AFL Grand Final after-party changes aimed to beat crowd crush

FANS who want to get into the post-premiership party will have to abide by these key changes, as the MCG tries to avoid a repeat of last year’s crowd problems.

FANS will be banned from taking bags into a post-premiership party on the MCG today amid changes to the Grand Final after-party aimed at beating crowd crushes.

Supporters already inside the stadium will be able to stay in the venue for the premiership party that will see Jimmy Barnes perform and the premiers paraded on stage.

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Collingwood’s victory against Richmond earlier this month was a sellout crowd. Picture: Mark Stewart

Up to 20,000 people without Grand Final tickets will also be able to access the arena.

But MCC spokesman Shane brown said strict entry conditions would apply.

Fans are arriving this morning. A Collingwood MCC member heads in early. Picture: AAP Image/Julian Smith

“Bags are not permitted into the stadium after the match and all fans will be wanded on their way in to the premiership party,’’ he said.

In a bid to avoid a repeat of bottlenecks at the ground which last year saw crowds build as fans left the venue and others tried to get in, entry requirements will also be changed.

Access to the stadium post-match will only be via a queue on the lawn area in Yarra Park opposite MCG gate two from about 6.30pm-6.45pm, or whenever it is safe to allow entry.

“While entry to the concert is free, fans will need to obtain an entry pass from that queue before they can come in,’’ Mr Brown said.

“Once inside, they can sit on levels one and four in the seating bowl, not on the arena.

“The changed approach is designed to create a more streamlined entry for the post-match arrivals and avoid congestion at the gates with the people who are leaving straight after the footy.’’

The concert will start at 7pm, slightly later than last year.

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