In brief
Robert Walls, an esteemed player and coach in the Australian Football League (AFL), passed away on Thursday at 74 after opting for voluntary assisted dying. A legend of the Carlton Football Club, Walls achieved significant success, winning three premierships as a player and one as a coach. Diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in 2023, Wall's final moments were spent surrounded by family in his Melbourne apartment, with a view of the Melbourne Cricket Ground, the home of AFL.
Walls had a remarkable career, comprising 14 years as a league player, 16 years as a coach, and a notable 25 years as a commentator. His family stated he faced cancer for over two years and ultimately chose to end a prolonged battle that had led to numerous hospitalizations. The Carlton FC paid tribute to him, highlighting his tremendous service to the game. He is survived by his three children and partner, Julie, following the death of his first wife, Erin, in 2006.
