The City of Greater Geelong is prepared for Cats fans to flood the CBD, should the Cats get in the win in the 2025 AFL Grand Final.
Crowds are expected to flock to Eastern Beach reserve on Saturday for the council’s live site, with the broadcast starting at 12pm before first bounce at 2:30pm.
Traffic management will be in place on Ritchie Boulevard to stop entry when parking bays are full and ensure there is emergency access.
Attendees are reminded it is an alcohol free event, encouraged to bring along picnic rugs and chairs, though gazebos and other shade structures aren’t allowed.
If Geelong have the lead at three-quarter time, the local council will shut down the following roads:
- Moorabool Street between Ryrie Street and Brougham Street.
- Little Ryrie Street to Ryrie Street closed to north bound traffic.
- Yarra Street between Ryrie Street and Brougham Street.
- Malop Street between Yarra Street and Gheringhap Street.
- Little Malop Street from Yarra Street to Gheringhap Street.
- Union Street from Little Malop to Ryrie Street.
- Corio Street from Moorabool Street to Clare Street.
- Clare Street from Corio Street to Malop Street.
Access to the Westfield Carpack on Moorbaool Street would close, with traffic able to use Brougham Street or the left turn only exit on Yarra Street.
For those parked in Market Square, vehicles would be able to exit under traffic control into Lt Malop St.
The Safe Taxi Zone on Ryrie Street would be relocated on the west side of Gheringhap St, between Lt Malop St and Malop St.
The Moorabool St Bus interchange would close, with buses arrivin and departing from Geelong Train Station instead.
The City’s Executive Director of Placemaking Tennille Bradley said they’re excited to welcome thousands of fans to town.
“The fastest way to get into central Geelong will be via public transport, as the roads will be particularly busy, and it’s also the best way to soak in the atmosphere of the day. Fortunately, PTV is putting on extra VLine and bus services and the train station and Moorabool Street interchange are just a short walk to the Waterfront,” she said.
“If you need to drive, we recommend carpooling and remind drivers that while parking remains free on weekends, time limits do apply. We encourage drivers to park in all-day spaces on Brougham Street, Bellarine Street, Ritchie Boulevard, Eastern Beach Road, Hearn Parade Carpark and Eastern Garden precinct, or use the thousands of off-street and on-street parks across central Geelong, such as Busport and Civic Centre. Please note, exiting some of these locations may be delayed due to road closures if the Cats win.”
“We ask that community members be respectful of Victoria Police, traffic management and parking officers and follow their directions, as they try to ensure everyone has a safe time.”
