Things have begun to look up for the world of business events.

With the vaccine rollout already underway and state borders being flung open, we reckon it is about time to start planning your next event.

Your comeback bash cannot just be in any old location though. Major cities are so pre-pandemic.

You need something more boutique; a place with more to it than meets the eye with a distinctly local feel. We’re calling it: our post-pandemic pick is Geelong.

We know, it is not the first place you might think of when you’re on the hunt for the perfect business event or incentive location, but that’s largely due to a handful of myths and assumptions around hosting in the beautiful waterfront city.

To change your mind, The Nibbler has busted a few of these myths and misconceptions circulating around the MICE community…

MYTH #1: Geelong doesn’t have the infrastructure to support large-scale business events 

WRONG. Geelong is home to GMHBA Stadium, which is the largest events space in the region and can host up to 2,450 guests.

The venue boasts 32 event spaces with external terraces, floor-to-ceiling windows and contemporary design features. Its food and beverage options are creative and focus on using local produce so good that even your most flashy clients will be impressed.

GMHBA Stadium is only a 25-minute drive from Avalon Airport and walking distance to Geelong’s CBD, with loads of nearby accommodation options.

Image source: Business Events Geelong

Not to mention, Geelong is getting a shiny new waterfront convention and exhibition centre capable of holding 1,000 delegates. The centre will house 3,000 square metres of exhibition space, banqueting facilities, meeting rooms, a business centre and retail outlets.

Construction of the new venue is expected to commence in 2022.

MYTH #2: There is not enough to see and do in Geelong

WRONG! Geelong has changed since your nan and pop’s last holiday there. There is much more to it these days than its beautiful waterfront and quirky painted bollards.

The city’s old industrial spots are being transformed into creative hubs, urban precincts and coveted eateries, like the old mill that was converted into the east coast headquarters of Little Creatures Brewing or the high-tech, uber-cool office spaces taking over old warehouses.

Image source: Business Events Geelong

It has still got all the picturesque historical buildings that make Geelong special, but the town is getting a delightfully modern twist.

Amongst its famous Library and Heritage Centre, Old Post Office and Town Hall, you can find loads of bright street-art murals and laneways filled with nightlife spots and adorable eateries popping up all over the place.

And those bollards? They’ve recently had an augmented reality update, with some of them coming to life to share their stories.

Image source: Business Events Geelong

MYTH #3: Geelong is too far away

WRONG AGAIN! Geelong is just a 20-minute drive from Avalon Airport and the SkyBus will take you right to the city centre. So really, if you’re landing at Avalon, you’re much closer to Geelong than you are to Melbourne.

If you do happen to be in Melbourne, it is only about an hour’s drive, or you can get the train from Southern Cross station if you’d prefer to take in the scenery.

But, if you really want to wow your guests, the best way to get to Geelong is via the Port Phillip Ferries service, which runs between Geelong and Melbourne Docklands twice daily. It’s the perfect way to take in the scenery and you can enjoy a coffee or local wine on the way.

MYTH #4: Regional cities can’t match the capitals for service

THAT AIN’T TRUE! Operators and venues in regional cities such as Geelong certainly punch above their weight and go over and beyond what is expected in every aspect.

Unlike capital cities, regional city centres have a tight-knit community of operators who all know and support each other and, in most instances, have worked together many, many times before to create memorable corporate events.

MYTH #5: Geelong is not an incentive destination

OH, SO WRONG! Geelong is home to loads of exciting experiences to pack into your incentive trips.

Image source: Business Events Geelong

Why not show your delegates the area’s stunning coastlines in style with Geelong Helicopters?

You could immerse them in an enriching cultural experience at the Narana Aboriginal Cultural Centre, have them tee off at the contemporary nine-hole Geelong golf course, send them on a culinary adventure packed with local produce with Andy’s Trails, or get them happily sloshed at the Little Creatures Brewery or on a For the Love of Grape wine tour.

Oh, and did we mention the spectacular waterfront?

If you’re keen to throw your next event in Geelong, before sure to contact the team at Business Events Geelong. Their services are completely free to access and they’ll guarantee your next business event will be a memorable one.

Click here for more info.

Featured image source: Business Events Geelong