Tourism Together: Make it Matter

In partnership with Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism, we’re excited to bring back Tourism Together in 2026. This year’s conference, emceed by former AFLW player and commentator for Seven Network, Abbey Holmes, is designed to help you navigate the trends, challenges and opportunities shaping the future of tourism.  

We kick things off with powerful insights from Simon Kuestenmacher, Co-Founder of the Demographics Group, as he unpacks key industry trends and practical takeaways. You’ll also hear from Simon Griffiths, CEO of Who Gives a Crap, whose inspiring keynote will leave you motivated to make every interaction matter.   

Sessions throughout the day will explore a range of topics, including agritourism, cyber risk, customer experience, business events and artificial intelligence.   

Whether you’re looking to future-proof your business, enhance visitor experiences or stay ahead of industry change, this conference offers valuable knowledge, inspiration and connection. 

Breakout Sessions : You will need to select two breakout sessions when completing your checkout

Customer Service: Elevate Your Customer Experience

In this session, discover how to create seamless experiences, turn feedback into growth, and strengthen collaboration across our region. Leave with practical tools, clear insights and actions you can put into practice straight away.

Protecting Your Business: Cyber Crime, Scams & Financial Risk

Could your business withstand a cyber attack or scam? Join a panel of legal, insurance and banking experts as they share practical advice on protecting your business, reducing risk and responding effectively when incidents occur.

More Than Meetings: How Business Events Benefit Our Region

Business events are won by destinations but delivered by operators. Discover how the business events ecosystem works and where opportunities exist for your business.

THE DETAILS

DATE: Wednesday 5 August 2026

TIME: 8:45am registration for a 9:15am start - 5:00pm (includes networking drinks)

WHERE: Nyaal Banyal Geelong Convention & Event Centre, 80 Western Beach Road, Geelong

INCLUSIONS: Full day Conference, morning tea, lunch, networking drinks & canapes.

TICKETS:

Financial Members - $170

Non Financial/Subscription Members - $230

RSVP by: Friday 24th July 2026

We acknowledge that Geelong and The Bellarine is Wadawurrung Country.

We welcome visitors to our region, a place we acknowledge has been cared for by the Wadawurrung people of the Kulin Nation for thousands of years.

The environment is a key reason visitors choose this destination. Traditional Owners sharing the beauty and joy of these lands and waterways is a privilege, one we repay with respect for their country, Elders and people.

You’ll have noticed that we’ve changed ticketing platform recently so 100% of profits from ticket sales goes towards children charities.