The third instalment of The Whitten Project wrapped up with a bang last week with a Graduation ceremony at Victoria University Whitten Oval celebrating the achievements of the 66 young leaders who completed the 7-month Leadership Program.

250 family, friends, council and Bulldogs staff packed into the Elite Learning Centre to watch the young leaders receive their graduation certificate from senior local government representatives including Brimbank City Council Administrator John Tanner, Hobsons Bay City Council Mayor Colleen Gates, Maribyrnong City Council Mayor Nam Quach Melton City Councillor Bob Turner and Moonee Valley City Council Mayor Narelle Sharpe. 

Western Bulldogs CEO David Stevenson set the tone for what was to be a special night with a stirring address that recognised the groups’ outstanding skill development and highlighted the clubs commitment to delivering meaningful community programs. 

“On behalf of all of us here at the Bulldogs, I’d like to welcome you to the Bulldogs family,” Stevenson said.

“While today you are graduating from The Whitten Project, tomorrow you will be building, shaping and leading our communities.

“Continue to seek opportunities to challenge yourself and build your skills”.

Melton participant Billy Metter’s was the recipient of the You Inspire Me Award, a peer voted award recognising the contribution of a group member who has best personified the programs values of leadership, respect, teamwork and encouragement.

As has become customary, 2014 recipient William McKenzie was on hand to present a clearly humbled Billy with the award.

“It was an absolute pleasure this year and an amazing experience,” the 15 year old said.

The Whitten Project 2015 was a year of growth highlighted by an significant increase in female engagement that saw 42 females participates, up from 28 in 2014 and 9 in 2013. 

The Western Bulldogs Football Club would like to acknowledge the generous and ongoing support The Whitten Project receives from our valued program partners: Brimbank City Council, Glenelg Shire Council, Hobsons Bay City Council, Maribyrnong City Council, Melton City Council, Moonee Valley City Council, AFL, AFL Victoria, CDC Victoria, Netball Victoria, Victoria University and Sport and Recreation Victoria.

The club looks forward to delivering The Whitten Project again in 2016 and providing unique opportunities for local young people to connect, contribute and grow as leaders in their community

Nominations for The Whitten Project 2016 will open in Mid-February and will be available online through the club website.