The football world is in shock this week with the news that Docker Dave is bowing out of politics and won't run for a second term as Fremantle Board Member. After Docker Les's successful re-election last year, it was expected that Dave Garic would go around again but luckily there are 7 high quality candidates who are prepared to step in and fill his big shoes.

The big news is that inaugural Fremantle captain, former Fremantle coach, wine baron, Hawthorn premiership player and fairest and best winner, and hard hitting columnist in the local paper Ben Allan has put his hand up. Ben has been installed as odds on favourite to get the job with several big bets going down as soon as his name was read out.

He'll go head to head with 6 other candidates. Fremantle law talking guy Paul Masten, financial wizard Gary Hasler, management gurus Mark Hevron and Craig Thompson will also join the contest this year in what is anticipated to be the most passionate election campaign since voting was introduced.

A couple of losers from last year will also go around again. Brendan Clark and Allison Brown have learned form the experience and are expected to run slick, professional campaigns.

Another of last years losers, Larry Foley, was supposed to be running as well, however he picked up a fax machine second hand from Ron Joseph and missed the deadline. Mr Foley is expected to feature heavily in the campaign but is yet to declare which candidate he will throw his weight behind.

If you're over 18 and you've got a season ticket or a one of the other membership packages that included voting rights, then you are eligible to vote. The voting will be done by a postal Ballot, to be sent out to voting members on 11 November 2004 and voting closes on Wednesday 30 November.

It's going to be a big month - hold on to your individually numbered hats.