What to Know Before You Arrive
By Bree Pagliuso|
Geelong is full of surprises. There’s a creative energy here that keeps growing, a buzzing food scene, and cultural experiences around every corner. And soon, something new is arriving—a world-class venue designed to bring people together: Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre.
Whether you’re planning a conference or an intimate community gathering, Nyaal Banyul offers something distinct. This is a venue shaped by generations of stories, with thoughtful interiors and subtle nods to the land it stands on. Every space is made for meaningful connection.
Before the lights go on and the doors open, here’s what you can expect and why Geelong might just become your new favourite place to gather.
What to know before you arrive?
1. You don’t have to go far to feel like you’ve gone somewhere different
Geelong is just over an hour’s drive from Melbourne, but you’ve got options. V/Line trains run regularly from Southern Cross Station in Melbourne's CBD and drop you right in the city centre. Avalon Airport is only 20 minutes away, with direct flights from Sydney, Brisbane and the Gold Coast. You can even take the ferry from Docklands on weekends—cruise into Geelong with a coffee in hand.
However you choose to arrive , the city’s compact layout makes it easy. Nyaal Banyul and nearby accommodations are all close by, including the connected 200-room Crowne Plaza Geelong .
2. The venue is designed with you in mind
Everything’s ready when you are. With over 30 years of event expertise, our team delivers full AV production and experienced support—so you can focus on what matters. Whatever your format, you’ll find a space that adapts to your needs and elevates the experience for every delegate.
These rooms are more than just functional. They’re designed for flow, with layouts that make sense and interiors that feel open, warm, and easy to navigate. Natural light and views of the water draw you in, with every space built to encourage connection and conversation.
Planning something bigger? Our 1,000-seat theatre brings a unique energy and presence to your event. And if you’re looking to blur the line between indoors and out, our landscaped outdoor areas invite the surrounding landscape in.
3. Geelong’s food scene is well worth exploring
Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula is full of options. Think local wineries, waterfront restaurants, small farms, cosy wine bars and neighbourhood bakeries, there’s a lot to discover.
That same spirit carries through to our venue. Our food is seasonal, considered and made to suit all kinds of tastes. You’ll find local produce, sustainably sourced ingredients and touches of Indigenous flavours throughout with simple, honest food that feels connected to place.
4. The pace here works in your favour
One of the best things about hosting your event in Geelong is the shift it creates. Things move with more ease here. Focused and never rushed.
You’ll find space to think, time to connect, and a calm energy that helps everyone settle in and engage. For delegates, it’s a welcome reset. For organisers, it’s a chance to create something more thoughtful, more personal and more grounded.
5. There’s plenty to do before and after your event
If your guests are arriving early or staying on, there’s lots to see and do nearby . You can start with a walk along the Geelong waterfront, grab a coffee from a local cafe, or check out the galleries and shops around Little Malop Street.
The Bellarine Peninsula is just down the road. It’s a good spot for wine tasting, beach walks in Barwon Heads, fish and chips in Queenscliff, or a dip at Ocean Grove. Aireys Inlet has a beautiful lighthouse walk, and Lorne is great for a relaxed day out, with waterfalls, coastal trails and a few good spots to eat.
If you’ve got more time, the Great Ocean Road is a classic drive. The Twelve Apostles are about two and a half hours away, and there are plenty of places to stop along the way. Closer to Geelong, you’ll find wineries in the Moorabool Valley, the Geelong Botanic Gardens, and the Werribee Open Range Zoo.
Whether you’re staying for a day or a week, this part of Victoria has plenty to offer.
Planning something special?
Nyaal Banyul opens in 2026. A new event destination where stories are shared, connections grow, and the landscape is part of it all.
Everything you need is here, with a few surprises to discover.
Explore more or get in touch to start planning.