business and investment through revitalisation Central Geelong is undergoing a remarkable transformation as it is revitalised with projects aimed to enhance the quality of life in Central Geelong to attract more people Djilang is the traditional Wadawurrung name for Geelong At the heart of Geelong is Central Geelong Central Geelong is home to 16,000 people and 60,000 jobs high amenity lifestyle and clever and creative culture The Central Geelong Framework Plan - A plan for the heart of Djilang (2023) sets a clear vision over 30 years to guide growth and development to support 60,000 jobs and 16,000 residents in Geelong’s city centre by 2050 use and development in the city as a hub of jobs It supports the continued improvement to the city’s streets The Plan includes built form controls that provide for 1.67 million square metres of new floorspace to accommodate future residential and commercial growth By managing the form and scale of buildings high quality design outcomes will drive the evolution of Central Geelong’s character overtime while protecting its existing assets and respecting its past The Framework Plan will be monitored and reviewed as needed enabling it to continue to deliver the necessary growth and development expectations over time The Revitalising Central Geelong (RCG) Partnership meets regularly and is comprised of officers from state government departments and agencies the City of Greater Geelong and the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation The RCG Partnership has managed the delivery of the 2016 Action Plan and now is coordinating the delivery of the Central Geelong Framework Plan Projects already happening that have been supported by the RCG Partnership include the next stages of the Malop Street Green Spine the future Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre and other projects through the Geelong City Deal Some of the key outcomes achieved so far include: Geelong’s Laneways Action Plan aims to create new pathways and improve connectivity throughout the city By enhancing existing lanes and introducing new corridors the plan will play a vital role in boosting Geelong's liveability and economic prosperity The Market Street Laneway Breakthrough is the next major project in Geelong’s laneway development this new pedestrian link will connect Market Street to Union Street creating a welcoming passage that enhances the area's urban quality and the potential for event and commercial activity The open-to-sky laneway will provide a mid-block encouraging people to walk through the city with intuitive wayfinding The Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre(opens in a new window) is under construction and will open in 2026 the purpose-built convention and exhibition space conference facilities and flexible event spaces The Geelong Waterfront Safe Harbour Precinct Project has been divided into two stages Stage 1 is now complete with the 440 metre wave attenuator Wangum Walk opened for public access in 2021 Stage 2 is underway which includes a new Victorian Sailing School and public realm upgrades This project is part of the Geelong City Deal with the Royal Geelong Yacht Club making a significant financial contribution The Moolap Coastal Strategic Framework Plan (Moolap Plan)(opens in a new window) was approved in 2019 Implementation of the Moolap Plan includes the preparation of an Environmental Management Masterplan to guide the design and management of the wetlands and former saltworks The Management Masterplan will identify the long-term layout Geelong’s laneway network was expanded as Dennys Place was extended from Malop Street through to Little Malop Street Laneways make it easier to move around and improve the connectivity of a city The Dennys Place passage better links the Malop Street Green Spine the city’s waterfront and the university precinct with Little Malop Street’s thriving shops The Dennys Place laneway also improves pedestrian access for thousands of office workers from the WorkSafe and NDIA head offices as they frequent the popular Little Malop Street alfresco precinct The Green Spine project creates a vibrant linear park along the length of Malop Street connecting Johnstone Park and Eastern Park Completed elements have been funded through the Geelong City Deal The Green Spine connects Johnstone Park to Eastern Park and the Botanical Gardens via six blocks along Malop Street The project reclaims Malop Street as a pedestrian and active transport zone providing enhanced alfresco and social opportunities a safer cycling route spanning the length of the Green Spine and delivering a unique and distinctive streetscape showcasing Geelong’s UNESCO City of Design status Some phases of this project are yet to be delivered Details on when these phases will be delivered will be announced when known This project is being delivered in a series of blocks: Block 1 – Gheringhap Street to Moorabool Street (north side complete) Block 2 – Moorabool Street to Yarra Street (complete) Block 3 – Yarra Street to Bellerine Street (south side complete) Block 4 – Bellerine Street to Swanston Street (TBC delivery) Block 5 – Swanston Street to Fitzroy Street (TBC delivery) Block 6 – Fitzroy Street to Garden Street (TBC delivery) The Geelong Authority was created to advise the Minister for Planning on strategies to attract investment to Central Geelong and on major planning applications to help create jobs and drive growth in Geelong The Geelong Authority is bound by the Terms of Reference Please email geelong@transport.vic.gov.au for further information. Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj outside Market Square The initiative will apply to all two-hour parking bays across the city with each road user eligible for a single two-hour allotment of free parking per day will be monitored by technology already available to the city Speaking ahead of Tuesday’s council meeting Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said the initiative was one the city could introduce immediately to support the CBD’s struggling retailers while the organisation continues to advocate for the revitalisation of the precinct “We want to stimulate people coming back into the CBD and parking is seen as a real barrier particularly when you compare it to Pakington Street High Street [in] Belmont [and] Highton Village The proposal comes as the city celebrates a breakthrough in talks with Davinski Nominees the Singapore-based owners of Market Square with a mixed-use concept that includes commercial opportunities and high-rise residential spaces to be maintained for the precinct “They’ve gone away back to Singapore to think about that and to work up some concepts,” Cr Kontelj said “The next action would be that we have another follow up meeting and just see what they’re thinking.” He said the involvement of Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles in the meeting with the site’s owners earlier this month “I’m feeling encouraged that we’ll see something very good happen there just refurbishing what’s there and putting tenants in there won’t do at all.” similar in nature to Tasmania’s Salamanca Market could also be on the horizon for Little Malop Street between Yarra Street and Moorabool Street attract people and give a sense that things are on the move in the CBD,” Cr Kontelj said Geelong mayor aims to build a vision for Geelong’s CBD as he brings Market Square owners together with developers and planners to knock down barriers to progress Please call us on 1800 070 535 and we’ll help resolve the issue or try again later Any Questions? Please call 1800 070 535 Saturday & Sunday 7:00am – 11:30am (AEST) Belchers Corner on the intersection of Ryrie and Moorabool Streets is listed for sale as a development opportunity A landmark Geelong CBD property where a building was forcibly demolished by the local council has been put up for sale as a mixed use development opportunity The campaign to sell the property markets a step toward a long awaited new chapter for the landmark Belchers Corner at the intersection of Ryrie St and Moorabool St The corner has become a massive gap in the CBD landscape after the historic building was demolished under an order from Geelong’s council with a mural on the boundary hoarding the only effort to beautify the area RELATED: Custom Neon founder buys into Barwon Business Park Former city milk bar shrugs off eyesore tag with luxe conversion Geelong suburbs to get biggest boost from interest rates cut Now potential developers are seeing the beauty in the 1081sq m land area at 135 Ryrie St, Geelong, which has been listed for sale in a campaign managed by LAWD Development Transactions and Advisory directors Paul Callanan and Lukas Byrns. Expressions of interest are due to close on November 13 and the property is being quoted with price expectations from $4.5m to $5m. A hoarding sporting a mural painted by a local artist Vicki Clissold surrounds the vacant portion of the 1081sq m Belchers Corner property at 135 Ryrie St, Geelong. Mr Byrns said although the campaign was in early days, the property’s public listing had already attracted the attention of potential Geelong and Melbourne-based national developers. “It’s a great site. Obviously a prominent site and we’re really excited to bring it to market,” he said. The most likely end use would be a mixed use hotel or apartments with some ground and first-floor retail, Mr Byrns said. “We think there is a real opportunity for a significant retailer to go in there and we’re hoping that happens.” An image from real estate agents LAWD displasy the key position of Belcher’s Corner within Geelong’s CBD. Central Geelong has attracted significant interest from major developers with a development pipeline showing more than 2000 dwellings approved and close to 1000 delivered. Tower cranes again dot the skyline as several major CBD projects emerge from the ground. The property offers a 1081sq m land holding with a broad Activity Centre zoning and includes two existing buildings fronting each street. The development potential includes mixed uses such as residential, retail, education, medical, office and co-living, subject to council approval. Scaffolding being erected around the main Belchers Corner building ahead of its demolition. Picture: Alan Barber The site has a 67m street frontage on Ryrie and Moorabool streets in a prime location close to Market Square and Westfield Geelong shopping centres. According to the Central Geelong Framework Plan, the preferred building height on the site is 21m, within a guide that calls for street setbacks and limits to shadowing. Geelong’s council will keenly await the outcome of the sale, with legal provisions in place to recoup $4.1m spent to at first stabilise, monitor, report and ultimately demolish the main building. realcommercial.com.au is owned and operated by ASX-listed REA Group Ltd (REA:ASX) © REA Group Ltd By accessing or using our platform, you agree to our Terms of Use. RELATED: Custom Neon founder buys into Barwon Business Park Former city milk bar shrugs off eyesore tag with luxe conversion Geelong suburbs to get biggest boost from interest rates cut Now potential developers are seeing the beauty in the 1081sq m land area at 135 Ryrie St, Geelong, which has been listed for sale in a campaign managed by LAWD Development Transactions and Advisory directors Paul Callanan and Lukas Byrns. An image from real estate agents LAWD displasy the key position of Belcher’s Corner within Geelong’s CBD. CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced AEST = Australian Eastern Standard Time which is 10 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) A proposed design render of Market Square by Tract Consulting AS THE completion of the Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre nears the City of Greater Geelong is continuing to explore ideas to fast-track the revitalisation of the city’s CBD investors and developers came