Andreas Gober Appointed Executive Chef at Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre
Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre has appointed Andreas Gober as Executive Chef.
Andreas brings extensive global experience and a passion for local produce to Australia’s most anticipated new business events venue, set to open in July 2026.
His career spans fine dining restaurants across Europe, premium cruise lines, luxury hotels and large-scale stadium catering. Now, he brings that expertise to Geelong, where his focus will be on creating a menu that is locally grounded, culturally inclusive, and guided by seasonality.
Discussing his inspiration for designing the menu, Andreas said the venue was fortunate to be surrounded by so many high-quality producers.
“We’re surrounded by so much here. Oceans, farmland, incredible artisans. You don’t need to look far to find flavour – it’s already here.”
Originally from Austria, Andreas’ approach is shaped by his European roots and deep respect for ingredients.
“I’ve always dabbled in the kitchen – it runs in the family. My great-grandparents on my mother’s side ran the Stiftskeller in Admont, and both my grandmother and mother were exceptional cooks.”
Menus at Nyaal Banyul will be shaped in close collaboration with local growers and artisans, many based across the Bellarine and Surf Coast. Andreas and his team will source seasonal ingredients with a focus on sustainability, supporting regional producers and minimising food miles.
One of his first signature dishes - Moorabool Valley duck breast with leg croquette, saltbush, Mount Zero lentil granola and local carrots - reflects a commitment to elegant, thoughtful food that is authentically local.
“You start with what’s in front of you. The landscape, the season, the community. Then you cook with intention. That’s how a dish becomes something more,” said Andreas.
Nyaal Banyul General Manager Rick Aylett celebrated Andreas’ appointment as a major milestone.
“Andreas and his team will deliver a world-class dining experience for our customers, while celebrating local producers and telling the stories of regional Victoria.”
“Our ambition is to leave a positive lasting impact on every single person who walks through our doors – and food is a big part of that,” Rick said.
Andreas joins a growing team of passionate locals who are eagerly preparing for the venue to open its doors in 2026.
About Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre:
Located just an hour’s drive from Melbourne, Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre (Nyaal Banyul) sits on the stunning Corio Bay with easy access to bars, restaurants and cultural attractions.
Direct flights are available from Sydney, Brisbane or Gold Coast to Avalon Airport, just 20 minutes from Geelong.
Nyaal Banyul offers 3,700 sqm of flexible event space including a 1,000 seat theatre, adaptable meeting rooms with cutting edge technology and gala event spaces overlooking the Geelong waterfront.
There is a 200-room Crowne Plaza hotel onsite, and over 1,500 nearby hotel rooms.
Designed for universal access, Nyaal Banyul is a 5-Star Green Star-rated, carbon-neutral venue, setting new benchmarks for sustainable and accessible events.