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This appointment follows Rick’s successful tenure as Project Director for Nyaal Banyul since 2022, where he has played a pivotal role in the venue’s design and development, while laying the foundations for its future operations. 
Funded by the 
Geelong City Deal
, the Nyaal Banyul precinct will include a purpose-built convention and exhibition space, incorporating a 1,000 seat venue, two large exhibition spaces, meeting rooms, conference facilities and flexible event spaces.
The precinct will also be home to retail and hospitality spaces, a large public plaza that promises to become a feature of the Geelong waterfront and a 200-room Crowne Plaza hotel. 
Rick brings more than 30 years of extensive experience in senior leadership and operations management to this role. His career highlights include five years as Head of Operations at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, where he honed his expertise in managing large-scale events and operations.
An internationally accomplished executive, Rick has successfully led the strategic development and operational delivery of over 60 major international events, including the Commonwealth Games in India and the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
His experience also includes serving as Chief Executive of the North Melbourne Football Club, Managing Director of Peter Rowland Major Events, and providing consultancy services to the Australian Football League. Rick is a former Board Director of William Angliss.
Natalie O’Brien AM, Chief Executive of Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust, said Mr Aylett was selected from a strong field of candidates for his experience, skills and passion for delivering excellence in event management. 
“We’re thrilled to have Rick at the helm of Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre,”
 Ms O’Brien said. 
“His proven leadership and vast experience in the industry will be instrumental in establishing Nyaal Banyul as the best regional convention centre in Australia.”
Mr Aylett said he was excited to get to work preparing Nyaal Banyul for opening in 2026. 
“
I’m honoured to be given this opportunity and look forward to working with the team to deliver meaningful and world-class experiences for event organisers and attendees,
” said Mr Aylett. 
“Greater Geelong is such an incredible destination with so much to offer.”
“I’m also thrilled to be connecting and partnering with the Geelong community. The longstanding local support and advocacy for the convention centre is the reason we exist.”
“Nyaal Banyul will be a game-changer for Geelong, and I’m eager to contribute to its success,”
 said Mr Aylett. 

MCET is pleased to announce the appointment of Rick Aylett as the General Manager of Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre.

General Manager Appointed for Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre

A short drive away, The Bellarine Peninsula awaits with its vineyards and breathtaking bay views. Spend the day discovering coastal treasures, sampling seasonal delights from local provedores, and unwinding on golden beaches that stretch as far as the eye can see. 
Whether you’re seeking culture, cuisine, or simply a moment of peace by the water, Geelong and The Bellarine offer an escape you’ll carry with you long after the day is done. 
If you have one day, here’s our guide to getting a little of everything. 
Start with 
Born and Bread Bakehouse
  is a locally loved spot serving pastries, sourdough bread, and delicious cups of coffee to set the tone for your day. 
Spend the morning  
If you're looking to learn more about this diverse community, wander through 
Geelong Gallery.
 
