Find Geelong - March 2025 Edition by Find

COLUMNIST CONTRIBUTORS COLUMNIST

About the Find Geelong

By Warren Strybosch

The Find Geelong is a community paper that aims to support all things Geelong. We want to provide a place where all NotFor-Profits (NFP), schools, sporting groups and other like organisations can share their news in one place. For instance, submitting up-and-coming events in the Find Geelong for Free.

We do not proclaim to be another newspaper and we will not be aiming to compete with other news outlets. You can obtain your news from other sources. We feel you get enough of this already. We will keep our news topics to a minimum and only provide what we feel is most relevant topics to you each month.

We invite local council and the current council members to participate by submitting information each month so as to keep us informed of any changes that may be of relevance to us, their local constituents.

EDITORIAL ENQUIRES:

Warren Strybosch | 1300 88 38 30 editor@findgeelong.com.au

PUBLISHER: Issuu pty Ltd

POSTAL ADDRESS: 248 Wonga Road, Wararnwood VIC 3134

ADVERTISING AND ACCOUNTS: editor@findgeelong.com.au

GENERAL ENQUIRIES: 1300 88 38 30

EMAIL SPORT: editor@findgeelong.com.au

WEBSITE: www.findgeelong.com.au

OUR NEWSPAPER

We will also try and showcase different organisations throughout the year so you, the reader, can learn more about what is on offer in your local area.

To help support the paper, we invite local businesses owners to sponsor the paper and in return we will provide exclusive advertising and opportunities to submit articles about their businesses. As a community we encourage you to support these businesses/columnists. Without their support, we would not be able to provide this community paper to you.

Lastly, we want to ask you, the local community, to support the fundraising initiatives that we will be developing and

The

rolling out over the coming years. Our aim is to help as many NFP and other like organisations to raise much needed funds to help them to keep operating. Our fundraising initiatives will never simply ask for money from you. We will also aim to provide something of worth to you before you part with your hardearned money. The first initiative is the Find Cards and Find Coupons – similar to the Entertainment Book but cheaper and more localised. Any NFP and similar organisations e.g., schools, sporting clubs, can participate.

We value your support,

The Find Geelong Team.

Geelong

ALL THINGS GEELONG

The City of Geelong is one of Victoria’s largest regional capital cities. Geelong had a population of approximately 230,000 as at the 2019 Report which includes 16,000 businesses. Geelong’s location is in strong growth corridor, making it an ideal location for businesses to explore options outside of the capital city.

The Find Geelong acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands where Geelong now stands, the Wadawuarrung people of the Kulin nation, and pays repect to their Elders - past, present and emerging - and acknowledges the important role Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people continue to play within our community.

The Find Geelong was established in 2019 and is owned by the Find Foundation, a Not-For-Profit organisation with is core focus of helping other Not-For-Profits, schools, clubs and other similar organisations in the local community - to bring everyone together in one place and to support each other. We provide the above organisations FREE advertising in the community paper to promote themselves as well as to make the community more aware of the services these organisations can offer. The Find Geelong has a strong editorial focus and is supported via local grants and financed predominantly by local business owners.

DISCLAIMER

Readers are advised that the Find Geelong accepts no responsibility for financial, health or other claims published in advertising or in articles written in this newspaper. All comments are of a general nature and do not take into account your personal financial situation, health and/or wellbeing. We recommend you seek professional advice before

Start of the AFL Season: The battle begins! AFL 2025 is here! New season, same passion! The Geelong Cats are back and ready to pounce, let’s make this season unforgettable and go get that 11th Premiership!!

by Genevieve Brazil

The Geelong Cats are gearing up for the 2025 AFL season with a blend of seasoned veterans and promising newcomers. Their pre-season preparations have been marked by strategic acquisitions and a focus on refining their game plan.

Geelong enters the 2025 season with a balanced roster, combining experienced leaders with emerging talents. The addition of Bailey Smith is anticipated to enhance the team’s midfield strength, while the departures of Tuohy, Rohan, and Parfitt may open opportunities for younger players to step up. The Cats’ strategic moves during the off-season reflect a commitment to both immediate competitiveness and longterm success.

The 2025 AFL season will begin on Thursday, March 6 with a blockbuster match-up between the Geelong Cats and the Brisbane Lions at the Gabba.

In a significant scheduling update, the AFL has announced a record 23 Thursday night games for the 2025 season, a move driven by strong demand from fans and broadcasters. These matches will be spread across various venues nationwide, including the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Marvel Stadium, The Gabba, Perth Stadium, Adelaide Oval, GMHBA Stadium in Geelong, and TIO Stadium in Darwin.

For Victorian teams, the season’s fixture offers both challenges and advantages. Carlton and Hawthorn are among the big winners, with Carlton facing only two finalists twice across the 24-round campaign, and Hawthorn securing seven Thursday or Friday night timeslots over the first 16 rounds. Conversely, Collingwood faces a demanding start, playing against seven finalists from the previous season in its opening eight games.

The Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) has released its schedule for the 2025 AFL Premiership Season at the MCG, detailing match dates and ticketing information for Rounds 1 to 15. Members and fans are encouraged to check the MCC’s official website for updates and on-sale dates.

The 2025 Smithy’s Victorian Football League (VFL) season is set to commence on the weekend of March 22-23, 2025, featuring 21 teams from Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland. The season will conclude with the Grand Final on Sunday, September 21, 2025, aligning with the weekend before the AFL Grand Final.3

The rebel VFLW competition will commence on the weekend of April 19-20, with the season running through August, providing greater alignment with the NAB AFLW competition. The Grand Final is to be held on the weekend of August 30-31.

These developments highlight the AFL’s commitment to enhancing the fan experience through strategic scheduling and expanded broadcast coverage, ensuring supporters have ample opportunities to engage with the sport throughout the 2025 season.

Geelong Column

Several initiatives across Greater Geelong are helping residents recycle and dispose of waste more efficiently, ultimately ensuring ratepayer funds can be better spent.

New residents and summer tourist hotspots will be the next focus of a recycling education drive that has already reduced contamination in our yellow bins by 200 tonnes a year.

Supported by Sustainability Victoria’s Small Acts Big Impact campaign, this education drive includes letters, advertisements and free resources to help residents avoid contamination.

The program is now focussing on newly built estates and tourist havens on the Bellarine, which are two of the highest sources of contamination in our municipality.

Recycling contamination can be incredibly expensive for ratepayers, as it requires additional sorting, transportation and landfill fees to be disposed of properly.

Avoiding contamination in your bin saves Council money and resources, which can be directed toward improving other waste services that we provide.

And Geelong residents have certainly shown an eagerness to correctly and safely dispose of their waste, based on a recent Detox Your Home event in Corio.

This event, supported by Sustainability Victoria, allowed residents to get rid of unwanted household chemicals, which can be harmful to the environment and dangerous in waste facilities, if incorrectly disposed.

This program was booked out, but community members can still join a waitlist for any future events.

A list of upcoming events is available at sustainability.vic.gov.au/detoxyourhome.

And, of course, I encourage residents to take advantage of our hard rubbish service.

The service is available to all occupied residential properties in our municipality and residents can book two collections per financial year.

Whitegoods, metal appliances, furniture, timber, ceramics, empty paint tins, mirrors, fabric, metal and electronics can all be collected through this service.

Residents can also book two mattress collections per financial year.

For more information visit:

geelong.link/recycleright and geelongaustralia.com.au/hardwaste

By City of Greater Geelong Mayor

Why Having a Budget is Important When Setting Up a Financial Plan

FINANCIAL PLANNER

By Warren Strybosch

When it comes to managing your finances and achieving long-term financial goals, having a clear financial plan is essential. However, creating a financial plan without a budget is like trying to navigate a new city without a map—you may get somewhere, but it will be far harder to reach your destination and more likely that you’ll get lost along the way. A budget is the foundation of any successful financial plan because it helps you manage your income, control your spending, and prioritise savings and investments.

In this article, we’ll explore why having a budget is so important when setting up a financial plan and how it can help you achieve your financial goals.

1. Provides a Clear Picture of Your Finances

A budget helps you understand exactly where your money is going each month. By tracking your income, expenses, and savings, you get a clear overview of your financial situation. This visibility is essential for making informed decisions about your spending and savings. Without a budget, it’s easy to overspend or mismanage funds, as you might not be fully aware of how much money is coming in and how much is going out.

With a budget, you can see:

• Your income: How much money you earn after taxes and other deductions.

• Fixed and variable expenses: How much you spend on essentials like rent, utilities, groceries, and discretionary items like entertainment.

• Your savings rate: How much money you’re setting aside for future goals or emergency funds.

2. Helps Control Spending

A budget is a powerful tool for curbing impulse purchases and unnecessary spending. When you allocate a specific amount for different categories of your budget (such as groceries, entertainment, and transportation), you make conscious decisions about where to spend. This helps prevent overspending and ensures that your money is being directed toward the things that matter most.

By setting limits for various expense categories, you can:

• Avoid spending beyond your means.

• Keep track of your discretionary spending to ensure it doesn’t exceed your planned budget.

• Identify areas where you may be able to cut back and reallocate funds toward savings or investment goals.

3. Enables You to Prioritise Financial Goals

Having a budget is essential for setting and achieving financial goals, whether short-term (like paying off debt or saving for a vacation) or long-term (like buying a home or retirement). A budget allows you to prioritise your financial goals by directing your money toward these objectives.

For instance, if your goal is to save for an emergency fund, you can allocate a portion of your income to this fund each month. Similarly, if you’re working toward paying off high-interest debt, a budget will help you plan your debt repayments, ensuring you stay on track. A budget gives you a clear framework for how to achieve your goals and ensures you’re not sacrificing one priority for another.

4. Improves Debt Management

If you’re carrying debt, having a budget is essential for managing and paying it off efficiently. A budget helps you allocate a portion of your income specifically for debt repayments, ensuring that you avoid missing payments and accruing late fees. Additionally, it can help you determine the most efficient strategy for paying off debt, such as the debt avalanche method (paying off highinterest debt first) or the debt snowball method (paying off smaller debts first for quick wins).

By tracking your debt and repayment progress, you can:

• Stay on top of due dates and avoid penalties.

• Make informed decisions about how to allocate extra funds toward paying down debt faster.

• Create a clear path for becoming debt-free.

5. Helps Save for Emergencies and Future Needs

One of the most important aspects of any financial plan is building a safety net for emergencies, such as unexpected medical bills, car repairs, or job loss. A

budget helps you allocate a portion of your income toward building an emergency fund, ensuring that you’re prepared for unforeseen circumstances without relying on credit cards or loans.

In addition to emergencies, a budget also allows you to plan for future needs like retirement, education expenses, or major life events. By identifying areas where you can cut back on non-essential spending, you can increase the amount you set aside for long-term goals.

6. Offers Better Control Over Taxes

When you create a budget, you’ll have a clearer picture of your total income, which can help you estimate your tax liabilities. This knowledge is essential for effective tax planning. By allocating money for taxes and tracking tax deductions or credits, you can avoid surprises at tax time. A budget also helps ensure that you’re saving for tax obligations if you’re selfemployed or if your income is variable.

By monitoring your tax situation, you can:

• Set aside enough money to pay taxes throughout the year.

• Adjust your withholding or quarterly payments if needed.

• Ensure that you’re taking advantage of potential tax-saving strategies, like contributing to tax-advantaged retirement accounts.

7. Helps Track Progress and Stay on Course

A budget isn’t a one-time task—it’s a living document that needs to be regularly updated and reviewed. Having a budget

helps you track your progress toward financial goals and ensures that you’re staying on course. By reviewing your budget monthly or quarterly, you can assess whether you’re meeting your savings targets, sticking to spending limits, and making progress in debt repayment.

Regularly monitoring your budget also allows you to make adjustments if needed. If you’re overspending in one category or your income changes, you can modify your budget to reflect those changes and stay aligned with your financial goals.

8. Encourages Financial Discipline and Responsibility

A budget instils discipline and encourages a responsible approach to money management. It forces you to take an honest look at your financial situation and make intentional decisions about how you spend and save. Financial discipline is key to achieving long-term financial security and having a budget helps develop the habits necessary to build wealth over time.

A budget is the cornerstone of any sound financial plan. It helps you understand your financial situation, control your spending, prioritise your goals, and prepare for the future. By creating and sticking to a budget, you ensure that your money is working for you and that you’re on track to achieve both your short-term and long-term financial goals. Whether you’re saving for an emergency fund, paying down debt, or planning for retirement, a budget is the tool that makes all of it possible.

Warren Strybosch

1300 88 38 30 |warren@findwealth.com.au www.findwealth.com.au

Warren Strybosch Award winning Financial Adviser and Accountant

Financial Planning is offered via Find Wealth Pty Ltd ACN 140 585 075 t/a Find Wealth & Find Retirement.

FindWealthisaCorporateAuthorisedRepresentative (No 468091) of Alliance Wealth Pty Ltd ABN 93 161 647 007 (AFSL No. 449221).Part of the Centrepoint Alliancegroup https://www.centrepointalliance. com.au/

Warren Strybosch is Authorised representative (No. 468091) of Alliance Wealth Pty Ltd. Services offered are superannuation, retirement planning and aged care advice.

This information has been provided as general advice. We have not considered your financial circumstances, needs or objectives. You should consider the appropriateness of the advice. You should obtain and consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and seek the assistance of an authorised financial adviser before making any decision regarding any products or strategies mentioned in this communication.

Whilst all care has been taken in the preparation of this material, it is based on our understanding of current regulatory requirements and laws at the publication date.As these laws are subject to change you should talk to an authorised adviser for the most up-to-date information. No warranty is given in respect of the information provided and accordingly neither Alliance Wealth nor its related entities, employees or representatives accepts responsibility for any loss suffered by any person arising from reliance on this information.

The Silent Crisis of Leadership Fatigue -

And how to fix it

LEADERSHIP ALIGNMENT & PERFORMANCE CONSULTANT

By Sally Higoe

Leadership fatigue isn’t always obvious. It doesn’t hit like a sudden burnout or a dramatic collapse. Instead, it creeps in quietly, hidden behind full calendars, constant meetings, and the endless pressure to perform. For leaders, especially those navigating high-stakes roles, this silent crisis can feel like part of the job—but it doesn’t have to be.

What Does Leadership Fatigue Look Like?

Leadership fatigue shows up in subtle but draining ways:

• Chronic exhaustion, even after rest.

• Decision fatigue, where simple choices feel overwhelming.

• Emotional detachment from your team, your purpose, and even yourself.

• Second-guessing decisions you used to make with ease.

You might find yourself firefighting all day, reacting to problems instead of leading with vision. Or feeling disconnected at home because your mind can’t switch off from work.

Why It Happens

The root cause? Reactive leadership

When you’re constantly putting out fires, your brain stays in survival mode. Instead of thinking strategically, you’re stuck in a cycle of stress and overthinking. Add to that the pressure to always be “on,” and it’s no wonder leaders feel drained.

We’ve been sold the idea that “balance” is the goal. But leadership isn’t about perfect balance. Life is unpredictable. Leadership is messy. The real goal is managing your energy and leading with clarity despite the chaos. I call this aiming for FLOW

How to Fix It

1. Shift from Time Management to Energy Management - Stop trying to divide your day into perfect time blocks. Instead, focus on what fuels you and what drains you. Protect your energy like it’s your most valuable resource—because it is.

