For many tourists who visit our shores they dream of seeing an AFL game played in the flesh.

For more than 600 students this dream was made into a reality last weekend, as they witnessed Carlton take on the Gold Coast at Etihad Stadium.

The TAFE and University students from more than 60 different countries were taking part in the Carlton Football Club's New Blue program.

The program aims to promote social inclusion among Melbourne's international students, by getting them involved in our football culture.

Carlton's Multicultural Partnership Co-ordinator Doug Stevenson says all the students were thrilled to have watched their first ever AFL game.

"It was great to see the students joining in with the crowd and cheering their lungs out," Stevenson said.

"Overall it was a great way to get them involved and help make them feel a part of our community."

For more information on Carlton's New Blue program, contact 1300 CARLTON.