The Brisbane Lions are pleased to announce the appointment of Brisbane-based businessman Bob Sharpless as Chairman.

Mr Sharpless was elected to the position by his fellow Directors as part of a new-look Board that includes former Premiership-winning coach Leigh Matthews.

Mr Sharpless, the Deputy Chairman of the Springfield Land Corporation, was elected to the position after Directors Angus Johnson, Paul Williams and Linda Nash announced they would be leaving the Board, as part of a mediated agreement to resolve the Club’s Board dispute. Mr Johnson, Mr Williams and Ms Nash, as the Club’s longest-serving Directors, will leave the Board immediately. The Club would to thank Mr Johnson, Mr Williams and Ms Nash for the significant contribution they have made to the Brisbane Lions.

Mr Sharpless will Chair a Board that now includes Mr Matthews, Mick Power, Cameron Milner and Peter McGregor. Mr Matthews, who coached the Lions’ to three Premierships between 2001-2003, will join the Board as Football Director after being appointed as an expertise Director, in accordance with clause 9.14 of the Club’s Constitution.  

The mediated agreement was discussed at a regular Board meeting this morning and finalised tonight following lengthy discussions that also involved the AFL. The agreement confirms funding arrangements from the AFL for the Club. As a result of the resolution of this matter, there is no longer a need to hold the EGM, however, Members will still have an opportunity vote on the change to the rights of Life Members in the Constitution and on the Lions’ guernsey at December’s AGM.

Mr Sharpless will be introduced to members via lions.com.au tomorrow.