The 2020 G21 Stakeholder Forum this year moved to a shorter on-line format due to COVID-19, streaming and broadcasting live on Friday 4 December from Geelong Library.
The keynote speaker was international journalist and author Stan Grant who talked on China, the international political landscape and indigenous affairs, among other matters.
Wadawurrung woman and traditional owner Corrina Eccles and Sarrah Eccles presented the Wadawurrung Aboriginal Corporation’s local Healthy Country Plan.
Both Premier Daniel Andrews and Opposition Leader Michael O’Brien presented messages to the region.
The Urbis company’s Director of Future Studies Kate Meyrick presented ‘A Mission Fit G21’, an informative socio-economic analysis focusing on Geelong and the G21 region.
This year’s panel discussion involved Deakin University Vice Chancellor Prof Iain Martin, Victoria Tourism Industry Council CEO Felicia Mariani and Geelong Arts Centre CEO Joel McGuinness discussing the impact of COVID-19 on their industries and how they see their recovery.
Past forums have showcased significant economic development proposals for the region. This year viewers learned about the $350 million CORA elite sports training and tourism complex proposed for Modewarre, south-west of Geelong.
It was G21 CEO Elaine Carbines’ last G21 forum as CEO. Elaine reported on the year and reflected on 10 years at the helm of G21 and the changes over that time.
The forum’s closing remarks were from newly elected G21 Chair Cr Stephanie Asher, Mayor of the City of Greater Geelong.
The Master of Ceremonies for the forum was Dr Geoff Russell.
The forum was sponsored by Urbis, Times News Group, GeelongPort and Regional Development Australia Barwon South West.
Video and audio production was by Bellarine AV. The forum was broadcast live by 94.7 The Pulse.
For those who missed it, the forum can be viewed by CLICKING HERE. (Note: Use short-cut links to go directly to each segment)