THERE was no fairytale finish to Chris Tarrant's career at ANZ Stadium on Friday night, but one of the club's first items of business after the disappointing defeat to the Swans was to pay tribute to a leader.

When the final siren sounded, confirming the Magpies' 2012 season was over, it brought the curtain down on the 32-year-old Tarrant's playing days in the AFL.

Coach Nathan Buckley addressed the Magpie players after the match and spoke about Tarrant's achievements during his 15-year career.

Suspended captain Nick Maxwell said Buckley spoke about Tarrant's contribution to the Collingwood Football Club, his "contribution to the lives of everyone involved in the football club" and "just how quickly 15 years can go by".

Tarrant made his AFL debut with Collingwood in 1998, but moved to Western Australia in 2007 and spent four seasons playing in purple with Fremantle.

He then returned to Collingwood for what would be the final two seasons of his career.

Maxwell said he has benefited from Tarrant's leadership and support as captain of the club.

"For me, on a personal note just the last two years having him back has just been outstanding," Maxwell said.

"The way that he has helped me and helped our group ... I couldn't speak highly enough of him for the contribution that he has made, in particular in the last two years."

Tarrant declined to be interviewed after the match.