Find Geelong December 2024 Edition

COLUMNIST CONTRIBUTORS COLUMNIST

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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.

Follow us on facebook (https://www. facebook.com/findgeelong) so you keep up to date with what we are doing.

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

A Season of Community and Celebration

by Genevieve Brazil

As December approaches, Geelong transforms into a vibrant hub of festive cheer, offering a mix of traditional celebrations and unique local experiences. Christmas in this bayside city is not just a season; it’s a story of community spirit, family traditions, and the joy of summer festivities.

One of Geelong’s most anticipated Christmas attractions is the Waterfront’s sparkling light display. Each year, the Baywalk Bollards come alive with festive decorations, creating a magical trail along the waterfront. Locals and visitors gather to admire the twinkling lights, often enjoying fish and chips by the bay as children race along the paths in excitement.

The famous Floating Christmas Tree, towering over Corio Bay, is another iconic feature. Illuminated with thousands of lights, it serves as a beacon of holiday joy. Accompanied by nightly light shows set to music, the tree draws crowds from across the region. Families often make a tradition of visiting the display, snapping photos to capture the season’s spirit.

The Geelong Christmas Market is a beloved event, offering local crafts, festive treats, and live entertainment. Held in Johnstone Park, the market showcases the creativity of local artisans, with handmade ornaments, candles, and gifts that reflect Geelong’s unique character. For food lovers, stalls serving everything from mince pies to fresh seafood highlight the region’s culinary diversity.

Carols by Candlelight is another cherished tradition. Hosted in various locations, including Eastern Beach Reserve, these evenings bring the community together under the stars. With local choirs, bands, and even appearances by Santa,

the carols are a heartwarming reminder of the joy of togetherness during the holiday season.

Geelong’s parks and attractions play a central role in Christmas celebrations. Adventure Park Geelong embraces the holiday spirit by transforming into a Christmas wonderland. From Santa’s workshop to themed rides, it’s a favorite destination for families. Meanwhile, local libraries and community centers host craft workshops and storytelling sessions, keeping children entertained while fostering creativity.

The city’s Botanic Gardens offer a quieter festive experience. With picnic spots adorned in subtle decorations, families can enjoy a relaxed Christmas outing surrounded by nature. Often, these gatherings are accompanied by backyard cricket games and shared laughter, hallmarks of an Aussie Christmas.

In true Geelong spirit, the festive season is also a time for giving back. Local charities organize toy drives and food hampers to support families in need. Initiatives like “Adopt a Family” encourage residents to spread holiday cheer by providing gifts and essentials. The sense of community is palpable, with volunteers working tirelessly to ensure no one feels left out during this special time.

For many, Christmas Day in Geelong means a relaxed celebration by the beach. Eastern Beach and Barwon Heads are popular spots where families gather for barbecues, beach cricket, and swims in the ocean. The combination of warm summer weather and festive cheer creates a uniquely Australian Christmas atmosphere.

Christmas in Geelong is more than just decorations and festivities—it’s a time to celebrate the city’s strong sense of community. Whether it’s the joy of carols, the sparkle of lights, or the simple pleasure of sharing a meal with loved ones, the season brings people together in meaningful ways.

Geelong Column

Summer is here, bringing an exciting line up of events across the Geelong region for the whole family to enjoy.

On the waterfront, the spectacular Floating Christmas Tree is back for its 11th year.

This year’s tree features 800 lights, more than 15,000 pixels for animations and 30 new digital windows to create vibrant displays that will bathe our waterfront in breathtaking colour.

Shows run every 15 minutes from 8.30pm to midnight until Tuesday 7 January, providing the perfect festive backdrop for your evening stroll.

The festive spirit will take over across the rest of Geelong too, with projections inspired by 60 local kindergarten children to light up City Hall each night while the tree is in town.

See kindness through the eyes of these children thanks to a heartwarming initiative by the City and not-for-profit organisation Meli.

January brings the highly anticipated Festival of Sails, Geelong’s ultimate summer celebration, to our stunning waterfront during the Australia Day long weekend.

As the largest sailing regatta in the Southern Hemisphere, it combines worldclass racing with three days of live music, gourmet food and family-friendly fun.

Expect fireworks, epic performances and activities for all ages, making this festival a highlight of Geelong’s vibrant summer calendar.

From 31 January to 2 February, the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race will celebrate its 10th anniversary with an exciting weekend of cycling.

This world-class race showcases the Bellarine Peninsula, Geelong and the Surf Coast to an estimated global audience of 1.3 million viewers.

The 2023 event generated $17.8 million in economic benefits for Greater Geelong and drew more than 140,000 spectators and participants.

With so much to enjoy this summer, I encourage everyone to explore these incredible events and make the most of our beautiful region.

For more details and a full list of events, visit www.geelongaustralia.com.au/events

By City of Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj

What’s New & Thank you to all

FINANCIAL PLANNER

By Warren Strybosch

As the year is coming to a close, we want to thank all our readers and clients for their continued support. At Find Wealth (which also includes Find Retirement & Find Insurance) we will continue to strive to improve our client experience and be one of the best financial planning firms in Australia. On that note, we are excited to announce that Erryn Langley is a finalist for the first time at the IFA awards (https:// www.ifa.com.au/excellence-awards/ winners/2024-winners-and-finalists) in the category of SMSF Advisor of the Year, and I, Warren Strybosch, am a finalist in 2 individual categories: Client Outcome of the Year & Holistic Advisor of the Year – Vic. The Find Group (representing Find Wealth, Find Accountant, Find Foundation, and Find Network) is a finalist across five (5) categories. Last month I, Warren Strybosch, was listed for the third time in the FS Power 50 as one of the most influential financial advisors in Australia and I recently attended the IFPA awards where I picked up Holistic Advisor of the Year and Australian Financial Practice of the Year. In all, Erryn and I have had a good year, and this could not have been possible without the support of our amazing team and our families.

This month we just want to touch on what is new across the industry as follows:

1. New Aged Care Bill passed

On 25 November, the Aged Care Bill 2024 passed both houses of Parliament and will become law with amendments made by the Senate. The new Act will commence from 1 July 2025.

These changes were mentioned in previous editions under our Aged Care.

Early in the new year, we will delve into the potential impact of these changes from a strategic perspective for our clients looking to access aged care both before and after 1 July 2025.

Note: Warren Strybosch of Find Wealth will be looking to launch their new website www.findagedcare.services in 2025 and from 1st July 2025, will start to provide aged care advice. Watch this space.

2. Increase in maximum published Refundable Accommodation Deposit (RAD)

As part of the Government’s aged care reforms, there is a proposal to allow the maximum published accommodation price that can be charged without seeking approval from the Pricing Authority, to increase from $550,000 to $750,000.

Additionally, the maximum price will then be indexed annually on 1 July each year to CPI.

While the new Aged Care Act will commence from 1 July 2025, the Government has registered a legislative instrument Aged Care (Subsidy, Fees and Payments) Amendment (Maximum Accommodation Payment) Determination 2024 to implement this change to RADs which will come into effect from 1 January 2025.

3. Release of super on compassionate grounds

The ATO recently released statistics pertaining to the early access of super under the Compassionate Grounds condition of release.

The information highlights the popular reasons for access and the likely success of the application, a useful bit of information for clients requesting early access under this condition.

Of particular interest:

• The total dollar amount released under the Compassionate Grounds definition has more than doubled over the past six years

• Medical treatment is by far the largest category for withdrawals, making up 94.5% of applications approved in 2023-24.

• Of the sub-categories under medical treatment, 45% of the approved claims were for dental treatment and 28.6% for weight loss

• Preventing foreclosure or forced sale of a home was the category with the lowest application success rate with only 1,110 approved applications from 12,900 applications received in 2023-24.

The full report is available on the ATO website here

4. 2025 Federal Budget date change

The Australian Federal Budget for 202526 will be handed down on Tuesday 25 March 2025 instead of the usual second Tuesday in May. This is in anticipation of the upcoming Federal Election which must be held on or before 17 May 2025.

Leading up to the election, when Parliament is dissolved, all proposed bills and other business before the House of Representatives and the Senate will expire and will have to be reintroduced in the next Parliament (if applicable).

Again, from everyone at the Find Group which includes Find Wealth, we want to wish you all a happy Christmas and enjoyable time away with your friends and family at this time of year.

Warren Strybosch

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.

