Over the next week, kangaroos.com.au will be looking back at each month of the home and away season, recapping the biggest stories around Aegis Park throughout 2011 - (Click on the blue text to view the stories)

With the season all but over, Daniel Wells and Lachie Hansen decided to pull the pin early for shoulder surgery.

Opportunity knocked for those wanting to impress in the final round and it was a dream debut for Aaron Black who kicked a goal in the opening quarter against the Tigers.

Hamish McIntosh was back for his first game of the year, Brady Rawlings was honoured in the finest way possible with a close fought win, but Brad Scott wasn't satisfied with another ninth-placed finish.

McIntosh reinforced his intention to stay at North Melbourne, while Ben Ross was the hero in Werribee's Elimination Final against Box Hill.

Drew Petrie received a remarkable sixth nomination for Mark of the Year and he along with Daniel Wells, Andrew Swallow and Todd Goldstein, were also nominated for All-Australian honours.

North delisted five players including Ross and Ed Lower, while Wells experienced a serious health scare following surgery. The club's loyal fans expressed their well wishes via kangaroos.com.au.

Veteran Daniel Pratt was the star for North Ballarat in its Semi-Final win and the Tigers were through to the Preliminary Final with victory over Casey.

Cam Richardson capped off a strong year with a sixth-placed finish in the VFL's Liston Trophy, but the club's two affiliates were both knocked out at the final hurdle.

Petrie capped off a brilliant year with selection in the All-Australian team, while Aaron Edwards received reward for an ultra-consistent season with a new contract. Scott Thompson also penned a new deal.

Swallow was also recognised among the game's best with 16 votes in the Brownlow Medal, while Darren Crocker was named the top assistant coach in the league.

North Melbourne received increased support for its push into Tasmania with RACT throwing its weight behind the deal to play two games in Hobart.