Construction of Geelong’s largest hotel, the $120 million Crowne Plaza Geelong, is rapidly progressing on the city’s waterfront, marking a transformative phase for the region’s hospitality and tourism sector.
Set to open in early 2026, the 200-room hotel is the centrepiece of the Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre precinct, a $250 million investment by Plenary Group that also includes new retail, commercial, and mixed-use spaces.
The project is fully funded by Plenary Group and will be operated by IHG Hotels & Resorts under the Crowne Plaza brand.
The Crowne Plaza Geelong is designed to deliver a premium guest experience and will feature a range of amenities, including cafes, restaurants, and a public sky bar offering panoramic views of Corio Bay and the city skyline.
The hotel is expected to play a pivotal role in revitalising Geelong’s waterfront, drawing both local and international visitors, and supporting the city’s emergence as a major events and tourism destination.
The broader Nyaal Banyul precinct will also house state-of-the-art exhibition spaces and a public plaza, further enhancing Geelong’s appeal as a hub for business and leisure events.
Plenary Group’s Chief Investment Officer, Paul Crowe, said: “The hotel and retail offerings throughout the precinct will include cafes and restaurants for locals and visitors to enjoy quality local food and beverages and a public sky bar with some of the best views in Geelong.”
The precinct is projected to support around 1,500 local jobs during construction and operation, with a focus on providing opportunities for apprentices, priority jobseekers, and women in construction.
This commitment to local employment is further bolstered by training and qualification programs designed to upskill the regional workforce.
The appointment of John Dickson as general manager marks the first major hire for Crowne Plaza Geelong.
With over 20 years of experience, including previous leadership roles at Novotel Geelong and hotels in Melbourne, Sydney, and Wellington, Dickson is already focused on assembling a skilled local team.
“It’s an honour to be tasked with building a talented team of locals that can provide guests with the premium experience that Crowne Plaza is famous for around the world,” Dickson said.
“This is a marquee investment in Geelong, and I want to ensure we get it right – bringing in the best people to provide the best service to locals and visitors.”
As part of the adjacent $449 million Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre project, the hotel and its surrounding precinct are set to redefine luxury accommodation and events infrastructure in the region, cementing Geelong’s status as a premier destination for tourism and major events.
