At CDC Victoria, we are committed to supporting the communities we serve, not only through reliable transport but through programs that help young people grow, lead and thrive. Over the past few weeks, we proudly delivered our flagship School Champions Day program in collaboration with the Werribee Football Club, bringing together emerging young leaders from across the Werribee, Wyndham, Derrimut and Truganina districts.
Building Confidence, Leadership and Community Connection
More than 60 students from Ngarri Primary School, Wyndham Vale Primary School, Garram Wilam Primary School and Bellbridge Primary School joined us for a full day of leadership and teamwork activities. These sessions were designed to build confidence, communication skills and collaboration, qualities that help young people succeed both inside and outside the classroom.
Students took part in:
- Leadership workshops delivered by the Werribee Football Club crew
- Team building and footy skills sessions
- A behind the scenes tour of the MCG
- Practical activities focused on teamwork, resilience and positive leadership
A Leadership-Focused Start at Werribee Football Club
Both the days began at the Werribee Football Club, where students were welcomed into a professional sporting environment and introduced to the values that drive teamwork and leadership at an elite level.
Caption: Werribee Football Club, Football Manager Kyle Hartigan
The first day Werribee Football Club, Football Manager Kyle Hartigan led an interactive learning and leadership session that encouraged students to think about communication, responsibility and supporting others.
The second day event was led by Senior Coach Daniel Lowther (Dan) who gave students practical insights into what leadership looks like on and off the field, and how these skills translate into everyday life.
Following the workshops, students moved into the gym for a guided session with the club’s community team. They explored warm up routines, movement skills and the importance of physical preparation. The excitement continued outdoors, where students had the chance to kick the footy, practise handballing and take part in fun team drills. These activities helped reinforce the themes of collaboration, resilience and positive participation.
Caption: Werribee Football Club, Senior Coach Daniel Lowther (Dan)
The support of the Werribee Football Club continues to elevate this program each year and plays a vital role in creating memorable and meaningful experiences for young people in our community.
The MCG Experience
Next was the behind the scenes tour of the MCG, where they explored areas usually reserved for elite athletes and officials. They walked through the players’ change rooms, visited the media facilities and stood on the edge of the iconic arena. This rare opportunity gave students a deeper appreciation of the preparation, discipline and teamwork that underpin high-performance sport. It was an inspiring moment that connected their leadership lessons to real-world environments.
The enthusiasm and energy from the students were inspiring.
Transport Connecting Young People to Opportunity
As one of Victoria’s major bus operators, we understand the important role transport plays in connecting young people to experiences that broaden their horizons. Our buses do more than move passengers. They help open doors to learning, leadership and community engagement.
We choose to support programs that use sport because sport is a powerful medium for communication and connection, especially with younger generations. It creates an environment where students can learn by doing, build resilience through challenge, and develop teamwork skills in a way that feels natural and engaging. Whether it is working together during drills, supporting a teammate or learning to bounce back after a missed kick, sport provides real moments that help shape confident and capable young leaders.
School Champions Day is a strong example of how transport, sport and community partnerships can come together to create meaningful impact. By connecting students to these opportunities, we help them access experiences that inspire growth both on and off the field.
A Special Thank You
Caption: Left to Right: Anthony Catania, Bus Driver; Mark Stone, GM Business Performance and Narelle Lappin Community Engagement and First Nations Coordinator
A big shout out to our driver Anthony Catania for ensuring safe and comfortable travel for students and staff on both days.
