Over 50,000 masks at stadium as Sydney hosts biggest event since start of COVID-19

It would take more than the rain to stop fans turning up in droves to the largest event in Australia since the start of the pandemic, with almost 40,000 rugby league fans flooding through the gates of ANZ Stadium on Sunday night ahead of the NRL grand final.

Stadium staff were at each entry point handing out free masks to fans, with the venue purchasing 50,000 masks in preparation for the Melbourne Storm and Penrith Panthers decider.

Fans weren't allowed to leave their seats unless purchasing food, drinks or going to the bathroom with all areas swarming with COVID-19 marshals.

Storm fan and Canberra dad Chris Anderson, 40, said while it was "a little bit weird" seeing most people in masks at the stadium, his family was "excited" to be there unlike so many fans from Victoria.

Storm fan and Canberra dad Chris Anderson, 40, said while it was "a little bit weird" seeing most people in masks at the stadium, his family was "excited" to be there unlike so many Storm fans from Victoria.Credit: Sarah Keoghan

"It certainly will be something that these boys will look back on in years to come after what we've been through. It's a special occasion," he said. "It's nice getting a season all the way through."

Spectators’ temperatures were checked on entry and they were asked to check in using QR codes.

Spectators were also "strongly encouraged" to wear masks both inside and while travelling to and from the venue, with the message reiterated via signage heading into the stadium.

With the venue at full 50 per cent capacity as per NSW government restrictions, fans were seated in a checkerboard-style seating plan to allow for social distancing.

Fans were able to purchase up to eight tickets, with Ticketek's booking system automatically leaving seats in front and behind groups empty.

Fans were also encouraged to watch post-game player interviews on the big screens to avoid a rush out of the venue, with fans asked to "enjoy the post-match show from your seats".

Fans were also asked to buy merchandise at stalls located outside the stadium to avoid lines inside and were asked to arrive early to allow for the extra precautions.

Central Coast father and son duo Steve Sharp, 71 and Jay Sharp, 34, said they had been "looking forward" to watching the Panthers in the grand final after only being able to make one game this season due to COVID-19.

Central Coast father and son duo Steve Sharp, 71 and Jay Sharp, 34, said they had been "looking forward" to watching the Panthers in the grand final after only being able to make one game this season due to COVID-19.Credit: Sarah Keoghan

The pair had brought along their Panthers branded mask - which seemed to be a huge hit for fans.

"They've done a great job of letting everybody know what is going," Steve Sharp said.

Jay said he had earlier feared the season would never be completed.

"I was worried they would be going so well and then they would call the season off," the 34-year-old said.