STADIUM - Autumn Edition by ANZ Stadium

AUTUMN 2016

DOUBLE YOUR ORIGIN 44 PAGES OF NEWS & EVENTS

STADIUM NEWS LIGHT RAIL A LINK TO THE FUTURE SYDNEY’S Olympic stadium made a stunning debut as the home of the 2000 Sydney Olympics . . . and now the future is also paved in gold. A series of major announcements by the NSW Government and major stakeholders has guaranteed the continued growth and future prosperity of Sydney Olympic Park – the city’s major events precinct. The announcement of a Light Rail route through the Olympic Corridor and past ANZ Stadium – linking the burgeoning city of Parramatta with Sydney Olympic Park and Strathfield – is a boon for sports and entertainment fans. It also promises to drive monumental economic and residential growth in Greater Sydney. It comes hot on the heels of the NSW Government’s commitment to the redevelopment of the city’s Olympic stadium, plus other major decisions. The value of Sydney’s major events stadium was highlighted once again when English Premier League giants Arsenal confirmed matches against Sydney FC and Western Sydney Wanderers in 2017. Coming up a whole lot sooner is a jampacked 2016 events calendar. After 52 events and 1.65 million fans last year, the blockbusters are rolling again at ANZ Stadium in 2016. Enjoy! –AS

STADIUM Editor-In-Chief Arthur Stanley Art Director Chloe Xuereb Layout & Design Tracey Horne Managing Editor Jennifer Dowd Digital Editor Daniel Farrar Features Editor Crystelle Cordero Sports Writer Julian Keith Special Guest Writers Dean Richie, Greg Growden Marketing Tiffany Rowe Membership Jennifer Dowd Corporate Hospitality Shane Stoddard Advertising Chris Silver

ANZ Stadium Managing Director Daryl Kerry Chief Operating Officer Steve Heytman Event & Business Development Greg Sleigh ANZ Stadium Contact Details T: 02 8765 2000 W: anzstadium.com.au Postal Address: Locked Bag 1999, Sydney Olympic Park, NSW, 2127

Cover photo: NSW Blues stars Aaron Woods and David Klemmer Photographer: Gregg Porteous/The Daily Telegraph

2016 YEAR O

BLEDISLOE CUP

Arthur Stanley

WO State of Origin rugby league blockbusters, a US College Football extravaganza, Bledisloe Cup Test match rugby, an Easter Footy Fest and the NRL Grand Final . . . one of Sydney’s great sporting years is underway at ANZ Stadium. The 2016 ANZ Stadium Event Calendar rolls out a phenomenal line-up of major events across four footy codes following confirmation that the opening regular-season game of the 2016 NCAA College Football Championship will be played at Sydney Olympic Park on Saturday 27 August (see pages 18-21). US College Football is a jewel in the crown of the 2016 ANZ Stadium Event Calendar, which has a distinctly international flavour. The sporting year kicked off in sensational

style with the visit by a Liverpool FC Legends squad featuring the famous club’s greatest players, Steven Gerrard, Robbie Fowler, Jamie Carragher and Ian Rush, in a who’s who of Reds champions against an Australian Legends team. Just four months after that unforgettable 2015 NRL Grand Final, rugby league returned to ANZ Stadium with the annual Charity Shield clash between the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the St George Illawarra Dragons on Saturday 13 February. It was the start of a mighty year for Rugby League in Greater Sydney – the highlight of course being the twin State of Origin blockbusters, with Laurie Daley’s NSW Blues at their spiritual home of ANZ Stadium against the might of Queensland on Wednesday 1 June, before a potential series decider on Wednesday 13 July.

2016 ANZ STADIUM EVENT CALENDAR:

OF BLOCKBUSTERS THE BIG HITS DOUBLE YOUR ORIGIN ACTION IN 2016 AS NSW PLAY QUEENSLAND IN ORIGIN I AND ORIGIN III AT ANZ STADIUM MAJOR EVENTS ACROSS FOUR FOOTY CODES SETS UP HUGE YEAR OF SPORT FOR ANZ STADIUM MEMBERS, CORPORATE GUESTS AND GENERAL SPORTS FANS OPENING GAME OF US COLLEGE FOOTBALL SEASON SET DOWN FOR SATURDAY 27 AUGUST

STATE OF ORIGIN

LIVERPOOL LEGENDS V AUSTRALIAN LEGENDS KICKED OFF THE YEAR Dotted around the Origin blockbusters will be 26 regular-season NRL games featuring five famous Sydney clubs that call ANZ Stadium home – with the CanterburyBankstown Bulldogs (9), South Sydney Rabbitohs (9), Wests Tigers (4), Parramatta Eels (2) and St George Illawarra (2) all locked in for crucial Sydney v Sydney clashes. March promises to be a super month of sporting action at ANZ Stadium with an #EasterFootyFest, starting with Rabbitohs v Bulldogs on Good Friday. The highlight of the 2016 rugby union season in Sydney will be the Bledisloe Cup clash between the Australian Wallabies and the New Zealand All Blacks on Saturday 20 August – the first time the Wallabies will line up against the All Blacks since the Rugby World Cup Final at Twickenham on 1 November. Greg Sleigh, ANZ Stadium’s General Manager of Events and Business Development, said: “With a double serving of State of Origin action, the opening round match of the US College football season, NRL and AFL regular-season blockbusters, the NRL Grand Final and Bledisloe Cup Test match rugby, there’s a smorgasbord of footy action across four codes at ANZ Stadium in 2016. There may also be more to come, so stay tuned.”

PAGES 22 - 23

LIVERPOOL LEGENDS

COLLEGE FOOTBALL 5

STADIUM OF THE FUTURE

SPECIAL REPORT

SIX PROJECTS TO TRANSFORM YOUR STADIUM EXPERIENCE Arthur Stanley

HE rebirth of Sydney’s Olympic stadium and the Sydney Olympic Park precinct is underway with a series of major projects confirmed by the NSW and Federal Governments. Sports and entertainment fans travelling to future events at ANZ Stadium will be the big winners following two recent NSW Government announcements that promise to transform the transport experience to and from Sydney Olympic Park. In December, Premier Mike Baird unveiled the first stage of a new Light Rail Network for Greater Western Sydney – the core of which is a route through the Olympic Corridor, connecting the fast-growing city of Parramatta with Sydney Olympic Park and Strathfield. The Baird Government has also announced that a new westbound off-ramp from the M4 will be built at Hill Road as part of the WestConnex motorway project – an initiative that will dramatically improve road access to and from the major car parking stations in Sydney Olympic Park. The two major transport initiatives are the latest in a series of infrastructure announcements that will take Sydney’s Olympic precinct into a bold new era. There are now six infrastructure projects that will supercharge the Olympic Corridor and forever change the Sydney Olympic stadium experience. The six big projects are summarised here in this Special Report in STADIUM magazine. They include, of course, the NSW Government’s funding commitment for the redevelopment of ANZ Stadium as part of a major investment in Sydney stadiums.

The Greater Western Sydney Light Rail Network and the WestConnex motorway project are a coup for sports fans who will soon be able to get to ANZ Stadium much faster and with far greater ease. Work has commenced on the $3.8 billion Stage 1 of WestConnex, which will slash travelling times between the CBD and Sydney Olympic Park, enabling motorists to travel to ANZ Stadium on one continuous motorway. The new light rail connection will be capable of moving 5000 passengers per hour in both directions through the Olympic Corridor – the equivalent to 40 light rail services in place of 200 buses. Daryl Kerry, Managing Director of ANZ Stadium and President of Sydney Olympic Park Business Association, congratulated the Baird Government on its forward planning for Greater Sydney. “The Light Rail connection – combined with the WestConnex motorway and recently announced westbound offramp from the M4 – will transform the travelling experience and is fantastic news for the 1.6 million fans who attend events at ANZ Stadium each year,” he said. “A light rail trip from Parramatta to Sydney Olympic Park is expected to be twice as fast as existing public transport, while motorists driving by road from the CBD to Sydney Olympic Park will avoid 30 sets of traffic lights and be there in half the time once Phase 1 of WestConnex is completed. “These huge infrastructure announcements will also be transformational for businesses in Sydney Olympic Park and the fast-developing communities along the Olympic Corridor.”

PROJECT 2

NEW OLYMPIC PARK RAMP LINKS TO A WIDER M4 THE NSW Government has announced that an additional westbound offramp from the M4 will be built at Hill Road as part of the WestConnex Motorway Project – an initiative that will dramatically improve road access to and from the major car parking stations in Sydney Olympic Park. Work has already commenced on the $3.8 billion Stage 1 of the WestConnex motorway project, which will slash travelling times between the CBD and Sydney Olympic Park, enabling motorists to travel to ANZ Stadium on one continuous motorway.

Special Report continues Pages 8-11

PROJECT 1

LIGHT RAIL CONNECTS OLYMPIC CORRIDOR

Artist’s impression of Light Rail in Sydney Olympic Park. Source: NSW Government

Work has commenced on the widening of the M4 motorway and (inset) the proposed westbound off-ramp to Sydney Olympic Park.

IN December, the NSW Government unveiled the first stage of a new Light Rail Network for Greater Western Sydney – the core of which is a route through the Olympic Corridor, connecting the fast-growing city of Parramatta with Sydney Olympic Park and Strathfield. The decision is great news for sports fans who will get to ANZ Stadium faster and easier. The Light Rail connection will be capable of moving 5000 passengers per hour in both directions through the Olympic Corridor – the equivalent to 40 light rail services in place of 200 buses.

STADIUM OF THE FUTURE

SPECIAL REPORT

ANZ STADIUM REDEVELOPMENT

PROJECT 3 IN September, the NSW Government committed to the redevelopment of ANZ Stadium – which will enable it to become a world-class rectangular stadium – as part of the biggest investment in sport and major event infrastructure in NSW since the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Plans include bringing fans much closer to the action, heightening the game-day atmosphere. The Government is also considering the option of a retractable roof to weather-proof events.

