Exploring Avalon Airport: Activities And Attractions

what to do in avalon airport

Avalon Airport is an airport located on the land of the indigenous Wathaurong people. It is served by passenger airline Jetstar, which operates domestic flights, and is the site of the biennial Australian International Airshow. The airport has a variety of options for layovers, including the Geelong waterfront, which offers great views across Port Phillip and the famous coloured bollards and sea baths. The Queen Victoria Markets, NGV gallery, and Chinatown are also nearby. The airport itself has great facilities, including easy parking, fewer crowds and queues, and work benches with power outlets and USB ports.

Characteristics Values
Location Geelong, Melbourne
Airlines Jetstar, Air Asia
Facilities Easy parking, cafes, work benches with power outlets and USB ports, galleries, shops
Nearby attractions Geelong waterfront, Queen Victoria Markets, Chinatown, Yarra River, NGV gallery
Airport size 4,500 square metres, 8 aircraft parking bays
Runway Single runway and a helipad
Events Biennial Australian International Airshow

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Explore Geelong Waterfront's views, coloured bollards, sea baths, bars and restaurants

If you're looking for things to do near Avalon Airport, Geelong Waterfront is only 25 minutes away. Stroll along the waterfront and take in the views across Port Phillip to the Mornington Peninsula and beyond. The waterfront is rarely crowded and often protected from the wind, making it a pleasant walk. Keep an eye out for the famous coloured bollards and sea baths, and if you're feeling hungry or thirsty, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from.

For accommodation, the Waterfront Apartments in Geelong CBD offer a range of luxury one and two-bedroom apartments with quality fixtures and fittings. The apartments are centrally located on Eastern Beach Geelong and include access to the adjoining Four Points Sheraton Hotel's indoor heated pool, gym, and steam room.

If you're looking for a place to eat and drink, Edge Geelong Bar & Restaurant is located right on the Geelong Waterfront. They offer handcrafted cocktails, local wines, a large beer selection, and all-day dining seven days a week. You can also enjoy live local music from Friday to Sunday, with acoustic sessions and DJ sets creating a vibrant atmosphere.

On your way into the city from Avalon Airport, you'll pass the famous open-air Queen Victoria Markets, a great spot to grab a bite to eat. You can also head to the CBD to explore galleries such as Victoria's largest, the NGV, just across the Yarra River. Chinatown is another great dining option, offering dumplings and noodles to satisfy your cravings.

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Visit the Queen Victoria Markets, galleries, shops, and Chinatown

Avalon Airport is a great place to explore during a layover, with options for those who want to get out and see new things and those who prefer to stay and enjoy the airport amenities. If you're looking to venture out, the famous open-air Queen Victoria Markets are on the way into the city from Avalon. This vibrant market offers a variety of food options and is the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat before exploring the rest of the city.

After satisfying your hunger, you can walk off your meal by heading into the CBD to explore the galleries and shops. Victoria's largest gallery, the NGV, is just across the Yarra River and is definitely worth a visit. Get your fix of art and culture before wandering through the city's shops to treat yourself to some retail therapy.

For those with a craving for dumplings or noodles, Chinatown is also nearby. Indulge in some delicious Asian cuisine before catching the bus back to the airport. If you have a sweet tooth, you can also grab a juicy burger made with free-range, grass-fed beef from Provenir Meat, or enjoy a refreshing beverage from Great Ocean Road Brewing.

With a variety of transport options, including buses, taxis, and ride-sharing services, getting to and from Avalon Airport and the city is convenient. Remember to allow enough time to travel to and from the airport and to check in for your next flight. So, whether you're an adventurer or a lay-arounder, Avalon Airport and its surrounding attractions have something to offer everyone.

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Experience the Australian International Airshow, held biennially since 1992

Avalon Airport, located near Geelong, is the site of the Australian International Airshow, which has been held biennially at the venue since 1992. The airshow features a wide range of aircraft and exhibitors from the international aerospace industry, as well as government, military, scientific, and trade delegates. The event typically attracts a large number of attendees, with over 195,000 people attending the six-day event in 2011.

The Australian International Airshow has a long history, with the first major airshow in Australia taking place in Sydney in 1988 to celebrate the Australian Bicentenary. This was followed by another airshow in 1991 to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Royal Australian Air Force. In 1992, the airshow was moved to Avalon Airport, and despite some initial financial difficulties due to poor weather, the event has continued to be held at this location.

The airshow features a variety of aircraft, including military aircraft, bombers, fighters, surveillance aircraft, and advanced stealth fighters. In addition to the aircraft displays, the airshow also includes other attractions such as laser shows, flare drops, and aerobatic performances by military jets and gliders. The 2009 edition of the airshow, themed "Towards Tomorrow", featured Australian-born astronaut Andy Thomas as the guest of honour and commemorated the 40th anniversary of the first moon landing.

