Long serving Essendon AFL Chaplain Allan Dunn was presented with SCA Life Membership at this years Compassion Australia and SCA Champions Dinner at the MCG.

National Board Member Lisa McInnes-Smith (pictured above with Joy Burke) read, “Ladies and gentlemen, I have the wonderful privilege, on behalf of the Board and Members of Sports Chaplaincy Australia to present Life Membership to one of our most outstanding, dedicated and selfless chaplains in Australia.”

Allan Dunn, in his early years, studied architecture; joined the air force; travelled with his new wife Barb to Ethiopia as missionaries where they gave birth to their first 3 children – having six kids in total. In 1966 Allan arrived back home to become a local church pastor in Melbourne.

Twenty-four years later, in 1990, Allan and Barb were asked by close family friends to take care of a young man named Gavin Wanganeen – having him move into the family home in Warrandyte. On driving him to and from training at the Essendon Football Club most days, then Senior Coach Kevin Sheedy asked Allan to be their club chaplain.

Allan happily agreed. Allan has served the club ever since. For over 27 years he has enjoyed Premierships in 1993 and 2000, helping staff and players through tough moments, including the recent drugs scandal, helping them come to know Jesus more personally and most recently transitioning former Adelaide Chaplain Mark Purser into the new senior chaplaincy role at the club.

Allan expressed his deep appreciation and gave thanks to God for His goodness and faithfulness to him and his family.

“It was a blessing to honour a man who loves and serves Jesus so profoundly.” said Lisa.