Melbourne is hosting an influx of Fremantle Dockers supporters ahead of the AFL Grand Final, as the team stands one victory away from securing its first premiership in its 32-year history. The Dockers will face the Brisbane Lions in Saturday’s match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), generating intense excitement among fans and former club officials alike.
Richard Goyder, former AFL commissioner and outgoing chairman of Woodside, a major sponsor of the Dockers, reflected on the club’s long journey since its first grand final appearance in 2013, when the team was defeated by Hawthorn. Now free from commission obligations, Goyder openly expressed his enthusiasm and nervous energy as he prepared to watch the game with his family, all decked out in the team’s purple colors.
Supporters have traveled from Western Australia in large numbers, with thousands flying across the Nullarbor Plain, others driving in groups known as “Wharfie Wagons” or hiring buses to join the masses at the MCG. The fervor includes spirited chants of “Wharfie Time,” a rallying cry heard throughout the season and now echoing interstate. Fremantle’s fan base is noted for its working-class roots and strong local identity, distinguishing it from rival clubs.
The community impact has extended beyond the sports realm. Several families have withdrawn their children from school to attend the final, contradicting the expectations of Western Australia’s Education Minister Sabine Winton, who urged students to prioritize attendance. Meanwhile, schools such as Mater Dei Catholic College have enforced strict policies, disallowing test resits for students absent due to the match. In contrast, WA Deputy Premier and Fremantle supporter Rita Saffioti, who traveled with her children to Melbourne, emphasized the importance of experiencing the event firsthand, highlighting the challenge of logistics given the match’s location outside Western Australia.
Saffioti, a foundation club member, described the shared bond among Dockers supporters as close-knit and sometimes misunderstood by outsiders. She also noted a shift in public perception of the club, citing increased respect due to the team’s resilience and character throughout the season. Former Fremantle captain and current radio host Peter Bell acknowledged the mental and physical challenge the Dockers face in overcoming Brisbane, whose players bring extensive finals experience in pursuit of a third consecutive title.
On the opposing side, Brisbane Lions board member Cathie Reid pointed to the strong Victorian following for the Lions, attributed partially to their historical ties with the Fitzroy Football Club. Reid, who arrived in Melbourne from London on game day morning, expressed personal excitement, coinciding with her birthday and a celebratory atmosphere within the Lions community.
Among the visitors was Dale Alcock, former Fremantle board member and owner of a major home building company, who described the club’s rise as hard-fought and without special advantages. He echoed widespread optimism that this year's team has earned confidence going into the final.
With the MCG anticipated to feature many neutral supporters among its corporate and club members, Goyder suggested the crowd might be ready to see a new champion crowned. Both teams enter the grand final carrying high stakes and passionate fan bases, eager to witness a historic conclusion to the AFL season.