Waurn Ponds Estate
A modern conference centre and accommodation experience in Geelong
Welcome to Waurn Ponds Estate
A boutique conference centre and accommodation destination set on expansive grounds near Geelong. Purpose-built for seamless events, modern stays and genuine relaxation, the Estate blends contemporary design with the warmth and calm of regional Victoria.
Discover a unique conference centre and accommodation experience, with tranquil stays, seamless events, delicious food and state of the art facilities.
What sets us apart
With its secluded grounds, seasonal menus, sustainability focus and premium facilities, the Estate stands out as a truly distinctive Geelong conference venue.
The Estate difference:
- State of the art AV equipment for a seamless user experience
- Exciting and delicious conference menus with unique service options
- Elegant on site accommodation for true immersion and convenience
- A tranquil environment, providing an escape from the hustle and bustle
How to find us
The Estate sits at the rear of Deakin University’s Waurn Ponds Campus, approximately 20 minutes from the Geelong city centre and one hour from Melbourne.
How to get to the Estate:
- From Pigdons Road, enter Alfred Deakin Drive and turn left at the first roundabout onto Nicol Drive South
- Follow this road to the end until you reach Waurn Ponds Estate, which will be on your right
- We have put together a map to help you
While you’re here
The Estate is a true escape, full of wonderful amenities on our expansive grounds. Free wi-fi and complimentary parking are just the beginning.
- Take a stroll along our 5 km walking track
- Enjoy the outdoor heated swimming pool and spa
- Work out in the 24-hour gym
- Play a game of tennis on the courts
- Stay in and sample our Express Dining menu, available Monday – Friday 11am – 7pm
Want to find out more about our conference packages?
Click below to download our conference kit. Once submitted, a team member will be in touch if you’d like assistance planning your next multi-day retreat or corporate conference in Geelong.
The Estate is now open on Weekends
Escape to the Estate — a premium conference centre mid-week and a secluded retreat on weekends. Relax in our exceptional rooms while exploring the Geelong region or attending a local event.
We provide a tranquil environment with a warm welcome close to the attractions of Geelong, the Surf Coast and the Bellarine.
Have a question or enquiry?
Contact our friendly team for assistance with accommodation, events or your next corporate conference in Geelong.
Helpful Information
What are the Estate’s opening hours?
Waurn Ponds Estate is open seven days a week for conferences, events and accommodation.
What is the Estate’s conference capacity?
Waurn Ponds Estate has eight technology rich conference spaces, with a range of sizes.
Our smaller meeting rooms can accommodate up to 10 people, while our largest conference space can hold 154 delegates.
Find out more about our different conference rooms, configurations and capacities here.
Does Waurn Ponds Estate have break out rooms?
The Estate’s six smaller meeting rooms located amongst the accommodation wings offer excellent breakout rooms with full AV facilities.
The design of the Estate’s common areas, event spaces and grounds encourage informal breakout sessions. Small groups of people can find a quiet spot to brainstorm, discuss ideas, reflect, or plan within the lounges, quiet seating corners, available event spaces and in the garden.
Find out more about our conference spaces here.
Can I make a booking at the Estate if I am not associated with Deakin?
Absolutely. Our conference centre and accommodation are open to all organisations and individuals.
Please do not hesitate to get in touch with our team for a custom quote to suit your needs.
You are also welcome to join us for our Express Bistro menu Monday - Friday.
What is the Estate’s accommodation capacity?
We offer 60 contemporary rooms that can host up to 120 guests when twinned or shared — a premium solution for groups seeking a conference venue with accommodation. Rooms include two luxury suites and three accessible rooms, each with modern amenities and garden, pool or Estate views.
Find out more about our accommodation options and inclusions here.
Does the Estate offer catering and events?
We offer full-day conference catering at Waurn Ponds Estate, with a range of packages available, plus options for dinner. All conference packages include all-day espresso coffee and tea.
We also provide catering for events such as cocktail parties, sit-down banquets, corporate lunches, morning or afternoon teas and more.
Waurn Ponds Estate can host a maximum of 100 guests seated in our Barrabool event space, or up to 300 guests for a cocktail event in the Lounge or on the Lawn.
Find out more about our catering and event options here.
What technology is available at the Estate?
Waurn Ponds Estate’s eight conference spaces are technology-rich for a seamless user experience.
Our AV equipment features one-touch operation, allowing you full access from your own laptop.
The Estate’s conference rooms also have an extra large projector screen, a lectern with microphone as well as handheld, lapel and table microphones.
The spaces include built in cameras both at the front and rear of the rooms for ease of Zoom meetings, and we have recording capabilities and hearing loop devices available.
Find out more about our conference technology here.
Do you have a restaurant and bar at the Estate?
The Estate does not have a traditional restaurant or bar.
Breakfast is an optional addition to accommodation bookings at Waurn Ponds Estate and is served in our Barrabool event space from 7.30am - 9am on weekdays and 7.30am - 10am on weekends. Breakfast is served to Estate guests only.
We serve an Express Bistro menu for lunch and dinner, Monday - Friday from 11am till 7pm. A full beverage menu is also available to order. This is served in our Barrabool space, our Bistro or our Pool Terrace, depending on availability. Our friendly team will advise you where to go on arrival. Our Express Bistro menu is available to anyone who would like to join us.
The bar in our Bistro is open on request for conference and event bookings only.
We also welcome you to our sister cafe and bar in Geelong, Waterfront Pantry.
