Nyaal Banyul Event to Deliver $815K Boost for Geelong
By Jasmin Van Laar|
Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre will host the 2026 Professional Conference Organisers Association (PCOA) conference, which will welcome over 500 delegates from across Australia and New Zealand.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos was thrilled to announce Nyaal Banyul as the location for the 2026 conference, which is expected to generate an estimated $815,000 in economic benefit to the region, cementing Nyaal Banyul as a driver of business tourism and regional economic development.
Meet Geelong and The Bellarine and Nyaal Banyul worked closely with PCOA to secure the conference, which is a highlight of the business events industry calendar.
The $450 million state-of-the-art venue is a landmark investment in Victoria’s regional infrastructure. Opening in 2026, Nyaal Banyul will deliver 3,700 square metres of flexible event space, a 1,000-seat theatre, and the 200-room Crowne Plaza Geelong Hotel.
This investment represents a significant commitment to strengthening the state’s business events sector, positioning Geelong as a competitive destination for national and international conferences.
PCOA is a leading industry association representing professional conference organisers who play a vital role in supporting the business events economy through education, networking, and advocacy. Its annual conference brings together venue managers, event planners, and sector leaders to exchange knowledge and foster innovation.
Hosting next year’s event at Nyaal Banyul demonstrates confidence in the region’s capacity to deliver large-scale conferences that stimulate local employment, tourism, and investment.
Beyond the conference program, delegates will engage in curated regional experiences that showcase Geelong and The Bellarine’s economic strengths in tourism, hospitality, and culture. From acclaimed wineries to stunning natural landscapes and local attractions, these activities will support local businesses and help position Geelong as one of Australia’s most exciting destinations for business events.
Nyaal Banyul is being delivered in partnership with the Plenary Conventions consortium and will be operated by the Victorian Convention and Event Trust.
The project is funded through the Geelong City Deal, a $676 million investment from the Australian Government, Victorian Government and City of Greater Geelong to revitalise Geelong through critical infrastructure.
For more information and upcoming event announcements, visit nyaalbanyul.com.au .
Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events, Steve Dimopoulos
“Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre is a landmark investment that will deliver lasting economic benefits for Victoria. Hosting the PCOA Conference here in 2026 demonstrates Geelong’s growing capacity to attract major business events, supporting local jobs, tourism operators and the wider regional economy.”
“This conference is further proof that Geelong is emerging as one of Australia’s premier destinations for business events. With world-class infrastructure, Nyaal Banyul will showcase our region to national and interna-tional delegates, strengthening Victoria’s reputation as a leader in the global events industry.”
Quotes attributable to Tamie Ryan, Convention Bureau Manager, Meet Geelong and The Bellarine:
"We are thrilled to welcome PCOA delegates to Geelong and The Bellarine in 2026. This conference is an incredi-ble opportunity to showcase our world-class venues, vibrant precincts, and unique experiences that make our region one of Australia’s most inspiring business events destinations."
Quotes attributable to General Manager Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre, Rick Aylett:
" We look forward to welcoming PCOA delegates to Nyaal Banyul in 2026 and showcasing a venue designed to set a new benchmark for regional business events in Australia.
Nyaal Banyul will be a home for ideas and meaningful connections, with a strong sense of place. This project has been years in the making, and from day one our focus has been on creating a world-class venue that in-spires every delegate who walks through our doors.”
Quotes attributable to PCOA President, Barry Neame
"PCOA is delighted to bring our 2026 Conference to Geelong. The region’s mix of exceptional venues, natural beauty, and unique experiences will make this a truly memorable event for our members. We look forward to connecting our delegates with local partners and showcasing what Geelong and The Bellarine have to offer."