Bellarine shares in Geelong’s growth surge

OVER the past few months there has been a lot of discussion about growth across the Geelong region and what our future may look like.

The good news is, we’re looking to be in a very strong position.

The recently released Invest Geelong prospectus highlights Geelong’s success stories, priority growth sectors and emerging investment opportunities.

From my perspective as Chair of Council’s Economic Development portfolio, Geelong is building real momentum, and importantly, that momentum is also being felt across the Bellarine.

In recent years, jobs have grown faster than our population and there is a multi-billion-dollar investment pipeline reshaping our region.

The Invest Geelong prospectus highlights a thriving visitor economy that attracts 6.4 million visitors to the region, spending $1.7 billion and creating more than 12,700 jobs.

It also emphasises agribusiness and food and business production creating more than $430 million in value for the local economy.

Across other sectors, we are seeing strong performance in advanced manufacturing, health, defence, clean energy and the creative and digital industries.

That kind of coordinated approach is what gives Geelong a competitive edge and makes it an attractive place for investment.

On the Bellarine, we are already seeing this investment, through many major projects either underway or nearing completion across the region.

One of the biggest developments currently underway is Stage 2 of the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre in Drysdale and when complete will deliver a much-anticipated indoor pool, as well as fitness facilities and improved accessibility for the community.

Stage 2 of the Drysdale Sports Precinct upgrade is also well advanced, providing new sporting infrastructure to support a rapidly growing population.

At Wallington Reserve, the existing pavilion is being upgraded into a more modern, all-abilities facility that better serves the community who use it.

These are the kinds of investments that do not always make headlines, but they make a real difference to how people live, connect and stay active.

The Ocean Grove District Ride Centre at Kingston Park has captured a lot of attention lately and there is a genuine buzz building in the community about the opening.

When finished, the centre will offer tracks for riders of all ages and skill levels, while also attracting enthusiasts from around Victoria as well as interstate.

Lots of people are asking when it’ll be finished and I can confirm the works are in their final stages and are expected to be completed mid-year.

Projects like this show how economic development is not just about attracting investment but also about delivering outcomes that communities can enjoy.

The Invest Geelong prospectus makes clear we are entering a period of continued growth driven by population, business expansion and infrastructure investment.

For our region, that brings opportunity, but also a responsibility to make sure growth is planned carefully and shared across our communities.

On the Bellarine, that means continuing to back projects that support local jobs, strengthen our visitor economy and improve the facilities people rely on every day.

There is no doubt the momentum is there, and the focus now is making sure it delivers lasting benefits for our community.

To read the full prospectus as well as find out about support available to business, visit geelongaustralia.com.au/business

Cr Trent Sullivan

Leopold ward, City of Greater Geelong