Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust has announced the appointment of Rick Aylett as general manager of the new venue.

His appointment follows a tenure as project director for Nyaal Banyul, where he has driven the venue’s design and development, and planned its future operations since 2022.

“I’m honoured to be given this opportunity and look forward to working with the team to deliver meaningful and world-class experiences for event organisers and attendees,” says Aylett.

“Greater Geelong is such an incredible destination with so much to offer, and I’m thrilled to be connecting and partnering with the Geelong community.

“The longstanding local support and advocacy for the convention centre is the reason we exist.

“Nyaal Banyul will be a game-changer for Geelong, and I’m eager to contribute to its success.”

Funded by the Geelong City Deal, the Nyaal Banyul precinct will include a purpose-built convention and exhibition space, incorporating a 1000-seat venue, two large exhibition spaces, meeting rooms, conference facilities and flexible event spaces.

The precinct will also house retail and hospitality spaces, a large public plaza on the Geelong waterfront, and a 200-room Crowne Plaza hotel.

Aylett brings more than 30 years’ experience in senior leadership and operations management roles, including five years as head of operations at Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, as well as being the former chief executive of North Melbourne Football Club, managing director of Peter Rowland Major Events, and providing consultancy services to the AFL.

“We’re thrilled to have Rick at the helm of Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre,” says Natalie O’Brien AM, chief executive of Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust.

“His proven leadership and vast experience in the industry will be instrumental in establishing Nyaal Banyul as the best regional convention centre in Australia.”