A Fan's Complete Guide to GMHBA Stadium: Getting There, Parking, Tickets and What to Expect

GMHBA Stadium, long known to locals as Kardinia Park, sits in South Geelong beside the Barwon River and is one of the most cherished venues in the AFL. The ground is famously compact and atmospheric, with a vocal home crowd that gives visiting teams a genuine test. If you are heading there for the first time, a little planning makes the experience much smoother and more enjoyable.

Getting to the stadium by public transport is the easiest option. South Geelong train station is a short walk from the main gates, and V/Line trains run from Melbourne's Southern Cross Station direct to South Geelong. Geelong's bus network also serves the area, and on busy match days additional services are typically put on to handle the crowd. If you do drive, street parking in the surrounding residential area fills early, so arriving well ahead of the first bounce gives you the best chance of finding a spot within reasonable walking distance.

Tickets are sold through the official Geelong Football Club website and the AFL's Ticketmaster portal. Members have priority seating and can enter through dedicated gates, while general admission and reserved seating options are available for most matches. Buying online in advance is strongly recommended for popular games, especially those against traditional rivals, as the ground can sell out. Concession and child tickets are available, making a family day out affordable.

Inside the venue you will find a range of food and beverage options spread around the ground, with local and popular food choices available in the concourses. Facilities include accessible seating and viewing areas, family zones, and clear signage throughout. The best views in the ground are generally found in the covered stands on the eastern and western sides, though the open ends offer a terrific vantage point and a lively social atmosphere.

First-timers should arrive at least 30 minutes before the bounce to soak in the warm-up and find their seats without the rush. The Cats' cheer squad adds noise and colour, and the pre-game entertainment is a great introduction to the match-day experience. Check the official stadium website before you go for any updates on gates, prohibited items and the latest ground information.

Sources: GMHBA Stadium Geelong Football Club V/Line