Propelled by a growing population and a strengthening economy, the region is going forwards in leaps and bounds.
This progress has the full attention of regional cities from across the globe.
In the past month alone, we’ve hosted and met with government delegations from Singapore, Malaysia and China.
Whether it is through the UNESCO City of Design network, or new relationships forged by economic or creative bonds, Geelong has fast become a case study for modern reinvention.
While reinvention comes in many forms, you can see that in the way that old, heritage-listed industrial buildings are being repurposed for new uses and sectors.
Think of the Fyansford Paper Mills, which is now a thriving cultural, artistic and dining precinct; or Pivot City in North Geelong, which is home to a tech-driven innovation district.
This transformation is being led by design, which places users at the forefront of its thinking.
Design is informing our urban planning and communities, it is creating jobs in sectors such as research and advanced manufacturing, and its working for residents and the environment in sustainability-led initiatives.
Recognising our unique connection as the country’s only UNESCO-listed City of Design, Geelong Design Week is a celebration of all this activity.
It also provides residents and visitors an opportunity to better understand not only where we come from, but where we’re going.
The annual design festival returns next week, after a very successful 2022 program.
More than 6300 people attended a Geelong Design Week event last year, with about one in seven of those travelling from outside the region.
This is a further indication that Geelong’s design-led credentials are attracting attention from far and wide.
There are so many great events and experiences included in this year’s festival.
I’m very pleased that it is driven to allow local designers to share their wares and to tell their stories.
The 11-day program includes multiple showcase events, featuring creatives working in areas such as fashion, jewellery, furniture, wallpaper, lighting and fabrics.
There are also several opportunities to learn more about the 60,000 years of Wadawurrung knowledge and culture.
It’s a key element in the City of Greater Geelong’s headquarters, Wurriki Nyal, which will have its doors open for guided tours.
The influence can also be seen in the design of the Geelong Art Centre, which has incorporated Wadawurrung stories, culture and artworks.
A further spotlight will be shined on First Nations’ designers, at a talk centred around how to work with First Nations creatives and commission designs.
There is also a look back at the wave of 20 th century innovations, including decimal coins designs, the commercial fridge, Toyne’s rotary clothesline and Bandt’s Ford Ute.
Council is showcasing its own sustainability initiative, the Dell Eco Reef off Clifton Springs.
The artificial reef habitat is supporting a range of species, including oysters and mussels, and providing a wave break to reduce erosion along a fragile stretch of coastline.
I encourage you to view the full Geelong Design Week program at geelongcityofdesign.com.au/geelong-design-week
