MCG terror safety plan

Move to ban public parking for AFL Grand Final

PUBLIC parking is set to be banned at the MCG for this year’s AFL Grand Final as extra precautions are taken to prevent a terror attack.

The MCC has confirmed it is “highly likely” no vehicles will be allowed in Yarra Park for the premiership decider on September 30 due to “security, safety and logistics” concerns.

MCC venue and event services general manager Gerard Griffin told 3AW yesterday that it was “not a done deal, but it is highly likely”.

“It is a combination of security, safety and logistics. Naturally the security element will get the most focus. But the park is heavily used on Grand Final day,” Mr Griffin said on radio.

“Up to 13 paddocks are used for footy festival by the AFL and September Club. That brings a whole lot of logistics and people moving around those spaces.

“It is becoming a very challenging park to juggle and people and vehicles, whether it is forklifts or cars, it is becoming a very challenging subject.”

Mr Griffin said Victoria Police and the MCC were very “cognisant” of the vehicles and the people being very close together.

The move is likely to end the “boot barbecue’’ tradition of fans turning up early to enjoy a snag with friends before the game.

But the public barbecues would still be operational.

He said about 300 cars pulled into the grounds last year but it was a “big public transport day”.

Only disabled fans and emergency vehicles will be allowed in the park outside the ground.

There are no immediate plans to bring back the “ring of steel’’ perimeter around the venue. Mr Griffin said wanding and bag checks would continue on Grand Final day.

The final decision will be made in the next week.