The upcoming NRL match between the Dolphins and Knights at Perth’s HBF Park is set to be a notable event amidst the ongoing competition between Australian Rules Football (AFL) and rugby league in Western Australia. It should be noted that the rivalry is not being escalated by the AFL or its local clubs, the Dockers and Eagles, who seem unperturbed by the potential encroachment of the new Perth Bears team.
Despite rising viewer interest in rugby league, particularly following the recent State of Origin II, which attracted around 57,000 fans to Optus Stadium, the local media, specifically The West Australian newspaper, has been slow to acknowledge its presence. Criticism has been levelled at the publication for largely ignoring the NRL’s growth in the area and for favouring AFL coverage, even mocking rugby league during promotional events.
Recent match attendance figures highlight a growing local interest in rugby league: the same week as State of Origin saw nearly 47,000 Perth locals attending the game, surpassing crowds at subsequent AFL matches. However, the coverage in The West Australian remains limited, with editor Chris Dore staunchly insisting that rugby league does not engage the average WA reader.
In contrast, rugby league is demonstrating significant growth potential in the state. The Perth Bears, the new NRL franchise, are planning to establish themselves firmly in the local sports environment. Their CEO, Anthony de Ceglie, is determined to change perceptions and assert that Perth is not solely an AFL state, noting the city’s diverse sports interests.
Supporters and sports figures, like retired cricketer Mitchell Johnson, believe that rugby league can thrive in WA, citing a robust demand for rugby league events. Johnson noted the large turnout for rugby league games and the excitement around the introduction of a local team.
As the Dolphins and Knights prepare to play, the turnout at HBF Park will serve as a crucial indicator of rugby league’s popularity in Perth. Should the event draw a substantial audience, it will affirm the game’s appeal in the region, despite resistance from local media. The West Australian may continue to downplay rugby league’s significance, but the evidence of local interest and attendance at matches suggests that rugby league is poised for growth in Western Australia.