After three outstanding seasons at Langtry Oval, Gornall yesterday confirmed the Farrer League’s worst-kept secret by making public his decision to leave the Bombers because of work commitments in Griffith.

Put simply, Gornall – who poured his heart and soul into the club – cannot be replaced.

He enjoyed a decorated career with the Bombers that included successive best-and-fairest victories in 2006 and 2007 as well as claiming last season’s Gerald Clear Medal.

Both respected and feared by his rivals, Gornall is the perfect mix of height, speed and strength.

He is a big-game player, who stood tall on countless occasions for his team.

In 2007, undoubtedly his most notable campaign for the Bombers, Gornall was untouchable on the field and almost single-handedly guided them to a Farrer League grand final appearance.

And despite being restricted by nagging injuries and spending long stints on the sidelines this season, he continued to lead from the front with distinction.

Gornall admitted calling time on his playing days at the club was extremely tough.

“I am disappointed to leave Marrar,” he said.

“I came down from the Gold Coast three years ago and have been able to win the league medal and a couple of best-and-fairest awards and played some good footy along the way.

“We made finals for the first time in quite a few years and did really well last season, but

unfortunately couldn’t take the next step this year.

“We just didn’t have the cattle after losing so many players in the off-season. But it’s definitely sad because I feel like I’m leaving my home club.”

Gornall also put the interests of the Bombers ahead of his own.

After being assistant coach in 2006 and 2007, he was named senior mentor at the start of this season. The 28-year-old was initially unsure whether or not to accept the full-time job and the pressures associated with it.