together earlier this month for a high-level forum to discuss the critical issues affecting central Geelong and share ideas to overcome them remain about how the city will navigate the redevelopment of the Market Square precinct which has been owned by Davinski Nominees since 1996 with calls increasing in recent years for the state government to compulsorily acquire the site Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said the council had “recommenced positive dialogue” with the Singapore-based group and was keen to work with them and other key players to redevelop the site “Market Square’s redevelopment is crucial for CBD revitalisation “We need more people living in central Geelong mixed-used redevelopment of Market Square has the potential to transform the culture of our CBD.” The forum comes as Committee for Geelong has unveiled its own vision for “a vibrant city heart for Geelong” to the public developed with the support of Tract Consulting It proposes the demolition of the precinct’s existing shopping centre refurbishment of the site’s heritage buildings and clock tower and the creation of a 5,000sqm green open public space capable of hosting weekend markets and live events that would extend the Little Malop Street dining precinct across Moorabool Street A high-rise apartment featuring more than 300 apartments and mixed-used spaces has also been proposed for the precinct’s current car park site which Committee for Geelong said will deliver “essential housing stock” to the CBD Committee chief executive Michael Johnston said central Geelong required a “bold and creative step” “Our city centre needs to be opened up to create a better flow the Little Malop entertainment and cultural precincts and the Ryrie Street dining and retail strip,” Johnston said “This vision provides this by creating the large public open space our city lacks.” He said Geelong lacked a “city heart” with Market Square the only place that “makes sense” for this to be located “The green heart will feed off the green spine and create urban renewal that can accommodate increased residential living in central Geelong “We know there are several projects that can’t get off the ground in the current environment a project that would unlock over $1 billion in investment.” A crowd of about 300 met in Johnstone Park joining thousands around the country in making a stance against “attacks on trans healthcare” in Queensland Gareth Kent takes us through the current state of Geelong CBD I am thrilled our new mayor has made the CBD his priority and so many are getting behind the push to do something about our CBD providing approximately 50,000sqm of retail space the Geelong CBD boasted only 30,000sqm of retail spread out along strips such as Moorabool Street Although Westfield did bring national retailers to Geelong it also sucked in a lot of the small boutique shops offering attractive rent-free options and promising increases in foot traffic Westfield reports its foot traffic is approximately 10 million individual shopping visits annually As predicted by many opponents of the development it has strangled the rest of the Geelong CBD robbing the town of the economic displacement the foot traffic between street retail creates The Geelong CBD was already suffering from the increased competition created by Waurn Ponds Shopping Centre which offers a greater car parking amenity easier access and a wider range of shopping the early 2000s saw significant growth in this space and this has been further accelerated throughout the lockdowns of COVID in 2020 Geelong CBD strip retail external to Westfield as a retail destination came to an end throughout 2010 through to 2016 and has not yet recovered TAC announced its move to Geelong from Melbourne and in 2021 NDIS set up its headquarters in Geelong with foot traffic being driven to the CBD for work work-from-home mandates robbed the town of its foot traffic the agencies have moved out of all the secondary offices leaving behind thousands of vacant office spaces Geelong now has about 25,000sqm of vacant office space and circa 20,000 sqm of vacant street retail It wasn’t all doom and gloom – the Geelong CBD had several heroes who put their own private money into trying to keep alive Perhaps the most significant contribution has been from The Batman Group and Bill Votsaris Purchasing nearly 65 retail buildings along the once derelict Little Malop street The Batman Group have given life to the Geelong hospitality strip between Gheringhap Others such as the Costa Group purchased buildings such as the Civic Carpark and continued to operate it for casual parking and I’m convinced they made this investment purely to support the Geelong CBD also purchased Thomas the Jewelers building the Regent Theatre and the Bryant Hitchcock building These buildings are all under refurbishment while they look to find viable tenants There are others who have invested in the Geelong CBD but Geelong has seen little in government investment The Central Geelong Framework Plan spent three years in bureaucratic limbo until being put into the planning scheme in 2022 The CGFP was done to give guidance to developers in the hope increased development would bring residential buildings to the CBD and recreate the foot traffic loss there has been one privately owned residential development proceeding from planning to development There are several properties with permits for development Sales evidence from sold developments shows the mean sale price for apartments in Geelong is between $8,000 to $10,000 per square metre there are none progressing because people can’t see the value of living in Geelong CBD Something needs to be done to attract people to buy and live in the CBD There’s the potential to acquire Market Square and turn it into a public realm acquiring and knocking it down will have less impact on the businesses and designed open space could increase the attractiveness of living here it could host attractions in a natural amphitheatre providing a great place to sit and eat lunch Geelong’s new mayor has channelled his inner Trump promising to make the city’s CBD “great again” Members of The Outpost's board outside the service's new location on Little Ryrie Street THE Outpost said goodbye to its Busport building home of 20 years earlier this week after opening the doors of its new home to the community for the first time Now located at 42 Little Ryrie Street in Geelong’s CBD the not-for-profit organisation held its first dinner service on Sunday The charity remains Geelong’s only nightly non-referral homelessness service and will continue to serve meals to those in need and those experiencing the challenges of food insecurity 365 evenings a year now with meals cooked in The Outpost’s own kitchen a first for the organisation despite its 35-year history The new premise has a larger capacity than the charity’s former site on Brougham Street and features a community pantry where guests can access everyday essentials and a gathering space for social connection The Outpost took over the Little Ryrie Street site late last year initially with the aim of launching it to the public in mid-December and has been slowly transforming the space into what they describe as a “welcoming café-style setting” the organisation said the new space had been “designed with care” to ensure its new home is a “supportive community hub” that offers its guests “dignity we believe in empowering those we serve by offering vital resources knowledge and support to access nutritious food relief services and essential necessities in an environment that is warm “This new space reflects that commitment.” Geelong CBD Revitalization: Urgent action needed Learn about plans to transform Market Square and boost Geelong's core Hopefully some of you will be aware of my campaign over the last 12 months to bring awareness to and compel action on the state of Geelong CBD and Market Square Starting with a petition in September 2024 I have been advocating for the state government to use its powers to act A petition with more than 1,000 signatures led to a conversation with Committee for Geelong chief executive officer Michael Johnston who along with Simon Loader of Tract consulting had been working on their concept to revitalise the Geelong CBD and last week the “Market Square Concept Plan” was publicly delivered by the Committee for Geelong This visionary plan could be accomplished via a state government-led project potentially delivered by Regional Development Victoria or it could be a joint venture between our local government and a private development partner even the elusive owners of Market Square might think this idea has merit and help our town by delivering it The vision proposes demolishing the existing shopping centre and refurbishing the heritage buildings and clock tower on Moorabool It also includes creating a 5,000sqm green public space and extending the Little Malop Street dining precinct across Moorabool Street A high-rise apartment building on the current car park site with more than 300 apartments plus car parking and mixed-use spaces This will deliver essential housing stock for central Geelong Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj last week convened a forum to determine why none of the 20 approved planning permits for CBD developments are breaking ground it was understood the reason these potential developments are not being built is not planning issues but rather the realities that the value proposition for apartments in Geelong CBD is not there the current sad state of our CBD does not entice people to pay enough for apartments to warrant the costs of construction This led to the discussion on what could be done an architect and urban designer shared what the City of Melbourne achieved in the “Postcode 3000” project such as planting trees to provide beautiful canopies along streets to make liveability much better the City of Melbourne taking a risk to acquire certain key buildings and repurpose or redevelop them with public spaces and key components improved ultimately most of these ended up being sold back to the market for profit and noting issues with the current bus network and a lack of connectivity to other locations such as the Kardinia Park sports precinct or even to surrounding townships such as Bannockburn which currently has no public transport Also discussed was the simple stuff; way points from the train stations so that tourists and visitors can find their way to our best retail and hospitality strips more lighting at night to make people feel safe and a gangway for passenger ships so they could dock directly at Yarra pier and it was clear that it’s an election year Although each read out a commitment their parties had made to the region most projects had nothing to do with the Geelong CBD I was amused when one politician started their speech at 9.11am and then as soon as their speech was completed it’s time we made the politicians listen They need to stop and realise what’s important Our CBD needs significant investment now from all levels of government When the state government can announce $1.6 billion to be spent on a Regional Rail link why can’t we get that sort of commitment for the CBD of the second-largest city in the state and view the design vision for Market Square and get involved in the discussion Support people such as Michael Johnston and Stretch Kontelj who are providing leadership Geelong CBD is at a crunch point and many years of previous investment are about to be wasted if we do not take action Council elections are due to take place in November and I am encouraged to see that mayor Trent Sullivan is standing again I was sceptical when mayor Sullivan first took office seven years ago I wondered what this kid would do and how he would have enough knowledge or experience to make a difference having observed him as a councillor and now the mayor He brings energy to his post and has an