$25 million investment in MCG audio upgrades designed to enhance fan experience

October 31, 2019

Fans attending the Twenty20 International between Australia and Sri Lanka at the MCG as of tomorrow will see a range of new speakers dotted across the roofline of the famous venue.

Aiming to create a more high impact and immersive audio experience for fans, the Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) has invested $25 million in an upgrade of the public announcement system at the famous stadium.

Working with Auditoria on design and Rutledge AV, A Diversified Company, as head contractor, more than 3000 speakers are being positioned throughout the seating bowl, function rooms and concourse areas to create a tailor-made MCG sound system.

The works, which will be completed ahead of the traditional Boxing Day Test on 26th December, will improve the experience all MCG patrons have when visiting the venue.

Advising that the Club was always striving to ensure the MCG maintains its status as a leading stadium, not just in Australia but on the world stage, MCC Chief Executive Stuart

Fox stated "providing clear, consistent audio throughout a venue this size is a significant challenge - and that's before you add 100,000 screaming sports fans into the mix.

"We are looking forward to switching to the new PA system from Boxing Day, and are confident all visitors to the stadium will notice and enjoy the improved sounds of the 'G."

Rutledge AV Chief Executive Andrew Morrice added "we are thrilled to be bringing the best and latest audio technology and infrastructure to the most iconic sporting stadium in the country."

Designed with fan experience at the forefront, Auditoria Director Scott Willsallen said he was excited to see how the new system will enhance the many and varied events held at the MCG.

Willsallen concluded "Australia is a world leader in sports presentation and this upgrade will place the 'G as one of the best stadium audio systems in the world, creating an immersive and memorable game-day experience in every seat.”The PA system upgrade is part of a wider $50 million series of capital works projects being undertaken at the MCG in 2019/20.

Earlier this year, telecommunications companies Telstra and Ericsson teamed up to deliver 5G coverage at the MCG for the AFL Grand final match.

At the time, Fox said the initiative made the MCG the first stadium in Australia to provide patrons with access to the 5G network.

Images courtesy of the MCC.

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