GIO Stadium will be able to proceed with a crowd of about 9,600 for the NRL finals match to be played at the venue this Saturday, after ACT Chief Health Officer Dr Kerryn Coleman gave the green light for a crowd increase yesterday.
The new capacity is equal to half of the available seating at the stadium, which takes into account parts of the stadium that are not accessible to fans because of COVID-19 restrictions, such as “clean zones”.
The NRL yesterday (Sunday 27 September) announced that the Canberra Raiders would play the Cronulla Sharks at GIO Stadium at 5.40pm on Saturday 3 October.
“I am very pleased to be able to increase the capacity for this game, which has been made possible by excellent adherence to the COVID-Safe measures by fans and event staff at recent games at the stadium,” Dr Coleman said.
The increase to crowd capacity follows a successful pilot to allow 6,000 spectators at the Brumbies’ Super Rugby AU grand final and the Raiders’ NRL match against the Warriors the previous weekend (19 and 20 September respectively).
Dr Coleman said spectators responded well to the COVID-safe measures that were implemented to ensure the health and welfare of fans, players and officials.
Venues Canberra is closely monitoring the evolving COVID-19 situation to ensure it operates in line with government guidelines and the National COVID-19 Safe Workplace Principles.
To support the increased capacity, Venues Canberra will increase its security presence, with a focus on messaging regarding physical distancing, seating compliance and preventing overcrowding at locations in and around the venue.
All attendees will be required to make sure they are aware of and abide by the COVID-19 terms and conditions online at giostadiumcanberra.com.au/covid-19-conditions-of-entry/.
As with all decisions related to COVID-19, this increased crowd capacity may need be reconsidered if there is sudden deterioration in the COVID-19 situation in the ACT.
Dr Coleman reminded people to stay home if they were unwell, even if they have purchased a ticket.
Anybody experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 (even if these are mild) should get tested.
Ticket sales will open to Raiders members today, followed by non-members tomorrow.
