NPSP prepares to welcome thousands of footy fans for Gather Round as The Parade launches into party mode

Today Mayor Robert Bria welcomed Premier Malinauskas, AFL Executive General Manager Football Operations, Legal & Integrity Andrew Dillon, Fremantle AFL player James Aish and Norwood Football Club President Paul Di Iulio at Norwood Oval to mark the milestone.

Norwood Oval will host two matches as part of AFL Gather Round with Fremantle to face off against the Gold Coast Suns tomorrow in a twilight fixture, before the GWS Giants take on Hawthorn on Sunday afternoon.

Since the announcement of the Gather Round, the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters has invested in a number of venue upgrades to Norwood Oval, including two new 13-seater coaches boxes, new commentary box, new canteen and a major turf renovation.

These upgrades are in addition to the recent $11 million upgrade of Norwood Oval completed in 2020, and the installation of new lights and LED ribbon around the fence that was undertaken as part of a long-term strategy that will benefit football fans and the community all year round.

“The Council knew Norwood Oval already ticked a number of boxes regarding the standard of facilities that the AFL would require, having recently completed the multi-million redevelopment. In addition to the obvious benefits of having AFL football played at the Oval, we also see the significant cultural and economic benefits of Gather Round.” Mayor Bria said.

“Football is an integral part of our community, and having such a successful Club in Norwood with 145 years of history and its home ground right on The Parade, means there is an opportunity to promote the Club and the City of Norwood Payneham & St Peters at the same time.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the South Australian Government, the AFL, the Norwood Football Club, the businesses along The Parade and Council staff for coming together to ensure that this opportunity was possible.”

As part of the Friday match celebrations, Norwood Memorial Gardens will host local bands and artists to deliver a run family-friendly night out with the festivities to continue on Sunday, with more live music, food trucks, and pop ups including wine, gin and beer.

In a boost for fans, the State Government is providing free public transport for footy fans with their Gather Round game day ticket on Adelaide Metro bus, train and tram services to Norwood Oval. Dedicated bus shuttles to and from the AFL Hub at Elder Park, King William Road will also operate to the venue.

Road closures will take place along The Parade in both directions from Osmond Terrace to Sydenham Road from 1:00pm until 10:00pm on Friday April 14, and from 11:00am until 8:00pm on Sunday April 16. For more information, please visit www.AFL.com.au/gatherround or www.theparadenorwood.com

Media enquiries: Robert Bria – 0431 754 077