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A Timeline of History

Perth Football Club has a proud and storied history, spanning over a century of football excellence. From its humble beginnings to becoming a cornerstone of WA football, the club has played an integral role in the development of the game and the local community. This timeline highlights key milestones that have shaped the club’s journey.
  • 1899

    The Birth of the Perth Football Club

    The Perth Football Club fielded its first team in 1899, competing in the Perth First Rate Junior Competition. That same year, the club was invited to join the WA Football Association after the dissolution of the Rovers Football Club.
  • 1899

    The First WAFA Game

    Nine former Rovers players joined the newly admitted Perth team, playing their first match on July 15, 1899, against Fremantle. In a titanic struggle, Fremantle held on to win by three points.
  • 1904

    First Grand Final Appearance

    Based at the WACA Ground, the club, then known as the City Reds, made its first Grand Final appearance in 1904 but fell short against Fremantle.
  • 1907

    First Premiership Victory

    Perth won its first WAFA premiership in 1907, defeating East Fremantle by one point. A controversial umpiring decision led to a protest, which resulted in the disallowing of an opposition goal after the halftime bell.
  • 1921

    A Temporary Name Change

    During the 1930s, the club was briefly known as Victoria Park Football Club before reverting to its original name.
  • 1949

    A Grand Final Return

    Under the guidance of coach Austin Robertson Sr., Perth made a grand final appearance in 1949, setting the stage for a dominant era in the coming decades.
  • 1955

    A 48-Year Premiership Drought Ends

    Led by Keith Harper, Perth defeated East Fremantle by two points in the Grand Final, securing its first premiership since 1907. This game also marked the farewell of club legend Merv McIntosh, a three-time Sandover Medallist.
  • 1959

    A New Home at Lathlain Park

    Perth moved from the WACA Ground to Lathlain Park, gaining its own dedicated home ground after 60 years.
  • 1966-1968

    A New Era of Success

    Under coach Malcolm Atwell, Perth won three consecutive premierships in 1966, 1967, and 1968, establishing itself as a powerhouse of WA football.
  • 1976-1977

    Back-to-Back Premierships

    Coached by Ken Armstrong, Perth won consecutive premierships in 1976 and 1977, with dominant grand final victories over East Perth and East Fremantle.
  • 1978

    A Heartbreaking Grand Final Loss

    Despite a courageous seven-goal performance by Peter Bosustow, Perth lost the 1978 Grand Final to East Perth by two points.
  • 1987

    The AFL Era Begins

    The introduction of the West Coast Eagles into the VFL dramatically altered WA football. Despite challenges, Perth continued to produce elite talent, including AFL stars like Buddy Franklin, Darren Glass, Troy Cook, and Chance Bateman.
  • 1999

    Last Premiership (Colts Team)

    Perth’s Colts team, coached by Murray Couper, won the club’s last premiership in 1999, highlighting the depth of young talent at the club.
  • 2019

    A New Chapter at Mineral Resources Park

    The redevelopment of Lathlain Park into Mineral Resources Park was completed, with the West Coast Eagles moving into the precinct, fulfilling the vision of late club president Vince Pendal.
  • 2019

    A New Era Begins

    In 2019, the Perth Football Club unveiled a new crest, symbolising the club’s rich history and commitment to the future. This marked a fresh chapter as the club looked to restore its legacy and build towards sustained success.
  • 2023

    Paving the Way for Women’s Football

    The Perth Football Club made strides towards inclusivity and diversity by introducing its first women’s team, laying the foundation for the growth of women’s football at the club.
  • 2025

    A New Era Begins

    With the club’s vision of ‘Your Energy, Our Future,’ Perth Football Club continues to inspire the next generation of footballers, building on its proud legacy.
  • 1899
  • 1899
  • 1904
  • 1907
  • 1921
  • 1949
  • 1955
  • 1959
  • 1966-1968
  • 1976-1977
  • 1978
  • 1987
  • 1999
  • 2019
  • 2019
  • 2023
  • 2025

Together we make a difference

Every member matters

Imagine a club where your passion truly matters. At Perth FC, every member plays a vital role in building a community that cares. We come together to support local initiatives and celebrate every step forward. Help us take the next step and make it a season to remember.
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The Perth Football Club’s journey

The Perth Football Club’s journey is a testament to resilience, passion, and community spirit. As the club continues to grow, its history remains a source of pride and inspiration. Whether looking back on past triumphs or looking ahead to future successes we are committed to honouring their legacy while forging a bright future.