Vision 2 Event – workshop 2

Research background: Vision 2 develops and tests a collaborative model with a diverse level of stakeholders towards a new vision for the revitalization of central Geelong. The second major initiative Workshop 2 extended the level of collaboration through further diversifying the stakeholders and generating discussion, informed debate and further development. Workshop 2 generated a new level of engagement building on the four Key Scenarios developed from the earlier workshop and subsequent engagement process as its platform. Amongst the 79 participants, some members from the first Design Workshop joined a variety of stakeholders and community leaders.

Research contribution: Workshop 2 focussed on the four Key Scenario established by a Venn matrix assessment through a new diverse group. Small cross-discipline teams adopted each scenario and assessed its narrative location, stakeholder targeting, phasing and visualisation. Aspects of impact, opportunity, facilitation, and integration were brought forward to consolidate the diverse response and progress each scenario. The wide scope approach enabled the process towards the renewal vision and strategy. Invited guest, Prof Richard Sommer, guided the concluding discussion and response to assist with positive development on each Key Scenario.

Research significance: Outcomes of Workshop 2 were further tested in engagement through key stakeholder forums (local and state planners, VicRoads, Barwon Health, Barwon Water, Geelong Otway Tourism, GPAC and the Geelong Library). Additional dialogue was maintained through the ongoing public exhibition (Vision 2 Gallery), social media, and the media (Geelong Advertiser). All of these activities helped form a significant research outcome - the Vision 2 Design Studio Report. The report was presented to key individuals from the City of Greater Geelong, Chamber of Commerce, State MPs and Federal MPs, with Victorian Premier, Denis Napthine championing the project at a public event in March 2013