The opening of Stage One at Westfield Geelong took place today. This not only saw 25 specialty stores and Coles open their doors, but was also the first day of trading with the official centre name changed from Westfield Bay City to Westfield Geelong. Additionally it was the 20th birthday of the centre, which is presently undergoing a $200 million redevelopment. What a lovely birthday present!

The new specialty stores to open include fashion brands Diana Ferrari, Joanne Mercer, RM Williams and Bardot. New food retailers include The Coffee Club, Muffin Break and Yarra Valley Farms. The brand new Telstra concept store will also be opening in Geelong and this will be a first for shopping centres  in Australia.

The stage one launch was officially opened by Centre Manager, Annette Cotter, as well as one of Westfield Geelong's longest serving patrons, now in his 80s who was invited to assist cut the cake and celebrate with all the Westfield Geelong team and customers.

Some fun facts about the development upon it's completion in July 2008? Store numbers will increase from 67 stores to 143 stores, retail space will increase from 35,000 square metres to 51,000 square metres and car park spaces increase from 1,121 to 1,700 (all these figures are approximate).

Wishing Westfield Geelong a very happy birthday and hope all had a wonderful time on this special day.