The Bulldogs made visits to district schools and the local health service, as well as joining the community for dinner at the town hall and putting on a training session at the showgrounds.

Dinner with the Dogs on Tuesday night was an opportunity for locals to gain first-hand insights.

But the benefits were definitely both ways, according to Bulldogs senior coach Brendan McCartney.

McCartney -- who was born in Nyah and lived there until 10-years-old -- told The Guardian the community camps gave the players perspective in life.

"We put the show on, but it's not as good a game or product (without community engagement)," he said.

"It's important for them to know they're no better than anyone else."

McCartney said the sense of perspective and respect was not at odds with the way the Bulldogs wanted to play the game.

"They can be respectful and humble... and still play hard and competitive football but have their feet on the ground," he said.

Star Bulldogs midfielder Daniel Giansiracusa -- a veteran of 213 games -- said he enjoyed meeting people on the community camps.

"People see us for who we are," he said.

For more on this story see Friday's edition of The Guardian (February 10, 2012).