Airshow showcases Geelong

AUSTRALIA’S largest aviation event has soared into Greater Geelong with Avalon Australian International Airshow open to the public this weekend.

This world-class event draws aviation enthusiasts, industry pioneers and leaders of manufacturing innovation to Greater Geelong for a jam-packed program boasting nail-biting aerial displays and top tier exhibitions.

The 16th iteration of the Airshow welcomes 902 exhibitor organisations from 28 nations, now spread across four exhibition halls – the largest program in the event’s history.

Around 350 aircraft will be on display, with 45 different kinds of aircraft taking off for exhilarating flying displays.

The Airshow is truly a highlight of our events calendar, and as Economic Development Chair, I’m particularly focused on the significant benefits it brings to the region, beyond the splendour in the skies.

Attracting 250,000 attendees, many from afar, this event injects $24 million directly into Greater Geelong’s local economy, supporting our hospitality and tourism sectors.

This is a brilliant opportunity to showcase all that our beautiful region has to offer to interstate travellers and international delegations.

We anticipate an impressive 290 delegations from 32 nations will descend on Geelong throughout the week, offering an unparallelled opportunity to highlight our local manufacturing and industry innovation on the global stage.

Geelong is leading Australia in gross regional product and job growth. So, this week provides us with the perfect opportunity to showcase not only our natural wonders here at home, but all the advantages of living and working in the region.

Prior to the public program, the Airshow hosted Australia’s largest industry trade show throughout the week.

The City is proud to have teamed up with Deakin University to host a trade stall highlighting key manufacturing and industry innovators from across the region.

We partnered with local organisations, Air Radiators, KPMG, Avalon Airport, GMS Composites, The Gordon TAFE and RAPP Australia, to facilitate conversations and promote their capabilities.

It was a pleasure to see our homegrown talent rubbing shoulders with key decision makers from across the globe.

The trade show really reinforced our reputation as a strong advanced manufacturing hub, and I look forward to seeing the long-lasting benefits that this week brings to our region.

If you aren’t planning on heading out to the Airshow, there is still an opportunity to witness the action at home here in the Bellarine.

We are fortunate to live in a flyover zone and will have the chance to witness many kinds of aircraft as they zoom over towards Avalon.

You’ll likely hear some of these aircraft before you see them – so keep your ears and eyes open!

Cr Trent Sullivan

Leopold Ward, City of Greater Geelong