Located on the northern beaches in Sydney, the Brookvale Oval is one of New South Wales’s most iconic professional sports stadiums.
Home to the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles rugby league team, this historic stadium has witnessed countless memorable moments and accommodated thousands of passionate fans over the years.
Established over 110 years ago, the stadium is an integral part of the local Brookvale community and is much loved for its central location, modern facilities and infectious atmosphere.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the venue to discover why it holds a special place in the hearts of rugby league fans and the local community alike.
About the Stadium
Situated in the suburb of Brookvale, the Brookvale Oval is a modern rectangular stadium with a capacity of 18,000 seats.
Originally opened in 1911, the ground has been redeveloped and updated several times since then, with the latest works taking place in 2022 when the Bob Fulton Stand was opened.
Overall, the stadium has four grandstands. They include the iconic Lyons-Menzies Stand, which is situated at the southern end of the ground and named after Cliff Lyons and Steve Menzies. Both of which were former champion Manly players.
The largest of the grandstands is the Jane Try Stand which runs along the western side of the stadium. While over in the south-west corner is the Ken Arthurson stand, which is named after the club’s long-serving administrator and features corporate boxes.
At the northern end, the Bob Fulton Stand is the newest of them. A 3000-seater area, it includes Manly’s Centre of Excellence and was opened in 2022.
On the eastern side of the ground resides a lush grassy hill which accommodates a video screen scoreboard and the main floodlights.
What Sports are Played at the Stadium?
The main sport played at the Brookvale Oval is NRL.
It is the home ground of the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles rugby league who initially played here between 1947 and 1999.
After a 4 year hiatus, they have been in residence since 2003.
What Other Sports Have Been Played There?
As well as rugby league, the Brookvale Oval is the home ground of the North Harbour Rays, who have used it as their home ground in the National Rugby Championship since 2014.
Additionally, in 2019 the NSW Waratahs played their opening game of the season in Super Rugby competition against the Hurricanes.
In 2014, the Central Coast Mariners were due to play a home game in the A-League at the ground. However, this did not eventuate due to the pitch not being deemed up to the required standard for the competition.
Other Events
In the 1920s, the park was a showground that actually held the Brookvale Show. Over the years, more than 50 annual shows took place here, which featured ring and trotting events.
It was also used to celebrate Arbor Day between 1919 and 1928, as well as for Empire Day picnics and school sports days. Congruently, some local bands practiced in its pavilions and regular church services were also held there too.
Naming Rights
Unlike other stadiums that had naming rights deals in place much earlier, Brookvale Oval got its first in 2017 when it was known as Lottoland.
In June 2021, it officially became known as 4 Pines Park after the stadium agreed a partnership with the popular brewery.
Facilities
The Brookvale Oval is an accomplished stadium that offers a good range of facilities and amenities for spectators to enjoy.
It features multiple grandstands surrounding the playing field, which provide excellent views of the action. These grandstands offer comfortable seating for spectators, ensuring an enjoyable viewing experience. The venue also has floodlights to allow for night games to be played, as well as a big electronic scoreboard that keeps spectators informed about the current score, time remaining, and other essential match information.
For those seeking a premium spectating experience, the stadium offers corporate boxes. These private suites provide a luxurious setting for entertaining guests while enjoying the game. They typically offer comfortable seating, catering services, and a dedicated host to cater to the needs of the occupants.
Within the ground, there are also several toilet facilities available, including those with disability access. There are also merchandise stands where fans can show their support for the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles by purchasing team merchandise like jerseys, hats and scarves, which will help them demonstrate their allegiance to the club.
The stadium also has dedicated first aid facilities for spectators who may require it during the game.
How to get to the stadium
Overall, getting to Brookvale Oval is relatively easy.
The stadium is approximately 16 kilometres northeast of the Sydney CBD. So, if you are travelling by car, you can use Pittwater Road (A8) or Condamine Street to reach the stadium. While there are parking facilities available onsite, it is advisable to arrive early as they might be hard to find during match day.
For this reason, it might be easier to take public transport. Thankfully the stadium is well served by public transportation, as you can use buses operated by Transport for NSW to get to it. Several bus routes service the area, including routes 136, 139, and E41. Most of them stop near the stadium, making it easy to access on foot from them. The atmosphere is often good on the buses as well among sports fans.
If you would rather not take public transport, you can always catch a taxi or Uber, which will drop you off at specific zones around the stadium.
