Step Into History at Geelong’s Most Anticipated Night of 2026
By Zoe Waters, Executive Director, Barwon Health Foundation
There are moments in a city’s story that feel different. Moments that signal progress, pride and possibility.
Since April 2024, as we’ve driven along our glorious waterfront, our community has watched the rise of Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre, taking shape brick by brick, beam by beam.
It stands as a powerful symbol of our city’s progress, our ambition, and our confidence in the future.
That is why it is an honour to share that we have the privilege of hosting the very first event in this extraordinary new venue.
Ticket sales have officially opened for the Barwon Health Foundation Gala Ball, presented by the City of Greater Geelong. And I can say with absolute certainty, this is not an event you will want to miss.
On Friday 3 July, we will gather for the first-ever gala ball held at Nyaal Banyul, a night that will see this landmark venue open its doors in spectacular fashion, and together, we will be part of history.
But beyond the elegance, celebration and remarkable setting, this evening stands for something greater: purpose and health.
The Gala Ball will mark the public launch of the Barwon Health Foundation’s Barwon Women’s and Children’s Appeal, complementing the single largest investment by government in health infrastructure our region has ever seen.
It represents more supported care for women, children and families. Close to home. When it matters most.
Philanthropy has a role to play in this once-in-a-generation moment. Together, we can enhance the future of local care, for local women, children and families.
What makes this event truly special is that it is, in every sense, Geelong through and through. A gala for Geelong, by Geelong.
Our region’s finest will deliver a curated three-course culinary experience, paired with exceptional local wines, local artists and performers will take to the stage. And our community, business and civic leaders, healthcare workers, families and philanthropists, will come together under one roof.
It will be a night that reflects who we are as a city: generous, connected and deeply proud of where we live.
And at the heart of it all is a simple invitation:
Your table. Your people. One unforgettable night.
Whether you gather colleagues, clients, friends or family, hosting a table is your opportunity to be part of something bigger, an intimate way to experience a gala evening, from a cultural welcome to premier live entertainment in one of our most exciting new venues.
There are limited tables available, and interest is already strong. Moments like this don’t come around often, - not just for the experience, but for the impact they create.
So, the Mayor of the City of Greater Geelong, Stretch Kontelj OAM, General Manager of Nyaal Banyul, Rick Aylett and Catherine Middlemiss, Chair of Barwon Women’s and Children’s Appeal invite you to join us. To celebrate Geelong. To support the future of healthcare for women, children and families at Barwon Health.
Visit barwonhealthfoundation.org.au to reserve your table today. Limited sponsorship opportunities are also available; our team would be delighted to start a conversation with you at foundation@barwonhealth.org.au.
We look forward to welcoming you to the inaugural Barwon Health Foundation Gala Ball -presented by the City of Greater Geelong.
Reserve your seat at Geelong’s table: www.barwonhealthfoundation.org.au
