The Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) is excited to launch a brand-new member function, The Drop-In Dinner, on Thursday October 2, at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).
Join fellow members and distinguished guests as we celebrate the beginning of the 2025/26 Summer of Cricket and look forward to the 73rd Ashes Series and Boxing Day Test between Australia and England.
Hosted by renowned commentator Tim Lane, the evening will feature insights into the transformation of the arena with MCC Executive Manager of Turf Matthew Page and a unique live-viewing opportunity to watch the MCG Arenas team drop in the wickets.
Former Australian cricketer Brad Hodge will also speak, reflecting on his career in the game.
'The Pitch' - a brief history
The MCG has long been home to some of the most famous cricket pitches in the world. For more than 150 years, curators have worked to prepare wickets that have tested the greatest players of every era.The pitch has a storied history with some memorable characters. From the late 1910s to the early 1920s, ‘Dolly the Horse’ was employed to help roll the cricket pitch.
Alongside Dolly was the famous MCG curator, Albert Luttrell, who was the ground’s curator for over 25 years and was internationally recognised for his skill in creating pitches.
In the years following, advances in machinery would eventually replace manual and animal-powered methods, with motorised rollers taking over from Dolly and her successors.
In 1996, the ‘drop-in’ pitch was introduced, allowing the stadium to seamlessly switch between cricket and football, while maintaining world-class playing conditions. Today, the MCC Arenas Team continues this proud tradition, ensuring the MCG surface remains the stage for unforgettable sporting moments.
Bookings
Bookings are open and are being taken on a first-come, first-served basis. Spots are filling up fast, so be sure to book soon to avoid disappointment.For all function details, visit our bookings page or contact the Club at membership@mcc.org.au