 It features an expansive collection of Australian and European art, including classic Australian landscapes by Arthur Streeton and Aboriginal art, sculptures, and contemporary techniques. The best part is it's free!  
Don’t miss  
Before visiting the 
National Wool Museum
, take a stroll along the waterfront to enjoy stunning views and more than 100 colourful bollards representing the city's eclectic past. At the museum, explore exhibits showcasing the city’s industrial heritage, rooted in wool production, and discover how it shaped Geelong’s identity. 
Hit the road  
It's time to explore the coast. A short distance from Geelong, The Bellarine Peninsula awaits with its lush vineyards and panoramic bay views. Grab a bite to eat at 
Jack Rabbit Vineyard
, where you can enjoy fresh, locally sourced dishes while soaking in the scenic surroundings to slow your pace and truly unwind. 
Keep your eye out  
For the charming coastal towns as you venture further into The Bellarine. Pause along the way to visit seaside shops, discover delicious regional provedores, or simply relax on one of the pretty beaches; you will quickly learn there’s a hidden gem around every corner. 
Take your pick 
From farm gates to provedores, The Bellarine offers the best produce or visit a local distillery for a tasting experience. If you’re feeling adventurous, explore the flavours of 
The Bellarine Distillery 
 and learn about the craft of gin-making with local botanicals. 
If you're feeling 
Like a game, tee off at one of The Bellarine’s world-class golf courses, where the greens meet the sea. Or take a peaceful walk along the coastline, soaking in the natural beauty and fresh sea air.  
Come together 
Geelong’s vibrant dining scene offers options that abound. Enjoy dinner at 
Little Creatures
, known for its vibrant atmosphere, and exceptional craft beers, offering the perfect end to your day. The lively atmosphere and warm hospitality are just what you need after a day of exploration.  
After something quieter, head to 
Songbird, a Northern Thai
 restaurant with a menu designed to share. 
As the day winds down 
Head to 
Eastern Beach Reserve
 for a sunset stroll. The sky lights up in hues of orange and pink, reflecting off the calm waters of the bay. Whether you choose to take a dip or simply sit back and watch the sunset - a peaceful end to a beautiful day. 
With just one day, Geelong and The Bellarine promise a memorable escape—where culture, nature, and local flavours come together to create an experience you’ll treasure long after your visit. 
Discover why Geelong 
is the perfect destination to bring your event to life. 

Just an hour from Melbourne, Geelong invites you to slow down and open your eyes to its vibrant blend of history, art, and modern charm.

One Day in Geelong and The Bellarine Peninsula 

Currently under construction on the Geelong waterfront, Nyaal Banyul offers 3,700 square metres of versatile event space, including a 1,000-seat theatre. 
Venue details, including floorplans and video flythroughs, have just been released on the venue website, 
www.nyaalbanyul.com.au
. 
The precinct will host a wide variety of events from international and national conferences, exhibitions and entertainment events to local community gatherings. 
As operators, the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust is inviting all event organisers to explore the potential of Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre, which is just an hour's drive from Melbourne. 
The cutting edge, sustainably designed venue presents a new and exciting opportunity for event organisers looking to deliver a unique, destination-based event. 
It is set in a premium location on the waterfront of Wadawurrung land, surrounded by a lively precinct filled with diverse eateries and a connected 200-room Crowne Plaza Hotel. 
Pre and post event, attendees are spoiled for choice with some of Australia’s best craft breweries, local wineries, farm gates and provedores, and vibrant creative scene all on Nyaal Banyul’s doorstep. 
Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre is part of the Geelong City Deal, a collaborative partnership to transform Geelong and the Great Ocean Road by the Australian and Victorian Governments with the City of Greater Geelong. 
The following comments to be attributed to Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust CEO Natalie O’Brien AM: 
"We are thrilled to be virtually “opening the doors” to Nyaal Banyul for the first time. 
We can’t wait to welcome visitors to our stunning new venue - an architectural masterpiece inspired by the diverse landscape and cultural heritage that dates back thousands of generations. 
I encourage interested event organisers to visit our website and discover why Nyaal Banyul is the perfect venue for your next event."
The following comments to be attributed to Victorian Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos: 
"When Nyaal Banyul opens its doors, it will bring all different types of entertainment, events and conferences, and community gatherings to Geelong – delivering a significant economic boost to the whole community." 
"Anyone looking to stage an unforgettable event at this new destination should book in as soon as possible because demand for this world-class venue will be high." 
Venue facts 
Location: 
Located on the Geelong waterfront 
1 hour drive from Melbourne 
Accessible by air, road, rail and ferry 
About the venue: 
3,700 sqm of flexible event space, including: 
1,000 seat theatre 
2,000 sqm exhibition space 
Flexible meeting spaces overlooking the Geelong waterfront 
200 room Crowne Plaza hotel 
Public plaza with diverse eateries 
200 car spaces 
Sustainability: 
38% energy used at Nyaal Banyul will be self-generated 
Once open, Nyaal Banyul will be a fossil fuel free site (with the exception of stored diesel for the backup generator) 
Waste sorting and diversion – 13 waste streams that will be sorted and diverted from landfill 
5 Star Green Star operational accreditation target 
For more information head back to our 
home page
 and begin exploring. 

Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre is now taking bookings for 2026 and beyond.

Bookings now open for Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre  

Swim with dolphins and seals
Head out with 
Sea All Dolphin Swims
 to get up close with seals and dolphins of Port Phillip. On the boat tour you’ll visit the protected waters of Popes Eye, a circular structure originally intended to be the foundations of an island fort but now teeming with marine life. At Chinaman’s Hat, up to 100 Australian Fur Seals await for a play, and you can swim with wild dolphins too. 
Dine on Australia’s premier rail restaurant
Australia’s premier rail restaurant, 
The Q Train
, offers you the chance to indulge in the best produce from Geelong, Bellarine and the Otways, while sitting back and enjoying the best views of the region. As you enjoy a degustation five course meal on board the heritage train, you’ll pass iconic Bellarine scenery of the countryside, olive groves and the protected Swan Bay wetlands which are abundant with birdlife.  

Sample The Bellarine’s finest makers and growers
The Bellarine Taste Trail brings together dozens of unique food and drink experiences across the beautiful Bellarine Peninsula. It’s a delicious way to tour a stunning region. 
There are farmgate producers growing and making the produce that’s served at the best eateries near and far – from mussels and honey to fruit and vegetables. And even a 100% sourdough bakery, 
Ket Baker
.

More than 30 vineyards take advantage of their geography to produce award-winning wine in stunning locations, but wine isn’t the only expertly crafted drink on the trail. On The Bellarine you can sample cider, gin, craft beer and even whisky. 
The Whiskery
 produces award-winning gins and a single malt whisky distilled and served at the rustic restored farm shed in the heart of The Bellarine.  
Wineries with bay views or rolling countryside
Greater Geelong and The Bellarine is one of Australia’s leading wine-making regions with its rich basalt soils over limestone base. Cool climate wines such as pinot noir, shiraz and chardonnay thrive but you’ll find other varietals too. And of course, wine tastes best when paired with a view so choose between a backdrop of captivating blue water on The Bellarine or the rolling green hills of the Moorabool Valley. 
The Bellarine:
 
