In a significant roster update, Collingwood Football Club has officially locked in former St Kilda forward Tim Membrey, marking a new chapter for the seasoned 30-year-old as he joins the Magpies as a delisted free agent on November 1. This strategic move, confirmed by Channel 7 AFL reporter Mitch Cleary, comes after Membrey passed the necessary medical examinations, ensuring he’ll be ready to suit up in black and white for the 2025 season.
Membrey’s nine-year tenure with St Kilda saw him play 167 games and notch an impressive 280 goals. Despite his consistent performance, St Kilda did not extend a new contract, leaving Membrey to explore alternative paths. Although there was interest from clubs like Essendon and Carlton, Collingwood moved swiftly to secure his talents, seeing Membrey as a valuable addition to their forward line. This acquisition strengthens Collingwood’s roster, providing needed depth as the club prepares for another competitive season.
In the latter half of the 2024 season, Membrey displayed strong form with 30 goals across 19 games, making it his seventh season achieving that tally. Despite a midseason stint in the VFL, Membrey bounced back with remarkable performances, scoring 14 goals in the final six rounds. This surge of momentum caught Collingwood’s attention, reinforcing the Magpies’ belief that Membrey could provide critical support in their forward line, especially as they aim for the premiership.
Collingwood’s list manager, Graham Wright, underscored the importance of bringing in experienced players to bolster the club’s forward setup. With key players like Brody Mihocek nearing retirement age and Dan McStay recovering from an ACL injury, the need for a reliable, seasoned forward became increasingly pressing. Membrey’s versatility positions him as a fitting addition, potentially playing alongside Mihocek or stepping in as a third tall option. The club hopes he can contribute 20-30 goals and enhance their performance during the finals.
This move aligns with Collingwood’s strategy to prioritize immediate success. With other key acquisitions like All-Australian Dan Houston and versatile GWS player Harry Perryman, the Magpies are setting the stage for a strong 2025 campaign. Membrey’s addition to the roster, especially with ten Collingwood players expected to be over 30 next season, signals a calculated push for premiership contention.
As the 2025 season approaches, Membrey’s journey from his early days with the Sydney Swans to his successful stint with St Kilda, and now to Collingwood, showcases his adaptability and potential impact. With Collingwood’s focus shifting toward solidifying its roster, the team is well-positioned for a compelling run next season, with Membrey anticipated to play a key role.