Geelong

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The name 'Geelong' is derived from the Aboriginal word for bay, Jillong which means 'a place of the sea bird over the white cliffs'. Aptly named, Geelong is surrounded by water from its vibrant Corio Bay to the rugged ocean coastline and the Barwon River flowing through its suburbs.

This waterfront city has a diverse range of attractions including parks and gardens, museums and galleries, fine restaurants and excellent recreational facilities. Geelong's colonial history has resulted in a legacy of historic buildings, some of which are open to the public, courtesy of the National Trust.

There's been something of a revolution on the waterfront of Geelong. What's transpired is a $150 million makeover that has created a vibrant and fun-filled destination for everyone. The city is now taking full advantage of its unique north-facing bay - the waterfront is blossoming with additional eateries and a landscaped new look set against the backdrop of Corio Bay.

A feature of Geelong's waterfront is 100 sculpture bollards dotted along the foreshore. These whimsical icons chronicle characters from the city's past and present. Check out the dapper young ladies in neck-to-knee bathing costumes, spunky lifesavers, traditional Aussie families, a Geelong footballer, jaunty sailors, fishermen and a jolly town band. These delightful - 2m high - wooden pole bollards were created by artist Jan Mitchell and are a hit with young and old.

Close by on Corio Bay is Geelong's Eastern Beach. In recent years the art deco-style pools and promenade complex have also had major renovations. Visit this area and enjoy verdant lawns, palm trees, playground, rotundas, fountain and views of Corio Bay. A restored pavilion at Eastern Beach called 'Beach House' now houses a pleasant restaurant, cafe and kiosk, the perfect place for coffee and cake.

Pakington Street, the wide tree-lined avenue linking the suburbs of Geelong West and Newtown, is also well worth a visit. There are many different restaurants and eateries to try, delicatessens, wine merchants, a park to relax in and a street ambience to experience. It's only a few minutes from the city.

Special Features

Brisbane Ranges National Park - the state's richest wildflower habitat
Serendip Sanctuary - bird hides enable you to see some of the 150 species of birds which breed here
Steiglitz Historic Park - almost a ghost town today, but in the 1860's and 1890's it was a busy goldmining township
You Yangs Regional Park - the granite peaks of the You Yangs rise dramatically in the
Werribee lava plains

Things to do

Dine on freshly caught local seafood at a Waterfront Geelong restaurant
Visit the National Wool Museum for a look at Australia’s wool-growing history
Enjoy a live performance at the Geelong Performing Arts Centre
Catch the action of an Australian rules football game at Shell Stadium
Take a bay cruise or fly into the air for a more spectacular perspective
Commune with nature at Serendip Sanctuary, near Lara
Visit historic homes and discover the local history (100 buildings classified by the National Trust)
Learn about the Port of Geelong & its history at the Naval and Maritime Museum
Visit the Geelong Art Gallery and its outstanding collection of works