Events define Geelong’s identity

GEELONG’S calendar is packed with reasons to celebrate and every year our events scene seems to reach new heights.

From world-class sport to nationally recognised festivals, these events do more than entertain, they help define who we are as a city.

The drive to keep Geelong at the forefront of Australia’s events landscape has been given a significant boost with the appointment of three new members to the Geelong Major Events Committee (GME).

Marcus Gale, Peter Hertan and Deirdre McGuane each bring decades of experience in sport, arts, culture and large-scale events and will serve on the committee until July 2029.

As a delegated committee of the City of Greater Geelong, GME plays a vital role in supporting the growth of existing events and proactively searching and acquiring new major events for the region.

Since its inception, the committee has been instrumental in attracting internationally recognised sporting competitions, iconic festivals and beloved community gatherings that showcase the region and deliver strong economic returns.

In the 2023–24 financial year alone, 12 major events generated more than $51 million in economic benefit for our region and supported 452 full-time jobs.

Importantly, more than 80 per cent of those events offered free public access, ensuring the excitement was shared by locals and visitors alike.

Geelong is already home to some of Australia’s most significant events.

The Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race brought $19.7 million in economic benefits this year.

The Festival of Sails, first held in 1844, continues to draw sailing enthusiasts from across the globe.

IRONMAN 70.3 Geelong proudly formed part of the global IRONMAN Pro-series in 2025.

This spring is shaping up to be one of the most exciting times of the year for Geelong, with a calendar full of events that will draw visitors, create jobs and give locals plenty to enjoy.

Three standout events this season will show why Geelong continues to attract national attention.

First is the celebrated Archibald Prize, on now at Geelong Gallery until November 9.

Geelong has a special link to this exhibition because its founder, JF Archibald, was born in Geelong West in 1856.

The exhibition is expected to draw more than 70,000 visitors and deliver around $8 million in economic benefits.

It is a rare chance to see portraits of figures such as Nicole Kidman, Neale Daniher and Costa Georgiadis right here in our own city.

On Saturday, October 11, Victoria’s newest arts event, ROAM Geelong, will transform the city for one unforgettable night.

Hundreds of artists will create a multi-sensory journey through art, music, performance and storytelling in the heart of the city.

Finally, Run4Geelong returns on Sunday, November 9, with the City of Greater Geelong stepping in as the new naming rights partner.

Every registration fee goes directly to supporting Barwon Health’s vital services.

With options from a 10km run to a 1km kids’ course, it is a wonderful way to combine fitness, fun and community support.

With an outstanding coming program and a refreshed committee guiding the way, the future of events in our city has never looked brighter.

For more information on coming events in Geelong, head to geelongaustralia.com.au/events