Tickets for the March 15 match can be purchased through Ticketmaster.

“There’s less than 2000 tickets available for the game and we want to ensure that people are aware they need to purchase their tickets online to avoid disappointment,” AFLCV general manager Paul Hamilton said on Friday.

“This includes Carlton and Collingwood members, who are granted free entry, but only if they have registered online.

“We want people to be conscious that it is unlikely any tickets will be available at the gate on the day given the number already sold.”

Tickets are also available for a corporate event featuring guest speakers organised through the Regional Administration Centre by phoning 5434 2400.

The NAB Challenge match between the Blues and Magpies kicks off at 4.40pm.

In addition to the QEO match, Collingwood will stay in the region for a further two days as part of a Community Camp.

“The Magpies will visit schools, hospitals, nursing homes and other community groups,” Hamilton said.

“There will also be a clinic for children aged between five and 12 at the QEO on the Monday from 4pm to 5.15pm where players will be teaching skills of the game.”

Collingwood’s community camp will feature a dinner on Monday, March 16, at the All Seasons Hotel.

“Patrons who attend will hear from club leaders, such as coach Nathan Buckley, and will have the unique opportunity to get to know a Collingwood player, with at least one sitting on their table,” Hamilton said.

For details or bookings, phone 5434 2400.

• Meanwhile, Maryborough has suffered a blow with Ballarat Football League club Lake Wendouree announcing the signing of Magpies’ skipper Luke Bucknall.

“Just from watching him train, he looks like he is going to be a valuable inclusion for us,” Lake Wendouree coach Gavin Webb told the Ballarat Courier.

“That’s probably where we lacked a bit, was somebody with his experience. He is about 25 and should really help out our younger guys.”