Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre has become the first convention centre in the Asia-Pacific to receive the WELL Health-Safety Rating.
The internationally recognised certification follows the venue’s recent 5-Star Green Star rating for environmentally sustainable building practices.
The WELL rating is administered by the International WELL Building Institute and requires third-party verification of strategies covering cleaning and sanitisation, emergency preparedness, health services, air and water quality management, and stakeholder engagement. Nyaal Banyul achieved 16 verified features.
Initiatives noted in the certification include:
- enhanced cleaning and sanitisation
- improved indoor air quality through increased outdoor air and high-efficiency filtration
- emergency preparedness planning
- clear health and wellbeing policies.
The Green Star Buildings rating, from the Green Building Council of Australia, assesses the sustainability performance of a building’s design and construction. Nyaal Banyul was recognised for its management of carbon, water and construction materials, its solutions addressing the social health of the community, and its responsible design, procurement, construction and handover.
Nyaal Banyul general manager Rick Aylett said the certifications were a significant milestone for the venue.
“From day one, our focus has been on delivering exceptional event experiences while supporting the wellbeing of our visitors and staff,” he said. “These credentials demonstrate that commitment is embedded in both the design and operation of the venue.”
Plenary Group chief executive officer Paul Crowe said the credentials created a lasting legacy for Geelong.
“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,” he said.
Built head of operations Andrew Morgan said the certifications reflected the project’s long-term focus on delivering lasting value for Geelong and the wider region.
“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,” he said.
