Greater Geelong has a great story to tell, and it is one we are sharing with the world.
We are a destination of choice, with scores of new residents moving here to take advantage of our innovative and modern economy, premier cultural activities, and array of natural assets.
Innovation and creativity is at the forefront of our transformation.
It is these attributes that have taken centre stage this week among our fellow UNESCO Cities of Design.
As Australia’s only City of Design, we draw from our international partners in the UNESCO network for design-led ideas to our common challenges.
It’s been a pleasure to host 26 delegates from 17 different cities over the past five days, with more joining in our program online.
We’ve had some great discussions and shared initiatives about stimulating economic and cultural growth, and have learnt a lot about what other cities are doing in this space.
With our local partners, we’ve also been able to highlight how we are using design to transform our own way of life.
Whether it’s in advanced manufacturing, education, research, or urban planning, design is central to Geelong’s clever and creative future.
We have also been able to showcase our cultural industries, which contribute so much to our creative and visitor-led economies.
One of the last stops on the Cities of Design itinerary is a visit to the Geelong Gallery.
Through drawcards such as the Archibald Prize, Sidney Nolan’s Ned Kelly series, or the RONE exhibition, the gallery is providing incentives for people to visit and to stay in Geelong.
After a compromised two years, Geelong’s major events calendar is arguably stronger and more diverse than ever.
This has helped our tourism industry rebound from the depths of 2020, and record visitation numbers and spending higher than pre-pandemic levels.
Our arts and cultural sector is a key reason why people are so keen to spend time in the region.
Geelong Gallery will tonight open its latest major drawcard – an exclusive exhibition of the work of Australian artist Clarice Beckett.
This extensive Clarice Beckett collection is forecast to attract more than 20,000 visitors, which is why Council has supported the exhibition with Geelong Major Events funding.
That is a huge injection of people into our burgeoning cultural precinct in Little Malop Street, and the nearby shops, restaurants, cafes and bars.
Similarly, the redeveloped Geelong Arts Centre – which will have the capacity to host more than 2000 patrons across several stages – will be a boon for cultural tourism.
The design element behind the centre fits perfectly with our City of Design credentials.
It draws on the history of Geelong, our enduring Wadawurrung culture, and elements of traditional performance features, such as stage curtains and circuses.
Both organisations are vital to the continued progress on our community-led long-term vision to become an internationally recognised clever and creative city.
