Navigating today’s dynamic hospitality landscape requires resilience and innovation. Recognising these challenges, we are thrilled to announce applications are now open for Tourism Greater Geelong and the Bellarine’s 2026 Hospitality Mentoring Program.
The program provides personalised mentorship and expert guidance to equip you with the tools and knowledge necessary for operational efficiency, improving financial sustainability, resilience and long-term success.
Due to limited places and strong demand—the program was oversubscribed last year—applications will be assessed through a competitive selection process.
What’s involved?
The Hospitality Mentoring Program 2026 will provide tailored guidance through up to 6 hours of personalised one-on-one consultations with an experienced industry expert.
You will receive guidance on building long-term sustainability, resilience, sustainable business practices, and fostering local partnerships. Consultations will include practical tips and strategies to boost your bottom line, improve efficiency, and enhance your customer experience.
Mentoring is a guided process—your mentor provides advice, perspective and support as you make decisions and implement change in your own business.
Why should you apply?
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Your Business, Your Decisions: You stay in control of your business and the work you undertake—your mentor provides guidance, insight and accountability as you make decisions and implement change.
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Tailored Expert Guidance: You’ll learn from an industry expert who understands the unique challenges and opportunities in the hospitality sector.
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Practical Strategies: You’ll gain actionable tools and techniques to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, boost revenue and enhance your business’s performance and resilience.
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Long-Term Sustainability: You’ll build resilience and future-proof your business with sustainable practices and local partnerships.
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It’s free: The 2026 Hospitality Mentoring Program is run by Tourism Greater Geelong and the Bellarine and funded by DJSIR through an Industry Strengthening Program grant which means your cost to participate in the program is 100% covered (value $2500).
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Limited Spots, Maximum Impact: Places are limited to a maximum of 8 businesses.
Who Should Apply?
- Small to medium-sized hospitality businesses in the Greater Geelong and Bellarine region.
- Business owners who are passionate about growing their business and contributing to the local visitor economy.
- Financial members of Tourism Greater Geelong and The Bellarine (Industry services, Base and premium membership levels)
How to apply
- Submit the expression of interest form by COB Wednesday 18 March by clicking here.
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Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for a short informal interview.
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Successful applicants will be advised and will commence consultations after Easter.
Places are extremely limited. Express your interest now!
This program was proudly supported and funded by a Department of Jobs Skills Industry and Regions (DJSIR) Regional Tourism Network Industry Strengthening Program grant.
For more information contact:
Jarred Parsons
Strategy and Operations Manager
Tourism Greater Geelong and The Bellarine
jarred.parsons@tourismgellongbellarine.com.au
