Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Dockers supporters could receive a major community boost after the City of Cockburn voted to set aside up to $100,000 for local events linked to Fremantle's AFL and AFLW teams. The decision comes with Fremantle sitting on top of the AFL ladder with a three game lead over the Sydney Swans and chasing a place in the 2026 Grand Final.
Councillors backed the proposal 7 to 2, with $50,000 allocated for Fremantle Dockers AFLW home game activities at Cockburn ARC Oval and another $50,000 reserved for community celebrations if the AFL side reaches the Grand Final.
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Council Split Over Funding
Deputy Mayor Phoebe Corke opposed allocating money for the men's team, arguing public funds should not support a professional sporting club, particularly after the council approved a 6.75 per cent rates increase.
She said, “While wishing the Dockers every success, this is not an appropriate use of ratepayer money.”
Councillor Chontelle Stone supported the proposal, saying Cockburn is the home of the Fremantle Dockers and the city should celebrate a Grand Final appearance if it happens.
She said the celebrations would benefit local cafes, restaurants, bars and retailers while bringing the community together, adding that the funding would only be used if the club reached the Grand Final.
Community Focus
Councillor Tom Widenbar said the money would not be handed directly to the Fremantle Dockers but used for community events around Cockburn Central.
The council also approved $124,822 from the events program surplus to employ additional temporary staff to help deliver community activities during the 2026 and 2027 season.
Cockburn ARC recently received a $7 million upgrade that included female and unisex changerooms, new spectator seating, umpire facilities, education spaces and a covered terrace with capacity for up to 250 spectators.
For more information on the AFL season, visit the official AFL website.