The Gabba stadium in Brisbane is home to cricket in Queensland. It hosts domestic cricket matches such as Sheffield Shield and One Day Cup games, as well as international Test, ODI and T20 matches involving the Australian team. With its location in sunny Queensland, sun exposure is an important consideration for cricket fans attending a day match at The Gabba. Choosing the right seat location can ensure you avoid being baked by the sun during a long day watching cricket. This article examines the different stand locations at The Gabba and provides recommendations on the best seats for avoiding sun exposure.
Overview of the Stadium
The Gabba has a capacity of 42,000 spectators and is located in the inner-city suburb of Woolloongabba in Brisbane. The ground is oval shaped and is surrounded by four separate grandstands on each side of the field.
The four grandstands are:
– The Victor Trumper Stand
– The Don Bradman Stand
– The Noble, Bradman and Messenger Stands
– The Qld Bulls Grandstand
The Victor Trumper Stand
The Victor Trumper stand is located on the south-eastern side of the ground. It has a modern design and was rebuilt in 2006. The Victor Trumper stand has three tiers providing good elevation and views of the field.
The Don Bradman Stand
On the south-western side is the Don Bradman stand. It is an older stand with concrete terracing and exposed metal benches. The Don Bradman provides general admission ticketing options.
The Noble, Bradman and Messenger Stands
On the north-western side are the Noble, Bradman and Messenger stands. These are older style single tier stands running parallel to the pitch. The Messenger stand houses the team dressing rooms.
The Qld Bulls Grandstand
The newest addition is the Queensland Bulls Grandstand on the north-eastern side built in 2009. This modern stand has three tiers and upgraded corporate facilities.
Sun Movement at The Gabba
The sun’s path across The Gabba during the day has a significant impact on sun exposure in the different stand locations.
In the morning, the eastern stands (Victor Trumper and Qld Bulls) receive the most direct sun as the sun rises over the right arm of the field. The sun tracks across and by the middle of the day, the northern stands begin to receive more sun. In the afternoon, the sun starts to set across the left arm delivering more sun to the western stands (Don Bradman and Noble, Bradman, Messenger).
So the sun exposure situation changes quite dramatically from morning to afternoon at The Gabba.
Best Stands to Avoid the Sun
Here are some recommendations on the best stand locations for avoiding sun exposure during different times of day:
Morning Session
The western stands receive the most shade in the morning session before lunch.
– The Don Bradman stand offers general admission tickets and shade for most of the morning.
– The Noble, Bradman and Messenger stands also provide respite from the early sun. Sitting low down in the first few rows helps as well.
The Victor Trumper and Qld Bulls stands receive direct sun in the morning so are tougher locations early on.
Middle Session
As the sun moves higher in the sky, the northern stands start to bear the brunt of the sun’s rays during the middle session:
– The Qld Bulls Grandstand receives direct sunlight in the middle session except for small pockets along the front few lower rows.
– The Noble, Bradman and Messenger stands start getting sun along the higher back rows but the lower half remains shaded.
The southern stands provide better shade during the middle part of the day:
– The Don Bradman stand has good coverage, especially lower down nearer the front.
– The Victor Trumper is well shaded except for small higher patches of sun creeping in up the back.
So aim for the southern stands during the middle session for avoiding the sun.
Afternoon Session
In the afternoon session, the sun shifts towards the western side of the ground:
– The Noble, Bradman and Messenger stands receive direct sun in the afternoon, especially along the higher back rows. Only small pockets of shade remain.
– Parts of the Don Bradman terraces are exposed to sun late in the day. The northern half catches more sun on the terraces.
The eastern stands are now shaded for the evening session:
– The Qld Bulls Grandstand provides good shade in the afternoon along the lower front rows and middle sections.
– The Victor Trumper Stand also has extended shade on the bottom tiers in the afternoon.
So for the evening session, target tickets in the shade of the eastern stands.
Taking Shelter
If you end up with a seat in the full sun, where possible take shelter during breaks in play under shaded concourse areas. Seek out shade under entry ramps and walkways.
Consider bringing umbrella hats and sun shelters if you will be exposed. Wear hats and sunscreen for protection. Stay hydrated with drinks.
Also beware of reflective glare off the grandstand seats which can intensify sun exposure.
Conclusion
Picking the right part of the ground is important for avoiding the sun when watching cricket at The Gabba. Check the daily sun movement and select stands providing shade during your part of the day. The Don Bradman and Victor Trumper stands provide good options. Within stands, take lower seats towards the front rather than higher back rows. Seek shelter during breaks and protect yourself with hats, shade shelters, SPF and hydration. Considering sun angles at The Gabba will help you enjoy the cricket with less chance of getting baked!
| Session | Best Sun Protection Stands |
|---|---|
| Morning | Don Bradman, Noble/Bradman/Messenger (lower rows) |
| Middle | Don Bradman, Victor Trumper |
| Afternoon | Victor Trumper, Qld Bulls Grandstand |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the stand names at The Gabba?
The four grandstands at The Gabba are the Victor Trumper, Don Bradman, Noble/Bradman/Messenger, and Qld Bulls stands.
Which side gets the most sun in the morning?
The eastern stands – Victor Trumper and Qld Bulls – receive the most direct sunlight in the morning session.
Which stand has the most shade during the middle session?
The Don Bradman and lower sections of the Victor Trumper stand get the most shade during the middle part of the day.
Where does the sun set across at The Gabba?
In the afternoon, the sun sets across the left arm of the field which impacts the western Noble/Bradman/Messenger stands.
What can you bring to shelter from the sun?
Umbrellas, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, shade cloths/tents and protective clothing help shield you from sun exposure when seated. Stay hydrated with water.
Does seat colour impact sun exposure?
Yes, beware of reflective glare off the seats which can intensify sun exposure in some stands.