TWO DESIGN OPTIONS FOR STADIUM

GLOBAL construction and engineering company Laing O’Rourke and world-renowned architects BVN Donovan Hill have unveiled two overarching design options for Sydney’s Olympic stadium. Option 1 (above left) is a spectacular total redevelopment of ANZ Stadium into a permanent rectangular stadium, which would bring all seating across six levels significantly closer to the action and dramatically increase the angle of the seating. Option 2 (above right) is a cost-effective redevelopment strategy that would allow the Stadium to remain a multi-purpose venue. Moveable grandstands at the northern and southern ends of ANZ Stadium will bring fans to within 5m of the action, also increasing the rake (steepness) of the seating. A retractable roof is factored in to both options.

ENERGISED OLYMPIC PARK VILLAGE

PROJECT 4 THE Sydney Olympic Park Authority is reviewing its masterplan with a view to significantly increase commercial, retail and residential development in Sydney Olympic Park. This will include shops, cafes, bars, eateries and restaurants, which will reinvigorate the Sydney Olympic Park village centre and help create a lively Stadium precinct — supercharging the pre and post game-day atmosphere. By 2030, Sydney Olympic Park will have a daily population of 50,500 residents, workers and students, plus 25,000 visitors a day.

PROJECT 5

NEW URBAN PRECINCTS NEAR THE STADIUM Two of Sydney’s most exciting new communities are being developed near ANZ Stadium, bringing tens of thousands of residents, commerce, colour and energy to the Olympic Corridor. Carter St, just behind the western gates of ANZ Stadium, is still to be developed while Wentworth Point is well advanced in its development. The $60m Homebush Bay Bridge (pictured right) – connecting Wentworth Point and Rhodes – is expected to open in April and has been designed for pedestrians, cyclists and public transport.

STADIUM OF THE FUTURE

SPECIAL REPORT

$20 MILLION HOME FOR NSW BLUES Arthur Stanley

HE NSW Blues State of Origin squad is to have a new home base built at Sydney Olympic Park that will feature a $20 million Centre of Excellence and include a dedicated full-length training field and unprecedented access to their home ground ANZ Stadium. Minister for Sport Stuart Ayres has announced that Sydney Olympic Park will be the long-term home of the NSW Blues, with the NSWRL Centre of Excellence to be the most advanced high-performance sports centre in the Southern Hemisphere. NSWRL will move its administration offices from Moore Park to its new base in Greater Sydney, with the Centre of Excellence to also include a state-of-the-art gymnasium, hydrotherapy and rehabilitation rooms, and other specialised support facilities. The Blues’ dedicated training field will be established at Fig Grove on Dawn Fraser Avenue, directly behind the NSWRL Centre of Excellence and next to ANZ Stadium. The training field will be up and running by the end of 2016 with the Centre of Excellence in place by late 2017. Blues players will be able to access ANZ Stadium via the same tunnel that was used by Cathy Freeman and fellow athletes during the Sydney Olympics. The tunnel entrance will be close to the sidelines of the new NSWRL training field. “This will be a game-changer for Rugby League in NSW,” Mr Ayres said. “For over a century, NSW has been the spiritual home of rugby league. This complex at Sydney Olympic Park will provide a pathway for emerging talent from junior representative sides through to the NSW Blues State of Origin team.

“The NSW Government is committed to providing the highest quality facilities to ensure the longevity and future success of Rugby League in this State.” NSWRL Chairman Dr George Peponis said the new Centre of Excellence would place NSWRL at the forefront of sporting organisations in Australia. “It will be equal or better than any highperformance facility of any sport in the country,” Dr Peponis said. “Most importantly, it is the obvious home for NSWRL, just across from ANZ Stadium, the home of the NSW Blues.” NSWRL Chief Executive David Trodden said support from the NSW Government and Sydney Olympic Park Authority would set the game up for long-term success at all levels. “The benefits will extend to everyone in the NSW Rugby League family. “Our junior players, refs and women’s teams will all have use of the facility and, at times, the other specialist sports grounds in the Sydney Olympic Park precinct,” Mr Trodden added. NSW Blues State of Origin coach Laurie Daley said the state-of-the-art facilities at the NSWRL Centre of Excellence and the proximity to ANZ Stadium created a wonderful opportunity for rugby league. “We finally have a place that we can call home,” Daley said. “Having a world-class Centre of Excellence at Sydney Olympic Park will add to the home ground advantage at ANZ Stadium and will definitely improve our preparation. “It’s an exciting new era for the Blues.” Paul Gallen — Why ANZ Stadium is so important to the Blues: Pages 12-13

PROJECT 6

THE NSWRL CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE

IN November, the NSWRL – in conjunction with Government – announced plans to build a $20 million Centre of Excellence next to ANZ Stadium (in Fig Grove on Dawn Fraser Avenue), with the NSW Blues committing to Sydney Olympic Park as their long-term home. NSWRL will move its administration offices from Moore Park to its new base in Greater Sydney. Blues coach Laurie Daley and senior players Paul Gallen and Robbie Farah helped launch the Centre of Excellence plan, along with NSW Minister for Sport, Stuart Ayres, and NSWRL Chairman Dr George Peponis and Chief Executive Dave Trodden.

STADIUM STATE OF ORIGIN

SPIRITUAL HOME

BLUES FANS MAKE THE DIFFERENCE AT STADIUM– GALLEN DEAN RITCHIE THE DAILY TELEGRAPH

AUL Gallen has played at famous sporting stadiums around Images of Gallen and coach Laurie Daley embracing in tears will the world: London’s Wembley Stadium, Manchester United’s forever be etched in Origin folklore. Old Trafford, Elland Road in Leeds, the Melbourne Cricket Ground, And who could forget Hayne standing like a Messiah in the middle Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium and Auckland’s Eden Park, venue for so of the Blatchy’s Blues fan group at the famous northern end of many All Blacks triumphs. ANZ Stadium? But in Gallen’s eyes, nothing compares to the NSW Blues’ spiritual “That sight in 2014 . . . it’s something I will never forget,” Gallen said. home, ANZ Stadium, for State of Origin. “It worked out perfect, the way we headed up there towards Blatchy’s “It is the best stadium I have ever played at when it’s full,” Gallen Blues. We got to celebrate in front of them. It was enormous. said. “It is my favourite place to play when there is 80-odd thousand “It’s great to see how something started with just a few mates and fans getting behind you. It’s just unreal. now it’s actually owned by the NSWRL. They get right behind Blatchy’s “That is why it is a real goal of mine to make sure I am there for both Blues – and the fans give their all for the team. Origin games in 2016. I haven’t been able to play two games in Sydney “It is such a great feeling looking up into the stands and seeing them since 2008. In those other years, we have given one game away to — 10,000-plus fans in electric blue wigs and blue T-shirts screaming Melbourne and in 2013, we won the first game but Jarryd Hayne and I for you. had to pull out of the decider with injury. “Everyone wants to win a premiership but Origin has been right up “So I am really determined to make sure I am there for me. there for both games.” “Origin has really kept me going. We have NSW have two cracks at ANZ Stadium in had some pretty lean times at Cronulla in the IT IS THE BEST STADIUM I HAVE EVER PLAYED AT WHEN IT’S FULL. middle stages of my career – 2009, 2010 and 2016. The Blues have Origin I in Sydney on 1 IT IS MY FAVOURITE PLACE TO June and then Origin III – a potential series 2011 – so if I didn’t have rep football to strive PLAY WHEN THERE IS 80-ODD decider – on 13 July. Origin II in Brisbane will for, who knows, my career may have ended THOUSAND FANS GETTING BEHIND earlier, I’m not too sure. be contested on 22 June. NSW lost last year’s YOU. IT’S JUST UNREAL. series after the heroics of 2014. Two games at “The reasons I know I have to keep home however gives Gallen and all NSW fans performing is because I want to play for NSW. increased hope of success. It means a hell of a lot to me.” No doubt NSW will conjure enormous support at ANZ Stadium, but The Blues are still stinging from Origin III last year, and the players Gallen knows the fanatical hometown support will count for little if know the only way they can erase that horror moment is to reverse the Blues don’t show up. the result this year. “One hundred percent. We will have to work our backsides off, we “It was tough to take. We went into that game supremely confident know that . . . and we will,” Gallen said. in our preparation. “We all know what happened in that last game [a 52-6 loss in game Looking back, maybe we prepared too well,” Gallen said. “We were three last year] so we have to improve on that and right the wrongs. really physical with each other at training, we trained our backsides “At the end of the day, we have to win two games and, while there is off, maybe we weren’t fresh enough. Who knows? some advantage in having two games at home, Queensland have won a “It was embarrassing and we know we have to fix it.” couple of games in Sydney over the last couple of years.” Bring on 1 June at ANZ Stadium. Origin. There’s nothing like it. Gallen still recalls the famous and historic on-field scenes at ANZ *Dean Ritchie is a senior rugby league writer for The Daily Stadium after NSW secured the 2014 series. Telegraph in Sydney. He has covered 72 State of Origin games.

Holden State of Origin I Wednesday 1 June Holden State of Origin III Wednesday 13 July See Page 41 for Member booking and dining options.

Picture: Gregg Porteous/The Daily Telegraph

STADIUM STATE OF ORIGIN

STATE v PLATE

CRYSTELLE CORDERO

ORIGIN – it’s State versus State and Mate versus Mate. And if you’re dining at ANZ Stadium on Wednesday 1 June or 13 July, it’ll also be the night of State versus Plate. ANZ Stadium Exectutive Chef, JOHN DEANE, has created a menu full to the brim with the very best of what NSW and Queensland have to offer. Which dish will come out on top? You be the judge.