WealthisaCorporateAuthorisedRepresentative(No468091)ofAllianceWealthPtyLtdABN93161 647007(AFSLNo.449221).PartoftheCentrepointAlliancegrouphttps://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.

Whilstallcarehasbeentakeninthepreparationofthismaterial,itisbasedonourunderstanding 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.

CONGRATULATIONS!

MASTERING PURPOSEFUL CONVERSATION TO CREATE CHANGE: PART 2

“Setting Your Team Up for Success in the New Year”

LEADERSHIP & TEAM SPECIALIST

By Sally Higoe

Welcome back! In Part 1, we explored how purposeful conversation begins with observation—of yourself and others— and how asking the right questions can keep discussions focused and productive. Now, let’s dive into balancing process and purpose, empowering your team to thrive, and driving accountability through intentional communication.

Process vs. Purpose: Get the Balance Right

In the whirlwind of daily tasks, it’s easy to fall into the trap of focusing solely on processes. When resources are stretched thin due to staff shortages or high turnover, some leaders prioritise “getting the job done” over considering whether the job aligns with the company’s higher purpose.

But to truly drive results, tasks must be linked to a larger goal. It’s not just about checking boxes; it’s about achieving meaningful outcomes. Here’s how to approach it:

• Purpose Over Process: Before diving into a task, ask, “What is the higher goal here?” Make sure everyone understands how theirwork contributes to this purpose.

• Reframe Roles: When reassigning tasks, don’t just say, “We need this done.” Instead, explain how the task supports broader objectives and invite the person to think of ways to make it exceptional.

Setting Your Team Up for Success

Empower your team by framing new tasks in a way that promotes ownership and growth. Help them see not just what needs to be done, but why it matters. When people understand the ‘why,’ they are more likely to be proactive, find better solutions, and take initiative. Ask questions that encourage them to think critically:

• “What’s the ultimate outcome we’re aiming for?”

• “How does this project connect to your career goals?”

• “What new possibilities could emerge from this?”

• “How will we know when we’ve succeeded?”

Questions like these inspire your team to engage deeply with their work, moving beyond simple task completion to actively pursuing excellence.

Ask Questions That Drive Growth and Accountability

Don’t just manage tasks; coach your team to think strategically. Ask thoughtprovoking questions that stretch their capabilities and inspire leadership:

• “What’s one thing you could do differently to make this outstanding?”

• “How does this challenge fit into our broader team objectives?”

• “If we encounter obstacles, what’s our plan to stay on track?”

These questions encourage your team to take ownership of their roles, to see challenges as growth opportunities, and to view themselves as contributors to the organisation’s larger goals.

Your Call to Action

If you’re ready to transform your leadership approach and elevate your team’s performance through purposeful conversations, don’t hesitate to act. Start applying these insights today, and notice the difference in how your team responds and delivers.

Let’s Connect: Need more strategies for leading with purpose and empowering your team? Reach out to me at sally@teamresilience.com.au. Let’s take the next step together to unlock your team’s full potential and create meaningful change.

Higoe

BUILD Your Business: A Strategic Approach to Success PLANNING TO BUILD

Be Aware of your marketplace

customers & competitors

By Deb Fribbins BUSINESS COACH

Are you thinking of starting a business, investing in one, or expanding your existing operations? Thorough planning is crucial for success. By utilizing the BUILD framework, you can create a solid foundation for your business goals and maintain momentum throughout your journey.

B: Be Aware

Start by researching your market. Understand who your clients are, where to find them, and who your competition is. Ask yourself the critical question: Why do you want to start or expand your business? Identify the best locations for maximizing customer flow and determine your launch timeline. Ensure you have comprehensive planning in place, and consider what marketing strategies resonate best with your target audience. Recognize your differentiators and the tools—both digital and physical—that you’ll need to implement your vision.

U: Understand Customer Needs

In today’s market, customers often operate with a “WIIFM” mindset—What’s In It For Me? Address their needs by understanding their pain points and how you can make their lives easier. Think about how to capture their attention, what special offers you can provide, and how to present your products clearly. Consider complementary products they might be interested in and ensure you offer robust after-sales service.

I: Invest in Yourself and Your Business Investing in a mentor can significantly enhance your journey, helping you stay focused on your goals. Identify the best networking groups relevant to your industry and determine how many to join. Explore the opportunities these networks provide for investing time and resources to fuel your growth. Staying informed about current trends is essential for remaining competitive.

L: Learn from Customers and Competitors

Listening to your customers is vital. What are their requests and complaints? What do they expect from you? Make inexpensive adjustments to your services based on their feedback and assess the potential financial and operational impacts of these changes. Ensure your marketing effectively communicates with your audience and delivers the information they need.

D: Deliver on All Parameters

Craft a comprehensive Business Plan that includes a Marketing Plan and a Financial Plan. This should be built on a solid analysis of competitors, market conditions, product assortment, purchasing strategies, and cash flow projections.

By following the BUILD framework, you’ll establish a resilient foundation for your business. As challenges arise, you’ll be better equipped to resolve them by considering their effects on all areas of your operation. Make your entrepreneurial journey smoother and more successful by building your business on these essential principles.

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

Christmas Parties and Fringe Benefits Tax

ACCOUNTANT

By Anjana Jogi

The sun is shining, the end is near, and we begin to look forward to celebrating with friends, family and coworkers. As your advisor we wanted to make sure that you are fully aware that the end of year celebrations that you put on for your employees may hit you with unintended tax consequences. This message is to provide you with information so that you are fully informed.

Christmas Parties

These are some common scenarios relating to work Christmas parties, and their tax consequences:

- Party held on business premises

Where the party is for current employees only, there is no fringe benefits tax (FBT) to pay. However, there is also no income tax deduction or GST credits claimable.

If the party includes current employees and their associates or some of your clients, it depends on how much the cost of the party is per head.

If your party costs less than $300 per head, then there is no FBT to pay, but also no income taxdeduction or GST credits claimable.

If the party costs more than $300 per head, then the amount that is attributable to your employee’s associates (such as their spouse/partner) is subject to FBT. Any amount that is subject to FBT is claimable as a tax deduction, and you can claim GST credits as well. All the other amounts are not subject to FBT, but also are not deductible for income tax and no GST credits to claim.

- Party held away from business premises

If the party costs less than $300 per head, then no FBT is payable. However, you also cannot claim a tax deduction and no GST credits are available to claim.

If the party costs more than $300 per head, then FBT is payable with respect to each employee that attends, as well as their spouse/partner. Again, if FBT is payable on an amount, then you can claim an income tax deduction as well as any GST credits.

If any clients of yours attend the party, and it costs more than $300 per head, then no FBT is payable, but also no income tax deduction or GST credits can be claimed. However, if the party costs less than $300 per head, and at the party guests are provided a hamper (or other nonentertainment gift) worth less than $300, then the hamper is allowable as a tax deduction and GST credits can be claimed.

This is because the hamper is considered a gift which is separate from the party.

Christmas Gifts

If you provide your employees with a non-entertainment Christmas gift to thank them for their service, there is no FBT payable as long as that gift is valued at less than $300.Examples of nonentertainment gifts include a Christmas hamper, a bottle of wine or spirits, giftvouchers, flowers or other similar types of gifts.

If your are not sure where you stand with your holiday gifts and entertainment get in touch and we can help.

DIGITAL MEDIA

By Ethan Strybosch

Are You Tapping Into the $156,000 Per Year Google Ad Grant Yet?

For not-for-profit organisations (NFPs), standing out online can feel like an uphill battle. But what if you had $156,000 annually to boost your online presence and drive more people to your cause?

Enter the Google Ad Grant program, a powerful opportunity that provides NFPs with free advertising credit to spread their message, attract new supporters, and increase donations. If your organisation isn’t leveraging this game-changing resource yet, here’s everything you need to know to get started.

What Is the Google Ad Grant Program?

Google offers eligible NFPs up to $10,000 a month in Google Ads credit—totalling $156,000 a year. These funds allow you to run targeted ad campaigns that appear in Google search results, helping you reach the right audience at the right time.

Whether your goal is to raise awareness, drive traffic to your website, or engage with potential donors, Google Ad Grants can transform your online marketing efforts.

How to Apply

1. Check Your Eligibility

Start by ensuring your organisation meets the requirements. You must:

• Be a registered not-for-profit.

• Hold valid charity status in your country.

• Agree to Google’s nondiscrimination policies.

