.

Melbourne will trade pick 44 to Fremantle, which it received from the GWS Giants in exchange for Bedford, and Melbourne’s current pick 67, which the Demons wouldn’t have utilised in this year’s draft.

Melbourne List Manager Tim Lamb said although the club was disappointed, they respected Luke’s and Toby’s decision to continue their careers elsewhere.

“There is no doubt that we wanted Luke to remain at the Demons, but we respect his decision to return home to Western Australia to be closer to his family and friends,” Lamb told Melbourne Media.

“Toby has been a much loved member of our program and while we are disappointed that we will be losing him, we also understand and respect his decision to pursue further opportunities

“We thank both Luke and Toby for their contribution and commitment to the club over a number of years.

“After completing this trade, we now hold a significant suite of draft picks over the next two years.

“Pick 13 this year as well as two 2023 first round selections and two 2023 second round selections present us with a terrific opportunity, and we will now look at all options that present themselves.” 

Jackson played 52 games for the red and blue and was a member of Melbourne’s drought breaking 2021 Premiership team.

Bedford played 16 senior games this season, with ten of those as the Medical Substitute. More recently, Bedford took home a VFL Premiership with the Casey Demons.

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