Jim Baird

Recruited from local junior club Princes Hill, Jim Baird was a gifted all-round athlete whose football career was defined by remarkable versatility. Known as "Gentleman Jim," he possessed the speed of a professional sprinter—having competed in the Stawell Gift—and the skills of a first-class cricketer, eventually representing Victoria in the Sheffield Shield. Although his early years were interrupted by military service during World War II, Baird established himself as a true utility capable of playing on every line. While initially used as a spearhead who could boot heavy scores, including a ten-goal haul against Richmond in 1943, he famously reinvented himself as a defender upon returning from injury in 1945.

Baird's legacy at Carlton is cemented by his vital contributions to two premiership sides in vastly different roles. In the infamous "Bloodbath" Grand Final of 1945, he stood firm in a back pocket during one of the most violent matches in league history. Two years later, he returned to the forward line for the 1947 decider, kicking three crucial goals in a thrilling one-point victory over Essendon. He remained a fixture in the senior side until 1951, playing his final match in the controversy-filled game that saw opponent John Coleman reported, before departing to captain-coach Mentone in the Federal League.