HETHER it’s the coriander and pepper crusted beef fillet from Bindaree NSW, or the mango and pineapple salad hailing from Mareeba Queensland, one thing is guaranteed: ANZ Stadium Members will be sampling the best and freshest ingredients available on Origin nights 2016, says Andreas Breitfuss, Head of Catering at ANZ Stadium. “Previously, what we used to do was simply go for region. So at the beginning of each year we’d say ‘OK, all our lamb is going to come from Monaro,’ and we’d then have that lamb from that region on the menu all year round – whether it was the best at that time or not. “What we do now is ask ‘Where is the best lamb in Australia at this point in time?’ And that will often change from one season to the next – and for our Members, one major event to the next. “We changed our process because we wanted the freshest and best produce for our Members. It’s more expensive to do it this way, but the results speak for themselves. The quality of the food has improved because now we’re serving the very best of everything in season.” So how did Chef dream up the menu for Origin 2016? “A lot of the ideas for our menus start with the question ‘What’s happening in the industry right now? And what are the future trends?’” says Breitfuss. “Chef will research the industry trends, provide a brief for his sous chefs, and ask them to come back to him with their ideas of what should be on the menu. He’ll then put his expertise on top of that. So it’s very much a collaborative process.” Members can expect some cracker dishes come Origin night. “They might like to start the night in Queensland with a rockmelon, goats cheese and jamon bruschetta, then return to NSW for a

chargrilled double quail breast, before heading back north for a mango and chilli upside down cake to finish the night. The choice will be theirs.” Another bonus for Members will be the exclusively matched wines. What we’re doing for Members in Arena restaurant is wine matching every single menu that is being produced in 2016,” says Breitfuss. “Previously, I would make up a beverage package for the year and that would remain the same for every menu across the whole season.” That’s no longer the case. “If Members book dining and wine pairing for Origin, the wines will then be different if they dine again for Swans or Bledisloe or Grand Final. Members could end up trying five different types of Rieslings, six different chardonnays and eight different pinot noirs over the season.” Six weeks out from Origin, Breitfuss, a qualified sommelier of 23 years, will sit down with the full Members menu and wine match every single dish. “And if I can’t find a wine from our current wine list that compliments the Queensland mango well enough, I’ll go and order in new wines for that specific event. It’s all about enhancing the customer experience.” Bookings for the Members' Restaurant, Brasserie and Arena are now open, so get your tastebuds in on the grudge match come Origin night. Go to Page 41 for booking details

ORIGIN OF YOUR BIG-GAME FARE • • • •

• •

Rockmelon bruschetta with goats cheese & jamon Green mango & pineapple salad with tofu wontons Miso sesame eggplant with crisp noodles & mirin mushrooms Mango & chilli upside down cake with coconut cream Chargrilled double quail breast, asparagus salad, fine herbs Coriander & pepper crusted beef fillet, grilled field mushroom, smashed potatoes & merlot jus Sumac crusted chicken with braised onion & crispy chickpeas Grilled veal escallops with prosciutto & sage

STADIUM NRL

SYDNEY v SYDNEY Julian Keith

HEY are the games that NRL fans circle on the calendar as soon as the draw is announced – the Sydney v Sydney derbies. Rabbitohs v Bulldogs. Rabbitohs v Roosters. Bulldogs v Eels. Bulldogs v Dragons. Tigers v Eels . . . just the prospect gets hearts racing. How will the 2016 NRL season pan out for your team? ANZ Stadium will play host to 26 NRL games in total during 2016 with the venue’s five home clubs all locked in for key Sydney v Sydney fixtures. The South Sydney Rabbitohs will play nine home games at ANZ Stadium – beginning with a Round 2 clash against the Newcastle Knights on Saturday 12 March (5.30pm kickoff) and then the Round 4 Good Friday blockbuster against the Bulldogs. The Rabbitohs open the season with a Round 1 clash against fierce rivals the Sydney Roosters at Moore Park, before contesting a Round 6 return clash against the Roosters at ANZ Stadium on Friday 8 April. The Bulldogs will also play nine home games at ANZ Stadium – with the return fixture against arch-rivals the Rabbitohs scheduled as a Final Round 26 showdown on the first weekend in September. The Bulldogs’ opening two games are on the road before they commence their home games at ANZ Stadium in Round 3 with a Friday night shootout against the Parramatta Eels on 18 March. Wests Tigers will again play four home games at ANZ Stadium, including the Easter Monday clash against the Eels but also featuring a Sunday afternoon Round 10 clash against the Bulldogs on 15 May and a Round 14 game against the Rabbitohs on Friday 10 June. St George Illawarra Dragons will play two home games at ANZ Stadium – the bumper Queen’s Birthday holiday June long weekend clash with the Bulldogs on Monday 13 June, and a Sunday afternoon clash with the Tigers in Round 20 on 24 July. The Parramatta Eels’ two home games are against the Bulldogs on Friday night in Round 9 on 29 April and against the Tigers in Round 21 on the weekend of 28 July to 1 August.

EASTER FOOTY FEST GOOD FRIDAY 25 MARCH RABBITOHS v BULLDOGS EASTER MONDAY 28 MARCH WESTS TIGERS v PARRAMATTA EELS

WO cracking NRL derbies will make it a festival of the boot at ANZ Stadium this Easter. The #EasterFootyFest starts with the NRL’s biggest grudge match — the South Sydney Rabbitohs hosting fellow long-term ANZ Stadium home club the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs on Good Friday. Just one point has separated these two fierce rivals on Good Friday the past two seasons, and the game invariably provides the NRL with one of its biggest regular-season crowds. The 2015 edition of this match-up produced the most explosive game of the NRL season, with the Rabbitohs winning a controversial contest that had long-term ramifications for the Bulldogs. The Rabbitohs won 18-17 in front of 40,523 fans after one of the most extraordinary finishes in rugby league history, with a controversial penalty against fired-up Canterbury skipper James Graham handing the Rabbitohs victory. Easter Monday will feature rugby league’s western Sydney derby — a game that has become a feature of the NRL calendar. The Wests Tigers and the Parramatta Eels drew more than 50,000 fans to ANZ Stadium in 2014 and only wet weather prevented a repeat last year. Where will you be this Easter?

SOCCEROOS BACK TO SCENE OF ASIAN CUP FOR GAME AGAINST GREECE AUSTRALIA’S Socceroos will play Euro 2004 champions Greece at ANZ Stadium on Saturday 4 June in an important lead-up game to the third round of FIFA World Cup qualifying. It will be the first time Ange Postecoglou’s squad has returned to Sydney’s Olympic stadium since their triumphant AFC Asian Cup victory – one of the great Sydney football events of all time. Confirmation of Australia v Greece at ANZ Stadium on 4 June (8pm kickoff) sets up a mighty week of sporting blockbusters at the Olympic stadium, with the football friendly to follow the opening game of the State of Origin rugby league series between NSW and Queensland on Wednesday 1 June. While the Socceroos will enjoy huge home nation support as

they prepare for the next stage of World Cup qualifying matches, there is sure to be plenty of sky blue and white in the stadium as Greece will have the backing of a large and passionate Greek Australian community. Recent estimates suggest there are 195,000 Greek Australians living in Sydney. Fans of the Galanolefki (Sky Blue & White) will have the option of sitting in the Greece Active Supporters’ Area at the southern end of ANZ Stadium. The Socceroos’ Active Supporters’ Area will be located, as per tradition at home games, in the northern stands. Sydney’s sporting #WeekOfBlockbusters at ANZ Stadium will coincide with Vivid Sydney, the annual festival of Light, Music & Ideas.

STADIUM COLLEGE FOOTBALL SYDNEY CUP

TOUCHDOWN SYD JULIAN KEITH

HEERLEADERS, marching bands, crazy fans, a giant pack of Golden Bears and an army of Hawaiian Warriors are on their way to Sydney . . . the College Football circus is coming to town. ANZ Stadium will play host to the opening game of the 2016 US College Football season between the University of California Golden Bears and the University of Hawaii Rainbow Warriors on Saturday 27 August. TEG and TLA Worldwide, in conjunction with Destination NSW – the premier tourism and major events agency of the NSW Government – have secured the event that will double as the Sydney College Football Cup. “With both colleges bringing their fans, cheerleaders and mascots

out from the US, Australians will not only have the opportunity to see two highly regarded teams compete for competition points, they will also witness what promises to be a truly unique sporting experience,” said TLA Worldwide chairman Bart Campbell. The blockbuster clash between the Cal Bears and the Rainbow Warriors will be televised to millions throughout North America and will showcase Sydney to the world via various digital and communications platforms. The two famous American colleges will contest the first-ever regular season game played in Sydney in an event that is set to bring the excitement and entertainment that is synonymous with College Football to Sydney Olympic Park. Cal Bears Head Coach Sonny Dykes believes the nature of the game will go hand-in-hand with Aussie sports fans. “What I know of Australians is that they’re passionate people and passionate about their sports. College football is all that and more,” said Dykes.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL BIG-GAME GUIDE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY v UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII SATURDAY 27 AUGUST 2016 ANZ STADIUM KICKOFF 2PM

HOW THEY LINE UP UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, BERKELEY ■■ ■■

Nickname: Golden Bears; Cal Bears (#GoBears)

■■

Five National Championships

■■ ■■

DNEY! Before the game even starts the Sydney Olympic Park precinct will come alive with a massive tailgate party that will see thousands of fans enjoying the famous tradition of good food and drink in the shadows of the Stadium. The atmosphere on the outside can only be matched by all that happens inside. More than 200 players, coaches and medical staff will cram onto the sidelines as they prepare to do battle on the hallowed ANZ Stadium turf. With the cheerleaders, marching bands and mascots spurring the two teams on, the Stadium will be immersed in an entirely foreign and captivating atmosphere that shows why College Football is one of the most unique and popular sporting experiences in America. But this time, when College Football comes to Sydney, it’ll be the Aussie fans that get to experience the energy and huge scale of American sport. College Football is on the way . . . it's touchdown Sydney.

