Melbourne Free Tram Zone extended to the MCG for Grand Final week

FOOTY fans will get free tram rides between the CBD and the ‘G, Australia’s most famous sporting ground, later this week.

There will be free trams to the MCG from Wednesday. Picture: Jake Nowakowski

FOOTY fans will get free tram rides between the CBD and the ‘G later this week.

Melbourne’s Free Tram Zone will be extended to cover Australia’s most famous sporting ground from Wednesday until Grand Final Saturday.

This means that services will be free from within the city centre as well as up to Wellington Parade stops at Jolimont — opposite the MCG.

Trams will also be free from the CBD up to Rod Laver Arena and the Hisense Arena/MCG stop.

Yarra Tram’s drivers will make announcements to ensure passengers are aware of the temporary extended zone.

Stops within the zone will also have customer information updates.

Acting Premier and Public Transport Minister Jacinta Allan said people heading to and from the week’s festivities could jump on board.

“The Free Tram Zone will be extended to the MCG from Wednesday to help visitors and locals make the most of Grand Final week — including the livesite, Grand Final Friday, and the big match,” she said.

“It will make it quicker, cheaper and easier for fans to enjoy the footy and a night out in the city if they want to kick on.”

Dogs and Swans fans should also brace for heavy rain and strong winds during the AFL Grand Final parade in Melbourne.

A cool top of 13 has been forecast for Friday, with up to 35mm of rain expected to fall across the state.

Showers have also been forecast for Grand Final day but will clear in the afternoon, ahead of a top of 18 degrees.