Former Carlton boss Elliott dies after fall
BOARDROOM buccaneer and former Carlton Football Club president John Elliott has died aged 79.
The Melbourne-born, larger than life Elders IXL corporate baron, widely known for taking Foster’s to the world, died at Epworth Hospital on Thursday night.
Often caricatured for his larrikin nature, the outspoken Mr Elliott personified the largesse of the 80s.
As a former Liberal Party president, he was also once considered as a potential prime minister.
Elliott’s son, 3AW broadcaster Tom Elliott, confirmed the death on Thursday evening.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the death of John Dorman Elliott,” Tom Elliott said.
“He died Thursday evening at the Epworth Hospital in Richmond after a short illness.
“Dad will be greatly missed by his four children Tom, Caroline, Edward and Alexandra. Their children Henry, Sebastian, India, Ava, Lottie and Mathilda will remember forever their “Grandpa Jack”.
“Also in mourning are John’s brother Ross, sister-inlaw Jenny, former partner Joanne and second wife Amanda. They are joined in grief by numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren and other close relatives. “Vale Dad.”
Elliot was said to be in poor health after suffering a fall recently.
He was an iconic but controversial figure at Carlton, where he was president from 1983 to 2002.
During his time in charge of the club, the Blues won two premierships in 1987 and 1995.
Elliott was voted out as president of Carlton after the 2002 AFL season when the club was found to have breached salary cap conditions, which resulted in almost $1m in fines and other sanctions.
Federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg was one of several politicians who paid tribute to Elliott on social media.
“Very sad to learn of the passing of former Liberal Party & @CarltonFC President John Elliott,” he wrote on Twitter.
“He was a proud Victorian and a larger than life figure.
Victorian Liberal leader Matthew Guy said: “Farewell John Elliott. Liberal legend, devout Carlton FC man, unashamedly proud of Melbourne and Victoria.”