Drew Petrie, Nick Dal Santo and Michael Firrito also won’t play beyond this year’s finals series.

North Melbourne coach Brad Scott said not renewing their deals was the hardest decision of his coaching career.

“Boomer and the other three boys could have made contributions in 2017, but this football club is going on beyond 2017 and we need young players to get opportunities,” he said.

“If I had them on the list next year I would play them. It would mean that we’ve denied opportunities for young players for another year.

“We’ll continue to look at our options around trading and free agency and building our team.

“I love those four boys. If they’re there, I’ll play them but I don’t believe that’s in the best interests of the football club.”

Scott said the boys would be farewelled in the vein of the club legends they are. 

“We were determined to give their players the opportunity for their fans and family and loved ones, along with the fans and supporters to farewell them in Melbourne,” he said.

“To the boys’ credit — while they’re all disappointed the can understand where the football club’s coming from.

“I understand the fans will be disappointed, particularly with some of the players.”

Harvey’s illustrious career in the royal blue and white has spanned an incredible 21-seasons.

Currently with a record 430 games under his belt and 516 goals, Harvey’s list of achievements also includes a premiership in 1999, an EJ Whitten Medal, five All-Australian team honours and captaincy in 2008, a record five Syd Barker medals, North Melbourne Team of the Century and Shinboner of the Era (2005-2015).

A versatile key position player and All-Australian in 2011, he was the club’s leading goal-kicker five times in 2009, 2011, 2012, 2014 and 2015.

“Since arriving at Arden Street via the 2000 Draft, Petrie has epitomised North’s famed Shinboner Spirit with his team first attitude and courage,” the club said in a statement.

Petrie, 33, became just the fifth North player to reach the 300-game milestone and represented Australia in the International Rules in 2008.

Firrito, 32, is a fierce competitor who never takes a backward step. Stoic in defence, he has been a galvanising force that held the club together in the toughest of times.

“Often given roles on much larger opponents down back, ‘Spud’ has been a standout since being elevated off the club’s Rookie List in 2003 and is considered the ultimate club-man due to his unparalleled courage  and bravery,” the statement said.

He won a Rising Star nomination in 2004 and represented Australia in the International Rules series in 2008.

After crossing to North from St Kilda, Dal Santo's (32) leadership, skill and class helped catapult the Roos into three consecutive finals campaigns including two preliminary finals in 2014 and 2015.

A smooth mover and elite ball user, he has played more than 300 games.

An All-Australian on three occasions, ‘Dal’ also featured in three Grand Finals and was runner-up for the Brownlow medal in 2011.

The club said it was indebted to these four individuals for their professionalism, leadership, attitude and competitiveness.