'Never forgotten where he's from': Outback community pride for Crows legend

Former Adelaide Crows captain Taylor "Tex" Walker is set to retire at the conclusion of the 2026 AFL season after spending 19 years with the club. Friends and family of Walker laud his accomplishments, pointing to how he exemplifies the potential of young people from his hometown of Broken Hill. Walker expressed his desire to return to his hometown and lead the Broken Hill North Bulldogs to a premiership during the 2027 season in his retirement announcement.

Having begun his playing career in the outback NSW community of Broken Hill, Walker announced his retirement from the Adelaide Crows Football Club on Monday after 19 seasons playing for the AFL club. As a self-proclaimed "skinny kid from Broken Hill," Walker once helped the Bulldogs secure a 2007 premiership as a teenager, a testament to his ability to make a significant impact on the field.

However, Walker's legacy extends beyond his on-field success, as he has served as an inspiration for young people in the town. Kelly, one of Walker's close friends who still plays local footy in Broken Hill, highlighted Walker's role in putting the town on the map and showing kids that hard work and dedication can lead to achieving their dreams.

Walker's father, Wayne, remains living in the outback town and is proud of his son's grounded nature and unwavering connection to his roots. Walker's friend, Jayden Kelly, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Walker's resilience and loyalty to those around him, including his family and the town that shaped him.