WEST PERTH MOURNS THE PASSING OF THE GREAT POLLY FARMER

The West Perth Football Club wishes to pass on its deep sympathies to the Farmer families on the passing of the greatest legend of Australian football Graham ‘Polly’ Farmer. Farmer is an integral part of the rich fabric of football history at West Perth. 

Returning to Perth in 1968 the football world thought Farmer would return to his old club and major rival East Perth, who had not achieved premiership success after losing two grand final contests. But in a major recruiting coup by the West Perth board Farmer took up the Captain-Coach role and led the club to Premierships soon after in 1969 and 1971. Farmer retired from playing at the end of 1971.

Dr Neale Fong, current West Perth President states, ”Polly Farmer is the name synonymous with the greatest players in our great game of Australian Rules football. The fact that he carved out a special piece of success and history with our great club has always been important to West Perth. Coming to Leederville Oval in 1968 set West Perth up for a great era which included four Grand Final appearances and three flags between 1969 and 1975”.

Farmer was an innovator in the game, a proud Aboriginal man whose Foundation named after him prolongs his legacy to Australian youth, and  someone who impacted the Game forever.

Sadly, as West Perth celebrates the 50th anniversary of the 1969 Premiership at a gala event on August 30,  Polly will not be with us. But the legend and the memories live on. Rest in Peace Graham Polly Farmer”.

Dr Neale Fong

WPFC President