Essendon has kicked off its 2013 AFL Australia Post Community Camp in Wangaratta this afternoon with a NAB Super Clinic.

Hundreds of children turned up to Wangaratta Showgrounds to spend time with their football heroes.

Essendon big man Patrick Ryder said the camp was an important opportunity for the club to engage with its rural fans.

“It is great to see the kids come out, they are all having a great time.”

“I think it is really important for us to make sure we spend time with our loyal fans not just in Melbourne but around the whole of Victoria and Australia.”

The Bombers will venture across Victoria’s picturesque Alpine region across the next three days visiting local primary schools, community groups and hospitals.

On Friday morning the club will hold an open training session for all fans at Wangaratta Showgrounds from 9am on Friday March 1 followed by a signing session.

The Bomber Shop is also taking to the road with a merchandise marquee coming along for the camp.

Make sure you purchase your official merchandise directly from the club when you see the marquee at various locations throughout the camp as well as at the Wangaratta Showgrounds for the NAB Cup game.