2. Pause Before You ReactLeadership isn’t about having all the answers instantly. When faced with a challenge, take a beat. Reflect. Even 30 seconds can shift you from reactive to intentional thinking.

3. Reconnect with Your ‘Why’ - Fatigue thrives in disconnection. Remind yourself why you do what you do. Purpose is a powerful energy source.

4. Build Boundaries That Actually Stick - Protect time for deep work, reflection, and, yes, rest. Saying “no” isn’t a weakness—it’s a leadership skill.

5. Get Support - You don’t have to do it alone. Whether it’s a coach, mentor, or trusted peer, having someone to challenge your thinking and offer perspective is gamechanging.

The Bottom Line

Leadership fatigue is real, but it’s not inevitable. You don’t have to accept overwhelm as the cost of success. The shift isn’t about working harder; it’s about leading differently.

Take Action

Send me an email, and answer me this: What’s one leadership habit that drains you the most?

Let’s start a real conversation about leading with less burnout and more clarity. Reach out here: sally@team-resilience.com.au

The 5C’s to success

BUSINESS COACH

By Deb Fribbins

The retail scene today is challenging to state the obvious. But isn’t that half the fun. How do we make a difficult situation, fun. Bring your creative juices to the for and utilise the 5 C’s.

Understanding your customer’s needs and servicing these needs is not that difficult Absolutely, let’s infuse some creativity and strategic thinking into the challenging retail landscape using the 5 C’s framework.

3. Competition: Rather than viewing competition as a threat, let’s see it as an opportunity for growth. We can analyze our competitors to identify gaps in the market and areas where we can excel. For instance, if there’s a lack of affordable, stylish sustainable fashion options, we can position ourselves as the go-to destination for eco-friendly yet trendy apparel.

4. Collaborations: Collaboration is key in today’s retail landscape. Let’s partner with like-minded brands, NGOs, and influencers who share our values and can help amplify our message. For example, we could collaborate with a local environmental organization to cohost events or partner with ecoconscious celebrities to promote our products on social media.

Clearly identify your consumer. Who are they? What are your core products for them? What are the demographics for your store?

If you and your staff are passionate about what you do and have a good understanding of your customers needs and wants you are well on your way to success.

1. Consumer: Firstly, we need to deeply understand our consumers. Who are they? What are their needs, desires, and pain points? Let’s say our target consumers are eco-conscious millennials who prioritize sustainability. Our core products for them could be ethically sourced clothing, zero-waste lifestyle products, and eco-friendly home goods. The demographics for our store would likely skew towards younger adults aged 25-40, urban dwellers, with higher education and disposable income.

2. Creativity: Now, let’s leverage creativity to differentiate ourselves in the market. Instead of just selling products, let’s create an immersive, experiential retail environment. We could host workshops on sustainable living, collaborate with local artists for installations, and offer interactive displays showcasing the stories behind our products’ origins and manufacturing processes. This not only engages customers but also aligns with their values, making shopping with us an enriching experience.

5. Campaigns: Finally, let’s craft compelling campaigns that resonate with our target audience on an emotional level. Building on Simon Sinek’s quote, let’s focus on the “why” behind our brand. Our campaigns could highlight the impact of conscious consumerism on the planet, showcasing real stories of how our products contribute to positive change. By tapping into emotions and values, we can forge deeper connections with our customers and inspire loyalty beyond just transactions.

By integrating these strategies and staying true to our purpose, we can not only navigate the challenges of the retail landscape but also turn them into opportunities for growth and innovation.

If you would like support to address this in your business book a time for a complimentary Appointment With Purpose (A.W.P.) with Deb Fribbins. We will explore your options together. https://calendly.com/deb-fribbins/ appointment-with-purpose

Simon Sinek says

DIGITAL MEDIA

By Ethan Strybosch

What if your next fundraising campaign didn’t just meet expectations—but shattered them?

If you’re aiming to boost donations, expand your reach, or build lasting donor relationships, it’s not about working harder—it’s about working smarter.

These five powerful campaigns aren’t just ideas—they’re proven strategies that inspire action and deliver real, measurable results.

Peer-to-Peer Fundraising: Empower your Supporters

Peer-to-peer (P2P) fundraising isn’t just a trend—it’s one of the most effective ways to organically grow your NFP’s donor base. It empowers your supporters to fundraise on your behalf as individuals reach out to friends, family and colleagues, tapping into personal networks to spread your non-for-profit’s message. 92% of people trust recommendations from friends and family over any other form of advertising (Nielsen), making P2P fundraising a fantastic avenue for successful NFP campaigns. Plus, peerto-peer campaigns typically raise twice as much as traditional fundraising efforts because they reach wider audiences.

The key to success is equipping your fundraisers with the right tools, such as social media templates, email scripts, and easy-to-use donation pages, to make the process accessible and enjoyable. Recognising top fundraisers with shoutouts or small rewards can also keep motivation high.

5 Fundraising Campaigns That Actually Work

(And How to Make them Thrive)

Success Story:

“Movember’s global campaign is a great example,raising over $1 billion worldwide by turning personal stories into powerful fundraising tools. The combination of humour, personal connection,and global participation makes it one of the most effective peer-to-peer campaigns ever.”

Seasonal Giving Campaigns: Capitalise on Key Moments

Seasonal giving campaigns align with key dates like Giving Tuesday, EOFY appeals, and the holiday season are times when people are naturally more inclined to give. Giving Tuesday alone raised over $3.1 billion in the U.S. in 2022, and 30% of all annual donations happen in December, with 10% occurring in the final three days of the year. By leaning into seasonal giving campaigns, your NFP can use these giving trends to increase fundraising throughout the year.

Creating urgency through countdowns, limited-time donation matches, or highlighting specific goals can significantly boost results.

Success Story:

The Salvation Army’s Red Kettle Campaignisaseasonalstaple,raising over $100 million annually during the holidays through both physical donation kettles and online giving platforms. Its recognisable branding and community engagement make it a model for successful seasonal giving.

Social Media Campaigns: Use the Power of Storytelling

As we discussed in our January Newsletter, social media is a powerful tool for non-profits, especially when it’s used to tell compelling stories. Story-driven campaigns can humanise your NFP’s cause which in turn creates emotional connections that inspire action. Focusing on real people and authentic stories that reflect the heart of your non-forprofit’s mission engages audiences. Short, emotional videos perform extremely well on social media such as TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. You can further engagement with your fundraising campaign by encouraging followers to share their own stories and use dedicated hashtags to spread your NFP’s reach.

Success Story:

“Charity:Water’s#WhyWatercampaign is a perfect example, using personal stories from communities impacted by clean water projects to create a global movement that has helped over 15 million people. Their simple, powerful storytelling approach turns donors into passionate advocates.”

Recurring Giving Campaigns: Build Long-Term Support

While one-time donations are important, recurring giving campaigns create a steady, reliable stream of income. Over one year, monthly donors give 42% more than one-time donors and have a retention rate of 90%, compared to 46% for one-time contributors.

Highlighting the convenience and longterm impact of monthly donations can turn casual supporters into lifelong advocates of your non-for-profit. Offering exclusive updates or behind-the-scenes content on projects occurring within your NFP helps keep these donors engaged.

Success Story:

World Vision’s Child Sponsorship Program is a shining example of a successful recurring giving campaign. Donors receive regular updates, photos, and personal stories about the child they’re sponsoring, creating an emotional connection that fosters long-term support—often lasting for years.

Event-Based Fundraising: Create Memorable Experiences

Events, whether in-person or virtual, are another fantastic way to raise funds for your NFP and strengthen community ties. Fundraising events can account for up to 35% of annual donations for many organisations, including NFP’s and 84% of attendees say they’re more likely to donate after participating. The rise of virtual events has expanded reach even further, increasing participation by 30% in many cases.

Combining ticket sales with activities like raffles, auctions, or donation challenges for projects or a mission in your NFP can maximise revenue while fostering a sense of belonging among supporters.

Success Story:

The Global Citizen Festival blends entertainment with activism, attracting millions of participants worldwide. By leveraging celebrity influence, live music, and powerful advocacy messages, it drives not just donations but also policy changes and global awareness for critical causes.

Key Takeaways for Campaign Success in Your Non-for-profit

• Personal Connections Matter: Authentic, emotional stories resonate more than generic appeals.

• Urgency Drives Action: Campaigns with time-sensitive goals or donation matches perform better.

• Diversify Your Channels: Combine email, social media, events, and paid ads for maximum reach.

• Consistency Builds Trust: Regular communication with your audience keeps your cause top of mind and strengthens donor relationships over time.

Ready to Elevate Your Next Fundraising Campaign?

If you’re looking to launch campaigns that drive donations and build lasting donor relationships, we’re here to help.

CYBERSECURITY: securing your devices

By Justin Middleton

Whether you are a Not-for-profit, a small business, a government department or an individual, the first line of defence is having good endpoint protection software installed on your computer. Let’s continue where we left off last month, focusing on cybersecurity and how you can protect yourself.

You may ask, “but my computer or Mac comes with protection, why do I need more?”. The simple answer is that the attack methods have increased in complexity and the basic protection is not sufficient, even for IT professionals, to mitigate the vulnerabilities.

Many individuals and businesses don’t know they’ve been compromised until

their data is being ransomed or their money has been transferred out of their bank account.

What is an endpoint?

An endpoint is a device that connects with a computer network and exchanges information, this can include your laptop, mobile phone and other devices you use daily. Each of these devices are potential points of vulnerability for you and should be adequately protected.

How do I protect my devices?

In the past security was set and forget, as easy as having anti-virus installed on your computer. Today, the approach is much more proactive – no longer weekly scans checkups but instantaneous scanning of files, checking that applications are only accessing the files and resources required. Protection from leaders in endpoint protection vendors, including Sophos,

Microsoft, Bitdefender, CrowdStrike and Sentinel One encompasses solutions that

1. Protect your email

I. Checking links (URLs)

II. Scanning files

2. Scan files on your device

3. Firewall inbound and outbound malicious connections

4. Test potentially unsafe applications in a sandboxed environment

5. Use machine learning (AI) to detect similar patterns to existing and emerging malware

6. Revert ransomware attacks

7. Filter web content

8. Provide user training (e.g., on recognizing phishing)

Help! What if I’m not sure?

Cybersecurity and endpoint protection can be a complex area. Software can be installed, but how do you know if it is working properly? Are emails you should be getting not coming through? Do you have a server that may potentially be vulnerable?

If you have a complex environment or are unsure of what protection you need, consult your local IT specialist.

Erebus IT supports the Geelong and Melbourne regions and will do a free evaluation before providing you with a list of recommendations to improve your business’ cybersecurity posture.

Resources

https://www.cyber.gov.au

https://www.gartner.com/reviews/market/ endpointprotection-platforms

https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/security/ blog/2023/03/02/microsoft-is-named-a-leader-in-the2022-gartner-magic-quadrant-for-endpointprotectionplatforms/

Data-matching program for rental properties

ACCOUNTANT

By Anjana Jogi

Recently, the Australian Taxation Office announced that they are undertaking a data-matching program with property management software providers. These are the rental statements that you receive on a regular basis from your real estate agent for your rental property.

The data-matching program is going back to the 2018–19 financial year and will continue through to the 2025–26 financial year.

The main focus of this data-matching program is to:

- identify and educate individuals and businesses who may not be lodging their income tax returns, not correctly reporting assessable income from a rental property, not correctly reporting associated rental deductions and not complying with capital gains tax obligations for properties used to derive rental income

- gain insights to help develop and implement strategies, which may include educational or compliance activities for individuals and businesses who lease or let real property, and

- promote voluntary compliance and increase community confidence in the integrity of the tax and superannuation systems.

Our focus is to ensure that you are getting the best possible tax outcome.

However, if you review your past records and notice that you made an error, please let us know. In particular, look out for:

- any year that you forgot to include rental income if you held more than one property

- situations where the rental income declared in tax returns are not at the same proportion as the ownership documents, and

- you may have claimed an outright deduction for an asset that may have needed to be claimed over multiple years.

Anjana Jogi ACCOUNTANT

Understanding the Difference Between PAYG Withholding Tax and PAYG Instalment Tax

By Jodie Moore

In Australia, the Pay-As-You-Go (PAYG) system is designed to ensure that taxes are collected and paid to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) throughout the financial year. There are two key components of the PAYG system: PAYG Withholding Tax and PAYG Instalment Tax. Though they both fall under the broader PAYG umbrella, they serve different purposes, apply to different entities, and are managed in different ways.

1. PAYG Withholding Tax

Definition and Purpose: PAYG Withholding Tax is where employers, businesses, or other entities withhold tax from payments they make to employees, contractors, or other payees. The amount withheld is then forwarded to the ATO on behalf of the individual or entity receiving the payment. This ensures that

employees or contractors meet their tax obligations progressively throughout the year, rather than paying one large sum at the end.

The purpose of PAYG Withholding is to help both employees and businesses manage tax obligations more easily. For employees, this system ensures that tax is deducted directly from their wages, removing the need for them to set aside money for tax at the end of the year. For businesses, it simplifies the tax collection process, ensuring that taxes are remitted to the ATO regularly, reducing the risk of non-compliance.

Who Does it Apply To? PAYG Withholding applies primarily to:

- Employers withholding tax from the salaries or wages of employees.

- Businesses that withhold tax from payments to contractors, particularly if they do not quote an Australian Business Number (ABN).

- Entities that make certain other payments, such as to directors, or from superannuation payments.

How is PAYG Withholding Calculated?

The amount of tax withheld is based on the employee or contractor’s income level, with reference to the tax rates set by the ATO. The ATO provides withholding schedules, which businesses must use to calculate the correct amount to withhold from each payment. These schedules vary based on factors such as income level, whether the individual has provided a tax file number (TFN), and other considerations, such as any exemptions or rebates that apply.

For employees, the withholding amounts are calculated based on a progressive tax scale, with higher earners paying a higher rate of tax. If an employee claims the tax-free threshold, the employer will reduce the amount of tax withheld each pay cycle to allow for not paying tax on the first $18,200 of the employee’s salary. This puts more money in the pockets of the employee each pay cycle but runs the risk of receiving a tax debt at tax time, depending on any other income they may have earned throughout the year such as bank interest, dividends and rental income.

Reporting and Payment: Employers and businesses must report the amounts they’ve withheld to the ATO on a regular basis, typically monthly or quarterly, depending on the business’s size and frequency of transactions. The withheld amounts are then paid to the ATO by the due date. At the end of the financial year, employees can see in their MyGov account details of how much tax has been withheld from their wages. For more on reporting, see my article next month where I look at BAS and IAS reporting.

2. PAYG Instalment Tax

Definition and Purpose: PAYG Instalment Tax refers to the system under which taxpayers (mainly businesses, individuals with significant income, and those operating as sole traders or partners in a business) pay instalments towards their anticipated tax liability for the year. These instalments are based on their income, profits, or other criteria specified by the ATO.

