EPIS, Alec

Alec Epis was a fine, dashing and vigorous half-back who came from the Mines Rovers FC in Boulder WA. He had to stand out of football for two years when he arrived at Essendon because of a clearance dispute.

He was strong, had a flair for the spectacular and was a powerful drop kick on the run. He was also renowned for holding the ball aloft after a mark.

"Kookaburra", as he was known because of his incessant chatter on the field, was one of the most colourful players in the League, and his 180 games over 11 seasons is testament to his durability.

He was was part of a brilliant half-back line with Barry Davis and Ian Shelton, and was one of Essendon's stars in the 1962 premiership win. He was on the wing in the 1965 premiership team. He also played for Victoria in 1960 and 1963.

Epis was Essendon's second top Brownlow Medal vote scorer in 1959 and 1963 (equal). He was also third top in 1960 (equal) and 1962. He also won the Club's Most Consistent Player award in 1959 and 1962 and the Best Clubman award in 1964.

He went out of the game on a high note after playing well in the 1968 finals series.

Epis knocked back the job of Reserves coach in 1970 and then joined the Club committee in 1972 and 1973 and in 1975 and 1976. He was chairman of selectors in 1975 and 1976.

He later wrote on football for The Truth and The Sunday Observer and was a panellist on GTV9.

He opened his own cleaning service in 1972 and later set up the 'Epis' and 'Epis and Williams' wineries and vineyards at Heathcote.

He has been a mentor and confidante for many young players and was a Club director from 1998 to 2008.