The extraordinary Melbourne Cricket Ground—popularly “The People’s Ground”—is the inspiration for this conference. This acknowledges that heritage is for and about people and community. Whilst place is central to conceptions of heritage, is it not intangible values—stories, memories, connections, emotions—that reveal and sustain our heritage?

The MCG is included on the National Heritage List, although its continual evolution means that most of the fabric is barely thirty years old. It has shared Aboriginal and non-Indigenous heritage values, and a prominent history to match its location in the landscape of the Yarra River.

'The significance of the MCG extends far beyond that of a mere sports stadium. It is an integral part of the fabric of Melbourne and the nation, and has gained an egalitarian image as “the people’s ground".' (MCG National Heritage List Citation)

Join Australian and international experts this October at The People’s Ground for a once in a century gathering.