NYAAL Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre is one of the most significant developments in our region’s recent history.<\/p>\n
Which is why I was thrilled to attend an end-of-construction tour of this venue as council’s economic development portfolio chair last week.<\/p>\n
Standing inside the finished building, it was impossible not to feel a sense of excitement about what lies ahead for Geelong.<\/p>\n
After years of planning, investment and construction, this landmark facility is ready to open its doors in July \u2013 and the momentum is already building.<\/p>\n
More than 50 events have been secured for the centre, with at least 21,800 delegates expected to attend from across Australia and beyond.<\/p>\n
Together, they are projected to generate about $13 million in economic value for our region through spending on accommodation, dining and local attractions.<\/p>\n
One highlight already confirmed is the 2026 Australian Tourism Awards, secured through a joint effort between the Victorian government, Visit Victoria, the City of Greater Geelong, Tourism Greater Geelong and The Bellarine, and the Victorian Convention and Event Trust.<\/p>\n
It’s a fitting showcase for a venue designed to put our region on map.<\/p>\n
The facility itself is remarkable. Nyaal Banyul features 3,700 square metres of flexible event space, a 1,000-seat theatre and cutting-edge audiovisual technology capable of hosting everything from major conventions and exhibitions to performances and community events.<\/p>\n
But the impact of this project has already begun long before the first delegate arrives.<\/p>\n
During construction, more than 1,400 jobs were created and 250 apprentices were trained. Over the two-year build, more than 70 local businesses were engaged by head contractor Built, showcasing the strength of Geelong’s manufacturing and construction sectors.<\/p>\n
Importantly, the project also supported residents facing employment barriers through its social procurement program, creating more than 40 apprenticeship opportunities.<\/p>\n
Projects like this demonstrate what can happen when all three levels of government work together.<\/p>\n
Delivered through the Geelong City Deal \u2013 a $676 million partnership between the Australian government, Victorian government and the City of Greater Geelong \u2013 the convention centre represents a shared commitment to investing in our region’s future.<\/p>\n
And that future is bright.<\/p>\n
Our population is projected to surpass 400,000 by 2041, and our region is rapidly evolving into a self-sustaining economic hub. A thriving central business district will be critical to that growth.<\/p>\n
While our CBD faces challenges, there are also signs of transformation everywhere you look.<\/p>\n
Cranes fill the skyline, new developments are rising, and we are working hard to activate underused spaces with events and attractions that bring people into the heart of the city.<\/p>\n
Initiatives like the Geelong City Market are already drawing thousands of visitors, while events such as ROAM Geelong, the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race, the Festival of Sails and the Geelong Revival continue to energise our cultural and waterfront precincts.<\/p>\n
Nyaal Banyul will take that momentum to another level.<\/p>\n
It stands not just as a striking new building on our waterfront, but as a symbol of confidence in Geelong’s future. A place where ideas will be shared, partnerships formed and opportunities created.<\/p>\n
Most importantly, it sends a clear message to the world: Geelong is ready. Ready to welcome visitors, ready to showcase our innovation and hospitality, and ready to build a vibrant CBD and region that will thrive for generations to come.<\/p>\n
Cr Trent Sullivan<\/p>\n
Leopold Ward,<\/p>\n
City of Greater Geelong<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
NYAAL Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre is one of the most significant developments in our region’s recent history. Which is why I was thrilled to attend an end-of-construction tour of this venue as council’s economic development portfolio chair last week. Standing inside the finished building, it was impossible not to feel a sense of […]<\/p>\n