$45.7 million upgrade at Lyndoch's Barossa Park completed as preparation begin for AFL Gather Round

The South Australian Government and The Barossa Council’s landmark new Barossa Park sporting precinct has been officially completed, as event works begin to ensure it is ready to host AFL Gather Round 2025 matches.

Commenting on the completion of the jointly-funded $45.7 million upgrade to the Lyndoch Oval venue - which was finished ahead of schedule – South Australian Premier, Peter Malinauskas stated “this landmark upgrade and new precinct will live on well beyond next month’s AFL Gather Round and I’m excited to see how it will benefit the community, and our great state, for years to come.

“My Government was determined to include the Barossa in the AFL Gather Round experience, and thanks to this seriously impressive development, that is now of course a reality.

“I take my hat off to and thank all who were involved in delivering this amazing facility, in record time, and encourage locals and visitors alike to come and experience the magic of the Barossa region - during, before and after Gather Round 2025.”

The AFL have begun to prepare the site in readiness for more than 10,000 fans to descend on the precinct when North Melbourne takes on the Gold Coast on Saturday 12th April, followed by Richmond versus Fremantle the following day.

Premier Malinauskas noted that residents and the broader community can also look forward to a community open day at the site post Gather Round, in early May.

Barossa Mayor, Bim Lange added “I couldn’t be prouder of what has been achieved at this site in 11 short months in partnership with the (South Australian) Government, which will be a game-changer for our community and the regional economy.

“We couldn’t have scripted a better outcome for the Barossa, with two AFL games, A Festival of Footy and tens of thousands of footy fans enjoying the best the Barossa has to offer.

“What’s more, after the final whistle blows, our community will be the custodians of this marquee venue, ensuring recreation, social and tourism benefits for generations to come.”

Beyond AFL Gather Round, Barossa Park will be a landmark destination for the region, offering a multi-use precinct that will bring new events and festivals to a high-profile regional location and drive visitation to the State.

The new venue includes a multipurpose building comprising a 350-seat event space, clubrooms with commercial kitchen, multi-sport change facilities and gym, a mini-Adelaide Oval replica bar and service area to support events and the cricket club, new netball courts, a recreation green and second oval, athletics track, shelters, a new playground and family garden, more carparks and a formalised roadway.

More than 15,000 plants were grown at Barossa Bushgardens to green the site, where more than 450 trees will be established.

Image: The newly upgraded Barossa Park sporting precinct.