Association Events Drive 30% Growth

MCG Events has reported a significant 30% increase in non-match day events over the past financial year (July 2023 – June 2024), marking a substantial rise from the previous 12 months. Association events now constitute the largest segment, representing 16% of all non-match day activities hosted at the iconic MCG. 

Throughout the 12-month period, the MCG played host to 53 association events, welcoming a total of 10,425 delegates to gather to experience Melbourne’s quintessential offerings within the stadium and its vibrant precinct.

“Our venue’s appeal lies in its unique blend of ‘Quintessential Melbourne’ experiences,” said Troy Stasinowsky, Director, Sales and Marketing. “From our renowned food philosophy highlighting ‘Victoria’s best, flavoured by Melbourne’, to our diverse event spaces such as rooftop bars, museums, galleries, and exclusive ‘all areas’ stadium tours, the MCG offers a memorable setting for any event.” 

Remaining World Class

Continuing its commitment to remaining a world-class stadium, the MCG has undertaken substantial refurbishments across its facilities. Over the past 18 months, seven event spaces have been refurbished, with two spaces receiving prestigious gold and silver medals at the Melbourne Design Awards. A new rooftop bar is currently under renovation, set to open in September, with three additional spaces in the Shane Warne Stand scheduled for refurbishment by February 2025. 

The redevelopment of the Olympic Stand’s Betty Cuthbert Lounge has also enhanced the venue’s appeal for association events. The removal of the central bar has created a more versatile exhibition space, complementing the plenary sessions held in the Olympic Room. The introduction of the Betty Cuthbert Bar as an additional catering and arrival zone has further enriched the event experience. 

Melbourne’s Sports and Entertainment Precinct

Collaboration with precinct partners Centrepiece and Pullman Melbourne on the Park has played a pivotal role in raising the MCG’s profile as a destination for association events, offering seamless ‘Meet, Celebrate, and Stay’ experiences in Melbourne’s vibrant sports and entertainment precinct. 

Since Delaware North’s appointment as the MCC’s hospitality partner in 2022, MCG Events has focused on expanding its non-match day hospitality offerings, particularly targeting business events. Recognized for its excellence, the MCG was awarded the Gold Winner for Business Event Venue at the 2022 Victorian Tourism Awards, and secured the Silver award in 2023, narrowly missing out to the Melbourne Conference and Exhibition Centre. 

“Our venue’s appeal lies in its unique blend of Quintessential Melbourne’ experiences,”