Essendon is mourning the passing of former Director and Life Member Daryl Jackson AO at the age of 89.

A renowned architect whose association with the Club began as an under 19s captain and reserves player, Jackson served on the Bombers’ Board from 2004 until 2015, where he played a central role in the establishment of the NEC Hangar facility and developments of the Windy Hill precinct.

Jackson’s architectural feats saw him earn the prestigious Australian Institute of Architects Gold Medal - the organisation’s highest honour. Their award for Educational Architecture has also been named in his honour since 2015.

In addition to his service as Club Director, Jackson also kept up his involvement in sport as a Committee Member and Vice President of the Melbourne Cricket Club throughout the 1990s, spearheading successful major redevelopments of the Southern and Northern Stands at the MCG.

Jackson was inducted as a Life Member of the Bombers in 2015.

Essendon President Andrew Welsh spoke to Jackson’s impact.

“We’re deeply saddened by Daryl’s passing,” Welsh said.

“He was a true Essendon person - not only signified in his Life Membership with the Club, but in so many facets - as a player during the VFL reserves era, a longtime Coleman Club member and as a key contributor on our board for over a decade.

“From a work perspective, Daryl was integral in the foundation of the NEC Hangar as the home base we know today, and from a character perspective he was always a fantastic person to be around throughout my playing career here.

“We send our condolences to Daryl's wife Kay and his wider family at this time.”