Hospitality and Tourism

Ever wondered who makes holidays awesome, events unforgettable, and food taste that good? That’s the Hospitality and Tourism industry, covering everything from hotels and cafes to retail, arts, and adventure activities.

This industry is buzzing with energy, supporting over 33,500 jobs and pumping $1.5 billion into the local economy. And guess what? You don’t need to wait until you finish school to get started, there are heaps of entry-level jobs that can kick off your career right now.

Come check out the cool venues around Geelong and the Bellarine, grab some tasty snacks, and meet the legends who work behind the scenes. You’ll hear real stories, get tips on landing your first job, and find out how you can grow into leadership roles.

Whether you’re into food, fashion, festivals, or fun, there’s a place for you in Hospitality and Tourism. So dive in, explore the pathways, and discover a career that’s anything but boring.

2026 Program Dates

This program is run over three days.

Day 1: Tuesday August 18th
Day 2: Tuesday August 25th
Day 3: Monday August 31st

Participant Requirements

• Students must be in years 9, 10, or 11 to apply.
• Students must first get permission from both their Parent/Guardian and their school Careers Teacher before applying.
• Students must commit to attending all days of the program.

Important Information

• There is a limited number of places available, and early registrations will take priority.
• Students will need to make their own transport arrangements to and from The Gordon each day. We will organise transportation to and from the industry visits.
• Each day will start at 9am and finish at 3pm.
• Skilling the Bay will take on the duty-of-care of all participants during the program.

Application Form

Please complete the form below to apply for this program. We’ll be in touch in late March 2026 to confirm your place.

"*" indicates required fields

Student Details

Name*

First Last

Preferred Name

Preferred Pronouns

Date of Birth*

Day

Month

Year

Email*

Mobile Number*

Address*

Street Address City State / Province / Region ZIP / Postal Code

Year Level*

Click to selectYear 9Year 10Year 11

School*

Click to selectArmstrong CreekBarwon Valley SchoolBellarine Secondary CollegeBelmont High SchoolChristian CollegeClonard CollegeCovenant CollegeGeelong Baptist CollegeGeelong Grammar SchoolGeelong High SchoolGeelong Lutheran CollegeGrovedale CollegeGordon VCEHamlyn Views SchoolIona College GeelongIndie SchoolKardinia International CollegeLara Secondary CollegeMatthew Flinders Girls Secondary CollegeMacKillop Family ServicesNelson ParkNewcomb Secondary CollegeNorth Geelong Secondary CollegeNorthern Bay P-12 CollegeOberon High SchoolSacred Heart CollegeSaint Ignatius College GeelongSaints CollegeSEDA College VictoriaSt Joseph’s College GeelongSurf Coast Secondary CollegeThe Geelong CollegeWestern Heights Secondary College

Are you of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander origin?*

Click to selectYesNo

Does your family speak a language other than English at home?*

Click to selectYesNo

Do you have a disability or medical condition that we need to be aware of in order to maximise your health and wellbeing during the program?*

Click to selectYesNo

Please provide details*

Do you have any dietary requirements?*

Career Teacher Details

Careers Teacher Full Name*

First Last

Careers Teacher Email*

Teacher Awareness*

I have spoken with my Careers Teacher (named above) and they have given me permission to apply for this program.

I have received permission from my school to apply.

Program Details

Why would you like to participate in this program?*

Student Agreement*

If I am successful in gaining a place in the program, I will participate to the best of my ability in all activities.

I agree

Student Signature*

Parent/Guardian Details

Parent/Guardian Full Name*

First Last

Parent/Guardian Mobile*

Parent/Guardian Email*

Alternate emergency contact*

First Last

Alternate emergency contact Mobile*

Media Consent

I give Skilling the Bay and the Geelong Tech School permission to photograph and/or interview my child for use in a range of print, electronic and other media for communication and promotional purposes.

I agree

Program Permission*

I give permission for my child to attend the WOW Hospitality & Tourism Program on the 18th, 25th & 31st of August 2026. I understand that my child will adhere to the dress code, and behave in alignment with their school's code of conduct. I commit to organise transportation to and from The Gordon for my student at the beginning and the conclusion of each program day. I agree to meet any medical expenses and/or transport costs incurred in the event of sickness or injury. In the event of an emergency, I agree to the designated supervising teacher seeking medical attention for my child. I agree to meet any transport costs should my child be sent home as a result of misbehaviour or inappropriate conduct. I authorise The Gordon to contact my child via email and/or phone regarding ongoing program information, or in the event of a cancellation.

I agree

Parent/Guardian Signature*

Privacy Statement
Skilling the Bay is a joint partnership between the Victorian Government, The Gordon and Deakin University. Skilling the Bay provides students in Years 9, 10 and 11 with an opportunity to participate in the World of Work programs. The program aims to increase knowledge of career opportunities for young people in the Geelong region. For administration purposes we need to collect your name, address, phone number(s), gender, date of birth, emergency contact details and school so that we know who you are and how to contact you. Information supplied in this Application Form will be entered into a computer database managed by Skilling the Bay. The information will not be provided in identifiable form to any other person or organisation without the consent of the individual student or guardian unless required by law or other regulation to do so. It is important that this information is accurate and up to date. If you think that any information requires correction or updating following submission, please contact: skillingthebay@gordontafe.edu.au

Skilling the Bay programs are supported by the Victorian Government.