News Alert |

Mars Stadium ground staff will begin works this morning to transform the sportsground ahead of the stadium’s first Super Rugby match this February.    The installation of goal posts footings and sleeves, which will be a permanent fixture at Mars Stadium for all future rugby matches, will commence on Monday morning.    The goal posts will then be installed once the footings are set.    Final preparations, which includes line marking, will commence during the week leading up to the match.    The Melbourne Rebels will take on the Queensland Reds during a practice match at Mars Stadium on Friday 1 February at 6pm.    The City of Ballarat has entered into a three-year partnership with the Melbourne Rebels, providing the region’s rugby union fans a chance to see their idols in action right here in Ballarat.    More than 2000 people are expected to attend the upcoming practice match which will also feature activities throughout the day for the whole family.  A number of these activations will be specifically targeted at women and girls in an effort to promote rugby being played in Ballarat – particularly women’s rugby.    All tickets (prices outlined below) will be available to purchase on the day at Mars Stadium. There will be no Eftpos facilities available on the day, so cash will be required to purchase a ticket.   Adults $10   Concession $5 (students over 16 and pension card holders)   Children under 16 FREE 

Gates open at 4.30pm.   The City of Ballarat is also running a competition via its Facebook for two lucky people to each win a double pass to the game.    For more information about the competition follow @BallaratCityCouncil on Facebook, and for further details about the match-day activities follow @melbournerebels