As our region gears up for a weekend featuring two major world-class events — the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race and the historic Festival of Sails — it’s a great time to have your say on the future of major events in Geelong.
More than 100,000 people are expected to attend both the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race and Festival of Sails, providing a massive boost to the region’s economy. The 2023 cycling event pumped $10.7 million into our local economy and the sailing festival provided $11.6 million.
A fireworks display will be staged on Corio Bay directly in front of Eastern Beach Reserve as part of Festival of Sails on Friday at 9:30pm.
To ensure the safety of the participants and the community, there will be both rolling and fixed road closures in place across Saturday and Sunday. Delays of 15-20 minutes are expected on the Surf Coast/Bellarine Loop when the race passes by once each day and there will be local access only on the Geelong Circuit.
Drivers are also encouraged to be extra careful during the recreational TAC People’s Ride on Saturday as thousands of riders will take to the road, predominantly under normal traffic conditions.
Mayor Trent Sullivan:
The City is currently seeking public feedback on how to further position Geelong as a premier destination for major events, festivals, and cultural gatherings and encouraged people to have their say on the new Major Events Strategy.
Major events like the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race and the Festival of Sails play a huge role in our visitor economy.
Community input is vital in helping us to identify new opportunities and securing a wide range of exciting events for our region.
Chair of the Geelong Major Events Committee, Deputy Mayor Anthony Aitken:
The strategic review isn’t just about what events are held, it also includes an opportunity to review our existing calendar and how, when and who delivers our events in Geelong.
The strategy will help us maintain Geelong’s place as a major events host and ensure we remain a key visitor destination.
Don’t miss your chance to influence Geelong’s major events future.
Extra resources have been allocated for this busy period at the Waterfront, to ensure an enjoyable experience for visitors.