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Team colours: Berkeley Blue and California Gold 14 Conference Titles

Head Coach: Sonny Dykes Mascot: Oski the Bear

UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII ■■ ■■

Nickname: Rainbow Warriors (#GoBows)

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Four Conference Titles

■■ ■■

Team Colours: Green, white and black Head Coach: Nick Rolovich Mascot: Vili the Warrior

STADIUM COLLEGE FOOTBALL SYDNEY CUP

FLASHBACK TO AUGUST 1999 Julian Keith

HE magic of College Football in Sydney will be a landmark day indeed – but it’s not the first time American Football has touched our shores. Back in 1999 the NFL’s Denver Broncos and San Diego Chargers made the trip Down Under to play a pre-season game. The fixture was part of a series of exhibition games held outside of the US as the NFL looked to branch out and promote American Football in new countries. Dubbed the American Bowl, the clash was the first professional game of American Football played in Australia and one of

‛73,811 fans came to witness the Sydney spectacle’ 20

the first events to christen the brand new Stadium Australia – built in preparation for the 2000 Olympic Games. Sydney was given the great honour of hosting the reigning Super Bowl Champions, the Broncos - who had just secured their second straight title and were stacked with superstars. One of those superstars was Runningback Terrell Davis who came fresh from completing one of the greatest individual seasons in NFL history. But Davis wasn’t the only headliner on show – at least not to the home crowd. Sydney-born Darren Bennett was in the middle of his nine-year spell as the San Diego Chargers Punter and brought a little Aussie flavour to what was a thoroughly American event. Cheerleaders, fireworks, big blow-up helmets and more were brought out to give Australians the full American Football experience. And experience it they did as 73,811 fascinated sports fans came out to witness the spectacle that was capped by a thrilling

AMERICAN BOWL AT: STADIUM AUSTRALIA, 7 AUGUST 1999 DENVER BRONCOS 20 SAN DIEGO CHARGERS 17 CROWD: 73,811

Broncos comeback. Down 17-0 at halftime, the Super Bowl champs scored 17 unanswered points to tie the game and with five seconds left, Jason Elam split the uprights with a field goal to seal the game. Magic endings and inspiring stories is what American Football does best . . . and guaranteed there’s more on the way when the code makes its long-awaited return to Sydney. It will be an event not to be missed.

LINGO N W O D LOW

WANT TO SOUND LIKE AN EXPERT COME GAME DAY? WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED! CHECK OUT THIS LIST OF AMERICAN FOOTBALL TERMS TO TAKE YOU FROM ROOKIE TO PRO IN NO TIME. RESIDENT EXPERT JULIAN KEITH BREAKS IT DOWN.

■■DOWN: The exciting period of play where the ball is on the move! The offence gets four downs to advance the ball 10-yards at which point they receive a new set of “downs”.

■■SNAP: Action! The beginning of a down when the ball is thrown quickly between the legs or, “snapped”, to the quarterback, kicker or punter.

■■END ZONE: This is where you want to be! A 10-yard deep area at each end of the field – if the ball is in here then typically someone is scoring points. ■■TOUCHDOWN: When a player in possession of the ball catches, jukes or dives his way over the end zone – worth six points. When this happens get up and cheer! ■■PAT (POINT AFTER TOUCHDOWN): One point for kicking the ball through the goal posts or, if the coach is feeling particularly bold, two points if the ball is run or thrown into the end zone again.

■■FIELD GOAL: If a team’s offence falls short of a Touchdown never fear, there’s still hope for points! If the kicker slots the ball through the goal posts on a Field Goal attempt that’s three precious points on the board. ■■RED ZONE: The area between the defence’s 20-yard line and their end zone. This is the business end of the field, if the ball is here then points are likely on the way. ■■FLEA FLICKER: When the quarterback hands the ball to a runner, who then stops and throws it back to the quarterback who then launches it downfield for a big play. ■■LINE OF SCRIMMAGE: The imaginary line where the ball is placed before each play.

■■BIG UGLIES: The man-mountains that faceoff on either side of the line of scrimmage.

■■BLITZ: Ultimate aggression! This is when the defence sells out to try and stop an offensive play by sending majority of their players to attack the line of scrimmage area.

■■FLAG: The referees carry yellow flags to signify when a penalty has occurred. If you see these flying through the air then someone has been a naughty boy!

■■SMASHMOUTH: No not the band! It’s the type of American Football we’ve all come to see – physical, aggressive and sometimes brutal play.

■■TURNOVER: When the offence loses possession of the ball, by dropping (fumble) or throwing an interception, and it’s recovered by the opposition. When this happens, someone is getting a stern word or two from the head coach!

■■HAIL MARY: On a whim and prayer! It all comes down to this, if the offence desperately needs a touchdown to win or tie the game but they’re too far away from the end zone the quarterback will throw the ball as far as he can and pray someone catches it for a touchdown.

2016 ANZ STADIUM JANUARY

FEBRUARY

Thursday 7: Liverpool FC Legends v Australian Legends

Saturday 13: Charity Shield Rabbitohs v Dragons

Saturday 9: A-League Sydney FC v Newcastle Jets

JUNE #WEEKOFBLOCKBUSTERS WEDNESDAY 1: STATE OF ORIGIN I NSW BLUES V QLD MAROONS SATURDAY 4: SOCCEROOS V GREECE Monday 6: NRL Premiership Round 13 - Bulldogs v Sharks Friday 10: NRL Premiership Round 14 - Wests Tigers v Rabbitohs Monday 13: NRL Premiership Round 14 - Dragons v Bulldogs Friday 17: NRL Premiership Round 15 - Rabbitohs v Eels Saturday 25: NRL Premiership Round 16 - Bulldogs v Broncos

JULY Saturday 2: NRL Premiership Round 17 - Wests Tigers v Panthers Saturday 9: NRL Premiership Round 18 - Bulldogs v Wests Tigers

WEDNESDAY 13: STATE OF ORIGIN III NSW BLUES V QLD MAROONS Saturday 16: NRL Premiership Round 19 - Rabbitohs v Broncos Sunday 24: NRL Premiership Round 20 - Dragons v Wests Tigers 28 - 1 Aug: NRL Premiership Round 21 - Eels v Wests Tigers 28 - 1 Aug: NRL Premiership Round 21 - Rabbitohs v Raiders 28 - 1 Aug: NRL Premiership Round 21 - Bulldogs v Dragons

AS AN ANZ STADIUM MEMBER, YOU GET ACCESS TO EVERY SINGLE GAME AT ANZ STADIUM PLUS BBL CHAMPIONS SYDNEY THUNDER^, SYDNEY SWANS^ & NSW WARATAHS^ GAMES* 22

OCTOBER SUNDAY 2: NRL TELSTRA PREMIERSHIP GRAND

FINAL

Please Note: Events and dates are subject to change. *Terms and Conditions apply. ^Events are held at other venues.

M EVENT CALENDAR MARCH Saturday 12: NRL Premiership Round 2 - Rabbitohs v Knights Friday 18: NRL Premiership Round 3 - Bulldogs v Eels Friday 25: NRL Premiership Round 4 - Rabbitohs v Bulldogs Monday 28: NRL Premiership Round 4 - Wests Tigers v Eels

MAY

APRIL

Sunday 15: NRL Premiership Round 10 Wests Tigers v Bulldogs

Friday 8: NRL Premiership Round 6 - Rabbitohs v Roosters

Thursday 19: NRL Premiership Round 11 - Rabbitohs v Dragons

Saturday 23: NRL Premiership Round 8 - Bulldogs v Titans

Sunday 22: NRL Premiership Round 11 Bulldogs v Roosters

Thursday 28: NRL Premiership Round 9 - Rabbitohs v Wests Tigers Friday 29: NRL Premiership Round 9 - Eels v Bulldogs

AUGUST 11 - 15: NRL Premiership Round 23 - Bulldogs v Sea Eagles 18 - 22: NRL Premiership Round 24 - Rabbitohs v Sharks

SEPTEMBER 1 - 4: NRL Premiership Round 26 Bulldogs v Rabbitohs 9 - 11: AFL Finals Series - Week 1 (subject to team qualification) 9 - 11: NRL Finals Series - Week 1 (subject

SATURDAY 20: BLEDISLOE CUP QANTAS WALLABIES V NEW ZEALAND SATURDAY 27: COLLEGE FOOTBALL SYDNEY CUP

to team qualification) 16 - 17: AFL Finals Series - Week 2 (subject to team qualification) 16 - 17: NRL Finals Series - Week 2 (subject to team qualification) 23 - 24: AFL Finals Series - Week 3 (subject to team qualification) 23 - 24: NRL Finals Series - Week 3 (subject to team qualification)

STADIUM FOOTBALL

ARSENAL FC SYDNEY 2017

Arthur Stanley

NGLISH Premier League giants Arsenal will play back-to-back blockbusters against Sydney FC and Western Sydney Wanderers at ANZ Stadium as part of a strategic partnership with the NSW Government. Arsenal Football Club and the NSW Government have announced a multi-year Tourism-Football Partnership, which will culminate in Arsenal playing the two matches at ANZ Stadium in July 2017. The unique partnership will give the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW, the opportunity to promote and market NSW travel and tourism to Arsenal’s global followers before Arsenal embark on a Sydney tour in 2017. Arsenal will become the fifth European superclub to play at ANZ Stadium since 2013, following Sydney visits by Manchester United (2013), Juventus (2014), and Tottenham Hotspur and EPL Champions Chelsea in 2015. Sydney’s two powerful A-League clubs, Sydney FC and Western Sydney Wanderers, have agreed to take on Arsenal in back-to-back matches in July 2017 with more than 150,000 fans expected to flow through the gates to see the blockbusters.

ANZ STADIUM MEMBERS WILL GET A PRIORITY BOOKING WINDOW THIS YEAR FOR BOTH GAMES AND ARE GUARANTEED A PREMIUM SEAT AT BOTH EVENTS. PUBLIC TICKETS FOR THE TWO GAMES WILL GO ON SALE IN AUGUST THIS YEAR.

