FREMANTLE coach Mark Harvey has encouraged fans of both WA clubs to get along to Saturday's bushfire appeal match at Subiaco Oval for what he said should be a huge event.

All proceeds from the match are being used to help sporting clubs affected by the Victorian bushfires – many of which have been destroyed, losing facilities and grounds.

 Harvey said that, given the cause, he did not balk at throwing his side into a pre-season derby with the season just three weeks away. 

"I didn't hesitate at all and neither did the club for that matter," he said on Wednesday.

"I think it's a fantastic game, two of the biggest sporting clubs in WA are actually playing a game to represent and raise money for small country towns that have been affected by these fires.

"And really, sporting communities really pull together towns like that. So I think it's a great gesture on behalf of the two teams in WA to put this game on in such early stages of the season.

"Let's hope that everyone gets to the game and really respects it and we do raise a lot of money for those people that need it."

Harvey said he had players coming back from injury that wanted to be a part of the charity match, despite not being ready.

The coach will recall Aaron Sandilands, David Mundy and caretaker captain Michael Johnson for the match, while Matthew Pavlich will also play.

West Coast will rest star ruckman Dean Cox and other key players for the clash in preparation for round one. Harvey understood the Eagles' approach, saying despite the nature of the match clubs had to be cautious with their players at this time of year.