The MCG is proud to present a new look at one of the biggest days in Australian sport.
Featuring exclusive interviews with Zach Merrett and Darcy Moore, plus rarely seen footage from just after the first world war, MCG Originals uncovers the true beginning to the now iconic ANZAC Day clash between Collingwood and Essendon.
ANZAC Day football is one of the biggest days on the AFL calendar. An occasion that sees over 90,000 fans pack the stands for the traditional ANZAC Day clash between Collingwood and Essendon. Around the MCG an eerie silence falls over the crowd as the ANZAC Observance Ceremony is held, before the ‘G roars alive as the match begins.
Last year’s match fittingly saw the two teams tied at the end of play – the same result as the very first ANZAC Day clash between the teams 30 years ago this year.
But did you know this match in 1995 was not the first time ANZAC Day footy was played at the MCG? MCC Librarian Trevor Ruddell dives into the very first ANZAC Day match at the MCG in the video above.
Key timings: ANZAC Day at the MCG
12.00pm - MCC Gates open
2.24pm - Motorcade of Veterans
2.35pm - Pre-Match Entertainment (Pete Murray)
2.51pm - Umpires Enter Arena & Match Ball Delivery
2.53pm - Essendon Enters Arena
2.56pm - Collingwood Enters Arena
2.58pm - Joint Banner Run Through
3.06pm - ANZAC Day Official Observance Ceremony
3.17pm - Roulettes Flyover
3.18pm - Coin Toss
3.20pm - Match Start
A large crowd is expected for this match, so members are encouraged to arrive early and allow plenty of time for the entry process.
For additional match information, click here.
MCC Members’ Reserve ANZAC Day ticketing update
The ANZAC Day match between Collingwood and Essendon is a Category 1 match, meaning only 50-Year, Full and Restricted members can access the Members' Reserve. Provisional members cannot access the Reserve for this match.
Reserved seat and visitor tickets have sold out for this match. 50-Year, Full and Restricted members can still access unreserved seating and standing room in the Reserve by scanning their membership card at Gate 2 on match day, subject to capacity.