You've walked past it, you've driven past it, you've even been there – so isn't it time you finally took a
tour of
Etihad Stadium?
Docklands Stadium, as it is generically known, has an interesting
history. Construction of this innovative and modern venue began on the site of Melbourne's derelict docklands in 1998, before Essendon and Port Adelaide played the first game in 2000. It boasts two special features: a retractable roof to protect fans from the elements, and a skilful design that maximises atmosphere by bringing people as close to the action as possible.
This is just some of what you'll learn during a tour. You'll also get to experience what it must be like on match day as you pop into the players' changing rooms, the briefing room and the coaches' box. Plus, you'll have a chance to walk up the umpires' tunnel and enter the media centre (which doubles as the AFL tribunal).
Regular weekday tours are held at 11am, 1pm and 3pm (although the final tour is scrapped on match days). If you can organise a group (or tag along with someone else's), you can also take an evening or weekend tour. Tours last for one hour and depart from the Customer Service Centre, which can be found on the external apron opposites gates two and three (Bourke St footbridge side). The price is $14 for adults, $11 for students/concession, $7 for under-14s and $37 for families (two adults and two children).
These photos should whet your appetite:
The old docklands
Full house for the 2009 A-League grand final
Chaos, as Buddy Franklin gets his 100th goal of the 2008 season
It's a jungle out there
To plan your trip,
click here.
