Western Derby named as the State heritage icon

20/8/04
Western Australia's number one footy match - the Western Derby - has been named as the eighth heritage icon as part of the State's 175th Anniversary celebrations.
Premier Geoff Gallop said the icon listing, which was recommended by the National Trust, was in recognition of its key social importance to the State.
Dr Gallop made the announcement on the eve of one of the most crucial Derby matches to date - which could determine which WA team would make it to the finals.
"There is no doubt that Western Australians have a love of the game," he said.
"Both Dockers and Eagles fans are very passionate about their teams - and this passion is most intense at Western Derby.
"Since the Dockers entered the AFL in 1995, WA footy fans have become gripped by the Derby.
"While we are always proud of giving an interstate team a thumping, there is something about the Derby that draws out the best in both sides."
The Premier said today's announcement also recognised the link to the rich heritage of the Fremantle derbies that had been played in the WA Football League since early last century.
"In its early days, as well as being intensely competitive, it was also a fairly violent match where emotions ran high," Dr Gallop said.
"Most of the players during the week worked side by side on the wharfs, yet when it came to the two clubs playing each other, all friendships were forgotten and it was winning that mattered.
"It is hoped that this tradition, minus the unnecessary violence, will continue through the growing tribal rivalry of the Eagles-Dockers clashes."
The West Coast Eagles have dominated the Derby matches, winning 14 out of the 19 games played so far.
The Fremantle Dockers won their first Western Derby in July, 1999 and picked up their last victory by 10 points in May this year.
The Derby follows the listing of other key parts of WA: the Swan River, Fremantle Harbour, Kings Park, the Albany ANZAC Dawn Service, Rottnest Island, Broome Pearls and Ningaloo.
Premier's office: 9222 9475