The preferred bidder to build the Geelong Convention Centre has been announced.
Plenary Conventions will lead the almost $300 million project, funded by the Victorian and federal governments and City of Greater Geelong.
The precinct will include a 1,000 seat venue, two large exhibition spaces, meeting rooms and flexible event spaces.
Retail spaces and a 200-room hotel will also be part of the Centre.
Member for Geelong Christine Couzens said the designs had been unveiled.
“We’re all very excited to have seen the designs which look really impressive,” Ms Couzens said.
“It’ll be another iconic building for Geelong.”
The local MP said it was a chance for groups and organisations across Victoria’s south-west to use the Convention Centre instead of heading to Melbourne.
The project is expected to support 600 jobs during construction and another 270 ongoing jobs once the precinct is completed.
Preliminary works are currently underway, with construction due to start shortly.
It is hoped the convention centre and hotel will be finished in 2026.
Picture: An artist’s impression of the Convention Centre [Development Victoria]