Earlier in the year, as part of Redkite Day activities, the club and charity partner Redkite launched The Swannies - a special auction of Sydney Swans player portraits, drawn by kids with cancer and their friends.

A significant amount was raised through auctioning these pieces of art as part of the wider fundraising activities and the online auction assisted in raising a record total of $43,528 for Redkite in 2023.

There were some incredible pieces drawn by the Redkite families, which were signed by each player and they will no doubt be displayed in a special place of those generous bidders.

There were also some official awards handed out by Sydney Swans and Redkite as part of the campaign and the winner of The Swannies was selected by Lua Pellegrini, the designer of the Sydney Swans Indigenous guernsey. She chose the portrait of Senior Coach, John Longmire, drawn by Ellie.

A 'Fan vote' award was also awarded with Swans members and fans able to vote through Sydney Swans social media and digital channels. The vote could not be split with two portraits selected for this, the portraits of Harry Cunningham and Tom Hickey. Finally, a 'Packing Room Prize' which was chosen by Sydney Swans media staff and Redkite administration staff and this was awarded to the portrait of Dane Rampe which always received great reactions.

The Swannies Awards

The Swannies: John Longmire, drawn by Ellie

Fan Vote: Tom Hickey by Breeze and Harry Cunningham drawn by Chas

Packing Room Prize: Dane Rampe, drawn by William

Stay tuned to Sydney Swans channels as we approach AFLW season for a Redkite fundraiser which will feature drawn portraits of our AFLW team!