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Cricket fans heading to the Gabba for Australia’s Ashes showdown with England are being urged to drink sensibly, stay sun-safe – and not go barmy on their way home.
The public emergency department at Mater Hospital Brisbane is less than 1km from the Gabba and typically sees a spike in presentations after major Test and international one-day matches.
Mater Hospital Brisbane General Manager Luke Worth said the emergency department would be on stand-by to deal with patients who may be intoxicated, sunburned or dehydrated throughout the Test.
Medics are also encouraging fans who have been drinking alcohol to avoid using e-scooters when they leave the stadium.
The 42,000 capacity Gabba stadium is already sold out for the first three days of the Ashes Test.
“The Gabba hosts a lot of sporting events, but a Test match with England is not like a Lions game,” Mr Worth said.
“You have tens of thousands of fans in the ground for around eight hours, many of whom may be sat in the sun for long periods and some of whom may be having more than a few drinks.
“Based on previous experience, we expect to see patients coming in who are intoxicated or dehydrated, or who have suffered heat-related issues and minor trauma injuries.
“We also regularly see patients who injure themselves in e-scooter accidents, which can cause serious injuries.
“Mater is encouraging cricket supporters to stay sunsmart, stay hydrated – not just with alcohol – and to choose their mode of transport wisely when leaving the ground.”
The Mater Hospital Brisbane emergency department typically treats around 140 patients a day, around 60-65 of whom are transported to Raymond Terrace by Queensland Ambulance Service.
Patients can also seek treatment at the Mater Private Emergency Department at 301 Vulture Street.
