Maroons Carnival 2026: The Battle of the Maroons Returns to Melbourne
On Saturday, 28th March 2026, Livingston Rec Reserve in Cranbourne East turned maroon and gold as the iconic Ananda vs Nalanda rivalry returned for the Battle of the Maroons, bigger and better than ever. Maroons Carnival 2026 was a full day of cricket, rugby, motors, music, and community spirit.
The Main Event: Ananda vs Nalanda
The men’s cricket match was, as always, the heart of the day. Two schools, one rivalry, and a ground packed with families in their colours. The papare band, the DJ, and the crowd kept the energy going from the first ball to the last.
A Full Programme
Alongside the main event, the carnival featured the Women’s Quadrangular between Musaeus, Gothami, Devi, and Visakha, a kids cricket match where the future stars took the field, and a rugby match full of power, pride, and passion.
Performance Motor Fest
New for 2026, the Performance Motor Fest lined up supercars, vintage classics, Harleys, and performance bikes from the community. Thank you to Mili and Sanjeewa for coordinating the vehicle registrations and to every owner who brought their pride and joy along.
Thank You to Our Sponsors and Supporters
Our sincere thanks to Team Vinu Udawatta and Ray White Ferntree Gully, proud sponsors of the event and of the raffle, and to every food and merchandise stall holder who helped keep the crowd fed and in colours all day.
Event Highlights
Date: Saturday, 28th March 2026
Venue: Livingston Rec Reserve, 45 Parkhurst Dr, Cranbourne East VIC 3977
Men’s Cricket: Ananda vs Nalanda, Battle of the Maroons
Women’s Quadrangular: Musaeus | Gothami | Devi | Visakha
Also: Kids Cricket Match, Rugby Match, Performance Motor Fest
Entertainment: Papare, DJ, food and merchandise stalls
Looking Ahead
To everyone who wore their colours, brought their family, and was part of the atmosphere: thank you. The Battle of the Maroons is more than a match, it is a homecoming for our community in Melbourne, and we look forward to seeing you all again next year.
