Home

Premier Mark McGowan confirms 75 per cent crowd capacity for western derby 52 at Optus Stadium

Bonnie Raynor & Glen QuartermainThe West Australian
VideoLuke Ryan appears sore at Fremantle training on Thursday ahead of Sunday's derby blockbuster.

The State Government has tonight confirmed a crowd of 75 per cent crowd will be allowed to attend Sunday’s western derby - but masks will be mandatory at Optus Stadium and on public transport.

Premier Mark McGowan announced the next phase of coronavirus restrictions for Perth and Peel following a meeting of State Disaster Council late this afternoon.

The increase comes after five days of no new community cases in Western Australia and will apply to major event venues, including Optus Stadium, RAC Arena and HBF Park.

MORE AFL NEWS:

Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE

Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.

READ NOW

Errant Fyfe: I’ll ‘kick a couple’ in coming weeks

Bush & ‘Burbs: Mixed debut news for Rance, Peake and Taylor

The Game AFL 2024

Eagles ponder switch to cover Gov

“Major stadiums, including Optus Stadium, RAC Arena and HBF Park can operate at 75 per cent capacity,” McGowan said tonight.

“Masks will only need to be worn outdoors where physical distancing is not possible. For example, at Optus Stadium.

“We can have 75 per cent because of the mask wearing.

“That allows a bit more distancing. We’ve gone relatively cautious. If you wear a mask, you do a large service towards protecting yourself.”

The new restrictions will be in place until 12:01am on Saturday May 8th, providing the current trend of no new cases continues.

The West Coast Eagles have endured a frustrating week of uncertainty over the size of the crowd for their home derby.

It comes after the Fremantle Dockers were forced to host their marquee Len Hall tribute match against North Melbourne in front of empty stands last Saturday night.

Eagles life members were informed today their ticket requests had been rejected, confirming there would be reduced capacity.

A crowd of 50 per cent will be allowed at Sunday’s western derby.
Camera IconA crowd of 50 per cent will be allowed at Sunday’s western derby. Credit: Jackson Flindell/The West Australian

“Unfortunately, due to what are likely to be reduced capacity restrictions on attendance at the match, we will not be able to fulfil your request on this occasion.

“The short notice regarding the outcomes of State Government deliberations limits our ability to meet the majority of ticket requests for this round,” the email to Life Members said.

“We completely understand that this will be disappointing for you and your family, particularly for a Derby match; however, it will hopefully also be a short term situation.

“It is unfortunately necessary and we appreciate your understanding and continued flexibility around the COVID-19 impacts on our matches.

Get the latest news from thewest.com.au in your inbox.

Sign up for our emails