Rather than paying tax in one lump sum at the end of the financial year, taxpayers pay regular instalments throughout the year. These payments help ensure that the tax burden is spread across the year, easing the financial impact on the taxpayer and providing the ATO with a steady stream of income. If you are just an employee and don’t have any investments such as shares and rental income, you should find your PAYG Withholding amount covers your tax requirements, potentially resulting in a small refund depending on your deductions. However, if you own any form of investment, including receiving interest on bank savings, you will likely find yourself with a tax debt when you complete your tax return. Depending on how large that debt is will determine whether you are put onto an instalment plan.

Who Does it Apply To? PAYG Instalment Tax typically applies to:

- Businesses or individuals who earn income from sources such as selfemployment, investments, or other taxable activities.

- Taxpayers whose annual tax liability exceeds a certain threshold, as specified by the ATO.

- Taxpayers who have been notified by the ATO that they need to pay PAYG instalments based on previous tax assessments.

Generally, if a taxpayer has received an assessment of $500 or more in tax liability in the prior year, they may be required to pay PAYG instalments in the current year.

How is PAYG Instalment Tax Calculated?

The ATO calculates the instalment amount based on the taxpayer’s previous year’s income or a predetermined percentage. Taxpayers will typically receive an instalment notice from the ATO, indicating how much they need to pay, and this amount is generally due quarterly. For businesses, PAYG Instalments are calculated based on the business’s income (or the amount the business expects to earn) during the current year, with instalment amounts often adjusted for any variations in income.

The calculation of the instalments is typically an estimate of what the taxpayer will owe at the end of the financial year, helping them avoid a large tax bill when they file their tax return. If income or profits exceed expectations, additional instalments may be required.

Reporting and Payment: Businesses or individuals required to pay PAYG Instalments must report their income and pay the tax to the ATO periodically,

Special Tax Return Offer

usually quarterly. If a taxpayer’s financial situation changes during the year, they may be able to vary their instalment amount with the ATO to better match their expected final tax liability.

At the end of the financial year, taxpayers will file their tax returns, where their final tax liability is calculated. If they have overpaid through instalments, they may receive a refund; if they underpaid, they will need to pay the difference.

If you received a large tax liability in your last tax return, you may also have put yourself onto a payment plan.

If this is the case, you could find yourself paying off your payment plan as well as being put onto an Instalment plan.

Conclusion

Both PAYG Withholding Tax and PAYG Instalment Tax are essential parts of Australia’s tax system, designed to ensure taxes are paid throughout the year and reduce the burden of a large lump sum tax payment. While PAYG Withholding primarily affects employees and contractors, PAYG Instalment Tax is relevant for businesses and individuals whose income is more variable. Understanding how each works and their respective requirements can help taxpayers stay compliant and manage their financial obligations more efficiently.

Best tips for cleaning up after painting

PAINTING & DECORATING

By Steve Dahllof

The job of painting your home doesn’t finish when you stand back and admire your smooth, newly coloured walls and ceilings. There is a whole lot of stuff to do after the last brushstroke before you can celebrate your painting project being fully completed with a glass of wine or beer.

What do I do with cloths, sheets and tape?

Even while you are painting, you can make your final clean-up easier and quicker by having a damp cloth handy to wipe up drips and spills straightaway. Drips on dry or non-porous surfaces can be wiped off with mineral spirits or paint thinner.

Before the paint dries, remove all masking tape. This will minimise the likelihood of the new paint film lifting off with the tape. No problem if it has dried – just score the edge of the tape with a sharp knife or razor blade before removing the tape. For glass surfaces, wait until the paint is completely dry before using a knife or paint scraper.

When you remove the drop cloths or sheets, fold the corners into the middle. This prevents sills or drips from flicking onto surrounding areas.

Oily rags can spontaneously combust (catch on fire) if piled up or left in a closed container or space. Not fun! You can safeguard against this by immersing oily rags in an open container filled with water or drying them before putting in the washing machine.

How do I clean paintbrushes?

There are few things more tedious than getting your brushes, rollers, edgers, scrapers and paint trays out for a new job and discovering that you didn’t clean them after your last one. When you’ve finished painting, clean whatever equipment you used immediately so that paint doesn’t dry permanently on them, and dry them thoroughly to prevent rust.

If you used latex paints, you will need warm soapy water; oil paints need turps, mineral spirits or paint thinner. Don’t soak brushes in solvent or water as this can damage the bristles. Pour the soapy water or solvent into a container and dip the paintbrush into the solution. Work it through the brush bristles, dipping up and down in the container several times. Spin the paint brush in a waste area to remove excess water or thinner and then repeat process with a clean container and clean water or thinner.

A useful tip is to use one set of synthetic painting tools for oil-based products and another set for water-based products. It is

much easier to clean the paint brushes if you don’t switch back and forth between the two types of bases.

A paintbrush comb is one of the best ways to clean a paint brush. It cleans through the centre of the brush and removes any residue near the ferrule’s edge. Paint residue left in the brush hardens, causing the bristles to ‘set’, which makes them lose their bend recovery. Once clean, use the paintbrush comb to straighten the bristles or filaments. Reshape the paint brush to its original shape and lay flat to dry.

What about rollers and trays?

For rollers, disassemble and rinse with warm water, add detergent and work it into a lather to remove the paint. Air dry it standing upright to avoid crushing the fibres. For solvent-based paint, pour the solvent into the paint tray, circulate it through the roller and let it soak for a few minutes. Squeeze the excess solvent out of the roller and repeat the process with new solvent until it’s clean.

Pour unused paint from your tray back into the tin, providing it’s not contaminated by insects or dirt. Run water over your paint tray, use a scrubbing brush to remove the rest of the paint and dry the tray off with an old cloth. Discard tray liners when dry.

After using the appropriate cleaner on your hands, wash them with soap and water.

Of course, to save time and effort, you could hire a professional painter who will do all this for you!

For all painting and colour advice, contact Dahllof Painting Services at sjd67@bigpond.net.au. We will be happy to answer all your inquiries.

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Saturated fats – friend or foe?

NATUROPATHY

By Kathryn Messenger

When I was young, the messaging was that butter hardens your arteries, leading to cardiovascular disease, and it also makes you fat. I found an interesting research article that explains where that information came from and why it’s faulty.

If you’ve been around a while, like me, you will remember the song from the ‘Life be in it’ TV ads, “Eat more breads and cereals…” At time where we were told to fill up on the carbs, and to limit our fat intake. Interestingly since then, we have seen an increase in cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and obesity.

The 2014 research article titled “The Questionable Benefits of Exchanging Saturated Fat With Polyunsaturated Fat” explains where much of this began. Research from 1970 looked at 16 groups of people from 7 countries and examined a relationship between their saturated fat content and heart disease. In this study, foods that contained saturated fats like

butter counted as fat intake, which makes sense in theory, were counted as fats. But what actually happened was that biscuits, cakes, pastries, and savoury snacks counted as fats, when their main ingredients were carbohydrates (and white refined carbohydrates at that). It also found that countries which had significantly increased risk or cardiovascular disease, sometimes had the same fat intake as those with a low risk. The article goes on to cite other studies that have shown either no correlation between saturated fats and cardiovascular disease or even an improvement!

Since the 1970’s many people have exchanged their intake of saturated fats for polyunsaturated omega 6 fats, which have been shown to have worse health outcomes. Part of this may be due to the essential fatty acids found in food like butter, such as vitamin E and vitamin A. The other problem is that people are substituting butter for heat extracted or hydrogenated vegetable oils which have a higher risk of cardiovascular and other diseases.

It can be really hard to go against what we’ve been told is best for us, however it can be a lot easier if you know why the recommendation was made and what it was based on.

I encourage you to do your own reading, there is a link below to the article here, but there are many others. If you’re not used to reading research articles, go to ‘google scholar’ and search for things like benefits of butter or benefits of coconut oil and see what you find.

https://www.mayoclinicproceedings. org/article/S0025-6196(13)01004-5/fulltext

GEELONG COUNCIL NEWS

Amendment related to Highton Village referred to independent panel

An independent panel appointed by the Minister for Planning will consider 25 submissions from the community about Amendment C457ggee

The proposed amendment aims to implement land-use planning elements into the Greater Geelong Planning Scheme from the adopted Highton Village Urban Design Framework (UDF), which outlines a long-term vision for the area.

Council last night referred the submissions about the proposed amendment to the panel following community consultation in late 2024. One submission was supportive, two provided comments, four were duplicate submissions and 18 objected.

Concerns raised include the proposed rezoning of two City-owned car parks at 19 Belle Vue Avenue and 1A Taylor Court to the Commercial 1 Zone, proposed development heights and the inclusion of an affordable housing policy.

As a result of the feedback, the City has proposed some changes to the amendment, including to remove the adopted UDF as a background document in the planning scheme.

The City’s response to community submissions will be submitted to the panel, as well as Council’s resolution last night to reduce building height limits for the Commercial 1 zone to nine metres, to maintain the character of Highton Village.

It is important that everyone’s views are heard.

By referring the submissions to an independent panel, we can ensure an open and accountable process.

We thank the submitters for taking the time to give feedback on Amendment C457ggee.

Councillor Andrew Katos

All submissions will be considered by the independent panel.

Submitters will have the opportunity to appear at the panel hearing to have their say.

The panel will review the feedback and Amendment C457ggee before making any recommendations to Council.

Deputy Mayor Ron Nelson

Council calls for bipartisan support for Geelong Ring Road Extension

Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM is advocating for bipartisan support for the Geelong Ring Road Extension to deliver a critical road link to the Bellarine, ahead of the upcoming Federal Election.

The extension or “Bellarine Link” would connect Baanip Boulevard at the Surf Coast Highway to Barwon Heads Road, significantly benefiting the local community and visitors with a safer, faster, and more direct link between Melbourne, Geelong, and the Bellarine Peninsula.

The major road infrastructure project is among the City’s local and regional priorities that require investment from the Federal and/or State Government.

Completing the extension would reduce travel times between the current Ring Road and some of the furthest points on the Bellarine Peninsula by as much as fifteen minutes and alleviate congestion, especially during peak times.

The new infrastructure would also reduce truck movement in Central Geelong, allowing heavy vehicles to move between Melbourne and Geelong’s North and the Bellarine Peninsula without travelling through the CBD.

The Victorian Government has already undertaken community consultation and planning work, and the road is identified as a key infrastructure project in Victoria’s Big Build. A Business Case has also been

completed, with the project requiring Federal and State funding commitments.

Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM:

Extending the Geelong Ring Road to Barwon Heads Road is vital for our growing region.

As the population grows, and the traffic through that area increases, and we need infrastructure that keeps pace with community need.

The extension would reduce travel times by up to 15 minutes and support our region’s growing population by improving the links between the Bellarine and Melbourne.

It would also support rail connections to Marshall Station and support active travel through separate paths that keep cars, cyclists and pedestrians safely apart.

For sustainable growth and liveability we need fewer trucks in Central Geelong, and the Geelong Ring Road Extension would enable a direct link between Geelong’s North and the Bellarine without trucks in our CBD.

As we approach the upcoming Federal Election, I want to see every candidate commit to this project –we need the support of all parties so that this infrastructure is delivered regardless of the result.

Mayor Kontelj at the current end of the Geelong Ring Road at the Surf Coast Highway

City opens Expressions of Interest for tourism operators to lease part of Seagull Paddock

The City of Greater Geelong has opened Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for tourism operators to lease an area of land at 360 Melbourne Road, Norlane, known as Seagull Paddock.

The site offers considerable benefits to tourism operators, with close proximity to the Spirit of Tasmania terminal which sees more than 450,000 passenger movements annually.

It is also near the hospitality and retail of the Pivot City precinct and offers excellent access to Geelong’s main traffic thoroughfare, making for easy travel to and from Melbourne, the Bellarine Peninsula and other tourism locations.

The land is currently zoned as Public Park and Recreation Zone (PPRZ), and the City is seeking EOIs from potential tenants with proposals for uses that are permitted under this zone. The land will not be rezoned.

Seagull Paddock was a former landfill during the 1970s, making it only suitable for uses that do not disturb subsurface soil.

Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM:

“Our Sustainable Destination Master Plan (SDMP) says we need to do more to enhance tourism opportunities around the Spirit of Tasmania and in Geelong’s north, so we’re getting on with it through this EOI process.

Seagull Paddock is in an incredible location with strong tourism potential for the right operator.”

Councillor Trent Sullivan:

“We look forward to receiving some really good submissions, and we can’t wait to see the potential of this site realised.”

Submissions are now open, and must be completed online before 5:00pm Monday 31 March 2025.

Interested parties can make a submission via the expression of interest page

New netball court and upgraded facilities open at Anakie Reserve

Upgraded netball facilities have been officially opened at Anakie Reserve, home of the Anakie Football and Netball Club.

The upgrade includes an extra netball court, with lighting, shelter and fencing, and was funded by the Australian and Victorian governments in partnership with the City.

The additional court will allow more participation from community members of all ages while facilitating safer training and play, supporting the club to grow its membership base.

Further infrastructure upgrades, including the new lighting, will promote a safer playing and training environment in all conditions.

The facilities were officially opened by You Yangs Ward Councillor Chris Burson, Federal Member for Corio, The Hon Richard Marles MP, State Member for Lara Ella George MP and Anakie Football and Netball Club President Heath Menhennet.

By bringing the club facilities up to a similar standard to other clubs across Greater Geelong, the Anakie Football and Netball Club will be able to provide more court time for all grades, including the club’s NetSetGo children’s program, supporting player development and leading to a stronger senior program in the longer term.

The update was funded with $267,867 from Phase Three of the Australian Government’s Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI) program and $197,133 from Round Two of the Victorian Government’s Country Football and Netball Program, along with $41,774 from the City.

The Albanese Government is proud to partner with the Allan Government to support the council in delivering this really important local project

I’m so pleased that these new facilities at Anakie will enable to club to continue to grow into the future, and importantly, give netball the safe and proper facilities to support women and girls in sport.

Netball at the Anakie Roos is thriving –and will continue to go from strength to strength with these new facilities.

The new netball court, lighting and other facilities will mean that more netballers can get out and enjoy the sport they love.

I’m proud to be a member of the State Labor Government that invests in world class community facilities like these at Anakie Reserve.

Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM:

This is a fantastic achievement for the Anakie Football and Netball Club following years of advocacy

The future of community sport is looking bright in Anakie, and I think we’ll see the club’s netball program elevate to a new level following these upgrades.

Councillor Chris Burson:

It was a very proud moment to see the work on this project come to fruition

I’d like to congratulate everyone involved in the Anakie Football and Netball Club, including the committee members, players, parents, spectators and volunteers — Go Roos!

The Hon Richard Marles MP, Ella George MP, Cr Chris Burson and Cr Anthony Aitken with Anakie Football and Netball Club representatives

State Member for Lara Ella George MP:

Federal Member for Corio The Hon Richard Marles MP:

Be part of Tastes of Greater Geelong 2025

We’re inviting restaurants, bars, cafes, producers, retailers, community organisations and individuals to dream up extraordinary experiences that showcase our region as one of Australia’s most renowned food, beverage, and hospitality destinations.

