Collingwood FC Unveil Official Plans for Bronze Statue Honoring Nathan Buckley
In a historic moment for Collingwood Football Club and its legion of supporters, the club has officially announced plans to immortalize Nathan Buckley in bronze with a statue to be unveiled outside the AIA Centre later this year. The tribute will celebrate Buckley’s iconic status as one of the greatest players and leaders in Collingwood’s storied history.
The announcement was made at a packed media event held on Wednesday morning, attended by club president Jeff Browne, head coach Craig McRae, current players, past legends, and Buckley himself. The statue will be positioned prominently near the club’s training and administration headquarters at Olympic Park, adjacent to the famous statue of Bob Rose.
“This is more than just a statue,” said Browne. “It’s a symbol of what Nathan Buckley means to the Collingwood Football Club. A leader, a warrior, and a Magpie through and through. His influence shaped a generation of players and inspired millions of fans.”
Honoring a Magpie Immortal
Buckley played 280 games for Collingwood between 1994 and 2007, captaining the club for nine seasons and winning a record-equaling six Copeland Trophies (Best and Fairest). He also claimed the prestigious Brownlow Medal in 2003 and earned seven All-Australian selections.
Following his playing career, Buckley went on to coach Collingwood from 2012 to 2021, leading the club to a Grand Final appearance in 2018 and narrowly missing out on premiership glory in one of the most thrilling deciders of the modern era.
Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, Buckley appeared humbled by the gesture.
“I never imagined something like this. I came to Collingwood hoping to leave a mark, and to now be honored in this way is deeply moving,” he said. “This statue isn’t just about me—it represents every teammate, coach, staff member, and fan who stood by this club during the highs and lows.”
Statue Design and Unveiling
The bronze statue will be crafted by renowned sculptor Lis Johnson, known for her work on numerous iconic sports figures across Australia. The design will capture Buckley in full stride, arms stretched, delivering a trademark pinpoint pass—symbolizing both his precision and vision on the field.
The club has confirmed the unveiling will coincide with a major home fixture in Round 23 at the MCG, expected to draw a crowd of over 80,000. A week-long celebration of Buckley’s legacy will precede the statue reveal, including special appearances, community outreach programs, and a tribute night hosted by former teammates and AFL dignitaries.
Fan Reactions
News of the statue has been met with overwhelming positivity from Collingwood fans, many of whom have long called for Buckley to receive a permanent tribute at the club.
“Nathan is our heart and soul. It’s about time this happened,” said lifelong member Tony Marchello outside the AIA Centre.
With the statue, Collingwood officially cements Nathan Buckley’s place in the pantheon of AFL greats—etched in bronze, but forever alive in black and white.
Stay tuned for more updates on the statue’s progress and unveiling event.
