Former AFL Star Criticizes Absence of Essential Element at Games in 2025

Former AFL star Dane Swan expressed surprise upon learning that food vendors selling meat pies and cold drinks are no longer present at many professional sporting grounds in Australia. Swan, 41, who won a premiership with Collingwood in 2010, was taken aback by the gradual disappearance of this aspect of the game-day experience. He took to social media to share his disbelief, questioning why this tradition has been phased out.

Swan's friends explained to him that food vendors are no longer around due to health and safety regulations, especially concerning the temperature of the food being served. Some fans also pointed out that the practice was halted during the Covid-19 pandemic and has not been reinstated. Another reason cited was the shift towards electronic payments over cash transactions.

While food vendors still operate at the MCG, the situation is different at other sporting venues. For instance, at the SCG, Merivale now provides high-end dining options like Queen Chow and Vinnie's Pizza for fans. A recent visit to McDonald Jones Stadium during an NRL game revealed steep prices for food items, such as a seafood basket for $17.20, fish and chips for $16.20, and a classic beef pie for $6.60. Beverages like Stone & Wood Pacific Ales were priced at $13.80 per can.

The evolution of food offerings at various footy grounds reflects a departure from the traditional game-day experience that Swan remembers from his playing days.