Former Melbourne footballer, politician Brian Dixon farewelled at state funeral

Five-time premiership footballer and politician Brian Dixon, who was a key figure behind the 'Life be in it' campaign and mandatory seatbelt legislation, has been farewelled at a a state funeral in Melbourne.

Those gathered at St Patrick’s Cathedral heard of the former state Liberal MP's achievements and contributions, from VFL premiership cups from his time at Melbourne, to posters from the government campaigns he championed.

Dixon died earlier this month at the age of 89.

Brian Dixon was well-respected both as a footballer and politician. (Supplied: Melbourne Football Club)

The eulogy was delivered by Dr Barry Jones, a friend of Dixon's since 1963 despite being on opposite sides of the political aisle.

"Brian Dixon was not only an outstanding footballer, as has been reported at length, but a courageous, dedicated and visionary member of the Victorian Parliament from 1964 to 1982," he said.

Dr Jones highlighted many of Dixon's political and social, calling him "a great contributor and change agent", with achievements including contributing to the abolition of the death penalty.

"To his family, you have lost a hero, we will never forget him," he said.

Dixon left 'profound' legacy

His daughter Judy Dixon recounted how her father was born "without a silver spoon in his mouth" and grew up kicking a football around "made of tightly bundled socks".

"Perhaps that explains his extraordinary ability to ball gather, and perhaps even his unorthodox kicking style," she said.

A Melbourne Football Club scarf is laid in front of Brian Dixon's casket. (ABC: Natasha MacFarlane)

The tribute highlighted some of the tragedies that affected Dixon's life, including the loss of his father as a teenager to what is now believed to have been motor neuron disease — a disease which also took Judy's brother — and the loss of Dixon's sister, who died soon after birth.

"He carted wood and delivered newspapers for cash to help his mother Amy pay the bills," Ms Dixon remembered.

She said her father would have been proud of receiving a state funeral.

" Well played Brian, you have left a profound legacy of which we are proud. "

The ceremony began with an introduction by Father George Feliciouz, who spoke of "the extraordinary life of Brian" which led to "an extraordinary legacy".

Key role in mandatory seatbelts laws

Numerous members of state and federal government representatives attended, as well as current Melbourne AFL and AFLW captains Max Gawn and Kate Hore.

Current state MP Tim Richardson stood to read the poem "If—" by Rudyard Kipling.

Five premiership cups were on display, and before his casket a table was laid with a Melbourne Football Club scarf and a black-and-white framed image of Dixon playing, a testament to his work as both a player and coach.

Dixon joined Melbourne Football Club in 1954, where he played 252 games and became a five-time premiership player. He also coached North Melbourne Football Club for two years.

It was these contributions that led to his being recognised in 2010 with his induction into the AFL Hall of Fame.

Five premiership cups were on display at St Patrick’s Cathedral. (ABC: Natasha MacFarlane)

While still playing for Melbourne in 1964, Brian was elected as the Liberal member for the former seat of St Kilda in the Victorian Legislative Assembly.

There were also reminders of his achievements in politics, with an old image from the 'Life be in it' campaign framed upon the table before the casket.

As the minister for youth, sport and recreation, Dixon championed the campaign – an initiative encouraging Australians to live active lives.

During a political career that would stretch 18 years, he held a number of portfolios, including employment and training, sport and recreation, housing, social welfare, and education.

Dixon was also notable for his contribution to road safety. As chair of the road safety committee he played a key role introducing the world’s first compulsory seatbelt legislation.

After leaving Parliament in 1982, Brian continued to tirelessly advocate for public health and sport development, both within Australia and internationally.

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