Our city has transformed into a sea of blue and white in the lead up to the grand final tomorrow.
The Cats will be on the hunt for their 11th AFL/VFL premiership win – their second in four years – when they take on the Brisbane Lions at the MCG in what is sure to be a thrilling game.
This is the most exciting week on the football calendar, and we’re rolling out the Cats’ colours everywhere.
About 100,000 supporters will flock to the MCG to take in the spectacle of the game in person. But if you can’t make it, we’re bringing the atmosphere to you with displays, projections and a live site on the big day, so fans can experience the grand final buzz together.
City Hall has been illuminated with a blue and white ‘Go Cats!’ projection every night this week, while the catenary lights on Moorabool Street are also on theme. Cats banners are flying high across the city, extending our support for the team ahead of the main event.
Tomorrow, Eastern Beach Reserve will be roaring with the sound of fans when the game is broadcast on a big screen from noon. This live site will bring our sports-loving community together for a free, family-friendly, alcohol-free event.
Fans are encouraged to bring picnic rugs, chairs and food for a day of celebrations and camaraderie.
We will be working closely with Victoria Police to coordinate traffic management and public safety on grand final night, to help everyone get home safely after the game.
If Geelong Cats win, we will close some streets in central Geelong, and the taxi rank will move from Moorabool Street to Gheringhap Srteet between Little Malop and Malop Streets, near the Civic Centre Car Park.
The bus interchange will also move from Moorabool Street to Geelong Railway Station if the Cats get up. Information about buses will be available via the PTV website.
It’s vital that no matter the outcome tomorrow, everyone can enjoy the game – and hopefully the celebrations after – safely and peacefully.
Win, lose, or draw, Cats fanatics can head down to St Mary’s Oval at GMHBA Stadium, where the club is hosting a supporters’ day on Sunday.
A special player’s presentation will be held so we can all come together and cheer on our beloved team.
More than one-third of the Cats’ 92,000-strong membership is based here in Greater Geelong, so I speak for so many of us when I wait with bated breath for tomorrow’s centre bounce.
The Cats remain at the heart of our community and unite all corners of our region under one team and one banner.
The club has been a constant part of our city’s identity for well over a century and is synonymous with our region’s reputation for sporting excellence.
Regardless of whether you’re a seasoned supporter or you’re just jumping on the bandwagon for the big day, it’s sure to be a massive weekend for Geelong.
No matter the result, let’s show the rest of the country the passion and pride we have for ‘the greatest team of all’.
Go Cats!