exuberance to serve the people As the mayor of Geelong his office represents all of us to go and ‘’knock on the door’’ of the owners of Market Square The two of them arrived in Singapore for the pre-arranged meeting Whether you love our mayor and CEO or disklike them to disrespect them in such a way is to disrespect the whole town I want you to join me and advocate to all levels of government; feds to support a compulsory acquisition of Market Square The government has the power to compulsorily acquire a property for a public purpose and we deserve to see those powers exercised this would mean we would pay the owners compensation this is likely to be in the order of circa $90 million-$100 million and that is based upon the land value of the site alone putting very little regard to the existing buildings This purchase would require the backing of the federal and state governments buildings demolished and a public-owned park similar to Fed Square in Melbourne established this development must provide two or three levels of underground parking providing at least 1,000 car spaces in the Geelong CBD it should be architecturally designed to demonstrate that Geelong is a City of Design we are looking for a $200 million-$300 million investment We are creating our long overdue “Geelong Heart”’ that will change and unite our town with a proper centre It should have a stage and screen in the middle and be used for hosting events It would bring alive the streets of Little Malop creating much-needed frontage for retail and hospitality It would provide the much-needed car parking which would in turn fix the biggest problem with the Geelong CBD its 25,000sqm of vacant office spaces would be much more attractive to tenants It would be easier to shop and boutique retail would return I imagine the vista along Little Malop between Moorabool and Yarra to be completely transformed a late-night experience similar to Manly in Sydney hospitality venues opening onto the streets We could tie the square in with our strong local diverse cultures inviting these groups to host events in the square on alternative weeks the new ‘’City Heart’’ would be a connecting point It would tie the (under construction) convention centre back into the town and it would connect that infrastructure with the hospitality and retail sections of the city It would provide a space for people to spend time and a reason to live in the CBD This would boost the value of inner-city apartments and make developments near the CBD viable going a long way towards reaching our required housing targets Let’s make our unhappiness known that these owners would treat our Mayor and our position on this abandoned space with such disrespect Let’s take possession of this property and fix the problems of the Geelong CBD in one swoop Join me in voting on the online petition at change.org by heading to chng.it/SPr5pnZRHx G21's federal election priorities include $150 million of investment in central Geelong to unlock over $1 billion in potential private sector spending THE G21 Geelong Region Alliance and its leaders have outlined the critical investment priorities the Geelong region needs in the lead up to this year’s federal election The new advocacy booklet “Unlocking the future for G21 communities” lists three areas “that will address our challenges and support our growth” and will be provided to all candidates contesting the election “It’s no secret that housing supply is urgently needed and delivering more affordable living options in Geelong city centre is essential to boosting our supply Increasing our housing supply in the city centre is also how we create a city where more of our population growth is happening in the city – which will have immense flow on benefits for business hospitality and retail activity,” Committee for Geelong chief executive officer Michael Johnston said “The Avalon Employment precinct and airport needs major infrastructure upgrades to attract investment and reach its potential as a global gateway to our region.” The joint priorities were identified by the region’s mayors key public and private sector leaders and the Committee for Geelong This is the fastest growing region in Victoria and Geelong is one of the fastest growing cities in Australia,” G21 CEO Giulia Baggio said “We need major investment from Canberra to keep pace with our communities We call on all federal representatives to work with us during this election period to help deliver the funding and partnership needed to lock in decent living standards for the long term “We are advocating with a unified voice for much-needed housing supply across the region especially in central Geelong to stimulate the city’s vibrancy; a dedicated well-serviced employment zone at Avalon to boost our major industries and good quality jobs; and a modern water grid which will guarantee supply for homes farms and wetlands as our environment becomes drier right across the southwest region.” A date for the federal election has not yet been set but the latest day a typical simultaneous half-Senate and House of Representatives election can take place is May 17 As shops continue to vacate Geelong's Market Square there's a push to have the building acquired and turned into a city heart A RECENT push to redevelop Geelong’s Market Square into a city heart is gaining support within the region with many local businesses getting behind and supporting the idea would see the largely empty shopping centre acquired for public open space transforming it into a piazza similar to Melbourne’s Federation Square to acquire it without impacting many businesses and make it the location of Geelong’s City Heart.” Mr Kent said “It would be the catalyst to revitalise the entire Geelong CBD it would provide much-needed public open space “Something like this would greatly assist the developers who are trying to sell apartments in the CBD whom have been unable to meet sales targets to get those developments out of the ground the CBD is currently not providing a hospitable place to live.” The Central Geelong Framework Plan delivered by the Victorian government in February 2023 was designed to encourage development by providing clear development controls within the CBD The plan was designed to support 30 years of growth enabling space for 60,000 jobs and 16,000 residents by 2050 but there has only been one privately funded development since then “It is not currently viable for private development to proceed in Geelong because the offering is not good enough,” Mr Kent said “We have before us a great opportunity to change the Geelong CBD and it will require significant investment from all levels of government by thinking big and demanding our government to act now we can use the powers of the Compulsory Land and acquisition Act to acquire Market Square for public purpose.” He also highlighted Geelong is Australia’s only UNESCO City of Design and he would like to see the final design of the Geelong City Heart reflect this The design could include a natural amphitheater for use by diverse cultural groups and be used by the City of Greater Geelong marketing team to host artists and events “What is required is similar thinking and investment that our city applied to the development of the Geelong waterfront,” Mr Kent said The community has rallied behind the concept with Mr Kent’s petition garnering more than 600 signatures in recent weeks Mr Kent said the redevelopment would provide Geelong with an essential focus point and a trigger that developers could “hitch their wagons to” and get them building apartments Gross realisation within Geelong hasn’t changed from 2019 resulting in construction costs outweighing the return “Developers are crying out for help and they’re crying out for a reason to build in Geelong,” Mr Kent said Market Square would need to be purchased through compulsory acquisition Mr Kent estimated this would cost between $200 million to 300 million with funding needed from all levels of government for Geelong’s inner-city population to increase “We’re not going to have inner-city living when developments aren’t feasible because the location isn’t hospitable we need to be doing something and it’s time.” For more information and to sign the petition, head to chng.it/SPr5pnZRHx and you’ll witness the new face of Victoria’s second major city The vibrant strip is the kind of destination any capital would be proud to claim hole-in-the-wall restaurants and life in general it’s a testament to the civic foresight that turned a narrow street dominated by historic shopfronts into a pedestrian precinct Little Malop isn’t Geelong’s only food and drink precinct Pakington Street – known locally as “Pako” which runs the length of Newtown to Geelong West – and Ryrie Street are rival dining destinations just a short drive away But as Geelong Cellar Door owner Jon Helmer notes Little Malop benefits doubly by being set back only a few blocks back from Corio Bay and boasting the Geelong Arts Centre at its end “We get caught out if we don’t pay attention and notice when there’s a show on,” he says the Cellar Door is a place to taste your way around the greater Geelong wine region “People were more familiar with the wines of the Mornington Peninsula or the Yarra Valley when I opened,” he says “I decided to be the guy that champions Geelong wines across our three separate sub-regions.” Geelong is cresting the wave of opportunity generated by the relocation of many government offices the National Disability Insurance Agency and Ports Victoria have all taken up residence in the past 20 years along with Deakin University expanding its existing campuses in the area Geelong’s laid-back lifestyle remains an object of envy to people stuck in traffic-jammed Melbourne “We might have an intense 30 minutes around 5pm,” says Helmer with Adam Natonewski from Ray White Highton Aberfeldie: Life in the Toorak of the north-west The wine-loving country town good enough for Ned Kelly You can’t go past the guys at Bluebird Sandwiches in the Highton Village. It’s run by brothers who have grown it into a thriving breakfast and lunch hub with exceptional coffee. They’re also very inclusive; providing opportunities for people on the spectrum is a great initiative. I have always had a soft spot for Grosvenor Drive in Wandana Heights: Its quality-built homes are typically quite contemporary in design and arguably have the best views in Geelong. Montrose Place in Highton also has a high calibre of homes looking over the majestic Barwon River. For a fancy feed, I would recommend Meet Me At Mary’s or Squires Loft for great decor in an intimate setting with quality food and wine. I have four children who enjoy a little spice; our go-to is Shiraaz Indian Restaurant in central Geelong for the best butter chicken. The information on this website is intended to be of a general nature only and doesn't consider your objectives, financial situation or needs. where we are privileged to live and operate A family-owned gem nestled in the city’s vibrant CBD inviting atmosphere that captures the essence of Italy making it the perfect spot for everything from a romantic dinner to a grand celebration Centra’s menu brings together the best of modern rustic Italian fare with delicious dishes made on-site using only the freshest From handmade pasta to wood-fired pizzas and decadent desserts Massimo and his team create authentic dishes that bring Italy’s culinary traditions to life in every bite Keep up with the latest food and booze news across the region here A post shared by Forte Magazine (@forte_mag) But it’s not just the food that makes Centra special Their impressive selection of wines and spirits Kate’s carefully selected list features both local and imported wines with occasional special pairings and tastings offered on weekends—ideal for wine enthusiasts looking to explore new flavours The space at Centra is just as thoughtfully designed as the menu the hotel offers a perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional charm while the various dining and function areas ensure there’s something for every occasion Whether you’re enjoying a casual meal in the main dining room gathering with friends in the courtyard or laneway Centra has multiple spaces to cater to your needs complete with murals of ‘Italian Villages’ painted by local artist Vicki Clissold is a popular spot for dining in the sun or sipping wine while soaking in the relaxed atmosphere Centra Hotel also offers flexible function spaces perfect for events ranging from intimate gatherings to large celebrations the venue can accommodate any type of function making it an ideal choice for both social and corporate events Whether you’re here for a quiet dinner Centra Hotel offers an unforgettable experience So why not come in and enjoy a slice of Italy tonight The super site combines 7111sq m of land on the corner of McKillop A local buyer has landed a supersite on the fringe of Geelong’s CBD in what’s been described as the most significant commercial property sale since the Civic Centre car park in 2022 The 7111sq m property has been unlocked after owners Geelong Bank and gforce Employment and Recruitment combined eight titles at 33-41 McKillop St, 36-40 Lt Myers St and 107 Gheringhap St The property was expected to achieve circa $20m through the sale given recent prices for other development sites within the CBD RELATED: Grand plans for retirement living community at Highton Six bidders raise a hand for Belmont stunner Geelong’s best suburbs for buyers revealed Industry sources suggest it achieved a price close to that mark. Whether there’s significant development on the block with arterial road frontage depends on the purchaser’s plans, Darcy Jarman selling agent Tim Darcy said. Mr Darcy said he couldn’t reveal the identity of the buyer, a Geelong private investor, nor the final sale price. gforce Employment and Recruiting occupies the landmark building at the corner of Gheringhap and McKillop streets in Geelong. Mr Darcy and Andrew Prowse of Darcy Jarman and JLL’s Capital Markets Victoria team led by Josh Rutman, Mark Stafford and Jesse Radisich were conjunctional agents for the campaign. The supersite attracted interest from local, Melbourne and interstate parties. “We received six formal expressions of interest and we ultimately short-listed three parties and it was successfully acquired by a local private investor,” Mr Darcy said. But he said the quality of the buildings occupying the site meant the purchaser could draw a significant income in the short term while considering a longer-term vision. Geelong Bank evolved from the FCCS Credit Union which recently celebrated its 50th year. “They’re probably not looking to do a lot in the immediate to short term but they obviously have got very much an eye on the future with the site,” he said. Mr Darcy said the existing office buildings provided a “good haven” for a number of occupants. “Obviously, whether two vendors stay or move will play out in time,” he said. “There’s good value in the existing improvements. “That does ultimately provide the purchaser with the scope to bed it down with some income in the short to medium term.” The 7111sq m landholding is flat and in an elevated position on the edge of Geelong’s central business district. Mr Darcy said it was a significant transaction for Geelong. “No doubt the largest transaction that’s occurred within the city centre this year and probably since the council car park was sold probably 18 months ago,” he said. Costa Asset Management paid $22.6m for the Civic Car Park at a private auction in 2022, but confirmed it wasn’t the buyer in this case. “It clearly has a very strategic element to it. It’s going to provide a multitude of options long term in how it could be the redeveloped,” Mr Darcy said. The flat supersite occupies an elevated position, with potential for view lines over the Geelong CBD, Corio Bay and GMHBA Stadium from future developments, along with frontages to McKillop St, Gheringhap St, Little Myers St and access to Bambra St. The 7111sq m property has been unlocked after owners Geelong Bank and gforce Employment and Recruitment combined eight titles at 33-41 McKillop St, 36-40 Lt Myers St and 107 Gheringhap St RELATED: Grand plans for retirement living community at Highton Six bidders raise a hand for Belmont stunner Geelong’s best suburbs for buyers revealed Industry sources suggest it achieved a price close to that mark Whether there’s significant development on the block with arterial road frontage depends on the purchaser’s plans Mr Darcy said he couldn’t reveal the identity of the buyer gforce Employment and Recruiting occupies the landmark building at the corner of Gheringhap and McKillop streets in Geelong Mr Darcy and Andrew Prowse of Darcy Jarman and JLL’s Capital Markets Victoria team led by Josh Rutman Mark Stafford and Jesse Radisich were conjunctional agents for the campaign The supersite attracted interest from local “We received six formal expressions of interest and we ultimately short-listed three parties and it was successfully acquired by a local private investor,” Mr Darcy said But he said the quality of the buildings occupying the site meant the purchaser could draw a significant income in the short term while considering a longer-term vision Geelong Bank evolved from the FCCS Credit Union which recently celebrated its 50th year “They’re probably not looking to do a lot in the immediate to short term but they obviously have got very much an eye on the future with the site,” he said Mr Darcy said the existing office buildings provided a “good haven” for a number of occupants whether two vendors stay or move will play out in time,” he said “There’s good value in the existing improvements The 7111sq m landholding is flat and in an elevated position on the edge of Geelong’s central business district Mr Darcy said it was a significant transaction for Geelong “No doubt the largest transaction that’s occurred within the city centre this year and probably since the council car park was sold probably 18 months ago,” he said Costa Asset Management paid $22.6m for the Civic Car Park at a private auction in 2022 but confirmed it wasn’t the buyer in this case “It clearly has a very strategic element to it It’s going to provide a multitude of options long term in how it could be the redeveloped,” Mr Darcy said The flat supersite occupies an elevated position with potential for view lines over the Geelong CBD Corio Bay and GMHBA Stadium from future developments A classic Victorian-era layout ensured a long-held central Geelong house enjoyed most of the interest when neighbouring houses went to auction The three-bedroom house at 10 Sydney Ave sold for $700,000 making it one of the cheapest houses to sell this year in central Geelong where the median house price has just ticked over $1m A solitary bidder matched the top end of the quoted $645,000 to $700,000 price range to secure the property after the auction opened on a vendor bid RELATED: Highton backyard a slam dunk for family buyers ‘Cheap’ real estate tactic that could cost you big time Luxe private sanctuary aces chic industrial vibe The 289sq m property on the eastern fringe of Geelong’s CBD and near University Hospital was auctioned before the California bungalow clad in faux brick next door at 12 Sydney Ave was passed in without a bid There are character features inside the central Geelong home Geelong auctioneer Shaun Carroll said the house at 10 Sydney Ave was prized more among potential buyers due to its double-fronted layout The property also offered the buyer an off-street garage from a rear laneway “It had a bit more character or street appeal I think the floorplan was more a classic style with a central hallway and the bedrooms off that,” Mr Carroll said The buyer was expected to make improvements to the home Off-street parking in a rear garage was another bonus at 10 Sydney Ave “There is a heritage overlay on both properties so there’s a little bit of restriction in terms of what you can do but as long as you abide by the council rules you do can some pretty special things.” Mr Carroll said the properties had been rented out for a long time The home had been held by the same owner for 42 years with records showing it last sold in 1981 for $58,000 The suburb of Geelong’s median house price tipped over $1m in July Mr Carroll said most people who looked at the house were seeking the blue chip address for a chance to tackle the renovation work The house has a traditional layout with three bedrooms a central bathroom and a lounge positioned off a central hallway A kitchen meals area is tucked at the rear The back yard is also home to a private courtyard with an established lemon tree and a single garage accessed 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Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time The Market Square Shopping Centre should be a thriving retail destination At the heart of burgeoning Geelong – one of Australia’s fastest-growing regional cities – it is just a stroll from the glimmering waterfront Ratepayers Geelong spokesman Peter Mitchell at Market Square Shopping Centre.Credit: Jason South many shopfronts are covered in images of sweeping landscapes But many shops in the multi-level centre lie empty while graffiti on nearby buildings and a dingy bus station outside make for a cheerless welcome Most of Geelong’s residential growth is concentrated in its booming outer suburbs but there is a new push for high-density inner-city development The so-called Market Square Quarter site is set for transformation The City of Greater Geelong has proposed building heights reaching 12 storeys – more than double the existing level – including residences The exterior of Market Square.Credit: Jason South The council also wants to see new buildings up to 10 storeys in some surrounding suburbs – a stark departure from the existing low-level homes It has produced a draft plan for the Market Square Quarter which covers the mall and some neighbouring buildings “Redevelopment of the site would allow for significant contribution to central Geelong by providing in-demand housing Ratepayers Geelong spokesman Peter Mitchell said an overhaul was long overdue “Bringing people back here would be good,” Mitchell said adding that the bus interchange outside the Market Square entrance looked shabby and had a reputation for attracting loiterers One of the shuttered shopfronts outside Market Square Mitchell said the Westfield centre had dragged shoppers retailers and dollars away from Market Square and shifted the city centre north The City of Greater Geelong owned and managed Market Square until 1996 It is now owned by Singapore-based Davinski Nominees the company said COVID-19 had been damaging for retailers and also pointed to the poorly considered bus stop and “unsavoury social problems” “You only have to look at Moorabool Street in general to see what effect these factors have had on most retailers in the area,” it said in a statement Davinski Nominees said the council plans were worth exploring “in whatever form they can be achieved” The company also wants the bus stop moved – a position the Geelong council supports Retailers and town planners say a poorly located bus station has been bad for business in Geelong’s CBD Mayor Trent Sullivan said Market Square could become Geelong’s thriving heart but the bus station deterred retail tenants and should be relocated He insisted residential development was also a key part of the plan for the site The council estimates Geelong – which has a population of more than 280,000 – will attract another 110,000 people over the next 15 years “All of those people will need somewhere to live,” Sullivan said He said the council wanted to achieve an even split between new housing on undeveloped land and in existing urban areas “There is a shortage of townhouses and