He began his senior footballing at the Fitzroy Lions in 1988. He was an intimidating player in defence even from the beginning with his good marking skill and strength in a tackle. He was not noted for his goal kicking early though, that skill would develop later on.
He moved on from Fitzroy in the early 90's to join the then struggling Brisbane Bears who were coached by Premier ship coach Robert Walls at the time.
Lynch came full of promise to the club but could not deliver his best on most occasions due to a severe chronic fatigue illness that put him totally out for the entire 1995 season. Critics have been found commenting that if Alistair had of played that season, then the Bears could of won a premiership.
His return the following season was shacky with him playing at full foward and at full back when needed. Tony Lockett quoted that Lynch was one of his toughest ever opponents at full back.
When Fitzroy merged with the Bears in 1997, Lynch was made a Forward at most times but was quiet for the next two seasons due to minor recurrence of his illness.
A new beginning for Lynch and the Lions came in 1999, under champion coach Leigh Matthews. He played some games in defence but overall up at full forward. His goal kicking had improved and his knowledge was unbeatable at most times.
Endured great success for the 2001, 2002, and 2003 seasons becoming a mutiple goal kicker against the games premium full backs, Stephen Silvagini, Darren Gaspar, and Andrew Dunckley. Lynch now has played in three winning premierships.