Walking through the gates of Optus Stadium, our Year 11 Geography students stepped into a living example of how culture, community, and infrastructure come together. As part of their studies on football and culture, the tour offered a behind-the-scenes look at the role facilities like Optus play in bringing the game to life.
There were plenty of fascinating facts to take in. Students discovered that Optus Stadium has 18,000m² of grass and more than 1,000 TV screens spread throughout the venue. They also learnt that the developers took inspiration from the Dallas Cowboys when designing the locker rooms.
Looking ahead, Optus has some exciting plans for the Rugby World Cup in 2027, which will bring even more sporting history to Perth.
This excursion directly supported the ATAR Geography curriculum. Students have been examining football as an element of culture, and the tour showed how AFL influences Australian people, culture, and city development.
It was a valuable chance to see classroom concepts in action at one of Perth’s most advanced facilities.







A highlight of the day was seeing how engaged the students were. They asked thoughtful questions that linked their personal passion for AFL with their studies, showing real curiosity about the cultural impact of sport.
Frankie shared, “It was interesting to see the behind the scenes of how AFL works in Perth and at the stadium.”
Ashlee shared, “It was really fun to bond as a class outside of the classroom.”
From exploring the stadium’s hidden details to asking big questions about football’s cultural impact, the day gave students more than just knowledge, it gave them an experience they will remember every time they see the stadium on the Perth skyline.
Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.



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