GEELONG will begin its 2016 premiership season campaign by taking on reigning premier Hawthorn in an Easter Monday blockbuster at the MCG.

The Cats will be the home team, with the clash expected to begin at 3.20pm and be telecast by Channel 7 and Fox Footy.

Chris Scott's team has lost its past four matches against the Hawks, but there is sure to be plenty of interest surrounding the clash.

Providing he gets through the pre-season unscathed, it will be Patrick Dangerfield's first home and away appearance for Geelong.

Full round one fixture:

Thursday, March 24
Richmond v Carlton, MCG

Saturday
Melbourne v Greater Western Sydney, MCG
Gold Coast v Essendon, Metricon Stadium
Sydney Swans v Collingwood, ANZ Stadium
North Melbourne v Adelaide, Etihad Stadium 

Sunday
Western Bulldogs v Fremantle, Etihad Stadium
Port Adelaide v St Kilda, Adelaide Oval
West Coast v Brisbane Lions, Domain Stadium 

Monday
Geelong v Hawthorn, MCG