AFL: Grand Final fever grips Melbourne

Geelong star Gary Ablett (centre) trains with the Cats before tomorrow's Grand Final against St Kilda. Photo / Getty Images

Melbourne's CBD today sees one of the year's traditional highlights take place - the AFL grand final parade.

More than 70,000 footie fans are expected to line the footpaths today for the appetiser to tomorrow's big match.

Geelong and St Kilda supporters will line the city's streets, trying to catch a glimpse of their heroes before tomorrow's grand final.

For Geelong, it's their third appearance in the final in as many years. In 2007 they thrashed Port Adelaide, but last year Hawthorn defeated them to take the trophy.

St Kilda fans have become used to heartache over the years, but this season's squad has a chance to change their fortunes.

While the forecast of rain and wind across Victoria today will likely keep a few thousand away from the parade, nothing will likely deter the truly dedicated fans from lining the barricades.

The parade kicks off in St Kilda Road at midday local time.

In an unfortunate clash of codes, the Preliminary Final match in the NRL between the Melbourne Storm and the Brisbane Broncos is also on in the city tomorrow, starting shortly after the conclusion of the AFL Grand Final.

- NZHERALD STAFF