Scotchmans Hill
 is one of the oldest and highly rated wineries on The Bellarine with an outstanding restaurant and views to Melbourne. 
Jack Rabbit Vineyard
 and 
Terindah Estate
 both offer stunning views across the vines to the bay. 
At 
Terindah Estate,
 grab a grazing platter and laze in comfortable lounges on their sun-soaked deck, sit down for a meal in The Shed restaurant or try their quirky Peter’s Odyssey Tram Bar, set in and around a fully refurbished W Class tram. 
Moorabool Valley
: At 
Clyde Park Vineyard
 the vista across Bannockburn’s green valleys is magical. Try a guided tasting and wood-fired pizza in the ample space indoors or outside. 
Take a boutique bay cruise and taste Portarlington mussels fresh from the sea
Portarlington Mussel Tours
’ boutique and intimate bay tour, gives you a front row seat to the mussel farming process from the comfort of a lovingly restored and very comfortable 40-year-old Huon pine vessel. 
Get to know the mussel farmer in an intimate setting and see how the popular Portarlington blue mussels are expertly cultivated. Experience cooking demonstrations and tastings, complemented by Bellarine wines and other local produce. 
If you're lucky on the day, you might even spy dolphins on the tour and get to try the local Angasi oysters. 
Walk the bollard art trail 
The 
trail of bollards
 along Geelong's spectacular waterfront are an iconic attraction to the region that represent the rich history of the town. 
With over 100 of them scattered between Rippleside and Limeburners Point each one depicts a different person from the past who added to the making of Geelong. 
From English explorer Mathew Flinders who sighted Corio Bay from the You Yangs in 1802, to The Koori family which shows the local hunter and gatherer culture and many more. 
Artist, Jan Mitchell was commissioned by the City of Greater Geelong to transform old timbers and piles from a city pier, into incredible works of art in the 1980s. 
Learn about Geelong’s wool making history 
Visit the 
National Wool Museum
 to hear about the timeless Australian story of wool, fibre and textiles, watch a sheep shearing demonstration and discover why fleece from Australia’s sheep was at the heart of the economy for nearly 200 years.
In 1988 the National Wool Museum was opening by Queen Elizabeth II and established as Australia’s only comprehensive museum of wool. With its recently renovated galleries you will experience a renewed Australian Story. 
Relax at Lon Retreat and Spa
Lon Retreat
 is an adult exclusive five-star luxury retreat, with seven suites spread throughout the sandstone retreat, each individually designed with its own unique character and connection to the ocean, lakes and surrounding farmland. Each suite is a personal sanctuary, inspired by its natural surroundings combining earthy tones with contemporary luxury.
Facilities include a mineral spa, heated indoor pool, private beach access, surrounding gardens and farmland. High on the hill and inspired by the farm and coastal surroundings, Lon Spa is a simple yet luxurious spa experience. Water therapy is sourced from natural mineral springs running beneath the farm. 
Explore the coast 
The Bellarine enjoys the best of both worlds, hugging the sheltered sparkling waters of Port Phillip Bay and facing Bass Strait’s surf beaches and salty breezes. It’s sprinkled with little towns that are laid-back in the summer months, perfect for lazy days barefoot with a beach towel over your shoulder or gazing at the water with a bundle of fish and chips in your lap.
During the warmer months, swimming beaches can be found at Portarlington, Indented Head, St Leonards, Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale. At Barwon Heads the wide, sheltered estuary flanked by sand flats sees the Barwon River flow out to sea forming a playground just made for stand-up paddle boarding, rockpool rambling or building sandcastles.
Turn up the dial and follow the roar of the surf to Ocean Grove with its 10km of beach (Main Beach is patrolled in summer). With beautiful clean water protected by a headland, this is one of the best places to learn to surf in Australia. Instructors at 
Go Ride a Wave, SeaEarth Adventures
 or 
Great Ocean Road Surf Tours
 can get beginners standing up in no time. 
If your skills are already sound, the swell is at its strongest at Point Lonsdale back beach and Thirteenth Beach, an exposed break near Barwon Heads. 
Queenscliff has a fascinating maritime history steeped with gripping tales of shipwrecks, rescues and lighthouse emergencies. About 30 ships have met their fate at ‘The Rip’ - the treacherous entrance into Port Phillip Bay from Bass Strait which vessels must pass through enroute to Melbourne. It’s considered among the most dangerous waters in the world.
Fun for Everyone: Werribee and Surrounds 
Werribee is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be uncovered. Explore the grand Werribee Mansion, wander through lush gardens, and step back in time. Just nearby, the Werribee Open Range Zoo offers a safari-like adventure where you can see rhinos, giraffes, and zebras up close. Perfect for a day of family fun and excitement, Werribee blends history, nature, and adventure in one unforgettable destination. 
Where to stay:
Novotel Geelong
 
– Prime location with views across Geelong’s stunning waterfront. Includes a newly opened bar and restaurant downstairs, 
Tempo Kitchen and Bar.
  
BIG4 Ingenia Holidays Queenscliff Beacon
 – Wide range of accommodation options from cabins to camping, suitable for families or couples. Located at the entrance to the popular coastal town of Queenscliff.  
Sagres Queenscliff
 
– A luxury home perched alongside the beach in Queenscliff. Sleeps up to 10 in five rooms and across three levels. Includes private beach access, pool, fireplace with exquisite interior styling.   
Portarlington Grand Hotel
 – The historic and newly refurbished Portarlington Grand Hotel offers a boutique experience on the main street in town. Atrium bar and bistro pub are located on the ground floor.  

Transport:
Searoad Ferries
 – Australia's favourite car and passenger ferry service, transporting passengers between Sorrento and Queenscliff. Regular trips are made daily, taking approximately 45 minutes to cross Port Phillip.
Port Phillip Ferries
 - Port Phillip Ferries is a ferry service offering open air boat cruises and rides across Port Phillip Bay in Melbourne, Australia. It connects Portarlington and Geelong to Docklands, Melbourne.  



