Miller is most widely regarded throughout the industry for his contribution to Australian Rules football in Western Australia, however he also played 80 matches with Fitzroy and was a regular member of the senior team during his stint between 1974-77.
Affectionately known as ‘Serge’, he was recruited to Fitzroy as a star 24-year-old from Perth, having already been part of a WANFL premiership (1968), earned All Australian selection (1972) and won a Sandover Medal (1972).
A versatile half-forward and occasional rover, Miller made his debut for the Club in Round 1, 1974, against St Kilda at Moorabbin Oval and went on to average 23 disposals in his first VFL season.
He went on to play 64 of a possible 66 senior matches across the next three seasons with the Lions, before returning to Western Australia at the end of 1977 join East Perth. Miller would go onto to not only win the WANFL premiership in his first season with East Perth – defeating his former side, Perth, in the Grand Final – but also take home the Simpson Medal as best afield.
Miller also made an enormous contribution for more than three decades with the West Coast Eagles, first as part of their match committee and later in a critical player services and welfare role that he held right up until his recent retirement.
He’s a Life Member of both the AFL and WA Football, a member of Perth’s Team of the Century, and was inducted into the West Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2008.
The Brisbane Lions recognise Miller’s role in our Club’s history, and extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and teammates at this difficult time.
Vale Ian Miller
Fitzroy Football Club
Years: 1974-77
Debut Game: Round 1, 1974 vs St Kilda @ Moorabbin
Games: 80
Goals: 33
