Like many members, my Hawthorn story is my family's story; beginning when my father arrived from Italy in 1961. Uncle Joe lived near Glenferrie Oval, took Dad to a game and we’ve been brown and gold ever since.

With my 20 year parliamentary career coming to an end, I want to give back to the Club that’s given my family so much. 

Sam and Bec are doing a great job and have my full support. But we need to get the off-field right to deliver on-field success.

The Kennedy Community Centre is an exciting development. I will use my government experience to get the KCC established and ensure we have positive relationships with governments into the future. 

As a 29-year member, I support greater member engagement, so families like mine enjoy being part of the Hawthorn family.  That includes working to ensure our culture reflects our family club values and we are inclusive for all members, staff, current and former players, including First Nations players and their families.

Hawthorn thrived after the merger vote, because members fought for our Club. People like Ian Dicker who I worked closely with in efforts to save Waverley. I’m enormously grateful for his support.

“I have known James for 25 years and his experience from grass roots to government leadership means he will be ideal as a Hawthorn director.”

- Ian Dicker.

I will work every day to help the Hawks be successful and our culture respected, so we’re all proud to be Hawthorn.

James Merlino