The Magpies launched an SOS campaign on Wednesday, asking the Maryborough community if it wants the club to retain its status in the BFNL.

"We have about 20 players in total (seniors and reserves) committed for 2014 at the moment,'' Maryborough president Mick Reid said.

"We have a list of 80 players we've spoken to. We just need some players who won't make a final decision to commit.

"We really need an under-18 side up and running as well and we're working hard to achieve that.

"It's just hard with so many clubs in the region here to attract enough kids to step up to the major league.

"In the end we just have to ask the question - do Maryborough people want a club in a major league?

"If we don't get the feedback we're not going to waste our time.

"The league has set us a deadline of mid-February, but we as a club want to know by the start of February.

"We're struggling for netballers as well. Something has to be done now.

"This club has been around for a long time and we don't want to lose our major league status.

"We'll keep fighting hard, but it's up to the community now to help out."

Reid said competition between Maryborough and the district clubs playing in the MCDFNL was hurting the Magpies more than ever.

"We're strong financially, we have the best facilities in the league outside the QEO, but we just can't get the locals to step up to major league footy,'' he said.

Reid said the club is hopeful of signing "two or three'' high-profile recruits in the next few weeks.

"We're confident we can get a few quality players from outside of Maryborough,'' Reid said.

"It's the locals we need to come on board to ensure we survive."