Even though Kiama Power lost all three games to Figtree last Saturday at the club’s annual Family Day, the results didn’t dampen the club's spirit.

The two clubs played for the Darren Williams Shield, named in honour of their former president who died after suffering a heart attack. 

The day also doubled as a fundraiser for Heart Research Australia, with plenty of community support on and off the field.

Jade Quigley receives the Darren Williams Medal for Best on Ground in the Women’s Premier League match, presented by the Williams family. Source: Anthony Grady

While Kiama didn’t come away with a win, the narrow loss in the Premier Division game marked a major step forward for the club’s top side.

“The standout for us was just the turnaround in form for our men's first grade,” says committee member Andrew Grady.

“In the last couple of seasons, Figtree has beaten us by 120 points or more, so only going down by seven on the weekend was a big turnaround - and a statement about our intent for the year.”

Despite leading at half-time, Kiama ultimately fell 47-40 in a hard-fought match. Grady credits the improvement to a more cohesive game plan and a strong mix of fresh faces and returning players.

“This is our second season running the game plan we put in place, and the players are really starting to buy in,” he says.

“Our two best players were Hamish Robertson, playing his first game for the club, and Charlie Wood, who hasn’t played for Kiama in a few seasons.

"That combination of new and returning players has really boosted confidence.”

Beyond the scoreboard, Family Day at Bonaira Oval was a vibrant celebration of club culture, featuring inflatable slides, junior players presenting senior jerseys, and successful fundraising for Heart Research Australia.

“We had a lot of kids come down and get involved, and we raised a great amount of money - so it was a really successful day in all those areas,” says Grady.

“We’re a family club. We want to build from the grassroots - from Auskick all the way through to first grade - and keep the same values across all levels.”

The community spirit didn’t stop on Saturday.

Senior players were back at the oval on Sunday, helping out across the junior games in various roles.

Sonny Ettridge receives the Darren Williams Medal for Best on Ground in the Men’s Reserve Grade match, presented by the Williams family. Source: Anthony Grady

“We had players supporting the juniors all day - running water, delivering messages, or just giving tips. They were there right through until the final game at 6pm,” Grady says.

Looking ahead, Grady is excited for the club’s Sir Doug Nicholls Round on May 24, celebrating Indigenous players and culture across the AFL.

“We’ll have local Elders coming down to deliver a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony, and our players will be wearing Indigenous jerseys. It’s going to be a really special day at the club.”