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Showcasing Geelong and Beyond: Three-Day International Famil

In collaboration with Melbourne Convention Bureau and Turkish Airlines, Business Events Geelong recently hosted a three-day international famil that brought our guests from Singapore face-to-face with some of the region’s top incentive venues and experiences. This exclusive famil was designed to highlight the diverse range of business event & incentive opportunities available in Geelong and The Bellarine, showcasing everything from scenic dining experiences to unforgettable team-building activities, all tailored for the business events market.

Day 1: Immersive Wine Tasting and Waterfront Dining

The famil began with a warm welcome at Novotel Geelong, where our guests were introduced to the luxury and functionality of this iconic waterfront hotel. The day unfolded with a premium wine-tasting session hosted by Archive Academy, allowing participants to enjoy a curated selection of local wines while overlooking Corio Bay. The evening concluded with a memorable dining experience at Fisherman’s Pier, where fresh, locally-sourced seafood was perfectly complemented by the picturesque bay views, giving guests a true taste of Geelong’s exceptional culinary scene.

Day 2: Behind-the-Scenes, Beer Tasting, and Coastal Culinary Adventures

The second day of our adventure started with a behind-the-scenes tour of the National Wool Museum. This venue combines heritage charm with modern event spaces, providing a unique backdrop for conferences or cocktail functions.

Next, the group headed to Little Creatures Brewery, where a private brewery tour was followed by a beer-tasting session. This laid-back venue, perfect for casual networking or team-building, gave attendees a taste of Geelong’s craft brewing scene.

For the lunch portion of the day we were welcomed at GMHBA Stadium’s Higher Mark and Club Chin Chin, where they delivered a truly unforgettable experience. Our guests took part in a progressive lunch, featuring an immersive cooking class led by Chin Chin Executive Chef Benjamin Cooper. Personalised aprons and Chin Chin cookbooks set the tone, as guests prepared side dishes that complimented the meal. Following lunch, we explored GMHBA Stadium’s impressive event and entertainment spaces.

The afternoon featured a standout coastal experience: an immersive Portarlington Mussel Tour. Planners boarded a vessel and headed out on the water to see the mussel farms up close, learning about the sustainable farming process before sampling fresh mussels straight from the source. This interactive experience provides a distinct option for incentive groups looking for hands-on activities.

The day’s culinary journey continued with a six-course dinner at The Grand Hotel in Portarlington. Each course was expertly paired with wines from Scotchmans Hill Winery, showcasing the region’s culinary talent and local produce. The venue’s refined yet relaxed ambience, paired with exceptional food and wine, makes it an ideal location for high-end corporate events and incentive dinners.

Day 3: Team Building, Fine Dining, and Unique Venues

Team-building activities at The Range at Curlewis marked the start of the final day of the famil, where our guests competed in a friendly round of mini-golf. This fun, interactive environment is perfect for encouraging collaboration and networking in a relaxed, outdoor setting.

From there, the group boarded The Q Train for a premium dining experience along The Bellarine. While travelling through scenic landscapes, our guests indulged in a two-course meal paired with champagne and cocktails. The Q Train, a travelling restaurant, delivers a distinctive venue for smaller corporate events or private dining experiences, blending gourmet cuisine with spectacular views of the bay.

Exclusive Wildlife Encounters and Historic Elegance

The famil’s next stop was Werribee Open Range Zoo, where participants enjoyed a Deluxe VIP Safari . Attendees got up close with iconic wildlife, including giraffes, rhinos, and a curious ostrich. This exclusive zoo experience offers an unforgettable backdrop for corporate groups seeking to add something truly unique to their itineraries.

The final destination was The Lancemore Mansion Werribee, a heritage-listed venue with expansive gardens and elegant event spaces. After touring the venue’s versatile facilities, the group enjoyed a luxurious three-course dinner on the grand mansion arches, with stunning views of the grounds. This stately venue, combining old-world charm with modern amenities, is perfect for gala dinners, executive retreats, and high-profile networking events.

The evening concluded with a mystery performance inside the mansion, where performers guided the group through an immersive historical experience. Laughter filled the room as the performers delivered a mix of comedy and clever antics, making for a truly unforgettable experience. This unique entertainment option further demonstrates the versatility of The Lancemore Mansion Werribee for creating memorable, impactful corporate events.

A Showcase of Possibilities for MICE Events

This three-day famil showcased the exceptional venues and experiences across Geelong, The Bellarine, and Werribee for the MICE market. From waterfront dining and exclusive behind-the-scenes tours to premium wildlife encounters and historic venues, the region’s diverse offerings cater to event planners seeking to deliver impactful and unforgettable events. With world-class facilities and a rich tapestry of experiences, Geelong is cementing its reputation as a premier destination for business events, delivering inspiration and innovation at every turn.

To find out more about Geelong and The Bellarine or to register to attend our next famil please click here.