Brownlow Medallist Nat Fyfe returned home on Wednesday to Lake Grace, where his incredible football journey started.
 
Hundreds of residents gave the star midfielder a worthy reception in the small Wheatbelt community as he arrived via the Seven News helicopter on Wednesday morning.
 
Fyfe, who is studying to become a helicopter pilot, took in plenty of sights on the two-hour trip from Jandakot airport.
 
He spent more than an hour signing autographs and posing for photos with the excited locals before heading to the local sports club for a Q and A session.
 
The club’s first Brownlow Medallist was happy to let the residents share in the award, encouraging children to wear ‘Charlie’.
 
Fans travelled from across the southern half of WA to meet their hero.

Fyfe wins Brownlow
 
Jemma Sanders and Shelby Andrews drove four hours from Esperance to Lake Grace.
 
“It’s very long but we’re so excited to come,” Jemma said.
 
“We left about 6.30am…we’ll have some lunch and then head back.”


 
Lake Grace – Pingrup Football Club co-president John O’Neil said Fyfe’s visit was inspiring for the club’s young players.
 
Fyfe learned the football craft at the club as a junior.
 
“Nat’s done us proud and he’s a great young man,” O’Neil said.
 
“He never forgets where he came from.

Bigger things to come for Fyfe

“Nat’s done a lot for the AFL…he’s flattened every soccer ball and brought more footballs into the town.”

Fyfe said it had been a whirlwind week after the Brownlow win last Monday night but he enjoyed sharing the experience with the community.

“Thanks everyone for turning up, “ he said.
 
“It’s great to be back here and see so many people.”
 
Fyfe will remain in town for a few days ahead of the club’s Doig Medal presentation on Saturday.