So you’re planning to make the pilgrimage to Geelong for an away game. Whether you’re a die-hard Cats supporter heading to the Cattery for a clash or a visiting fan looking to experience one of the AFL’s most iconic venues, you’ve come to the right place. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—from getting there to making the most of game day—so you can focus on what really matters: soaking up the atmosphere and cheering your heart out.

By the end of this checklist, you’ll have a foolproof plan for a smooth, enjoyable trip to Kardinia Park (aka GMHBA Stadium, but we’ll call it the Cattery because that’s what it feels like). Let’s dive in.

What You Need Before You Go

Before we get into the step-by-step, here’s a quick rundown of essentials:

A valid ticket (obviously—check the AFL website or your club’s allocation)
Transport arrangements (car, train, or bus—we’ll cover options)
Game-day gear (Cats scarf, jumper, or whatever your colors are)
Weather-appropriate clothing (Geelong weather is famously unpredictable)
Cash or card (for food, drinks, and merchandise)
A charged phone (for maps, tickets, and those post-win photos)

Got all that? Great. Now let’s get into the nitty-gritty.

Step 1: Plan Your Route to Geelong

Geelong is about 75 kilometers southwest of Melbourne, so your journey starts with choosing how to get here. Here are your best bets:

By Train: The V/Line train from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station to Geelong Station is the most popular option. It’s about an hour, runs regularly, and drops you a short walk (or a quick bus ride) from the Cattery. Pro tip: Book your return ticket in advance—post-game trains can get packed.

By Car: If you’re driving, the M1 (Princes Freeway) is the main drag. Allow 60–90 minutes from Melbourne, depending on traffic. Parking near Kardinia Park is limited, so consider using a park-and-ride or booking a spot in advance through apps like Parkhound. The stadium’s official parking is at the nearby Deakin University Waurn Ponds campus, with a shuttle bus to the ground.

By Bus: Some AFL clubs run supporter buses for away games. Check with your club’s membership team—they often organize coaches that drop you right at the gate.

By Air (if you’re coming from interstate): Avalon Airport (about 20 minutes from Geelong) is a solid alternative to Melbourne’s Tullamarine. Jetstar and other budget carriers fly there, and you can grab a taxi or rideshare to the Cattery.

Once you’re in Geelong, the Cattery is on Moorabool Street, right in the suburb of South Geelong. It’s well-signposted, and locals are famously friendly if you need directions.

Step 2: Choose Your Accommodation (If You’re Staying Overnight)

Not everyone does a day trip—especially if you’re coming from interstate or want to soak up the pre-game vibe. Here’s where to crash:

Budget-friendly: The Geelong YHA or backpackers near the city center. They’re basic but clean, and you’ll meet fellow fans.
Mid-range: Hotels like the Rydges Geelong or the Novotel Geelong are within walking distance of the Cattery. Book early—game weekends fill up fast.
Luxury: The Vue Grand in Queenscliff (about 30 minutes away) offers a fancy stay with ocean views, but you’ll need a car or taxi.
Airbnb/Short-term rental: Plenty of options in South Geelong and Newtown. Look for places with off-street parking.

Pro tip: If you’re staying overnight, consider booking a room with a late checkout—post-game celebrations can run late, and you don’t want to rush out.

Step 3: Get to Know the Cattery (Kardinia Park)

You’ve arrived at GMHBA Stadium—now what? Here’s a quick lay of the land:

Gates open about 90 minutes before the first bounce. Arrive early to avoid queues and grab a good spot.
Seating: The stadium has four main stands: the Brownlow Stand (north), the Hickey Stand (south), the Ford Stand (east), and the newly upgraded Players Stand (west). Away fans are typically allocated the Hickey Stand end, but check your ticket.
Food and drink: There are plenty of options—pies, hot dogs, chips, and beer. The “Cattery Café” inside the ground does a decent coffee. For a proper meal, hit up the nearby Pakington Street in Geelong West before the game.
Amenities: Toilets are plentiful, and there’s a merchandise shop near Gate 3. Bring your own water bottle (empty) and fill up at the free water stations.

The Kardinia Park Redevelopment has transformed the ground in recent years, adding more seats, better facilities, and a cracking atmosphere. You’ll notice the new roof over the Players Stand—it’s a game-changer for wet-weather games.

