Major building works on the new Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre have been completed, marking a significant step toward the opening of the large waterfront venue later this year.
The project is the centrepiece of the $676 million Geelong City Deal, a joint investment between the federal and Victorian governments and the City of Greater Geelong aimed at boosting tourism and business events in the region.
While construction is now largely finished, final fit outs, testing and preparation work are still underway before the venue opens to the public in July. Several conferences and events have already been scheduled, with organisers expecting the centre to bring a steady stream of visitors to the city once operations begin.
The development has been a major construction project for the region, creating more than 1,400 jobs during the building phase and providing training opportunities for around 250 apprentices. More than 440 subcontractors, suppliers and consultants were also involved in delivering the project.
Once open, the venue is expected to support hundreds of ongoing roles across hospitality, tourism, events and services.
The new convention centre complex sits on Geelong’s waterfront and includes a 1,000 seat theatre, exhibition spaces, meeting rooms and flexible event areas designed to host conferences, performances and large gatherings.
Public spaces are also part of the development. Gheringhap Plaza will serve as an outdoor gathering area featuring dining spaces, event areas, an 80 square metre LED screen for broadcasts and more than 1,700 plants.
A 200 room Crowne Plaza hotel within the precinct has already opened, providing accommodation for visitors attending events or travelling to the region.
Nyaal Banyul has been delivered through a partnership involving Development Victoria and the Plenary Conventions consortium, with Built as the construction contractor and Woods Bagot responsible for the design.
“This convention centre will enhance the Geelong waterfront as a vibrant hub that supports local jobs and showcases world class talent,” said Minister for Regional Development and Local Government Kristy McBain.
“Working across all levels of Government has allowed us to pull off this huge achievement that the local community should be proud of.”
