The Sydney Swans are mourning the loss of much-loved member Julie Pash, who has died at the age of 88.

Julie and her husband Graeme hosted Sydney Swans athletes and their families in their home for legendary Christmas parties that were inducted to the Swans Heritage list in 2016.

The first of the parties was held around Christmas time in 1992, to provide staff and players with a circuit breaker from a poor season.

As the years passed, the number of attendees grew from 10 to more than 200. For many newly drafted players and their parents, it was their first taste of Sydney.

The Pash Family Christmas parties became a rite of passage for players and staff alike, with attendance at this annual function confirming you really were part of the Swans family.

Due to Graeme’s ill health, the last of these parties was held in 2008.

Graeme had a 20-year association with the Swans and was the club’s Deputy Chairman from 1993 until 2002. He passed away in 2008 after a long battle with illness.

The club extends its deepest condolences to Julie’s family, especially David, Alison, Michael and Anthony.