GME was established as a Council Advisory Committee in 1988, and formalized under section 86 of the Local Government Act 1989 in October 1999.

GME continues to concentrate on attracting major events to Geelong that have a positive economic and social impact and generate media exposure outside the region.

Through GME, Geelong has established a reputation as a successful events city with an expanding calendar of quality, well run and safe events.

GME seeks External Committee Members in order to harness the abilities, interest and networks of people ‘outside Council’.

Refer to the attached Terms of Reference and GME annual Report to Council 2008/2009 for more information about the activities of GME.

GME objective

The role of GME is to stimulate and encourage events that offer the best opportunity to provide measurable economic benefits, potential to market Geelong outside the municipality and enhance local community life through participation of residents.

GME membership

Since 2005, following adoption of a new Terms of Reference by Council, the GME Committee has consisted of the following membership:

• The Mayor and up to three Councillors
• The Chief Executive Officer
• The Director of Geelong Otway Tourism
• Four external members from the business, arts, media or events communities

There is a maximum of ten positions on the GME Committee. External Committee Members are appointed for either a two or a four year period.

GME Membership Requirements

GME Committee Members are expected to attend a monthly Committee meeting currently held on the third Monday of each month commencing at 4.00PM at City Hall, Gheringhap Street Geelong. Meetings generally run for about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Selection process

• The External Committee Member of GME will have relevant experience in the business, arts, media or events communities.
• The term of this appointment of an external representative will be for a four-year term.
• A selection panel to review applications and make a recommendation to Council regarding the appointment will be made up of the Mayor, the Councillor who hold the portfolio for Tourism and Major Events and the Chief Executive Officer.

Selection criteria

Applicants must:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of why the City of Greater Geelong strives to attract events to the region
2. Demonstrate an ability to support the objectives of GME
3. Demonstrate an ability to bring to GME expertise in areas relevant to business, arts, media or events
4. Have the ability to allocate sufficient time to pursue GME’s goals and objectives

Note: External Committee Members of GME are appointed as individuals and not as representatives or external organisations or groups.

Special Committee accountabilities

As a member of a Special Committee of Council, you will be subject to the provisions of the Local Government Act, including:
1. Code of Conduct
2. Conflicts of Interest
3. Confidential Information

An induction will be conducted to explain processes, accountabilities and responsibilities relevant to the role of an External Committee Member of GME.

How to apply