The Gunners’ legendary manager, Arsene Wenger, is eager to bring his squad of superstars to Sydney. “On behalf of everyone at Arsenal I am delighted to welcome Destination NSW and Sydney as our official tourism partner for the next two seasons. This unique partnership will come to an exciting conclusion when we play two matches in Sydney in July 2017. “It’s 40 years since Arsenal last visited Australia, so we’re delighted to partner with and play in one of the world’s great cities where we have a very strong and loyal Arsenal following.” Arsenal are one of England’s most successful clubs with 13 First Division titles to their name and a record 12 FA Cups – which includes

back-to-back wins in the 2013/14 and 2014/15 seasons. At the Sydney Opera House to announce the partnership, Arsenal Football Club’s Chief Commercial Officer, Vinai Venkatesham, and Business Development Director, Peter Silverstone, proudly displayed the FA Cup, currently held by the club. Mr Venkatesham said: “We are excited to enter into this partnership with the NSW Government and Destination NSW. As well as being our first partnership agreement in Australia, the deal is unique in combining a tourism partnership with pre-season matches. We look forward to working with our new partner to promote NSW, before bringing our first team to Sydney for two games in 2017 in front of our passionate Australian fans.” NSW Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events and Minister for Sport, Stuart Ayres, said the partnership would see the State promoted to Arsenal fans around the world. “This Australian-first partnership will see Sydney and NSW showcased to a global audience every week, giving our State exposure to millions of Arsenal and English Premier League fans. We are proud to be associated with Arsenal, one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious football clubs, and look forward to welcoming them to Sydney in 2017,” he said. Stadium Australia Group Managing Director, Daryl Kerry, said the unique partnership gave fans two huge sporting events to look forward to at ANZ Stadium in July 2017. “Arsenal are one of the most successful clubs in the English Premier League, the reigning FA Cup holders, and a club steeped in history and with an enormous following here in Australia,” Mr Kerry said. “The partnership with Destination NSW is a fantastic initiative and to have the Gunners bringing their elite squad for two games at ANZ Stadium will have fans all over the country and overseas making plans to visit Sydney.” Minister Stuart Ayres said the two Arsenal tour matches were expected to attract more than 28,000 domestic and international visitors, with a total visitor spend of $18.6 million. “This continues the NSW Government’s record of attracting the world’s best football teams to Sydney. NSW is the home of world-class football, as this partnership again shows,” he said. Destination NSW Chief Executive Officer, Sandra Chipchase, said the partnership would see NSW promoted to millions of football fans

IT’S GUNNER BE AWESOME! around the world. “Arsenal has an enormous global following, with more than 34 million Facebook fans and 6.6 million Twitter followers. This agreement will see NSW promoted through LED perimeter signage, player and legend access, digital and social promotions, instadium activations and match day hospitality,” Ms Chipchase said. “NSW is Australia’s capital of major sporting events, and Arsenal’s tour in 2017 will join a packed major events calendar.” Sydney FC Chairman, Scott Barlow, said: “We are extremely proud to be hosting Arsenal, one of the world’s premier football clubs in Sydney in 2017. “This game follows our hugely successful games against Chelsea and Tottenham in 2015 and is a continuation of the strong relationship we have built with Destination NSW and ANZ Stadium. “I look forward to welcoming Arsenal to Sydney in July 2017 and I anticipate another sell-out crowd and another historic night in Australian football.”

Western Sydney Wanderers Chairman, Paul Lederer, said: “This is the opportunity we have been waiting for and we are very excited. Arsenal are a huge team and we know that many of our fans are also major fans of the Arsenal Football Club. “Our members will be in pole position to see Arsenal in action on Australian shores for the first time since 1977 which is a wonderful outcome for our club and for Western Sydney.” Tickets for Arsenal v Sydney FC and Arsenal v Western Sydney Wanderers on sale August 2016. ANZ Stadium Members will be guaranteed premium seats to both matches. * *Conditions apply.

STADIUM FOOTBALL LEGENDS

YOU’LL NEVER W Julian Keith

T was the day the Kop came to Sydney . . . and the 40,815 Liverpool fans who turned out at ANZ Stadium to see many of the club’s greatest players will never forget the experience. Three generations of Liverpool Legends were serenaded with a rousing rendition of You’ll Never Walk Alone as fans stood as one and sung the iconic tune with a passion and fervour that would have done Merseyside proud. Even Liverpool’s beloved Manager Gerard Houllier, who coached the Liverpool Legends squad in Sydney for the clash with the Australian Legends, was impressed. “It was like a home game. When You’ll Never Walk Alone came on and everyone stood with their scarves and jerseys it was like being at Anfield again,” a beaming Houllier said. Few football clubs in the world boast larger fan numbers than Liverpool. The figures are staggering – 588 million fans worldwide, 650,000 fans in Australia, 32 million social media followers, 5.3 million followers on Twitter alone. The Liverpool Legends game was a fitting tribute to some of the club’s finest ever players – names like Rush, Aldridge, Fowler, Carragher and Gerrard evoking memories of the team’s greatest periods of success. No success was greater than the famous 2005 Champions League victory and Reds fans were treated to a throwback display from Luis Garcia who was instrumental on that night in

Istanbul. Against an Australian Legends team captained by Robbie Slater and featuring many of our greatest Socceroos, the diminutive Spaniard found the back of the net twice early on – first with a neat move and finish past Zeljko Kalac and then on hand to nod home Steven Gerrard’s perfectly dinked cross. The nostalgia in the stands reached fever pitch late in the second half when Reds fans were rewarded with goals from two of their greatest champions. Ian Rush, who scored 346 times and won a staggering 18 trophies in his time at Liverpool, rolled back the years as he tapped in fan favourite John Arne Riise’s sharp cross and sent the crowd into a rapture. In the dying moments of the game the fans were on their feet once more as Riise again sent the ball to the back post but this time it was John Aldridge who dutifully knocked the ball home. It was the perfect throwback as two of Liverpool’s finest goalscorers netted once more in front of the Kop. “It was special,” said Houllier. “It shows you can get old but their talent was to score goals for Liverpool and it’s still there.” The talent shone true for the Liverpool Legends in their 4-0 win but the result was no knock on the Australian Legends who brought back vivid memories of World Cup qualification and golden eras past. Former glories is what brought these players together, but it’s clear their ability to entertain has never left.

WALK ALONE

Liverpool fans in the Kop

LIVERPOOL LEGENDS v AUSTRALIAN LEGENDS

Pictures: Brendon Thorne

Thursday 7 January, ANZ Stadium Liverpool Legends 4 Garcia (27’, 52’); Rush (74’); Aldridge (93’) Australian Legends 0 Crowd: 40,815

STADIUM BLEDISLOE CUP 2016

BRING ON BLEDI GREG GROWDEN

HOSE who follow Australian Rugby know all about the dangers of running before walking. After all, the Wallabies are the masters of unpredictability, performing like superstars when least expected and letting everyone down when success appears a mere formality. They are among the most perplexing major international teams to follow, coming close to sending numerous Wallabies coaches to the funny farm due to their massive and often unexplainable variations in form. That’s why it is perilous to state that the 2016 season will be one of sunlight, hope and glory for the Wallabies. So maybe it is wiser just to argue that there is more than a reasonable possibility of the Wallabies fulfilling their potential over the next 12 months. The reason for such optimism, even if cautious, comes from Australia’s rousing performances at the 2015 World Cup tournament, and their ability, as shown at ANZ Stadium last year, to actually put the world champion All Blacks in their place. The major transformation within the Wallabies has come from their new coach Michael Cheika now feeling comfortable in his position, and having the time to turn them into a hardened, unified group. He was, after all, handed a pretty tough gig. Shortly before the Wallabies went on their end-of-season northern hemisphere tour in late 2014, Cheika was appointed to the head coaching position, after a deeply disillusioned Ewen McKenzie had resigned at the end of a disappointing domestic Test season. That northern tour became virtually a meet and greet for Cheika and the players. But they soon banded together. At the time, the Wallabies were in an enormous mess, after McKenzie had lost the support of numerous key Test players due to major administerial dramas. Discipline was a serious problem within the group, and not surprisingly

‘SO FOR THE FIRST TIME IN A NUMBER OF YEARS, THE WALLABIES HAVE THE COHESIVE LOOK OF A GROUP OF TRUE BELIEVERS.’

on-field and off-field standards slumped dramatically. Cheika soon changed all that. Cheika was a tough no-nonsense back-row forward, who hovered near NSW representative selection back in the 1990s. As a coach, he is as demanding and strict, respecting those who put in, those who believe in the team philosophy, and soon discarding those whom he believes too often want to muck around. He also doesn’t play games with players. He tells them exactly where they sit, and that includes stressing to them the importance of being focused, and that if they want to be fools away from the football field, fine, but they have to face the consequences. When Cheika is in charge, the prime victims are those who let their standards slip. Countless players vouch for the fact that Cheika is at his best on game day, having the rare skill to convince his players in the leadup to kickoff that they have the ability to do anything. He also makes sure that those who have the potential to divide a team are kept well away. Not surprisingly certain troublemakers missed out on the World Cup squad. Cheika is also willing to take gambles, including during the team selection process. So for the first time in a number of years, the Wallabies have the cohesive look of a group of true believers. That was on show at ANZ Stadium last August when the gamble of playing David Pocock supposedly out of

position at No.8 alongside Michael Hooper and Scott Fardy in the back-row proved to be a Cheika masterstroke. Pocock, Hooper and Fardy produced one of the best Australian back-row performances in years, effectively nullifying the All Blacks power base, enabling the Wallabies to win 2719 and with it the Rugby Championship title. Onto the World Cup, and more surprises. Many were anticipating failure, including the serious threat of Australia departing before the quarter-finals, especially after being drawn in the most difficult of pools. However the Wallabies exceeded expectations by making the final, producing several exceptional performances along the way against England and Wales. The All Blacks were admittedly too strong in the final, but after a flawed start the Wallabies deserve praise for how they rallied in the second half to threaten the favourites. That showed Australia had backbone – and with Richie McCaw and Daniel Carter now having said farewell the All Blacks, well, who knows? Let’s just say ANZ Stadium on 20 August 2016 could be as eventful and memorable as to what occurred at the same venue 12 months earlier. *Greg Growden is one of the most respected voices in Australian rugby: a former Sydney Morning Herald sportswriter who is now Rugby Correspondent for ESPN scrum.com

Bledisloe Cup Saturday 20 August See Page 41 for Member booking and dining options.

