The ``Keep the Hawks in Tassie" group, which has an online community of more than 1400 members, is running a bumper sticker campaign at Hawthorn's upcoming clash at Aurora Stadium. 

Group spokesman Kyle Barrett said the stickers would be a clear indication of the popularity the Hawthorn deal had with Tasmanian people. 

``For me, it's the grassroots recognition that it's important to people,'' Mr Barrett said. 

``The council and state government are keen, but it's important to show that there's support in the community.''

Mr Barrett said responses to the campaign had been positive so far. 

``It's early days, but people are supportive of the cause.''

Launceston Balls and Bumpers shop owner Jane Freeman said the Hawks deal was crucial to local businesses.

``We get lots of tourists coming to watch the opposition club, and plenty of people travelling from Hobart,'' Ms Freeman said.

``You get one group of footballers that come, and the circle that follows, it's a flow-on effect. People come over for the game, and then decide to come back here for holidays.''

Stickers will be distributed at the gate when Hawthorn takes on the Western Bulldogs on Sunday, August 3.