Photo Credit: Melbourne Stars
The Melbourne Stars, in conjunction with the Hawthorn FC, have developed a Sensory Room at the MCG at our first four home matches of BBL|11.
It is important to make sure everyone feels safe, supported and included at the cricket. That’s why this season, we’re so excited to be launching The Inclusion Project at our first four Melbourne Stars MCG home matches.
The Inclusion Project’s Sensory Room will be located in the Olympic Stand – Yarra Park Room, with entry via Gate 3 and will open from 5.30pm on Friday 10 December 2021 at our first home match.
What is The Inclusion Project?
For many families, going to the cricket is an exciting ritual. Yet it can often be a stressful experience navigating through the busy environment with many large crowds and loud noises. It can be even more stressful when you or someone you are attending with has a disability which is not immediately apparent to staff.
These hidden disabilities can include autism, anxiety issues, mental health conditions, dementia, visual impairments, deaf or hard of hearing. The Melbourne Stars have recently partnered with The Inclusion Project for four of our home games. The aim of this program is to assist you to create the most stress-free cricket experience in a discreet manner. This program supports fans requiring special assistance as they navigate through the stadium.
Those who sign up for a Hidden Disabilities Pack will receive:
- A lanyard to wear from arrival at the stadium to allow staff to recognise that you may require additional assistance throughout the game.
- A Sensory Map to identify high sensory and low sensory areas to help you navigate through the stadium and prepare for additional noise, crowded areas.
- Social Stories that illustrate how to navigate through the MCG, displayed through pictures in an easy to understand structure.
Staff training
Staff will all be trained in how to support someone wearing a lanyard to ensure that additional care and consideration is provided during your time at the game and ensures staff are able to assist you if needed. Whether that be guiding you through each step, providing you information or lending a helping hand to navigate through the match.
You can request a Hidden Disabilities Pack via the Hawthorn FC website here
Go Stars!
Name of Author: Melbourne Stars
Melbourne Stars are a Twenty20 cricket franchise based in Melbourne, Victoria, competing in Australia’s Big Bash League. The team wears a green uniform and plays its home matches at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.
