Hi everyone,

Firstly, I want to extend a heartfelt thank you to every one of you who signed the petition advocating for an independent review of the Melbourne Football Club. While we didn't garner the level of backing I had hoped for, I'd like to believe that we've all contributed in a small way to making positive changes at the club we love. As we await the full outcome of the reviews, I felt it was appropriate to provide an update on this petition.

Disappointment in the Review Process and Lack of Response

I remain disappointed that the review conducted by the MFC was not carried out independently. It is disheartening to see that the process lacked the transparency we sought and that publicly holding individuals accountable for some of the club’s recent issues remains elusive. Adding to this frustration is the club’s silence in response to our petition and the letters many of us have written letters to the club expressing our concerns. The lack of respect for the voices of paying members is deeply disappointing and reflects poorly on how the club values its supporters. However, I remain hopeful that the club will recognise our concerns and take steps to address them.

Positive Changes and Future Hope

Despite these setbacks, it is pleasing to see the reported changes that will be occurring at the MFC. These steps are a positive sign and offer hope that the club is moving in the right direction. Although I disagree with the way Brad Green has handled the review and communications with members, I have no doubt he has the club's best interests at heart. I am cautiously optimistic that these changes will bring improvement both on and off the field and that the future for the Melbourne Football Club looks brighter.

Acknowledging Peter Lawrence’s Efforts

Many have questioned whether Peter Lawrence had any involvement in my letter published by The Age and this petition — for the record, he did not! In fact, I'd never had any communication with him until last month. However, through this process, it has become clear how difficult it is to hold an organisation like the MFC to account and I've developed great respect for his tireless efforts.

Although the club has portrayed his endeavours as harmful and his actions have caused financial strain, all of this could have been avoided if the club had simply embraced the reasonable and positive changes to governance he campaigned for without a legal battle. I believe Peter's work has brought positive change to the way the club is run and will enhance the accountability of the board and in turn the club.

For those who signed the petition, I encourage you to join me in supporting Deemocracy and continuing to advocate for transparency, accountability, and democracy within the club's administration — http://www.deemocracy.com  

Looking Forward

With the review now complete, this petition serves little purpose and will be closed. While we can continue to push for better governance, I believe the best thing for the MFC is to try and put this behind us and give those now charged with running the club the benefit of the doubt. Let’s offer them our support and hope they can help bring the respect and sustained success to the club that we all crave.

Thank you again for your support — bring on 2025!

Go Dees and best regards,

Ricky

rickydunn_aus@icloud.com