Geelong’s defence capability on display

RAPP Australia's Mark Holland and Michaela Buckle, Greater Geelong Mayor Trent Sullivan, CLOS' John Fitzgibbon and McHugh and Eastwood's Andrew Bakker will come together next week at the airshow exposition. (Photos by Reg Ryan)

Geelong’s defence industry capability will take on the world stage during Australia’s largest airshow exposition.

The City of Greater Geelong, Deakin University and Hanwha Defence Australia will host a joint stand at the Avalon 2023 Australian International Airshow, Aerospace and Defence Exposition next week.

Mayor Trent Sullivan said the event provided a perfect networking opportunity in industry and government organisations worldwide.

“We’re delighted to be working with, and supporting, a wide range of Geelong-based defence industry firms,” he said.

“The team will be showcasing the competitive advantages the region can offer to companies looking to expand or develop opportunities for partnerships between industry, academia and government to deliver future-focused defence technologies.

“The airshow is the perfect platform to highlight our strengths and to promote our defence capability to key decision makers from across the globe.”

Geelong major events chair Councillor Ron Nelson said the stand would create a fantastic exposure platform for Geelong, with thousands of attendees expected.

“Avalon 2023 will further strengthen our region’s reputation as a strong manufacturing and innovation hub, with a clever and creative workforce,” Cr Nelson said.

“There is immense potential for our presence to facilitate economic, employment and educational outcomes for organisations and institutions in Greater Geelong.”

The City will partner with organisations Air Radiators, XTM, RAPP, CLOS, and McHugh and Eastwood to organise networking opportunities with crucial defence organisations and provide a platform where they can promote their defence capability to decision-makers globally.

The defence stand will be displayed in Hall 1 of the exposition from Tuesday, February 28, to Sunday, March 5.