Gold Coast will have to overcome an emotionally-charged Western Bulldogs this Saturday, as Brendan McCartney’s team look to send off retired stalwart Tom Williams in the best way possible – a win over the finals-contending SUNS.

On the eve of the sides’ north Queensland clash in Cairns the ten-year Bulldogs veteran announced his departure from the game, effective immediately, after the injury-prone backman suffered a hamstring injury in the VFL on Sunday.

After 85 games in the red, white and blue colours, Williams informed the club and his teammates of his decision this week.

"I feel very fortunate to have spent my time in the AFL at the Western Bulldogs and with so many great people and memories,” Williams said.

"I am proud of my career, and although it was met with some frustrating periods with injury, I can take away countless positives.

"I thank the club, my teammates and our supporters for their patience and support over the years and I look forward to seeing the exciting future of the Western Bulldogs unfold."

While McCartney’s defensive stocks has taken with Williams’ calling time on his playing career, the three-year Bulldogs mentor can take comfort knowing his available backline is capable of matching it against the competition’s best forwards, after conceding just ten goals to Geelong in their most recent performance.

But no doubt the Bulldogs will run out at Cazaly’s Stadium with an extra spring in their step, as they look to celebrate their loyal teammate’s career.

Bulldogs General Manager of Football, Graham Lowe praised the Queenslander for his service to the club.

"Tom is an extremely popular teammate and a much respected and admired Western Bulldogs person," he said.

"The attitude shown to his football has been exemplary - particularly through periods of injury rehabilitation – and his leadership to our developing team has been invaluable."