A GoFundMe fundraiser has been launched to support former West Coast Eagles premiership player Mark Hutchings and his newborn daughter after the sudden and devastating death of his partner, Hannah Camplin, earlier this month in Perth.

Ms Camplin, aged 36, passed away on September 9 at a Perth hospital — just two days after giving birth to the couple's first child, a daughter named Sofia. An investigation into the circumstances of her death is ongoing, with family members indicating it could be up to a year before any conclusive findings are reached.

Fundraiser set up to help Mark Hutchings and baby Sofia

Family friend Rodney Capriotti established the online fundraiser on Tuesday, describing it as a response to the outpouring of support from those wanting to help in a practical way.

"There have been so many wonderful people in Hannah and Mark's lives who have reached out asking how they can support Mark and Sofia during this incredibly difficult time," the fundraiser page states.

A target of $30,000 has been set. By Wednesday afternoon, more than $11,000 had already been raised, reflecting the widespread goodwill directed at Hutchings and his family.

The page is clear that no one is under any obligation to donate financially, with messages of love and support described as equally meaningful. "Above all, your love, thoughts, prayers and ongoing support mean more than anything," it reads.

The fundraiser also pays tribute to Ms Camplin directly: "Hannah will always be deeply loved, forever missed, and never forgotten. We know she will be Sofia's guardian angel, and is already looking down on them so proud of the Dad Mark has become."

Who was Hannah Camplin?

Ms Camplin was a highly regarded ICU nurse at Royal Perth Hospital, where she also contributed to the hospital's trauma research unit. By all accounts, she was a dedicated healthcare professional whose work extended well beyond the bedside.

Hutchings described his partner's lifelong wish to become a mother in an emotional social media post last week, saying the loss had been "incredibly difficult to take."

"Her dream was to become a Mum," he wrote. "Sofia and I love you and will miss you very much Hannah."

Tributes from AFL community pour in for Hutchings

The outpouring of grief from the football world has been immediate and heartfelt. Former Eagles teammates were among those to publicly stand by Hutchings in the days following the tragedy.

Nic Naitanui wrote: "You'll be the best Dad for your beautiful daughter . . . we got you." Jack Darling also offered his support, writing: "Love you Hutchy, always here for you."

The West Coast Eagles club has also extended its ongoing support to Hutchings and his family.

Hutchings played 120 games for West Coast across his career, most notably as part of the club's 2018 premiership-winning side, before retiring in 2021. He has since built a career in real estate in Perth.

The sudden loss of a loved one after childbirth is a rare but shattering event, and the response to this tragedy has highlighted the strength of the bonds Hutchings built both on and off the football field. Those wishing to contribute financially to support Hutchings and baby Sofia can do so through the GoFundMe campaign established in their honour.

For those who have followed similar stories of communities rallying around those struck by sudden loss, tributes and fundraising efforts have become a powerful way for the public to show solidarity in the most difficult of times.