Fremantle will unveil three debutants in Sunday’s season opener against Port Adelaide, with two AFLW debuts in Georgie Brisbane and Indi Strom, and Club debutant Bella Smith, following a demanding pre-season campaign and standout performances on track. 

Brisbane and Strom have earned their first AFLW appearances after impressive first pre-seasons, while Smith – who joined Fremantle following the 2024 Trade Period from Sydney, makes her Club debut after already boasting 36 games of AFLW experience.

Brisbane, a versatile key forward, was Fremantle’s first selection in the 2024 AFLW Draft, following two standout seasons with the Eastern Ranges, where she displayed her clean skills, leadership and composure under pressure. 

Fremantle Head of AFLW Claire Heffernan said Brisbane hasn’t wavered from her commitment, professionalism and hunger to learn since walking through Fremantle’s doors for the first time.

“Georgie has worked incredibly hard for this opportunity and has been a fantastic addition to our list from day one,” Fremantle Head of AFLW Claire Heffernan said. 

“She’s incredibly driven, works tirelessly on her craft and has that rare ability to make the players around her better. We’re excited to see what she can do at the elite level.” 

Key defender Strom has also stood out in her first official season at the Club, where her intercept marking, competitive edge and ability to read the play has added more depth to Fremantle’s backline. 

“Indi has been rock-solid all pre-season and has slotted seamlessly into our defensive unit,” Heffernan said.

“She’s consistently pushed herself to improve, embraced every challenge, and shown she can perform at a high level against quality opposition.” 

Smith enters her sixth AFLW season with excitement, adding a strong presence to Fremantle’s forward line, with the ability to hit impact the scoreboard.  

“Bella’s experience and assertiveness in the forward line has been invaluable since she arrived,” Heffernan said. 

“She quickly built strong connections within the group and fits into the side seamlessly. We will be thrilled to see her run out in purple for the first time.” 

Fremantle’s extended squad for Round 1 will be named on Thursday at 4.20pm WST, with the final team confirmed on Friday at 3.00pm WST.