Unfortunately under the arrangements for his temporary release, he had to be cleared back at the end of that season, in which he had scored well in the Brownlow voting. After notching another Sandover Medal in 1973, he rejoined North for their great era: 1974-1977, and played a key role in bringing two premierships to Arden Street. He was both dedicated and skilful, and masterly in his disposal, particularly by hand.

He won the Syd Barker Trophy, as North's Champion in 1970, and at his suggestion he became the first winner to be invested with a medal to mark his win, a practice that has since been retained, and was in 1994 extended retrospectively to all the club champions prior to his success.

The honours and awards that he won by his efforts on the field are virtually endless, but at least two deserve to be highlighted, his attaining All-Australian status and his winning of the Tassie Medal, as national champion.

After his return to WA, he had a successful stint as a coach, then he came back to North when summoned at short notice, following Malcolm Blight's resignation as coach during the 1981 season. He held that post until 1984, getting his side into the finals in 1982 and taking off the minor premiership in 1983. Unfortunately, North's third VFL premiership eluded him during those seasons.

Unquestionably one of North Melbourne's favourite sons, during his playing career, 1970 and 1974-1977, he appeared in a total of 116 games, and kicked 133 goals. Barry Cable has been honoured with life membership with the club. In 1996, he was named as a member of the AFL's Inaugral Hall of Fame.