The Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre will open on Corio Bay’s foreshore in July 2026 and features a 1,000-seat theatre, 3,700 square metres of flexible event space, a 200-room hotel and public-facing hospitality offerings.
Geelong’s long-awaited convention and events venue is nearing completion, with the centre set to welcome its first visitors mid-year. The 1.6-hectare development will serve as a major drawcard for business events, cultural programming and community gatherings on Wadawurrung Country.
A venue built to back local business
More than 50 local businesses will help deliver events at Nyaal Banyul, supplying everything from food and wine to event equipment and operational support. This includes Geelong Access Hire, Lonsdale Tomato Farm, genU and Bellarine Smokehouse, along with 28 local wineries, breweries and other beverage producers, alongside wider logistics and service partners across the region.
Also, the centre is part of the wider Geelong City Deal, a $676 million investment designed to revitalise the region through major infrastructure and destination-building projects.
Together, these elements elevate Geelong as Victoria’s “second city” and position it as a serious contender for major conferences, exhibitions and events on the national and international stage.
Culture, Country and community
However, beyond economics, the venue carries strong cultural significance. The Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation gifted the name Nyaal Banyul—meaning “open your eyes to the hills” in Wadawurrung language—anchoring the project in the landscape and story of Wadawurrung Country.
An on-site 200-room luxury Crown hotel will provide accommodation for delegates and visitors, while the venue’s Kudja Café offers a place to pause and unwind, serving freshly brewed coffee and pastries for those looking to ease into the day or take a break between events.
Moreover, the precinct has been designed with its history and future in mind. Sensory rooms, prayer spaces and all-gender amenities sit alongside a parent’s room on Level 1, which includes a microwave, baby change tables, breastfeeding pods, an enclosed toddler play area and toilets.
Accessibility has been embedded throughout the entire venue. Every event space features at-grade entry, push-button doors and hearing assistance available via both Wi-Fi and infrared systems, ensuring equitable access across conferences, performances and community events.
First events on the calendar
The first announced events will roll out across July and August 2026, spanning education, leadership, culture and community programming. In particular, they include the Associations Forum National Conference, the Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative NAIDOC Week Dinner, the Business Managers Victoria Conference and the Victorian Principals Association Conference.
Community open day
Locals will get their first chance to look inside at the free Community Open Day on Saturday, 11th July 2026. The event will give visitors a preview of the venue’s public spaces, entertainment offering and family-friendly facilities.
- When: Saturday, 11th July 2026, 10am–4pm.
- Where: Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre, 80 Western Beach Road, Geelong VIC 3220.
- Cost: Free entry, with registration tied to a hamper prize draw.
- What’s on: Self-guided tours, live entertainment, local food and drinks, face painting and family-friendly activities.
- Amenities: On-site facilities include a parents’ room, sensory room and accessible amenities.
Nyaal Banyul will open at 80 Western Beach Road from 11th July 2026.
