IT’S THE birthplace of Test and one-day international cricket, home of the AFL grand final, and host to many other sporting events.
And even when there’s no action on the pitch at Melbourne Cricket Ground, or “The G”, as it is affectionately known to locals, there is still plenty of action to be had.
Victoria’s spiritual home of sport, the MCG is one of Australia’s premier sporting stadiums, steeped in tradition and heritage.
As the largest stadium in the southern hemisphere, all eyes turn to the ground when the AFL grand final is staged in late September, and on Boxing Day when the traditional cricket Test starts.
The stadium has hosted cricket matches since 1853, been the main arena at the Olympic Games in 1956 and the Commonwealth Games in 2006.
Following the 2006 refurbishment of the Ponsford, Olympic and Members stands for the Commonwealth games, the MCG now has a seating capacity of just over 100,000.
Also home to the National Sports Museum – which includes Australia’s largest sporting collection – the MCG runs group tours for seniors and is popular with social clubs such as Probus, U3A, retirements clubs and senior citizens’ organisations.
The all-inclusive package offers (from $44.50) include lunch in the Members Reserve, a visit to the museum and a tour of the MCG. Seniors groups can take a self-guided or guided tour of the sports museum. It is recommended to set aside at least 90 minutes to fully experience the museum.
- (03) 9657-8879, bookings essential, mcg.org.au