Visit Google for Nonprofits for full eligibility criteria.

2. Submit Your Application

Once your eligibility is confirmed, you can apply directly through Google for Nonprofits. The process is straightforward, and guidance is available at every step.

3. Set Up Your Account

After approval, you’ll need to set up your Google Ads account. Google provides a guided setup to ensure your campaigns comply with the program’s policies.

Optimising Your Ad Campaigns

Getting started is just the first step— ongoing optimisation is key to making the most of your ad credit. Here’s how to create impactful campaigns:

• Keyword Research

Identify the terms your audience is searching for using tools like Google Keyword Planner. Focus on keywords that align with your mission and services.

• Engaging Ad Copy

Craft compelling ads that resonate with your audience. Use clear and direct calls to action, such as “Donate Now” or “Learn More.”

• Landing Page Optimisation

Ensure the landing pages your ads link to are relevant and user-friendly. A clear call to action on these pages—like signing up for a newsletter or making a donation— can drive better results.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

While the Google Ad Grant program is an incredible opportunity, it’s essential to avoid these common mistakes:

• Low Click-Through Rates (CTR)

If your ads aren’t attracting clicks, test new keywords and refine your ad copy. Small changes can lead to significant improvements.

• Poor Quality Scores

Google assigns Quality Scores to your ads based on their relevance to the landing page. Ads and landing pages must align closely to maintain performance.

Ready to Make an Impact?

With $156,000 per year in free advertising, your organisation has the potential to reach new heights in visibility, engagement, and impact. Whether you’re just starting or looking to optimise existing campaigns, the Google Ad Grant program is a resource no NFP should overlook.

Take the first step today—visit Google for Nonprofits to learn more and apply. Your cause deserves to be seen.

Cybersecurity: Securing Your Devices

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 SentinelOne encompasses solutions that:

1. Protect your email

- Checking links (URLs)

- Scanning files

- Flagging social engineering attempts

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/endpoint-protection-platforms https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/ security/blog/2023/03/02/microsoftis-named-a-leader-in-the-2022-gartnermagic-quadrant-for-endpoint-protectionplatforms/

At Erebus IT, we are dedicated to providing reliable, and cost-effective IT solutions that empower businesses to thrive in the digital age.

BUSINESS CONTINUITY PLANNING (BCPDR)

• IT HEALTH CHECK

• IT GUIDANCE & SUPPORT

• DATA BACKUP & REPLICATION

• MICROSOFT 365

• PHONE SYSTEMS

• IT INFRASTRUCTURE

How and Where to Use Your Meal Entertainment Card for Salary Packaging Benefits

By Dan Nicholls

We all love sharing a meal with loved ones. But did you know you can salary package those meals so you pay less tax? In fact, you can use $2,650 of your pre-tax income on meals and entertainment. You can even claim meals enjoyed overseas. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about using salary packaging to save you money each month by using your Meal Entertainment card. All you have to do is pick which restaurant to go to.

How does it work?

The meal and entertainment benefit is available to not for profit employers, charitable organisations or anyone who works within the public health sector. Using the Fringe Benefits Tax legislation, qualifying employees can use up to $2,650 of their pre-tax income to pay for meals and entertainment. There are a few exclusions like the fact that food and drinks bought outside a restaurant are excluded, but other than that you’re literally saving money while eating out. It’s all possible through a Meal Entertainment Card, so let’s get straight to that.

What is a Meal and Entertainment Card?

Meal Entertainment cards are a type of Australian tax office salary packaging that are available to employers who work for the public health service, or those who qualify as not-for-profit employees. The meal and entertainment card allows qualifying employees to expense food and drink, holiday accommodation, and even venue hire while using their pre-tax dollars.

Getting your own meal and entertainment card is easy. They’re available through most salary packaging companies and require a simple application form to be completed.

What many people don’t know about the salary packaging meal and entertainment benefits is that they extend way past eating out. Let’s look at all the other benefits you get from having one.

Where else can I use my Meal Entertainment Card

Once you’ve received your Meal Entertainment Card, you can use it for:

Holiday accommodation

Your card can even be used to pay for holiday accommodation, including everything from five-star resorts to caravan parks. You can even use your card to pay for cruises. They all meet the accommodation rule and can be salary packaged.

Venue Hire

You can use your card to pay for venue hire for any event you plan on hosting. This includes everything from 21st birthdays to engagements.

Other food and beverages

Anything you purchase and consume at special occasions like weddings and birthdays also meet the criteria and can be salary packaged.

And of course, your meals

This includes all meals you pay for at cafés, restaurants and hotels.

What many people don’t know is that you can also include your family and friends in all of the expenditure above, and if you’re paying for a group you can use the card too.

What can’t I use my Meal Entertainment Card for?

There are a few things that you can use your Meal Entertainment card for. They are:

• Takeaway food

• Bottle shop purchases

• Grocery purchases

• Anything bought at movies or musicals

• Flights to or from your holiday destination

What else should you know?

Here are a few other helpful facts to know about your Meal Entertainment card:

- There is a maximum amount that can be claimed under meal entertainment - that amount is $2,650 per year.

- You can use your card on all qualifying expenses when you’re overseas too.

- You can even create a virtual version of your meal and entertainment card and keep it in your digital wallet to make things easier.

Salary packaging solutions that suit you

Now, you won’t just be saving by salary packaging every month - you’ll also be using your pre-tax income to go out to dinner, book holidays and even venue hire. There really are so many benefits to salary packaging, it makes you wonder why you didn’t do all of this before?

When you’re ready to get your Meal Entertainment card, get in touch with CBB The Salary Packaging People. The process is simple and it’ll mean you’ll get even more out of your salary packaging service. As the only not-for-profit provider of salary packaging solutions in Australia, we’re financial experts who support those who help hardworking people make the most out of every dollar they earn - and we’ve been doing it successfully for over 30 years.

Get in touch with a member of our team today and let’s make salary packaging work for you.

Dan Nicholls

6 paint touch-up jobs for summer

By Steve Dahllof

Christmas will soon be upon us and who wants to spend valuable holiday time with household chores? November is a great time to refresh your home. With the weather getting warmer, you can spruce up your home for outdoor entertaining or resale with a few quick and easy paint jobs over the following weekends.

1. Engaging entryway

If you have a timber front door, give it a refresh with a new coat or go wild with a completely new look. Red, cobalt blue and emerald green tones make definite statements and are colours that invite guests inside. Don’t forget the doorframes. These need a coat of paint for protection as well as aesthetics.

With primer, paint, brushes and sandpaper, you could have this done and dried in a few hours.

2. Good-looking garage door

If your garage door faces the street, it accounts for a large area of the appearance of your home. Does it look clean or a bit rundown? Both timber and metal garage doors can benefit from a lick of paint. Elegant and minimal or bold and beautiful, a new coat of paint on the door will add to the street appeal of your home.

3. Gorgeous garden

How many timber and metal surfaces do you see around your garden? A splash of colour is a great way to keep your garden bright and colourful in the months where plants aren’t flowering or the weather is overcast.

Planter boxes, fences, retaining walls and wall hangings are available for your creative flair. Imagine how a splash of yellow or orange could brighten up a dark corner or a dull brick wall. The vegetables may look boring but the box they’re planted in could make this the most attractive part of the garden if it were painted in festive green or red.

This is a fun project that can be done in stages anytime, each part taking no more than half-an-hour.

4. Desirable decking

Oiling your decking is something that should be done at least once a year to protect the timber from rain and consequent water rot. If your decking is painted, the paint will have started to shred after a year so painting it annually is also a must.

Choose a dry day with no wind. Cover and tape down surrounding surfaces like paths and walls with plastic sheeting. Sweep and soap the deck surfaces. Pour the oil or paint into a tray and spread evenly across the decks with a roller. If painting, choose a brand that is suitable for high traffic areas and outdoors. Make sure you oil and paint in a direction that leaves you room to get indoors without stepping on the wet surface.

5. Wonderful windows

For beauty and protection, exterior window frames need painting at least once every seven years. But the window can be thought of as the eyes of a house. Repainting your window frames can give you’re the appearance of your home a lift, along with other window features such as shutters. Try matching the colour of your doorframes and garage door, or a contrasting shade from the rest of the house will give a subtle distinction to your home. choosing to paint everything in the same tones can also produce a great effect.

