Looking back on a memorable 2025

AS THE year draws to a close, I have been thinking about the many things that made 2025 such a memorable one for our region.

Major events played a big role, delivering an impressive $93 million boost to the local economy and drawing 499,000 people to 12 major events sponsored by Council.

With 91 per cent offering free community access, these events continue to show their value for residents, visitors and local businesses.

The Avalon Australian International Airshow, Festival of Sails and the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race all attracted significant crowds and reinforced our region’s reputation for hosting world class events.

We also saw the inaugural ROAM Geelong draw more than 16,000 people and deliver $2.3 million in economic return, including many visitors staying overnight and exploring the Bellarine.

Run4Geelong reached new heights too, with 6,750 participants raising $323,000 for Barwon Health, and it was inspiring to see so many people come together to support an organisation that does so much for our community.

Arts and culture made their mark this year, with the Archibald Prize drawing strong attendance, and the National Wool Museum has just opened the globally recognised Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition.

Environmental progress remained front and centre, especially here on the Bellarine where the Dell Eco Reef and Ramblers Reef have continued to outperform expectations in shoreline protection, habitat creation and marine restoration.

We also planted more than 2,500 trees and 3,500 tube stock across the municipality and strengthened our commitment to environmental stewardship through community partnerships and ongoing research.

Our 2024–25 Annual Report highlighted a year of investment and stability, including $139.3 million in capital works across community facilities, open spaces, roads and major infrastructure.

Locally, we have seen construction begin on the indoor facility at the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre, supported by $20 million each from the Australian and Victorian governments, along with a Council contribution.

Building works have also commenced on the $3.5 million Ocean Grove District Ride Centre, which has been shaped by strong community feedback from the very beginning.

Here on the Bellarine our farming community remains one of our greatest strengths.

I remain grateful for the resilience and innovation of our local farmers, who manage long hours, complex logistics and seasonal challenges to feed not only our region but communities far beyond it.

Agribusiness and agritourism continue to be vital to the local economy and the new Environment and Circular Economy Advisory Committee will include strong farming voices to guide future decision-making.

Council has also continued to back practical support for primary producers, including work with Barwon Water on essential infrastructure and advocacy opposing the newly introduced Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund levy.

Our Youth Council has again shown its value, offering thoughtful recommendations on transport, wellbeing, participation and youth leadership, and reminding us how important it is to give young people genuine opportunities to shape their future.

As summer arrives, City crews have been working across our Bellarine towns to make sure our busiest streets are clean, safe and welcoming for locals and visitors.

Thank you for the community spirit you bring to this beautiful part of the world.

I wish you and your families a safe, happy and restful festive season and look forward to seeing you out and about across the Bellarine this summer.

Cr Rowan Story

Murradoc Ward,

City of Greater Geelong