West Coast Eagles will take on the Collingwood Magpies at the MCG on Saturday, with Tasmanian fans expected to be glued to television screens from 2.30pm. 

Grand final day is full of celebration and commiseration for fans, but Tasmania Police Inspector Ruth Orr said it’s also a busy day for officers.  

“Please enjoy the day, particularly if your team is in the grand final, but do it safely and responsibly,” she said. 

There will be a heightened police presence around the North on Saturday, with extra foot patrols planned for Launceston’s city centre and entertainment precincts.

Several traffic patrols, including vehicle checks, and random breath and drug testing, are also planned.

“AFL grand final day, historically, is one of our busiest days in terms of calls for assistance,” Inspector Orr said.

Footy fans are reminded to be aware of the fatal five factors – speed, failure to wear seatbelts or helmets, alcohol and drugs, distraction, and driving whilst tired.