The Geelong Convention and Exhibition Centre will be in good hands once it’s complete and operational, with an experienced operator locked in to run the centre.
Regional Development Minister Mary-Anne Thomas and Tourism, Sport and Major Events Minister Martin Pakula confirmed the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust, which operates Melbourne’s centre, would run the waterfront centre once it was built.
The pair said having both of the state’s largest convention and exhibition centres run by the same operator would increase opportunities for collaboration.
“The Geelong Convention and Exhibition Centre is set to bring far reaching benefits to Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula, driving more visitors to the region,” Mr Pakula said.
“The Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre and the Geelong Convention and Exhibition Centre will work together to cement Victoria as a premier global destination for events.”
City of Greater Geelong deputy mayor Trent Sullivan added the Trust’s experience would be valuable to Geelong.
“The Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust has a strong reputation as being a knowledgeable and experienced operator and this expertise will ensure the long-awaited Geelong Convention and Exhibition Centre is a success.”
The Trust will work closely with Geelong’s business and events network, which will include working with events and hospitality businesses from Geelong, supporting local jobs and boosting the region’s economy.
The name and function of the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust will be reviewed to ensure it reflects its expanded focus and footprint in Geelong.
“We have more than 25 years’ experience hosting and delivering world class business events and we’re excited to bring this experience to Geelong and the Bellarine. We look forward to engaging the local community, businesses, and event organisers as the centre is developed,” Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre chief executive Peter King said.
The Geelong Convention and Exhibition Centre (GCEC) will be a major driver of jobs and economic growth for the City of Greater Geelong and surrounding areas, supporting 600 jobs during construction and an additional 270 ongoing jobs through operation.
The state government will invest more than $260 million into the project as part of the Geelong City Deal, with the federal government and City contributing $34 million.
The broader precinct will include the Convention and Exhibition Centre, incorporating a 1000 seat plenary venue and at least 3700 square metres of flexible event space, as well as a 200-room upscale hotel.
An expression of interest process is currently underway to find interested parties capable of delivering the project.
“The Centre is one of our region’s most significant projects and plays an important role in central Geelong’s revitalisation and in bolstering the future of our local visitor and business events markets,” Tourism Greater Geelong and the Bellarine executive director Brett Ince said.
