Officers noted the registration details of many vehicles, but the council said they were "on hand to monitor safety and vehicular access issues''.

Hawthorn supporter and Upwey resident Colleen Vanderlaak

said that if she received a fine later in the mail, she would refuse to pay it.

"There were no signs anywhere. It was ridiculous because there were so many cars everywhere and it's a family day - where were we meant to park?''

Hawthorn Football Club spokesman Clinton Bown said the club had heavily promoted parking arrangements for about a week in advance.

The arrangements included free parking at Monash University and free shuttle buses from the university and Glen Waverley railway station.

"Thousands of people utilised the buses, but some people have obviously taken their chances,'' Bown said.

Mayor Paul Klisaris said the council anticipated thousands of Hawthorn fans would be at the ground.

"Three council officers were on hand to monitor safety and vehicular access issues.

"Only two parking infringements and one caution were issued in the streets surrounding Waverley Park.''