Organisers prioritise queue management after long wait times
For some tennis fans, news of Sunday’s long lines meant setting early alarms. Mel Sims and her daughter Liv were standing bright and early at the front of the line in Garden Square.
It’s already their third day in the tournament, as they head to the opening ceremony on Saturday and John Cain Arena on Sunday night.
Mel Sims and daughter Liv at the Australian Open.Credit: Gemma Grant
The duo woke up at 7 a.m. and got in line at 8:40 a.m., about 1.5 hours before the doors were scheduled to open to the public.
“It’s so beautiful here… there’s so much for everyone,” says Liv, who comes from Sydney and is attending her first Australian Open.
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Yvonne Hospedales was equally organized; He arrived at the Grand Slam Oval entrance an hour before opening time. While on holiday from the United States, he wanted to make the most of his only day at the tournament.
“I heard the lines are very long, so I came early… I pay extra to get in the express line whenever possible,” he said with a laugh.
Other attendees on Monday were bracing themselves for a long wait, but were pleasantly surprised to walk in with few problems.
Andrea and Rachel Thornley traveled from Brisbane to the Australian Open and entered the Garden Square gates shortly before noon.
They only waited about 30 minutes. “We moved very quickly considering the number of people,” Andrea said.
“Everything was under control. Everything was moving… The trolley attendants were telling us stories while we waited. They’re trying to keep it light,” Rachel agreed.
Tennis fans waiting to enter the area on Monday.Credit: EddieJim
Having arena tickets to Margaret Court by day and Rod Laver Arena by night, Andrea and Rachel were happy to be inside the gates and looking forward to an enjoyable day.
“I guess you would call us tennis tragics,” Andrea said with a laugh.
