AS WE head into 2026, the Bellarine is buzzing with energy.<\/p>\n
Our summer calendars are filling fast, but if you are still looking for ways to keep the family entertained these school holidays, there is no need to fret.<\/p>\n
Our region is playing host to a diverse lineup of events designed to engage all ages, celebrate community spirit, and get everyone outdoors.<\/p>\n
The action kicks off in Geelong with the return of the Festival of Sails from January 24 to 26. This iconic event transforms the waterfront into a vibrant celebration of sailing, live music and entertainment.<\/p>\n
Nab a beachside seat to watch the largest keelboat regatta in the Southern Hemisphere or take in the jam-packed entertainment program on shore.<\/p>\n
Visitors can enjoy multiple music stages, artisan markets, gourmet food, and roving performers. Keep your eyes on the skies for a fly-over by the Air Force Roulettes and stick around for the spectacular fireworks display lighting up the night.<\/p>\n
Closer to home, the Vic Open golf tournament returns to 13th Beach Golf Links January 15 to 18.<\/p>\n
This event is a local favourite because it is entirely free and family-friendly, with dogs welcome too! It is a brilliant opportunity to walk one of the region’s most beautiful courses while witnessing professional golfers at the top of their game.<\/p>\n
Beyond the fairways, the event village offers plenty of food, beverages, and child-friendly activations to keep the atmosphere lively.<\/p>\n
If you’re after some high intensity sport later in the month, the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race will descend on Greater Geelong January 28 to February 1.<\/p>\n
The UCI WorldTour Elite Women’s and Men’s races will feature on January 31 and February 1 respectively, giving spectators a front row seat to witness some of the best pro cyclists in the business.<\/p>\n
The peloton will make its way across the Bellarine, so we’re spoiled for choice when it comes to finding a vantage point to view the action.<\/p>\n
For families looking to get on the saddle this summer, the Family Ride on January 30 is a free, fun-filled event for kids, parents, and beginners to take part in the action.<\/p>\n
Held on a closed 2km circuit along the Geelong waterfront, it’s a safe and exciting way to get involved in the race weekend.<\/p>\n
If you prefer a slower pace, you don’t need to look further than our own backyard.<\/p>\n
The Bellarine Rail Trail and Bellarine Coastal Trail offer stunning, traffic-free routes for scenic walks or bike rides.<\/p>\n
Not sure where to begin? The Bellarine Bicycle User Group has put together a helpful guide. The Ride or Walk the Bellarine Map details a range of shared trails, road types, facilities and quiet backways worth exploring.<\/p>\n
To download the map, visit www.visitgeelongbellarine.com.au<\/p>\n
Finally, as the festive decorations come down, please be considerate of our beautiful local ecosystem.<\/p>\n
The Drysdale Resource Recovery Centre is helping residents dispose of real Christmas trees responsibly.<\/p>\n
Until the end of January, the centre is accepting up to two trees per household free of charge. These are transported to our green waste facility in Anakie and processed into nutrient-rich compost.<\/p>\n
It is a simple, effective way to ensure your holiday cheer contributes to our regional sustainability projects.<\/p>\n
As you prepare to head out on any of these adventures, remember to slip, slop, slap, and stay hydrated.<\/p>\n
Whether you are cheering from the sidelines or exploring a new trail, make the most of this beautiful summer on our wonderful peninsula.<\/p>\n
Cr Elise Wilkinson<\/p>\n
Connewarre Ward,<\/p>\n
City of Greater Geelong<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
AS WE head into 2026, the Bellarine is buzzing with energy. Our summer calendars are filling fast, but if you are still looking for ways to keep the family entertained these school holidays, there is no need to fret. Our region is playing host to a diverse lineup of events designed to engage all ages, […]<\/p>\n