Major events bring $65.9 million to Geelong economy in 2012-2013


Geelong hosted 20 major events over the past year, generating approximately $65.9 million expenditure in our region and supporting the equivalent of 527 full time jobs.

The 2012-2013 Geelong Major Events Annual Report was presented to Council.

Some of the major events hosted successfully from 1 July 2012- 30 June 2013 include:
  • Just Cars Motorsport Revival
  • New Year’s Eve Pier Festival 
  • Mitchelton Bay Cycling Classic 
  • Festival of Sails
  • Geelong Multi Sport Festival
  • Victorian Open Golf Championships
  • Pako Festa
  • Australian International Airshow 
  • National Celtic Festival

Major events portfolio holder and GME Chair Cr Ron Nelson said the variety of major events held in Geelong not only provide a great financial boost for the region but also bring social benefits for the local community.

“Major events play an important role in the Greater Geelong economy, and we are fortunate to regularly have the opportunity to play host to some nationally and internationally significant events,” said Cr Nelson.

“Many of these events, as well as providing great entertainment and inspiration for spectators, also provide opportunities for locals to participate,” he said.

“Whether it’s volunteering at the Pako Festa or competing in the Multi Sport Festival, there are plenty of ways the local community can really get involved with our major events.”

“Events are a great way to bring the local community together, and also showcase our region to visitors from interstate and overseas.”

“In fact, it is estimated that 548,000 participants and spectators attend the 20 events staged throughout Geelong over 2012-2013.”

“The Geelong Major Events committee plays a key role in supporting these events, through their strong links with private sector, government and the community.”

“I thank the committee for another year of hard work and success,” said Cr Nelson.

As well as staging events throughout the year, GME also secured the Melges 24 Sailing World Championship for Geelong, to be held in January 2014.

For more information visit http://www.geelongaustralia.com.au/ct/news/item/8d07cdf9411cb6e.aspx