Region perfect backdrop for global marathon

We are blessed to live in such a beautiful part of the world.

There are so many amazing attractions right on our doorstep, which is why Greater Geelong draws visitors from across the globe.

It is also why I am so determined to look at ways we can attract further interest from those overseas to come here.

I recently returned from the United States, where I had the great pleasure of participating in the New York Marathon.

It was a privilege to be part of the starting group of more than 51,000 runners – of which there were 822 Australians – particularly given there were more than 128,000 applications received from 153 countries.

I had the tremendous honour of representing Australia in the Parade of Nations —a showcase of runners from all over the world – prior to the marathon, which took us on a journey of 26.2 miles over the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge from Staten Island to Brooklyn, then through Queens, Manhattan, the Bronx, and back into Manhattan to finish in Central Park.

The atmosphere was incredible, with millions of spectators cheering runners on from the sidewalks and fans from all over the world supporting us.

Being involved in such a special day only reinforced my view that this is the type of event I hope to see Geelong have in its own right at some point in the future.

The marathon community really is so inclusive and loves traveling to all corners of the world – as evidenced by our own hosting of the 70.3 Ironman event – and with our natural wonders, landscapes and beauty it is a no-brainer to look into this.

As I have said previously, you only need to look at the success of the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race to see how quickly an idea can become reality, and with proper backing a Geelong marathon could rival some of the best in the world.

Separate to the race itself, the support shown by the community is next level.

The economic stimulus such an event would provide – especially if we attracted runners from across the world – would be huge and I would imagine this is something most people would get behind.

Christmas/Happy New Year message

It is incredible to think we have nearly reached the end of the year already.

As a Council we have experienced much change in 2023 and like all organisations there have been plenty of challenges for us to overcome.

But I am grateful to the community for its support and feedback on a range of issues and I sincerely hope everyone can enjoy a happy, safe and relaxing Christmas with family and friends.

This time of year can be challenging for a lot of people, so please make sure to check in on those who might be doing it tough.

A phone call, a message, a little note can be all it takes to help someone experiencing difficult times, and as a Council we have looked at ways to try to help vulnerable members of our community at this time of year.

Our Christmas in the Community grants program has enabled some of our neighbourhood houses to run free events for the community, while several other free events have been and remain available for people looking to be involved in other activities.

Ensuring Christmas is accessible for everyone is vital and I am proud of Council’s work in doing this.

On a personal note, I want to thank everyone for reaching out to me throughout the year and I want to take this opportunity to reiterate I am always available for any Council related matters.

Please feel free to contact me on 0455 532 006 to raise an issue, or reach out via the City’s website geelongaustralia.com.au, via phone, 03 5272 5272, via email ([email protected]) or via the City app.

Cr Eddy Kontelj

Brownbill Ward