Step 4: Plan Your Game Day Experience

Game day is about more than just the match. Here’s how to make the most of it:

Pre-game ritual: Head to the “Cats Corner” near Gate 1, where fans gather for live music, face painting, and giveaways. It’s family-friendly and buzzing an hour before the game.
Watch the warm-up: Get to your seat early to see the Cats run through drills. You might spot Coach Scott giving last-minute instructions, or Dangerfield and Hawkins practicing their set shots.
Half-time entertainment: Stick around for the VFL team updates—the reserves often play curtain raisers, and you can catch future stars in action.
Post-game: If the Cats win, the party spills onto Moorabool Street. The “Cattery Hotel” (a pub across the road) is a favorite for a celebratory pint. If they lose, well, there’s always next week.

Pro tip: Download the AFL app for live scores, stats, and seat upgrades. You can also order food from your seat via the app at some grounds.

Step 5: Navigate the Crowds and Logistics

Away games can be chaotic, but a little planning goes a long way:

Arrive early: Aim to be at the ground 30–45 minutes before the first bounce. This gives you time to find your seat, hit the bathroom, and grab a snack without rush.
Know your exit plan: Post-game, the crowds flood out. If you’re driving, give it 15–20 minutes before heading to your car—the traffic jam clears faster than you think.
Use public transport: The train station is a 15-minute walk from the Cattery. Buses also run from the stadium to the city center. Check the V/Line website for post-game schedules.
Stay safe: Keep your valuables close, especially in crowded areas. Designate a meeting point with your group in case you get separated.

Step 6: Celebrate or Commiserate (The Right Way)

Win or lose, the Geelong experience is about community. Here’s how to handle both outcomes:

If the Cats win: High-fives all around. Head to the “Cattery Hotel” or the “Barwon Club Hotel” for a post-match debrief. You might even spot Selwood (the former captain) or Dangerfield having a quiet beer with family.
If they lose: Don’t despair. The Cats are a resilient bunch—remember, they’ve won multiple AFL Premierships and are always in the finals mix. Grab a consolation pie, chat with fellow fans, and look ahead to the next game.
Souvenir shopping: The Cats merchandise store near Gate 3 is open after the game. Grab a scarf, a beanie, or a replica jumper to remember the trip. Check out our merchandise must-haves guide for the best picks.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes

Don’t underestimate Geelong weather: It can go from sunny to freezing in 20 minutes. Bring layers, a rain jacket, and maybe a beanie—even in summer.
Don’t forget your membership card: If you’re a Cats member, your card often gets you discounts at the merch shop or priority entry. Same goes for AFL members—check your benefits.
Avoid parking on residential streets: The council is strict about game-day parking restrictions. You’ll get a fine faster than a Dangerfield goal.
Don’t skip the pre-game hype: The atmosphere around the Cattery is electric. Arriving just in time for the bounce means you miss the build-up—and the best part.
Book accommodation early: If you’re staying overnight, book weeks in advance for blockbuster games. The Cattery sells out fast for big matches.

Checklist Summary

Here’s your quick-reference checklist for a smooth away game at the Cattery:

Buy your ticket (AFL website or club allocation)
Choose your transport (train, car, or bus)
Book accommodation if staying overnight
Pack game-day gear (jumper, scarf, beanie)
Prepare for weather (layers, rain jacket)
Charge your phone (tickets, maps, photos)
Arrive early (30–45 minutes before bounce)
Explore the pre-game festivities (Cats Corner)
Know your seating (check ticket for stand/gate)
Plan your exit (public transport or parking)
Celebrate or commiserate responsibly
Visit the merch store (check our merchandise must-haves for ideas)
Share your experience with fellow fans

Traveling to Geelong for an away game is more than just a footy trip—it’s a chance to experience one of the AFL’s most passionate fan bases in a city that lives and breathes the Cats. Whether you’re watching Hawkins boot a bag of goals, seeing Dangerfield tear through the midfield, or just soaking in the atmosphere at the Cattery, you’re in for a treat.

If you’re new to the Cats, check out our getting started guide for the full lowdown on the club’s history, traditions, and what makes this team so special. And for a deeper dive into the moments that defined the club, don’t miss our club milestones timeline—from the first AFL Premiership to the latest draft picks.

Now go on—pack your bag, grab your ticket, and get ready for a game day you won’t forget. See you at the Cattery!

Traveling to Geelong: A Fan’s Guide to Away Games