The Geelong Cats and Kardinia Park Stadium Trust (KPST) have joined the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower global network to ensure they continue to create an inclusive and welcoming stadium.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower program encourages inclusivity, acceptance and understanding of people with a disability, condition or chronic illness that is not immediately obvious to others.
The Sunflower will be visible around the stadium, while Geelong Cats staff and players, as well as KPST staff, will complete additional training.
Becoming a Hidden Disabilities Sunflower-friendly organisation enhances the way the Club is able to engage with fans on match days by creating a more inclusive and supportive environment. Beyond match days, the initiative also strengthens the Club’s broader community and fan engagement, allowing it to better connect with and support individuals across all areas of the Club’s Cats Community programs.
Voluntarily wearing the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower lanyard or pin indicates that a person may need a little extra help, understanding or time due to their hidden disability or condition.
The Hidden Disabilities Sunflower is a welcome addition to a number of accessibility and inclusion initiatives already in place at GMHBA Stadium. In partnership with Kulture City, GMHBA Stadium has been a Sensory Inclusive accredited stadium since 2019. The stadium also offers sensory bags and weighted lap mats, editable social stories, a Sensory Play Area and a Sensory Zone with quiet space and a multi-sensory room.
Inclusion Officers are also available during events and offer an additional level of care and service to patrons, while the Geelong Cats offers an accessibility buggy service from two main entry points at the precinct. The buggy service facilitates safe drop-off, transit from the car parks and general assistance to those with mobility challenges get to the stadium gates.
The Stadium also has two Changing Places facilities accessible via MLAK key, a premium Parents Room and a Multi Faith Room with internal ablution facilities.
Geelong Cats Chief Operating Officer Marcus King said:
“We are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible matchday experience for all our members and fans at Geelong home games, as well as for those accessing the stadium on non-match days.
“This partnership reflects our Club’s commitment to accessibility and inclusivity and ensures our staff are equipped with the tools to be able to support those with non-visible disabilities and welcome them to GMHBA Stadium.”
Kardinia Park Stadium Trust CEO Gerard Griffin said:
“By adopting the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower, we’re not just enhancing accessibility—we’re fostering a stronger, more compassionate community.
“The Sunflower is a powerful reminder that inclusion starts with awareness and that we all just want to be seen and understood.
“Working together with the Geelong Football Club for a more inclusive stadium makes sense and I’m very proud of the way we’ve collaborated for the benefit of our community.”
Hidden Disability Sunflower Aus/NZ Head of Business Development Sandee Facy said:
“We are thrilled that the Geelong Football Club and Kardinia Park Stadium Trust have joined the globally recognised Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program, demonstrating their ongoing commitment to ensuring their stadium is accessible for all who wish to visit.
“Sunflower wearers with hidden disabilities will feel supported at Geelong Football Club and Kardinia Park Stadium when they are met with kindness, understanding and patience from the dedicated team of trained staff.”
