More major community, sporting and cultural events are on their way to Greater Geelong, helping create unforgettable experiences for residents and visitors while providing a boost to the local economy.
Each year, the City attracts a full calendar of nationally and internationally recognised experiences, reinforcing Geelong’s reputation as one of the nation’s leading regional event destinations.
These events boost visitation to the region and support local businesses by generating overnight stays, employment opportunities and spending in local hospitality and retail businesses.
Beyond the economic benefits, events bring our community together, create opportunities for participation in world-class experiences close to home and showcase the region to national and international audiences.
To ensure these benefits continue to be felt, the City has allocated $1.3 million through the 2026-27 Budget to support the attraction and retention of major events that contribute to a vibrant local economy and strengthen community connections.
The 2026-27 events calendar is already shaping up to be another standout year for the region, with IRONMAN 70.3, Festival of Sails, AUSX Open, Spilt Milk, Geelong Running Festival, Wonder Children’s Festival and the 2027 Vic Open Golf Tournament already locked in.
As Australia’s biggest single-day music festival, Spilt Milk alone is set to inject $15.5 million into the local economy and attract more than 30,000 visitors to the region, driving spending across accommodation, hospitality, retail and transport.
Through the festival’s five-year partnership with the City, it’s expected to generate $94.3 million for the local economy, attract 176,070 visitors and secure 18,579 visitor stays, highlighting the long-term value of securing and retaining major events.
The City’s Geelong Major Events Committee (GME) plays a key role in identifying, attracting and retaining events that enhance the region’s profile, stimulate economic activity and contribute to community vibrancy.
In 2024-25, GME-supported events delivered a $93 million economic boost to Greater Geelong, cementing the region’s standing as one Australia’s strongest and most diverse event destinations.
Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM
Major events help showcase Greater Geelong to new audiences while delivering real benefits for local businesses and the broader economy.
Continued investment ensures we remain a destination of choice for major sporting, cultural and entertainment events.
Geelong Major Events Committee Chair Councillor Andrew Katos
We’ve built a strong reputation for attracting events that not only deliver economic benefits but also create opportunities for our community to come together and enjoy world-class experiences.
Having access to these experiences close to home is part of what makes Greater Geelong such a vibrant and connected community.
To stay up to date with events happening in Greater Geelong, visit: https://www.geelongcity.vic.gov.au/whats-happening/events
