More about Geelong
Why go to Geelong?
Whether relaxing on the beach or exploring the art scene, visitors will find something fun to do in Geelong
Not all beaches are patrolled by lifeguards, so be careful of undercurrents (rips) and strong waves
An artsy city with a unique past and plenty of sights and attractions
Geelong Cruise Port Facilities?
The Port of Geelong is a busy working port, the largest regional port in Victoria. Large cruise ships anchor in Corio Bay off Central Geelong and passengers are tendered ashore to Cunningham Pier just a couple of blocks from the city centre. The pier is well located for enjoying the waterfront, shopping, or visiting sights in the town.
Good to Know?
Those brightly painted and quirkily decorated Baywalk Bollards are the work of local artist Jan Mitchell. She created these in the mid-1990s, painting more than 100 timber bollards that had once been a vital part of the port. They are worth looking at carefully as they reflect local history and identities. You won't miss seeing them as they are dotted all around the waterfront between Rippleside Park and Limeburners Point and the Geelong Botanic Gardens.
Getting Around?
By bike: Bicycles may be hired from Geelong Bike Hire; 0401 217 877
By bus: Geelong buses use the myki card, a reusable credit-card-sized Smartcard that you can buy and top up at more than 800 retailers including: all 7-Eleven Stores; the ticket office window at Premium Stations and staffed V/Line commuter stations; from a myki machine (full-fare myki cards only) located at all train stations and major tram and bus interchanges; on the website and by calling, in Australia, 1800 800 007. If you have an Android phone you can use a digital myki on the Google Pay app.
By car: All the major rental car companies are represented in the city so get details from the Visitor Information Centre. If you are hiring a car, it is good to know that metered parking in the city is available during weekdays with free parking during weekends and public holidays and is often time-limited.
By helicopter: If you would like to see Geelong and the bay and beaches from the air without getting wet, Geelong Helicopters (0422 515 151) are on the waterfront at Yarra Street Pier.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
ATMs and currency exchanges may be found throughout the town at banks, in shopping centres and many hotels. Withdrawals will be in Australian currency, usually in $50 and $20 notes. U.S. dollars are not acceptable when shopping, but major credit cards are generally welcome.
Language?
English is spoken in Geelong. Listen carefully, though, and you may detect a slightly different vowel use in Victoria. For instance, Melbourne becomes Malbourne, and television is talevision.