ISLOE

TROPHY TRIFECTA ANZ STADIUM BLOCKBUSTERS DOMINATE EVENT AWARDS Crystelle Cordero

HEY were two of the biggest football events ever witnessed in Sydney – and the back-to-back visits to ANZ Stadium by English Premier League giants Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea FC last year have now been recognised for their huge contributions to sport and tourism in Australia. ANZ Stadium – in conjunction with the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency Destination NSW – received three major awards for the delivery and presentation of the football blockbusters that were part of a week-long celebration of sport in Sydney. Stadium Australia Group Managing Director Daryl Kerry accepted the trifecta of trophies on behalf of the ANZ Stadium team and Destination NSW at a glittering 2015 Australian Event Awards Ceremony at Sydney’s Doltone House. In accepting the night’s major award – Australia’s Favourite Event of 2015 – Mr Kerry said: “We need to thank Destination NSW for the huge role they played in this event – from the commencement of negotiations to the delivery of a complete Sydney fan-engagement tour. “When we commenced negotiations with Tottenham Hotspur, they announced their intention to do everything they could to make Sydney a Tottenham town. “From the moment their superstars arrived, fan engagement reached new heights. They got out and about in Sydney to meet the fans, and the entire Spurs team climbed the Sydney Harbour Bridge with these images beamed globally, along with

world-first bridge pylon projections, as part of Vivid Sydney, the world’s largest festival of light, music and ideas.” Tottenham Hotspur Chairman Daniel Levy said: “To be named as Australia’s Favourite Event of 2015 is testament to the great work that took place behind the scenes from our staff and players, and our partners at ANZ Stadium and Destination NSW who all made this visit such a success. This would also have not been possible without the tremendous support we received from our fans throughout our time in Sydney.” The Tottenham game was part of a weeklong festival of sport at ANZ Stadium, which also featured the opening State of Origin rugby league game and a visit by fellow English Premier League giants, Chelsea. More than 250,000 fans turned out for the #WeekOfBlockbusters at ANZ Stadium, which ran in tandem with Vivid Sydney. Announcing the award for Best Sporting Event of 2015 for Chelsea FC v Sydney FC, the event judges said it had been a remarkable achievement by ANZ Stadium, Destination NSW and Chelsea to deliver the event in a planning timeframe of just 58 days. Chelsea FC’s Managing Director of Asia Pacific, Mr Adrian New, said: “This award is in consequence of the tremendous work put in by all of the staff at ANZ Stadium to stage the event and the amazing passion of the 83,598 fans who turned up on the night to cheer on the EPL Champions. We look forward to visiting Sydney again soon.” Thanks for your vote!

WINNERS ANZ STADIUM & DESTINATION NSW ●● AUSTRALIA’S FAVOURITE EVENT (AS CHOSEN BY THE PUBLIC) FOR THE TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR TOUR OF SYDNEY, INCLUDING SPURS v SYDNEY FC AT ANZ STADIUM IN FRONT OF 71,549 FANS ●● BEST SPORTING EVENT EPL CHAMPIONS CHELSEA v SYDNEY FC AT ANZ STADIUM IN FRONT OF 83,598 FANS – HIGHEST ATTENDANCE FOR FOOTBALL GAME IN NSW SINCE THE MEN’S FOOTBALL FINAL AT 2000 SYDNEY OLYMPICS ●● BEST ACHIEVEMENT IN MARKETING & COMMUNICATION FOR THE TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR TOUR OF SYDNEY

Picture: Brendon Thorne

AUSTRALIAN EVENT AWARDS STADIUM

ACCESS ALL AREAS ACCESS ALL AREAS ACCESS ALL AREAS ACCESS ALL AREAS

LEGENDS APLENTY CORDERO

CRYSETSEYLOLUEBEHIND THE TAK

SCENE

JARRYD Hayne & Robbie Farah are no strangers to ANZ Stadium – with many of their biggest victories having taken place on its turf. But with their phones out taking selfies and singing You’ll Never Walk Alone, our homegrown heroes were every part the star-struck fans on 7 January. Fresh from his maiden season in the NFL, the Hayne Plane had flown straight to Sydney to witness his favourite team, LFC, take on the Legendroos. And his former Origin team mate and Tigers stalwart Farah (who has the words You’ll Never Walk Alone inscribed on his chest) had spent the week promoting the fixture, talking with media and attending every pre-game event. Hayne had the honour of tossing the coin pre-match before taking his place alongside Australian Legends coach Graham Arnold and Farah in the dugout. It was special to see Hayne and Farah celebrating on the sidelines every time the Reds scored – reminding many of their days as legendary Blues teammates.

GOLDEN MOMENT AS WE GEAR UP FOR ORIGIN I & III, WE TAKE A LOOK BACK AT THIS HISTORY-MAKING MOMENT FROM 2014.

18 JUNE 2014

It was the two minutes 83,421 fans at ANZ Stadium, and the millions of Blues supporters watching on telly, will never forget. NSW halfback Trent Hodkinson etched his name into State of Origin folklore by scoring the winning try and goal of Origin game II, finally ending eight years of Queensland domination and NSW misery. What will go down in 2016? We’ll just have to wait and see.

TRY ME!

Les Petites Vignettes

Available in Members' Bar and Platinum Bar “A serious contender for the best quality French sparkling you’ll find Down Under. Hailing from Burgundy – a region synonymous with exceptional quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes - this elegant import beautifully combines the two varieties to create a rich, rounded and complex sparkling wine blend. A must-try for Members in 2016.” Andreas Breitfuss, Head of Catering

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT… THE PIC-WORTHY HIGHLIGHTS THAT HAD OUR SOCIAL TRIBES TALKING

THIS concert has to go best down as the biggest & ney Syd our 89T #19 ever! #TaylorSwift

GERRARD m aking the dr eams of @LFC fans co tonight @AN me true here ZStadium!

HOW explosive was that Sydney?! Thank you to the thousands of fans who came to #RockOrBust with the legendary #ACDC!

ACCESS ALL AREAS ACCESS ALL AREAS ACCESS ALL AREAS ACCESS ALL AREAS

THE GAME OF

LOVE

Answers: 4, 27-19, 16, Benji Marshall, 2,

ANZ Stadium has set the stage for some of Australia’s most iconic sporting stories. Stories of triumph, champions, heartbreak and destiny. But on the night of Thursday 7 January, it was a game-changing love story that stole the show. LYING in bed one night before Christmas, David, 31, of Bexley, came up with an inspired idea. His girlfriend of nine years, Rebecca Crowe - a diehard Liverpool fan – would soon be attending an LFC Legends clash at ANZ Stadium, and though she was already excited, David wanted to make the night even more memorable. Diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2011 at the age of 23, Rebecca battled through surgery and chemotherapy treatment with David by her side, before receiving another shocking blow. “Right at the end of her treatment, her brother Patrick was murdered outside a bus stop in Parramatta,” explains David. “It was completely devastating. I would spend countless nights watching over her, and the pain she experienced was indescribable.” Then, in December of last year, Rebecca was told her cancer had returned. She would need to have surgery on her remaining ovary on 22 December, days before Christmas. “I always knew I was going to marry this girl, but when we found out the cancer had returned I knew I had to do it soon.” David emailed the promoters of the Legends clash and was put in touch with Pete Blackburn – the event’s creative director, who helped set up the fake story of a “fan experience upgrade” that would see Rebecca chatting with the ground announcer midfield at half time. Rebecca had no idea David was even at the game (he’s a Manchester United fan and “refused” to attend), until he walked out onto the field. “My stomach was churning in the lead up, but

SPORTS IQ

GET SOCIAL CONGRATULATIONS TO LOU TOOHEY – THIS EDITION’S SOCIAL STAR! Share your favourite moments at the Stadium by tagging @ANZStadium on Twitter and Instagram for your chance to win a $50 Food & Beverage voucher and be featured in STADIUM magazine.

once I laid eyes on Bec my nerves completely disappeared. It felt like it was just the two of us in the stadium.” The cheers of 41,000plus people erupted as David got down on one knee and Bec said yes. “It was more than a proposal. It was the first time in a long time that I’d seen that kind of happiness in her eyes. It was the best moment I’ve ever had, and I know she feels the same. She still won’t stop talking about it!” The happy couple received signed team jerseys – including one from Steven Gerrard (Bec’s hero) who wished them the best for their wedding. “This will be treasured, along with the whole night, for the rest of our lives.”

Lou@TinyLou_13: From the front row of the 2000 Olympics for Cathy Freeman’s Semifinal to the front row of Taylor Swift’s biggest show

RECKON YOU’RE A SPORTING GENIUS? PUT YOURSELF TO THE TEST!

❶❶ ❷❷

How many Dally M’s has Johnathan Thurston won?

❸❸

What was the final score of the 2015 Bledisloe Cup clash at ANZ Stadium?

❹❹ ❺❺

How many gold medals did Australia win at the Sydney 2000 Olympics? Who scored the opening try of the 2015 Charity Shield?

How many penalties did Mark Schwarzer save in the Uruguay v Socceroos 2005 shootout?

Check your answers in the margin of the page.

STADIUM OFFICIAL HOSPITALITY

BUSINESS & PLEASURE

EVER WONDERED WHAT IT’S LIKE IN A ZONE BOX, PRIVATE SUITE OR CENTRELINE SEAT? CRYSTELLE CORDERO ASKED THREE OF OUR CORPORATE HOSPITALITY CLIENTS TO GIVE YOU THE INSIDE STORY.

PRIVATE SUITES Name: Sarah Rowland Business: Coca-Cola Amatil Years in a Private Suite: 17

How does a Private Suite help enhance your business? It delivers across a range of objectives but at its core, our suite is about building on relationships with our stakeholders – customers, suppliers and staff. We want to provide our guests with something unique, something memorable and the experience you share in an ANZ Stadium Private Suite can’t be replicated.

What do you love most about being in a Private Suite with clients? The friendships I have formed in the Suite through sharing an unforgettable experience. In those heartstopping moments, while you cheer and sing, a closeness is formed with your guests very quickly and talked about for years after. Tell us about the design of the Coca-Cola suite? We wanted the design to be premium with subtle brand inclusion, while still being unmistakably a Coca-Cola suite. From a functional perspective, it was designed to be multi-purpose including a large table in the centre for meetings, the right mix of standing room/seating and small things like coat hangers to make the experience comfortable.

What are your client’s first reactions? I always enjoy seeing the first reactions, particularly from those accustomed to hospitality. It is a very well designed stadium in terms of the corporate entry, the size and layout of the suites and the

Coca-Cola Amatil Suite

location, all of which, contribute to the “wow” experience. Most memorable events? State Of Origin is always a highlight. Last year’s NRL Grand Final pre-game entertainment and close result was unforgettable. The Foley kick and Waratahs Championship win in 2014. The Foo Fighters and Taylor Swift concerts were amazing. The Swans’ Prelim Final win against Collingwood in 2012 . . . I can keep going! What feedback do you receive from your guests? It is always positive. From the CEOs of some of Australia’s largest companies to a staff member rewarded for good work, I regularly get great direct feedback on the quality of the experience. Your advice to anyone considering a Private Suite? While it is an investment and can be difficult to tangibly measure,

Sarah Rowland

hosting a Private Suite is smart business. I have witnessed the relationships being built, the deals being done and the satisfaction of rewarded staff too many times to not be a big believer that a Private Suite can deliver a return on its investment.

