More than 2500 flocked to a North Melbourne intra-club practice match _ the highlight of the first day of the Kangaroos' three-day AFL community camp in the city.

North Melbourne officials were rapt with the turnout, as was VCFL south west area manager Brett Anderson, who is co-ordinating the camp.

Anderson said the crowd had exceeded his expectations.

"We were looking for a big roll up, but this is brilliant," he said.

"What a great atmosphere."

Anderson said it augured well for the AFL pre-season challenge match to be played at Eureka Stadium next month.

He said, if this many people were interested in a practice match, imagine the crowd which should be attracted to a full-scale clash.

In the lead up to last night's match, North Melbourne captain Brent Harvey urged Ballarat football fans to come out in force to see the Kangaroos.

He said if the people of Ballarat came out in force, the AFL would sit up and take notice.

"Ballarat must take this opportunity," he said.

It did.

North Melbourne assistant coach Darren Crocker said it was great to see the people of Ballarat supporting the Kangaroos like this.

"It's a great night.

"The (ground) surface is fantastic. The facilities are great," he said.

The community camp continues today with players visiting regional schools, a super clinic and coaching and youth forums.

The Woady Yaloak campuses of Snake Valley, Ross Creek, Smythesdale and Scarsdale, Meredith, Cape Clear, Clunes, Hepburn, Daylesford, Creswick and Clunes are among primary schools being visited.