Indian incentive tour groups return to the MCG
The MCG is often referred to as a shrine, a citadel, a colosseum and the holy grail – a pilgrimage for cricket fans to flock to. As Melbourne welcomes back the international incentive market, we were beyond excited to host our first Indian group in over 3 years, as over 600 guests descended upon the stadium.
The Indian contingent from a global leader in Insurance, overwhelmingly voted the MCG tour and dinner was the highlight of their Australian trip. As part of a five-day, two cities visit to Australia, the incentive group also visited Yarra Valley, Healesville Sanctuary, Phillip Island and walking tours of the Melbourne laneways.
A carefully curated tour
Arriving in waves, guests were greeted at the entrance gates with a marsala tea and samosa as they took in their first views of the colossal stadium. From there, guests moved into the Australian Sports Museum and were immediately in awe of the collection on display, especially their chance to see Shane Warne remembered in a hologram as part of the current exhibit.
Over 40 tour guides resplendent in their famous striped jackets, were stationed around the MCG and Australian Sports Museum, providing a comprehensive insight for the delegates, directing them along a path that took in the boundary line, player change rooms, level 4 viewing deck, Members’ Reserve, and famous Long Room. Before arriving to the Members’ Dining Room, there was a must stop moment – the famous photograph of the Indian cricket legend, Sachin Tendulkar with our own hero batsman, Sir Donald Bradman.
Capturing the moment
At every stage of the pre-dinner tour, an opportunity for guests to capture their moment was considered.
The MCG scoreboards and LED signage were lit up as branded backdrops for ‘selfies.’ Large signage backdrops for group photos were also set up on the hallowed turf. The media centre and players changerooms were open for guests to experience the inner sanctum. This all culminated in one large aerial group photo shot from a drone high above the Members’ Reserve stand, directly outside the famous Long Room.
In awe of cricketing greatness
As a final highlight, as the guests entered the Committee Room, legendary cricketer and former Australian captain Adam Gilchrist, was waiting to meet and greet them.
After posing for photos and signing cricket bats for guests to take home, Gilchrist then took to the stage were a Bollywood star interviewed him as the crowd sat in silence, in awe of every word the legend spoke.
Traditional catering, with chef collaborations
MCG Events welcomed the visiting Indian chefs into our kitchens, and we collaborated to develop a traditional menu including Butter Chicken, Tawa Sabzi, Khumb Mutter Curry, with traditional condiments.
We love nothing more than showcasing an array of international cuisine and accommodating requests for all styles of menus and themes.
Welcoming back the international tourist
India is currently the largest international market returning to Australia for incentive-based travel, and Melbourne is their top destination.
With the upcoming T20 World Cup Cricket being held in Australia from mid October 2022 – the final at the MCG – we are looking forward to welcoming more of the Indian market to the MCG.
A representative of the company was effusive in praise of MCG Events and the event experience at the ground.
“We chose the sporting capital of the world, Melbourne, as our destination with a culmination evening hosted exclusively at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground.
The MCG brought to life cricketing fever, evoking the very same passion for which Indians are well known. A patriotic moment captured the hearts of all when the national anthem of India was played, echoing across the 100,000 seater stadium with the national flag symbolically flown on MCG’s larger than life digital scoreboards. Our entire company would like to extend our compliments and laud the organizing committee of MCG for ensuring a flawless experience in handling over 700 guests. In India they say there is no greater passion than that of cricket and the MCG brought that very emotion back to life!”
