Peter Bradbury

Recruited from Port Melbourne in the VFA, Peter Bradbury was a classic example of a mature-age recruit grabbing a second chance with both hands, having previously been delisted from Essendon’s reserves in the late 1970s. A dashing left-footed utility best known for his run off a half-back flank, he made an immediate impact upon his return to Windy Hill, winning the club’s Best First Year Player award in 1983 and playing a pivotal role in the Bombers’ drought-breaking 1984 premiership side. While renowned for his long, clearing kicks and ability to create a loose man in defence, Bradbury struggled to hold his spot during the dominant 1985 season. His career took a sharp turn early in 1986 when he became a central figure in the list management squeeze that brought Geoff Raines to Essendon, resulting in Bradbury’s controversial mid-season clearance to Collingwood. He played out the remainder of his VFL days at Victoria Park before returning to the VFA in 1988.