The entire team arrived at Town Hall this morning for the welcoming to mark the beginning of their community camp in the city. 

Over the next two days, players and coaches will take part in football clinics, visit community groups and hold autograph signings.

North Melbourne Football Club chief executive Carl Dilena made it clear the the team was here to stay.

"Our relationship with Ballarat keeps going from strength to strength," he said.

He also said more community programs would continue throughout the year and stressed the camp was not just about football but a community focus and social inclusion.

City of Ballarat Mayor Joshua Morris said the community camp allowed for the team to mix with the community and highlighted the team's visits to local schools as an important part of the camp