Client: Peace of Mind Foundation
Location: Geelong, Victoria
Venue: Crowne Plaza Geelong
Dates: 17–19 June 2026
Delegates: 45
Event Type: Retreat
The Brief
The Foundation needed more than a conference venue. It was searching for a location that offered accessible accommodation, proximity to a major hospital and airport, and a calm environment where participants experiencing fatigue, mobility challenges and cognitive impacts could feel comfortable throughout the retreat.
Although based in Victoria, much of the organiser’s previous travel experience had been interstate, making many regional Victorian destinations unfamiliar. With limited resources and a quite specific event brief, the search for the right location could easily have become overwhelming. Through Business Events Victoria’s guidance, the team discovered a range of locations they may not have otherwise considered, opening up new possibilities for the retreat.
Why Geelong?
Geelong was selected for its unique combination of accessibility, quality accommodation and relaxing waterfront setting.
Located within easy reach of both Avalon and Melbourne airports and close to a major hospital, the destination offered peace of mind for organisers and attendees alike. Crowne Plaza Geelong proved to be the ideal venue, hosting approximately 90 per cent of the retreat program, including accommodation, workshops, wellbeing sessions, meals and social activities.
The hotel provided flexible event spaces and a range of accessible room options to accommodate guests with varying mobility and support needs. Combined with the genuine care and flexibility of the Crowne Plaza team, the venue created a safe, inclusive and comfortable environment where participants could focus on their wellbeing and connection with others.
The waterfront location further enhanced the experience, offering a peaceful backdrop that encouraged participants to slow down, relax and fully engage in the retreat.
Delivering a Meaningful Retreat
The Women’s Brain Tumour Patient Retreat brought together women from across Australia to participate in a program centered on connection, education, wellbeing and support.
Through facilitated workshops, wellbeing activities and shared experiences, participants formed meaningful friendships and built ongoing support networks that continue beyond the retreat. For many attendees, it was the first time they had met another woman living with a brain tumor diagnosis.
Success was measured not only by delivering a high-quality, accessible event, but by creating an environment where participants felt understood, supported and less isolated.
“These last few days have been some of the most meaningful of my life. It was so moving, and quite a relief, to meet others who understand what I’ve gone through. I feel more understood and less alone.” – Retreat Participant
Creating Regional Impact
Hosting the retreat in Geelong generated significant benefits for the region while highlighting regional Victoria as a destination for purpose-driven business events.
The event supported local accommodation providers, hospitality businesses, transport operators and tourism experiences while generating visitor expenditure from delegates travelling from both Victoria and interstate. Many participants extended their stay or explored other parts of the region, creating additional economic benefits.
The retreat also partnered with regional organisations including The Gordon TAFE, where beauty therapy students provided complimentary treatments for attendees. These collaborations highlighted the strength of Geelong’s local business community and demonstrated how regional partnerships can enhance delegate experiences while supporting local industry.
Beyond its economic contribution, the retreat highlighted Geelong as an accessible, inclusive destination capable of hosting meaningful health, wellbeing and community-focused events.
A Destination That Made a Difference
Hosting the retreat in regional Victoria had a profound impact on the delegate experience.
Geelong’s waterfront setting offers a calm and restorative environment that allows participants to step away from the pressures of everyday life and focus on wellbeing, connection and self-care. Compared with a metropolitan location, the destination provided a more intimate and less overwhelming atmosphere while still delivering excellent accommodation, accessibility and event infrastructure.
For attendees living with fatigue, cognitive challenges and sensory overload, the regional setting created the sense of comfort and respite that was central to the retreat’s success.
Many participants left not only with lasting memories of the retreat, but also with a newfound appreciation for Geelong as a welcoming destination.
Business Events Victoria's Support from Event brief to right fit
Business Events Victoria played a key role in helping the Peace of Mind Foundation identify and secure the ideal destination and venue.
Working closely with the organisation, Business Events Victoria sourced venues across regional Victoria, coordinated proposals and quotations, arranged site inspections, and connected the team with accommodation providers and local suppliers that aligned with the event brief.
By taking the time to understand the event objectives and the unique needs of participants, Business Events Victoria provided trusted advice and recommendations that gave organisers confidence throughout the decision-making process. Their knowledge of regional destinations, accessibility requirements and venue capabilities helped match the Foundation with a venue that prioritised wellbeing, comfort, accessibility and ease of movement for attendees.
For a small not-for-profit organisation with limited resources, this personalised support significantly reduced the time and effort required to research venues, compare options and coordinate suppliers. Business Events Victoria’s local knowledge and industry connections streamlined the planning process and introduced the Foundation to opportunities and contacts it would not have identified independently.
“Business Events Victoria brought enormous value to our planning process by acting as a trusted advisor, connector and local expert throughout the venue sourcing and selection phase.” – Peace Of Mind
