THE Fremantle Dockers’ decision to extend their sponsorship agreement with energy company Woodside is a “continuing horror” according to celebrated doctor and former Australian of the Year Fiona Stanley.

The new partnership extension will see Woodside a co-major sponsor of the Dockers until at least the end of 2027, an additional two years on top of their original agreement. 

The announcement has been criticised by several prominent community members who say Woodside’s record of environmental damage through their energy operations is “saddening”. 

Prof Stanley says Woodside’s sponsorship is the antithesis of what an “iconic” football club should promote. 

• Protesstors outside the Dockers AGM.

Idols

“Footballers are very powerful people, because everyone idolises them, so this should be an opportunity for the Club to come out and take a stand against environmental destruction,” Prof Stanley said. 

“I remember when we had cigarette and alcohol companies supporting sporting events… we need to stop sending the message that companies like Woodside are all part of good health.”  

Fremantle Greens candidate Sophie McNeill says the decision is “trashing” the “wonderful social justice brand” of the Dockers, who have a notable record of community engagement. 

“Our town has such a strong social justice history, and our club has always reflected that,” Ms McNeill said. 

“It was one of the first clubs to embrace Welcome to Country, pride round, and AFLW. 

“What’s so gutting for many Freo fans about this decision is that we all know that this is not what Freo is.”

Ms McNeill called out Dockers CEO Simon Garlick for the decision, saying it was “deeply disappointing” that Mr Garlick, who hails from Victoria, didn’t understand the club’s history and place in the Fremantle community. 

“I still don’t think he really gets what our town is all about and what we stand for,” Ms McNeill said. 

“For people like Garlick, this is just a football club, but for many Freo residents this is a way of life, and he doesn’t get that and this decision reflects that.

“It just shows such a lack of leadership…unfortunately, Simon Garlick has decided to roll over and pay more attention to his corporate buddies in the rich end of town, rather than the diehard Freo fans who care deeply about our planet and protecting it.”

by KATHERINE KRAAYVANGER