Geelong is now home to the biggest events and convention centre in regional Victoria.
Premier Jacinta Allan and Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles officially opened the Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre today.
The $449 million project has turned Geelong into a world-class destination for global events and conferences.
It will attract more visitors, create jobs and generate millions in economic benefit for the region.
The venue features:
- a 1,000-seat theatre
- exhibition spaces
- meeting rooms
- conference facilities
- flexible event spaces
- food and beverage offerings
- Gheringhap Plaza.
Next door, the 200-room Crowne Plaza offers a convenient stay for event attendees.
The centre will start hosting events from next month with 80 conferences and events already booked in.
Nyaal Banyul will employ more than 240 people in Geelong.
More than 50 local businesses are engaged in delivering events, supplying local food, wine and equipment.
Construction created 1,400 jobs, with 250 apprentices completing more than 150,000 hours of hands-on training.
The building was designed in collaboration with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation.
The project was made possible through a $416.1 million investment from the Allan Labor Government, alongside $30 million from the Albanese Government and $3 million from the City of Greater Geelong.
The precinct will host a free Community Open Day on Saturday 11 July.
Only Labor is investing in regional Victoria.
More than $50 billion has been delivered over the past decade to make our regions even better places to live, work, visit and study.
While Labor continues to back our landmark projects, Jess Wilson's Liberals would cut $40 billion in services.
Quotes attributable to Deputy Prime Minister and Federal Member for Corio, Richard Marles MP:
“This world-leading venue is a massive win for regional development in Geelong, creating hundreds of ongoing jobs and celebrating the proud culture of the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners.
“Nyaal Banyul will open up further opportunities for the Geelong economy, with events bringing in more business for our local cafes, hotels, pubs and restaurants, securing local jobs.
“Along with greater investment in the local economy, this is bringing new life to the Geelong CBD and invigorating the city centre.”
Quotes attributable to the Premier of Victoria, Jacinta Allan MP:
“We’re creating more local jobs in Geelong and backing local businesses and suppliers.”
“Labor is driving investment in Geelong, with Nyaal Banyul to deliver long-term economic benefits for the city.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain MP:
“The opening of Nyaal Banyul means Geelong can now start benefiting from this world-class centre.
“By attracting national and international delegates, it will create jobs and boost hoteliers, restaurants and small businesses.
“More than 1,400 jobs have already been created across the region with more to come.”
Quotes attributable to Victorian Minister for Regional Development, Michaela Settle MP:
“Nyaal Banyul is creating more opportunities for local businesses and attracting people to our regions.
“Development Victoria has played a key role in delivering Nyaal Banyul, bringing together partners to create a world-class precinct that will support jobs, tourism and long-term growth for Geelong.”
Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Corangamite, Libby Coker MP:
“This opening is a major win for Geelong, but also the Bellarine and Surf Coast, with the precinct taking a region-first approach to trades and suppliers.
“More than 50 local businesses have helped bring the new precinct to life by providing fresh produce, local wines and event services to create memorable experiences for visitors.”
Quote attributable to Member for Geelong, Christine Couzens
“This is a venue that celebrates the region’s unique identity and welcomes visitors from around Australia.”
Quote attributable to Member for Lara, Ella George
“This is a landmark moment for Geelong and the wider community, with a venue that will help put our region on the map for generations to come.”
Quote attributable to Member for Bellarine, Alison Marchant
“Nyaal Banyul will help showcase everything that makes Geelong special and encourage more visitors.”
Quote attributable to Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney
“Labor is creating jobs, supporting local businesses and building infrastructure that Geelong can be proud of.”
Quote attributable to Acting Minister for Tourism, Steve Dimopoulos MP:
“We’re helping Geelong host more major conferences and events, strengthening its reputation as a leading regional destination.”
Quotes attributable to Deputy Mayor of Greater Geelong, Cr Eddy Kontelj:
“This world-class venue will attract major conferences, events and visitors from across Australia and beyond, strengthening our economy, supporting local jobs and creating opportunities for businesses across the region.”
Quotes attributable to the Chief Executive Officer of Plenary Group, Paul Crowe:
“This highlights the value the private sector can bring in driving innovation and delivering infrastructure projects like Nyaal Banyul that support the local community and will create a lasting economic impact for Geelong and the region.”