- MCG is making changes to the security system.
- It now has AI-powered weapon detectors.
- New technology will make entry faster
The MCG has undergone a major security upgrade ahead of the start of the AFL season, with football fans required to pass through AI-powered scanners before entering the ground.
Australia’s most famous sporting venue will become the first in the southern hemisphere to use the new AI-powered full-body weapons detectors.
The technology, already used at sporting events in the United States, will be used at every entrance to the ‘G and will speed up customer entry.
Other changes are also being made to the famous stadium, including a new food and drink service that will allow fans to purchase merchandise without having to queue or pay, and new turnstiles.
Richmond’s season opener against Carlton will be the first time the new technology has been used, and MCG boss Stuart Fox said the changes are here to stay.
Football fans must pass through AI-powered scanners before entering the MCG
The new technology, which was tested during recent Taylor Swift concerts, uses cameras, sensors and artificial intelligence to search for prohibited items and send the results to nearby security personnel.
“We want everyone to have the best possible experience when they come to the ‘G, so we’re always looking for new innovations to help improve this,” he told the Herald of the sun.
“We have invested in incredible cutting-edge technology that will set a new standard for safety, efficiency and convenience.”
The AI-powered screening comes from the company Evolv, which has screened hundreds and millions of Americans since the technology was launched in 2013.
The doors, which were tested during recent Taylor Swift concerts, use cameras, sensors and artificial intelligence to scan for prohibited items and then send the findings to security staff.
The non-contact detection system can scan up to 3,600 people per hour, much faster than traditional metal detectors.
“Technology has now met our expectations of how efficiently we can move 100,000 people through the gates and into the stadium,” said Josh Eltringham, MCG Headquarters and Events Director.
New gates will greatly speed up entry to the Melbourne Cricket Ground
The scanners are used at many sporting events in the United States and have proven to be a success.
MCG management says there are no health risks in walking through the new gates, and if fans have any concerns they can use traditional metal detectors.
“The introduction of the Evolv system is a testament to our continued commitment to providing the safest possible environment for all event attendees at this stadium while improving their overall experience, starting with a more efficient entry process,” he said. Mr. Fox.
