The North Melbourne Tasmanian Kangaroos has selected key forward Claire Mahony with its first pick in the 2024 Telstra AFL Draft, No.36 overall.

Hailing from Beaufort in Victoria's Goldfields region, Mahony shares a sheep-farming background with her new captain Emma Kearney, who also grew up on her family's farm in the state's western district.

Mahony caught recruiters' attention while playing for Greater Western Victoria Rebels in the Coates Talent League this season with her strong marking and forward craft.

In her first season in the league, the powerful tall kicked eight goals from 11 games and averaged 4.5 marks.

Mahony becomes the Kangaroos' latest recruit in the 2024 off-season, joining two-time All Australian player Eilish Sheerin, traded from Richmond, and utility Ariana Hetherington, who arrived from Fremantle.