Fremantle embraces purple ahead of Dockers’ grand-final bid
Fremantle has transformed into a sea of purple as the Dockers prepare to face Brisbane in an AFL grand final. The city has organised watch parties, closed roads and free public transport, while local businesses, schools and artists have joined supporters celebrating the club’s historic opportunity.
Fremantle has turned purple ahead of the Fremantle Dockers’ AFL grand final against the Brisbane Lions, with the Western Australian city preparing for a major public celebration. The match is scheduled for Saturday, September 26, and the Dockers are attempting to make club history. Flags and signs have appeared throughout the city centre, while supporters have adopted purple scarves and clothing.
Local artist Jerome Davenport painted a large mural honouring the team on the facade of Sailing for Oranges, completing the work in four days. Businesses have joined the build-up by selling purple versions of food and drink, including cannoli, ice cream, beer, hot dogs and sausages. A local school temporarily renamed itself Fremantle Dockers College and allowed students to wear purple on Friday in exchange for a gold coin donation to the Starlight Children’s Foundation.
Principal Stan Koios said the school wanted to participate in the enthusiasm surrounding the club. The report said public screens had been installed at several locations for a grand-final watch party, with 40,000 people expected to attend. Roads in central Fremantle have been closed, and public transport is free on the day.
The community response reflects the Dockers’ progress through the finals. They defeated Geelong 120-106 after earlier wins over Sydney and losses to Hawthorn and other opponents listed in the finals schedule. Brisbane reached the grand final after defeating Adelaide 144-91, according to the published results.
Supporters quoted by ABC News said the team had already earned a special place in the city, regardless of the result. Students and residents described the club’s growth and the strength of the community atmosphere around it. The mural, the report said, would preserve the occasion even if Fremantle does not win the premiership.
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