The local economy enjoyed a boost over January and February thanks to an extended visit by Korean premier league baseball team KT Wiz.
The Korean Baseball League side recently departed the region after a six-week training camp in Geelong and a match against the Melbourne Aces at Melbourne Park in late February.
The visit included 85 players and staff, injecting $1.6 to the local economy and supporting 75 local jobs.
KT Wiz players enjoyed catering from restaurant Anju Modern Korean Fusion for the duration of their stay and took advantage of local golf courses and other tourism attractions.
The Korean players also met the community at an open day at Geelong Baseball Centre in Waurn Ponds, while the team has invested in upgrades to the centre.
The City of Greater Geelong announced this week the side would be returning in 2026 for another training camp and three matches.
Greater Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said the elite team was welcome any time.
“It was terrific connecting KT Wiz with our local baseball clubs and showing them everything our beautiful region has to offer,” Mayor Kontelj said.
“The team generated a lot of excitement within our large baseball community, as well as the broader community.
“We look forward to hosting the players, coaches and support staff in 2026 and thank them for investing in the Geelong Baseball Centre and our region.”
Economic Development portfolio chair Councillor Trent Sullivan said the summer camp benefited our baseball community, facilities and local economy.
“This visit has strengthened our ongoing relationship with South Korea, showcased our region on the international stage and led to important improvements to our baseball facilities,” he said.
