BOOM recruit Mitch Clark says he is looking forward to a new beginning with Melbourne.

Clark, who fronted a media conference at AAMI Park on Monday, expressed a sense of relief when he made the decision.

The former Brisbane Lion said it had been a tough week after he initially wanted to return to Fremantle, given he hails from Western Australia.  

“To leave Brisbane, I’m obviously chasing a fresh start,” he said.

“I probably have my heart set on going back to Fremantle.

“But I thought long and hard about it and I’m so happy that we got a deal done now and I’m here at the Melbourne footy club and I’m really excited by the opportunity.

“Hopefully I can add a bit to the club and it’s a bit of a fresh start here for everyone.”  

Clark played 82 matches with Brisbane Lions from 2006-11, before agreeing to join Melbourne late on Saturday night.

The Demons have exchanged selection No.12 to the Lions for the 200cm forward/ruckman.  

Having spoken with several members of Melbourne’s hierarchy, Clark said he was also delighted to receive a message from president Jim Stynes.  

“I haven’t personally spoken to Jim yet, but I’ve got a voice mail off him,” he said.

“I was really excited with that.”