This weekend, a new all-weather entertainment hub called ‘The Huddle’ will open at GIO Stadium Canberra, the sports facility in Bruce, while football fans will henceforward pay less for food at matches.

The ACT Government has worked with the ACT Brumbies (rugby union) and Canberra Raiders (rugby league) to improve the game day experience at GIO Stadium and attract more attendees to matches, Yvette Berry, Acting Chief Minister and Minister for Sport and Recreation, said.

The Huddle would bring the stadium’s western forecourt to life, Ms Berry said. It will be a venue for music and local entertainment; there will be a screen to watch the game; and opportunities to engage with the Brumbies and the Raiders clubs on game days.

The Huddle will offer food sourced from local produce and craft or mainstream beer as well as other beverages. 

The Huddle will operate on all game days, pre- and post-match.

Chips, pies, sausage rolls, hot chips, hot dogs, and soft drinks will each be $1 cheaper and less than $5 at GIO Stadium’s public food outlets.

Ms Berry said lessening costs for food will make it easier for families to support their favourite teams.

“We want to make sure it’s still affordable and fun for families to get along to the footy this year,” Ms Berry said.

Phil Thomson, CEO of the ACT Brumbies, said he welcomed all the ACT Government’s initiatives to reduce the costs for families attending matches at GIO Stadium.

Don Furner, CEO of the Canberra Raiders, said: “The Huddle entertainment area at GIO Stadium Canberra, and the announced food item discounts, provide more reasons to get out and experience matches live.

“We pride ourselves on the many game day interactions and engagements we facilitate when playing matches in Canberra. Today’s announcements by Venues Canberra (ACT Government) demonstrate our collective commitment of providing quality entertainment at an affordable price.

“We look forward to seeing many people attending matches in 2023 as we return to pre-Covid normality.”