The Gather Round security review has taken centre stage this week after a scare at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) raised serious questions about stadium safety. With AFL’s Gather Round set to draw massive crowds in South Australia once again, concerns have been renewed over how prepared venues are to handle potential threats, both minor and serious, in today’s security-conscious environment.
The incident at the MCG, which involved a fan breaching security barriers during a high-profile match, sent shockwaves through the AFL community and beyond. While no one was injured and the intruder was quickly apprehended, the breach served as a timely and sobering reminder of the importance of robust event security—especially at venues expected to host tens of thousands of fans.
AFL officials, in conjunction with state and federal law enforcement agencies, have confirmed that a comprehensive Gather Round security review is now underway. The goal, they say, is not only to prevent incidents like the MCG breach but also to instil public confidence that safety is a top priority.
What Happened at the MCG
During a weekend match that drew one of the season’s largest crowds, a lone spectator managed to bypass security measures and enter the playing area, momentarily disrupting the game. Players were seen visibly shaken, and spectators voiced their concerns both in person and across social media. Although the situation was resolved without any violence, it exposed gaps in current protocols and triggered immediate discussions at the highest levels of AFL management.
Authorities later stated that the intruder appeared to be acting alone and was not armed, but the potential for a more dangerous outcome highlighted the need for a thorough evaluation of crowd control and access points.
Impact on Gather Round Planning
The Gather Round security review comes at a critical time as Adelaide prepares to host the AFL’s second-ever Gather Round—a celebration of footy featuring all 18 clubs competing across a packed weekend of matches. The event, which debuted in 2023 to great success, is expected to attract interstate visitors, increase hotel occupancy, and inject millions into the local economy.
However, with increased attendance comes increased responsibility. Security experts have warned that events of this scale require not only careful logistical planning but also dynamic security strategies that can adapt to evolving threats.
South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas has assured the public that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure fan safety. “We are in constant communication with AFL officials and emergency services to reassess and reinforce safety procedures. Our priority is to deliver a safe, enjoyable experience for every attendee,” he said.
Public Reaction and Safety Concerns
Public sentiment following the MCG scare has been mixed. While many fans have expressed confidence in the AFL’s swift response, others are demanding more visible security measures at stadiums. Families with young children, in particular, have voiced concerns about how quickly security can respond in case of a serious emergency.
Several fan groups have also urged the AFL to communicate openly about what changes are being made as a result of the Gather Round security review. Calls for increased CCTV coverage, more trained security staff, and faster response teams are among the common suggestions from the public.
Expert Insights on Event Security
Event security specialists have weighed in, noting that modern stadium safety goes far beyond bag checks and metal detectors. “It’s about crowd psychology, pattern detection, and response readiness,” one Melbourne-based security consultant explained. “Technology helps, but trained personnel and real-time decision-making are what ultimately prevent incidents.”
He further noted that sporting events, especially those with national attention like the Gather Round, are always potential targets for disruptions—not necessarily violent, but disruptive enough to create fear or confusion.
What to Expect at Gather Round 2025
As the AFL continues its Gather Round security review, fans can expect to see some visible changes when they attend games. These may include:
- Increased security personnel both inside and outside stadiums
- Tighter perimeter controls at entry points
- Drone surveillance over larger crowd areas
- Behaviour detection officers trained to spot suspicious activity
- More robust communication systems for emergency alerts
While officials are careful not to disclose too many specifics for operational security reasons, they maintain that the measures are proportionate, necessary, and designed to enhance—not hinder—the fan experience.
AFL’s Commitment to Safety
The AFL has reiterated its commitment to providing a safe environment for both players and fans. In a public statement, the league confirmed that the Gather Round security review is being treated with the utmost seriousness and that any necessary policy adjustments will be made in consultation with experts and stakeholders.
“Our game thrives because of the fans. Ensuring their safety is non-negotiable. We’ll continue to evolve and improve our protocols to ensure that Gather Round—and every round—is safe for all,” said AFL CEO Andrew Dillon.
Conclusion
The Gather Round security review marks a pivotal moment for Australian sport, underscoring the need to balance open, family-friendly entertainment with the realities of modern-day risks. While the MCG scare may have been a one-off incident, it has prompted a much-needed reassessment that could lead to lasting improvements across all major sporting events in the country.
As Adelaide gears up for another memorable footy festival, fans can rest assured that safety is being taken seriously at every level. And while no system can guarantee 100% prevention, a proactive approach is the best defence in ensuring the show goes on—securely and confidently.
