But by Saturday morning, they had more than 200 children, families and elders signed up – enough to fill four big coaches.

It was the first time Bendigo and District Aboriginal Co-operative has co-ordinated a bus trip to Melbourne for the annual Dreamtime at the ‘G match between Richmond and Essendon.

For many, it will be the first time they have visited Melbourne – let alone the MCG.

While some children will be taken directly to the MCG to prepare for their involvement in half-time Auskick matches, others will experience public events at Federation Square before taking part in The Long Walk to the ground.

Ms Harradine, the BDAC chief executive officer, said it was one of the first times the entire Indigenous community had taken part in a trip of this type.

She said it was something the community would never forget.

“It’s such a wonderful chance for all to show our respect for our culture and beliefs at such a spectacle like this,” she said.

“Events such as this open the discussion about culture with the wider community. It makes you feel a real deep sense of pride.

“Our group is a mix of elders and young people and we feel so honoured that we are able to share this experience with so many members of our community.

“Just simply the opportunity to be part of this special experience, let alone being part of an 80,000-plus crowd, is something to be long-remembered.”

The buses set off from BDAC’s Prouses Road site at midday on Saturday. The recently-opened site includes a range of Aboriginal health services and a Men’s Shed.

Pre-game ritual The Long Walk was inspired by Essendon legend Michael Long’s walk to Canberra in 2004 to put the spotlight on the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

The Dreamtime at the G match was the brainchild of former Essendon coach Kevin Sheedy and features traditional ceremonies and performances.