One of the most influential figures in the Geelong football landscape of the past 50 years will be honoured with AFL Life Membership.
The 70-year-old, who will be farewelled at a memorial service in Lorne tomorrow (Friday) afternoon, was informed of his life membership before his passing.
Turner, the son of 1951-52 Geelong premiership wingman Leo, played 245 games for the Cats between 1974-88, captaining the club between 1984-86.
He was named on one wing in Geelong’s Team of the Century, with his father on the other.
Following his VFL career, Turner coached Werribee in the VFA and was football manager of Bellarine club Barwon Heads, helping the Seagulls snap a 19-year premiership drought in 1993.
He was appointed talent manager of the fledgling Falcons in 1995 and spent the next 25 years in the role.
During his tenure at Highton Reserve, the Falcons produced countless AFL players, including 2017 TAC Cup grand final hero Gryan Miers.
The current Geelong small forward will be among the several hundred mourners expected at Turner’s memorial service.
“I’ve absolutely loved Mick,” Miers said on Wednesday.
“He’s given me some absolutely crazy sprays over the time, but he got me ready for AFL, and I’m very grateful for what Mick did for me.
“And what he did for the Falcons overall; It was just such a fantastic job and such a great place that I went and spent my time at.
“I know I’ll be attending with a few of the other Falcons boys on Friday to send him off in the right way.”
X: @krockfootball
