Barossa Park to close as Gather Round moves in
AFL Gather Round is returning to Barossa Park on 11 and 12 April, with plans well underway for another spectacular two days of footy.
To facilitate the build of significant infrastructure for the major event, Barossa Park will be closed to the general public from 9 March until 2 May. This will allow contractors to transform the site in time for match day and bump out after the final siren sounds.
Meanwhile, clubs and user groups calling the venue home have been approved conditional access to the second oval and courts until 21 March.
The Barossa Council Mayor Bim Lange said Council has worked hard to negotiate and facilitate access to Barossa Park, given the huge preparations required on
site.
“We’ve been liaising with local user groups and sporting clubs to minimise the impact on training schedules and games,” said Mayor Lange.
“We appreciate everyone’s patience, including the general public who will be inconvenienced by the site lock down. Lyndoch Village Green remains open and it’s a great place to keep active, admire the view and walk the dog.”
Building on the success of last year’s Gather Round matches at Barossa Park, Mayor Lange admits watching the infrastructure taking shape at the Lyndoch based ground is an impressive sight.
“It’s a massive job for AFL contractors and it takes time, but it’s also massive for our region,” he said.
“I can’t wait to see the magic happen before our eyes and the economic benefits roll in for the entire community as more people travel here to enjoy the incredible atmosphere.
“Our Barossa Food and Wine Village in Tanunda’s Main Street on 11 April is well on track to be our most amazing event yet, and the Festival of Footy program is bursting at the seams!
“This is an opportunity to showcase what we do best and cement our position as a leading event destination in the nation.”
Council is working collaboratively with AFL and SATC to finalise activations for Gather Round beyond the two AFL games. Stay up to date via Barossa.sa.gov.au.
Story & Image via Lyndoch Grapevine – March 2026
