John Nicholls' football life came full circle recently when the man acknowledged as Carlton's greatest ever player returned to Maryborough to where it all began.

"Big Nick" took the sentimental journey back to the Maryborough Highland Society, to be inducted as a legend into the Goldfields Region Sports Association's Hall of Fame. In doing so, the 331-game triple premiership player, five time best and fairest and 31-game Victorian player became the second legend to be inducted, behind Maryborough's Jack Worrall - Carlton's inaugural coach and the first coach in VFL history.

The Association's presentation to Nicholls was made in the company of members of Maryborough's local sporting community including past award winners, all Hall of Fame inductees, the Mayor of Maryborough and local dignitaries.

Also in attendance were former Carlton footballers Rod Ashman, Chris Pavlou, Gary Higgins and John's older brother, Don Nicholls, as well as local identity Mrs Joan Craigie who cared for the Nicholls boys in the early days and whom "Big Nick" regards as his second mother.

Mrs Craigie and Don Nicholls both recounted their memories of the early days when "Big Nick" first turned out for the Church of England Under 18 team and the since-dispanded Primrose outfit, before representing Maryborough and ultimately Carlton.

Photos: Celebrating "Big Nick's" induction into the Hall of Fame are, left to right, Don Nicholls, John Nicholls, Chris Pavlou, Rod Ashman and Gary Higgins.

John Nicholls rubs shoulders with Mrs Joan Craigie who once looked after the Nicholls boys. Mrs Craigie made the official presentation to Nicholls on the night, with "Big Nick" referring to her as his "second mum".

Images courtesy Maryborough District  Advertiser, photographer Ian Powell