Supporting our growing community

IT HAS been a busy time on Council in the lead up to us finalising the 2024-25 budget at our June meeting.

Following an extensive community consultation process, we made several significant additions to April’s draft budget, reflecting the needs and feedback of our residents.

This included allocating an extra $423,000 to ensure the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre pool is open during Winter.

Over the past decade, Greater Geelong has grown remarkably, boasting the fastest population growth in Victoria and one of the fastest in Australia.

In response to this rapid development, Council is investing heavily in infrastructure, with plans to spend $752.6 million on capital projects over the next four years.

This substantial investment aims to support our growing community and enhance the region’s liveability, and I am pleased to report that the Bellarine Ward will see major benefits.

The second stage of the Drysdale Sporting Precinct will see an investment of $6.61 million in 2024-25 and $2.82 million in 2025-26.

Meanwhile, Devlins Road Reserve will benefit from nearly $8 million in upgrades before 2027, including a new pavilion, sports fields, and lighting.

Ocean Grove’s Kingston Park will also receive $3.5 million for a new bike track with jumps, and Portarlington Recreation Reserve will receive $3.55 million in 2024-25 for upgrades.

Further cementing our firm commitment to providing high-quality outdoor spaces across the Bellarine, Wallington Reserve will receive almost $3.5 million before 2026 to contribute to the redevelopment of the sports pavilion, upgrade public toilets and improve car parking.

Beyond these capital works, the budget reflects Council’s role in fostering community projects, driving environmental sustainability, supporting small businesses and hospitality venues, and boosting our arts and culture venues and libraries.

Financial sustainability remains at the core of this budget, evidenced by a forecasted operating surplus of $1.514 million.

This budget lays a sustainable foundation for future growth, ensuring Greater Geelong remains a vibrant and liveable region for years to come.

One event that showcases our vibrancy is Tastes of Greater Geelong.

More than 100 businesses and venues are involved in events happening across our region, and this year’s program is the largest yet.

Proudly showcasing the best food, drink, and hospitality our region has to offer is just one way Council is committed to supporting local hospitality.

We understand – with cost-of-living pressures – that many in the industry are doing it tough, and we hope that this festival will provide a welcome boost in the winter months.

There are many standout events, including Masterchef alumni, plant-based cook, and sustainability advocate Simon Toohey, who will take a select group of guests on an exclusive farm-to-table experience at The Paddock in Leopold.

Across the Bellarine, we have VIP wine and dine experiences, voyages across Port Phillip Bay in search of mouth-watering mussels, and dozens of venues getting involved with unique events and special menus.

There are many highlights around the area, but if you’re looking for something extra special, you could book in for the ‘Oakdene Winemaker Weekend’ at the Portarlington Grand Hotel.

The weekend includes a two-night stay at the hotel plus a sumptuous five-course dinner expertly paired with wines from Oakdene Vineyard, the freshly minted winners of the Premier’s Trophy for Best Wine at the Victorian Wine Show.

Tastes of Greater Geelong runs until Sunday 14 July, and with so much on offer, I encourage you all to discover and savour our beautiful region’s unique flavours and culinary delights.

Explore our exciting program at geelong.link/tastes2024, or pick up a free printed guide at any event host venue.

Cr Elise Wilkinson

Bellarine Ward

City of Greater Geelong