Whitten Oval has been the backdrop for many memorable moments in Bulldogs history. 

In 1955, the Club proudly unfurled its 1954 premiership flag in front of the John Gent Stand. That same year, a record home crowd of 42,354 packed into the stands for a clash with Collingwood.

The legendary Ted Whitten played his 321st and final game at the Western Oval in 1970 - a Club and VFL record at the time. In 1984, Simon Beasley etched his name into Club folklore with an intercept mark and last-minute goal to secure a famous victory over Collingwood.

Ted Whitten waves to the Western Oval crowd after his final VFL match. (Image: Supplied)

One of the Oval’s most defining off-field moments came on Sunday, October 8, 1989, when 10,000 passionate supporters gathered for the 'FightBack' rally. The event launched a fundraising campaign that ultimately saved the Club from a forced merger with Fitzroy. 

  • 04:05

    Saving The Dogs: Terry Wheeler

    Presented by Victoria University, check out Part Four of 'Saving The Dogs', a four part series commemorating the 30th anniversary of the historic Fightback of 1989.

    AFL
  • 04:01

    Saving The Dogs: Peter Gordon

    Presented by Victoria University, check out Part Three of 'Saving The Dogs', a four part series commemorating the 30th anniversary of the historic Fightback of 1989.

    AFL
  • 05:26

    Saving The Dogs: Irene Chatfield

    Presented by Victoria University, check out Part Two of 'Saving The Dogs', a four part series commemorating the 30th anniversary of the historic Fightback of 1989.

    AFL
  • 04:18

    Saving The Dogs: The story of 1989

    Presented by Victoria University, check out Part One of 'Saving The Dogs', a four part series commemorating the 30th anniversary of the historic Fightback of 1989.

    AFL

The final AFL match at Whitten Oval took place in Round 21 of the 1997 season, with the Bulldogs defeating the West Coast Eagles.