apartments that are affordable for people on lower incomes and suitable for people who need less space,” he said Geelong Chamber of Commerce chief executive Jeremy Crawford said Market Square needed a bold vision which would require substantial investment from both the owner and council “It needs some longer-term thinking and planning about what kind of precincts attract people and allow retail and hospitality to flourish,” he said whose Geelong-based development company owns three buildings next to Market Square said the city centre was the right place for high-rise buildings “We could do with taller buildings in the CBD and I don’t know why we’re afraid of doing it,” he said Hamilton’s buildings beside Market Square range in height from three to five storeys he said the above-ground levels had been vacant but for pigeons nesting Hamilton Group is planning to renovate them to attract high-end retail and hospitality tenants The council has also earmarked other areas for intensive development, including Pakington Street North in Geelong West, the former sale yards in North Geelong and at Waurn Ponds, where the Commonwealth Games athletes’ village was proposed before the event was scrapped The council last month endorsed a plan to allow high-density development up to 10 storeys at Pakington Street North though it will require approval from the state government Geelong Mayor Trent Sullivan.Credit: Eddie Jim Geelong West resident Jane Mooney said she was worried about excessive building heights in the low-level residential area and the effect they would have on traffic congestion and parking “The Geelong West area already suffers from traffic gridlock and high-density development will cause additional strain,” she said Sullivan said the framework for Pakington Street North was designed with community involvement “The building heights have been carefully considered and in general progressively become higher moving north away from the street’s heritage core,” he said The Morning Edition newsletter is our guide to the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up here At the heart of burgeoning Geelong \\u2013 one of Australia\\u2019s fastest-growing regional cities \\u2013 it is just a stroll from the glimmering waterfront Most of Geelong\\u2019s residential growth is concentrated in its booming outer suburbs The City of Greater Geelong has proposed building heights reaching 12 storeys \\u2013 more than double the existing level \\u2013 including residences The council also wants to see new buildings up to 10 storeys in some surrounding suburbs \\u2013 a stark departure from the existing low-level homes \\u201CRedevelopment of the site would allow for significant contribution to central Geelong by providing in-demand housing retail and office space,\\u201D the draft says \\u201CBringing people back here would be good,\\u201D Mitchell said the company said COVID-19 had been damaging for retailers and also pointed to the poorly considered bus stop and \\u201Cunsavoury social problems\\u201D \\u201CYou only have to look at Moorabool Street in general to see what effect these factors have had on most retailers in the area,\\u201D it said in a statement Davinski Nominees said the council plans were worth exploring \\u201Cin whatever form they can be achieved\\u201D The company also wants the bus stop moved \\u2013 a position the Geelong council supports Mayor Trent Sullivan said Market Square could become Geelong\\u2019s thriving heart The council estimates Geelong \\u2013 which has a population of more than 280,000 \\u2013 will attract another 110,000 people over the next 15 years \\u201CAll of those people will need somewhere to live,\\u201D Sullivan said \\u201CThere is a shortage of townhouses and apartments that are affordable for people on lower incomes and suitable for people who need less space,\\u201D he said \\u201CIt needs some longer-term thinking and planning about what kind of precincts attract people and allow retail and hospitality to flourish,\\u201D he said \\u201CWe could do with taller buildings in the CBD and I don\\u2019t know why we\\u2019re afraid of doing it,\\u201D he said Hamilton\\u2019s buildings beside Market Square range in height from three to five storeys The council has also earmarked other areas for intensive development including Pakington Street North in Geelong West the former sale yards in North Geelong and at Waurn Ponds where the Commonwealth Games athletes\\u2019 village was proposed before \\u201CThe Geelong West area already suffers from traffic gridlock and high-density development will cause additional strain,\\u201D she said \\u201CThe building heights have been carefully considered and in general progressively become higher moving north away from the street\\u2019s heritage core,\\u201D he said The Morning Edition newsletter is our guide to the day\\u2019s most important and interesting stories It is hoped the new Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre will attract major national and international events to Geelong it will house the region's largest hotel – the 200-room Crowne Plaza hotel THE City of Greater Geelong has its eyes set firmly on bringing a five-star brand resort to the region as it works to address an estimated overnight accommodation shortage of 1,000 beds Tourism Greater Geelong and the Bellarine’s (TGGB) 2023-24 annual report revealed a record 6.4 million tourists travelled to the region last financial year resulting in 6 million overnight stays and contributing $1.83 billion to the local economy This marks a 16 per cent increase on last financial year and a 67 per cent increase on pre-pandemic levels figures that suggest the city is well on its way to reaching its targeted $2.1 billion visitor economy by 2032 Speaking at the council’s December meeting Cr Trent Sullivan noted two new hotels had recently opened in Geelong’s CBD but more needed to be done to address the ongoing overnight accommodation shortage as tourism continues to boom across the region “Geelong is growing not as a drive-through destination but as an overnight destination in its own right,” he said Cr Anthony Aitken celebrated TGGB’s operating surplus of $22,000 over the past financial year but noted the region’s tourism and hospitality sector remains under significant pressure with several local businesses experiencing a significant decrease in turnover over the past eight months this decrease could be as large as 35 per cent “We’ve had a 16 per cent increase in our tourism spend across the whole of the region but we should acknowledge that individual operators are actually finding it very tough at the present time and it all relates to the cost of living and the pullback of expenditure that’s occurring,” Cr Aitken said He said the focus of the city’s tourism strategy remained on trying to attract international and interstate travellers to Geelong to help ease the “significant” pressures currently plaguing the local market in a joint statement with executive director Tracy Carter acknowledged the many challenges facing the sector shifting consumer behaviour and workplace shortages but said the growth in visitors was “encouraging” “There are strong indicators of green shoots ahead as we meet the new season “We’ve seen the consolidation of flights at Avalon Airport the completion of the Joel Selwood Stands at GMHBA Stadium and the rapid progress of the new Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre “And… 1,000 new rooms have either been added approved or commenced construction to meet future demand “We will continue to advocate for the needs of our industry ensuring that the voices of our operators are heard and supported as we work towards building a resilient and valued visitor economy we can all be proud of.” The writing is literally on the wall in Geelong’s CBD Geelong deputy mayor Anthony Aitken with a draft of the economy plan 'Geelong on the Rise' THE City of Greater Geelong has adopted a new 10-year economic development plan that seeks to launch the city onto the national and international stage With the population forecast to hit 400,000 by 2041 the ‘Geelong on the Rise’ plan aims to provide new opportunities for the region’s residents add 55,000 jobs and increase the gross regional product by $9.7 billion Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan said Geelong’s strategic location innovative businesses and research facilities provided the municipality with “competitive advantages” The plan seeks to better leverage these advantages against the city’s “clever and creative” aspirations to deliver a more sustainable resilient and future-focused economy for the region “Greater Geelong boasts the fastest population growth in Victoria and second fastest in Australia and the fastest jobs growth of all regional cities,” Cr Sullivan said “We need to keep the momentum going and leverage the knowledge creativity and strengths of our community and industries to develop a more resilient and adaptive economy “Opportunities for future growth span advanced manufacturing and creative industries and digital technologies.” Some of the actions outlined in the plan include: ‘Geelong on the Rise’ has been shaped by more than 100 local business and industry representatives with public consultation held in April and May this year Several additional considerations highlighted by respondents during the consultation period attracting more events to the region and enhancing liveability Deputy mayor Anthony Aitken said ‘Geelong on the Rise’ would help to grow diversify and future-proof the region’s economy “We’ve honed in on our region’s unique strengths capabilities and key industries where we have competitive advantage that can be leveraged to deliver an international-scale clever and creative city,” he said “‘Geelong on the Rise’ is supported by a detailed action plan for council and partner delivery over the next 10 years.” a number of residents in Geelong’s northern suburbs have said the cost of accessing the Norlane Aquatic Recreation Centre is prohibitive Any Questions? Please call 1800 070 535. Monday to Friday 7:30am – 6:00pm, Saturday & Sunday 7:00am – 11:30am (AEST) Walking through to central Geelong’s restaurant and retail precinct is about to get easier with work to open up Denny’s Place laneway now underway thanks to the backing of all levels of government State Member for Geelong Christine Couzens Federal Senator for Victoria Sarah Henderson and City of Greater Geelong Mayor Stephanie Asher today marked the start of work that will create direct access between Malop Street and Little Malop Street The building at 28 Malop Street will be partially demolished Denny’s Place will be well-lit with greenery and art to attract more people to central Geelong and support new and existing businesses Pedestrians will be able to walk directly from the business precinct to the hospitality precinct increasing foot traffic and breathing new life to the city Geelong-based builder Rendine Constructions is set to complete the work by mid-late 2022 The project has received $2.7 million from the State Government and another $1.35 million from the Geelong City Deal (GCD) – a $382 million 10-year partnership between the Australian and Victorian governments The project also involves Revitalising Central Geelong – a Victorian Government and City of Greater Geelong partnership to give Geelong a vibrant city centre For more information on the Geelong City Deal visit www.infrastructure.gov.au/cities/city-deals/geelong/. Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Communications, Urban Infrastructure, Cities and the Arts, The Hon Paul Fletcher MP: “This project is another example of the Geelong City Deal delivering lasting community infrastructure that will enhance the city’s liveability, support jobs and help boost the local economy.” Quotes attributable to Victorian Minister for Regional Development, The Hon Mary-Anne Thomas MP: “Expanding Geelong’s laneways will bring more life to an important pocket of the city – it’s a major win for local workers as well as visitors to the CBD.” “Denny’s Place is about building new connections, more attractions and creating important local jobs.” Quotes attributable to Senator for Victoria, the Hon Sarah Henderson: “This is a very exciting part of the Geelong City Deal.  