Melbourne Demons CEO Gary Pert Resigns Amid Club Turmoil
Pert's departure follows a period of instability and precedes findings from two critical reviews into the club's operations.
- Gary Pert, CEO of the Melbourne Demons, has announced his resignation, effective at the end of the year, but will continue as a consultant for the club's new training base project.
- The resignation comes during a turbulent period for the club, which has faced consecutive early finals exits and missed the top eight this season.
- Joel Smith, a Melbourne player, is facing a potential four-year ban due to a positive cocaine test and trafficking allegations, casting further shadow over the club.
- Christian Petracca, despite previous desires to leave, has committed to staying with the Demons for the 2025 season, amidst ongoing concerns about the club's culture.
- Former All Blacks manager Darren Shand has been enlisted to review the football department as the club undergoes significant leadership and structural changes.