So you’ve decided to join the Cats faithful—excellent choice. Whether you’re a first-timer heading to Kardinia Park or a seasoned footy fan who’s never quite figured out where the best seats are, this guide is for you. By the time you finish reading, you’ll know exactly how to navigate Geelong’s home ground, where to grab a pre-game pie, and what to do when the siren sounds. Let’s get you match-ready.

What You’ll Need Before You Go

Before we dive into the step-by-step, let’s make sure you’ve got the basics sorted. You don’t need to be an expert—just a little preparation goes a long way.

Your ticket (digital or printed—check the Geelong Cats website for details)
Comfortable shoes (you’ll be walking, standing, and maybe celebrating)
Weather-appropriate gear (Geelong weather is famously unpredictable—layers are your friend)
A phone with the official AFL app (live scores, team news, and ground maps)
Your membership card (if you’re a member—it gets you into members-only areas)
A sense of adventure (trust me, you’ll need it)

Got all that? Great. Let’s step inside.

Step 1: Arrive Early—And Know Where to Park or Catch Public Transport

GMHBA Stadium is smack in the middle of Geelong’s sporting precinct, and traffic can get heavy on game day. Here’s the smart play:

Parking: There’s limited parking around the stadium—mostly street parking in nearby suburbs like South Geelong or Newtown. If you’re driving, aim to arrive at least 90 minutes before the first bounce. Paid parking is available at the Geelong Showgrounds (a 10-minute walk) or the Deakin University Waterfront campus (a 15-minute walk). Avoid the stadium’s immediate car parks unless you’re a member with a reserved spot.
Public transport: The best option. V/Line trains from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station drop you at Geelong Station, then it’s a 20-minute walk or a quick bus (route 40 or 41) to the stadium. If you’re coming from within Geelong, bus routes 1, 2, 3, and 4 all stop near the ground. On game days, extra services run—check the Public Transport Victoria app.
Rideshare: Uber and Didi drop off at the designated rideshare zone on Moorabool Street, a five-minute walk from the main gate.

Pro tip: If you’re driving, park in the suburb of East Geelong (near the Eastern Park precinct) and walk. It’s free, safe, and you’ll avoid the post-game traffic jam.

Step 2: Enter Through the Right Gate

GMHBA Stadium has multiple gates, and entering through the wrong one means a long walk around the ground. Here’s the breakdown:

Gate 1 (north end): Best for members and those seated in the Reg Hickey Stand or the Brownlow Stand.
Gate 2 (south end): Ideal for general admission seats in the Ford Stand or the Players Stand.
Gate 3 (east side): Access to the Geelong Cats merchandise store and the family-friendly zone.
Gate 4 (west side): The main entrance for away supporters and the corporate suites.

Check your ticket before you go—it’ll tell you which gate to use. If you’re a member, your membership card has a designated gate printed on it.

Common mistake: Don’t try to enter through Gate 1 if you’re in general admission—you’ll be turned away and have to walk around the entire stadium. Save yourself the steps.

Step 3: Find Your Seat—Or Your Standing Spot

Once you’re inside, the stadium is surprisingly easy to navigate. Here’s a quick orientation:

Reg Hickey Stand (western side): The main grandstand. This is where the media, coaches, and premium seating are located. If you’re here, you’ve got a great view of the ground.
Brownlow Stand (eastern side): The newer stand, built as part of the Kardinia Park Redevelopment. It has excellent sightlines and is close to the food court.
Ford Stand (northern end): General admission seating. It’s a bit further from the action but offers a unique end-on view that’s great for watching forward play.
Players Stand (southern end): Also general admission, but closer to the player race. You might catch a glimpse of Chris Scott or Patrick Dangerfield warming up.
Standing areas: If you prefer to stand (and sing), head to the “Kardinia Kop” at the northern end of the ground. It’s the unofficial home of Geelong’s most vocal supporters.

Pro tip: If you’re in general admission, arrive early to snag a seat in the Brownlow Stand. It’s undercover, has good views, and is close to the best food options.

Step 4: Explore the Food and Drink Options

Game day isn’t just about footy—it’s about the whole experience. GMHBA Stadium has come a long way in the food department. Here’s what to look for:

The Cattery (inside the Brownlow Stand): The stadium’s main food court. Think gourmet pies, hot dogs, burgers, and chips. The “Cats Pie” (chicken, leek, and bacon) is a local favourite.
The Ford Stand Bar (northern end): Beer, wine, and cider options. Try the local Geelong brews—Little Creatures or the new Kardinia Park Pale Ale.
The Coffee Cart (near Gate 3): For a caffeine fix before the game. The barista knows their stuff.
The “Tomahawk” Burger (seasonal special): Named after Tom Hawkins, this burger is a monster—double patty, cheese, bacon, and a secret sauce. Only available during home games.

Common mistake: Don’t queue at the main food court during quarter-time breaks. The lines are insane. Instead, visit the smaller kiosks near the Players Stand or the Reg Hickey Stand—they’re much quieter and have the same food.

