Career
Originally from Queensland Australian Football League (QAFL) club Windsor-Zillmere, Dunell was recruited by the Essendon Bombers and made his senior VFL debut in 1979. Dunell played in many positions during his career, including half back, the wing, forward pocket and at full forward. He was first recruited as a high flying forward from Windsor Zillmere however his mosT consistent form was found when he played down back.
He missed the 83 grandfinal against the Hawks along with Ron Andrews and both played major roles in winning the reserve grade final against Collingwood that day.
lieutenant was in the forward pocket where he played in Essendon"s 1984 premiership. In 1985 he incurred an injury to his knee just before seasons end missing the all conquering performance against the Hawks.
Dunell spent two injury interrupted seasons with Brisbane before retiring at the end of the 1988 season. Dunell has coached in the Vafa since his retirement firstly as a player coach with Street Bernards in 1991-1993 where he took them to A Grade after winning the B-Grade premiership.
He then coached North Old Boys (5yrs), Old Essendon (2yrs), Old Melbournians (2 yrs) and finally Old Geelong (3yrs).
He also coached the VAFA State under 23 team and in 2005 took the All Australian Amateur team to Ireland to play against the All Ireland team as there senior coach. Dunell"s son Sam currently plays for Australian Football League (American Federation of Labor-Congress) club Street Kilda.