Expressions of Interest (EOI) to be included in the program are open for our annual mid-winter festival, which last year injected $1.681 million into the local economy over 24 days.

EXPRESS INTERNET ONLINE

The festival is open to all Greater Geelong businesses to host food and drink related events between Friday 20 June until Sunday 20 July.

We’re looking for a diverse range of events from unique experiences, demonstrations, gourmet tasting menus, masterclasses and special offers, to tours, high teas, markets, pub crawls, meal planning classes, competitions and more.

Whether you’re new to the festival or a seasoned regular, join us for our online Tastes Program Information Session on Tuesday 25th February 3.00 - 3.45pm.

EOIs will be accepted until Friday 28 March.

Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM

Tastes is a calendar highlight for residents and visitors alike.

Tastes of Greater Geelong features the best in food, drink and hospitality from our region, including mouthwatering desserts, savoury delights and locally produced products.

This is a chance for traders, producers and hospitality venues to bring the community together through their passion for quality, local flavours.

Councillor Eddy Kontelj

We encourage those in food and hospitality to put their thinking caps on and submit an Expression of Interest.

Tastes provides valuable exposure, new audiences and an opportunity to demonstrate a business’ unique point of difference.

This festival is just one of the ways Council uplifts and promotes the business community, while encouraging patronage during the traditionally quieter winter months.

Tastes of Greater Geelong gives the opportunity to reimagine your business.

Create, experiment and do something new.

Let your chefs dream and put forward something unique for your customers.

New dishes, new concepts, new anything – just make it yours!

Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM with Ket Baker’s Miek Paulus, Manpreet Sekhon from Eastern Spice (also Elchi and Masti in Melbourne) and Brian Anderson from Bahjong and Baah Lah!

Bahjong owner and chef Brian Anderson

About Kids+

NOT-FOR-PROFIT

Based on the Deakin University Campus, Waurn Ponds, Kids+ provides allied health services for families and young people who have physical disabilities, such as cerebral palsy. We offer a range of personalised support for infants, children, teenagers and young adults who may have an underlying physical difficulty that impacts their daily lives. Together, through our values of care, commitment, collaboration, creativity and celebration, we create opportunities for young people and their families to thrive.

We provide more than just therapy - Kids+ partners with families every step of the way. Combining the knowledge and perspectives of families with the insights and skills of the Kids+ team and current research is key to our approach.

We provide personalised support through individual and group therapy sessions, intensive programs and parental training programs. Some of our most popular therapy programs are Surf Ed, Bike Ed and Hydrotherapy, where children find confidence in mastering skills they may have thought impossible.

Our vision is ‘a world with more possibilities’ and we strive to make inclusion a central part of the community’s mindset.

www.kidsplus.org.au

OF THE MONTH

Upcoming events:

• This is the 10th anniversary of the event, which has raised over $2 million since its inception

• It is a major fundraiser for Kids+

• You can trek solo or with a team

• Choose from 26km (Anglesea to Torquay) or 40km (Aireys Inlet to Torquay)

• Sign up or donate at www.surfcoasttrek.com.au

Sunday 5th October 2025

Rippleside Park, Geelong 11am – 2pm

Kids+ Kite Festival

Designed to promote a sense of belonging and community connection, the Kids+ Kite Festival brings together people of all abilities for a fun, accessible, and inclusive family day. The popular event generally garners more than 1,000 attendees at the beautiful Rippleside Park overlooking the bay, creating a real community festival atmosphere.

PERSONAL SAFETY

How to stay safe when you’re out and about

We all enjoy heading out for some fun and relaxation – whether it’s a night out with friends, going for a walk, catching public transport, or just out shopping. As well as having a good time, it’s important you know how to keep yourself safe and also watch out for your friends.

Getting around safely

When you’re heading out for the night, plan ahead to make you get there and home safely.

Walking around

Try to walk with friends or stay near a group of people and stick to busy areas.

Take well-lit, busy streets, carry a mobile phone and a personal alarm with you and try to keep both hands free.

If you’re wearing headphones or earbuds, keep the volume low enough to hear surrounding noise or keep one ear free.

If a vehicle pulls up suddenly beside you, turn and walk in the other direction.

Consider carrying a personal alarm with you.

Getting there and home safely

Before you head out, work out how you’re going to get home safely – have money or cards for a taxi, book an Uber, top-up your Myki, arrange for a sober friend or family member to pick you up, make sure there’s a designated driver in your group or check public transport times so you know when the last train, bus or tram leaves and where the closest stops are.

Only accept lifts with people you trust, or book a licensed taxi or registered Uber. Ask the driver to wait until you’re safely inside.

Driving

Don’t drive if you’ve been drinking alcohol or taking drugs.

Never get into a car with a driver who’s been drinking or taking drugs, is unlicensed or has too many people in the car.

If you’ve driven your own vehicle and end up drinking alcohol or taking other drugs while you’re out, leave your car there and find a safe way home.

If you’re the designated driver for the evening – don’t drink alcohol or take drugs and don’t overload the car with passengers. Make sure everyone has a seat and has fastened their seatbelt.

If you’re taking friends home, wait until they are safely inside before you drive off.

Public transport

Make sure you have enough money loaded on your Myki to get to your location and home again.

If travelling by train, sit in the first carriage near the driver and sit near other people if you can, such as a family group.

If taking a tram or bus, sit as close to the driver as possible.

Plan ahead to avoid long waits for transport, especially at night.

Try to use stops that are well-lit and located in areas where there’s lots of foot traffic or other people around.

If you feel unsafe, alert the Protective Services Officers (PSOs), public transport staff, the driver, police or other passengers to help. On trains use the red emergency call button to speak with the driver or conductor.

If you feel uncomfortable with the person near you, change seats or carriages.

If you’ll be returning at night, park your car as close to the station as possible, in a welllit area. If you feel unsafe walking to your car, ask a PSO to accompany you.

On Friday and Saturday nights in Melbourne, use Public Transport Victoria’s Night Network which runs throughout the night.

PERSONAL SAFETY ALARMS

Neighbourhood Watch Greater Geelong has personal alarms available for purchase. $10.00 each. Email us to order yours.

Email: neighbourhoodwatchgeelong@gmail.com

The alarms have an ear piercing sound deters attackers and alerts people in the vicinity. It is easily activated by pulling the key chain pin and can be used by anyone regardless of age or physical ability.

The Bellarine Show

Celebrating Community, Agriculture, and Local Talent

The Bellarine Show is one of the region’s most anticipated annual events, bringing together a rich mix of agricultural displays, community engagement, and local talent.

Held in Portarlington, the show has become an essential part of the local calendar, attracting visitors from across the Bellarine Peninsula and beyond. This year, the Bellarine Show promises to be bigger and better than ever, offering something for everyone, from agricultural competitions to family-friendly entertainment.

Show Entries: Showcasing Local Talent and Agriculture

The Bellarine Show prides itself on being a platform for showcasing the talent and hard work of locals. Whether you’re an experienced farmer, a budding artist, or a passionate cook, the show offers a wide range of categories for people of all ages and interests to enter.

Farmers and breeders compete in categories such as cattle, sheep, poultry, and this year we are featuring Miniature and Pygmy Goats.

In addition to livestock, the Bellarine Show offers various other categories, including: Arts and Crafts: A celebration of local creativity, with categories ranging from painting and sculpture to knitting, quilting, and woodworking.

Food: Homegrown produce, jams, sauces and cakes are all part of the competition, giving local food enthusiasts a chance to show off their culinary talents.

Produce: Gardeners can enter their best flowers, plants, and vegetables.

Photography: For those with a creative eye, the photography competition allows people to share their perspectives on the world around them.

Dog Jump and Gumboot Toss

The Bellarine Show provides a wonderful opportunity for the community to come together and celebrate the diversity of talent and interests that make the region unique. There’s a category for everyone, from seasoned experts to those trying their hand at something new for the first time.

A Call for Volunteers: Join the Team and Make a Difference

Running such a large and vibrant event requires the support of dedicated volunteers.

The Bellarine Show is calling for volunteers to help with a range of tasks before, during, and after the event.

Volunteering at the Bellarine Show is an excellent way to get involved in your community, meet new people, and contribute to the success of one of the region’s most cherished events. Whether you have a few hours to spare or can volunteer for multiple days, your contribution will be greatly appreciated.

How to Get Involved

If you’re interested in entering the show or volunteering, please complete the Contact us form on the website. Entry forms for the various competitions are available online, along with guidelines for each category. The process is simple, and we welcome first-time entrants. Bellarine Agricultural Show

Conclusion

The Bellarine Show is more than just an event – it’s a celebration of the community, creativity, and hard work that make the Bellarine Peninsula such a special place.

With its wide array of competitions and a call for volunteers, the show continues to be a vital part of local life, bringing people together to celebrate everything that makes this region unique.

So, mark your calendars, gather your entries, and sign up to volunteer –the Bellarine Show is an event you won’t want to miss!

Sunday 9 March 2025

All Aboard for a Celebration with Thomas!

The Party Tour is rolling into Queenscliff this April, and everyone’s invited to celebrate 80 years of Thomas and Friends™.

12 - 13 April 2025

Sir Topham Hatt has planned a funfilled day featuring unlimited rides with Thomas and the Troublesome Trucks, a scenic 45-minute journey with Douglas along Swan Bay, and the chance to visit Henry’s Driver’s Cab and pull the whistle cord to sound Henry’s whistle from the ground. Rusty and Dusty will be ready to entertain everyone as they do their best to help Sir Topham Hatt keep the engines running right on time. This year, there will also be a 1915 Steam Crane, a Model Railway display, and a U-Drive exhibit for children to enjoy.

But the fun doesn’t stop there - Magic shows, mini fire engine rides, a 9-hole mini golf course, and art activities will keep everyone entertained! Plus, children have a party pack to collect that includes a certificate, A3 poster, and more as a keepsake of the day

Highlights

• Unlimited rides with Thomas and the Troublesome Trucks

• A scenic journey along picturesque Swan Bay

• Meet and greet with Sir Topham Hatt

• Live entertainment: magic shows and art activities

• Party pack for children

• Photo opportunities galore!

When

Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 April 2025 - 10am to 4pm

Where:

The Bellarine Railway – Queenscliff Station 20 Symonds (bottom of Learmonth) Street, Queenscliff VIC 3225

Tickets:

Inclusive of train trips, rides, activities, entertainment, party pack, and photos

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this special Thomas and Friends milestone at the Bellarine Railway.

For event details or to book your tickets today visit: www.bellarinerailway.com. au/day-out-with-thomas

General public can contact the railway via the following: info@bellarnerailway.com.au 03 5258 2069

Get social with us

Facebook: @TheBellarineRailway

Instagram: @the_bellarine_railway #dayoutwiththomasqueenscliff #bellarinerailway

About the Bellarine Railway

The Bellarine Railway is operated by the Geelong Steam Preservation Society, a not-for-profit founded in 1970.The society was the first Victorian preserved railway established entirely by volunteers and features a unique collection of locomotives and carriages from 3’6” narrow-gauge systems across Australia.

Trains first ran at Belmont Common in Geelong, before operations moved (1976) to the Queenscliff-Drysdale section of the former Victorian Railway’s South Geelong-Queenscliff branch line, which opened in May 1879. Originally, broad gauge, the line was converted to 3’6” between Queenscliff and Lakers Siding in time for the line’s centenary, with the remaining section to Drysdale reopened in 1980.

Today the railway is home to the Blues Train and Q Train, and offers steam train journeys,experiences and family events year-round, enhancing the rail experiences offered to visitors in the region.

Hard Days

As Winston Churchill was working to form the United Nations after WWII, he famously said, ’Never let a good crisis go to waste ’

Some of you will know my story of facing a crisis – being kidnapped at gunpoint on my ninth day of teaching as Headmaster at Wooreen State School in 1977. Coping at that time was hard, to say the least, but it became a catalyst for personal growth as I pushed through trying to remain positive, kind, grateful and forgiving.

Only after we’ve been down, can we go up. Only after we’ve had loss can we experience renewal. As much as we try to avoid the negatives, they are inevitable but it’s through them that we grow.

Adversity and hard times aren’t bad in themselves. In this world they are unavoidable. It’s how we deal with them and grow through them that counts.

By working through difficult times, we can become stronger people in the long run Our children too, if well supported, will become more resilient and better developed individuals. And as our children observe us navigate the hard times, they will learn by our example of how to work through their crises.

Some of the greatest achievements and stories have come in the midst of turmoil and pain. Edward (Weary) Dunlop’s feats as a WWII prisoner of war in Burma are inspirational There are many such stories of heroism in the midst of adversity.

A few suggestions that may be helpful as we push through challenging days:

• Determine to face the problems with a positive mindset knowing that we will get through them

• Remember that tough times don’t last but tough people do

• Focus on the good things of life

• Practice gratitude – listing all the things we can be thankful for and going out of our way to thank anyone and everyone for both the little and the big

• Be kind to the people around us – reaching out in kindness to others lifts our spirits

• Speak positively about people and situations – try to accept others mistakes remembering none of us are perfect

• Be kind to ourselves – treat ourselves as we would a friend or colleague going through similar hard times

• Maintaining healthy relationships is worth the effort – making the most of every opportunity to build, support and encourage others

Laugh and the whole world laughs with you...

Discover the magic of laughter especially when shared.

Laughter Club Geelong is in its 24th year and happens every Saturday morning at Eastern Beach in front of the swimming enclosure.

9:00am every Saturday is the starting time for Laughter Club Geelong.

After a half hour of laughter yoga done in your everyday clothes you’ll have a new outlook on life. Plus afterwards share more laughter over a latte at a nearby venue.

Everyone is welcome to join in the free session.

For those people coming from the western suburbs please remember Pako Fest is on and there will be road closures.

Hope to see you there for some laughter.

“PAWS FOR GAWS” CHARITY DOG WALK WRAP UP

The Geelong Animal Welfare Society (GAWS) held its “PAWS for GAWS” Charity Dog Walk event on Sunday March 2, with hundreds of happy faces and wagging tails in attendance.

More than 250 people and their four-legged friends signed up for the relaxed 4km walk then joined the festivities at the PAW-TY Zone at Eastern Park afterwards - all for a good cause.

GAWS CEO Helen Cocks said, “PAWS for GAWS is a vibrant celebration of our companion pets, our community, and our shared commitment to animal welfare in our region. We are thrilled so many people joined us for our second PAWS for GAWS event, and it was wonderful to see so many dogs - of all shapes, sizes and breeds – enjoying the day.”

A highlight of the day was the Pooch Parade, with MC Roxie Bennett and Lauren ‘Loggy’ Temuskos engaging the crowd during the entertaining segment. Dogs were invited onto the stage to perform; with the best trick, waggiest tail and best dressed all crowned by Geelong’s Masterchef Simon Toohey and Georgia Radley.

The PAW-TY Zone featured market stalls, face painting, games for the kids and a roaming entertainer, while the dogs in attendance were treated to a puppy parlour, a treat stall and dog products at the GAWS Op Shop.

PAWS for GAWS community ambassadors and their furry friends showed their support including MasterChef Runner-up Simon Toohey and wife Georgia Radley with dog Lentil, Krock presenter Lauren ‘Loggy’ Temuskos with dog Wombi, GT Magazine Editor Sarah Bieske with dog Franklin, and former mayor and mental health & fitness advocate Pete Murrihy with dog Frankie.

