Collingwood Announces Emergency Closure of Playground at Melbourne Cricket Ground
In an unexpected move that has left fans and families surprised, Collingwood Football Club has announced the emergency closure of the children’s playground at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). The announcement, made late last night, follows urgent safety assessments that revealed several structural and environmental risks within the much-loved recreation area.
Safety Comes First
The playground, which sits adjacent to the MCG precinct and has long been a hub for young fans during match days, was closed after safety inspectors raised red flags during a routine check. Reports indicate that worn play equipment, unstable surfaces, and concerns about crowd congestion on game days created an “unacceptable risk” to children and their families.
Collingwood President Jeff Browne confirmed the decision was made in consultation with the Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) and the City of Melbourne.
“The safety of our youngest fans is non-negotiable,” Browne said. “While the timing is far from ideal, we cannot in good conscience allow the playground to remain open until repairs and upgrades are made.”
Impact on Families and Fans
The closure is expected to be felt most keenly by families who regularly bring children to Collingwood home games. For many, the playground has been a vital outlet for restless young supporters, offering a break from the intensity of AFL matches. Parents have expressed disappointment but also relief that the club is acting proactively.
Sarah Mitchell, a Collingwood supporter and mother of two, said the closure was inconvenient but necessary.
“My kids love the playground, it’s their favourite part of the game-day experience. But I’d rather they close it than risk an accident. Hopefully, they’ll use this as an opportunity to make it even better.”
A Temporary Setback with Long-Term Plans
Club officials have stressed that the closure is temporary. Preliminary discussions are already underway to redevelop the playground into a safer, modernized facility that will align with the MCG’s long-term infrastructure strategy.
According to MCC CEO Stuart Fox, the redevelopment could include shaded areas, interactive play equipment, and improved accessibility for children with disabilities.
“We want this space to reflect the spirit of inclusivity and community that the MCG stands for,” Fox said. “The closure is a short-term pain for what we hope will be a long-term gain for families.”
Broader Concerns About Stadium Infrastructure
The incident has sparked wider debate about the upkeep of family facilities within major sporting venues. With tens of thousands of fans flooding into the MCG each weekend during the AFL season, pressure on infrastructure is immense. Critics argue that upgrades to amenities like playgrounds, rest areas, and family zones often lag behind the more high-profile investments in seating, technology, and corporate boxes.
Sports safety consultant Dr. Liam Harris said the closure should be viewed as a wake-up call.
“When you have one of the world’s greatest stadiums, you need world-class facilities across the board—not just for athletes and VIPs, but for families and children as well. The MCG should seize this opportunity to set a benchmark.”
Looking Ahead
For now, families attending games at the MCG will need to make alternative plans to keep children entertained. Collingwood has promised to increase on-ground entertainment, with roving performers and family-friendly activities planned on the concourses. The club has also pledged to provide regular updates on the redevelopment timeline.
While the closure of the playground may be a blow in the short term, the move demonstrates a strong commitment to fan safety and family engagement. For Collingwood and the MCC, the challenge now lies in delivering a facility that not only meets safety standards but also enhances the game-day experience for the next generation of supporters.
As AFL finals season approaches, the temporary absence of the playground serves as a reminder that behind the spectacle of the game, the well-being of fans—especially the youngest—is always the priority.