6. Fabulous outdoor furniture

Oil and paint your outdoor timber furniture for the same reasons as you do your decking. However, with garden furniture you can have much more fun with colours. Benches can be decorated in one colour, striped, with motifs -let your imagination run wild, paint it in greens and browns to blend in with the surround foliage.

Put each item of furniture on a sheet outside, sand back, paint with primer and off you go. This is an activity which your kids can do with your guidance, lightening your workload, teaching them a new skill and at the same time giving them something fun and practical to do. These six small jobs can make a difference to your home and lift your spirits.

These six small jobs can make a difference to your home and lift your spirits.

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

How to look after your liver (especially during times of celebration)

NATUROPATHY

By Kathryn Messenger

Your liver is one of the major detoxification organs in your body. But not only does it work in detoxification, it also plays an important role in hormone regulation and blood glucose metabolism.

It’s commonly known that too much alcohol is bad for your liver. But did you know that overeating, too much sugar or white flour products, as well as prescription medications (and recreational drugs) can increase the detoxification load of the liver?

Some common signs of reduced liver function:

• Fatigue (especially after lunch or mid-afternoon)

• Brain fog

• Headaches

• Nausea

• Irritability, frustration, or anger

• Dry skin

The good news is that the liver is an organ that can repair itself (at least at this point), and there are lots of simple things you can do to help your liver with its role of detoxification and help to improve its function.

Fluids

Drink plenty of water, it’s the easiest way to help your body eliminate waste products and toxins, it does this via the liver and digestive system, via the kidneys and urinary system, and also through sweat. Lemon, lime or grapefruit in water is especially helpful. There are some herbal teas that will also be of benefit: chamomile tea, dandelion root, or turmeric.

Foods

Bitter foods are not only good for the liver, but will stimulate your body to make more enzymes to aid in digestion. Mild bitter foods include the brassica family: broccoli, cauliflower, kale, brussel sprouts and cabbage. Bitter leafy greens such as roquette or dandelion greens can help,

and for a good serve of bitters, you can go past bitter melon.

Fasting

It makes sense that is overeating can cause liver problems, fasting can help with the repair. Often people with poor liver function don’t have a morning appetite. If this is you, fasting breakfast is a great place to start. Be sure to drink plenty of water, and when you do start eating, avoid sugar and white flour products, and include some of the foods that will help your liver.

I see such good results in my clinic with people’s energy levels in a short time after taking liver herbs, and there are some great herbal and nutritional products to improve metabolism and to help you feel great.

GEELONG COUNCIL

The festive fun continues in Greater Geelong

Mayor Kontelj with (L-R) Santa’s little helper Leanna Gould, Fresh Creative Entertainment and community members Laicy Shando,Aleesha Shando (girl) & Shando Kallely

Block out this Friday and Saturday in your calendar for the free Laneways Christmas Festival, happening at Centrepoint Arcade and Market Square Shopping Centre, on Little Malop Street.

Delivered by the City, Piccadilly Market, Creative Geelong’s May’D Christmas Festival and Market Square Shopping Centre, enjoy two days of festive fun in central Geelong with friends and family:

Friday 6 December - 4.30pm8.30pm

Wander through a Christmas market offering handmade and unique gifts from local makers and artists, delicious food, drinks, cookie decorating and bath crystal pop ups, children’s activities, exhibitions, Santa Photos, festive windows, interactive reindeers, music and entertainment.

Saturday 7 December - 11.00am - 4.00pm

Explore Creative Geelong’s MayD Christmas Festival and Market, Santa Photos, gingerbread decorating, interactive reindeers, festive windows, community stalls and tasty treats, live performances and children’s craft workshops.

The City is hosting numerous other opportunities to get into the Christmas spirit, including Carousel Christmas with Santa. Running until Christmas Eve, children can enjoy the joyful atmosphere and a treat bag, share their Christmas wishes, take memorable photos with Santa and of course, have a magical ride on The Carousel. Bookings are essential.

After Saturday’s ‘Christmas Opening Night - Denis Walter Carols by the Bay’ event at The Arena where nine-year-old Rudra Wakodikar flicked the switch to turn on the Floating Christmas Tree, we are running nightly sound and light shows every 15 minutes between 8.30pm and midnight, at six minutes long.

As part of Christmas Nights at The Carousel, we are holding family-friendly sound and light shows on 14 and 21 December from 5.30pm, catering to community members who find the normal 8.30pm start time too late.

Secure your spot at Drysdale’s Potato Shed for a very special Christmas at The Shed event with sing-along carols, fun games, a visit from Santa, popcorn and family friendly films.

Our National Wool Museum is hosting a special Christmas at the Museum event on Thursday 19 December from 5.00pm7.00pm. Community members will get

free entry to the Wildlife Photographer of the Year 60 Exhibition from the Natural History Museum, family Christmas craft and an exclusive shopping experience.

The traditional individually decorated Christmas trees from 27 local primary schools return to Johnstone Park on Thursday, allowing students to show their families their festive creativity.

Or surprise your child with a personalised email from Santa that will make their day, referencing a present they will receive and what treat they’ll leave out for the big man himself.

Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM

“Greater Geelong is the place to be this Christmas.

We know community members are doing it tough in with the cost of living, so we are excited to deliver activities and experiences that are inclusive and free or low-cost.

Our Christmas in Geelong program will bring cheer and goodwill, as well as support other organisations, businesses and events happening in town.

It’s well worth exploring the full Christmas in Geelong program as there is something for everyone.”

Deputy Mayor Ron Nelson

“Geelong is proud to be known as the Christmas capital of Victoria.

Whether it’s buying unique gifts the Laneways Christmas Festival, meeting Santa at The Carousel or checking out the Floating Christmas Tree, there is so much to see and do this month.

While you’re out and about, we suggest stopping in for a bite at a local cafe or restaurant to support local businesses in the area.”

Carousel achieves record breaking numbers

New data has revealed that the everpopular City of Greater Geelong tourist attraction The Carousel achieved record-breaking numbers for the 2023-24 financial year.

The Carousel had 41,000 rides between July 1 last year and June 30 this year, marking the first time that numbers have exceeded 40,000 since 2005-06.

The figures exclude rides from children’s birthday parties and private functions, making the actual number of rides on the iconic waterfront attraction even higher.

Upcoming highlights at The Carousel include:

• Carousel Christmas with Santa events throughout December

• Christmas Nights at The Carousel on Saturday 14 December and Saturday 21 December

• Extended evening hours at The Carousel Thursday 19 December –Tuesday 24 December

• New Year’s Eve extended hours and Waterfront fireworks

The Carousel had more than 100,000 visitors during the 2023-24 financial year.

Prices for rides on the Carousel are $5 for children, adults and concession holders, and opening hours during summer are 10.30am to 5.00pm between Monday and Friday, and 10.30am to 6.00pm on Saturday and Sunday.

City of Greater Geelong CEO Ali Wastie

“Our region truly offers something for everyone, and families in particular have so many options to choose from when visiting,” Ms Wastie said.

The Spirit of Tasmania’s move to Geelong has been fantastic, and has undoubtedly contributed to the increase in tourism we have experienced.

We have maintained the same ride ticket prices at The Carousel for the past five years, making it an affordable, happy and memorable experience for children and their friends and families.

Our wonderful locals and regular riders just won’t let their parents or grandparents drive past without stopping for a ride on the horses.

We also know that holiday makers are choosing regional destinations post-COVID and Melbourne residents in particular are visiting Geelong on weekends to escape the hustle and bustle of the big smoke.”

Parka, six, and Sophie, four, enjoy a ride at popular City of Greater Geelong tourist attraction The Carousel.

Famous Floating Christmas Tree makes grand return

Geelong’s iconic Floating Christmas Tree arrived at Steampacket Quay this morning, welcomed by homegrown entertainer Denis Walter OAM.

As we celebrate over a decade of our beloved tree, the giant structure was towed from St Helens across Corio Bay into the quay in calm conditions at 8.15am, dazzling bystanders.

At 25 metres tall, the tree features 800 lights, more than 15,000 pixels to create animations and 30 new digital windows.

It sits atop a stylish and larger heli-pad barge, adding an additional 1.5 metres to its ultimate height.

It took 20 people at Hanlon Industries, Total Events and Elstone Diving Services to assemble the 14-tonne tree over six weeks at St Helen’s breakwater in North Geelong.

