Marking the first training of 2023, residents and community groups came together at the end of April to celebrate with a free dinner, presentations, and scratch matches for the kids.

The Miriam Rose Foundation presented a cheque of $20,000 to the club, and the Victoria Daly’s Night Patrol team volunteered their services throughout the evening.

Media and arts charity Red Dust also attended with Richmond Tigers AFLW defender, Jessica Hosking, running activities to encourage girls in the community to try their hand at the game.

The team’s marquee was unveiled for the first time – purchased earlier in the year with VDRC Local Authority funds.

VDRC Mayor, B. Pedwell, said he was thrilled Council could make any kind of contribution to the team.

“Having a local footy team in the community is about so much more than playing a game once a week. It’s about the sense of pride it brings to the place – this team impacts everyone,” Mayor Pedwell said.

“We wish this year’s team every success in the upcoming season.”