The AFL confirmed on Monday North Melbourne would bring a contingent to the Shepparton and Wyndham areas as part of its 2025 AFL Community Camps program, set to visit the former on February 10.
It will be a rather early welcome back for one of the Roos’ latest acquisitions in Whitlock, with the key position player swinging back into town as part of his first pre-season at AFL level.
The Shepparton product was sensationally scooped up by Alastair Clarkson’s staff with pick 27 in November’s national draft.
It follows what has become an annual setting for the town to be visited by an AFL club shortly before the season kick-off, with Essendon having arrived in the area last year — before its women’s program would do the same during the winter — while Richmond appeared in 2023.
Again, Shepparton isn’t the only Goulburn Valley destination for AFL clubs either.
Richmond arrives in Wangaratta on February 3, while Melbourne visited Mansfield, Bright, Benalla, Euroa and Violet Town on November 25-26 last year.
AFL executive general manager of game development Rob Auld, outlined the community camps’ importance for engaging with local communities and growing the game from a grassroots level.
“Many of our game’s greatest players began their journeys in remote and regional towns, at small local clubs kept afloat by dedicated volunteers, and the purpose of these camps is for our elite AFL players to connect with members of these communities and give back to those people who live and breathe footy,” Auld said.
“Whilst our diehard supporters jump at the chance to meet their heroes, these camps are also an opportunity to engage and strengthen connection to the game for new fans and participants, ensure Australian football is accessible to everyone.
“I’d like to thank all the clubs, players and staff who help co-ordinate and deliver the 2025 AFL Community Camps around the country each and every year.
“They play a vital part in bringing our game to all corners of Australia as we strive to have footy in every home.”
