Image: Ron Walker handing the reins as Liberal Party treasurer to Malcolm Turnbull in 2002 (AAP)

Major Melbourne businessman, former lord mayor and ex-Grand Prix chairman Ron Walker has passed away at 78-years-old.

He was a key player in the development of Crown Casino.

The millionaire mogul had been battling a severe form of cancer for several years.

Harold Mitchell knew Mr Walker for some time and tells Ross Greenwood he was one of the bravest men he knew.

“It’s so sad Ross.

“I saw him two, three times a year and he was looking more frail, but he was a fighter.

“What a life, what an incredible man.”

Listen to the full interview