Following more than a decade of lighting up the waterfront, the much-loved Floating Christmas Tree is approaching the end of its operational life, providing an opportunity to shape the next focal point.

In the lead-up to Christmas, the City will open an Expression of Interest (EOI) inviting creative minds to help shape an iconic new centrepiece that is distinctly Geelong and reflects our status as a UNESCO City of Design.

The aim is to create a memorable and much-loved part of Christmas in Geelong that our community and visitors can enjoy for years to come. Ideas could incorporate contemporary lighting, digital technology, interactive features and immersive experiences.

The proposed initial project budget is up to $1.9 million, covering design, engineering, fabrication, delivery, commissioning and the first installation for Christmas 2028. Ongoing costs for installation, storage, maintenance and future enhancements will be considered separately.

Christmas in Geelong is one of the city’s major seasonal attractions, bringing people into central Geelong and supporting local businesses. In 2024, the program attracted approximately 230,000 visitors, with 71% coming to central Geelong specifically for Christmas activities. The program generated an estimated $18.09 million in economic output. Last year, foot traffic data showed the Floating Christmas Tree had 30,000 interactions per day.

Further details about the EOI process will be shared soon.

Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM

We want to create something that captures the imagination – an attraction that feels right at home on our waterfront but offers something genuinely new.

For more than a decade, the Floating Christmas Tree has been part of Christmas in Geelong. It has brought families together, created countless memories and given people another reason to visit and enjoy our beautiful waterfront.

However, after more than a decade of exposure to the elements and ongoing maintenance, the tree is nearing the end of its operational life. We have an opportunity to think boldly about what comes next – something distinctive, memorable and unmistakably Geelong that makes our community proud.

We know how much the tree means to our community, and we want to build on that legacy. Geelong has a proud creative and manufacturing heritage, and our UNESCO City of Design status gives us a fantastic platform to explore what is possible.

We're looking for a design that goes beyond being just a Christmas decoration, to create a real experience for people, one that encourages visitors to stay longer, explore the city and come back year after year.

Background:

First launched in November 2014, the existing tree was constructed by local company Hanlon Industries using hot-dip galvanised steel. Standing 25 metres tall and weighing around 15 tonnes, it features hundreds of lights and digital windows and has evolved over the years to incorporate new lighting, sound and visitor experiences.

Originally designed for an expected operational lifespan of 10 years, the tree will soon enter its 13th season. Engineers evaluate its structural integrity annually, with current assessments indicating it could return for two more Christmas seasons but is beyond repair.