Melburnians are being invited to suggest landmarks, streets, and even game pieces for a unique Melbourne edition of the classic board game Monopoly.
The campaign was launched on the banks of the Yarra beside that other great local monopoly, Crown Casino, by the city’s lord mayor, Robert Doyle.
“As the world’s most liveable city, Melbourne deserves to be recognised in the world’s most famous game,” Doyle said, accompanied by Monopoly’s behatted mascot, Rich Uncle Pennybags.
Paper money was tossed in the air as Doyle became the first person to like the campaign’s Facebook page, where residents will be invited to choose uniquely Melburnian sites and symbols for the game’s 22 streets and stations.
Seagulls descended on the colourful cash and waddled away disappointed. Residents may feel the same way: their choices on the Facebook page will be merely “suggestions”, with the final decision to be made by the game’s manufacturer.
“It’s not a vote … ultimately Mr Monopoly will decide what goes on the board,” it was clarified.
Some squares have already been filled by sponsors, but ritzy Mayfair will be up for grabs. Doyle suggested Collins Street, the site of Melbourne town hall and his mayoral headquarters.
He wouldn’t be drawn on what unfortunate site will take the spot of dreary Old Kent Road. That “edgy” position could be taken by the city’s revitalised laneways, he said.
“The one square I’d have some difficulty filling is the free parking square,” Doyle added.
Six “quintessentially Melbourne objects” will replace the metal top hat, thimble, dog or boot used to navigate the game board. An Aussie rules football, a coffee cup and a tram are early contenders.
The city’s train stations will feature on the board, and even the community chest and chance cards will reflect the city’s sights and culture.
Property prices will be largely modelled on the original Hasbro game, giving Melburnians under 45 the chance to experience owning property in their home city.
Suggestions will be taken until 30 April, with the game expected to be released in late October.
