Overnight visitors driving city’s economy

NEW data from the City of Greater Geelong suggests the population of the municipality’s bayside towns could triple during peak times, which could significantly boost the local economy.

According to its Peak Overnight Population study, the city estimates the Barwon region’s population could jump by 50 per cent to more than 575,000 people during holiday periods and major events.

The total overnight population for Greater Geelong and the Borough of Queenscliffe in holiday homes, caravan parks, hotels, motels and guest accommodation could swell to more than 400,000, while the Bellarine Peninsula’s permanent population could more than double to 66,550.

According to Tourism Greater Geelong and The Bellarine’s new Sustainable Destination Master Plan, the visitor economy has a bright future.

The data estimates the region’s visitor economy will be worth up to $2.1 billion annually over the next decade.

Insights from Tourism Research Australia suggest 6.2 million people have already visited Greater Geelong and the Bellarine area this year.

The popularity of the region continues to positively affect employment and the hospitality, tourism, retail and cultural sectors since the end of COVID restrictions.

Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan said the new data reflected the importance of the visitor economy to Greater Geelong and the Bellarine.

“Our region is a premier tourist and major event destination for people of all ages and backgrounds with exciting attractions, experiences and local businesses to explore at your doorstep.

“Greater Geelong has a vast range of quality accommodation providers suiting all budgets in prominent and hidden locations, and work continues across the region to ensure future accommodation demands will be met.

“The Spirit of Tasmania and the redeveloped Geelong Arts Centre have opened up a new market of visitors for us and the opening of Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre is set to do the same – this is in an exciting time!”

Urban Geelong presently has capacity for 41,890 visitors to stay overnight, and new accommodation offerings have added to that figure.

The Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong (180 rooms) and Quest Central Geelong (87 rooms) recently opened, while the future Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre will feature a Crowne Plaza hotel (200 rooms).

Deputy mayor Anthony Aitken, chair of the council’s Strong Economy portfolio, said having a strong visitor market and accommodation sector supported a thriving local economy.

“We can expect a significant population jump during the Christmas period, Melbourne Cup weekend, the Festival of Sails and Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race, just to name a handful.

“Our stunning natural landscapes, north-facing bay and diverse range of cultural and sporting activities continue to attract more people, leading to a positive knock-on economic effect in our region.”