‘Central to who we are’: Freo boss confirms ‘no hesitation’ for Wharfie Time return

Fremantle are adamant their controversial Wharfie Time will return in 2027, with plans to roll it out as early as Round 1 if necessary.

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The famous Wharfie Time has been under fire since the club’s heartbreaking grand final defeat where the fan activation was played after Pat Voss goaled to give his side a 17-point lead with four minutes left to play.

But instead of inspiring Fremantle to the club’s first flag, the move backfired spectacularly.

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As AC/DC’s Hells Bells tolled around the MCG, Brisbane then run riot to seal their third consecutive premiership – and resign the Dockers to more devastation.

In the immediate aftermath of that decider, fans and commentators alike called for the “cursed” Wharfie Time to be scrapped.

But speaking this week, Fremantle CEO Simon Garlick says Wharfie Time is here to stay.

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“There’ll be no hesitation,” Garlick told The West Australian.

“I think that’s been driven largely a lot of people who don’t really understand the concept of Wharfie Time.

“We’re not about to get rid of anything that we think is central to who we are as a club.”

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Wharfie Time is not a new concept for Fremantle fans, with the activation first rolled out back in 2023.

But it was after the Round 9 win over Hawthorn earlier this year that it made nation-wide news; played at a time the Hawks led by four in the final term with Fremantle going on to claim a 15-point win.

It was then used again in the semi final win over Geelong – another match the Dockers went on to win.

And it all originated back in 2009 when then-skipper Matthew Pavlich was heard on camera telling teammates: “Put on your Superman capes boys, it’s Wharfie Time”.

History shows the on-screen Wharfie Time activation had a remarkable run of success heading into the 2026 grand final, with it used seven times since the start of 2025 for five Fremantle wins.

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However, Brisbane headed into the 2026 grand final with a plan to combat it. Lions players were told in their team meeting: “When you hear that, go and win the game.”

And that’s what they delivered, to leave AFL great Jason Dunstall claiming it was “the worst Wharfie Time call of all time”.

“I just reckon it’s the wrong time to play Wharfie Time when you’re in front! It’s like you’re celebrating too early or prematurely. You know Brisbane are going to come at you,” he said.

“That bloody Wharfie Time … I don’t think they can ever play it again,” former West Coast coach Adam Simpson said.

Despite the grand final fallout, Fremantle aren’t resigning Wharfie Time to the scrap heap.

They’ll take on the Western Bulldogs in their season opener on Thursday, March 18 next year.