If you're visiting Avalon Airport and are interested in experiencing the Australian International Airshow, it's important to plan your trip accordingly. The airshow typically takes place during October, and you can expect a variety of exhibits and performances showcasing the latest in aerospace technology and military hardware. With its rich history and impressive displays, the Australian International Airshow is a unique event that combines entertainment and innovation, offering a memorable experience for aviation enthusiasts and the general public alike.

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Discover the history of the airport, originally a sheep and cattle farm founded by an English immigrant

Avalon Airport has a rich history that dates back to the mid-20th century. The land on which the airport sits was originally owned by the Wathaurong people, the indigenous owners of the land. In 1952, the Commonwealth Government purchased 1,754 hectares or 4,333 acres of this land from the Austin family of Winchelsea, who are known for introducing rabbits to Australia. The land was bought for just 110 pounds, as it was deemed to be of poor quality for farming due to the abundance of volcanic rock.

Before it became an airport, Avalon was a sheep and cattle farm and homestead, founded by James Austin, an English immigrant from Glastonbury, Somerset, England. Enchanted by the legends of King Arthur, James named his homestead "Avalon" after the mythical island at Glastonbury, where King Arthur's sword was forged and where he was brought after his final battle.

The airport was opened in 1953 to cater to the production of military aircraft. The Government Aircraft Factories, which later became the Aerospace Technologies of Australia (ASTA), used the site for building and servicing military jets, including Mirage fighters, Nomad and Hornet jets, and the GAF Jindivik remotely piloted aircraft. The site was also used for servicing large aircraft, such as the Boeing 747, and in 1993, 50 of these planes had passed through the Avalon facility.

In 1997, the federal government of Australia leased the airport to Linfox, who developed the land and expanded the airport's operations. Linfox has invested heavily in upgrading the airport's facilities and infrastructure. Today, Avalon Airport offers domestic and international flights and is known for its easy parking, fewer crowds, and efficient service. The airport has also become a major employment hub, with around 1,300 people employed full-time and hundreds more in supporting industries.

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Check out the work benches with power outlets and USB ports, and enjoy a coffee at Skylounge Cafe

Avalon Airport is a great place to relax and unwind while waiting for your flight. The airport offers a range of amenities to keep you comfortable and entertained during your layover. One notable feature is the availability of work benches with power outlets and USB ports, providing a convenient space for you to catch up on work or simply recharge your devices. The work benches are strategically located within the airport, offering easy access for all travellers.

While you're there, don't forget to indulge in a cup of locally brewed coffee at the Skylounge Cafe. The cafe is known for its delicious coffee, offering a perfect boost to energize you before your flight or during a layover. Whether you prefer a classic espresso or a creamy latte, the baristas at Skylounge Cafe will craft your coffee just right. In addition to their coffee, the cafe also offers a variety of refreshments and light bites to satisfy your cravings.

The combination of work benches and the Skylounge Cafe creates an ideal environment for travellers who need to stay connected and energized. You can set up your laptop at one of the work benches, plug in your devices, and enjoy a fresh cup of coffee while you work or browse the internet. The airport's thoughtful provision of power outlets and USB ports ensures that you can stay productive and connected to the digital world during your time at Avalon Airport.

Whether you're a business traveller catching up on last-minute emails or a leisure traveller looking to pass the time, the work benches and Skylounge Cafe at Avalon Airport provide the perfect blend of functionality and relaxation. So, the next time you find yourself at Avalon Airport, be sure to take advantage of these convenient amenities and make the most of your time before embarking on your next adventure.

Frequently asked questions

Avalon Airport is located near Geelong and Melbourne, which are accessible via the adjacent Princes Freeway. Geelong waterfront, located 25 minutes away, offers great views across Port Phillip to the Mornington Peninsula and beyond. Geelong City Council has also proposed building a theme park at Avalon. In Melbourne, you can visit the Queen Victoria Markets, the CBD, and Chinatown.

Avalon Airport offers easy parking, fewer crowds and queues, and great facilities. The airport houses four gates capable of servicing aircraft up to and including the size of the Airbus A321. It also has a helipad and six hangars, including three Boeing 747 hangars. The airport is equipped with work benches that have power outlets and USB ports, allowing you to work or relax during layovers.

Avalon Airport is the site of the biennial Australian International Airshow, which has been held since 1992 and attracts over 195,000 attendees. The airport also facilitates notable freight operations, including the Australian Grand Prix, Supercars, Superbikes, and specialist charters for livestock, race horses, fresh produce, military hardware, and touring rock bands.

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