Food Options
When watching a match at the Brookvale Oval, there are several in-ground food options available.
They include a number of concession stands which offer classic stadium fare. These stands typically serve favourites such as hot dogs, hamburgers, popcorn, nachos and pretzels, providing quick and easy options for a snack or a quick bite while enjoying the game.
In addition, you’ll also find several other food outlets which offer varied options for meals, including pizzas, fish and chips, sandwiches, salads and wraps. Most of these outlets have choices for those with dietary requirements, including vegan, vegetarianism, gluten-free and dairy-free cuisine.
To support their food option, the stadium has several bars and beverage stations scattered throughout. They offer beer, soft drinks, bottled water, energy drinks, and other refreshments to keep you hydrated throughout the event.
For those in need of a caffeine fix or a sweet treat, there are coffee stands and snack counters where you can indulge in a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea. Additionally, you can find a selection of snacks such as pastries, cookies, and ice cream to satisfy your cravings or enjoy a quick pick-me-up.
Food Policy
Due to the food, they offer within the ground, the Brookvale Oval operates a ‘No Commercial Food Policy’.
Essentially, this means that you are not allowed to bring any food into the stadium with commercial packaging or branding.
You are, however, allowed to bring food that comes in non-branded and shatterproof packaging, including Tupperware and resealable bags. This might include sandwiches, fruit, chocolates, lollies, biscuits, cakes and homemade food like pasta salad.
Accommodation near the ground
Should you need a place to stay to watch a match at the Brookvale Oval, several options are available.
Many sports fans opt to stay at the Novotel Sydney Manly Pacific, a beachfront hotel in Manly that offers stunning ocean views. Just a 10-minute drive from the stadium, it also features comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool, a fitness centre, and on-site dining options.
Also, in Manly, The Manly Lodge Boutique Hotel offers affordable and stylish accommodations to sports fans. It features well-appointed rooms with modern amenities, a shared lounge area, and a communal kitchen. The hotel is within walking distance of Manly’s vibrant dining and entertainment precinct, so it provides you with a good bass to enjoy its evening entertainment.
At the same time, Quest Manly is a very good option for those wanting self-contained serviced apartments that offer more space and flexibility. The apartments feature kitchenettes or full kitchens, separate living areas, and on-site laundry facilities.
If you would rather stay in Brookvale itself, the Travelodge Hotel Manly Warringah Sydney is a good option. It provides easy access to the stadium and presents comfortable rooms with modern amenities, including free Wi-Fi and an on-site restaurant. So it is a great option for those seeking convenience and a comfortable stay near the ground.
Good pubs to visit
If you are looking for a good pub to enjoy a pre or post-match beer, several options are available to you near Brookvale Oval. All of them offer a lively atmosphere, a wide selection of drinks, and often delicious food options.
One of the most popular options is The Brookvale Hotel. Located just a short walk from Brookvale Oval, this property is a regular among sports fans. Its spacious beer garden, multiple bars, and large screens for sporting events provide an ideal setting to get excited for a match or celebrate or commiserate a win or loss for your team. The pub also offers a bistro serving a range of meals, including pub classics and modern dishes.
Another good option is The Old Manly Boatshed. A unique pub, it is situated in nearby Manly and combines stunning waterfront views with a relaxed atmosphere. The historic venue offers indoor and outdoor seating, making it an excellent choice for those wanting a refreshing drink while taking in the beautiful surroundings. The pub features a variety of beers on tap and a menu that includes seafood, burgers, and other delicious fare.
Also in Manly, The Ivanhoe Hotel is a vibrant pub known for its live music, sports screenings, and bustling atmosphere. It caters to a diverse crowd with multiple bars, a beer garden, and an outdoor terrace. The
pub offers a wide range of drinks, including craft beers and creative cocktails and has a menu featuring classic favourites and international dishes.
You might also want to try the Dee Why Hotel too. It’s a popular establishment in the neighbouring suburb of the same name that offers a relaxed and welcoming ambience. This pub features a variety of bars, outdoor seating, and regular live entertainment. Visitors can enjoy a wide selection of drinks, from craft beers to cocktails, and indulge in tasty gastro-pub-style meals.
Quick Stats
Address: Pittwater Road, Brookvale, New South Wales 2100
Capacity: 18,000
Opened: 1911
Construction Cost: Not Recorded
Field Size: Not Recorded
Surface Type: Kikuyu Grass
Record attendance: 27,655 (Manly vs Parramatta, 31 August 1986)