When Berry last played in Ballarat, he was an 18-year-old captain at the Greater Western Victoria Rebels. He is returning as a 21-year-old captain at the Brisbane Lions and is enjoying his trip down memory lane.

"Obviously I've had a lot of great memories on this field," he said.

"To get back out here and share our journey with the local community is great."

Berry, as well as his long-time-teammate and best mate Hugh McCluggage ran out onto the Mars Stadium ground on Friday night as final preparation for their round eight AFL clash with the Western Bulldogs.

See what Jarrod had to say about his return to his former home ground:

As the Lions adjusted to the 15 degree temperature drop between Brisbane and Ballarat, coach Chris Fagan made sure they were not alone in their battle with the elements, joining his players in a singlet and shorts for their training session.

Berry believes his coaches action went along way in helping the Lions get motivated for training.

"(Fagan) works off the philosophy that if he's putting his players through it, he has to go through it," Berry laughed.

"You saw him run out with us which caused a bit of ya-hooing and got us up and about and brought a bit of energy to training so that was great."

Like many others have said in the lead up to the match, Berry was quick to point out the quality of the ground.

"(The surface) is in top nick - it's going to be great, hopefully the rain holds off though."

Berry is expecting a "big country-footy" game atmosphere when the Lions and Dogs take to the ground.

"Hopefully it's a bit like local footy, you'll see the blokes standing up on the hill having a few beers or what-not. Hopefully people come out and get through the cold and watch a great game."

Berry and the Lions will take on the Western Bulldogs at Mars Stadium in front of what may be a capacity crowd at 1.45pm on Saturday.