This Saturday 30 September, the AFL Grand Final will be held at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, with the Collingwood Magpies taking on the Brisbane Lions. The match will start at 2.30pm.
If you're heading to the game, or you're planning on tuning in at the pub with mates, Yarra is the place to celebrate the AFL Grand Final this long weekend.
To ensure everyone stays safe, there are a few things to remember to make sure your Grand Final Day is a good one:
Road closures
There are no planned road closures of Swan Street on Grand Final Day, however Victoria Police could close Swan Street on the day if required.
Stay tuned to our social media channels for any updates. Brunton Avenue will be closed to all vehicles on Grand Final Day between 6am and 7pm.
Drinking in public places
Alcohol is not permitted in public spaces around Swan Street from 9pm Friday 29 September until 9am Sunday 1 October.
This does not include outdoor dining areas at licensed venues. Alcohol can be consumed in these areas.
For more, visit: Local laws in Yarra
Getting around
With a crowd of 100,000 people expected at the MCG, we recommend planning ahead and using public transport.
Trains: Metro Trains will be running extra services before and after the game.
There are two train stations close to the MCG:
- Jolimont station: Hurstbridge and Mernda lines
- Richmond station: Alamein, Belgrave, Cranbourne, Frankston, Glen Waverley, Lilydale, Pakenham and Sandringham lines.
Trams: There will be extra tram services around the MCG.
Bus: Route 246 runs from Clifton Hill/Queens Parade to Elsternwick Station and stops on Punt Road near Olympic Boulevard.
Watching the game
There are a number of venues across Yarra where the game will play on the big screen. Whether you are interested in football or not, enjoy the atmosphere and support local businesses.
Public safety
With an expected crowd of 100,000 at the MCG, it's likely there will be an increase in visitors to the surrounding area, including Swan Street.
We ask that everyone who attends a Grand Final Day celebration in Yarra is respectful and considerate of other people. Victoria Police and Yarra's Local Law Officers will continue to patrol the area.
There will be increased cleaning and rubbish collection in Richmond.
Council has been working closely with Victoria Police to address anti-social behaviour.
You can report any anti-social behaviour to Victoria Police on 131 444 or 000.
During the week leading up to Grand Final Day, there will be a pop-up Brisbane Lions merchandise shop at Fitzroy Town Hall's Reading Room. The store will be open 10am to 6pm on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday of the week, and 9am to 11am on Saturday (Grand Final Day).
