Ash McGrath has made it. Not for his obvious on-field ability or his feats in the world of AFL, but because a caricature has been drawn of him. That’s according to renowned caricaturist Paul ‘Harv’ Harvey with his tongue placed firmly in his cheek.

In an age where we’ve grown up with WEG posters and newspaper caricatures, cartoons have been as much a part of footy culture from the beginning as pies and the smell of Deep Heat.

And it’s for that reason why Harv believes footballers love having their caricature drawn.

“It comes back to that tradition. It’s almost like getting an article in the sports pages, it means you’ve sort of been taken seriously,” he said.

“You only draw blokes who’ve been around a while, they’re recognisable.”

But as a passionate Lion who grew up drawing his teachers and now loves drawing the Brisbane players, it was the fact McGrath has a head that makes caricaturists salivate, not his veteran status, which was enough for Harv to start doodling.

“It’s that little upturned nose, the larger than life, full-on character.”

He’s not afraid to tell it like it is when it comes to describing his subject’s features, and with right cause - he says he’s never had anyone upset with his version of their likeness.

Even a recent caricature of Fitzroy legend Kevin Murray in a men’s health book - completely nude with a strategically placed Brownlow Medal - drew praise from ‘Muzza’ himself, so one feels ‘Ooh Ahh’ has nothing to worry about.

Paul Harvey’s caricature of Ash McGrath will be one of many auction items featured at the upcoming Brisbane Lions Gala Auction evening presented by Hyundai where you’ll rub shoulders with the entire Lions team, enjoy a three course meal, premium drinks and fantastic entertainment. Tuesday August 14 at the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre.

Click Here for more information and to purchase tickets.