Geelong is preparing to celebrate a major milestone in its manufacturing history, with the City announcing a series of free community events to mark the centenary of Ford Australia.
The events, titled “100 Years of Ford in Geelong: The Cars, The People & The Local Legacy,” will be held at the National Wool Museum on Saturday 24 May and Sunday 25 May from 1pm to 3pm.
Attendees will be treated to a short screening of archival footage, followed by a panel discussion exploring Ford’s influence on Geelong’s industrial and community life. A small archival display will also be available for viewing, providing a tangible link to the city’s automotive past.
Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM said Ford’s centenary was an opportunity to reflect on a legacy that helped shape the region’s identity.
“The community is proud to be part of Australian automotive history,” Mayor Kontelj said. “The Ford factory in Geelong and then Norlane formed a significant part of our region’s identity and put Geelong on the map as a manufacturing hub with a skilled workforce, something that remains true today.”
Ford Australia’s history in Geelong began in 1925 when the company set up operations at the Dalgety Wool Store, later moving to a larger site in Norlane.
Geelong was chosen for its strategic access to port and railway infrastructure, along with available land and a capable workforce.
The first Australian-assembled Model T rolled off the local assembly line in the same year, and in 1934, the factory became the birthplace of the iconic ‘ute,’ designed by Lew Bandt.
Over the decades, Ford’s Geelong operations produced many well-known models including the Falcon, Fairlane, and Territory, and during World War Two, adapted to build military vehicles.
The plant also became a symbol of resilience, with women stepping into manufacturing roles as men enlisted for service. In 2016, the last Australian-made straight-six and V8 engines were manufactured in Geelong, marking the end of a production era.
Councillor Eddy Kontelj said the centenary events would offer the community a meaningful way to connect with Ford’s enduring legacy.
“Council is excited to celebrate 100 years of Ford Australia in Geelong,” he said. “If you or a family member worked at the Ford factory and the dealerships that maintained the vehicles, or you’re a car or history nut, or just want to learn more about Geelong’s manufacturing heritage, we invite you to get your ticket to 100 Years of Ford in Geelong.”
While Ford no longer manufactures vehicles in Norlane, the site remains an important part of the company’s future as a Research and Development Centre.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, it also served the community as a state vaccination hub. Ford continues to operate its 900-hectare You Yangs Proving Ground at Lara, further maintaining its strong ties to the Geelong region.
Ford Australia is also celebrating 100 years of partnership with the Geelong Football Club, a collaboration that is considered the longest-running sponsorship in professional sport worldwide.
Councillor Eddy Kontelj added that the events would offer more than just nostalgia. “This is a chance for you to take a deep dive into old photos, interviews and interesting history that reflect our region’s proud manufacturing roots and contributed to the city’s UNESCO Creative City of Design designation,” he said.
While admission to the centenary events is free, ticket numbers are limited and must be secured in advance.
