Melbourne Leisure

The people of Melbourne, like most Aussies, love a good sporting match. Apart from the many world-class sporting events scheduled throughout the year, Melbourne is also home to league-play cricket, rugby, football and Aussie Rules Football. The city makes an excellent base for outdoor adventures around the area, with bushwalking or a trip to one of Victoria’s outstanding national parks being a great way to see the unique countryside.

With the ocean at your doorstep, you can indulge in surfing, swimming or simply lounging in the sand. The ever-present sunshine and warm weather ensures you’ll get the most out of any outdoor experience.

Team sports

Melbourne’s number one sport is Aussie Rules Football, also known as ‘footy’. This skillful and violent game is unlike any other sport, and really should be seen live if you enjoy hard-hitting sports. Melbourne is considered to be the kings of the sport, and is home to 10 of the 16 teams which compete in the Australian Football League. The footy season begins on the third weekend in March and runs through to the last weekend in September. If you can, catch a game at the high-tech indoor Telstra Dome.

From October to March, when the footballers takes a break, cricket takes over in Melbourne. The Melbourne Cricket Ground is arguably Australia’s most hallowed cricket field, and can handle 97,500 spectators. Any fan of the sport should experience a one-day match at this venerable ground. Rugby Union and Rugby League are also followed by a fair number of people, but these sports aren’t as popular as cricket or footy.

Horse racing

This city has a long love affair with horse racing, going back to 1861, when the first Melbourne Cup was held here. Today, this prestigious event is still held in the city on the first Tuesday in November. During the rest of the year, the residents of Melbourne can enjoy the city’s four race tracks.  

Surfing

People in Australia take up surfing from a very young age, which is understandable given the world-class conditions right on the city’s doorstep. With warm, clean water and consistent waves, Melbourne is a great place to learn the sport or develop your existing skills. Surfing equipment is available for rent at all of the major surf spots and lessons can also be had for a reasonable price.

Golf

Melbourne has the highest number of championship golf courses in the country and is considered by many to be a mecca for golfers of all levels. There are a number of excellent and scenic public golf courses which are open to the public, many of which are just minutes from the city centre. If you want to indulge in some truly spectacular golfing, there are also several private courses in the area.