Gurner Unveils $300m Geelong Debut

Gurner is set to make its Geelong debut with a $300-million, mixed-use precinct near the city’s waterfront, presenting an opportunity to accommodate more delegates when conferences come to the region.

The prolific developer will partner with Geelong property identity Dean Montgomery to transform the 2100sq m historic former wool store at 20–28 Brougham Street. The wool store, dating back to 1872, was built by wool industry pioneer Charles John Dennys.

The site currently has a permit for a 12-storey commercial building with 26,000sq m of gross floor area. Gurner founder Tim Gurner stated that plans by Fender Katsalidis for the property include a ground-floor food and beverage precinct, a five-star hotel, luxury residences, and the restoration of the heritage facade of the building. The number of rooms within the hotel aspect of the development is yet to be confirmed.

“We will be bringing an incredible five-star hotel to this location that will feature a retail and hospitality offering at the ground floor reminiscent of Chelsea Market in New York,” Gurner said. “Sitting on top of the hotel will be a collection of large luxury owner-occupier residences for locals and downsizers.”

The site will also link the nearby new council offices and the university, further integrating the precinct into the local infrastructure.

Gurner emphasized the growth potential of the Geelong market. “Regional tourism is set to flourish in the next few years, as holiday preferences change and regional destinations such as Geelong continue to grow in popularity. The opening of new attractions, like the Spirit of Tasmania terminal in Geelong, will further drive this activity.”

By adding more accommodation options, including the new five-star hotel, Geelong is poised to become an even more attractive destination for conferences, providing ample space and amenities for delegates from around the world.