Docklands was largely deserted back then,” he explains. “The idea was to integrate a stadium into the area’s urban renewal project, drawing people through events—concerts, sports, and even business functions. It was about creating a centerpiece that would attract visitors to an underutilized part of the city.” Opened in 2000, Marvel Stadium has revived the Docklands and established itself as one of the world’s most versatile venues. From Australian Football League (AFL) matches to international concerts, business conferences, and cultural festivals, the stadium has become a dynamic center of activity that reflects Melbourne’s vibrancy. BUILDING MELBOURNE’S URBAN IDENTITY Marvel Stadium’s construction in the late 1990s was a bold step toward reshaping Melbourne’s urban landscape. At the time, the AFL’s Waverly Park venue was aging, and the Docklands, situated just west of the central business district, was underdeveloped. The decision to create a state-of-the-art stadium was as much about community development as it was about modernizing infrastructure. “The decision to build Marvel Stadium wasn’t just about creating a sports venue—it was about shaping the identity of a growing city,” Fitzgerald explains.“It was designed to be a place that combined sports, entertainment, and business, creating a district that would draw people from all over.” HOSTING THE WORLD “What sets Marvel Stadium apart is its ability to host such a diverse range of events,” says Fitzgerald.“From AFL matches to global acts like Coldplay and Pink, and even religious ceremonies like Diwali, there’s no other venue quite like it.” The stadium’s adaptability is largely due to its unique design. Fitzgerald highlights its adjustable seating arrangements, which allow the venue to shift configurations to suit different events.“We can adjust the seating bowl to create a more intimate environment for smaller sports like rugby, soccer, or concerts while maintaining a grander scale for AFL matches and other large events,” he explains. This flexibility ensures that every event feels tailored and immersive for attendees. Reflecting this versatility, Marvel Stadium is expected to host 70 arena events and 450 business gatherings in 2024 alone, drawing over 2.5 million attendees. DRIVING TOURISM “Big international acts are now primarily stopping in Melbourne, Sydney, and sometimes Brisbane,” 41 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 06, ISSUE 12 MARVEL STADIUM
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