Why Shane Warne’s MCG was a booze-free affair

The state memorial for cricket legend Shane Warne will be free of alcohol, with a total booze ban for the MCG. Here’s why.

Shane Warne’s MCG memorial is booze-free at the request of his family.

More than 50,000 fans were expected at the ground on Wednesday night, but all the bars at the ground were closed.

Multiple sources revealed that the family wanted a respectful occasion, confirming they had asked for the beer ban.

Warne, who had his own bar at Crown Casino and his own gin range, was a fan of partying with friends.

A can of his 708 Gin – referencing his Test wicket haul – was on his coffin at his private funeral earlier this month.

Shane Warne Funeral

But his memorial was also an official state funeral, paid for by the Victorian taxpayers.

“It’s a state funeral, it’s not like you would be having beers at St Patrick’s Cathedral,” a source said.

Australia’s closed borders during Covid-19, which turned the tap off on immigration, also posed problems.

A can of Victoria Bitter (VB) beer, a packet of cigarettes and a meat pie placed beneath Warne’s statute outside the MCG. Picture: William West

There is a shortage of hospitality staff in Melbourne – so much so that the State Government spent $7 million on a recruiting drive this week.

Shane Warne Funeral

And overall, Australia’s unemployment rate is at historic lows of four per cent.

The alcohol ban significantly eased pressure on the MCG’s catering company, which has been struggling for staff to keep outlets open during regular football matches

Originally published as Why Shane Warne’s MCG was a booze-free affair