CENTRELINE SEATS Name: Craig Smith Business: CASF, specialising in decorative surfacing materials, including DuPont™ Corian® and Next Timber™ surfaces Years in Centreline Seats: Two What was the initial draw to Centreline Seats? We wanted a way to thank our customers and reward our staff for a job well done. Everyone loves to watch sport and what better way to do it than with your own seats, in a great location, with a sports bar right behind you and a range of craft beers on tap!

The best bit about being in Centreline Seats with clients? Being able to walk them down to our seats for what is literally the very best view of the match. They feel very special! What’s the feedback been like? The most common feedback we receive is just how great the location is and how close to the action you are as a fan. Clients genuinely have a great time in Centreline as it has a fantastic atmosphere where we can all enjoy a great game of sport and have a couple of drinks pre and post-match in a sports bar environment. Your favourite event to date? Too many to name . . . but a personal highlight was when the Waratahs beat the Crusaders to win the

ZONE BOXES

all sorts

gym, swim & indoor sports

Name: Adele Taylor Business: All Sorts Gym and Indoor Sports, a 24-hour gym, pool and indoor sports centre Years in a Zone Box: Three

Why did you want to become a Zone Box holder? Because Zone Boxes proved to be great value for money. Our Zone Box is situated on the halfway line, close to the pitch and undercover. We’re able to watch our Bunnies play their home games as well as enjoy Bledisloe and State of Origin without the hassle of securing tickets. The best part about being in a Zone Box with clients? Guaranteed great undercover seating, while still having that near-to-thefield feel and atmosphere. We can also enjoy more quality time networking with our clients in the catered box instead of queuing up for

Craig Smith (far right)

Super Rugby Final in 2014. We had a mix of Aussies and Kiwis at the game and there was great banter between all of us until the final kick from Bernard Foley.

Your advice to anyone considering Centreline Seats? Try it out! We’ve been able to build new relationships and cement existing ones by using our Centreline Seats.

Adele Taylor

beverages. And the food is fantastic – we even named our dog Pepper Pie after our favourite Zone Box snack.

Any surprise positives to come out of being a Zone Box holder? The access to globally recognised events is exceptional . . . the British and Irish Lions Tour, visiting EPL teams, NRL Grand Finals as well as concerts such as Taylor Swift! I could go on.

Your event highlights? So many! My favourite memory is witnessing the Rabbitohs win the Grand Final . . . the atmosphere was just amazing. The second has to be the Cowboys’ dramatic victory in 2015. Your advice to anyone considering a Zone Box? We would totally recommend Zone Boxes to businesses looking to entertain clients. It can be used for important networking or family fun.

IMPRESS AND INDULGE YOUR CLIENTS WITH ANZ STADIUM'S OFFICIAL HOSPITALITY PACKAGES. CALL 1300 13 40 10 35

IMPRESS. ENTERTAIN. INDULGE. Somethings are a given at ANZ Stadium, like world-class facilities, five-star hospitality and exceptional views of the field. What’s optional is whether you’re looking for a Zone Box for up to 16, a Private Suite for 14 to 40, or if you want a more intimate occasion for a small group. It’s up to you.

Whichever option you choose you can’t help but impress.

ANZSTADIUM.COM.AU 1300 13 40 10

MEMBER’S PERSPECTIVE STADIUM

MEMBER ON TOUR ANZ Stadium Member Gary Lawler (pictured right) won his way to the Rugby World Cup thanks to a Heineken or two in the Members’ Lounge. Here he tells STADIUM about the unforgettable experience. Gary Lawler, ANZ Stadium Member

PENING my Inbox I spotted an email from Heineken. It said I’d won a trip to the Rugby World Cup . . . but I was sure it must be one of my mates geeing me up. Thankfully, I soon received a phone call from Heineken confirming I was the lucky winner, and I allowed myself to become truly excited. The 'Win a trip to the Rugby World Cup' promotion had been held over a number of months at ANZ Stadium, so every time I attended a match I would purchase Heineken and enter the comp. As a lifelong rugby fan (I played throughout my schooling years and follow the Woodies, Waratahs and Wallabies) I set my sights on winning and encouraged my mates to enter too. So it only seemed fair that I took a school friend who I was drinking with during the games, Geoff Lynam. When it was his shout, he gave me the competition ticket to enter online because he reckoned he was too busy to spend two minutes on the computer - but apparently not too busy for two weeks in England! The atmosphere in London was unreal, much the same as it was during the Sydney Olympics. Everyone was wearing their national colours and there was a lot of friendly banter. The final was simply fantastic. We were transported from the hotel direct to the venue and entertained for two hours prior to kick off – including a Haka from three All Blacks legends, one of which was Jonah Lomu.

I feel very privileged to have had that experience and memory. The game itself was something I will never forget. Though I must say it didn’t quite top the 100m final at the Sydney Olympics, with over 110,000 people in attendance - where I actually caught a floral arrangement that had been presented to the gold medallist, Maurice Greene, which he threw into the crowd. I used all my rugby skills to jump above the rest of the pack (including my pregnant wife) to secure the prize. Besides the World Cup final, Geoff and I also attended an NFL game at Wembley and managed to get in a few sights, which was great. Thank you to ANZ Stadium and Heineken for the unforgettable experience. It was definitely a tick off the bucket list and has whet my appetite for the next World Cup!

ANZ STADIUM MEMBERSHIP. YOUR SEAT TO SYDNEY’S BIGGEST SPORTING LINE-UP. NRL TELSTRA PREMIERSHIP GRAND FINAL & FINALS SERIES*, STATE OF ORIGIN I & III, BLEDISLOE CUP, COLLEGE FOOTBALL, SYDNEY SWANS & AFL FINALS*, RABBITOHS, BULLDOGS, EELS, WESTS TIGERS, DRAGONS, SYDNEY THUNDER^, WARATAHS^, AND MORE. ANZSTADIUM.COM.AU

*Subject to team qualification ^Events are held at other venues. Terms and conditions apply.

A LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN

Greece; the College Football Sydney Cup and Bledisloe Cup. For full details see Page 41. The NRL season is finally upon us and in 2016 we welcome back the Rabbitohs and the Bulldogs who will each play nine home games at ANZ Stadium. These along with the biggest matches featuring Wests Tigers, St George Illawarra Dragons and the Parramatta Eels will see 26 regular-season NRL matches (including 21 Sydney derbies), played at the Stadium in 2016. Once again, Members can secure guest access to these regular season games by purchasing the exclusive 2016 Members’ Fan

Pass which is now on sale (see Page 42). It's also that time of the year again to register for your complimentary Easter Show ticket for the 18, 27 or 29th March (see Page 40 for details). For the rugby fans, we continue to work with the NSW Waratahs to provide access to their games with a bonus three-game Waratahs Membership, offering you a choice of any three regular Waratahs games at Allianz Stadium this year. Finally, I recommend that you book for the 6th Annual Members’ Dinner on Tuesday 10 May. An evening of fine food and entertainment with sporting superstars awaits you. Bookings are now open and the evening is guaranteed to sell out! I look forward to seeing you in the Members’ Stand and hopefully at the Members’ Dinner this year. Enjoy the 2016 season.

Membership Renewals Pay your annual subscription 24 hours a day anzstadium.com.au/members Option 3

Mail ANZ Stadium Member Services Locked Bag 1999, Sydney Olympic Park, NSW, 2127

Members’ Ticketing Event booking and all ticketing enquiries. Book online at: anzstadium.com.au/members Option 1

Member Services For all other Membership enquiries anzstadium.com.au/members Email: membership@anzstadium.com.au Option 2 Fax: +61 2 8765 2999

Member Services Contact Hours Non Event Days: Monday to Friday (excluding Public Holidays) 9am to 5.30pm. Major Event Days: By telephone 2 hours prior to gate opening. Box office opens 30 minutes prior to gate opening time.

Members’ Dining To book your dining, book online at: anzstadium.com.au/members Option 1

Membership Sales Call our sales team today on 02 8765 2600

General Admission Event Days Box Office M/N only, 30 minutes prior to gate opening time.

JOHN CLARKE, CHAIRMAN STADIUM AUSTRALIA CLUB

WELCOME ANZ Stadium Members to the 2016 football season after an entertaining summer featuring two football matches, the annual Charity Shield fixture and Sydney Thunder games in Sydney Olympic Park. As a committed sports fan, your investment in an ANZ Stadium Membership is a wise one. Whether you attend each event or pass on your Membership to a friend using the transferability option, the assurance of a guaranteed seat and the additional benefits and offers available to ANZ Stadium Members is unrivalled. In 2016 ANZ Stadium is set to host a blockbuster line-up of events and Member bookings for events and dining are now open for State of Origin I and III; Socceroos v

AS an ANZ Stadium Member, your ticket to every game is included in your Membership. Want to be part of the action? Become an ANZ Stadium Member today at anzstadium.com.au/membership or call (02) 8765 2600.

MEMBER SERVICES CONTACTS Member Services Online anzstadium.com.au/members ANZ Stadium Members’ Information Line 1300 136 006

MEMBERS’ CENTRAL

COMING UP... ANZ STADIUM MEMBERS' FOOTY TIPPING COMPETITION ARE you up to the challenge? The ANZ Stadium Members footy tipping competition for the NRL season is back in 2016. Compete against other Members throughout the season to win major and weekly prizes. You’ve got to be in it to win it and it’s free to enter. For full details and to register visit the Members’ Concierge online at anzstadium.com.au/members.

TUESDAY 10 MAY

6TH ANNUAL MEMBERS’ DINNER THE date has been set for the 2016 Annual Members’ Dinner. Join us for an evening of fine food and entertainment featuring a star-studded line-up of special guests and sporting heroes.