Geelong’s favourite mascots, Half Cat and Clawdia were outnumbered but still very welcome amongst the dogs and participants.

Some dogs currently in GAWS’ care waiting to be adopted were treated to a special day out, walking the PAWS for GAWS track alongside GAWS animal attendants.

Last year, 3383 animals came into GAWS’ care, including 1263 dogs and puppies. It costs GAWS $65 a day per animal to provide care and essentials while preparing them for rehoming.

“We are a charity and do not receive government funding for our shelter. We rely on the generosity of our community, and those who participated in PAWS for GAWS have helped us continue to deliver our vital work and promote responsible pet ownership,” Ms Cocks said.

More than $11,700 was raised through registrations, donations, merchandise and raffle ticket sales.

MARCH 2025

LEOPOLD SPORTSMANS CLUB BOWLS

In 1971 a couple of locals, Len Lewis and Kevin Ash had an idea for a bowls club in Leopold. The idea took hold, a committee formed and money raised. A location was needed that would have enough space for two bowling greens and a clubhouse. Finally this was located in Kensington Road, our current location and 5 acres purchased for $8500.

In May 1975 the club was officially opened as a family friendly sporting club by Brian Dixon, the then Minister for Youth, Sport and Recreation.

You can see the results for yourself on visiting our club.

There are so many people to thank over many years for their support, encouragement and voluntary help along with the the original crew that helped established the club.

Leopold Sporties, located in Leopold, Victoria, is a club based on sports. We offer Bowls, both social and Pennant, Golf, Racquet Ball and Squash.

FC LEOPOLD

FC Leopold was established in 2016 by Jared Larkins and Mitchell Vials. The club is based in Leopold, Victoria and played its first competitive games in 2017. In our first season we had over 100 registered players and expect those numbers to grow in 2018 and continue to grow into the future as the club continues to develop.

The club aims to provide a positive family friendly enviroment for our members to develop their skills off the field and to also become great people off the field.The club is run solely by volunteers and we are always looking to get members involved in helping the club grow and develop.

We are aiming to become a huge part of the Leopold community and look forward to growing the sport of football (soccer) in our beautiful town.

FC Leopold is a community club that fields senior mens teams, a senior womens team and multiple miniroos and junior teams in Geelong competitions.

FC Leopold are looking for enthusiastic members of the community who would like to contribute to the clubs ethos and family friendly feel - whether that is through being a committee member, volunteer, coach or player.

Like the page to keep up to date with the clubs progress as exciting things are happening with lights and a massive COGG funded pavilion project.

in the spotlight

Getting to know your find Geelong contributors

Sally Higoe

• Leadership Alignment & Performance Consultant

Unlike other leadership experts, Sally is uniquely world-experienced having lead high-performing teams across multiple countries has amplified her ability to know what it takes to build resilience and understand

Her greatest learning however, was to recognise that when a leader ‘shines’ from the inside-out, they’re able and she wants to share her know-how!

Sally works with leaders in new roles who are feeling flustered, confused and borderline incapable and capable of tapping into and leaning on their true classic self for simplicity in their decision making!

Sally has a pragmatic approach and is known for ‘being herself’. She’s developed the admirable ability pressures - and still obtain outstanding results… and she’s on a mission to help leaders in new roles reach whilst you navigate changing times.

Sally would love to work with leaders who are 18 months or less in a new role, in a service-based industry

• Facilitator of Find Geelong

teams in high-pressure outlying remote environments. This experience understand team-culture first-hand.

able to influence a ripple of positive change, generating impact that then gives rise for others to shine… and turns them into a Lion-hearted star-bold, present, courageous and energised - but most importantly,

ability to take this to any situation, lead with volition as required - without the need to conform to outside reach this level too. Sally will ensure you find your classic sparkle and reach your destination with clarity

industry who is experiencing the above personal challenges around their role.

THE GEELONG ARTS CENTRE

Expect a captivating mix of fan favourites, chart-topping hits, and new material, all delivered with Damien’s signature passion and emotional depth.

Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to his music, this evening promises to be a memorable experience, as Damien does what he does best!

Tickets are on sale now.

Fri, 07 Mar 2025 17:30am

Damien Leith - Up Close & Personal

Damien Leith is heading to Geelong in 2025!

Join Damien Leith for a special evening of music and storytelling, where he will perform his most requested songs in an intimate setting.

With nearly two decades in the music industry, Damien’s powerful voice and heartfelt performances have captivated audiences nationwide. During this unique event, he will share the personal stories behind some of his biggest hits, including Hallelujah, Danny Boy, and Night of My Life.

The Open House

VENUE ADDRESS

50 Little Malop St

CentreStage Presents Come From Away

CentreStage presents Come From Away, being staged for the first time in Geelong!

Welcome to the Rock!

Winner of four Olivier Awards including Best New Musical in London and the Tony Award for Best Direction of a Musical on Broadway, this smash hit show shares the incredible real-life story of the 7,000 air passengers from all over the world who were grounded in Canada during the wake of 9/11, and the small Newfoundland community that invited these ‘come from aways’ into their lives with open hearts.

Staged by the multi-award winning production company; CentreStage brings together a local cast and creative team for the retelling of the events surrounding Gander and 9/11. Experience this joyous story and soaring music as spirited locals and global passengers come together to forge friendships that will stay with them forever. The first female American Airlines captain, the quick-thinking town mayor, the mother of a New York firefighter and the eager local news reporter are among the characters caught at the start of the moment that changed the course of history and whose stories became a true celebration of hope, humanity and unity.

Tony Award-winning director Christopher Ashley alongside Olivier Award-winning writers Irene Sankoff and David Hein bring this uplifting true story to the stage in a life-affirming production that has audiences on their feet night after night.

PERFORMANCES Fri, 07 Mar 2025 07:30pm Sat, 08 Mar 2025 02:00pm Sat, 08 Mar 2025

Thu, 13 Mar 2025

Fri, 14 Mar 2025

Sat, 15 Mar 2025

Sun, 16 Mar 2025 05:00pm Wed, 19 Mar 2025 07:30pm Thu, 20 Mar 2025 07:30pm Fri, 21 Mar 2025 07:30pm Sat, 22 Mar 2025 02:00pm Sat, 22 Mar 2025 07:30pm

TICKET PRICES

CENTRE SEASON 2025

Queen - Bohemian Rhapsody: The Greatest Hits

Queen Greatest Hits Tour featuring Thomas Crane and Bohemian Rhapsody is touring Australia in 2025!

Following a hugely successful sold-out national tour in 2024, the popular and authentic Queen tribute experience is returning with an explosive new show combining Queen’s ‘Greatest Hits’.

Don’t miss the internationally acclaimed Thomas Crane, alongside his hot band Bohemian Rhapsody, as they bring the visual excitement, sound and stage energy of a Queen concert to life!

Kings Of Country Rock: Eagles Vs Creedence

Get ready for a two-hour stage spectacular that captures the sounds and excitement of America’s country rock icons: Eagles and Creedence Clearwater Revival

The Kings of Country Rock concert features all the timeless rock and roll classics that defined the Eagles and Creedence Clearwater Revival as 1970’s superstars.

Part one of the highly-acclaimed show takes the audience on a musical journey of the Eagles, the highest-selling American band in U.S. Audience members will hear faithfully reproduced masterpieces such as Take It Easy, Witchy Woman, Already Gone, One of These Nights, Lyin’ Eyes, Take It to the Limit, New Kid in Town, Desperado, Hotel California and Life in the Fast Lane.

Part two of the show kicks into overdrive, featuring the chart-topping sounds of San Francisco’s favourite sons, Creedence Clearwater Revival. With more than 26 million album sales in the U.S. alone, it was CCR’s take of Dale Hawkins’ rockabilly classic Suzie Q that set an irrepressible force in motion and made the band a platinum

Queen is among the greatest rock bands of the 20th century and Freddie Mercury is hailed by many as the most charismatic and flamboyant performer in contemporary rock.

Queen, Bohemian Rhapsody will perform all the great hits like We Will Rock You, Crazy Little Thing Called Love, We Are The Champions, Radio Ga Ga, A Kind of Magic, I Want To Break Free, Another One Bites the Dust and Bohemian Rhapsody.

Tickets are on sale now!

The Story House BUY TICKETS TRIBUTE SHOW

household name. CCR anthems such as Proud Mary, Bad Moon Rising, Up Around The Bend, Born On The Bayou, Have You Ever Seen The Rain, Travelin’ Band and Green River will surely get the audience singing a chorus of hits.

The Kings of Country Rock Tour is much more than a concert. It is the ultimate rock experience! The cast of multi-talented and internationally respected musicians brings to life a stage show like no other.

Get aboard Proud Mary as we set sail down the Dark Desert Highway of the 1970’s, featuring the platinum hits of the Eagles and Creedence Clearwater Revival.

Tickets are on sale now!

PERFORMANCES Thu, 13 Mar 2025 08:00pm

TICKET PRICES

Venue

Brahms & Tchaikovsky

| Melbourne Symphony Orchestra 2025

Subscription packages for the MSO Geelong Series 2025 are now available.

Secure the best seats at the best prices by subscribing early!

KEY DATES

Early Bird

Renewal Deadline* 16 August 2024, 6pm

Renewing Subscribers’ Deadline 20 September 2024, 6pm

Individual concerts available to purchase from 1 October 2024, 10am

Performances

Fri, 14 Mar 202507:30pm

Venue

Costa Hall - Deakin University Geelong Waterfront

Running In The Shadows Of Fleetwood Mac

TRIBUTE SHOW

Experience Australia’s premier tribute to Fleetwood Mac – Running in the Shadows

Running in the Shadows are Australia’s longest running tribute to this iconic band, and continue to tour this country (and others) extensively, playing in some of the best venues to capacity crowds.

Running in the Shadows is unlike any other, they deliver the energy and enthusiasm night after night as they explore the music of Fleetwood Mac to pay homage to the superstar band.

You will hear all your favorites, Gypsy, Landslide, Don’t Stop, Rhiannon, Dreams, Everywhere, Go your own way, The Chain…and many , many more. The six-piece rock band explore Fleetwood Mac’s extensive back catalogue, covering all the classic ballads, blues and rock songs from their five decade plus career.

From the early hits from the music of Peter Green, through to the Rumours album era, spanning up to Tango In The Night and even some of Stevie Nicks solo material, there is something for every Fleetwood Mac fan to enjoy. Audience members who have seen The Australian Fleetwood Mac show in the past have found it hard to believe they were not experiencing the real deal on stage.

Fleetwood Mac have sold more than one hundred million albums world-wide and been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame – Fleetwood Mac’s songs are part of international music history.

Don’t miss out - tickets are on sale now!

PERFORMANCES

Fri, 21 March 2025 08:00pm

Heath Franklin’s ChopperThe Last Hard B*stard on Earth

Heath Franklin’s Chopper is returning to Geelong in 2025!

2 X WINNER - BEST COMEDY WEEKLY - FRINGE WORLD 2024, 2018 WINNER - COMIC’S CHOICE - MELBOURNE INT’L COMEDY FESTIVAL 2018

The year is 2030. Humanity is all but wiped out, and there is only one man who can save us from the Softc*ckalypse.

| NOVEL | ADAPTATION

In 1901, the word bondmaid was discovered to be missing from the Oxford English Dictionary.

The Dictionary of Lost Words is the story of the girl who stole it.

South Australian novelist Pip Williams’ internationally best-selling book, comes to vivid life in this critically acclaimed stage adaptation by South Australian playwright, Verity Laughton.

A best-selling multi-award winner (including the People’s Choice Award at the NSW Premier’s Literary Awards) and chosen for the Reese Witherspoon Book Club, the book has been lauded as an “absorbing, quietly revolutionary novel”, “deeply, intrinsically kind (and) a profoundly comforting place to dwell” (The Age) and “a captivating and slyly subversive fictional paean to the real women whose work on the Oxford English Dictionary went largely unheralded.” (New York Times).

For too long, we thought that things like ‘gentle parenting’, ‘love languages’ and ‘paper straws’ were a good idea... until self-diagnosing whingers and 37 types of milk destroyed civilisation...

Then, like a glorious moustachioed phoenix, a hard b*stard arose from the beta cuck ashes to restart humankind.

Strap in! Chopper is back, just in time…. to live again!

Tickets are on sale now.

Thu, 27 Mar 2025

BUY TICKETS

Motherless and ever curious, Esme spends her childhood in the Scriptorium – the “Scrippy”, a converted garden shed in Oxford where her father and a team of lexicographers guided by Dr James Murray are gathering words for the very first Oxford English Dictionary. She hides beneath the sorting table and catches a word on a “slip” as it falls and soon, she finds other words that have been neglected by the men. Here begins Esme’s collection of her own: the Dictionary of Lost Words.

As the years pass, Esme realises that little importance is placed on recording the words and meanings relating to women’s experiences and as her world expands and her circle of friends grows – actresses, suffragettes, market traders, workers, she realises the power in their silenced voices and decides to lend them hers. And on the way, she comes to understand the many meanings of the word “love”.

Performances

Ticket Prices

TRIBUTE SHOW

The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber

The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber is heading to Geelong!

Direct From London’s West End, prepare to be mesmerized by the incomparable talent and voice of Australian tenor Paul Ettore Tabone in an international tribute to the musicals of Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber and West End & Broadway favourites.

Paul Tabone has been Dubbed a “Powerhouse of voice” (Theatre Direct) and hailed as “Australia’s own Bocelli” (BBC) Tabone is set to dazzle audiences with his extraordinary vocal prowess and magnetic stage presence.

BALLET & DANCE

Shake Rattle ‘n’ Roll

Join us for a captivating evening as Tabone performs the greatest Musical Hits from productions such as Phantom of the Opera, Evita, Cats, Jesus Christ Superstar, Joseph and His Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, Les Misérables, Sound of Music, Carousel, Rogers and Hammerstein, Jersey Boys all in one unforgettable show where every hit performance is guaranteed to be a showstopper!

Experience the magic as Paul Tabone delivers breathtaking renditions of beloved arias and songs from the likes of Luciano Pavarotti and Andrea Bocelli, as well as iconic numbers from Broadway & West End favourites like Les Miserables and Miss Saigon.

TRIBUTE SHOW

The Australian Bee Gees Show

The Australian Bee Gees are returning to Geelong in 2025!

After 24 years and over 6,500+ performances in over 55+ countries, The Australian Bee Gees Show is the toast of Las Vegas. The show has been in residence at Excalibur Resort & Casino on the Las Vegas Strip since February 2011 and has been voted twice, The Best Tribute Show in Las Vegas. The Australian Bee Gees Show also tours Worldwide throughout the year.

TRIBUTE SHOW

Recently honoured by Mayor Carolyn Goodman, the Mayor of the City of Las Vegas with the Proclamation of THE AUSTRALIAN BEE GEES SHOW DAY on July 7th, for their dedication and contributions to the City and People of Las Vegas.

The show features a chronology of the greatest hits from the wonderful music of the Brothers Gibb, including More Than A Woman, Night Fever, Stayin’ Alive and How Do You Mend A Broken Heart, just to name a few.

