Mars Stadium, the second home for the Western Bulldogs, is the largest outdoor venue in Ballarat, with a capacity of 11,000 (soon to be 10,000 seated). Located in Wendouree, it’s easily accessible from Melbourne via the A300 highway. Parking is limited on event days, but spots are available on Norman Street, Creswick Road, and C.E. Brown Reserve. For added convenience, a free shuttle bus runs from Midlands Golf Club. Public transport is also an option, with a bus from Ballarat Railway Station taking you directly to the stadium.
Mars Stadium Information
Capacity: 11,000 total, 6,000 seats(10,000 when redevelopment finishes)
Address: 725 Creswick Road, Ballarat, VIC 3350
Ground Dimensions: 159m x 129m
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, and toilet
Tickets: Ticketmaster
Key Features of Mars Stadium
- Seating and Capacity:
- The stadium accommodates up to 11,000 spectators, with a mix of seating and standing areas.
- Includes grandstands, corporate facilities, and family-friendly zones.
- Primary Uses:
- AFL: Hosts regular-season games for the Western Bulldogs, bringing elite football to the regional community.
- Local Sports: Serves as a venue for local AFL matches, soccer games, and other sporting competitions.
- Events: Occasionally used for concerts, festivals, and community gatherings.
- Facilities:
- Equipped with modern lighting and a high-quality playing surface.
- Offers accessible seating, food outlets, and amenities for a comfortable fan experience.
- Regional Significance:
- Mars Stadium plays a vital role in bringing major sports events to Ballarat and boosting local tourism and economy.
Getting to Mars Stadium
If you are heading to Mars Stadium from Melbourne the best approach is to follow the National Highway and take the third Ballarat exit (A300).
Parking
There is limited parking on event days due to the influx of patrons visiting the oval, however there is car parking available on Norman Street, and also along the east side of Creswick Road.
Drivers are urged to use the hundreds of parking spaces that are available at the C.E Brown Reserve and its surrounding ovals that can be accessed from Dowling Street, these parking spaces will give you access to gates 1, 2, & 3 and there is also parking available at the North Ballarat Sport Club found on Creswick Road.
Free Parking Shuttle Bus
Additionally you can also park at Midlands Golf Club in Heinz Lane which has a free shuttle bus to and from Mars Stadium on event days.
Public Transport
There is a train station in Ballarat that gives patrons the opportunity to use public transport to the oval rather than opting to drive, however it can be a little bit off a hassle if you are not familiar with the area.
Once you have arrived at Ballarat Railway Station you will need to take the Creswick Bus to Mars Stadium, the bus stop to exit from is directly adjacent to the Stadium.
Taxis
If you do not wish to catch public transport and are unable to drive, there are taxis available on Creswick Road that can take you back home.
Event Day Restrictions
On event days the road between Howitt Street and Norman Street will not be accessible to patron, while Creswick road will remain open to traffic they shut the section off from patrons to avoid congestion.
Nearby Attractions
Close to Ballarat’s historic sites, such as Sovereign Hill and the Ballarat Botanical Gardens, allowing visitors to combine sports with sightseeing.
Interesting Facts:
- The Western Bulldogs play select AFL matches at Mars Stadium, giving regional fans a chance to experience elite football.
- The stadium underwent significant upgrades in 2017, including the addition of a grandstand and improved spectator facilities.
- It is a key part of the Ballarat Major Events Precinct, which also includes netball courts and other sporting facilities.