Explore the top things to do in Geelong and The Bellarine—from scenic vineyards to stunning coastal walks. Read the blog and start planning your perfect escape!

Top Things to Do in Geelong and The Bellarine

The brand draws upon the name gifted by Wadawurrung Traditional Owners, Nyaal Banyul, meaning ‘open your eyes to the hills’. MCET has engaged with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation throughout the brand development process, creating a shared vision for the future venue. 
Nyaal Banyul invites all that visit to seek a new perspective, through the shared knowledge and ideas events held at the venue foster,and experiencing the venue design influenced by Wadawurrung stories of Country. Nyaal Banyul invites people from around the world to connect and exchange transformative ideas, inspired by the waterfront landscape of Geelong/Djilang.
The brand mark, created by brand agency The Contenders, is influenced by the hills and layers of Country that come together to form an eye, symbolising enlightenment and perspective. It encourages a deeper appreciation and renewed viewpoint, through iconic, playful and bold symbology.
The colour palette reflects the ever-changing natural light of Sky Country that floods the region from sunrise/Pilk Purriyn, sunset/Tali-talik and into night/Murrkal. 
Nyaal Banyul’s brand pays homage to the site’s history as a gathering place. For thousands of years, the Wadawurrung People have come together, to yarn, celebrate, share songs and dance, trade, make decisions, solve problems and pass on knowledge, aligning with the purpose of the future convention and event centre. 
Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre is in a premium location, with the sea on the doorstep, views across the bay and hills surrounding, and in the heart of Geelong’s vibrant city. 
Pre and post event, attendees are spoiled for choice with some of Australia’s best craft breweries, local wineries, farm gates and provedores, and vibrant creative scene all on Nyaal Banyul’s doorstep. We invite future visitors to linger longer, to marvel at the region, to engage with new ideas, to form new connections.
Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre is part of the Geelong City Deal, a collaborative partnership to transform Geelong and the Great Ocean Road by the Australian and Victorian Governments with the City of Greater Geelong. 
Construction of the new centre is underway with completion and opening in 2026. 
Quotes attributed to MCEC Chief Executive Natalie O’Brien AM
“We’re thrilled to launch the inaugural brand for Nyaal Banyul, which celebrates First Nations culture and storytelling and is influenced by the architecture of the venue. 
We’ve collaborated with the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners to develop a brand that the whole Geelong community can be proud of, as well as creating a captivating value proposition for customers and visitors, that encourages belonging, sharing and seeking.”
Quotes attributed to MCEC Head of Marketing, Elizabeth Kozmevski
“It’s an honour to create a brand with deep meaning and purpose for Nyaal Banyul, leading with story of country and reflecting the energy of Geelong. 
The new brand embodies our goals for Nyaal Banyul, creating a space for belonging and gathering, where individuals can not only share and seek knowledge, but also be inspired by the diversity of landscape and cultural heritage that surrounds us.” 
Quotes attributed to Wadawurrung Woman Corrina Eccles
“The name Nyaal Banyul encourages people to open their eyes to the hills of Wadawurrung Country, for these hills hold our stories, resources and our strong sense of belonging. The brand acknowledges our deep connection to this place,  the Western Cliffs of Djilang, which have always been a gathering place for Wadawurrung People.”
Quotes attributed to Managing Partner of The Contenders, Joe Rogers
“To get the opportunity to work with a gifted narrative and name has been a career highlight for our team at The Contenders. We are so proud of the work as it reflects a genuine partnership between the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners, Liz and her team at MCET, and the people of Geelong."

As operators of the future Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre, MCET celebrates the unveiling of the brand for the venue.

