Ballarat City Oval upgrades completed, slated for 2026 BFNL grand finals

Refurbishment works on the historic Ballarat City Oval grandstand have been finished. The project, funded with $1.7 million from the City of Ballarat and a $100,000 Australian Football League Facilities Fund grant, upgraded player changerooms, added new toilets and showers, and improved accessibility for women, girls and people with disabilities while preserving the venue’s 128‑year heritage.

The upgraded facilities are now open to the public and will host the Ballarat Football Netball League (BFNL) grand finals in 2026, beginning with the BFLW final on 30 August and the senior final on 19 September. League officials said the venue will provide a “fantastic experience” for clubs and supporters, while discussions continue on the long‑term use of Mars Stadium once its own renovations are complete.