MEMBERS’ DAY AT THE SYDNEY ROYAL EASTER SHOW! It’s the must-attend event of the year, a signature date on the Australian sporting calendar and it’s exclusive to Members and their guests. Now in its 6th year, bookings are now open. anzstadium.com.au/members

DINING SPOTLIGHT COLLEGE FOOTBALL BRUNCH

WE are delighted to once again be working with our reciprocal partner the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW to offer ALL ANZ Stadium Members COMPLIMENTARY entry* to the 2016 Sydney Royal Easter Show! CHOOSE YOUR DATE: Friday 18 March, Easter Sunday 27 March or Tuesday 29 March REGISTER FOR YOUR TICKET! To claim your pass, you must pre-register online. Login to your Members’ Concierge and visit the ‘Benefits and Offers’ page for full details anzstadium.com.au/members. Offer closes strictly on Thursday 3 March 2016. * Exclusive to ANZ Stadium Members. One (1) entry per Membership right valid for either Friday 18 March, Easter Sunday 27 March or Tuesday 29 March 2016. Ticket/entry does not include parking at or travel to Sydney Olympic Park. This offer from our reciprocal partner is an additional benefit over and above the Membership privileges as outlined in the Stadium Australia Club constitution.

COLLEGE Football is coming and we invite you to make a day of it. Or is that a morning of it? With kick-off at 12pm, we’re hosting a special buffet brunch that is exclusive to Members and their guests. This one-off dining experience will feature a delicious combination of hot and cold brunch favourites including pastries, fruit, potato and bacon hash, eggs, a range of sweet treats and more, all complemented with fresh juices, tea and coffee. Brunch is served from 10am. Book Now.

MEMBERS’ CENTRAL

MEMBERS' BOOKING GUIDE EVENT

BOOKING CLOSE DATE*

PAYING GUEST TICKET PRICE

ARENA*

MEMBERS’ RESTAURANT*

MEMBERS’ BRASSERIE*

Three-courses - $128 Junior - $50

Adult - $120^ or - $90 Junior - $45

* State of Origin I 1 June

15 April

$190

Five-courses - $160^ Junior - $50

Socceroos v Greece 4 June

22 April

Adult $105 / Junior $85

Three-courses - $128^ Two-courses - $100^ Junior - $50

State of Origin III 13 July

27 May

$190

Five-courses - $160^ Junior - $50

8 July

$164

Five-courses - $160^ Junior - $50

26 August or from Members’ Box Office M/N on match day

$149

Brunch $55

Adult $30 / Junior $15 or purchase a Members’ Fan Pass

STADIUM CAFE $21- $33

College Football Sydney Cup 27 August 2016 NRL Season Club Home Games

No booking required

MEMBER TERRACES

$9.50 - $22

Meals, bar and snacks

$9.50 - $22

Meals, bar and snacks

$9.50 - $22

Meals, bar and snacks

$9.50 - $22

Meals, bar and snacks

$9.50 - $22

Meals, bar and snacks

* Adult - $108^ or - $78 Junior - $39

* Three-courses - $128 Junior - $50

* Bledisloe Cup 20 August

PLATINUM CAFÉ

Adult - $120^ or - $90 Junior - $45

* Three-courses - $128 Junior - $50

* Adult - $120^ or - $90 Junior - $45

* Brunch $55

* Bar and snacks

ARENA

MEMBERS’ BRASSERIE

MEMBER TERRACES

The ultimate Members’ dining experience located on Level 5. Platinum Member priority. A magnificent menu of enticing, immaculately prepared cuisine, matched with outstanding wine and exemplary service.

Sumptuous hot and cold buffet featuring our chef’s specialities from seafood to carved roasts, a range of desserts and cheeses. Available to all Members and their guests. Beverage package optional.

The Member Sin Bin and Cauldron Terraces offer fast gourmet meals with great views of the field of play. Access from the Level 1 concourse. Full range of fast food and snacks.

PLATINUM CAFÉ

STADIUM CAFÉ

Outstanding pre-match dining featuring a seasonally designed set menu incorporating the finest Australian produce. Available to all Members and their guests.

The southern end of the Lounge is exclusive to Platinum Members to enjoy a café meal or drink from the Platinum Bar. Quick and relaxed, bistro-style meals.

Quick and relaxed pre-match dining with a view of the field. Serving bistro favourites complemented by an extensive range of premium beer and wine.

MEMBERS’ RESTAURANT

^ Beverage package included, featuring premium wines and beer. * Bookings essential. Members’ dining bookings, cancellations and amendments - Bookings for Members’ dining close 5 working days before the event, unless fully booked. Once fully booked, Members may waitlist for dining. Platinum Members are given first priority for Arena, but are required to book before the applicable event’s Booking Close Date. A 100% cancellation fee will be incurred if a reservation is not cancelled or amended 5 full working days prior to the event. For example, for an event held on Saturday 20 August, cancellations or amendments must be made in writing by 5pm, Friday 12 August. This will also apply if you do not attend to dine on the day of the event.

MEMBERS’ CENTRAL

WARATAHS BONUS MEMBERSHIP THERE’S still time to claim your complimentary* NSW Waratahs 3 Game Flexi-Membership. Exclusive to ANZ Stadium Members, this bonus membership allows you to attend three Waratahs home games played at Allianz Stadium (Sydney Football Stadium). For full details visit the Members’ Benefits and Offers page at anzstadium.com.au/members.

*$15 transaction fee applies per 3 Game Flexi-Membership claimed. Booking close dates apply. Excludes finals.

MEMBERS ARE WINNERS CONGRATULATIONS to Fiona Montgomery who is the lucky winner of our ‘Renew Online, On Time and Win’ promotion. Fiona has won a trip for two to the second test of the Bledisloe Cup at Westpac Stadium in Wellington on 27 August. You could be a winner too. Check your Member eNews for more Member exclusive promotions and competitions throughout 2016.

SS FAN PA 2016

BRING A GUEST FOR LESS WITH A MEMBERS’ FAN PASS

FAN PASS

JUNIO

R - 20

027462 02746

ADULT CHILD

1 Pass $113.00 1 Pass $67.00

EXCLUSIVE to ANZ Stadium Members, the Members’ Fan Pass is a great way to share the Members’ experience with your guests. The Fan Pass is valid for all regular season NRL matches held at ANZ Stadium. Members can purchase up to three passes per Membership Right and the more you purchase, the more you save.

2 Passes $200.00 2 Passes $113.00

3 Passes $277.00 3 Passes $164.00

The 2016 NRL season is finally here, so now is the perfect time to buy. Purchase online at anzstadium.com.au/members or call 1300 136 006 (Option 2)

*Exclusive to ANZ Stadium Members. Each Members’ Fan Pass acts as a Paying Guest ticket for valid events. Three guests may access each event per the number of Rights a Member holds. Not valid for finals matches.

MEMBERS’ MERCHANDISE GET geared up for the season with our ANZ Stadium Members’ Merchandise range. Featuring smart, stylish and modern designs, our merchandise is also practical and comfortable. A men’s and ladies polo, spray jacket, cap, scarf and tie are just some of the great items available. Purchase on event day from the Members’ Concierge Desk or online at anzstadium.com.au/members

RECIPROCAL RIGHTS ANZ STADIUM Members enjoy Reciprocal Rights at partner sporting venues across the country and New Zealand. Review our extensive list below;

■■Australian Racing Driver’s Club

■■Eden Park, Auckland

■■Brisbane Cricket Ground (The ‘Gabba)

■■South Australian Cricket Association (Adelaide Oval)

■■Australian Turf Club

■■Cricket Tasmania (Bellerive Oval)

■■Melbourne Cricket Club

■■Western Australian Cricket Association (The WACA) ■■Westpac Stadium, Wellington

Full details can be found in the benefits and offers section of our website anzstadium.com.au/members. Be sure to read and understand the available information from each Reciprocal Partner entirely as they differ greatly from the ANZ Stadium Membership. If you wish to utilise Reciprocal Rights, we always recommend you confirm your booking well in advance of the event date.

SWANS MEMBERS’OFFER

SYDNEY SWANS ROLL OUT THE RED AND WHITE CARPET FOR ANZ STADIUM MEMBERS A

NZ Stadium Members will be granted access to three Sydney Swans games at the SCG for the next three seasons following an agreement between the club, Stadium and AFL that will see the Swans transfer their regular-season games scheduled for ANZ Stadium in 2016. The Swans’ contract to play three matches per season at ANZ Stadium was due to expire at the end of 2016 and, for strategic reasons, the club had already decided not to renew that contract. As a result, the Swans recently approached ANZ Stadium management and expressed a strong desire to play all 2016 matches at the SCG. In response to this request, ANZ Stadium management agreed to enter into negotiations with the Swans but only on the basis that the Stadium’s valued Members would be significantly better off as a result of any agreement. Keen to repay ANZ Stadium Members for their support over the past 14 seasons, the Swans agreed not only to provide Members with access to three home games of their choice in 2016 – but also three games in season 2017 and again in 2018. The three Swans games in 2016 that will be played at the SCG are: • Round 1 Sydney Swans v Collingwood Magpies Saturday 26 March; • Round 7 Sydney Swans v Essendon Bombers Saturday 7 May; • Round 18 Sydney Swans v Carlton Blues Saturday 23 July. The AFL has confirmed that any AFL Finals that the Sydney Swans are entitled to host in 2016 will be played at ANZ Stadium.

ANZ Stadium Managing Director, Mr Daryl Kerry, said: “The Sydney Swans have been event partners of the Stadium since 2002 and have significantly grown their brand in the Greater Sydney area. It goes to the heart of our relationship that the Swans have made an exceptional offer to ANZ Stadium’s valued Members and Corporate Guests.” Mr Kerry said the agreement between the Swans and the Stadium provided an opportunity for ANZ Stadium Members to not only attend any three matches of their choice in 2016 but also access to matches in 2017 and 2018 that would not otherwise have been available. The Sydney Swans began playing at Sydney’s Olympic stadium in 2002 and hold the record for the highest AFL attendance for any game played outside of Victoria (72,393 v Collingwood, Rd 21 2003). In fact, of the 42 regular-season home games the Swans hosted at ANZ Stadium, the Swans’ average attendance was a healthy 40,854. In 10 Finals games hosted at ANZ Stadium, the Swans have averaged 44,372. The Sydney Swans' decision to bring forward the end of their contract will allow ANZ Stadium management to finalise exciting new events for 2016 and beyond – providing a win/win for ANZ Stadium Members and general NSW sports fans. ANZ Stadium Members: Go to Members’ Concierge for all entitlements following Sydney Swans’ decision to move three 2016 season games to SCG.

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