Geelong has been named the official Host City for the Avalon Australian International Airshow, which returns to Avalon Airport from February 23 to 28, 2027.
Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM made the announcement, marking more than three decades of the region hosting the event.
"The Avalon Airshow is one of Geelong's major events and we are proud to welcome it back to Avalon Airport every two years," Kontelj said.
"It is an event that puts Geelong on the world stage, bringing visitors, industry and investment to our region while providing opportunities for local businesses to benefit from the significant activity it generates."
Avalon has hosted the airshow since 1992. Independent analysis of the 2025 event found it generated $31.85 million in direct economic impact for Geelong.
Justin Giddings, chief executive of AMDA Foundation, which organises the airshow, said the region's long association with the event was central to its success.
"Avalon has been home to the airshow since 1992, and we know just how much Geelong and the broader region have to offer visitors," Giddings said.
"The airshow brings hundreds of thousands of people to the region, and we want to encourage visitors to stay longer, explore further and experience the incredible restaurants, wineries, tourism attractions and regional destinations on our doorstep."
"We also want to bring as many local businesses as possible along for the Avalon ride, which is why we created the Geelong is Home initiative."
The Geelong is Home initiative allows regional businesses to develop airshow-themed products or experiences and connect with the national and international audience expected at Avalon 2027. Participating businesses will be promoted through the airshow's own channels.
Hamo Hospitality is among the first to sign on, bringing an airshow theme to The Paddock Bakery in the lead-up to the event.
"We are passionate about Geelong and proud to be part of an initiative that celebrates the region's connection to the Avalon Airshow," Hamo Hospitality's Mel Pedersen-Cook said.
"The airshow brings a huge audience to our doorstep, and this is a fantastic opportunity to showcase our business, welcome visitors and be part of the excitement building across Geelong."
Kontelj said the airshow created opportunities across multiple sectors of the local economy.
"From our local manufacturers and businesses contributing to Australia's defence industry, through to our hospitality, tourism and retail sectors, the Avalon Airshow provides a platform for Geelong businesses to connect with a global audience," he said.
"Geelong is Home is another way for local businesses to be part of this major event and showcase the best of our region to visitors from Australia and around the world."
The Avalon Australian International Airshow returns to Avalon Airport from February 23 to 28, 2027.