FORMER Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC) head of operations, Rick Aylett, has been named as general manager of the upcoming Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre.
Aylett’s appointment was announced by Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Trust. The trust owns and operates MCEC and is expected top open the Nyaal Banyul Geelong venue in 2026 as part of its portfolio.
Since 2022, Aylett has been project director for the Geelong venue, playing a pivotal role in Nyaal Banyul’s design and development while planning its future operations.
Funded by the Geelong City Deal – a federal government-backed development plan for the city – the Nyaal Banyul precinct will include a purpose-built convention and exhibition space, incorporating a 1,000 seat venue, two large exhibition spaces, meeting rooms, conference facilities and flexible event spaces.
Plans also include retail and hospitality spaces, a large public plaza that promises to become a feature of the Geelong waterfront and a 200-room Crowne Plaza hotel.
Aylett brings more than 30 years of experience in senior leadership and operations management to the new role and was previously head of operations at MCEC for five years.
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He has led the strategic development and operational delivery of over 60 international events, including the Commonwealth Games in India and the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup in Australia and New Zealand.
His experience also includes serving as chief executive of the North Melbourne Football Club, managing director of Peter Rowland Major Events, and providing consultancy services to the Australian Football League.
Natalie O’Brien, MCEC chief executive Aylett was selected from a strong field of candidates for his experience, skills and passion for delivering excellence in event management.
“We’re thrilled to have Rick at the helm of Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre,” she said.
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“His proven leadership and vast experience in the industry will be instrumental in establishing Nyaal Banyul as the best regional convention centre in Australia.”
Aylett said: “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,” said Mr Aylett.
“Greater Geelong is such an incredible destination with so much to offer.”
“I’m also 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,” he said.
