Manuka Oval

Manuka Oval, located in the ACT, serves as the second home for the GWS Giants, hosting several matches each season. With a seating capacity of 15,351, it offers both day and night games in a prime location just southeast of Parliament House. Notably, it houses the Jack Fingleton scoreboard, originally from the MCG. Public transport is the best option on event days, with free Transport Canberra services for ticket holders. Paid parking options are also available nearby, with accessible parking for those with DDA permits.

Manuka Oval Information

Capacity: 15,351 (13,550 Seated)
Address: Manuka Circle, Griffith, ACT 2603
Ground Dimensions: 160m x 132m
Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible car park, entrance, and toilet
Tickets: Ticketmaster

Key Features of Manuka Oval

• Seating and Capacity:
  • The oval can accommodate around 16,000 spectators, making it ideal for smaller-scale international and domestic events.
  • Offers a mix of seating options, including general admission, corporate hospitality, and members’ areas.
• Primary Uses:
  • Cricket: Hosts international matches, including ODIs and T20s, as well as domestic competitions such as the Big Bash League (BBL) for the Sydney Thunder.
  • AFL: Serves as a secondary home ground for the Greater Western Sydney Giants (GWS Giants).
  • Other Events: Occasionally used for community gatherings, concerts, and exhibitions.
• Facilities:
  • Includes modern amenities such as player facilities, broadcast infrastructure, and spectator services.
  • Features a state-of-the-art scoreboard and upgraded lighting for night games.
• Heritage and Setting:
  • Surrounded by well-maintained gardens and tree-lined streets, it offers a unique and scenic venue experience.
  • Opened in the 1920s, it has a rich history as one of Canberra’s most beloved sporting venues.

Getting to Manuka Oval

Manuka Oval is in the heart of the ACT slightly south east of Parliament House, due to its close proximity to the heart of the city there are plenty of transport options available.

Driving

While driving to the venue is an option many patrons choose to use, on event days they are strongly urged to consider using public transport and ride share options if available.

Parking

There are several parking options available in the surrounding area for patrons on event days.

Paid parking is available at the Telopea Park school grounds, Wesley Uniting Church, and on the corner of Fitzroy Street and National Circuit. The cost is usually in the vicinity of $10 per vehicle and is only a short 5 minute walk from the venue.

Additionally overflow car parking is also available at the Kingston Foreshore which is also between 5-10 minutes walking distance to the venue.

Accessibility Parking

For accessible patrons there is parking available between Manuka Oval and Manuka Arts Centre, however all vehicles must have their DDA permits clearly displayed.

Public Transport

On game days, all Transport Canberra services are free to patron with a pre-purchased game day ticket, it is recommended to have your game day ticket easily accessible for the light rail customer service officers to avoid holding them up.

Bus services will pick up and drop off from Kingston and Manuka shops.

Nearby Amenities

Close to Manuka’s cafes, restaurants, and shops, allowing visitors to enjoy the area before or after events.

Interesting Facts:

• The oval has hosted Prime Ministers’ XI cricket matches, a unique fixture in Australian cricket.
• The Jack Fingleton Scoreboard, named after the Australian cricketer and journalist, adds to its historical significance.
• Despite its size, Manuka Oval has played host to several international cricket matches, solidifying its reputation as a high-quality boutique venue.

Manuka Oval FAQs

How many people can Manuka Oval hold?

Manuka Oval has a seating capacity of approximately 13,550, with a total capacity of around 15,000 when including standing areas.

Can I take water into Manuka Oval?

Yes, patrons are permitted to bring:

• Unopened, non-alcoholic beverages in containers of 1 litre or less (excluding glass, cans, or breakable containers).
• Empty, refillable water bottles or thermoses up to 1 litre in capacity, subject to inspection upon entry.

This policy allows attendees to stay hydrated during events.

Why is it called Manuka Oval?

The name “Manuka” is derived from the Māori term for the Leptospermum scoparium, commonly known as the tea tree, which is native to New Zealand and parts of Australia. The surrounding area, including Manuka Circle and the nearby shopping precinct, adopted this name, which was subsequently applied to the oval.

Is Manuka Oval a batting pitch?

Yes, the pitch at Manuka Oval is generally considered batting-friendly. It offers even pace and true bounce, providing favourable conditions for batsmen. While fast bowlers might find some movement early on, the consistent nature of the pitch tends to support high-scoring games.