Footy lovers switch on for public holiday Fremantle DerbyTuesday, April 28, 2015 - 1:27 PM

The WAFL is thriving with yesterday’s Fremantle Derby drawing massive crowds and TV audiences.

Approximately 5000 people flocked to Fremantle Oval yesterday to watch East Fremantle down South Fremantle by 17 points.

Seven’s telecast on 7mate peaked at 46,500 viewers (21.6% Free To Air share) with the game averaging 35,000 viewers and a 15.2% share.  7mate’s strong WAFL performance meant Channel Seven Perth had 2 of the top 3 channels over the afternoon timeslot and a powerful combined 35.8% FTA Share.

Chief Operating Officer of the WAFC Nick Sautner declared the day a success across the board. "The West Australian Football Commission is delighted with the weekend’s attendances and TV ratings for the WAFL competition. We are particularly pleased with the collaboration between Channel 7, South Fremantle and East Fremantle Football Clubs to embrace initiatives that provided viewers with a unique insight into the match day experience.”

“We look forward to all WAFL clubs continuing to work with Channel 7 and the WAFC to maximise exposure for our premier State League competition. We also thank McDonald’s, AHG, reiwa.com, Kennards and China Southern Airlines for making this possible through their broadcast partnership with the West Australian Football League."

Seven Perth Managing Director Mario D’Orazio said Seven always believed the WAFL could deliver  such results.  "We're delighted to be partnering with the WAFL, and even more delighted footy fans are responding.  "We worked closely with the managements of both East Fremantle and South Fremantle to help make the Derby a wonderful experience for fans and families. We look forward to working the all clubs to grow the game," D’Orazio said.

South Fremantle Football Club CEO Stuart Kemp said the club couldn’t be happier with the support, “The crowd, the atmosphere and excellent broadcast of the game from 7mate was outstanding.”

East Fremantle Football Club CEO Todd Shimmon said it was a great Derby.  “We look forward to the return bout at ATOM Stadium on WA Day which will also be televised by 7.”

The next televised WAFL match is East Fremantle v Perth on Sunday 10 May from 11.30am to 2.30pm on Channel Seven.