Collingwood has today welcomed tall forward Daniel McStay from the Brisbane Lions.

McStay will make the move back home to Melbourne as an unrestricted free agent. Brisbane Lions will receive a compensation selection to be determined by the AFL, which is currently a second round selection. 

McStay played 161 games and kicked 138 goals across nine campaigns with Brisbane. The forward played in all but three matches this year, including Brisbane’s three weeks of finals.

At 195cm tall, he was recruited from the Eastern Ranges by Brisbane in 2013 and was swung between the forward and backline, before establishing himself as a key forward. 

McStay will reunite with a familiar face at the Pies having started his football career under the guidance of Justin Leppitsch who was senior coach of the Lions from 2014 for three campaigns.

McStay thanked Brisbane for his time at the club.

“I thank the Brisbane Lions for the past nine years – for those who have nurtured me during my early years and moulded me into the footballer I am today,” McStay said.

“Melbourne is my home, but Brisbane will always hold a special place in my heart.

"Together, my partner and I, decided to move back home to Melbourne and I am so pleased to come to an agreement with Collingwood. It is where I want to be for the remainder of my football career.  

“I wish the Lions every success and will be watching with a keen eye.”

Collingwood GM of Football, Graham Wright, welcomed McStay to the club.

“We identified we needed more key position support, and Daniel’s attributes suit the way Craig and our coaching group want to play,” Wright said.

“He has the ability to play at both ends of the ground and he has been a more than adequate second ruck this year.

“We’re very happy to have Daniel on board. We welcome him and his family to the club.”