The hidden museum for an old club

A little-known museum in Docklands maintains a legacy for the Fitzroy Football Club (FFC) and is offering a special deal for Seniors Week this month.

The FFC Museum at Marvel Stadium is run by the Fitzroy – Brisbane Lions Historical Society and takes old supporters back to a world before the merger.

The FFC was an inaugural team in the VFL/AFL and lasted for over 100 years but was merged with the Brisbane Bears in 1996.

Brisbane Lions Victorian manager Sam Lord said the museum ensured that the old club was never forgotten.

“When we merged a lot of people stayed fans but a lot of them also said ‘nope, merge my team and I’m not going to barrack for footy anymore’ so a few of them are still disenfranchised 23 years later,” he said.

“But they still come and get emotional because this is their club as it was. It’s like Mecca for our supporters.”

Mr Lord said the museum was one of the best: “In terms of physical memorabilia displays of any kind in the AFL it’s widely considered one of the best even though it’s not publicly accessible.”

Historical society volunteers Arthur Wilson and Neil Barrie offer guided tours through the museum. For Seniors Week, from October 6 to October 13, one senior ticket at five dollars gets plus one free.

Neil Barrie said the museum existed for the older generation who remembered the club, but also the new generation who wanted to learn about it.

“A lot of the younger fans don’t know about it, but also the younger players,” Mr Barrie said.

Mr Lord said the museum was slightly hidden but should be on locals’ radar.

“We’ve got such an amazing asset which is kind of hidden away and it’s in Docklands, which is such a vibrant area and things are happening, but I think a lot of people still wouldn’t know that this exists,” he said.

“It’s this fantastic asset in Docklands that probably doesn’t get the publicity it deserves, or people don’t know about it.”

To book a tour call Neil Barrie on 0419 519 802.