In the lead up to and following AIME this year, Meet Geelong & The Bellarine proudly hosted a series of immersive famil programs, welcoming event planners from across Australia, New Zealand and key international markets to experience our region firsthand.
From pre-event explorations to post-AIME extensions, these curated itineraries were designed to demonstrate exactly why our region continues to grow as a leading business events destination.
Signature Experiences Across the Region
Our guests were treated to a range of memorable experiences, including:
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A deluxe safari adventure at Werribee Open Range Zoo
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High tea and a luxurious Seed to Skin experience at Werribee Mansion
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Wine tasting and an Elizabeth Bell ceramics workshop at Provenance Wines
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Wine tasting and a Mussel Masterclass at Jack Rabbit Vineyard
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Premium tastings at Scotchmans Hill
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Blueberry picking and a homemade ice-cream experience at Tuckerberry Hill
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Accommodation and site inspections at Crowne Plaza Geelong
- Accommodation and site inspections at Holiday Inn and Suites Geelong
- A venue presentation and showcase from Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre,
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An alfresco tasting experience at The Whiskery, where guests relaxed under the vines sampling Lady & The Fox gin and whisky
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An immersive seafood experience with Portarlington Mussel Tours, showcasing the region’s renowned mussel industry
From wildlife encounters and heritage elegance to hands-on culinary workshops and waterfront luxury, the itineraries were intentionally varied — designed to showcase the breadth of experiences available for conferences, incentives and corporate groups.
Why Famils Matter
Famils are one of the most powerful tools in converting interest into confirmed business. When planners can see, taste and experience the region for themselves, they leave with confidence — and often, future programs already in mind.
The strong engagement and feedback from these groups reinforces what we know: Geelong & The Bellarine offers an accessible, high-quality alternative to capital city destinations, with standout incentive experiences that feel both premium and authentic.
Looking Ahead
This is just the beginning.
Over the next 12 months, we will be hosting a significant number of additional famils across domestic and international markets. These programs play a critical role in driving future business events into the region — and they rely on the strength of our local partners.
If you would like to be considered for inclusion in upcoming famil itineraries, we encourage you to reach out to the Meet Geelong & The Bellarine team and express your interest.
Together, we can continue to position our region as a must-experience destination for conferences, meetings and incentives.