Eye-Opening Brand Revealed for Geelong's New Convention Centre

Nyaal Banyul will be operated by the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust (MCET). In our conversation with Liz Kozmevski, Head of Marketing at MCET, we explore the thought process for Nyaal Banyul, Geelong's new venue brand. We discuss the aspirations, design elements, the meaning behind the name, and how brand is so much more than look and feel, particularly as the portfolio of event venues expands. 
Collaboratively designed to showcase the city's unique identity, actively embracing new ideas and vibrancy, the waterfront venue in regional Victoria is committed to making a lasting impression through experiences centred on knowledge-sharing and community connections.
What was the starting point for creating the Nyaal Banyul brand? 
It all starts with strategy and what you want to achieve, thinking about how you can leave a lasting impression balancing relevance and connection with many audiences. Some things were obvious, we knew we needed to create a venue brand that leads with story of Country and puts Djilang/Geelong on the map. We must establish Nyaal Banyul as a preeminent Victorian waterfront venue for enriching experiences in knowledge sharing and community gathering. 
The identity had to elevate and engage ‘place’ with empathy, deep respect and understanding of the rich cultural significance of Traditional Owners’ narratives, while inviting all to experience and connect the precinct with new thinking and perspectives. 
How did the brand development process unfold? 
There has been much collaboration across the journey. 
The Contenders
 were selected as the preferred agency partner to collaborate with and see the work through. We had a very clear vision on what we wanted the brand to achieve and they visually brought this to life. We actively engaged 
Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation (WTOAC)
 in the brand development process. 
The Wadawurrung gifted the name Nyaal Banyul for the venue. The gifted name, story and meaning was a key input into the brief for brand development. Their feedback in our very early stages was important to ensure concepts respectfully represented and honoured the gifted name. We used the architectural concepts from Plenary Group to draw inspiration in and to ensure that the brand could be connected with a sense on place. 
There is a strong narrative behind the gifted name Nyaal Banyul. How did this narrative inspire the development of the brand?
In Wadaurrung language, Nyaal Banyul means “open your eyes to the hills”. The Wadaurrung Traditional Owners gifted this name because they want all who visit the venue to appreciate the diverse beauty and landscape of Wadaurrung Country in Djilang/Geelong. There is so much to see from the location in which Nyaal Banyul is being built. 
Yes, it’s on the stunning waterfront, but if you keep looking beyond, you see the Wurdi Youang (Youyang) and the Anakie Youang in the north, over Moolap fishing place to the Bellawiyn (Bellarine) in the east, the hill at Fyansford in the west and the Barrabul (Barrabool) hills in the south. 
Through this, we are extending the message and asking visitors to look beyond the immediate, to listen, to learn, to keep an open mind, to linger longer, to form new connections and to leave having gained a new perspective. 
Talk us through the design choices behind the logo and visual identity.
In collaboration with The Contenders, we crafted a bold logo inspired by Nyaal Banyul. Representing the hills, layers of Country and shaped like an eye, it symbolises gaining a new perspective and appreciating our surroundings. 
Colours of Sunrise orange, Sunset purple, and Dusk blue embody the shades of the sky visible from the venue. From the soft tones of sunrise to the vibrant hues of sunset, standing in this part of Country invites visitors to look to the hills and open their eyes to the beauty of Wadawurrung Country.
What do you hope people will carry with them after engaging with the brand and visiting the future venue? 
We want to create a space for belonging and gathering, where individuals can not only share and seek knowledge but also be inspired by the diversity of landscape and cultural heritage surrounding us. 
It’s still early days, and there is more to come, but each Nyaal Banyul touchpoint will be considered. Everything will feel connected, from finding intrigue through our digital content to a generous service philosophy to the local community of suppliers and providores to our spaces inspired by First Nations storytelling. It’s an honour to create a brand with deep meaning and purpose for Nyaal Banyul, leading with story of Country and reflecting the vibrant energy of Djilang/Geelong.
In what way does Nyaal Banyul become a part of Geelong and the surrounding region?
In some ways, Nyaal Banyul is already part of Djilang/Geelong. It has been a gathering place for Traditional Owners for thousands of years. It has been a place where many have gathered to yarn, celebrate, share songs and dance, trade, make decisions, solve problems and pass on knowledge. Through Nyaal Banyul, we will continue that tradition, and we look forward to inviting all to engage with the brand and experience the venue when it opens in 2026. 