There are just days left until the tree is officially switched on at ‘Christmas Opening Night - Denis Walter Carols by the Bay’ this Saturday 30 November, delivered by the City and Denis Walter OAM.

This special event at Steampacket Gardens, guided by musical director Michael Cristiano, will kick off with a preshow and Team Dream kids’ entertainment, before performances from Denis Walter, Oz Boyz, Lucy Riddett, Julie Walter and Santa.

The night will culminate with a lucky child selected to flick the switch and light the spectacular Floating Christmas Tree, triggering low-level pyrotechnics and the start of the first sound and light show program.

The tree’s shows will play each night every 15 minutes between 8:30pm and midnight, running six minutes long.

There are two different shows to enjoy over the festive period, with the second show beginning on Boxing Day and running until the tree’s last day on Tuesday 7 January – coinciding with Orthodox Christmas.

Community members can get creative by changing the colours of the tree between sound and light shows.

As part of ‘Christmas Nights at The Carousel,’ we are holding family-friendly sound and light shows on 14 and 21 December from 5.30pm, catering to community members who find the normal 8.30pm start time too late.

CEO Ali Wastie

“The tree is a beacon of hope and symbol of unity.

Our magical Floating Christmas Tree is the centrepiece of the City’s Christmas in Geelong festivities.

Its return to the bay marks the arrival of a special time in our region that attracts visitors from across Victoria.

We’re thrilled that this popular tree brings community members of all ages so much joy and invite you to witness the lighting at this Saturday’s ‘Christmas Opening Night - Denis Walter Carols by the Bay.’

The floating tree encourages us to come together to celebrate the spirit of giving and goodwill.

When you visit the Floating Christmas Tree, don’t forget to tag your stunning pics on social media with the hashtag #GEELONGCHRISTMAS.”

Denis Walter

“I cannot wait to welcome the festive season to Geelong with my Carols By The Bay moving to Steampacket Gardens and celebrating the lighting of the Floating Christmas Tree.

Geelong is “Christmas Central” on November 30!”

Cr Trent Sullivan, Denis Walter OAM and Cr Melissa Cadwell 1.

Final days of Geelong Design Week 2024

Hundreds have attended Geelong Design Week 2024 events so far with dozens of exhibitions, workshops, talks, experiences and tours remaining before the festival wraps up this Saturday.

Geelong Design Week is for everyone, whether you’re an architecture aficionado, fashionista, sustainability champion or someone with diverse interests and creative pursuits.

This year’s program uniquely showcases local talent, how design and creativity can have community impact and our notable design heritage as the nation’s first and only UNESCO Creative City of Design, including:

Design Thinking Geelong: Strategic Design for Community Leaders: 9am –7.30pm Tuesday 26 November

Explore the fundamentals of strategic design, and discuss how capability uplift, courageous and collaborative leadership, and the integration of First

Nations knowledge can increase Geelong’s capability as a UNESCO City of Design.

Circularity and the Future of Geelong: 2pm – 3pm Tuesday 26 November

Join the City for an inspiring talk from internationally renowned speaker Ashleigh Morris, who will share her expertise on circularity and its transformative potential, before a dynamic panel discussion with some of Geelong’s brightest minds.

Geelong to Japan: 2pm – 3pm, Friday 29 November

Presented by the National Wool Museum, this panel discussion examines the relationship between Geelong and Japan through the wool trade. Japan has been a prominent buyer of Australian wool since 1890.

Yarra Street Window Gallery Design Showcase: 24 hours a day

Executive Director Placemaking Tennille Bradley

There is something on offer for everyone in the remaining days of the festival.

Our Yarra Street Window Gallery is transformed into a vibrant display of glasswork, textiles, ceramics, mixed media and more, celebrating the creativity and innovation of Geelong’s artists and designers.

The Gordon Tech School x Kortrijk Wonder Festival Projection: 8pm – 6am daily

Check out this motion capture projection from the Geelong Tech School, created especially for the Wonder Creativity Festival in Kortrijk, Belgium’s UNESCO Creative City of Design.

Tran2located exhibition: 10am – 4pm daily

This exhibition features reflections from 19 Deakin University students who translocated innovations from Geelong to Nagoya, which explore the connection between the two cities’ design, manufacturing, contemporary art and culture. Secure your tickets

“The Geelong Design Week events we’ve held so far have received fantastic feedback from design experts, creatives, businesses, students, design enthusiasts, families and the broader community.

This is your chance to delve into local design successes, innovation, creativity and thought-provoking discussions.

Geelong Design Week is a celebration of creativity and innovation.

We’re champions of design excellence because when it’s done well, it paves the way for a more inclusive, sustainable and accessible Greater Geelong.

Make sure to lock in your tickets soon to get the best out of the festival’s last days.”

New partnership with Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race

We’re excited to support Visit Victoria’s upcoming 2025 Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race with a new partnership on its 10th anniversary.

The City has increased its sponsorship contribution to $250,000 for this muchloved anchor event in our major events calendar, which runs from Wednesday 29 January to Sunday 2 February 2025.

This year’s event attracted 140,000 spectators and participants and generated an economic benefit of $17.8 million to Greater Geelong, showcasing the picturesque coastal and city landscapes of our region on the world stage.

Next year’s men’s and women’s road races will feature a revamped course, including a new loop around the beautiful Geelong Botanic Gardens and reverting to a clockwise direction from the first race in 2015.

Troy Edwards, Executive Director Corporate Services

“The annual road race, supported by the Victoria Government through Visit Victoria, is a showpiece of Geelong’s major events calendar.

We are pleased to boost our sponsorship support for the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race to $250,000 funding on its 10th anniversary.

This event is beloved amongst residents and visitors alike because of the spectacular athleticism on show, stunning views, difficult course and exciting spectator experience.

It will feature a new course route and vantage points for spectators, in addition to crowd favourites

such as the relentless Challambra climb in Highton.

I can’t wait to see our community members and local businesses getting around the athletes, cyclists and families taking part in 2025.”

Member for Geelong Christine Couzens MP

“The Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race is a major sporting event that puts Geelong in front of a worldwide audience.

The State Government and the City of Greater Geelong support the event because it means more tourism and more jobs for the Geelong region.

Australia’s only Tour De France winner, Cadel Evans

The event is brilliant for the Geelong region, its community and local businesses, so for the City of Greater Geelong to recognise this and provide its support makes a significant difference.

We are extremely thankful for their contribution which will help us in delivering another unforgettable event in 2025.”

Registrations are open for the free, hourlong GeelongPort Family Ride on Friday 31 January – a fun family bonding activity accepting riders of age 3 and above with an adult.

Spots are available for the TAC People’s Ride on Saturday 1 February, with 59km and 124km race options for all abilities and experience levels. This ride takes in the best of our region on the same roads as the pros.

The elite competition will feature scenic roads, rolling hills, technical corners and pinchy climbs, kicking off with the Women’s 142km course for the 2025 Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race on Saturday 1 February.

The men will tackle a 184km course in the 2025 Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race on Sunday 2 February.

Christine Couzens MP, race ambassador and Olympian Grace Brown, Cadel Evans and avid cyclist Troy Edwards from the City.

New home for sculpture that celebrates people with disability

The I AM public artwork will spend the next year at our beautiful Geelong Botanic Gardens, having moved from Drysdale’s Potato Shed.

The two-metre-tall concrete sculpture recognises our community members who have a lived experience with disability and their achievements.

I AM acknowledges the empowerment of diversity and draws from political and pop culture statements such as the 1968 Memphis black sanitation workers slogan “I AM a man”, and Helen Reddy’s 1971 anthem “I AM woman.”

Designed to be relocated around the municipality, each letter weighs around four tonnes and was craned into the gardens yesterday.

We commissioned Mark Cuthbertson with artist-collaborators Robert Croft, Hannah Wilkinson, Christian Den Besten and George Macaronis to develop the large-scale work, with more than 85 contributions from the community.

Funded by the Victorian Government through the Community Support Fund, I AM was delivered in partnership with VALiD (Victorian Advocacy League for Individuals with Disabilities) and Geelongbased ArtGusto.

Tennille Bradley, Executive Director Placemaking

The public artwork reinforces that everyone in the Greater Geelong community is welcome.

The I AM sculpture celebrates the unique contributions of people with disability to our community and gives them a voice.

Embedded with words and names from community members with disability, I AM has reached a wide audience having previously been installed in Drysdale, Pako Street, Lara and the Geelong Waterfront.

