The crowning glory on the lifelong career of the legendary Ron Barassi was yesterday delivered by a grateful state, with the 50-game former Carlton footballer and dual premiership coach deservedly named Victorian of the Year.

Recognized for his bravery in coming to the aid of a woman under attack on New Year’s Eve this year, Barassi's six-decade involvement with the great Australian game has unquestionably earned him a special place amongst all Victorians as a treasured figure in the community.

In accepting the award as part of the Victoria Day celebrations at the Melbourne Town Hall, Barassi acknowledged the raising of his children as the true highlight of his life, along with his spectacular successes as both player and coach.

Barassi is not the first Carlton luminary to have earned Victorian recognition, at least in football terms.

The Alderman John Gardiner captained Victoria in its first inter-colonial match, against South Australia in 1879, while the great John Nicholls was the Big V's most decorated representative, having donned the state's coveted guernsey a record 31 times.

All connected with the Carlton Football Club extend their heartiest congratulations to Ron Barassi, who in his seven years at the helm as senior coach delivered the Blues from what was then their worst-ever standing of 12th in the centenary year of 1964, to the ultimate Grand Final successes of 1968 and 1970.