'I love you unashamedly': AFL great's powerful tribute to Danny Frawley

Tributes are flowing for the beloved Danny ‘Spud’ Frawley after the father, husband and AFL legend died 9 September.

Frawley was remembered at a private funeral service for family and friends at Kingston Town Hall, telecast on Fox Footy and played on large screens at Moorabbin Oval where mourning fans have gathered.

Tony Lockett, Garry Lyon, Eddie McGuire, Jason Dunstall, Wayne Carey and Eric Bana were among the mourners to arrive at Wednesday's service, described by master of ceremonies Hamish McLachlan as a celebration of Frawley's life.

There were many powerful speeches, including from mental health ambassador Wayne Schwass who paid tribute to his friend and pleaded with any person struggling with mental health issues to seek help.

“Keep investing, keep working, keep learning,” he said.

“And please, please, please listen to the advice of your doctor or clinician.”

“Spud, I love you unashamedly. I’m so proud of you,” he added.

Many were wearing a touch of blue as requested by the family in a tribute to Frawley's mental health battle and Beyond Blue.

After the service, a guard of honour will be formed at Moorabbin as a hearse carrying Frawley does a final lap of honour around the ground where he played 72 of his 240 AFL games.

Tributes flow for Frawley

Emotional tributes have flowed since Frawley died on Monday, September 9, in a single vehicle accident when the ute he was driving hit a tree near Ballarat.

Frawley, who spoke bravely of his battles with mental health issues in recent years, is survived by his wife Anita and their three daughters, Chelsea, Danielle and Keeley, along with his mother and five siblings.

The Saints' Moorabbin headquarters quickly became the focal point for the outpouring of grief following Frawley's death a day after on his 56th birthday.

A makeshift shrine was set up outside the club's main entry, with floral tributes, scarves and guernseys left by fans.

A pictorial tribute was also set up in a display case in the club's Hall of Fame.

Well known for his exploits on the field, then as a coach and media personality, the larger-than-life character became a strong advocate for mental health issues when he revealed his own battle with depression.

Instead of flowers, Frawley's family requested donations be sent to Beyond Blue.

With AAP

Readers seeking support and information about suicide prevention can contact Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636, Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467.