Not only will the extended Denny’s Place provide vital connectivity through Geelong’s CBD, it will also do much to beautify this part of Geelong.   It is wonderful to see the revitalisation of central Geelong, with so much support from the Morrison Government. With Rendine the project builders, the Denny’s Place Laneway Breakthrough will deliver construction jobs and drive more economic activity in central Geelong.” Quote attributable to State Member for Geelong, The Hon Christine Couzens MP: “More people are recognising Geelong as a great place to live, work and invest.” “Better pedestrian access to central Geelong’s restaurants, bars and shops will be particularly good for the city centre’s night-time economy. I’m excited to see the impact on current and future businesses.” Quotes attributable to City of Greater Geelong Mayor, Stephanie Asher: “New laneways in central Geelong, like Dennys Place, are vital in making it quicker and easier for pedestrians to get around central Geelong and to access popular locations like the cultural precinct and the restaurants in Little Malop Street.” “By encouraging more people to discover the streets, we create a more vibrant and liveable city centre.” 231-233 Moorabool St, Geelong Vic 3220Monday – Friday9am – 5pmPhone: (03) 5221 5900 Parliament HouseCanberra ACT 2600Phone: (02) 6277 3812 Authorised by Sarah Henderson, Liberal Party of Australia, 231-233 Moorabool St Geelong Vic 3220. 1) 0ms;transition:fill 200ms cubic-bezier(0.4 1) 0ms;font-size:1.5rem;}.mui-13xs5pt{width:100vw;max-width:100vw;margin-top:1px;}.mui-68tkgc{width:100vw;max-width:100vw;margin-top:1px;}.mui-1i0sejk{min-width:200px;border-radius:4px;}.mui-o2bopd{text-align:center;-webkit-flex:0 0 auto;-ms-flex:0 0 auto;flex:0 0 auto;font-size:1.5rem;padding:8px;border-radius:50%;overflow:visible;color:rgba(0 0.54);-webkit-transition:background-color 150ms cubic-bezier(0.4 1) 0ms;transition:background-color 150ms cubic-bezier(0.4 1) 0ms;padding:12px;font-size:1.75rem;}.mui-o2bopd:hover{background-color:rgba(0 0.04);}@media (hover: none){.mui-o2bopd:hover{background-color:transparent;}}.mui-o2bopd.Mui-disabled{background-color:transparent;color:rgba(28 1) 0ms;padding:12px;font-size:1.75rem;}.mui-1cqrg4y::-moz-focus-inner{border-style:none;}.mui-1cqrg4y.Mui-disabled{pointer-events:none;cursor:default;}@media print{.mui-1cqrg4y{-webkit-print-color-adjust:exact;color-adjust:exact;}}.mui-1cqrg4y:hover{background-color:rgba(0 0.04);}@media (hover: none){.mui-1cqrg4y:hover{background-color:transparent;}}.mui-1cqrg4y.Mui-disabled{background-color:transparent;color:rgba(28 28,0.38);}.mui-16y1f2l{font-family:'__Roboto_22ceb1','__Roboto_Fallback_22ceb1';font-weight:500;font-size:0.875rem;line-height:1.75;text-transform:uppercase;min-width:64px;padding:6px 16px;border-radius:4px;-webkit-transition:background-color 250ms cubic-bezier(0.4 1) 0ms,border-color 250ms cubic-bezier(0.4 1) 0ms;transition:background-color 250ms cubic-bezier(0.4 28,0.38);box-shadow:none;background-color:rgba(29 which will transform 1.6ha of waterfront land into a events precinct that will “revitalise the city and regional economy”.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs the centrepiece of the Geelong City Deal the precinct will include the purpose-built convention and exhibition space and Built’s Andrew Morgan with Aunty Mary Shuttleworth Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cp\u003e“An additional three tower cranes will arrive onsite over coming months to facilitate four concurrent construction zones and an associated workforce boom,” Morgan said.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“The onsite construction workforce will grow to near 200 by mid-year and 500 by year end in addition to Built’s primarily local 50-member project team creating employment opportunities for skilled locals as well as jobseekers experiencing barriers to work.”\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSlated for completion in 2026 the precinct is then expected to support more than 700 jobs.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt is one of the first major civic developments in central Geelong under the Central Geelong Framework Plan—a 30-year vision to support growth and change in central Geelong.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNyaal Banyul is being delivered as part of the Geelong City Deal a collaborative partnership to transform Geelong and the Great Ocean Road by the federal and Victorian governments building and maintaining Nyaal Banyul and the broader precinct that includes Geelong’s largest hotel and quality retail and mixed-use commercial spaces.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Victorian Government is contributing $423 million to the Nyaal Banyul project Lendlease’s third residential building in the Collins Wharf precinct of Victoria Harbour.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe 28-storey building at 971 Collins Street in Melbourne’s Docklands will deliver 312 homes in a mix of one two and three-bedroom apartments as well as townhouses and penthouses.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAccording to Lendlease the project has already secured more than 50 per cent in presales.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHickory is the construction contractor—it completed the precinct’s first development in 2019 and is also working on LendLease’s second tower Regatta.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFor Ancora Hickory is implementing several technical construction methods including various piling techniques and precast concrete solutions that enable a parallel-track construction program.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe building’s facade designed by architect Warren and Mahoney uses a three-stage design incorporating double-glazed glass and textured precast concrete with Reckli and brick finishes.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe structural design transitions from a solid podium base to lighter upper levels “reflecting a maritime theme” aligned with the Collins Wharf design objectives.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAncora will connect to the neighbouring Regatta development via a podium allowing resident access to shared amenities.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDesigned as an all-electric building that includes electric vehicle infrastructure the development is targeting a 5 Star Green Star certification Completion is expected in 2027.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRegatta including build-to-rent and build-to-sell units.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cp\u003eExtensive wharf works including remediation of pre-existing wharf piles installation of raker piles and construction of the extension to Australia Walk are also part of the project.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTechnical challenges include constructing on the finger wharf and co-ordinating extensive above-wharf road reserve and public parkland works.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Collins Wharf precinct will ultimately comprise six residential buildings of more than 1800 homes surrounded by over 5000sq m of parks and community space.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLendlease is developing the parkland concurrently with the residential components including the extension of Australian Walk that forms part of the City of Melbourne’s Greenline project.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLendlease executive director of development Adam Williams said Collins Wharf “is fast becoming a sought-after address .. which took just a handful of hours to emerge on Saturday night the Coalition’s failure to sway voters has come under intense scrutiny.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIts lack of policies around property that resonated with voters has been a large part of that criticism.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAmong those policies was a $5-billion infrastructure program to unlock up to 500,000 new homes was greeted with no small amount of scepticism.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe Coalition also campaigned on its previously revealed plan to allow first home buyers to draw down on their superannuation giving access to up to $50,000 to help fund mortgage deposits.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhile that proposal had won some support it got the thumbs down from many of Australia’s top economists who said the measure could prove highly inflationary among other issues.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSimilarly its plan to allow mortgage interest for first home buyers to be tax-deductible was roundly criticised for its likely inflationary and regressive effects.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt has also been pointed out that the Coalition’s rejection of the Green’s policies around housing supply affordable housing and help for renters did it no favours.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe ALP went to the polls spruiking an extension of schemes introduced during its previous term including a $10-billion promise for its first-home buyers’ scheme to encourage 100,000 more homes.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt also had its Help to Buy shared equity scheme under which the Government pays up to 40 per cent of the house price to point to.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIf it was these policies per se or the lack of detail and depth to the Coalition’s the nation's ready for the Albanese government to act.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/div\u003e\u003cp\u003eWhat is clear been endorsed to follow through on its policies and fix the crisis that is crippling the Australian property sector.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAs Urban Taskforce Australia chief executive\u0026nbsp;Tom\u0026nbsp;Forrest has pointed out it is time for the Federal Government to get back to work.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“Housing affordability and housing supply featured large during the campaign,” Forrest said.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“The key now is for the Government to strike while the iron’s hot.\u0026nbsp;\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e“If legislation is needed to support the delivery of Labor’s $10-billion 100,000 new homes commitment—then pass it through the parliament now and get on with it.”\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe states have made many changes to how they enable home development The Federal Government’s support of that is crucial to its success material supply assistance or any other factor that affects getting homes out of the ground.