The Australian Bee Gees Show have captured the look, the sound and the personality that defines one of the most successful and adored acts in musical history. For one night only, be a part of the magic that is, The Australian Bee Gees Show.

Tickets are on sale now!

Performances Thu, 03 Apr 202508:00pm

Ticket prices

TICKETS

Chris Connor

- Elvis - Live In Concert

UK,

In 2025, after a sold our 2024 tour, Chris Connor embarks on his biggest Australian tour ever, gracing all major capital cities with a spectacular tribute to the one and only King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.

Known for his uncanny resemblance and electrifying performances, Chris Connor brings Elvis Presley back to life on stage like never before.

With his dynamic voice, charismatic stage presence, and impeccable attention to detail, Chris Connor delivers a concert experience that will leave you breathless.

Join us for an unforgettable evening as Chris Connor pays homage to the legend who revolutionized music and continues to inspire generations.

Don’t miss your chance to witness this incredible tribute. Tickets are on sale now!

Performances Fri, 04 Apr 20250 7:30pm

Direct from the

Chris Connor is bringing his Elvis Concert Tour to Geelong!

“Anime Character Illustration Workshop

for Tweens” with Kaz McGlynn - 8-12yrs

Anime Character Illustration Workshop

In this 8-week workshop, you’ll learn the essential skills to create your very own anime style character, starting with the fundamentals of drawing the face and building up to a full-body form. Each week, you’ll develop new techniques as you work toward your final masterpiece on canvas, incorporating mixed media and paint to bring your character to life. Perfect for anime fans and aspiring artists looking to expand their creative skillset.

North Bellarine International

Women’s Day 2025

Join us for afternoon tea, and the presentation of the 2025 Monica Hayes Award for Women.

Our guest speaker for 2025 is Jenny Taing-Sheehy. Jenny is a Partner at KHQ Lawyers where she leads the financial service practice.

Bookings essential

When:06 March 2025, 02:30 PM - 04:30 PM

Where: Scotchmans Hill Winnery Wadawurrung Country, 190 Scotchmans Rd, Drysdale Victoria 3222

Contact: Marisa

Email: northbellarineiwd@gmail.com

Website: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1331487

Over the eight weeks, young creatives will:

• Experiment with different styles and techniques

• Practice drawing characters and environments

• Play with colour, shading, and composition

• Build confidence in their creative skills

Ticketing

This workshop is perfect for young creatives who love to draw and want to explore new ways to express their creativity.

ENROL HERE:

https://www.bluebirdfoundationinc.org.au/ workshops/animeillustrationtween

When

Every Tuesday of every week from 04 February 2025 to 25 March 2025, 04:00 PM - 05:00 PM

Where

Bluebird House

Wadawurrung Country, 51 Carr Street, South Geelong

Contact:Sarah

Email: sarahmoore@bluebirdfoundationinc.org.au

Associated organisation: Bluebird Foundation Inc.

Website: https://www.bluebirdfoundationinc.org.au/ workshops/animeillustrationtween

https://www.facebook.com/BluebirdFoundationInc/ https://www.instagram.com/bluebird_ foundation/?hl=en

LOCAL EVENTS

Geelong Canoe Club: Kayaking4Kids - Term 1 Paddle Program 2025

Geelong Canoe Club’s Kayaking4Kids program is back for Term 1 2025 with an eight-week paddle course. Participants will be introduced to the sport of paddling in a fun and safe environment, using the Paddle Australia Paddle Power program.

The Kayaking4Kids Term 4 Program is suitable for children aged 8 - 15 years. Participants do not require previous experience paddling, however, they need to be able to swim short distances. Return participants or those from a holiday program will be further challenged in their paddling and leadership skills.

All instructors are qualified with Paddle Australia, have current Working With Children Checks, and are trained in First Aid.

The program will run on Mondays between 4:30pm and 6:00pm over eight weeks, from Monday 3 February to Monday 24 March 2025. Register here

When

Various dates from 3 February 2025 to 24 March 2025

festival of sports

Get batting, kicking, rolling, stretching, jumping, skipping, bowling...and everything in between at the Festival of Sport 2025.

In its short history, the Festival of Sport has become a favourite on the Geelong events calendar with an array of familyfriendly activities and entertainment.

Celebrate the diversity of sport in our region, active recreation and healthy lifestyles with opportunities to ‘come and try’ something new.

Contact Maree Abate

Email:kayaking4kids.geelong@gmail.com

Website:https://paddleaustralia.justgo.com/ Workbench/i/r/public/EventsAndBookingsPublic/ details/81E2ACA4417937D5E1329475B52280B0DE1E9B68

Enjoy a food truck bite for dinner and be entertained by local performers.

The Festival of Sport brings its unique brand of fun and community connection to Geelong’s iconic, Kardinia Park on Friday 7th March 2025, from 5pm.

The twilight festival will feature activities inside GMHBA Stadium, in the Barwon Regional Cricket Centre, in the Joel Selwood Stand and outside in the new Djilang Plaza.

When 07 March 2025, 05:00 PM - 08:00 PM

Where

GMHBA Stadium, Kardinia Park Wadawurrung Country, Moorabool Street

Contact Kirsten Blake

Email: kirsten.blake@kardiniapark.vic. gov.au

Phone: +61 427 067 199

Associated organisation: Kardinia Park Stadium Trust

Website: https://www.kardiniapark.vic. gov.au/

https://www.instagram.com/ kardiniapark/

Bellarine Agricultural Show

The annual Bellarine Agricultural Show is a traditional country show and it’s got something for everyone...!

The Bellarine Agricultural Show provides an important forum for the rural community to gather together to showcase their wares, share their skills and educate the wider community. A prime example of this is the extensive array of produce, art and handcrafts on display throughout the pavilions.

An opportunity for young children to discover farm animals and see farm machinery as well as participate in events such as:

• Gumboot toss competition

• Horse competition

• The Kid’s Trail

Enjoy the live entertainment, watch various demonstrations from sheep-shearing to lace-making.

When: 09 March 2025, 09:00 AM - 03:30 PM

Where: Portarlington Recreation Reserve

Wadawurrung Country, Boat Road, Portarlington VIC 3223

Contact: Jenny Banks

Email: bellarineshow@gmail.com

Geelong Boat Show

Website: www.bellarineshow.com.au

Whether you’re a boating enthusiast, a thrill seeker, or just love the marine lifestyle, this is an event you won’t want to miss!

Explore the latest boating and marine brands and experience the thrill of offshore super-boat racing in this action packed show at the Royal Geelong Yacht Club.

When

Daily from 15 March 2025 to 16 March 2025, 10:00am - 06:00pm

Where

Royal Geelong Yacht Club

Wadawurrung Country, 25 Eastern Beach Rd, Geelong VIC 3220

Contact: Associated organisation: Boating Industry Association of Victoria

Website: https://www.geelongboatshow.com.au

Cats and Dogs All at Sea

AHOY, PET LOVERS! Do you have a water loving dog or a seafaring pet?

The National Wool Museum is seeking photographs of your adventurous furry friends for a digital display as part of ‘Cats and Dogs All at Sea’ exhibition.

All submissions will in the running to win one of five family memberships!

SUBMIT YOUR PHOTOS

Cats and Dogs All at Sea

Cats and dogs have been cherished on board ships for as long as people have made sea voyages. In a life from which children and families are usually missing, and are often very much missed, pets provide a focus for emotions and affection.

Sydney photographer Sam Hood went on board countless ships between 1900 and the 1950s. He took hundreds of photographs of crew members for souvenirs of their visit or to send home to families. This selection of photographs shows how much pets meant to many seafarers. We do not know who most of the people are –detailed records have not survived. But their attachment to their little shipmates is very apparent.

Produced by Australian National Maritime Museum

When Daily from 14 February 2025 to 20 July 2025, 10am - 05:00pm

Where National Wool Museum

Wadawurrung Country, 26-32 Moorabool Street, Geelong VIC 3220

Join us at the Norlane ARC Auditorium for the Northern Nights Festival!

Enjoy a night of live music, community performances, food trucks and market stalls.

Entry is free*, so bring your friends and family to enjoy great entertainment and yummy food. Support local vendors, discover unique products and make the most of this community event in a vibrant festival setting.

• Headline Act: Taylor Henderson

• Entertainment:

Find a list of entertainment announced here soon!

• Stallholders and Food Trucks: Find a list of participating vendors announced here soon!

Follow Swim Sport & Leisure on Instagram @ SwimSportGeelong or Norlane ARC on Facebook for event reminders and highlights!

*Free entry to Northern Nights Festival. Casual gym, group exercise and aquatic entry fees apply.

When: 21 March 2025, 04:00 PM - 08:00 PM

Where: Norlane ARC Wadawurrung Country, 1-9 Cox Road, Norlane VIC 3214

Everlasting Seascapes Art Exhibition

In Everlasting Seascapes group exhibition, five artists bring you their own unique collections of memories, impressions, traces of experiences of time and place through multidisplinary art practices exploring local environment within our inter-connected worlds.

Inspired by Barwon Heads as a very special place surrounded by vast coastlines and the Barwon river estuary, on the Bellarine Peninsula, traditionally known as lands of Wadawurrung people of the Kulin Nation, rich in natural diversity of inter-connected worlds.

Enter into a space of wonder and retreat from hustle and bustle of daily life and busy streets.

Explore artworks inspired by local natural environment and informed by its fragility through evocative sculptural creations by Britt Silvester.

Follow the trail of textured shell mosaic wall works and ceramic frames by Madeleine Thornton-Smith, featuring an engaging art practice exploring shells as an archetypal symbol of new life in many cultures, while also challenging the hierarchy that exists between art and craft in Western art.

Discover everlasting light and colour of local seascapes within vibrant oil paintings by Sara Leanne Perry, deeply inspired by the rich tradition of Impressionism, seeking to capture the fleeting beauty of natural world.

Sense the serenity of the local seascapes in Karen Williamson’s photography, influenced by her love for the ocean, capturing the understated beauty of the Australian landscapes with a refined minimalistic approach.

Experience the meditative moments surrounded by pastel horizons in ‘small miracles’ expanded painting installation by Katia Ksr before your journey to your next destination.

You are welcome to meet the artists at the opening night on Thursday 6th of March at Barwon Heads Arts Hub from 6pm until 8pm or visit anytime to view the exhibition during opening hours.

When

Various dates from 6 March 2025 to 15 March 2025

Where

Barwon Heads Arts Hub Wadawurrung Country, 5 Clifford Parade, Barwon Heads, Victoria, 3227

Contact Katia

Email: katia.ksr@hotmail.com

Associated organisation: Barwon Heads Arts Council

Website: https://www.bhac.org.au

https://www.facebook.com/barwonheadsartscouncil https://www.instagram.com/barwonheadsartscouncil/

Club Italia Family Discos

Bring the entire family and dance the night away! Each disco has its own fun theme.

When 08 March 2025

Contact Antonella Fiorenza

Email: info@clubitalia.com.au

Phone: +61 3 5250 2349

Associated organisation: Club Italia

Website: http://www.clubitalia.com.au

https://www.instagram.com/clubitalia_geelonginc/ https://www.facebook.com/clubitaliageelong/

Leopold Early Years Shopping Centre Pop Up

Calling all parents of babies and young children!

We’d love to invite you to our Shopping Centre Pop-Up where you can learn about the Early Years Services that the City of Greater Geelong is able to offer you.

We provide many services for families. Including childcare, playgroups, youth services, education and health and wellbeing.

Come chat with us, and find out how we can support you on your parenting journey.

See you there!

When: 20 March 2025, 09:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Where Gateway Plaza

Wadawurrung Country, 621/659 Bellarine Hwy, Leopold VIC 3224

Cost: This is a free event

Facilities: Children’s activities

Contact Email: childrensevents@geelongcity.vic.gov.au

Associated organisation: City of Greater Geelong

Website: https://www.geelongaustralia.com.au/family/ default.aspx

https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100069024325106

Head of Schoolgirls’ regatta (HoSG) is a 3-day regatta, on Friday 14, Saturday 15 and Sunday 16 March, located on the Barwon River, Geelong.

This year, HoSG celebrates 41 years of schoolgirl rowing. The event attracts up to 2,400 athletes, 8,000 spectators, and hosts 500 races, distances of either 1,500m or 1,000m, across the 3 days.

The carnival atmosphere can be felt on both the North and South sides of the Barwon River.

This is a free and public event however traffic restrictions will apply.

When

Daily from 14 March 2025 to 16 March 2025

Contact Linda Skidmore

Email: linda@rowingvictoria.asn.au

Phone: +61 408 398 975

Associated organisation: Rowing Victoria Website: https://rowingmanager.com/ regattas/6494/ Follow us:

https://www.instagram.com/rowing_victoria https://linktr.ee/rowingvictoria

IRONMAN 70.3 Geelong is a long standing multi-day triathlon event consisting of a world class Sport & Lifestyle Expo, an IRONKIDS triathlon or swim/run event, and the main IRONMAN 70.3 Geelong race open to Professional athletes through to beginner Age Group athletes.

Geelong will play host for the 15th anniversary of this race in 2025 which will include the first race of the global Pro Series calendar.

When

Daily from 21 March 2025 to 23 March 2025

Where

Steampacket Gardens and Eastern Beach

Wadawurrung Country, Steampacket Gardens Wadawurrung Country, Eastern Beach, Geelong VIC 3220

Contact: The IRONMAN Group

Email: geelong@ironman.com

Phone: 1300 761 384

Associated organisation: The IRONMAN Group Website: https://www.ironman.com/im703-geelong Follow us: https://www.facebook.com/IM703Geelong https://www.instagram.com/ironman70.3geelong/

Geelong Disability & WorkAbility Expo

The Geelong Disability & WorkAbility Expo brings together disability specific products and services, as well as providing employment options to people in the disability community – all under one roof as an integrated Expo.

The Geelong Disability Expo brings together a wide range of product and service providers to help people live their best life, and also features a range of informative and interactive presentations delivered by industry experts and advocates and all-ability entertainment.

The Geelong WorkAbility Expo is designed to connect you with employers and support services, provide practical workshops to get you workplace ready, and offer valuable resources to support your journey to employment.

Expo accessible features: Auslan Interpreters, live captioning at our stage, quiet time Saturday 15th March 9am-10am, service animal friendly with watering station, accessible venue facilities, drop off zone and accessible parking.

Jump the entry queues by registering your attendance for the free Geelong Disability & WorkAbility Expo on Friday 14th and Saturday 15th March 2025 at Geelong Arena. Get organised with the Expo Guide that will give you the lowdown on parking, exhibitors, floor plan, and the stage and entertainment schedule.

When: Daily from 14 March 2025 to 15 March 2025, 09:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Email: events@impactinstitute.com.au

The Lara Big Band invites you to join us for An Evening with The Lara Big Band—a night of soulful tunes, swinging rhythms, and a musical journey that spans different eras and styles. This special event will take place on Saturday 15 March at 7.30pm, at the Bisinella Community Centre, 73 Buckingham St, Lara

Our talented local musicians will bring their passion and expertise to the stage, making it a night to remember. In addition to the fantastic music, we’ll have drinks and a sausage sizzle, ensuring you can enjoy great food and refreshments throughout the evening.

