North Melbourne list manager Brady Rawlings abruptly walked out of the press conference announcing Nick Blakey’s arrival as a Roo.
The defender has signed a mega contract believed to be worth $12 million over eight years.
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It is a big coup for the Kangaroos but what was supposed to be a celebratory unveiling ended on a sour note.
Rawlings was grilled on questions surrounding Blakey’s character and professionalism – having been suspended by the Sydney Swans – and whether the women’s team were consulted about the acquisition.
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One journalist then made a reference to former North Melbourne player Tarryn Thomas, who was sacked by the club in 2024 after the AFL found him guilty of inappropriate behaviour towards a woman.
“Are you worried you could have another Tarryn Thomas situation (on your hands)?” the journalist asked Rawlings.
“I don’t know why that would come into play at all,” replied Rawlings.
That was enough for Kangaroos media manager Mick Tormey, who quickly stepped in and called an end to the questioning.
Rawlings then left the podium, momentarily appeared to consider a return, before walking out of the room with Tormey.
“I reckon we might call it here. We’re just getting the same questions over and over,” Tormey said.
“That’s it, thanks guys.”
Blakey apologised for the circumstances in which his Swans career ended as he spoke for the first time following the trade.
“I want to say that I’m sorry for the events that led up to my exit from Sydney,” he said.
“I know I have to win back the trust of the broader community, football and otherwise.
“Now I have the opportunity to move forward and I want to thank North Melbourne for helping me find a fresh start.
“I’m grateful I have landed at a place that has such deep connections to me and my family.
“There is so much potential in this group and I’m looking forward to getting to work to help take North Melbourne forward.”
Originally published as North Melbourne chief abruptly walks out of press conference announcing Nick Blakey arrival