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Important advice: BBL derby on Saturday

Tuesday, January 02, 2018


Fans attending the Big Bash League doubleheader between the Stars and Renegades on Saturday are urged to plan their journey and avoid driving to the MCG, with no public car parking in Yarra Park.

The action will commence with a women’s BBL match at 2.20pm, ahead of the men’s game at 7.10pm. All gates will open at 1.15pm, and one ticket gains entry to both matches.

No public car parking in Yarra Park

In keeping with arrangements during the first three days of the Boxing Day Test, there will be no public car parking in Yarra Park on Saturday.

A limited number of spaces will be available for disability permit holders and other authorised vehicles via Gate 3.

The decision is based on safety and security considerations; in particular the need for a greater distance between vehicles and pedestrians in Yarra Park and the MCG concourse.

“We strongly advise fans not to drive all the way to the MCG, and to take public transport where possible,” said MCC CEO Stuart Fox.

“With no public car parking in Yarra Park, those who can’t avoid driving are urged to arrive early and consider parking in the city or an area near to the ground; then walk or catch public transport to the stadium itself.”

The MCG is accessible via a number of public transport options, with Richmond and Jolimont railway stations in close proximity, as well as several major tram and bus routes.

Be prepared and arrive early

With a large crowd expected fans are being asked to arrive earlier than usual and to minimise the number of bags, or bring clear bags, in order to reduce the wait time in gate queues.

All patrons will have their bags checked and be subject to hand-held wanding before entry, as has been the case at all MCG events for the past two years.

Attendees are also advised to pre-purchase their tickets online to avoid delays at ticket windows on Saturday.

“Given the crowd size predicted we cannot say it more strongly – if you don’t pre-purchase your ticket and head to the stadium early you run the risk of missing the first ball,” said Mr Fox.

“With an earlier women’s BBL game, family-friendly pre-match entertainment, the National Sports Museum, as well as an abundance of food and beverage outlets, there is plenty on offer for early arriving fans.”

With the current weather forecast predicting 41 degrees on Saturday, patrons attending the earlier women’s match in particular are urged to come prepared with hats, sunscreen and other sun protecting items.

Drinking taps and water refill stations are located throughout the stadium to assist fans in staying hydrated.