This event also serves as a fundraiser to help The Lara Big Band purchase critical new equipment to support our growth and continue delivering high-quality performances. Your attendance will make a significant difference, and we can’t wait to share this special night with you.

The Blues Train

Welcome to the Legendary Blues Train, Australia’s Unique Music Experience!

Experience a mini music festival on a steam train as you travel along the scenic heritage Bellarine Railway.

Enjoy a fresh Blues inspired meal as you prepare to journey through the carriages and party the night away with 4 amazing live Blues & Roots entertainers.

When

Various dates from 11 January 2025 to 24 May 2025

06:30PM - 11:30PM

Where

Queenscliff Railway Station

Wadawurrung Country, 20 Symonds St, Queenscliff, Victoria

Cost

Admit one: $160.00

Contact: The Blues Train

Email: hello@thebluestrain.com.au

Phone: +61 1300 885 993

Website: https://www.thebluestrain.com.au/

TICKETS

When 15 March 2025, 07:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Contact: The Lara Big Band Inc.

Email: hello@larabigband.org

Phone: +61 427 294 197

Associated organisation: The Lara Big Band Inc.

Website: https://www.trybooking.com/CYTNO

Avalon Australian International Airshow 2025

Join us for three days of breathtaking flying displays featuring both military and civil aircraft, get up close and personal with the aircraft on ground and meet the teams that fly them!

WHAT’S NEW?

Get ready for improved transport options, upgraded flight line viewpoints, and even more entertainment to make your Avalon experience better than ever.

FLIGHT

LINE VIEWING – YOU SPOKE, WE LISTENED

Get right up close to feel the rumble and smell the jet fuel, flight line viewing is back!

INTRODUCING... PARK & RIDE

Two locations, one easy service. For an event first, we are introducing a Park & Ride option for Avalon 2025, offering convenient transportation from two locations. The Geelong Park & Ride is designed for local Geelongbased attendees, while the Melbourne Park & Ride is suitable for those Geelong bound and provides a seamless experience with just a 4-minute bus ride from the carpark to the event.

BOOK YOUR PARKING WITH YOUR TICKET

For the first time, pre-book your onsite parking or park & ride spot at the same time you secure your airshow tickets. Fees apply for all onsite parking and can only be purchased via Ticketek.

ENTERTAINMENT FOR ALL AGES

Facility improvements across the site means a lot more opportunity for fun! You won’t know where to look with exciting aircraft announcements in the works and new entertainment acts on the ground. Don’t forget about free carnival rides for children young and old! Do not miss the Friday Night Alight show which is unique to Avalon, an experience that you will never forget!

Getting here

Review all travel options to plan your trip to the airshow here With a limited number of spots available in all parking options, attendees are encouraged to pre-purchase to secure your parking space when purchasing your tickets.

Ticketing

Tickets are on sale with limited availability, get in quick! You can purchase tickets here

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you may need to know when visiting the Airshow is here.

Keep up to date with all the latest information by signing up to the mailing list.

Exhibitor and Trade Show

(Not open to members of the public, runs from 25 - 28 March 2025)

Avalon Australian International Airshow 2025 is a global business, defence and public event, attracting senior civil aviation, air transport, aerospace and defence industry, military and government decision-makers from around the world.

Avalon is the platform for industry at all levels to promote to customers, partners and suppliers, providing unrivalled access to the region’s aviation, aerospace, defence and space community. For more information, click here

When

Daily from 28 March 2025 to 30 March 2025

Where

Avalon Airport

Wadawurrung Country, 156 Pousties Road, Point Wilson

Email: airshow@amda.com.au

Phone: +61 3 5282 0500

Website: https://airshow.com.au/

Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/ AustralianInternationalAirshow/ https://www.facebook.com/ AustralianInternationalAirshow

Join Alliance Française de Geelong for the screening of two Classic French Films over consecutive Saturday evenings under the stars at The Heights, Newtown.

Louis Malle’s iconic film “Au Revoir les Enfants” will be screened on Saturday 15 March. The following week the animated West African folktale “Kirikou et la Sorcière” will be screened on Saturday 22 March.

Bring along a picnic to enjoy on the lawn before the movie! Chairs and rugs will be provided for seating. Soft drinks, wine, lollies and popcorn will be available for purchase throughout the evening.

Join us for a delightful dinner nestled amongst the orchard of Tuckerberry Hill Farm, featuring local Bellarine produce prepared by chef, James BondKennedy and local musicians.

Menu to be announced, but will feature family-style charcoal-grilled lamb and vegetables, platters featuring local produce, and a sweet, unique dessert. Included drink on arrival, followed by local wine and beer available for purchase.

BOOKINGS

When 21 March 2025, 05:30 PM - 09:00 PM

Where

Tuckerberry Hill Wadawurrung Country, 31-79 Becks Road, Drysdale

Cost

• Admit one: $85.00

Includes food and welcome drink

• Child: $30.00 child up to and including 10yo

Contact: Christine Lean

Email: tuckerberry@bigpond.com

Phone: +61 409 531 918

Associated organisation: Melbourne Food and Wine Festival 25

Website: http://www.tuckerberry.com.au

Buy tickets online and save or purchase a 2-film package and save even more!

Presented in French language with English subtitles.

Proudly Presented by Alliance Française de Geelong in Association with the National Trust of Australia (Victoria)

For details and tickets, visit www.trybooking.com/CZDBW

Contact: Alliance Francaise de Geelong

Email: alliancefrancaisedegeelong@yahoo.com

Associated organisation: Alliance Francaise de Geelong, The National Trust Australia (Victoria)

Website: http://www.afgeelong.com.au

The First Look: Opening Round at the Gabba

A week out from the start of the 2025 season, take a first look at everything you need to know about Geelong’s Opening Round clash against Brisbane.

It is finally here, football is officially back and the Cats are set to kick off the season in the opening match next Thursday night.

Geelong will head to the Gabba for a blockbuster clash against the reigning premiers, looking to dethrone the Brisbane Lions in the club’s Opening Round debut.

Tuesday night provided the Cats with a perfect final pre-season hit-out, as they finished off their preparations against Essendon at GMHBA Stadium.

As the team prepares for next week’s season opener, take a look at everything you need to know in the build up.

KEY DETAILS

• 2025 AFL Season - Opening Round

• Brisbane Lions v Geelong Cats

• The Gabba

• Thursday 6 March, 7.50pm (AEDT)

WHERE TO WATCH

For Cats fans looking to watch their team from home, most broadcasters will be covering the Opening Round match live from the Gabba.

Channel 7 will cover the match live and free, with their coverage starting from 7.00pm AEDT ahead of the opening bounce at 7.50pm.

Fox Footy and Kayo will also be broadcasting the match live, while those listening to radio will be able to tune into K rock for all match coverage.

2025 AFL Broadcast Guide

HOW TO GET TICKETS

Geelong fans in Brisbane looking to attend the match still have a chance to secure tickets, which can be purchased through Ticketmaster.

Follow the link here to secure your spot at the Gabba for the Opening Round.

Alternatively, Cats supporters can also secure an Interstate Membership for the 2025 season, providing access to tickets and a number of other member perks.

Follow the link here to secure your Interstate Membership for 2025: https://membership.geelongcats.com. au/package/interstate

AAMI COMMUNITY SERIES MATCH STATS

Jack Bowes was a standout for the Cats on Tuesday night, finishing the game with 31 disposals, five clearances, 721 metres gained and a beautiful goal from outside 50.

Following a strong performance against Hawthorn in the match simulation, Gryan Miers continued his hot form against the Bombers accumulating 30 possessions, nine marks and a goal.

Jeremy Cameron (23 disposals, two goals) was everywhere, Mitch Knevitt (22 disposals, four clearances) impressed and Jack Henry (13 intercept possessions) anchored the defensive unit brilliantly.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Geelong: Tyson Stengle

Stengle has impressed throughout the pre-season, performing strongly for the Indigenous All Stars (16 disposals, seven score involvements) and followed up with another solid showing on Tuesday night (16 disposals, two goals).

The crafty forward was brilliant in the Cats last appearance at the Gabba (2024Round Six), finishing with 17 disposals, two goals and five score involvements in wet and slippery conditions.

Always able to make the most of his opportunities, look for Stengle to have a big impact next Thursday and play an influential role for the Cats.

Brisbane: Lachie Neale

It goes without saying that Lachie Neale is one of Brisbane’s most important players, but that was certainly evident in last year’s Preliminary Final at the MCG.

Neale finished the match with 31 disposals, but crucially he also won 12 clearances which was double the next best player on the ground.

The Lions star averages over six clearances per game in 18 appearances against Geelong, something the Cats will need to rectify next week.

VENUE HISTORY

Despite being a notoriously tough ground to play at, Geelong hold a reasonably strong record at the Gabba winning 16 of 28 games (57.1%) across their AFL history.

In more recent history, the Cats record at the venue gets even better winning nine of their last 13 matches in Brisbane (69.2%), dating back to 2014.

The last meeting between the two teams at the venue came in round six last year, with Geelong securing a 26 point win in rainy conditions.

AFLW Pocket Profile: Eliza McNamara

THERE’S no shortage of talent in the AFLW competition, but there’s no shortage of personality either.

As we wrapped up the 2024 AFLW season, AFL.com.au posed some curly questions to a handful of the competition’s best players.

Next up is Melbourne midfielder Eliza McNamara, who’s known for her hard running and tireless efforts.

From her job outside of football to her greatest fear, some of the answers did surprise us.

But there’s more to Eliza than her footy ability.

What’s something no one really knows about you?

I prefer flavoured water over plain water.

Steak night or parma night?

Chicken schnitzel night.

What’s your coffee order?

Large skinny cap with extra chocolate on top.

Dolphin or shark?

Dolphin.

What’s your middle name?

Mary – it’s also my Mum’s middle name and Nan’s first name.

What’s your hometown?

Melbourne.

What’s your greatest fear?

Probably going bankrupt.

Drive solo to training or carpool?

I drive solo but always have Zara and Michelle from the Shameless Podcast talking to me.

Best non-footy lesson you ever learnt? If a door opens, walk through it.

Shoutout your ‘local’ (pub, bar, cafe, park etc).

Coffee Ministry for coffee and Rutherford’s Corner.

Best friend at the club (CAN CHOOSE ONLY ONE).

Everyone.

Favourite assistant coach/other mentor at the club?

Favourite mentor would be Mitch the physio, they have helped and continue to help me a lot with my body.

Go-to gameday hairstyle?

It’s hard nowadays with my bob. I’m still experimenting, but I’m currently trying a petite ponytail with ribbons.

Do you still have a job outside of football?

Yes, I work at a clinic as a strength and conditioning coach and also at a primary school as the athletics coordinator.

Favourite non-footy sporting moment?

I think it was year 11, and we won our school netball grand final in overtime.

Who’s your celebrity doppelganger? Adele.

What’s your favourite place to grab a coffee or dinner near training?

Cheeky Monkey or Sloane Ranger, both do good extra chocolate on my cap.

Recommend a movie or book The Trauma Cleaner by Sarah Krasnostein.

Eliza McNamara warms up ahead of week four, 2024. Picture: AFL Photos

‘I had to learn to walk again’: Eliza’s road back from spinal injury Melbourne winger Eliza McNamara opens up about the serious spinal injury she suffered in 2022,and her journey back to the playing field

Eliza McNamara gets a kick away during week eight,2024.Picture: AFL Photos

(Front row L-R) Georgia Campbell, Eliza McNamara, Maeve Chaplin and (back row L-R) Tyla Hanks, Kate Hore and Sinead Goldrick pose for a photo at the W Awards on November 25, 2024. Picture: AFL Photos

Eliza McNamara flies for a mark during week three,2024.Picture: AFL Photos

Owen Odigie Extends for 2025 NBL1 South Season

Owen Odigie has officially extended his run with Geelong United into NBL1 South season 2025.

Putting pen to paper for another year after an injury hampered 2024 season, Owen will be looking to build on the form he began to establish after returning from a month on the shelf in the middle of the 2024 campaign.

In his 12 outings last year, Owen averaged 5.83 points, 1.33 assists and 3.5 rebounds per game, including a 14 point effort against Waverley in the teams’ last game on home floor for the season.

“It’s great to sign on for another year in Geelong,” Owen said. “I’m excited to get the season underway, especially with the roster that has been put together.”

Speaking on said roster, Owen believes there’s big things in store for the team this year, “We’ve got most of the core guys coming back, along with a few new additions who add a lot of value to the team,” Owen said. “I’m eager to see us all gel together and build up to what should be a fun season.

Geelong United Club Awards Night

On Tuesday night, Geelong United held it’s first ever awards night to celebrate the efforts our our inaugural team.

A fantastic crowd gathered at the home of A Day On The Green in Victoria, the picturesque Mount Duneed Estate to witness the awards ceremony, which saw star Import Haley Jones take out the inaugural Club MVP award.

“It’s really great to get that respect from the coaches,” Haley said regarding her win. “This whole season has done a lot for me –Confidence on the court, just getting my flow back and feeling like myself on the court again. I think a variety of things are going to help me now transition back into the WNBA.” To read more here

What’s Happening...

Nominate your 2025

Westfield Local Hero now

Help us to award $30,000 of community grants at Westfield Geelong by nominating your local hero today.

Do you know someone who is a changemaker, life saver, volunteer or gives back to their community? Recognise them today by nominating them to be a Westfield Local Hero.

One successful hero at Westfield Geelong will be awarded a $20,000 grant for the organisation they represent, and two finalists will each receive a $5,000 grant for their organisation.

To nominate, tell us who your local hero is and how they create positive impact for your community or environment by Thursday 13 March.

It’s easy to recognise and nominate your local hero.

Westfield Local Heroes is a recognition and awards program that shines a spotlight on the individuals and organisations in Australia and New Zealand who make a positive impact to their local community or environment.

Nominations close on Thursday 13 March at 7pm AEDT.

How it works:

1. Nominate

Community members nominate their Westfield Local Hero by filling in an online nomination form.

2. Vote

Nominations are assessed by our selection panels against set criteria to create a shortlist of three finalists per Westfield destination. These three finalists per Westfield destination are promoted, and communities are invited to vote for their preferred hero.

3. Celebrate

The successful Westfield Local Hero with the highest number of community votes for each Westfield destination will be announced and awarded a $20,000 grant for the organisation they represent. Finalists receive a $5,000 grant for their organisation.

Ifyouhavebeennominatedintheprogramandhave any questions, contact us at westfieldlocalheroes@ scentregroup.com.

For full details of the program such as criteria, FAQs and Terms and Conditions, visit the Westfield Local Heroes website

Need inspiration?

Read the stories of last year’s Westfield Local Heroes and finalists on the News for Better page.

Watch the videos below to see the impact that a Westfield Local Heroes grant can have on your nominee’s work.

Westfield Local Hero Alumni

We continue to connect and support our Westfield Local Hero Alumni and community partners through our Westfield Community Seminars. Our next seminar is on Wednesday 19th February on the topic of, Funding Your Future: top tips for successful grants and awards applications. If you’d like to attend this seminar online please submit an expression of interest here

What’s Happening...

