After six years of commitment and passion for the Starlight Children’s Foundation as a player ambassador, Fremantle’s Bailey Banfield has been invited to join the charity as a National Starlight Ambassador.

Bailey has supported Starlight since his first year at Fremantle in 2018, regularly meeting Starlight kids and families, aiming to make an impact and put a much-needed smile on their faces.

Thrilled with the invitation, Bailey was pleased to elevate his involvement with the Foundation as a National Ambassador.

“A big part of the Freo culture is giving back to our community so to be able to further my involvement with Starlight as a National Ambassador is such an exciting and rewarding opportunity for me,” Bailey said.

Bailey’s regular visits to Perth Children’s Hospital has seen him build strong relationships with the Starlight children and families, participating in any activity or game that would help brighten their day.

Fremantle’s annual Starlight Purple Haze Game, proudly supported by South 32, is another cause Bailey throws his support behind, helping to raise funds for seriously ill children in Western Australia.

With the Fremantle forward’s values aligning with Starlight’s purpose, it further solidifies why the relationship is a perfect fit.

“Starlight’s purpose is all about happiness, so anything I can do to help just by having fun with the kids and being a bit of a goose is pretty special,” Bailey said.  

“It’s incredible to see first-hand the impact Starlight has, so I love being able to contribute in any way I can.”  
 
Bailey’s enthusiasm to the cause also led to his involvement in Starlight’s ‘Livewire’ program, dedicated to supporting teenagers living with a serious illness, disability or chronic health condition. 
 
“I’ve been doing some work with the Livewire team, connecting with teenagers. Hospital can be a stressful, lonely place for young people so to be able to chat, play board games and help bring some light into some dark times is really fulfilling,” Banfield said.

Next year will mark Banfield’s seventh year being involved with Starlight, and Freo’s annual Starlight Purple Haze Game, which raised more than $470,000 in 2024.