Mark Blicavs is unfazed by the prospect of playing in extreme heat when the Cats take on Essendon in Shepparton on Saturday afternoon.

The Goulburn Valley is in the midst of a heatwave, with the Bureau of Meteorology predicting a top temperature of close to 40 for game-day.

The forecast could result in the game being shortened and longer breaks being taken between quarters.

“There’ll be plenty of ice-packs and cold water, but we’re looking forward to another hard hit-out,” Blicavs said during a break in Geelong’s Australia Post Community Camp in the Greater Shepparton region on Thursday.

“The heat does make a difference, but both teams have to play in it.”

The Cats played Gold Coast in Townsville  during last year’s NAB Challenge, and Bliacvs believes they learned a lot that day about dealing with stifling conditions.

“We’ve also worked really hard over the pre-season in hot conditions,” he said.

“We’re all fit young guys, so we’ll be fine with it.”

Blicavs was among the star attractions when the Cats and Bombers joined forces to host a super-clinic for schoolkids at Congupna on Wednesday afternoon.

“It’s been fantastic,” he said. “Schools from all around this area have come together to be part of the Powercor Country Program.

“It’s really hot here, but it’s fantastic. The kids have been really enthusiastic and really loving it, so it’s good to be a part of it.”

Cats players enjoy a happy snap with children from the Tallygaroopna Primary School

Saturday’s game between Geelong and Essendon at Shepparton’s Deakin Reserve is expected to attract a crowd of around 8,000.

The game begins at 2.05pm.