John Brumby announces $55m facelift for MCG's Great Southern Stand

THE MCG's Southern Stand will get a $55 million facelift in time for the 2013 AFL season.

An artist's impression of a refurbished sports bar as part of the $55m redevelopment.

THE MCG's Southern Stand will get a $55 million facelift in time for the 2013 AFL season.

The overhaul will make it easier for fans to get into the games and more enjoyable inside with improved bar and food areas in the 20 year old stand.

In pictures: Inside the new-look Great Southern Stand

The Melbourne Cricket Club yesterday provided an additional $20 million on top of the $35 million already pledged by the State Government to make sure Melbourne remains the country's sporting capital.

More than 2.7 million fans attended games of footy at the MCG this season with another 150,000 fans expected over the weekend.

Premier John Brumby said the upgrade was needed for the MCG to remain the nation's greatest sports venues.

"There is no better place to watch footy than at the people's ground,'' he said.

The upgrade will provide:

- better food and beverage areas and toilets

- improved entry points

- upgraded function rooms and sports rooms

- installation of plasma screens.

AFL chief executive Andrew Demetriou said this will be a major boost for fans.

"September is the month when the MCG really shines and we see a full MCG as we will this week reinforces the importance of the ground to our game and to supporters across the country.

Construction is scheduled to begin in June 2011.