Nyaal Banyul breaks new ground with health and safety rating

Share this story

Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Events Centre has become the first convention centre in the Asia Pacific to achieve an international health and safety rating from WELL.

An independently verified quality measure, the WELL Health-Safety rating covers indoor air and water quality, cleaning and sanitation, emergency preparedness and health and safety policies.

The air quality element – which includes a higher level of outdoor air indoors and efficient air filtration – is a particular asset for a convention centre, potentially bringing down the risk of spreading illnesses like COVID and flu during events at the venue.

“From day one, our focus has been on delivering exceptional event experiences while supporting the wellbeing of our visitors and staff,” said Nyaal Banyul general manager, Rick Aylett.

“These credentials demonstrate that commitment is embedded in both the design and operation of the venue.”

The convention centre is already 5-Star Green Star rated, recognising strong environmental, design, procurement and construction practices during the venue’s development.

“While Nyaal Banyul is recognised for its landmark architecture, these credentials show that good design goes further by minimising the impact on the environment and creating a safe and welcoming place for people,” said Plenary Group CEO, Paul Crowe.

Plenary Group was part of the consortium that developed the centre and also owns Crowne Plaza Geelong within the convention centre precinct.

“Congratulations to our project partners involved in delivering a venue that has embedded health, wellbeing and sustainability into both its design and ongoing operations,” said Crowe.

Nyaal Banyul already operates using only renewable electricity, derived from rooftop solar and renewable energy procurement.

“Our vision for Nyaal Banyul was to create a world-class venue that also sets a new benchmark in its sector for health, safety and wellbeing in Australia,” said Andrew Morgan, head of operations at Built, the builder of the convention centre and part of the consortium with Plenary Group.

“Achieving the WELL Health-Safety Rating is recognition that our commitment to excellence extends beyond construction and provides a framework to continue to deliver positive outcomes for the community well into the future.”