The MCG has been included on the the National Heritage List - in recognition of its outstanding significance to the nation. Practically a sacred site in Melbourne, “The ‘G” is the birthplace of Aussie Rules, it has hosted the Olympics, the Pope and has been the home of cricket in Australia since it was first introduced from England.

However the listing only applies to the ground and not its buildings. Besides some grass (itself replaced seasonally), there is actually nothing left of what was once the MCG. The listing couldn’t save either the 1928 Members Pavillion and its famous Long Room from recent demolition, Australia’s first National Sporting Museum building or the stand built for the 1956 Summer Olympic Games.