A fierce competitor with unlimited courage, Nathan Burke’s attack on the ball was without equal. The helmeted hero was earmarked for greatness from virtually the moment he arrived at the club, and he never let anyone down in that regard.

His versatility was demonstrated across his illustrious 323-game career through his ability to star as a winger, back-pocket, midfielder and forward. Burke was a natural leader – before and after his time as captain – and led by example through his toughness and bravery. He held the all-time games record for the club before it was surpassed by his good mate, Robert Harvey, in 2006.

The No. 3’s career was one of remarkable durability and aptitude for coming up trumps week after week, despite carrying injuries that would put others on the sidelines. He has been afforded most honours the game has to offer, including 11 Victorian representative honours, three Trevor Barker Awards, a place in St Kilda’s Team of the Century and induction as a Legend of St Kilda’s Hall of Fame.