More than 100,000 people are expected to flock to two major events in and around Geelong this weekend.
The Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race and Festival of Sails is set to provide a massive boost to the region’s economy.
The 2023 cycling event pumped $10.7 million into the local economy and the sailing festival provided $11.6 million.
Delays of 15 to 20 minutes are expected on the Surf Coast/Bellarine Loop when the road race passes by once each day on Saturday and Sunday January 27 and 28 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.
The City of Greater Geelong is calling on feedback for future major events.
Mayor Trent Sullivan said 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,” he said.
“Community input is vital in helping us to identify new opportunities and securing a wide range of exciting events for our region.”
“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,” Chair of the Geelong Major Events Committee and deputy mayor Anthony Aitken said.
“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.”
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.
Extra resources have been allocated to the waterfront to ensure an enjoyable experience for visitors.
For more traffic and transport information for the 2024 Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race visit cadelevansgreatoceanroadrace.com.au/about/traffic and for for more information about the Festival of Sails see festivalofsails.com.au