Time for some colouring in fun!

geelong waterfront

The Geelong Waterfront is one of Australia’s most stunning waterfronts. Having started from humble beginnings when Geelong was founded as a port in 1836, the Waterfront has now attracted a series of prestigious awards.

This cosmopolitan and vibrant area is a hive of activity with restaurants and cafes, beautiful landscaped gardens, attractions and public art, all with amazing views of Corio Bay. It also provides a full events calendar, tourism, education and accommodation services:

Our historic Carousel, Poppy Kettle playground and youth activities area is great for kids of all ages. See Geelong’s famous bollards.

There are plenty of possibilities to explore and view the Waterfront: take a ride on a Harley Davidson motorcycle, ride the trackless train if you prefer a more leisurely look around, check out the view from the air in a helicopter or take a boat cruise along Geelong’s spectacular Waterfront.

A visit to Geelong is not complete if you haven’t seen our spectacular waterfront.

poppy kettle playground

Situated on the Geelong waterfront, this park is jam-packed with awesome play elements, has beautiful sea views, has picnic facilities, and is a short walk away from cafes and other Geelong attractions. It makes for a beautiful day out for all ages, and is certainly a must-do in summer.

The interactive play equipment include a multi-coloured tubular slide that winds down the hill, a dragon emerging from the ground, a timber tower, swing, boat (atop the sand pit), bouncers, and a unique pyramid climbing net.

The playground is also well known for the interactive Poppy Kettle water fountains and miniature statues, situated amongst a rock area, which seem to be the main attraction for little ones. In fact, this feature was inspired by a children’s book written by local author, Robert Ingpen, and gives the park a magical quality. During the summer months the slide area has additional water play features.

A trip to this playground can be combined with a walk or bike ride along Geelong’s famous Bollard walk or a visit to The Carousel. Geelong’s Youth Activity Precinct is located a stones’ throw away from the playground, and features basketball ring, seating areas, open multipurpose area, and skate ramps.

This is one of the most perfectly positioned playgrounds for so many reasons.

skate park geelong

Skate parks in Geelong have a variety of facilities available for skate boarders, bladers and BMX bike riders including quarter pipes, handrails, funboxes, vert ramps, pyramids, banked ramps, and stairsets.

We strongly advise the wearing of helmets and padding when using our Skate Parks, and enforce compulsory wearing of helmets at all skate events.

Looking to get into skating or want to know more about skating in Geelong?

Young people interested in joining in activities can call the Skate Program Worker on 03 5272 5272.

We have more skate parks per capital than any other municipality in Australia.

cunningham pier

The Pier Geelong offers uninterrupted bay views stretching from Rippleside to Point Wilson and the Geelong city skyline. It provides a large impressive area catering for small events to up to 800 guests seated or 1000 guests’ cocktail style.

The venue also housed City Quarter Bar a trendy lounge bar on Level 1. With loft ceilings, three decks, comfortable lounges, fireplace, gourmet pizzas and world inspired tapas, CQ is perfect for hosting engagements, birthday parties, hen’s high teas or pre or post event drinks.

Also housed within this iconic building is Wah Wah Gee, a funky Asian-inspired restaurant, offering an extensive menu leaving you feeling satisfied and content in an exciting atmosphere. Enjoy our delicious cuisine with floor to ceiling views of Geelong’s bay - you’ll feel like you’re floating on water.

Geelong’s iconic waterfront function venue is perfect for every occasion. Experience the most unique function venue in Geelong.

the old paper mills geelong

Geelong’s best kept secret The Fyansford Paper Mill is set on the Barwon River and overlooks the picturesque Buckley Falls. It was constructed in the 1870s and is one of the oldest paper mills in Australia.

The site is being transformed into a food, beverage, arts and cultural precinct, located within 10 minutes of Geelong’s CBD. With just under 5,000m2 of building space, the Mill is home to over 15 businesses, including a winery, café, gallery, yoga studio, homewares shop and escape room. There are also a number of small independent artists who have private studios across the site.

Visit the Fyansford Paper Mill once of Geelong’s historic places to visits. Discover all kinds of food, arts, activities, as well as our great history, see what’s on in Geelong here.

Fyansford Paper Mill one of Geelong’s most historic places to visit.

Geelong arts & Cultural precinct

The area between Johnstone Park and Ryrie Street to the west of the shopping and business district of Geelong is known as the Geelong Arts Precinct. This area is also home to the Geelong Town Hall, which is the main council offices of the City of Greater Geelong.

The city is currently seeking funds for a radical overhaul of the precinct where the current facilities will receive a substantial redevelopment. There are also plans for some pretty innovative landscaping and street works which will bring the area into line with the rest of our recently rejuvenated city. This massive renovation will make the precinct one of the best arts and cultural precincts in the state. The scale of the project put the cost of the whole redevelopment in the vicinity of over 130 million dollars.

The Geelong Art Gallery is attached to the Geelong Town Hall, and it houses a magnificent and varied collection of artworks. Two paintings in particular are extremely special to our Gallery, first being the “View of Geelong” which was painted by Eugene von Guerad in 1856. This painting was bought recently by the museum from legendary English musical creator Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber. “A Bush Burial” by Fredrick McCubbin, painted in 1890 is another of the gallery’s most precious works.

Geelong Arts Centre, formerly the Geelong Performing Arts Centre, is a performing arts, functions and events venue located in Geelong, Victoria, Australia.

western beach geelong

In those days there was an unwritten rule designating Western Beach for men’s bathing and Eastern Beach for women. But some ‘dastardly gentlemen’ would disregard the agreement scaring respectable women away.

Today the area is rarely used for swimming, but it’s still a popular stretch of foreshore connecting Rippleside to the rest of the Waterfront.

Here you’ll find the Boat House restaurant (Geelong’s best spot for fish and chips), the Poppykettle Playground, a designated fishing area, and the marvelous Western Beach Boardwalk.

Curving out over the water the boardwalk has well-placed seats where you can sit back and watch the sea birds duck dive for fish. In the early morning, it’s perfect for watching the sun come up over the bay.

People have been swimming, boating, fishing and playing at Western Beach Geelong since the 1840’s

Geelong ripplesside park

Located on the western edge of the Waterfront, Rippleside Park Geelong is a pretty grass-covered foreshore reserve.

Popular with locals, Rippleside is less well-known to tourists who drive past en-route to more popular areas.

The park has magnificent bay views and is particularly appealing to families with young children who love the adventure playground.

The huge wooden structure has ramps, walkways, steps, and plenty of nooks and crannies to explore.

When the kids tire of the playground the reserve has wide-open spaces to run around in. Don’t forget to bring your footy!

Tucked in next to the reserve is tiny Rippleside Beach where you can bask in the sunshine or splash around in the water.

Overlooking the whole area is the bright and spacious Ripples On The Bay cafe. This stunning cafe serves excellent coffee and has huge windows with to-die-for water views.

Other amenities include picnic and barbecue facilities, toilets, and plenty of car parking spaces.

A community built wooden Adventure playground built over six days in 2001 with all the usual ramps, walkways, steps, nooks and crannies to explore.

steampacket gardens geelong

A path on the northern edge connecting the gardens to the bay has seats where you can enjoy the sea breeze and watch the nearby helicopter toing and froing.

On the eastern side you’ll find the Wharfshed Cafe serving yummy meals and to the west sits the delightful historic carousel.

There are some interesting art sculptures dotted around the park. Be sure to check out the Volunteer Rifle Band bollards and The Buoys sculpture, a group of former channel buoys that have been turned into a powerful piece of artwork.

The Geelong Waterfront Makers and Growers market (Steampacket Market) is held here on the first Sunday of each month. This popular market offers local produce, beautiful art and handicrafts, and lots of tasty treats.

Located right beside the water Steampacket Gardens Geelong is a big rectangle of lush lawn that’s perfect for a relaxing picnic or a game of frisbee.

the carousel Geelong

One of only a few in the world this beautifully restored carousel is considered by many to be the best that’s still in use today.

Housed in a modern steel and glass enclosure the pavilion has an old-world carnival atmosphere that’s enhanced by a pipe organ playing Dixieland melodies.

A ride on this enchanting carousel is a magical experience for children of all ages and abilities, with a mobility lift that assists wheelchairs onto the attraction.

Entry into the pavilion is free. Tickets to ride the Carousel are $5.00.

The Carousel Pavilion can be booked for wedding ceremonies, wedding receptions, photo shoots, and private or corporate functions.

Housing a beautifully restored Carousel, this competitively priced, exclusive all-weather venue is available for private hire seven days a week from 3:00pm.

The Carousel Geelong is a rare 1892 Armitage-Herschell hand-carved wooden carousel.

Old geelong Gaol

The Geelong Gaol Museum is housed in the 170-year-old Geelong Gaol, the third oldest prison in Victoria. Opening in 1853 and closing in 1991 it housed male and female prisoners.

Over its history, it has been used as an industrial school for young girls, a hospital gaol and a military detention barracks. It was the site of 6 executions.

Today it houses display illustrating not only the history of the Geelong Gaol but the history of the corrections of Victoria.

It features displays on the Hulks, Colonial Prisons, Executions and Saga Behind the Armour along with some of the prisoner stories who have spent time behind the bluestone walls.

The Geelong Gaol Museum is open on weekends, school holidays and public holidays.

A 19th century gaol which operated from 1853-1991 in the same conditions you see today.

Help the local community know you exist and what sets you a part compared to other aged care facilities, Financial Planners and other providers in the local area.

We have developed Find Aged Care Services (www.findagedcare.services) so you can promote your facilities and services to the general public. You can also place any job vacancies on our website that is available in your facilities.

Layering of Income for Retirement: A Strategic Approach to Securing Your Future

RETIREMENT

By Warren Strybosch

When planning for retirement, it’s essential to consider not just how much money you will need, but also how to structure the sources of income that will support your lifestyle in your later years. The concept of “layering” retirement income is a strategy that involves diversifying and creating multiple streams of income to ensure a stable, reliable, and sustainable financial future. This approach provides flexibility, minimises risk, and enhances the ability to weather financial uncertainties in retirement.

In this article, we will explore what layering of income for retirement is, why it’s beneficial, and how you can create your own layered income strategy.

What is Layering of Income for Retirement?

Layering of income refers to building a combination of different income sources that collectively provide the financial support needed in retirement. Instead of relying on a single income stream, such as Social Security or a pension, retirees use multiple income sources, each coming into play at different stages or circumstances of retirement.

The layers often include a mix of guaranteed income (like pensions or annuities), investment income (such as dividends or interest), and income from personal savings or assets (like rental properties or side businesses). The idea is to spread risk, reduce dependency on any one source of income, and provide flexibility as your financial needs evolve throughout retirement.

Why is Layering Important?

1. Diversification of Risk

Relying on just one income source can be risky. For example, if you depend heavily on the stock market for retirement income, you may experience income fluctuations due to market volatility. Similarly, relying solely on government benefits or pensions might leave you vulnerable to changes in public policy. Layering income sources helps diversify this risk by spreading it across different, often less correlated, financial instruments.

2. Flexibility to Adjust to Life Changes

As you age, your needs and circumstances will change. The type and amount of income you need may vary based on health care costs, lifestyle choices, and inflation. A layered approach allows you to adjust each income source according to your evolving needs, helping you maintain financial security even as unexpected events occur.

3. Maximising Retirement Savings

Layering helps optimise the use of different financial tools, such as tax-deferred accounts, taxable investments, and taxefficient income sources. This can help you minimise taxes over the long term and increase the overall efficiency of your retirement portfolio.

4. Stable Income Throughout Retirement

By layering guaranteed income (like pensions or annuities) with more variable income sources (such as dividends or rental income), you create a balance between predictable cash flow and potentially higher returns. This stability is crucial to ensure that you can maintain your desired lifestyle even during market downturns.

Key Layers of Income for Retirement

Here’s a breakdown of common income layers and how they work together to provide a stable retirement:

1. Government Benefits (e.g., Age Pension in Australia)

Government benefits are often considered a foundational layer of retirement income. While these benefits may not fully cover all living expenses, they provide a guaranteed income stream to help with essential costs. The amount you receive will depend on your work history and age, but it’s usually stable and inflationadjusted, making it a reliable baseline for retirement income.

• Pros: Stable and predictable income.

• Cons: Limited amount; may not cover all living expenses.

2. Annuities

Annuities are a financial product where you pay a lump sum upfront in exchange for a guaranteed income stream for a specified period or for life. Annuities are particularly beneficial for creating a predictable income stream that can last for as long as you live.

• Pros: Guaranteed income, which can help prevent the risk of outliving your savings.

• Cons: Irreversible once purchased, and they may not be the best option if you have other income sources.

3. Rental Income

If you own rental properties, this can be an excellent source of steady income throughout retirement. Rental income can provide consistent cash flow with the added benefit of potential property appreciation over time.

• Pros: Regular, reliable cash flow.

• Cons: Maintenance costs, potential vacancies, and property management concerns

4. Side Business or Freelance Work

Many retirees choose to supplement their income with part-time work, consulting, or freelance activities. This can not only provide a source of income but also keep you engaged and active in retirement.

• Pros: Flexibility and the opportunity to stay mentally and socially engaged.

• Cons: May not provide a reliable or steady income if not consistent.

Creating Your Layered Retirement Income Strategy

1. Start Early The earlier you begin saving and investing for retirement, the more time your money has to grow. Take advantage of tax-deferred accounts and employer matching contributions where available.

2. Diversify Your Sources A diversified approach is key to reducing risk. Relying solely on any one source of income (such as the stock market) may expose you to greater financial risk, so aim to mix stable, guaranteed sources of income with more volatile investment options.

3. Plan for Longevity As life expectancies increase, it’s important to plan for a longer retirement. Make sure your income layers are structured in a way that supports you throughout retirement, with a focus on sustainability rather than short-term gains.

4. Consult a Financial Advisor Creating an optimal layered income strategy requires careful planning and expertise. A financial advisor can help tailor your retirement income strategy to your unique goals and circumstances, ensuring you have a balanced, flexible plan for the future.

Layering income for retirement is a strategic way to ensure financial stability

and flexibility in your later years. By diversifying your income sources, you can minimise risk, maximise returns, and adjust to changing needs throughout retirement. Whether through government benefits, employer-sponsored retirement plans, annuities, investments, or side businesses, a well-layered approach gives you a better chance of enjoying a comfortable, worry-free retirement.

Warren Strybosch Award winning Financial Adviser and Accountant

of the Find Group of Companies

Financial Planning, SMSF, Super, Insurance, Pre-Retirement & Retirement Planning (Financial Planning) are offered via Find Wealth Pty Ltd ACN 140 585 075 t/a Find Wealth, Find Insurance and Find Retirement. Find Wealth Pty Ltd is a Corporate Authorised Representative (No 468091) of Alliance Wealth Pty Ltd ABN 93 161 647 007 (AFSL No. 449221). Part of the (www.centrepointalliance.com.au/fsg/aw).

Warren Strybosch

Authorised Representative (No. 468091) of Alliance Wealth Pty Ltd. Centrepoint Alliance group.

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