AFLW Bulldogs are kicking goals with Children’s Ward at Grampians Health Ballarat
Western Bulldogs AFLW players Rylie Wilcox, Elisabeth Georgostathis, Vaomua Laloifi, and Analea McKee brought smiles and inspiration to the Children's Ward.
Western Bulldogs ALFW players, Rylie Wilcox, Elisabeth Georgostathis, Vaomua Laloifi and Analea McKee, visited Grampians Health Ballarat Base Hospital Children’s Ward on Friday 6 June 2025.
Campbell Waring, Ballarat Engagement Manager for the Western Bulldogs, said he had looked forward to bringing the players back to Ballarat for their second Community Camp.
“It was wonderful to have our Western Bulldogs AFLW players in Ballarat for the second year of our AFLW Community Camp. The players enjoy visiting Ballarat and providing a touchpoint for many Bulldogs fans.
“It was a wonderful opportunity for our players to visit the Children’s Ward at Grampians Health. We know many of the children may be experiencing a tough time, so if our players can put some smiles on their faces during their visit it will be really worthwhile.
“The AFLW players are fantastic role models and are an inspiration, especially for young girls. We knew they would share their love of the game and hopefully inspire the next generation of young footballers to follow their dreams to make it as elite athletes.”
Claire Woods, Chief People Officer at Grampians Health, welcomed the visit by the ALFW Team to Ballarat Base Hospital.
“Grampians Health and the Western Bulldogs share a commitment to building a culture that is equal, respectful, inclusive and safe for everyone. This visit by the ALFW Bulldogs team was a wonderful opportunity for all our patients and staff to celebrate our female athletes.
“We are delighted to host the AFLW Western Bulldogs back for their second Ballarat Community Camp. These women are wonderful role models for a fit, healthy and respectful lifestyle that all our kids can aspire to.”
Luke McEldrew, Nurse Unit Manager of the Children’s Ward, said a visit from the players provided a welcome distraction for the young patients and their families.
“Our patients and staff in the Paediatric Ward are always excited when we receive a visit from the Western Bulldogs. For the children we are caring for, they are not only a welcome distraction from the challenges of a hospital visit but are a wonderful reminder that they can kick goals – whether that is on the footy field, or in other areas of their life – irrespective of their gender, race or background.”
