The Bendigo community have come out in force this afternoon to watch the Bombers in action at Queen Elizabeth Oval. Over 2500 people watched the Bombers skills session in the 30 degree heat. Bomber coach Kevin Sheedy is extremely pleased with the support received from the Bendigo community. ""The people of Bendigo have embraced the Essendon Football Club this week. It has been a fantastic way to kick off the amalgamation with the Bendigo Bombers. The support has been overwhelming,"" Sheedy said.

This is the final day of the three day training camp and Sheedy made special mention of the involvement of the Essendon players in the Bendigo community. ""I have been very proud of the way the players have conducted themselves this week. They have visited schools, hospitals and taken junior football clinics. On the track they have also been impressive - they have trained hard in the heat. This was another important training week with only two weeks to our first match,"" Sheedy said.

Talented Bendigo youngsters Darren Atkinson from Sandhurst and Brad Comer from Newbridge trained with the squad. Both play for the Bendigo Pioneers under-18 side and were pleased to have the opportunity to train with the Bombers. After training at QE oval the players lined up along the fence and signed autographs for the Essendon supporters for over half an hour. After a quick shower, the Bomber players and coaches enjoyed a BBQ with the Bendigo locals.

The Essendon players and staff look forward to visiting Bendigo throughout the season.