Lake Oval

Lake Oval is a sports stadium in Victoria with an eight-lane running track and a FIFA-standard natural grass field, surrounded by a heritage grandstand dating to 1926. The venue accommodates around 7,400 spectators and houses the Victorian Institute of Sport in its restored facilities.

The site served as home to South Melbourne Football Club from 1878 until 1982, hosting countless matches during that era. In the 1990s, the field was transformed from a cricket oval into a soccer field, marking a turning point in the sporting history of Melbourne.

The oval has played a significant role in Melbourne's soccer culture and serves as a gathering place for players and spectators today. The restored 1926 grandstand still reflects its period character, while the grounds see regular use from athletes and visitors who experience its sporting legacy firsthand.

The grounds feature a six-lane warm-up track and various training facilities for athletes of all levels. Visitors can follow events using the modern video scoreboard and broadcast lighting, making it easy to navigate the venue from multiple entry points.

A statue on the stadium grounds honors Peter Norman, who played a significant role during the 1968 Olympics. The statue recognizes his courage in standing against injustice, making him a notable figure in sporting history.