By PAUL MILLAR
LOCAL councillor Eddy Kontelj has floated the idea of erecting a big screen in the heart of the city to help revitalise the CBD.
The Cowie ward councillor said the screen could promote and cover local and international sporting events and run local news and be funded by advertising.
“It would attract a different type of person to places like the mall and make it a more inviting place for people to visit,” Cr Kontelj said.
The screen could also be used to deliver emergency warnings and local weather forecasts.
He said Federation Square had proved to be a huge success in Melbourne and he was keen to explore the possibility of a similar option in Geelong.
His vision ties in with plans to revitalise the city centre.
“This initiative may provide one opportunity to clean up the unsavoury gatherings in our mall, by having a more family friendly environment for people to gather in and driving out poor behaviour,” he said.
The councillor believed the concept should be complemented with alfresco dining.
“Each day you could experience an electric mix of media including cutting edge arts projects, multicultural news broadcasts and also view information of events and attractions in Melbourne.
“We could also show major sporting events such as the AFL grand final, the Melbourne Cup, World Cup soccer and the formula one grand prix,” he said.
“We could showcase our coast line, and promote Geelong, highlighting what’s happening; we could have interactive television and even our own Geelong TV.
“It could be funded by companies keen to promote their products and venues to visitors.”
Federation Square regularly draws huge crowds to view international sporting events, many travelling from Geelong to soak up the atmosphere.