Stay connected with Nyaal Banyul
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Creating a brand for a venue two years before opening is challenging. How do you design elements that grab attention and leave a lasting impression?

A Peek into the Brand Identity of Nyaal Banyul

Minister for Regional Development Harriet Shing, Federal Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Kristy McBain, and City of Greater Geelong Mayor Trent Sullivan joined Wadawurrung Elders, family and staff to announce the centre will be named Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre. 
The name Nyaal Banyul means: ‘open your eyes to the hills.’ The name is made up of two Wadawurrung words – nyaal, meaning to open your eyes, and banyul, meaning hill. This name was chosen to encourage people at the site to take time to appreciate the landscapes of Wadawurrung Country.
The Western Beach cliffs are a cultural and spiritual place for Wadawurrung People. From the site, Wurdi Youang (You Yangs) and Anakie Youang can be seen to the north, while the hills of the Bellawiyn (Bellarine) can be found to the east, the Fyansford hill to the west and the Barrabul (Barrabool) hills to the south.
The Victorian Government is investing more than $260 million to build the Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre precinct as part of the Geelong City Deal, with additional contributions of $30 million from the Australian Government and $3 million from the City of Greater Geelong.
The consortium, Plenary Conventions is delivering the project and will work with the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation to embed its culture, values, and knowledge into the building and public realm as part of a co-design approach.
The naming also marks the return of events and celebration to the site which was historically a gathering place known as baierr. The new name also encapsulates the range of events the centre will host.
The Corporation will also work with the future operators of the centre, the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust, to celebrate and educate the public on Wadawurrung cultural history.
Construction of the purpose-built convention and event centre will commence soon and will be complete in 2026. The Centre will host a range of events from large corporate, sporting and entertainment events to international music and trade shows, through to public exhibitions.
The precinct includes, a 1000 seat venue, two large exhibition spaces, meeting rooms, conference facilities and flexible event spaces. It will also be home to retail spaces for food and beverage, a large public plaza and a 200-room hotel under the internationally renowned Crowne Plaza brand. 
Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre will be a major driver of jobs and economic growth for the City of Greater Geelong, supporting 600 jobs during construction and an additional 270 ongoing jobs once the precinct is complete.
The precinct development is the centrepiece of the Geelong City Deal - a $500+ million commitment between the Australian and Victorian governments and the City of Greater Geelong.
The Geelong City Deal is revitalising the city and regional economy, encouraging visitors to spend more time in the region by capitalising on its natural assets.
For more information on the Geelong City Deal and precinct visit:  
infrastructure.gov.au/territories-regions-cities/cities


Quotes attributable to Victorian Minister for Regional Development Harriet Shing 
“I am so honoured that the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation has gifted the name Nyaal Banyul to this transformative convention and event centre in Geelong.” 
“There is a long and significant cultural history with the site which we want to recognise through the design, construction and operations of this significant project for Geelong.” 

Quote attributable to the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation Interim CEO Liam Murphy 

“Naming in Wadawurrung language is a process only Wadawurrung Traditional Owners can do and we are grateful to have been given the opportunity to return language to Country.” 
”We also appreciate being invited to provide design principles to inform the concept of the GCEC on this part of Country, as the Western Beach cliffs, holds special cultural value to Wadawurrung.” 

Quotes attributable to City of Greater Geelong Mayor Cr Trent Sullivan

“Council is proud to celebrate the region’s strong First Nations heritage when naming its own buildings and facilities."
“It’s exciting that this centrepiece venue will further educate locals about the history and ongoing culture of the Wadawurrung people.” 

Quotes attributable to Chief Executive of Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre Natalie O’Brien AM

“As the future operators of Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre, continuous engagement with the Wadawurrung community is an important focus for MCET.” 
“We seek to strengthen our relationship with and honour First Nations knowledge, heritage and truth-telling in the venue’s brand, throughout the centre and in future operations.”

The Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation is renaming the Geelong Convention and Exhibition Centre, restoring Wadawurrung language to country,

Geelong’s Future Convention Centre to be Named Nyaal Banyul

Minister for Regional Development Harriet Shing joined City of Greater Geelong Mayor Trent Sullivan to announce Plenary Conventions has been appointed to lead the project and will soon start on what will be one of the biggest developments in regional Victoria.
The Victorian Government is investing more than $260 million into the project as part of the Geelong City Deal, with additional contributions of $30 million from the Australian Government and $3 million from the City of Greater Geelong. 
The Plenary Conventions consortium will transform the 1.6-hectare waterfront car parking site into a precinct that welcomes locals and visitors alike as part of the Public Private Partnership.  The consortium comprises the Plenary Group as sponsor and investor, Built as builder, Woods Bagot as architect, BGIS as services contractor and Quintessential Equity as developer. 
The development of this world-class facility and precinct has included extensive stakeholder consultation and ongoing work with the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation on critical aspects of the precinct’s design, identity and recognition of local cultural heritage.
It will include the construction of the purpose-built convention and exhibition space, incorporating a 1000 seat venue, two large exhibition spaces, meeting rooms, conference facilities and flexible event spaces. 
The precinct will also be home to retail spaces for food and beverage offerings and a large public plaza that promises to become a feature of the Geelong waterfront. In a boost for Geelong’s up-market accommodation stocks the development will also include a 200-room hotel under the internationally renowned Crowne Plaza brand. 
The investment will be a major driver of jobs and economic growth for the City of Greater Geelong and surrounding areas. It will support 600 jobs during construction and an additional 270 ongoing jobs once the precinct is complete.
To ensure lasting benefits to the region beyond the centre itself, the Government is supporting local organisation gforce to recruit up to 30 new local apprentices and trainees who are experiencing disadvantage in entering the workforce.  
Apprentices will be employed full time for the duration of their apprenticeship and until they secure full time employment with private contractors.
The Plenary Conventions consortium has a proven track record developing and maintaining the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre and enhancing the South Wharf precinct for nearly 20 years.
The Trust that operates Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre will also manage and operate the new Geelong Convention and Exhibition Centre, once complete. The two centres will cement Victoria as a premier global destination for events.
Preliminary works on the site are underway and construction is set to begin shortly, with completion of the convention centre and hotel in early 2026.
The precinct development is the centrepiece of the Geelong City Deal - a $500+ million commitment between the Australian and Victorian governments and the City of Greater Geelong. It is revitalising the city and regional economy, encouraging visitors to spend more time in the region by capitalising on its natural assets. 
For more information on the Geelong City Deal and precinct visit:  
infrastructure.gov.au/territories-regions-cities/cities

 
Quotes attributable to Victorian Minister for Regional Development Harriet Shing

“With a waterfront precinct that rivals any in the country, this convention centre precinct will add to Geelong’s status as a UNESCO City of Design, and attract even more people to come and explore all this wonderful city has to offer.”

“Delivering the project will also be a major boost to the region, generating hundreds of jobs and injecting millions of dollars into the local economy.”

Quote attributable to Federal Minister for Regional Development Catherine King

“The City of Geelong has undergone significant growth in recent years. This development will build on its reputation as a business and sporting powerhouse in regional Victoria.”
Quotes attributable to City of Greater Geelong Mayor Cr Trent Sullivan

"This centrepiece project will take our business and short-stay offering to a new level, deliver a wide range of opportunities for existing local businesses, and expand our labour market.”

Quotes attributable to Chief Executive of Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre Natalie O’Brien AM

“We’re looking forward to leveraging MCET’s experience, capability and global networks to bring a host of exciting and important events to Geelong, and working with the community to grow the region’s well-earned reputation as a destination. Each event we host at the centre will benefit a local ecosystem of hoteliers, event organisers, food providores, tourism operators, suppliers and so much more.” 



The Geelong Convention and Exhibition Centre precinct development is a step closer to reality with the selection of the preferred bidder to deliver the much-anticipated project, along with the unveiling today of proposed designs.