Sporting clubs affected by the Victorian bushfires will receive a generous cash injection of almost $150,000 after the WA football community joined forces to pull together a special pre-season Western Derby on Saturday 7 March at Subiaco Oval.

Fremantle and West Coast agreed to the pre-season derby to aid the fire victims and the fans came out in droves to not only support their side, but also to fundraise for the Victorian Bushfire Appeal.

Fremantle kicked nine goals in the final term to claim a thrilling 5 point victory in front of more than 24,000 football faithful who were obviously eager to witness the first derby encounter for season 2009.

Fremantle fans had already demonstrated their generosity at Fremantle’s NAB Cup opener against Richmond, when almost $20,000 was collected by NAB staff, WA Fire and Rescue servicemen and Red Cross volunteers for the Victorian Bushfire Appeal.

All funds raised from the round one NAB Cup game were handed across to the Red Cross to assist communities affected by the devastating bushfires get back on their feet. Donations can still be made at www.redcross.org.au or on 1800 811 700.

Thank you to everyone who dug deep and got behind this worthwhile cause.