MELBOURNE Life Member Tony Bull has passed away following a battle with illness, aged 89.

Bull, who played 31 senior games in the red and blue, was a valuable contributor to the club in a variety of roles over a 28-year period.

Recruited from South Bendigo, Bull played for the Dees from 1953 to 1957, and won a seconds premiership in 1956.

He returned to the club in 1969 to become coach of the Demons’ under 19s side, before transitioning into the role of recruiting officer in 1975.

Three years later, Bull moved back into a specialist coaching position, alongside Carl Ditterich from 1979 to 1980, and continued as an under 19s assistant coach until 1981.

Later that year he was awarded Life Membership for his comprehensive contribution to the red and blue.

The Melbourne Football Club extends its deepest sympathies to the Bull family, as well as his former teammates and colleagues, at this very sad time.

Players will wear black armbands during Round 1 of the 2020 season in recognition of Bull’s contributions to the club.