Step 5: Know the Key Landmarks and Facilities

GMHBA Stadium is more than just a footy oval. Here are the spots you’ll want to know:

The Geelong Cats Store (inside Gate 3): Official merchandise—jerseys, scarves, hats, and memorabilia. If you’re after a new guernsey or a Joel Selwood legacy cap, this is the place.
The Family Zone (eastern side, near the Brownlow Stand): A quiet area with activities for kids. Face painting, footy clinics, and a mini kicking oval. Perfect if you’ve got little ones.
The Player Race (southern end, next to the Players Stand): Watch the Cats run onto the ground before the game. It’s a tradition—arrive 30 minutes before the first bounce to see Chris Scott lead the team out.
The AFL Finals Series Banners (along the outer concourse): Photos and tributes to Geelong’s premiership-winning teams. Great for a pre-game selfie.
The “Selwood” Gate (Gate 2, renamed in honour of the former captain): A nod to Joel Selwood’s legacy. It’s a small detail, but it means a lot to long-time fans.

Pro tip: If you’re new to the AFL, head to the “Rules Explained” booth near the Family Zone. They have a simple guide to the game, and volunteers are happy to answer questions. It’s a great way to learn the basics before you watch the action.

Step 6: Watch the Game Like a Local

You’ve got your seat, your food, and your bearings. Now it’s time to enjoy the footy. Here’s how to do it like a Geelong insider:

Cheer for the Cats: When the team runs out, stand and clap. When they kick a goal, yell “GO CATS!” (or “TOMAHAWK!” if Tom Hawkins scores). When they win a free kick, applaud. When they lose one, boo the umpire (politely—it’s tradition).
Know the key players: Keep an eye on Patrick Dangerfield (midfield dynamo), Tom Hawkins (key forward), and the emerging young guns from the AFL Draft. If you see a player with a brown patch on his guernsey, that’s a draftee—cheer extra loud.
Understand the game flow: The AFL is fast. Don’t worry if you miss a bit—just enjoy the atmosphere. The big moments (goals, marks, tackles) are easy to spot. If you’re confused, ask the person next to you. Cats fans are friendly.
During quarter breaks: Stay in your seat or take a quick walk. The screens show highlights and interviews. If you need a bathroom break, go early—the queues build fast.

Common mistake: Don’t leave your seat during a close game. The biggest moments often happen in the last five minutes. If you need to go, wait for a goal or a boundary throw-in.

Step 7: Post-Game—What to Do After the Final Siren

The game’s over. Whether the Cats won or lost, here’s how to wrap up your visit:

Stick around for the song: If Geelong wins, the team sings the club song on the ground. Join in—it’s a moment of pure joy. If they lose, the players will still do a lap to thank the fans. Stay and applaud.
Exit through your gate: Follow the crowd to the nearest exit. If you parked in East Geelong, head south. If you’re catching public transport, walk to Moorabool Street for the bus or train.
Visit the Geelong Cats Store: It’s open for an hour after the game. Grab a souvenir to remember the day.
Grab a post-game bite: The food court stays open for 30 minutes after the siren. The pies are still hot, and the coffee is still good.
Share your experience: Tag #GeelongCats on social media. The club loves seeing new fans at the ground.

Pro tip: If you’re driving, wait 20 minutes before leaving your parking spot. The traffic clears quickly, and you’ll avoid the worst of the congestion. Alternatively, walk to a nearby pub—the Beav’s Bar on Moorabool Street is a Cats fan favourite.

Pro Tips / Common Mistakes

Do:

Arrive early to soak in the atmosphere and avoid queues.
Wear layers—Geelong weather can change from sun to rain in minutes.
Bring a small bag (max A4 size) to keep your hands free.
Use the official AFL app for live scores and ground maps.
Say hello to fellow fans—the Cats community is welcoming.

Don’t:

Don’t bring a large bag or backpack (security will turn you away).
Don’t try to enter through the wrong gate (check your ticket first).
Don’t leave during a close game (you’ll miss the best moments).
Don’t forget sunscreen (the sun can be brutal in the open stands).
Don’t be afraid to ask questions—everyone was a new fan once.

Checklist Summary

Buy your ticket or check your membership card
Plan your transport (parking, train, bus, or rideshare)
Arrive at least 60 minutes before the first bounce
Enter through the correct gate (check your ticket)
Find your seat or standing spot (use the ground map)
Explore the food and drink options (try the Cats Pie)
Visit the Geelong Cats Store for merchandise
Watch the player race (30 minutes before the game)
Cheer for the Cats (and learn the basics if you’re new)
Stay for the post-game song or player lap
Exit safely and share your experience online

Now you’re ready. GMHBA Stadium is more than just a ground—it’s the heart of Geelong footy. Whether you’re watching the Cats chase another AFL Premiership or catching a VFL game on a Saturday afternoon, you’ll feel the energy from the moment you walk through the gates. Enjoy the game, and go Cats!

For more on getting started, check out our Getting Started Guide, explore the Club Milestones Timeline, or learn the basics with our AFL Rules Glossary.

Inside GMHBA Stadium: A Grounds Guide for New Fans