Hundreds Gather to Honour Andrew Krakouer at Emotional Funeral as Friends and Family Pay Tribute

WARNING: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander readers are advised that this article contains images of a deceased person.

Andrew Krakouer, a former star for the Richmond Tigers and Collingwood Magpies, was celebrated as a “remarkable” individual during a funeral service held in Perth on Tuesday.

Krakouer sadly passed away in March, aged 42, due to heart failure.

He concluded his AFL career in 2013 with a total of 137 games played for both the Tigers and the Magpies.

“I recall first seeing him and thinking, ‘Wow, this brother is something special,'” reflected former teammate Héritier Lumumba during the service.

Krakouer kicked off his career in 2001, ultimately leaving Richmond when he was delisted in 2007.

Upon returning to Western Australia, he faced legal troubles in 2008, resulting in an assault conviction and subsequent jail time. He was released in August 2009 and played for Swan Districts in 2010.

It was at Swan Districts that he reignited his career, culminating in victory at the 2010 WAFL Grand Final, where he was named best on ground.

“His performance in that grand final is undoubtedly one of the most remarkable individual displays in WAFL history,” stated Brian Dawson, a former coach at Swan Districts.

Krakouer later transitioned to Collingwood, where he wrapped up his career with 35 games for the club in 2013.

After retiring from playing, Krakouer embarked on a media career, featuring on the Marngrook Footy Show and Yokayi Footy Show.

Megan Waters, his co-host on the latter show, expressed heartfelt sentiments about Krakouer.

“He confronted challenges courageously and with immense heart,” she remarked. “It’s time for you to rest now, see you in the dreamtime, brother.”

Jeanice Krakouer fondly remembered her relative as “a young man radiating warmth, kindness, and quiet resilience.”