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The tortured history powering Freo's premiership push

The Dockers have won just three quarters in three finals and now face Brisbane in a bid to end a 32-year premiership drought.

  • On Saturday, September 26, 2026, Fremantle Dockers fans are descending on the Melbourne Cricket Ground for the AFL Grand Final against the Brisbane Lions, marking the team's second-ever premiership decider appearance.
  • After a 32-year premiership drought, supporters hope the Dockers can finally secure a maiden flag; the club's only previous Grand Final appearance in 2013 ended in defeat to Hawthorn.
  • Fans are traveling by road and air, with some paying $1,700 for chartered "Docker Fokkers" flights; BackChat podcaster Seb Clarke is driving the "Wharfie Mobile" across the 3,000 kilometre Nullarbor to reach Melbourne.
  • Transport Minister Rita Saffioti announced free public transport across Perth on Saturday to accommodate up to 40,000 fans gathering in Fremantle. Police confirmed "a strong police presence, particularly in Fremantle" to ensure safety.
  • Facing a Brisbane team hunting their sixth flag and second three-peat premiership, Fremantle coach Justin Longmuir emphasized "winning more moments than the opposition" before the 12:30 pm WST bounce on Saturday.
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15 Articles

ABC AustraliaABC Australia
Lean Left

For so long an underdog, front-running Freo ready to claim first flag

After years of being an underdog and an afterthought in AFL premiership talks, Fremantle is ready to take centre stage with its breakthrough triumph.

·Ultimo, Australia
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PerthNowPerthNow
Center

The tortured history powering Freo's premiership push

Fremantle are one of few clubs left without an AFL premiership, having weathered 32 years of painful memories and growing pains en route to this grand final.

·Osborne Park, Australia
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7NEWS Australia7NEWS Australia
Lean Right

Purple army set to pour into Fremantle for do-or-die Dockers decider

The port city is preparing for Saturday’s AFL grand final to be its biggest event since the America’s Cup.

·Australia
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So PerthSo Perth
Center

Public Transport Is Free Across Perth On Grand Final Day

Taking a bus or train to a Grand Final watch party won't cost you a cent, with the Cook Government making public transport free for the day. Here's what you need to know.

Read Full Article
The West AustralianThe West Australian
Lean Right

‘Unbelievable scenes’: How Freo stars reacted to fan frenzy

Luke Ryan has revealed how Dockers players reacted to the wild scenes of fan celebrations, Shaun McManus’ premiership cup presenter honour, and more.

·Osborne Park, Australia
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Sydney Morning HeraldSydney Morning Herald
+4 Reposted by 4 other sources
Lean Left

WA news LIVE: Freo fans bound for the MCG

Follow our live coverage here.

·North Sydney, Australia
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  • 45% of the sources lean Left
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PressNewsAgency broke the news on Sunday, September 20, 2026.
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