A stirring street-art mural was unveiled in the heart of Brunswick Street on Friday to celebrate Fitzroy’s rich VFL/AFL history, which lives on today through the Brisbane Lions.
The mural, which was painted by local artist Damien Arena, features Club icons Kevin ‘Bulldog’ Murray and Jonathan Brown, can be found on the Royal Derby Hotel – near the corner of Alexandra Parade and Brunswick Street in Fitzroy (Alexandra Parade side).
It is located only a short walk away from the Lions’ spiritual home in Melbourne – the Brunswick Street Oval – which still hosts Fitzroy Football Club’s amateur men’s and women’s matches.
Living Legend Murray, who is widely regarded as “Mr Fitzroy”, still holds the long-standing record for most games at the Club (333), boasts an equal VFL/AFL record nine best and fairest awards, and famously won the 1969 Brownlow Medal.
Moreover, he epitomises everything Fitzroy and was thrilled to become a permanent fixture in the community.
“I only lived a few streets from here as a kid and my Auntie Mary was actually a barmaid at the Royal Derby Hotel many years ago,” Murray recalled.
“My dad also had a tailor shop just up the road, so it brings back so many memories for a man that’s heading towards 82 years of age.
“(The mural) is wonderful – and it’s terrific to be on it with someone like Browny.”
Brown, who grew up supporting Fitzroy and whose father Brian played 50 games with the Club, completes the mural’s evolution as the modern-day ‘Lion King’.
He played 256 matches with the Brisbane Lions (including three premierships in 2001-03), booted 594 goals, won three best and fairest awards and was last year inducted into the Club’s Hall of Fame.
“It’s not every day you get your face painted on a mural,” Brown said.
“It looks magnificent, and it’s an absolute honour to be featured alongside the great man ‘Bulldog’.
“We’re in the heart of Fitzroy, and ‘Bulldog’ only grew up a couple of blocks away from here. I’m sure he’s spent a few nights here at the Royal Derby Hotel over the journey.
“He’s one of my great heroes. He’s a legend of the football club, and to be in the same mural as him is just such an honour.”
Both Murray and Brown were also thrilled with how they were presented by the artist.
“He made us look younger. He did a marvellous job and I’m very grateful to feature on this amazing work of art,” Murray said.
“It’s unbelievable. I think he’s probably pumped my arms up a little bit, which I’m not going to complain about,” Brown said.
Lions fans will get plenty of opportunities to see the mural for themselves, with the Royal Derby Hotel committed to continue hosting supporter events and screening matches live as the Club’s official social venue in Melbourne.
As proud partner of both the Brisbane Lions and Fitzroy FC, the mural further strengthens the Royal Derby Hotel’s commitment to football in the community.
You can follow the work of artist Damien Arena by following him on Instagram @da.imagemaker or checking out his website
