Geelong & The Bellarine shines as host destination for two Australia Next famils

Australia Next Famil Program Highlighted Geelong And The Bellarine

Geelong and The Bellarine were proud to be selected as the host destination for two Australia Next famil programs, welcoming 40 incentive planners into the region to experience first-hand the calibre, creativity and diversity of incentive experiences available just one hour from Melbourne.

Across two distinct programs, planners immersed themselves in exclusive, once-in-a-lifetime experiences that showcased the region’s ability to deliver unforgettable incentive itineraries - from wildlife encounters and heritage grandeur to coastal adventure, artisan workshops and paddock-to-plate produce.

Group One: Wildlife, heritage and sailing on Corio Bay

Group One began their journey at Werribee Open Range Zoo, where guests explored the zoo on foot before embarking on a deluxe safari tour. This behind-the-scenes experience offered rare, up-close encounters with wildlife in an expansive, open landscape — an unforgettable way to start the day.

From there, the group stepped back in time at Lancemore Mansion Werribee Park. Guests embraced the grandeur of the estate with a dress-up experience, followed by a horse-and-carriage ride through the historic grounds. The experience continued with exclusive access to Werribee Mansion, where guests enjoyed a three-course lunch in one of the mansion’s elegant heritage halls - a setting rarely accessible to groups.

The day concluded on the water at Royal Geelong Yacht Club, where guests took to Corio Bay for a sailing experience, soaking up the coastal beauty of Geelong from a new perspective.

Group Two: Coastal journeys, local produce and creative immersion

Group Two’s experience began in Melbourne, travelling across Port Phillip Bay aboard Port Phillip Ferries from Docklands to Portarlington - an arrival that immediately set the tone for a relaxed yet premium incentive experience.

From Portarlington, guests headed to Jack Rabbit Vineyard, where they split their time between a guided wine masterclass and scenic helicopter flights along the bay. From the air, guests were treated to a truly bespoke moment, spotting customised sand sculpture artwork created exclusively for the group along the coastline.

Next, the group visited Tuckerberry Hill, where a curated paddock-to-providore experience awaited. Guests met local makers, sampled fresh regional produce and then wandered through the orchards, hand-picking organic berries and fruit straight from the source — a genuine and immersive taste of the Bellarine.

The day continued in Geelong with a wine blending experience at Provenance Wines, where guests created their own bespoke wine blend, bottled and labelled to take home as a lasting memento of their time in the region.

The final experience took place at Elizabeth Bell Ceramics, where guests tried their hand at throwing on the wheel before painting their own ceramic pieces. These personalised creations were glazed and delivered to guests the following day — a meaningful and tactile reminder of their incentive journey.

A destination that delivers unforgettable incentives

Hosting two Australia Next famils reinforced Geelong and The Bellarine’s position as a compelling incentive destination, offering depth, variety and exclusivity within close proximity to Melbourne. From coastlines and countryside to creative studios and heritage icons, the region continues to surprise planners with its ability to deliver tailored, high-impact incentive experiences.

For incentive planners seeking something truly memorable - without the need for long travel times - Geelong and The Bellarine deliver exceptional value, authenticity and wow-factor in equal measure. Visit our incentive page to find out more.

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