Nyaal Banyul - Geelong Convention and Event Centre .
As we celebrate 160 years of local manufacturing, we launch Enviro Grip™, a new world-leading flooring technology now installed at Geelong’s landmark new Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre.
Designed specifically for high-performance event spaces, Enviro Grip™ features a unique technology designed for carpet tiles to grip firmly to sealed and finished hard surface floors, without the need for adhesives.
Installed across 2,800 square metres of the precinct, the removable system enables the venue to adapt quickly to changing event requirements, extend the life of flooring through easier replacement, and reduce downtime associated with traditional uplift and re-lay processes.
“Enviro Grip™ technology makes the venue’s hall and theatre carpet removable without the need for adhesives - a major advantage for exhibition spaces,” said GH Commercial National Commercial Sales Manager, Joel Williamson. “Our involvement early in the design process enabled development of industry-leading carpet technology to deliver on the project’s custom requirements.”
Innovation Developed with Geelong, for Geelong
The $449 million Nyaal Banyul development is the centrepiece of the Geelong City Deal investment and is on track to open in July 2026. With events already booked in, the precinct is expected to drive visitation and economic growth for the region, while creating hundreds of ongoing jobs.
The new technology was brought to market through close collaboration between local Geelong manufacturer Godfrey Hirst and the Plenary Conventions consortium head contractor Built, to satisfy the flexible flooring needs of the Centre’s exhibition and convention spaces.
This partnership was instrumental in developing a tailored flooring solution that addresses GCEC’s flexible flooring needs. The collaboration exemplifies how strong local industry partnerships and manufacturing capability can drive innovation, resulting in a purpose-built product that delivers performance and versatility.
For GH Commercial, the project has been a showcase of local capability and a catalyst for innovation. The proximity of the manufacturing team to the site enabled Enviro Grip™ to be developed, tested and refined through close collaboration with the delivery partners.
“Godfrey Hirst's close proximity allowed our delivery team, architect Woods Bagot and Godfrey Hirst's technical team to develop and test Enviro Grip™ technology onsite,” said Built Head of Operations Andrew Morgan. “It also enabled a responsive design process to perfect the culturally influenced design.”
A Design that Celebrates Wadawurrung Heritage
Co-designed with the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, the carpet design is the latest in a long list of features at Nyaal Banyul that celebrate Wadawurrung Culture. The result is a flooring solution that is not only technically advanced but deeply connected to Country and community.
“As we celebrate 160 years of manufacturing in Geelong, our team is thrilled to launch Godfrey Hirst’s new Enviro Grip™ technology as part of Nyaal Banyul’s world-class event spaces in our hometown,” Joel Williamson said.
The Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre is funded by the Australian and Victorian Governments and the City of Greater Geelong through the Geelong City Deal. It is being delivered by Development Victoria with Plenary Group as consortium lead and Built as head contractor. The venue will be operated by the Victorian Convention and Event Trust.
