On the field (particularly the second half) was disappointing for Carlton in Maroochydore, but off the field the visit to the Sunshine Coast was a huge success.

The Carlton players and coaching staff ensured the Carlton brand and AFL were well promoted during the brief visit to the area.

A Friday luncheon in Maroochydore hosted by the local Chamber of Commerce was attended by Brett Ratten, Andrew McKay, Nick Duigan and Michael Jamison. All four Carlton representatives spoke during the luncheon with Brett Ratten providing the guests with an insight into the Blues pre-season and the next day's match against the Brisbane Lions.

Andrew McKay spoke about returning to Carlton in the role of General Manager Football Operations while Michael Jamison talked about his injury and his return to playing. Nick Duigan was asked about his first season in the AFL last year and preparing for his first game of the pre- season.

Carlton's open training session on Friday afternoon at the Maroochydore Multi Sport Complex attracted a good crowd. Not only did the supporters get to see the team in action up close the players mingled with the crowd, signing autographs and having their photos taken.

On Friday evening Assistant Coaches Mark Riley and John Barker were the special guests at a local junior football club function in Maroochydore. Both were interviewed and spent time with supporters before returning to the team hotel in Maloolooba for a meeting with the players.

Saturday morning the players enjoyed the wonderful weather in Maloolooba with many spending time talking with local supporters who recognized the AFL stars. It was great to see the players relaxing with the locals and ensuring the supporters got the autographs and photos they were looking for.

An indication of Carlton's impact was the Chris Judd photo on the from page of the Sunshine Coast Daily. Chris was pictured with a young supporter from the training session the previous day.

Unfortunately after a positive first half the game against the Lions did not live up to the rest of the Carlton visit to the Sunshine Coast however there are sure to be many positive memories about the Blues brief time in Queensland.