The AFL this week announced the reigning premier would visit Portland on February 13 and 14 for a community camp.

Included in the two-day itinerary is a training session with local clubs.

AFL Victoria’s South West Region development officer Jock Whiting, who was responsible for Portland’s successful bid, said he was thrilled the Cats chose to travel west for their community camp.

“It was a bit of a long shot,” Whiting told The Standard.

“Portland is a long way south and four years ago we tried to get a team to Hamilton but it didn’t work out.

“We thought we’d have a crack at getting Portland involved, thinking the AFL probably wouldn’t take up the opportunity but knowing the Portland council was very enthusiastic.”

The AFL short-listed 10 locations for clubs to choose from.

After Geelong headed to Port Fairy last year before eventually winning the flag, it decided to stick with routine and travel to the south-west again.

“It is just fantastic for our region,” Whiting said.

“Portland is a long way away but we’re thrilled Geelong chose to come here.

“Full credit to the AFL for acknowledging Portland as a town of high importance.”

Geelong arrives in Portland on Monday, February 13, and will attend a Glenelg Shire civic reception.

The Cats will then have time to settle into their accommodation before joining training sessions at local clubs and having tea at Portland Football Club.

The next morning, the players will visit aged care facilities, hospitals and secondary schools before hosting an AFL super clinic.

Whiting said more than 700 primary school pupils were confirmed for the clinic.

“Geelong enjoys interaction with the community and the community is very supportive of the concept,” he said.

“It’s great for the Portland region to have the full list of the reigning AFL premiership side in town.

“It’s an area where Geelong has a lot of support and I’m sure they will be hoping to expose the community to the Geelong Football Club.

“They understand the importance of giving back to country regions.”

Whiting said the club hoped to bring the 2011 premiership cup but this was not yet confirmed.