The Western Bulldogs’ cheer squad were extra loud at Manuka Oval on Sunday when they were joined by a 100-strong group of excited kids and their carers when the Carn the Kids program visited Canberra for the first time.

Carn the Kids is a program developed by LeasePlan and the Western Bulldogs that aims to give kids who might not ordinarily have the opportunity the chance to experience a day at the footy with all the lashings – a free meat pie, face painting, a t-shirt and a show bag. For many of the children involved, it was their very first experience of a live game. The group of 100 kids and carers were from the CREATE Foundation – a not-for-profit organisation that seeks to connect and empower children and young people placed in out-of-home care.

Among the 100-strong group was 12 year old Brenton Jacka who was given the extra special honour of representing Carn the Kids by leading the Western Bulldogs’ team on the ground and through the banner. Running with Brad Johnston, it was clear that Brenton was loving every minute of his on field foray with the Doggies and had quickly forgotten his rugby league roots to become a fully fledged Western Bulldogs and AFL fan.

Now in its fifth year, Carn the Kids is a concept LeasePlan developed in partnership with the Western Bulldogs and with generous support from the AFL and Toyota, as well as event assistance from venue managers and caterers across the country. The match in Canberra was also generously supported by Auskick who donated extra goodies including a footy for each kid to enjoy.

“Both LeasePlan and the Western Bulldogs are delighted to have this opportunity to bring Carn the Kids to Canberra for the first time this year, having previously taken the program to Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Darwin. It is great fun to be able to share a fun day out at the footy with these kids and cheer on the Doggies,” said Paul Scully, National Marketing Communications Manager for LeasePlan Australia.

Since its inception in 2003, Carn the Kids has given over 8000 kids and carers an unforgettable day at the footy at 22 AFL matches across six states.