Subiaco remembers the life of Peter Burton

Thursday, June 8, 2023 - 4:23 PM by Matt Paddick

The Subiaco Football Club is saddened to hear of the passing of club legend Peter Burton, at 76 years of age.

Burton was instrumental for the side in the 1970s, playing a role in the club’s triumphant 1973 Premiership.

Standing at 198cm, he showed speed beyond his height, and had the work ethic to be a successful footballer.

He worked well in tandem with Mike Fitzpatrick, but the ruckman at one stage of his career had claims to be the state’s best, having represented WA in 1975.

In the same year, he was honoured with the club Best and Fairest, and was the club captain during his career.

Following his playing days, Burton coached the side in 1979.

His legacy at the club spans generations. 

His three sons followed in their father’s footsteps, as Matthew (113 games), Jay (27), and Travis (23) all pulled on the maroon and gold.

Burton was always a popular clubman, and was honoured with Life Membership to the Subiaco Football Club.

While he wasn’t able to attend the club’s 50th Anniversary of the 1973 Premiership, he sponsored the West Perth table at the event, allowing players from the opposition on the day, including Bill Dempsey to attend.

The Premiership ruckman lived in America for a number of years, where he lived out the remainder of his time.

He is the first member of the 1973 Premiership team to pass.

Club stalwart and director Basil Fuller painted the picture of the famous number 20 as a great friend.

“He demonstrated as a player, club person, and leader, the high regard he attained at all levels of club operations.”