As anticipation builds for the AFL Origin match in Perth next Saturday, Western Australia's premier cultural institutions have launched special exhibits celebrating the rich history of State football. The WA Museum and State Library have both unveiled displays that honour the legacy of Western Australian football, providing fans with a nostalgic journey through the sport's most memorable moments.
Museum Showcases Inaugural Origin Memorabilia
The WA Museum has opened a display that features several significant artifacts from State football history. The centrepiece of the exhibition is Rob Wiley's jumper from the inaugural State of Origin clash against Victoria in 1977, a garment that symbolises the beginning of this celebrated football tradition.
Other notable items on show include a page from the Weekend News that proudly announces the Sandgropers' impressive 94-point victory over their visitors at Subiaco Oval. Accompanying this is an original match program from that historic day, complete with handwritten scores that capture the excitement of the moment.
On the day of the game itself, the museum will extend its celebration to Optus Stadium with a special display showcasing Western Australia's football heritage, allowing attendees to immerse themselves in the state's sporting legacy.
State Library Honors Graham 'Polly' Farmer
The State Library will open its own exhibit on Tuesday, focusing on the remarkable career of football icon Graham 'Polly' Farmer. This collection features several personal items from Farmer's distinguished career, including a telegram that informed him of his selection as the State's vice-captain.
Also on display is Farmer's Simpson Medal from the 1959 WAFL grand final, a prestigious award that recognises his outstanding contribution to the sport during that championship game. These artifacts provide a unique insight into one of Western Australia's most celebrated football figures.
Football Legends Preview Exhibitions
WA football legend Ron Alexander, who both played for and coached the State in Origin matches, joined Deputy Premier Rita Saffioti and Tourism Minister Reece Whitby for an early preview of the exhibits on Friday. Alexander expressed confidence in the current players' motivation ahead of the upcoming game.
"The players don't need any messages from anyone, they'll be going hard as," Alexander remarked. "It'll be a good game to watch."
Both WA's coach Dean Cox and assistant Justin Longmuir have emphasised their intention to draw upon the State's football history in their preparations, aiming to educate the current generation of Sandgropers about the achievements of those who previously wore the black and gold.
Future of State of Origin Football
AFL chief executive Andrew Dillon recently declined to commit to making State of Origin an annual event moving forward. However, Deputy Premier Rita Saffioti affirmed Western Australia's strong advocacy for hosting the showpiece event in Perth on a regular basis.
"We believe State of Origin has a role in modern-day football," Saffioti stated. "We're very keen to continue that relationship. Of course, Western Australia winning will help do that."
The combination of historical exhibitions and contemporary football excitement creates a perfect backdrop for what promises to be a memorable AFL Origin weekend in Western Australia.
