Western Australia’s first ever football-specific museum was officially opened with a gala event on Monday 13 February, 2023. The opening event brought together over 180 guests spanning Hall of Fame inductees, VIP guests, sponsors and supporters of the local game.
Located within the WA Italian Club at 217-225 Fitzgerald Street, West Perth, the Football Hall of Fame WA Museum consists of two main exhibits featuring over 170 objects. The first room, situated in newly refurbished 1934 Lounge, houses some of WA football’s significant items.
The Sports Lounge exhibit space will be a continually evolving display, reflecting relevant themes based on current events such as the upcoming FIFA Women’s World Cup, which will see five games played in Perth later this year.
The launch event, hosted by Hall of Fame committee member Vince Matassa, featured Q&As with Sandra Brentnall, scorer of Australia’s first ‘A’ international fixture, and Saverio Madaschi, goalkeeper of the State teams’ Marah Halim Cup-winning side.
Displayed exclusively at the launch was the magnificent Charity Cup, donated to the association of the day by William Leslie in 1903 and for the night by the WA Museum. The Charity Cup, standing three feet tall and comprising ten and a half pounds of silver, was awarded to the winner of WA’s premier knock-out cup competition until 1961.
The Hall of Fame strives to recognise, preserve and celebrate the history of football in Western Australia. The establishment of a museum is a hugely significant moment in the 27-year history of the Hall of Fame, and the 127-year history of organised football in this state.
The Hall of Fame thanks and acknowledges all those who have donated or loaned items for display in our museum. Details of opening hours and how you can help enhance the displays will be confirmed shortly – stay tuned to our website and social media for updates.
