Yarra Park has a significant Indigenous pre-history, and is also noted for both its landscape and sporting heritage, dating back to the 1850s. Included in this heritage are the sporting statues that surround the MCG.
Like the stadium that adjoins it, Yarra Park is managed by Melbourne Cricket Club on behalf of the people of Victoria. MCC reports in to the Yarra Park Advisory Committee.
The Yarra Park Water Recycling Facility provides water for irrigation in the park, while a new Yarra Park Master Plan will provide a framework for the sustainable future use, management and renewal of the park to ensure its long term viability.
The MCC’s vision for Yarra Park sees the parkland being used by a variety of groups and individuals in a safe and reasonable manner.
Recreational Activity in Yarra Park
Barbeque and tailgate activities are not permitted in Yarra Park on MCG event days. If you're looking for a free alternative, the City of Melbourne operates a number of public barbecue facilities.
For non-event days, a permit is required if you plan to conduct any of the following activities:
- Erecting marquees
- Using amplified or noisy sound equipment
- Any commercial activity
To apply, download the Application to Use Yarra Park Reserve (PDF), complete the required details, and submit to yarrapark@mcc.org.au at least three days before your event. Permit fees are assessed on a case-by-case basis and may include a paddock hire fee.
All BBQ and tailgate activities are subject to the terms and conditions in the application form. If you intend to sell or distribute liquor, a separate liquor licence from the Victorian Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation (VCGLR) is also required. Permit applications are available via the Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission.
The following operational regulations apply to all approved activities in Yarra Park:
- No construction, maintenance works, bump-in, bump-out or heavy vehicle access before 7:00am Monday to Friday, or before 9:00am on weekends and public holidays.
- No construction, maintenance works, bump-in, bump-out or heavy vehicle exit after 8:00pm on any day.
- All activations, entertainment and events must conclude by 9:00pm Monday to Friday, or 10:00pm on weekends and public holidays (New Year's Eve excepted).
MCC welcomes and encourages the use of its beautiful wide open spaces by all park users for their fitness and recreational needs.
However, as the management of the park is governed by the Crown Land (Reserves) Act, it requires personal trainers to obtain a permit for such activity.
Download an Application to Use Yarra Park Reserve (PDF) or call MCC on (03) 9657 8888 with any enquiries.
