Western Bulldogs AFLW players tackle the Children’s Ward
Western Bulldogs AFLW players visited the Grampians Health Children’s Ward at the Ballarat Base Hospital on Thursday 4 June 2026, spending time with young patients, families and staff as part of the club’s annual Community Camp in Ballarat.
Players Jasmyn Smith and Britney Gutknecht spent time on the ward meeting children, joining in activities and sharing conversation with families receiving care.
The visit formed part of the Western Bulldogs AFLW Community Camp program, which sees players engage with schools, junior clubs and community organisations across the region to strengthen connections beyond the field.
Campbell Waring, Ballarat Engagement Manager for the Western Bulldogs, said the players thoroughly enjoyed returning to Ballarat and connecting with the local community once again.
“It is fantastic for our AFLW players to be back in Ballarat as a part of the AFLW Community Camp.
“Our AFLW players enjoy inspiring young people, especially young girls, to follow their goals and inspire the next generation of budding footballers. It is wonderful that the players can put some smiles on the faces of the children in the ward and get them to forget about the difficult time they are having, for a moment and talk to the players.”
“The AFLW season kicks off in August and in Round 8, the club returns to Ballarat where we take on the Saints at Mars Stadium - and we want the local community to get behind the Bulldogs girls. The stadium is new, the atmosphere is going to be electric, and best of all - kids get in free.”
Claire Woods, Chief People Officer at Grampians Health, said the visit continued a valued partnership with the Western Bulldogs and brought real joy to patients and staff.
“We were delighted to welcome the Western Bulldogs AFLW players to our Children’s Ward,” Ms Woods said.
“Grampians Health and the Western Bulldogs share a strong commitment to inclusion, respect and community wellbeing, and visits like this reflect those values in action.
“For our young patients, having elite athletes take the time to visit them in hospital creates a memorable experience and plants important seeds about what is possible for their future.”
Luke McEldrew, Nurse Unit Manager of the Children’s Ward, said the impact of the visit was clearly felt across the ward.
“Our Children’s Ward was absolutely buzzing during the visit,” Mr McEldrew said. “The players took the time to speak with children and families, and those moments really lifted the spirits of everyone involved.
“For many of our patients, meeting AFL players in person is something they will remember long after their hospital stay. It helps remind them that challenges don’t define what they can achieve in life.”
The Community Camp continues to strengthen the Western Bulldogs’ connection with the Ballarat region, celebrating the role of sport in building stronger and healthier communities.
