VICTORIA and the All Stars will play a State of Origin exhibition game on Friday 28 February at Marvel Stadium to help raise funds to support the Australian bushfire disaster.

It comes on the back of a $2.5m donation from the AFL, the clubs and the AFL Players Association, with $1m provided directly to the Australian Red Cross Disaster Relief and Recovery Fund, and the further $1.5m kickstarting a Community Relief Fund for grassroots facilities.

Port Adelaide General Manager - Football Chris Davies says it has been a devastating time for the Australian community, and the club, in conjunction with the AFL, are doing what they can to support those affected by the bushfires.

“It has been devastating seeing the bushfires sweep through Australia, especially close to home in the Adelaide Hills and Kangaroo Island,” Davies told portadelaidefc.com.au.

“Our thoughts are with those communities who have been affected, and we thank all of the firefighters and other responders who have worked tirelessly during these difficult times.

“As a football industry, we wanted to come together and help anyway we could. We hope this match will raise plenty of funds for those who most need it.

“We will continue to work closely with the AFL in finding ways to provide continued support for the community.”

The match will take place during the second week of the Marsh Community Series, with a maximum of three players eligible from each AFL club.

The Victorian side will be coached by Richmond premiership coach Damien Hardwick, while the All Stars will be led by Swans premiership coach John Longmire.

The AFLW match between Collingwood and Melbourne will be moved from Victoria Park and played as a curtain-raiser to the State of Origin exhibition match.

The match will be broadcast on Channel Seven, Fox Footy, the AFL Live Official App, Kayo and various radio partners.

Victorian and All Stars squads will be announced at a later date.