The sculpture invites passersby to be a part of the work - you can position yourself within I AM to take photos that will form a collective voice celebrating the diversity of our local community.

I encourage the community to visit the public artwork and use the hashtag #IAMGeelong when posting photos to social media.

Christine Couzens MP, Member for Geelong

The important artwork celebrates people of all abilities as part of our community.

The I AM sculpture will be a great addition, and attraction, to the Geelong Botanical Gardens.

Congratulations to Mark, Robert, Hannah, Christian, George and everyone who contributed to this wonderful sculpture for Geelong.

Artist Mark Cuthbertson,Trevor Ah Hang kneeling next to one of his contributions -‘Tjiipi Elder,’Christine Couzens MP and Geelong Botanic Gardens’ Tim Hardy and Ryan Holden who helped with the statue’s installation.

2025 Geelong calendar cover image winner announced

The City is delighted to unveil the winning cover image for the 2025 City of Greater Geelong Calendar, Sea Baths by Louise Edebone.

The cover image features a vibrant aerial photograph of the Eastern Beach promenade and swimming enclosure.

The Geelong calendar competition invites local photographers to submit their images of Geelong and its surrounds. This year, there were over 750 images submitted from photographers.

To select the cover image for the calendar, we conducted a public vote, and the competition saw participation from over 3,100 unique voters.

The 2025 calendars will be available in December to collect from City of Greater Geelong customer service centres:

• Wurriki Nyal – 137-149 Mercer Street, Geelong

• Corio Shopping Centre – Corner Bacchus Marsh and Purnell Roads

• Boronggook Drysdale Library – 2-8 Wyndham Street, Drysdale.

City of Greater Geelong CEO Ali Wastie

“The yearly calendar is popular with residents and it’s wonderful to have a community member’s photo on the cover.

Thank you to everyone who submitted a photo for the calendar competition. It is always a pleasure to see Greater Geelong through so many different lenses.”

2025 cover winner Louise Edebone

“I am thrilled to have my photo on the cover.

We are spoilt for choice living in this beautiful region, not only within Geelong city but also beyond with the rural landscapes and surf coast. There is so much to experience within easy reach.

The historic sea bath and timber promenade evoke the carefree summers of yesteryear.”

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL NOT-FOR-PROFIT

Friend in Me

DECEMBER 2024

Statewide support for families facing childhood palliative care

Very Special Kids believe all children and young people have the right to quality of life, no matter how long or short their life may be.

For nearly 40 years, the organisation has helped thousands of Victorian families navigate the challenges and emotions of childhood palliative care – supporting them through life, death and bereavement.

Its children’s hospice, Very Special Kids House, was the first in Australia and remains Victoria’s only dedicated paediatric palliative care facility. Opened in 1996 and rebuilt in 2023, it has been a lifeline for thousands of seriously ill kids.

There is a common misconception that a hospice is a place where children go to die, but Very Special Kids House is a place where life is celebrated and every moment is cherished. It is also, importantly, a place parents and carers can rely on for a much-needed break.

By addressing the physical, emotional, spiritual and mental needs of both the children and their families, Very Special Kids ensures that families are never alone, even during the most difficult times. Its multidisciplinary approach includes clinical care, counselling, sibling support, bereavement support and community activities.

Parents Sam and Bhupinder understand first-hand the impact of this holistic care. Their son Nishan, aged five, has been supported by Very Special Kids since 2021. Nishan has KCNQ5 encephalopathy, a rare and lifelimiting neurodevelopmental disorder that affects just three known children in the world.

Nishan’s care requires round-the-clock attention. He has dystonia, a condition that causes painful muscle seizures, and he is fed through a tube in his stomach. Sadly, there is no cure and experts have no proven treatment plan.

“We try to make every day Christmas Day for Nishan because we don’t know if he will be with us tomorrow.”

Sam, mum of five-year-old Nishan who has KCNQ5

NOT-FOR-PROFIT

In these moments of overwhelming grief, Very Special Kids’ highly skilled team of professionals including social workers, psychologists, psychotherapists, family therapists and play therapists stand by each families side to provide tailored support at every stage of their journey. For Nishan’s family, their family support practitioner – Jenn – has become a vital source of comfort and guidance.

Sam shares,

“Whenever I feel depressed or exhausted, I always contact Jenn. She’s the best.Whether I’m struggling with navigating the NDIS or I just need someone to talk to, Jenn is the only person who understands our family and where we’re coming from.”

Thanks to the generosity of the Victorian community, Very Special Kids can comfort families like Nishan’s when they need it most. This support can help families delicately balance the management of medical needs, while also trying to provide as much normalcy and joy as possible.

With Christmas approaching, Sam, Bhupinder and their daughter Mehar are determined to make the most of every precious moment with Nishan. They cherish the simple joys of the season—watching the twinkling lights on the Christmas tree, listening to Christmas music and enjoying time together as a family.

Christmas can be a stressful time for many of us, but for a family who has a seriously ill child, it can prove completely overwhelming. Living with the stress of uncertainty, plus round-the-clock care, can put an almost unbearable strain on a family.

www.donations.vsk.org.au/ christmas/gift

Very Special Kids’ Christmas appeal closes on 24 December.

How to protect your home when you go away

If you’re going on holiday, making your home look occupied when you’re not there is a good way to put off unwanted intruders.

Most break-ins happen when there’s no-one home. Before you go away, take time to secure your home and reduce the chance a thief breaking in by following these simple tips.

Lock up

Make sure all doors and windows are shut and locked, including sheds, garages and gates.

Remove any spare keys you have hidden outside the home and keep any spares out of sight inside the house.

Don’t broadcast your holiday

Don’t announce on social media that you’re going away. You can post your holiday snaps once you’ve safely returned home.

Set your social media accounts to “private” or “friends only” and delete any followers you don’t know.

Make it seem like you’re at home

Get timer switches for your lights and radio or television, if you don’t have smart home technology. Set them to turn on and off at times of the day when you would normally use them.

Make sure the lights come on in the living areas of your home, and not in the hallway, for example. Tuning your radio to a station which is mostly talking is better than a music station.

Ask a neighbour to help

Ask a neighbour you trust to keep an eye on your property and help make it look like you’re there. Tell them when you’re going and when you’ll be back. Ask them to:

• park their car in your driveway to make it look like you’re at home

• clear out your letterbox

• open and close blinds at appropriate times of the day

• put your garbage bins out on collection day and bring them in again.

• hang some washing on your line and bring it in again.

Let police know you’ll be away

Register your absence from home with Victoria Police.

You can register online or download and complete an “Absence from residence” form and take it to yourlocal police station.

Remember to let police know when you’ve returned home, especially if you come back earlier than planned.

For more tips and to get your free home security pre-holiday checklist go to https://nhw.com.au/home-and-property/howto-protect-your-home-when-you-go-away/

Have a safe, stress-free festive season

As we take advantage of Black Friday and Click Frenzy deals in preparation for Christmas, be very aware when shopping online. And ensure your deliveries will be secure.

Click safely, gift securely:

Online shopping is a convenient sleigh ride straight to your doorstep, but it pays to be vigilant. Adopt smart habits when you shop online. Only use trusted retailers, you’ve shopped with previously, use a secure payment method such as PayPal and make sure the site is genuine and secure.

Deliver smiles, not risks:

Deliveries left on your doorstep can be a beacon for holiday thieves. Choose to have your parcels delivered to your closest Australia Post or Amazon parcel locker, to your workplace or to a trusted neighbour or family member who’s usually at home.

For more information, visit https://nhw.com.au/ home-and-property/5-ways-to-have-a-safe-stressfree-festive-season/

In business laughter can be a valuable strategy for success.

Employee well-being and company productivity, especially at this time of year, go hand in hand when people feel more connected,engaged and motivated to perform at their best.

A workplace that encourages laughter that doesn’t rely on jokes or comedy can achieve this through the introduction of Laughter Yoga. We can laugh even when we are not in the mood by simulating laughter.

The good news is that Laughter Yoga doesn’t require you to bend and twist your body in a variety of poses. It is a combination of playful laughter exercises and deep breathing exercises which brings in lots of fresh air to make you feel healthy and energetic.

Laughter Club Geelong for over 20 years has been offering a free 30 minute laughter yoga session at Eastern Beach each Saturday morning at 9:00am. People discover that by being in a group of people sees simulated laughter turn into genuine laughter very quickly.

