Beginning our Melbourne Mania adventure, we made our way to the renowned Marvel Stadium for a full day of exciting AFL focus. We went behind the scenes and grabbed a glimpse into the players change rooms, a preview of the coaches’ box and briefing rooms, as well as making our way through the umpires tunnel and media rooms. Then we watched an action packed live match with Essendon Football Club and Hawthorn Hawks going head to head in a sold out arena.
Braving the cold the next morning, we embarked on a one-hour, scenic breakfast cruise along the Yarra River that gave us a unique look of the city, and then over to AAMI Park for the afternoon to watch the NRL, with three-time premiership winners Melbourne Storm dominating the Newcastle Knights at their home ground.
A visit to one of Australia’s most iconic sporting stadiums, the Melbourne Cricket Ground was a highlight. It was here that we were given a private tour of the inner workings and exclusive areas of the celebrated structure such as the famous Long Room, coaching viewing rooms, players barracks and media section. We also visited the MCG museum to look at the rich sporting history, legendary moments and priceless memorabilia from a wide range of sporting codes. We also grabbed a quick bite at the comfortable Paddock Café with spectacular views overlooking the grounds.
After a big few days of taking in what Melbourne has to offer and having our sporting hunger satisfied, we headed back to our luxurious accommodation for an evening to wind down and to enjoy the final night together in Melbourne.