The Geelong Cats have reached a membership record, surpassing 43,000 members for the first time before Christmas.

The current tally of 43,007 is significantly higher than 40,035 at the same time last year.

The club achieved a record membership tally of 52,195 in 2016, surpassing 50,000 members for the first time in club history.

Geelong’s Chief Executive Brian Cook said after a record 2016 season, the club is setting the bar even higher.

“We have seen great growth across all areas of our membership and for us to have surpassed 43,000 members by Christmas is a positive sign,” Cook said.

“So far just under 5000 new members have signed up and our renewal rate is improved on previous years.

“Our target for 2017 is 57,000 members so we are heading in the right direction to achieve that goal.

“It’s an exciting time to be a member with the new Brownlow Stand opening in May 2017. The new Geelong Social Club has been a huge success and is sold out but there are still quality seats available for purchase right around Simonds Stadium.

“Without our members, our club would be nothing so we sincerely thank those who have already signed up.”

Geelong Cats memberships will be available to purchase online at membership.geelongcats.com.au over the Christmas break.

The membership services office re-opens at 9am on Tuesday 3^rd January 2017.