If you love sport – or even if you simply want to visit somewhere of global significance – the sooner you take a
tour of the
MCG, the better.
The MCG is a place that oozes
history. It hosted cricket's
first ever test match in 1877, the
Olympics in 1956, cricket's first ever one day international in 1971, the
infamous underarm delivery in 1981, a papal rally in 1986, the cricket World Cup final in 1992 (pictured) and the
Commonwealth Games in 2006. It has also been the scene of numerous
AFL grand finals, World Cup qualifiers, Bledisloe Cup clashes, State of Origin encounters and blockbuster concerts. If Melbourne is the sporting capital of Australia, then the MCG is its parliament.
During tours, it is impossible to escape from all this extraordinary history – not that you'd want to. The
program includes visits to the Ponsford Stand, the coaches' box, the cricket viewing room, the Long Room, the Bill Lawry Centre and the MCC Library. Plus – subject to availability – your guide will take you into the players' changing rooms and let you step onto The G's hallowed turf. Don't forget your camera, because this is an experience you'll never want to forget.
Tours take approximately one hour and begin from gate 3. They are held daily (aside from event days, Good Friday and Christmas), departing on a regular basis between 10am and 3pm. They
cost $20 for adults, $16 for concession, $10 for 5-15 year olds, $50 for families (two adults and four children) and nothing for under-5s. If combined with admission to the
National Sports Museum (which is onsite), the price is $30, 23, $15, $60 and nothing respectively.
While bookings are not essential, they are advised. You can reserve your place by phone (9657-8879) or e-mail (mcg_tours@mcc.org.au).
To plan your trip,
click here.
