Veteran Hawk Jack Gunston has told Hawthorn of his desire to join Brisbane via free agency measures.
After spending the past 11 seasons at Bungil Bagora, the uncontracted forward has earned unrestricted free agency rights that he will use to make his way to the Gabba ahead of the 2023 season.
As first reported by Michael Gleeson of The Age, the 30-year-old was tabled a two-year deal by the Hawks, however, the ability to end his career contending for a fourth premiership has proven too strong to refuse.
Within a statement released from Hawthorn headquarters, Hawks head of football Rob McCartney expressed Gunston informed the club of his decision on Wednesday.
“We were always in open discussion with Jack and his management about his current position here at the club and what his future might look like,” McCartney stated.
“Today Jack informed us, after considerable thought, that he would exercise his right as a free agent to explore the market, and we respect that completely.
“Jack has been an incredible servant during his 11 seasons here at Hawthorn. He leaves the club as a three-time premiership player and a best and fairest winner, but more importantly, a person who is genuinely respected and loved by his teammates, staff and our Hawthorn fans.
“The Gunston family will always be part of the Hawthorn fabric and we thank them for contribution they have made to the brown and gold.”
Having tasted the ultimate success at Hawthorn alongside former skipper Luke Hodge and defensive pillar Grant Birchall, Gunston will now follow the pair's lead in trading Waverley for the Sunshine State.
Though current Lions head coach Chris Fagan remains embroiled in an ongoing investigation into his dealings whilst employed by the Hawks, Gunston is said to have stressed that any choice to join the pride would have little to do with Fagan's future.
Given Hawthorn will add Power winger Karl Amon to their roster via free agency measures, a compensation pick commensurate with the loss of Gunston is unlikely to arise.
Brisbane will also miss out on any compensation upon Daniel McStay's impending departure due to Gunston's arrival.
Since first joining Hawthorn via the trade table in 2011, Gunston went on the don the brown and gold on 211 occasions, slotting 410 goals in the process.
Gunston will depart the Hawks having claimed best and fairest honours in 2020, an All-Australian selection in 2018 and having led the club's goalkicking on three occasions between 2015 and 2020.
