World-class events boost Greater Geelong’s economy

I love this time of year when our community comes together to celebrate what makes our city a great place to live.

The Festival of Sails opens this Saturday, offering Geelong’s ultimate summer celebration showcasing our stunning waterfront.

And just days later, Eastern Beach will host big crowds for the 10th anniversary of the world-class Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race.

Not only are these two free events fantastic for enriching community spirit, but they provide significant economic benefits to Greater Geelong and strengthen our reputation as a world-class events host, enhancing the region’s brand and improving liveability.

The Greater Geelong economy received a $51.05 million boost in 2023-24 thanks to 12 major events that were sponsored by Geelong Major Events (GME).

These events attracted 338,000 participants and spectators, supporting an estimated 452 full-time jobs.

Off the back of a $215,458 GME contribution, January’s 2024 Festival of Sails generated $8,823,253 for the Geelong region.

As the largest sailing regatta in the Southern Hemisphere, it’s not just about racing—it’s where world-class sailing meets a three-day festival packed with live music, gourmet food, and unforgettable entertainment.

From family-friendly activities under the sun to epic performances and fireworks lighting up the night sky, the event offers something for everyone.

Set against the backdrop of the Royal Geelong Yacht Club and Eastern Beach, the festival transforms the waterfront into a lively playground that draws tens of thousands of visitors each year.

The Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race has also grown to draw a large crowd to Geelong.

The 2024 edition injected a massive $17.8 million into our region, drawing 140,000 participants and attendees last January.

This year, the races run from January 31 to February 2. Watch from the start-finish line at Steampacket Gardens, or make your way to the Challambra Live Site to cheer on the riders as they tackle the iconic King and Queen of the Mountain Climb.

There are countless ways to get involved and soak up the excitement of the races.

The free Geelong Port Family Ride is the perfect family activity to kick off an incredible weekend of cycling action, while the TAC People’s Ride offers riders of all experience levels the chance to participate on the same roads as the elite riders in this world-class event.

Council’s contribution to Major Events represents a return on investment for our community of 49:1.

Our GME Committee does an outstanding job attracting and supporting major events, and coupled with our new Geelong Major Events Strategy 2024-29, we’re excited to see even greater benefits for our region.

In July last year, Council adopted the strategy, providing a roadmap for major event sponsorship over the next five years.

After celebrating the next two weeks, we can look forward to the Avalon Australian International Airshow in March.

It’s time to get outside and enjoy it!

Mayor Stretch Kontelj

Kardinia Ward