While the coveted Syd Barker Medal went to Shaun Higgins, several other players were recognised for their contributions during the club’s night of nights.
Ben Cunnington was donned Shinboner of the Year. The award epitomises the club values – real, bold, belonging and never beaten. Elite performance and class are also common words used to describe the midfielder; fans and club members voting on Cunnington to also claim the Mazda Excellence Award.
19-year-old Jy Simpkin has proven to be a potential star already, awarded The Best Young Player award. Voted by the NMFC staff, he has been recognised for making his mark within the club and the AFL in his first season.
Simpkin was drafted to North Melbourne in 2016 and has played 13 AFL games since his debut in Round 1 this year.
The spirit of giving, going the ‘extra mile’ on numerous occasions, often without recognition, and never expecting fanfare are acknowledged in the Peter Scanlon Community Award. Ben Brown, received the award for demonstrating passion, leadership and outstanding commitment, helping shape the club’s culture and connect the community. The award acknowledges his ability to empower others with the confidence to speak up on issues of inequality, sexism, violence and discrimination.
Lachlan Hansen, the 2017 Harold Henderson Best Clubman Award victor, has been recognised for his unselfishness but foremost his team-first attitude. As the award stipulates, he went beyond the call of duty for all involved with club.
Todd Goldstein, an All-Australian and Syd Barker medallist in 2015; Andrew Swallow, club-captain (2012-16) and three-time Syd Barker Medallist along with Scott Thompson, 2013 Syd Barker Medallist and All-Australian have all been awarded with Life Membership.