When you laugh you change and when you change the whole world changes, says Dr Madan Kataria the founder of Laughter Yoga worldwide.

Try it for yourself and experience what thousands of people around the world do weekly if not daily and discover how a positive environment can lead to a more vibrant workplace culture when laughter is shared regularly.

When:

Every Saturday 9:00am till 9:30am

Where:

Eastern Beach in front of the Wading Pool

What:

Free laughter session for all ages and abilities

Laughter is a celebration of the human spirit! Laughter has the power to improve the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health of individuals. It’s not a myth – laughter is good for you!

There is documented evidence that laughter is the best medicine.

Enquiries: 0418 521 265 or phillipa@livelifelaughing.com.au

2024

Christmas Appeal

Christmas Appeal and help sprinkle some love and joy to the hundreds of animals in our shelter. Make wishes come

The Geelong Animal Welfare Society has launched its 2024 Christmas Appeal, calling for financial donations to support the organisation to deliver its important work and contributions to its new wishlist to help the animals in its care.

Last year, 3383 animals came into GAWS’ care including 1943 cats and 1263 dogs.

GAWS CEO Helen Cocks said it costs an average of $65 a day per animal to cover essentials and hopes the community can support the not-for-profit organisation through its Christmas Appeal.

“We are encouraging local businesses, community members and animal lovers to sprinkle joy into the lives of shelter animals and donate to the GAWS 2024 Christmas Appeal, with our aim of raising $30,000,” Ms Cocks said.

“GAWS could have more than 300 animals in care on Christmas Day, each needing vital support such as food, shelter and medical care.”

This year, in addition to general financial donations and eCards, GAWS has introduced a Christmas wishlist as part of its Appeal; a crowdfunding initiative enabling people to choose a specific item to contribute to.

“We are thrilled to provide people a special opportunity to make wishes come true for the animals at GAWS. By donating towards an item from our Christmas wishlist, you will help us acquire essential items that will directly benefit the animals. Every contribution, no matter the amount, brings us closer to purchasing each item,” Ms Cocks said.

The wishlist consists of six items ranging from $50 anti-anxiety cat beds to $19,500 surgical lights.

“Last year our vet clinic conducted 7240 consultations and thousands of procedures. We hope to acquire the funds to purchase a new surgical table and lighting system so our vet team can perform more intricate surgeries and increase the number of surgeries on large dogs,” Ms Cock said.

Foster Care Starter Packs at $80 each – which include food, bowls, litter trays, bedding and toys to help vulnerable animals and their volunteer foster carers get set up for their stay - are also on the wishlist.

“Last year, we had 1497 foster care admissions. These are animals who need extra care and support in a home environment, and we need to send them off with all the essentials so they can thrive,” Ms Cocks said.

GAWS said the community has jumped on the chance to contribute towards specific items with targets already reached for three of the wishlist items.

“We are so thankful for our generous donors who will help our canines feel cooler this summer with the water misters, our felines experience freedom with the large outdoor enclosure and our timid cats feel calm in the anti-anxiety beds,” Ms Cocks said.

The GAWS Christmas Appeal also includes eCards and general donations.

“We are offering our Christmas eCards as another way to support our cause while spreading joy to a loved one. It’s the perfect Christmas gift for that person who has everything, is hard to buy for or is an animal lover. You just choose an amount to donate, select one of our four eCard designs, add a message and we’ll email it to your loved one. We also accept general donations for those who want to support GAWS and our vital work,” Ms Cocks said.

In addition to the Christmas Appeal, the GAWS 2025 Graduates Calendar is available to purchase for $20 and makes a great stocking filler, with all proceeds going to GAWS.

For more information or to donate to the GAWS 2024 Christmas Appeal, visit

www.gaws.org.au/christmas-appeal-2024

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Christmas Appeal: www.gaws.org.au/christmas-appeal-2024

Wishlist items:

• Surgical Table: www.gaws.org.au/wishlist/surgical-table

• Surgical Lights: www.gaws.org.au/wishlist/surgical-lights

• Foster Care Starter Packs: www.gaws.org.au/wishlist/fosterstarter-pack

• Dog Water Misters: www.gaws.org.au/wishlist/water-misters

• Cat Outdoor Enclosure: www.gaws.org.au/wishlist/cat-playenclosure

• Cat Anti-Anxiety Beds: www.gaws.org.au/wishlist/cat-beds

e-Cards: www.gaws.org.au/christmas-appeal-2024/ecard General donations: www.gaws.org.au/gaws-christmas-appeal2024-general

GAWS 2025 Calendar: www.gaws.org.au/store/products/17/2024gaws-calendar

Donate to the GAWS

Flora & Fauna Local History

Starting from January 4th

DECEMBER 2024

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

Dan Nicholls • Salary Packaging Services

Dan Nicholls is a director at The Salary Packaging People. Having spent over 20 years in brought his energy and expertise to the specialist field of salary packaging in his adopted employees through providing benefits that help individuals save thousands of dollars in

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From healthcare and community organisations to private and public companies, they even take care of the back-end payroll.For this month’s ideal client, it would be any business operation.

For this month’s ideal client, it would be any business regardless of its structure, state,

• Member of Find Geelong

in leadership & management roles in financial services in the UK and Australia, Dan has adopted home city of Geelong. Driven to help employers to recruit, reward and retain their in tax on everyday expenses entertainment and running their own cars.

Novated Leasing administration services to business of any size from our Geelong head employer to be able to offer salary packaging to their staff, which is why they make their teams. And it doesn’t cost employers anything to do it. A zero cost pay rise!

take care of as much of the process from start to finish as their clients need – They can business regardless of its structure, state, size and location with Pay-As-You-Go structure and state, size and location with Pay-As-You-Go structure and operation.

THE GEELONG ARTS CENTRE

Musical Time WarpCentreStage Musical Theatre Showcase

Embark on a captivating journey through the archives of musical theatre as CentreStage presents ‘Musical Time Warp’!

Wed 4 Dec, 7:30pm - Troupes A and B

Thu 5 Dec, 7:30pm - Troupes C and D

It starts with a jump to the left!

Join CentreStage for an exhilarating showcase featuring their Middle and Senior Troupe students, as they transport you through time and space to explore

iconic musicals from around the world across different eras.

Step into the enchanting Story House Theatre and prepare to be swept away by the magic of live performance.

From the glitz and glamour of Broadway to the rich tapestry of West End classics, our talented performers will bring to life

the timeless melodies and unforgettable stories that have defined musical theatre through the ages.

Experience the roaring twenties, the swinging sixties, the neon-lit streets, and much more as we delve into the diverse and dynamic world of musicals. With dazzling choreography, stunning costumes, and powerhouse vocals, our students will leave you spellbound with their passion and talent.

Join us for an evening of nostalgia, excitement, and celebration as we celebrate the enduring legacy of musical theatre.

Don’t miss your chance to witness the magic of ‘Musical Time Warp’ at The Story House Theatre, Geelong Arts Centre. Book your tickets now and prepare to be transported on a musical journey like no other!

are on sale now.

Under 12 years

10 + $36

The students and guest artists of Geelong Ballet Centre welcome you to witness the stunning technique, artistic excellence and magic of their productions.

If you wish to purchase tickets to both performances, please contact Box Office between 9am and 5pm, Monday to Friday. Performances: Sat, 07 Dec 2024

Presenting a celebration of dance, including original contemporary and jazz choreographic works and the mesmerising full length ballet, Swan Lake.

CENTRE THIS DECEMBER

Handel’s Messiah | Melbourne Symphony Orchestra 2024

Handel’s greatest oratorio celebration is still as potent today as it was at its premiere more than 280 years ago.

Inspiring joy and wonder from both first-time listeners and those who’ve made it a yearly tradition, Messiah will have you singing ‘Hallelujah!’ all the way home.

A Merry Little Christmas with Lucy Durack

Lucy Durack shot to stardom as Glinda the Good Witch in the original Australian cast of Wicked. She has gone on to star in other musicals like Legally Blonde, The Wizard of Oz, Mamma Mia!, Shrek and Midnight the Musical, as well as plays such as Private Lives and Touching The Void for Melbourne Theatre Company.

Join us for a relaxing morning tea consisting of complimentary tea, coffee and sweets before the show!

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 11:00am

Join Australian star of stage and screen, Lucy Durack, in this show full of heart-warming melodies and timeless Christmas classics!

