Passionate Geelong and Brisbane fans cheer on their premiership teams at grand final eve parade at MCG!

 

Melbourne is buzzing with excitement as Brisbane and Geelong fans flock to Melbourne Park for the traditional AFL grand final parade.

Both clubs are familiar with the big stage — Geelong lifted the premiership trophy in 2022, while Brisbane claimed the title last year. But Saturday marks history: it will be the first time the Lions and Cats face off in a grand final since the VFL/AFL began.

The teams already had a taste of each other’s finals pressure earlier this month, with Geelong taking the win in the opening round.

For fans, the build-up is personal. One Geelong supporter said he hadn’t missed a game all year.

“It’s been 20 years since I moved to Australia and footy was the first sport I fell in love with,” he said. “It runs in our blood — it’s like a religion.”

Another Cats fan was brimming with confidence ahead of Saturday’s clash.

“If the boys play like they did last week, we’ll be fine,” he said.

Meanwhile, Lions fans have flown in from Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and Perth to be part of the celebrations.

“I’m still croaky from cheering last week when we beat Collingwood,” one fan laughed. “Here we go — back-to-back Brisbane Lions!”

Others remain equally hopeful. “I was here in 2023 when we lost to the Pies, so I’m looking forward to a win this time,” a supporter said.

The parade also unveiled the 2025 AFL Premiership Cup and final team lists to the thousands gathered outside the MCG. Brisbane will be without Jarrod Berry, who withdrew after a shoulder injury in the preliminary final.

Lions co-captain Lachie Neale admitted it had been a turbulent lead-up.

“I wasn’t even sure I’d make it onto the field with the injury concerns,” he told fans.

Geelong captain Patrick Dangerfield described the week as both “special and nerve-filled,” thanking fans for their support.

Brisbane’s Josh Dunkley paid tribute to Berry’s sacrifice:

“I get emotional thinking about it. There are plenty of players who would push through, but he put the team first.”

Will Ashcroft spoke of the joy of running out alongside his brother Levi.

“Last year he was watching from the stands. For him to be playing this time is very exciting for our family,” he said.

For Geelong, the excitement is palpable. Forward Ollie Dempsey said he was eager to embrace the moment.

“You work so hard to get here, so you’ve got to enjoy it,” he said. “I’ve been waking up early all week just buzzing to get out there.”

Defender Mark Blicavs admitted some nerves had crept in, but said the team was ready.

“It’s an honour to still be here at this stage of the season. One game to go — we’re prepared and ready.”

The 2025 AFL grand final kicks off at 2:30pm (AEST) on Saturday.