CBD hotels kicking goals for Gather Round

Hotels across the Adelaide CBD are gearing up for a bumper Gather Round weekend, with occupancy expected to hit 92 per cent by Saturday.

New data from hotel industry site STR, analysed by the Adelaide Economic Development Agency, showed the expected occupancy rate increased from 89 per cent last week to 92 per cent on 13 April 2023.

More than 200,000 tickets have already been sold across the nine AFL matches, with more than 50,000 interstate fans descending on South Australia for the historic four-day football festival. 

AEDA Acting Managing Director Greg Ratsch said Gather Round was a major coup for South Australia.

"The eyes of Australia are on Adelaide for Gather Round, and this is reflected in the large number of interstate visitors we understand are coming into the City," Mr Ratsch said.

Footy fans can also enjoy the Pepsi Max Footy Festival at Elder Park, featuring entertainment, local vendors, player appearances, a zip line over the River Torrens and NAB AFL Auskick Clinics.

All nine matches of the round will shown on big screens.

There are also Gather Round activations in Rundle Mall, including a 9.5m inflatable Sherrin football in Gawler Place, AFL and rebel pop-up stores and a Chemist Warehouse photobooth.

Premier Peter Malinauskas looked forward to welcoming visitors into South Australia. 

“I know our hospitality and tourism sectors are already reaping significant benefits," the Premier said.

“I encourage all South Australians to soak up the festival atmosphere. Get to a game, attend one of the many events, or enjoy the free festivities.

“Let’s make this a week to remember.”

Adelaide Oval Chief Executive Officer Nick Addison said the Gather Round was an "amazing opportunity" to showcase Adelaide Oval at its best to footy fans across the country. 

“It’s a great challenge for our world-class team who are looking forward to being a part of it – they’re already hard at work preparing local produce in the kitchens, putting finishing touches on the turf, and setting everything from Oval Hotel to our corporate areas and kiosks, ready to welcome thousands of fans across the weekend," Mr Addison said.

AFL Chief Executive Gillon McLachlan said momentum and excitement had been astounding.

“Our first four rounds of the season have been sensational, record crowds, free-flowing footy and this week might be our best one yet," Ms McLachlan said.

Notes: Sample size is of 34 CBD accommodation providers.