A year after the shock axing of several beloved veterans, North Melbourne's AFL membership tally has dropped by 10 per cent.
The Kangaroos had 40,343 members as of July 31, down almost 5000 on last season's club record total of 45,014.
It brings to an end five consecutive years of membership growth, with their base doubling during James Brayshaw's nine seasons as club president.
Brayshaw was replaced by Ben Buckley in 2016 after reaching his term limit under the club's constitution.
The rebuilding Roos have managed just five wins this season, with their average home game attendance also well down on last season.
North dropped a bombshell on the eve of their AFL finals campaign last year, announcing that Brent Harvey, Drew Petrie, Michael Firrito and Nick Dal Santo would not have their contracts renewed.
Fans were shocked by the decision to cull AFL games record-holder Harvey, although the retired champion has since returned to Arden Street in a mentoring role.
Buckley said last week the Roos - who are expected to make a big play for off-contract stars Josh Kelly and Dustin Martin - aimed to get to 50,000 members within the next three to five years.
He also confirmed the club would be "very active" in the free agency market during the off-season.
Collingwood took back top spot with 75,879 members, edging out Richmond, Hawthorn, Essendon and West Coast.
The Bombers added more than 10,000 members after welcoming back a number of players who served doping bans last season, while reigning premiers the Western Bulldogs enjoyed 20 per cent growth.
Greater Western Sydney's on-field success helped them to increase their tally by 5000 members to reach the 20,000 mark for the first time.
But struggling expansion cousin Gold Coast's tally dropped nine per cent to 11,665.
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