Torquay hosts G21 forum in return to face-to-face format

TORQUAY is set to host this year’s G21 Stakeholder Forum, with a welcome return to a face-to-face format, former ABC broadcaster Jon Faine as MC and an exciting line-up of guest speakers.

Highly respected author and journalist George Megalogenis and urban research expert Professor Billie Giles-Corti will present their insights on ‘connected communities’ and G21’s opportunity to become Australia’s most liveable region.

An expert panel featuring Wadawurrung Traditional Owner Corrina Eccles, sustainable architect Jeremy McLeod, economist Angela Jackson and urban planner Nat Anson will share their ideas on sustainability and growth within the G21 region.

The major regional event, proudly supported by Times News Group, will be on Friday, August 6 at the RACV Torquay Resort and G21 chief executive Giulia Baggio is thrilled G21 stakeholders will be back together this year.

“Last year’s forum was forced by COVID to a virtual format. It was a great success, but of course there wasn’t the same sense of occasion as from coming together to listen and discuss.

“This year we’ve tailored the forum around several significant themes important to our region, including sustainability and connectiveness. Informed discussions on these matters are crucial to carefully shaping the region our kids will inherit.

“We’re one of the fastest growing regions in Australia and we should anticipate the inevitable continuation of that growth well into the future.

“Distinguished Professor Billie Giles-Corti is internationally known for her work on the impact of the built environment on connectiveness and the health and wellbeing of communities and people.

“I’m really looking forward to her insights about the challenges and potential solutions for our region’s growth pains.

“We have George Megalogenis, one of the most respected, analytical authors and journalists in Australia providing insights about this region and its demographics. George always brings a perspective that is fresh and thought provoking.”

Ms Baggio said Jon Faine as MC would “no doubt keep the day moving with his unique style” and host a lively panel debate about what it takes to keep people connected as the region grows.

She also acknowledged and thanked key sponsors of the regional council forum.

“The Times News Group has been a supporter of G21 and the forum for many years,” Ms Baggio said. “We really appreciate the group’s support, and that of our other forum sponsors.”

Primary supporting sponsors include the Times News Group, Gforce Employment Solutions, TAC and Deakin University, with supporting sponsors Evologic, GeelongPort, Urbis and LBW Business & Wealth Advisors.

Tickets include entry to the forum, morning tea, lunch and post-forum drinks and canapés, with 10 per cent of ticket sales going to a charity in each G21 council area.

The forum is always a sell-out event, and bookings can be made via eventbrite.com.au – search for “G21 stakeholder forum 2021”.

Full refunds apply should COVID restrictions change and prevent a face-to-face event.