Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific
7 July 2026
Dale Hopkins, Account Manager shares insights on preparing a world-class event venue.
The Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre is one of the biggest developments in regional Victoria. Nyaal Banyul is funded by the Australian and Victorian Governments and the City of Greater Geelong through the Geelong City Deal. It is being delivered by Development Victoria with the Plenary Conventions consortium comprising Plenary Group as sponsor and investor as well as hotel and commercial office developer, Built as builder, Woods Bagot as architect and BGIS as facilities management services contractor. The venue will be operated by the Victorian Convention and Event Trust.
BGIS is responsible for ensuring that this iconic building is not only fit for purpose but future-proofed with cutting-edge technologies and assets. Our team has collaborated closely with clients throughout the design and construction stages, making certain every aspect of the building meets the highest standards.
Before the venue opened for events, the centre underwent a critical mobilisation phase. This period is dedicated to rigorous testing of all building systems, ensuring optimal performance and safety from day one. It provides a valuable opportunity for our team to work together with the new assets and demonstrate our combined expertise.
BGIS is conducting simulated activities to demonstrate and ensure the policy and procedure manual supports compliance with contractual obligations and enables the venue operator to effectively fulfil the business requirements.
During mobilisation, we test life safety systems, including fire detection, alarms, smoke control, sprinklers, and emergency lighting, all needing certification and readiness. Ensuring comfort for patrons, the air conditioning, ventilation, and pressurisation systems are balanced throughout the building. Electrical infrastructure, from power distribution and lighting to emergency power and protection systems, is assessed for reliability and load performance.
Water systems including supply, hot water, sewer, drainage, and pumping are validated for continuity and compliance. Lifts and escalators are tested for safe operation and emergency interfacing with fire systems. Security, ICT, and communications systems are proofed for interconnectivity, safeguarding people and assets around the clock.
The auditoriums feature moveable seating with mechanical movement, and these are checked for ease of use with a four-hour change period. Our entire team, including facilities managers, tradespersons, and help desk operators, come together for thorough training and hands-on experience with the building’s operations ahead of the go-live date.
From day one, we ensure robust 24/7 response processes are in place, ready to support the venue and its users. The mobilisation phase is not just about systems and protocols, it is about preparing a space where events will run smoothly, and guests will feel welcome and safe. We are proud to be part of this journey, and our team is honoured to manage the state-of-the-art venue.
Our aim is to have a fully compliant, safe, and operational building that is ready to host the visitors and events from the commencement date.