\u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis has been a pivotal election Then Cities for Total Fan Immersion\",\"slug\":\"billionaire-arsenal-rams-denver-nuggets-sports-anchored-precincts\",\"datePublished\":\"2025-04-30T00:00+10:00\",\"tags\":[],\"summary\":\"Why your next home might be stadium-adjacent; sports are the hook The first tower crane is now on the site of the Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre which will transform 1.6ha of waterfront land into a events precinct that will “revitalise the city and regional economy” As the centrepiece of the Geelong City Deal Built construction director Andrew Morgan said the firm had completed early works with bulk excavation now under way and the first tower crane on site “An additional three tower cranes will arrive onsite over coming months to facilitate four concurrent construction zones and an associated workforce boom,” Morgan said “The onsite construction workforce will grow to near 200 by mid-year and 500 by year end as well as jobseekers experiencing barriers to work.” the precinct is then expected to support more than 700 jobs It is one of the first major civic developments in central Geelong under the Central Geelong Framework Plan—a 30-year vision to support growth and change in central Geelong Nyaal Banyul is being delivered as part of the Geelong City Deal The project is being led by the Plenary Conventions consortium building and maintaining Nyaal Banyul and the broader precinct that includes Geelong’s largest hotel and quality retail and mixed-use commercial spaces The Victorian Government is contributing $423 million to the Nyaal Banyul project with the Australian Government contributing $30 million and the City of Greater Geelong contributing $3 million we could not find the page you are looking for The City's Social Housing Plan 2020 – 2041 estimated that a Social Housing Plan designed to overcome homelessness and housing poverty will need to deliver 13,500 new social housing dwellings by 2041 A PROPOSAL for 117 social-affordable housing apartments in Geelong’s CBD is nearing completion aimed at addressing the region’s housing crisis This 11-storey development at 23-25 Myers Street forms part of Homes Victoria’s $1.38 billion “Big Housing Build” initiative the City of Greater Geelong called on the state government to bolster its commitments to social housing Planning and design executive director Gareth Smith told the Geelong Times that social housing should be an element of all new housing projects “We would like to see the government legislate for a percentage of social housing to be included as part of all new housing developments as we see this as the most effective avenue to address the shortage in Greater Geelong and across the state,” he said The City’s Social Housing Plan 2020 – 2041 estimated that a Social Housing Plan designed to overcome homelessness and housing poverty will need to deliver 13,500 new social housing dwellings by 2041 According to the plan this implies the addition of an average 675 social housing dwellings per annum over the next 20 years requiring an estimated investment of $235M per annum At the end of June 2022 there were 4,684 social housing dwellings across Greater Geelong The project at 23-25 Myers Street originally didn’t start as a social housing project Department of Transport and Planning records show that Myers Development Pty Ltd initially planned a 13-storey mixed-use office and apartment complex for the site is listed in ASIC documents as the director of Myers Development this initial proposal was withdrawn and replaced by a new application from SP19 Pty Ltd Skye Elizabeth Pitard is married to Simon Pitard A multimillion-dollar shopping centre has been given the green light by City Hall amid a flurry of building in one of Geelong's fastest growing suburbs Stage three of the Green Spine project is complete and westbound car and bicycle lanes on Malop Street between Yarra Street and Bellarine Street have reopened to traffic Photo: FACEBOOK/REVITALISING CENTRAL GEELONG THE third stage of the Malop Street Green Spine project is finished extending the botanic walk and separated bicycle lanes completed in previous stages of the project spanning the south side of Malop Street between Yarra and Bellarine streets began in July and was completed just before Christmas Its completion marks the reopening of westbound car and bicycle lanes on Malop Street which have been closed to traffic since construction began Additions to the streetscape include native plants a raised pedestrian crossing positioned between Yarra and Bellarine streets and the refurbishment of parts of the road Deputy Prime Minister and Federal Member for Corio has celebrated the progression of the project “It’s fantastic to see the final touches put on the Green Spine project Block 3 as we work to transform the heart of Geelong to encourage locals and tourists to spend more time and money in the city centre,” he said The Green Spine is one of the Revitalising Central Geelong Action Plan’s key projects and aims to connect Geelong Station Precinct Johnstone Park and Eastern Park with a pedestrian-friendly park along six blocks of Malop Street the remaining stages of the project will see the sections of Malop Street between Bellarine Street and Garden Street similarly revitalised The Green Spine project is funded by the $500 million Geelong City Deal state and local governments to transform Geelong and the Great Ocean Road over 10 years more than 10,000 plants and trees and almost a hectare of new green space will have been added to Geelong’s CBD Intended to help “reclaim” Malop Street as a pedestrian and active transport zone the botanic walk will include dedicated spaces for alfresco dining and events said: “A thriving Malop Street is key to the ongoing revitalisation of central Geelong.” Victorian Minister for Regional Development said the Green Spine project was an investment in the future of Geelong “It unlocks new opportunities for local businesses creates a fresh new space for people to spend time and provides a safe route for cyclists and walkers through the city “We’re excited to see how this key asset will be used by the city for years to come.” What was once a historic watering hole in Geelong’s CBD could become a 12-storey office tower Don't miss out on the headlines from Geelong Followed categories will be added to My News The site of a central Geelong hotel dating back to the mid-1800s will be transformed into a $14m 12-storey office complex if plans before the state government are given the go-ahead The project planned for the former Star Hotel site at 81 Myers St is being marketed as a “boutique commercial office tower” “The additional levels above the preferred height are setback to reduce the visual bulk from views at street level and avoid overshadowing the south side of the footpath on Myers St,” according to the application “It would be anticipated that a transition of height within this area is an acceptable outcome provided a high level of design and architectural quality is proposed.” It is thought the office space would be attractive to health-related organisations given its proximity to the hospital and other medical facilities since which time several meetings between the developer council and state government have occurred The original hotel building would be restored while the existing rear extension would be demolished The 12-storey building would be built on the rear of the block and incorporate almost 1800sq metres of office space Entry would be from Star St and lead into a glass atrium “The tower is inspired by a Banksia seed pod – rough ever-changing in the moving sunlight and changing seasons,” the plan states “The tower is further crafted to improve and reduce overshadowing of the streets while the new podium is sculpted to create focus on the entry and existing heritage building.” It is conceded by the developer that the building “may have visual impacts” due to its size “The six-metre street setback also makes it to appear more visually recessive or secondary to be visually dominant at street level,” according to the plan It is thought that the atrium between the original and new buildings created a “clear visual boundary between the two volumes” Records indicate that Walter Sheridan was the architect and Bridget Roche was likely the Star Hotel’s first owner A man nabbed upskirting young girls at a busy shopping centre was also caught stealing children’s clothes at a popular Torquay beach leaving behind six children and devastating her shocked family and friends office space and 58 apartments has been green lit with twice the number of storeys than planning guidelines set for its CBD location Nearly 400 new businesses have opened in Geelong CBD the past three years leading to a significant boost in the worforce heading to the city each day Neighbouring buildings at 178-182 Ryrie St Melbourne and Sydney are doing due diligence on neighbouring buildings that create a unique development site within the central business district The freehold properties at 178-182 Ryrie St come to the market as a development opportunity spread over a 950sq m parcel with a broad activity centre zoning The property also has a 28m frontage to Market St at the rear but it’s the potential to build up to eight storeys with a 28m preferred building height that reap the sellers the most value Colliers Geelong listing agent Ben Young said RELATED: Deputy PM finds the recipe to fix Geelong CBD retail strips Geelong’s eat street expansion set after landmark property sells Historic Queenscliff pub listed for sale with huge price hopes Mr Young and Chris Nanni are leading the expressions of interest campaign to sell the property “It would definitely suit a developer to go up 28m under the new framework plan to redevelop the site,” Mr Young said there’s a little bit of heritage control to take into account but developers can definitely use that in their design Light blue shading shows the properties on offer “We’ve had some major developers from Melbourne local have a look at the property already so there’s been some good demand “It’ll be interesting to see where people go with and what they do.” Mr Young said it was too early to determine whether the buyers would get a project off the ground He said leases on the sites were coming up so the owners decided to offload the properties “The property benefits from high foot traffic and excellent exposure to both pedestrians and passing vehicles which makes it a suitable asset for various commercial purposes such as retail RELATED: Latest property values from PropTrack The property also has a rear frontage to Market St Popular Geelong salon Blondie holds a lease for the 170sq m single level retail shop at 178 Ryrie St The owner acquired the two-storey building for $2.915m in 2021 from Geelong Legacy including a 28m frontage to Market St at the rear of the property The combined properties generate an annual income of $112,540 Mr Young wouldn’t reveal price hopes for the property is selling by expressions of interest closing July 7 Mr Young said Geelong’s potential growth – the population is forecast to reach 51,000 by 2050 – was already attracting developers to the region “With over $16 billion in projects and over 120,000 new jobs in Geelong which is growing at a rate of 1000 per year Geelong is one of the hosts of the Commonwealth Games in 2026 will help boost tourism to the area,” Mr Nanni said “Geelong is rapidly evolving with several exciting infrastructure and transport developments which will further support more tourism and enhance lifestyle MORE: Californian bungalow sells above price hopes Ugly duckling transformed in ripper reno $40k saving a relief for cash-strapped homebuyers The freehold properties at 178-182 Ryrie St come to the market as a development opportunity spread over a 950sq m parcel with a broad activity centre zoning RELATED: Deputy PM finds the recipe to fix Geelong CBD retail strips Geelong’s eat street expansion set after landmark property sells Historic Queenscliff pub listed for sale with huge price hopes RELATED: Latest property values from PropTrack MORE: Californian bungalow sells above price hopes Ugly duckling transformed in ripper reno $40k saving a relief for cash-strapped homebuyers With a growing list of projects that are set to reshape the city’s skyline Geelong must ensure it makes the most of its opportunities Australians have always had a fascination with regional property many city dwellers are making their sea change and tree change dreams a reality the trickle of migration to Australia’s regional cities has suddenly become a