Laurie grew up in North Melbourne and followed in his father Leo’s footsteps playing his first game for North Melbourne at the tender age of 17 yrs, coming from Captain of the Under 19 side into the seniors in round 7, 1956. He played 12 games that year and also played in an exhibition match for the Olympic Games. He was runner up in the Syd Barker medal that same year, such was the skill and talent of this young player. He would go on to win the Syd Barker trophy in 1961.

Laurie’s 13 seasons of football were a roller coaster ride where he had his share of illness, frustration and disappointments. He lost two seasons in 1959 and 1965 through illness, but came back to run third in the 1960 Brownlow medal and second the following year.

He once again demonstrated his determination for success after a long lay off in 1965 missing the first North Melbourne premiership in the night series. He returned to play in the 1966 night premiership side and followed up the following year in 1967 winning the Syd Barker trophy , and again be runner up in the Brownlow medal.

Laurie was affectionately known as ‘Twinkle Toes’, a nickname he obtained from his skills as a ballroom dancer. These smooth quick movements were a trademark of his football career.

Laurie toured with the first Harry Beitzel team to play gaelic football, and was also courted by the St George NRL side.

In 1970 suffering from glandular fever Laurie did not play his first game until round 15. He played the next six games reaching a milestone of 201, but then missed the last two games. His determination that year did not stop there, playing as captain of North Melbourne’s second side, leading them to a preliminary final.

Laurie’s contribution to North Melbourne continued over the next thirty years as a runner, administrator and recruiting manager. The Dwyer tradition continued with his two sons Anthony and David both playing for North.

Profile from 'The North Story'

VFL/AFL: 6695th player to appear
North Melbourne: 477th player to appear

More past player profiles

Current player profiles