---

It is the largest regional community in all of Australia with almost 250,000 inhabitants. The name is derived from the Aboriginal word Jillong, which means bay. Geelong is made up of many of them, such as the vibrant Corio Bay and its spectacular coastline. A calm river called Barwon River, bathes the fields, the city, and empties into the sea. The inhabitants of Geelong live a lifestyle that mixes the cosmopolitan with the rural, and with satellite communities along the sea and in other bays. The region is also considered a gateway to one of the best and most beautiful beaches in the world, with the fabulous Great Ocean Road passing through breathtaking sights. On the Great South Road, sculptures made in the sea by nature called ´´ The 12 Apostles, are like giant stone pillars, which were eroded by the waves and by the wind, and are lined up in the sand on the beach. The road goes over a ravine, and from it it is possible to see them from one of the various viewpoints.

The seafront was recently refurbished and was officially elected the most beautiful in all of Australia. The work included a large laser area, with restaurants, gardens, hiking and bicycle tracks, skateboards, public venues for shows and art exhibitions. In the central part, called Steampacket Quay and Steampacket Gardens, there is a kind of botanical garden on the seafront, where you can have a picnic on the gram. To complement the grandeur and beauty of the park, a public swimming pool in Arte-deco was renovated. This complex is located on Ritchie Boulevard and Eastern Beach Road, and was built in 1930, having the postcard of the city made. The sea bathing area was also expanded, including their own premises, so that small children can play in the sea without major dangers. Fountains and pavilions were also built, and decorated with lights and colored effects. The traditional Carroussel was renovated and re-painted, and attracts children and lovers in equal numbers, being one of the few Carroussel to the seafront in the world, which still plays 19th century melodies. On weekends the area stays full of inhabitants and tourists, to see and buy in the food fairs, made by hand in haciendas. Fresh cheeses without additives, legumes, homemade sweets, homemade cookies, and a world of goodies can be found in those markets. Sporting events and competitions also take place on weekends, such as skateboarding championships, bicycle races, and many others. The place is really very beautiful, and for sure, the most beautiful seafront in all of Australia. At night with the special lighting they placed, it is even more beautiful, especially on warm summer nights.





Geelong is located in the state of Victoria only 75 km Southwest of Melbourne to the shoreline.

The Geelong Center is the main focus of commerce in the entire region, and has all the types of shops you can imagine.

The center of Geelong also benefits from the proximity of tourist spots that are highly sought after by both Australians and foreigners, such as the Bellerine Peninsula, with its paradisiacal beaches. The center of Geelong itself has become a tourist hub, offering all types of accommodations, from backpackers to luxury hotels. Restaurants, bars, pubs, and boates make the nightlife hectic and dynamic with many parties and shows always happening. The people of Geelong take pride in the city, and live in a relaxed way, without the rush and stress of neighboring Melbourne.

---