flood Australian Bureau of Statistics data shows in 2020, a net 43,000 people exited Australia’s capital cities — more than any other year on record — and the trend continued in 2021 says the main driver behind the march to regional areas is people capitalising on the rise of remote working But buyers are also being lured by scenic locations and regional properties that offer "more bang for your buck" "The trend of people moving from the cities into regional areas is something that we've actually been seeing for many years But what we've seen over the last two years is that with the rise of working from home "We know people want more space and that they want to live in a beachside or countryside town with plenty of employment "What we're seeing now is far more people looking to move into regional areas and more people are viewing properties in regional areas online." More Melburnians are seeing the appeal of moving down the bay to Geelong Geelong is a top destination for Victorian home buyers wanting to vacate the big smoke "The region has been one of the fastest-growing areas in Australia," says Stockland Project Director Ed Krushka "It’s a market that has been very attractive — particularly this year." "You’ve got great access to education and transport links back into the city by rail "You're also on the gateway to the Bellarine Peninsula and the Surf Coast which has some of the most incredible beaches in Australia Geelong has some of the world's best surf beaches on its doorstep Flaherty adds that the satellite city — within a one-hour drive of Melbourne — offers great employment opportunities too "The number of businesses looking to lease commercial space in Geelong has nearly doubled comparing pre-and-post-COVID," she says It’s also home to some major regional employers such as WorkSafe Victoria and Deakin University With Geelong increasingly on buyers’ radar Year-on-year price data shows the value of homes in the region jumped 17.2% in the 12 months prior to January the area still ticks the affordability box "We’ve seen really strong price growth in Geelong but the median price of a property is still significantly below what you're going to see in a lot of suburbs in Melbourne," she explains The availability of new housing at more affordable prices than the capital is a big driver for buyers flocking to the Geelong region Krushka says Stockland's new community, Banksia at Armstrong Creek is receiving "high interest" right now Armstrong Creek is already attracting plenty of interest "As one of the newest housing releases in the Geelong region it’s attracting interest from all types of buyers — from first home buyers that are new to the area to locals that were born and bred in Geelong hoping to build a new home," he says "We're also seeing a growing demand from people moving into the area from all over Melbourne due the lifestyle offering and its proximity to the Bellarine Peninsula and Surf Coast." Stockland Banksia is only a short drive to Barwon Heads so residents can hit the waves after work or on the weekend Access to the Surf Coast is a strong drawcard for Geelong The 494 lot development will embrace all the natural aspects that people look for in coastal living textured landscaping materials and native plants featured throughout the community including road names inspired by the native flora Sustainability has been top of mind during the planning of the community which is exactly what buyers are looking for there’s plenty of already established amenity in the area "You’ve got the Warralily Town Centre down the road for all your retail requirements and the new Armstrong Creek retail centre plus you've got great access to schools and quick access back into the Geelong city centre "It’s just a really nice place to live." Banksia’s first land release was mid-March with all lots selling out. Find out more about Stockland Banksia and upcoming land releases A plan to have 12,000 people living within Geelong’s central business district by 2030 has turned the spotlight on potential development sites Two near the northern gateway to the city centre have been listed with potential developers and owner-occupiers interested in the possibilities Gartland Property director Michael De Stefano said the opportunities were clear “They’re the gateway into the CBD and a stone’s throw to the water “There is a big mandate to create 12,000 people habitating within the Geelong CBD over the next seven or eight years so we are going to see more of this type of product coming into the eyes of developers because there will be a big market for it.” Development of the sites were part of creating a thriving and energetic CBD is at the gateway to the central business district so the future of that eastern side of Mercer St will be residential or mixed use development,” he said You basically head one street down and you’re at the water “Then you travel a little bit south and you’re in the dining precinct or the arts precinct.” The precinct already has runs on the board with a huge uptake for the Mercer and Miramar apartments projects with further development planned for the former Winter & Taylor site “Between the two there was about 250 apartments that all sold prior to construction It’s proven the appetite of the market is there,” Mr De Stefano said “And I think there’s further towers planned so the depth of the market has still got a substantial way to go.” The first of the developments sites is at 15 York St The 846sq m site has an Activity Centre Zone and is next to a row of apartments and townhouses Price hopes are low to mid $2 million for the site “This will suit probably a mixed use scenario with a little bit of showroom or office with apartments upstairs,” Mr De Stefano said Newtown agent Tim Darcy said the key to a bigger 2022sq m site was five separate street frontages covering 165 metres The parcel comprises addresses at 5-11 Mercer St, 4 Sadler Pl and 2-6 Ginn St, Geelong, with additional frontage to two right-of-ways. High-rise developments will unlock views to all angles from the Geelong CBD. It’s being offered by an expressions of interest campaign with vacant possession but based on recent residential land sales in the area, it could attract interest above $7 million. Mr Darcy said it provides an enormous amount of flexibility to any development scheme. “It’s included within an activity centre zone, so there is a raft of different things that could suit, but probably the highest and best use would be for residential purposes.” The draft Central Geelong Framework Plan lists the preferred building height for the site at 21m, with a 16m street frontage, providing for between four and six storeys. It previously had a 15m preferred building height. 5-11 Mercer St, 4 Sadler Pl and 2-6 Ginn St, Geelong. “All that is under ministerial review but you’ve got the opportunity to do something quite unique and of an up-market nature given the aspects that you are going to be able to create over the bay,” Mr Darcy said. “You’re going to have good northerly, easterly and southerly vistas and probably reasonably to the west. “You’re walking distance to all our key feature sports within the activity centre, being Deakin, the train station, Westfield and so forth.” \t\t\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\n\t\t The first of the developments sites is at 15 York St The parcel comprises addresses at 5-11 Mercer St, 4 Sadler Pl and 2-6 Ginn St, Geelong with additional frontage to two right-of-ways High-rise developments will unlock views to all angles from the Geelong CBD It’s being offered by an expressions of interest campaign with vacant possession but based on recent residential land sales in the area it could attract interest above $7 million Mr Darcy said it provides an enormous amount of flexibility to any development scheme “It’s included within an activity centre zone so there is a raft of different things that could suit but probably the highest and best use would be for residential purposes.” The draft Central Geelong Framework Plan lists the preferred building height for the site at 21m providing for between four and six storeys It previously had a 15m preferred building height “All that is under ministerial review but you’ve got the opportunity to do something quite unique and of an up-market nature given the aspects that you are going to be able to create over the bay,” Mr Darcy said easterly and southerly vistas and probably reasonably to the west “You’re walking distance to all our key feature sports within the activity centre if they’d made the short trip to Port Phillip Heads near Point Lonsdale Geelong residents would have seen the familiar sight of the Spirit of Tasmania chugging her way towards Port Melbourne the cruise company packed its bags and moved to Corio Quay to the ire of Melbourne-based passengers and celebration of Geelong’s residents The move is expected to inject $1.65 million annually into Victoria’s second capital and the surrounding Bellarine Peninsula vintners and hoteliers hoping travellers will stick around to explore a rejuvenated Geelong Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong – with Corio Bay views and a stroll to the city’s arts and entertainment offerings This summer GMHBA Stadium in Geelong’s Kardinia Park will stake its claim as Australia’s best regional stadium when it reopens after extensive redevelopment The city also raised the curtain on the new Geelong Arts Centre in August ground zero for festivals as well as comedy and tribute shows The Arts Centre backs onto Little Malop Street which channels Melbourne’s laneways thanks to an assortment of wine bars a restaurant best described as a glass treehouse Around the corner from these is the Geelong Quarter a new $200 million mixed-use development that launched in September with Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong as its main tenant Maestro Restaurant at Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong.Credit: Monika Berry Less than 10 minutes’ drive to the Spirit of Tasmania’s terminal the city’s first new hotel in almost 20 years makes an ideal base to explore the Bellarine before or after cruising featuring 180 Nordic-inspired rooms including suites with views overlooking the bay Owners IHG Hotels & Resorts hope the airy lobby bar on the first floor will lure locals away from Little Malop Street for a drink and a bite chef and meat master Adrian Richardson plays to his strengths leading a protein-forward menu that brings together surf and turf produce from the region Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong aren’t the only ones capitalising on the cruising boom while Mt Duneed Estate has unveiled eight new luxury pods overlooking its vineyards on the city’s outskirts IHG Hotels & Resorts announced it will bring its luxury hotel label in time to open alongside the new Geelong Convention & Exhibition Centre See holidayinn.com/geelong The latest travel news, tips and inspiration delivered to your inbox. Sign up now if they\\u2019d made the short trip to Port Phillip Heads near Point Lonsdale to the ire of Melbourne-based passengers and celebration of Geelong\\u2019s residents The move is expected to inject $1.65 million annually into Victoria\\u2019s second capital and the surrounding Bellarine Peninsula This summer GMHBA Stadium in Geelong\\u2019s Kardinia Park will stake its claim as Australia\\u2019s best regional stadium when it reopens after extensive redevelopment which channels Melbourne\\u2019s laneways thanks to an assortment of wine bars Less than 10 minutes\\u2019 drive to the Spirit of Tasmania\\u2019s terminal the city\\u2019s first new hotel in almost 20 years makes an ideal base to explore the Bellarine before or after cruising Holiday Inn & Suites Geelong aren\\u2019t the only ones capitalising on the cruising boom while Mt Duneed Estate has unveiled eight new luxury pods overlooking its vineyards on the city\\u2019s outskirts