GMHBA Stadium

Over the years, the stadium has grown alongside the City of Greater Geelong, evolving into a vital venue for sports and entertainment. Its presence has not only enriched the local culture but also played a significant role as a strong economic driver for the region, drawing over 400,000 visitors each year. 

As the region and community have flourished, the need for GMHBA Stadium to keep pace with these developments has become clear. To ensure the stadium continues to meet the demands of an ever-growing population, significant renovations and expansions have been necessary. Populous, a trusted partner in this journey, has been involved in the redevelopment efforts for nearly two decades, working closely with Kardinia Park Stadium Trust to shape the future of the stadium. 

The transformation of GMHBA Stadium has been carried out in multiple stages, each building upon the last to create a modern, world-class facility.

Following on from the 2001 Master Plan, Populous were appointed in January 2008 to undertake Stage 2 of the Redevelopment of the Ross Drew Stand at GMHBA Stadium

The redevelopment includes a 5,000-seat Ross Drew Stand, player training and rehabilitation facilities, improved gymnasium access for local high-performance athletes, new and expanded corporate entertaining facilities, additional disabled spectator amenities, and expanded administration facilities for the Geelong Football Club. 

The southern stand, known as the Players’ Stand boosted the Stadium’s capacity to 33,500 with new public concourses and members’ facilities. 

With the support of the Victorian Government, the Brownlow and Jennings Stands on the western side were redeveloped, creating a more accessible front entrance for the majority of visitors. A world-first innovation, the Fan Portal, was also introduced, providing fans with an interactive and immersive experience during pre- and post-game activities. 

The most recent chapter in the Stadium’s evolution, Stage 5 has elevated the venue to new heights. The northern end of the Stadium boasts a new grandstand, the Joel Selwood Stand, increasing capacity to over 40,000.

This stage also introduced a dedicated indoor cricket centre, the Geelong Sports Museum, media centres, stadium offices and upgraded professional and community sports facilities. A significant highlight of Stage 5 is the creation of a new restaurant and feature bars, including the much-anticipated Chin Chin, offering an exciting in-stadium dining experience on both event and non-event days. The Stadium’s innovative bowl design and striking façade give it a modern, iconic look, while the iconic roof sweeps over to seamlessly connect it to the adjacent stands while making it a destination in its own right. Additionally, the new entry plaza at the north end, next to Moorabool Street, enhances crowd management and improves transport accessibility, ensuring smoother arrivals and departures for fans attending events. 

Sustainability and First Nations recognition also played a pivotal role in the design, further reflecting the community’s desire for a venue that benefits everyone.  The Stadium includes passive heating/cooling as well as solar panels and water recycling. Visitors also experience the history and culture of First Nations People through Djilang Plaza, which honours the Traditional Owners of the land on which the venue sits.  Wadawurrung artwork and “Ngarrwa Kalk” (knowledge sticks) light poles, designed by Wadawurrung woman Corrina Eccles, are displayed in the Plaza. 

With each stage of the redevelopment, GMHBA Stadium has strengthened its role as a major sports and entertainment hub. From hosting AFL games to international cricket and soccer matches, the venue is now not only a centrepiece for the Geelong community but also a prominent player on the national and international stage. The completion of Stage 5 has cemented GMHBA Stadium’s position as Australia’s best regional stadia, capable of attracting a diverse range of events, from elite sports to live music performances.