Goal setting and resilience were on the agenda when Jason McCartney visited Portland on Tuesday as part of the Western Bulldogs’ Whitten Project.

The Bulldogs List Manager had a busy schedule during his visit to Victoria’s picturesque South West, addressing young leaders as well as multiple stakeholders.

His visit included a meet and greet with Glenelg Shire Council Mayor Cr John Northcott and councillors, a goal setting workshop with Young Leaders, a junior football clinic as well as addressing the Community Recreation Forum.

McCartney spent the afternoon with Whitten Project Young Leaders sharing stories and learnings from his successful AFL career as well as the tragic events that unfolded in Bali on October 12 2002.

McCartney’s presence at the junior football clinic attracted over 100 boys and girls from the local community who were keen to get an autograph and photo from the former AFL great.

The clinic provided young leaders with a valuable opportunity to connect with their local community and practise their coaching skills as part of the program.

Young Leader Harrison Hampshire described the day spent under McCartney's tutelage as a truly once in a lifetime opportunity and was hugely grateful for the experience.

Attendees at the evenings Recreation Forum were equally taken by McCartney’s presentation, staying long after the event had finished to further discuss his journey and experience at the Bulldogs.

The Whitten Project continues in Portland on August 5 2014 when young leaders will undertake a junior netball coaching course delivered by Netball Victoria.