Experience the joy of the festive season in a show of much-loved Christmas classics for the whole family to sing along to. Music theatre and Carols sensation, Lucy Durack will ring in the holiday season with all-time favourites like Silent Night, All I Want for Christmas, and O Holy Night.

The War On 2024 - Annual Comedy Gala

VIP Seat Inclusions

VIP seats include the best seats in the house + a copy of The Chaser/Shovel Annual valued at $34.95.

The War on 2024 Annual Comedy Gala

Annual Comedy Gala has become a fixture on the national circuit.

Join Charles Firth (The Chaser), James Schloeffel (founder of The Shovel), Mark Humphries (ABC TV) and – for the very first time – the sensational Veronica Milsom (Mad as Hell, Triple J), for a night of satire, sketches, sh*t-stirring and the best headlines from The Chaser and The Shovel.

Infinite Dance Studios - Powerhouse

Infinite Dance Studios Powerhouse is taking to The Play House stage!

A razor-sharp satirical skewering of politics, culture, and current events, The The Infinite Dance Studios Powerhouse is a vibrant hub where creativity and excellence converge, fostering a dynamic environment where dancers of all levels thrive.

PERFORMANCES Sat, 14 Dec 202412:30pm Sat, 14 Dec 202406:30pm

Geelong Dance Movement - Rockin Through The USA

Come along and join Geelong Dance Movement for a rockin’ journey through the USA! From Alaska to Texas they will take you on an exciting dance adventure.

Tickets are on sale now!

PERFORMANCES

FSun, 15 Dec 2024 01:00pm Sun, 15 Dec 2024 05:00pm

Dami Im - Christmas Songbook Tour

Dami Im is bringing a Christmas treat, Christmas Songbook Tour 2024 to Geelong!

Get ready to jingle all the way with Dami Im on her first-ever Christmas Song Book tour.

With over a decade of captivating performances across the globe, from the prestigious Sydney Opera House to the esteemed Eurovision stage, Dami has consistently impressed audiences. Now, she is set to head out on her first Christmas Songbook tour.

Experience a unique festive celebration as Dami performs alongside her topclass band, offering a blend of Christmas classics, original songs, and timeless favourites that are sure to evoke nostalgia and warmth.

Gather your loved ones for an evening of music and cherished memories. As Dami herself reflects, “Christmas holds a special kind of magic, and I’m delighted to share it with all of you on this tour.”

Secure your tickets now for an intimate and unforgettable holiday experience!

About Dami:

Dami’s illustrious career as a singersongwriter spans over a decade, marked by a constellation of hits. From commanding performances at the Sydney Opera House and the Asia Songfest K-Pop Festival to her triumphant win on the Masked Singer, her artistry has graced stages both at home and worldwide. Notably, she has illuminated the stages of the MTV Asia and Beijing Global Gala, as well as the Byron Bay Bluesfest to the Eurovision Song Contest, where her song “Sound of Silence” achieved chart-topping success in 43 countries, solidifying her status as ‘Eurovision Royalty.’

Since her momentous win on the X-Factor in 2013, Dami has embarked on notable ventures, including touring with John Legend, recording the official version of the Australian anthem, and collaborating with the formidable jazz virtuoso James Morrison. Aside from her music, Dami has penned two books—one in English and another in her mother tongue, Korean.

Dami’s versatility, unwavering dedication, and global impact make her an exciting and dynamic artist to watch as she continues to inspire new audiences, breaking down barriers with her passion and creativity.

PERFORMANCES Fri, 20 Dec 2024

Portarlington Makers Market

The Portarlington Makers Market is a quality artist, artisan and food producers (packaged) market.

Supporting makers and food producers from the local and surrounding areas.

You can find the market across the road from the Portarlington Hotel. It is held mainly inside the Senior Community Hall, with stallholders outside.

Stall enquiries

New stall holders welcome portarlingtonmakersmarket@gmail.com

When Various dates from 1 December 2024 to 28 December 2025

Where Seniors Community Hall

Wadawurrung Country, 65 Newcombe Street, Portarlington VIC 3223

Contact: Alexandra Dascarellos

Email: portarlingtonmakersmarket@gmail.com

Phone: +61 417 389 008

Associated organisation: Portarlington Makers Market

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

Come along to this community event and sing along to well-known carols while considering the birth of Jesus.

Free sausage sizzle available before the carols start.

atmosphere,

for about an hour.

This event is part of the Christmas in Geelong program.

When 21 December 2024, 05:00 PM - 06:30 PM

Where

Geelong West Presbyterian Church

Wadawurrung Country, 105-107 Pakington St, Geelong West. Corner of Pako and Waratah

Contact Luke McSeveny

Email: info@geelongwestpc.com.au

Phone: +61 415 445 668

Associated organisation: Geelong West Presbyterian Church Website: https://geelongwestpc.com.au/ Follow us: https://www.facebook.com/gwpressychurch

Free battery operated candles available for children.

Family friendly

the carols service will go

LOCAL EVENTS

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride - Queenscliff

Experience the Magic of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride in December!

Get ready to embark on a magical journey as THE POLAR EXPRESS™ stops at Queenscliff this December in celebration of the 20th Anniversary of the film THE POLAR EXPRESS™

Ticketing

DATES: 30 November + 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21 & 22 December 2024

SHOW TIMES: 9:30am - 11:00am - 1:30pm - 3:00pm

BOOK HERE

Contact: Kate

Email: info@bellarinerailway.com.au

Phone: +61 3 5258 2069

Associated organisation: The Bellarine Railway Website: https://bellarinerailway.com.au/ the-polar-express-queenscliff/ Follow us: https://www.facebook.com/ TheBellarineRailway/ https://www.instagram.com/the_ bellarine_railway/

Friday December 13

We are having a Christmas Party and what better way to ring ding ding the festive season in than to party with Wilbur Wilde & the Troublemakers live at Oneday!

Get ready to kick off the festive season with a bang at this super fun event. A perfect event to celebrate with your work buddies or to simply party with your mates. Book Here

Contact Samantha Lythall

Email: functions@onedayestate.com.au

Phone: +61 419 315 856

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

Christmas Projections at City Hall

City Hall is lighting up this Christmas with festive projections that celebrate and encourage kindness, inspired by 60 local kindergarten children.

We believe that kindness comes from the heart, so this year the City has partnered

Ocean Grove Carols in the Park

A big crowd is expected in excess of 3,000 for the 2024 Ocean Grove Carols in the Park.

Families will be entertained with carols faccompanied by the Geelong Harmony Chrous and the Carols Orchestra.

The Ocean Grove Carols is the only Christmas event in the region to present carols with a symphony orchestra and chorus and the attendees certainly appreciated the effort that the Carols Committee had put into Ocean Grove’s biggest annual event.

The schools singing carols along with a visit from Santa, (who will bring snow with him to delight the children), thrilled the children and Mark Hyland will M.C. the proceedings.

with not-for-profit Meli to ask kindergarteners to draw, colour and express what kindness and hope at Christmas means to them. The initiative aims to teach this value to children and to get them to think about how they can show kindness in their own lives.

Projection artist Olaf Meyer, his team from Multimedia Events and City staff held workshops at Meli kindergartens in Geelong, seeing the youngsters decorating paper hearts.

The projections will run from dusk to 12 midnight, seven nights per week from Saturday 30 November 2024 running until Tuesday 7 January 2025.

Watch them from a marked viewing area at ground level or try watching from the Civic Car Park to get a birdseye view!

Remember to tag your beautiful photos and share the festive spirit on social media with #GeelongChristmas #EventsGeelong

This event is proudly presented by the City of Greater Geelong as part of the Christmas in Geelong program.

When:

Daily from 30 November 2024 to 07 January 2025, 08:30pm - 11:59pm

Where: City Hall

Wadawurrung Country, 30 Gheringhap Street, Geelong

Contact: Ragen Haythorpe

Email: events@geelongcity.vic.gov.au Phone: +61 3 5272 5272

All gate takings will be donated to Feed Me Bellarine

Please bring an unwrapped gift for a needy child

This event has been supported by City of Greater Geelong Community Partnerships Program.

When

08 December 2024, 07:00 PM - 09:00 PM

Contact: Jon Mamonski

Email: jon@jonm.com

Phone: +61 419 507 513

Associated organisation: Ocean Grove Carols Committee

Follow us: https://www.facebook.com/ oceangrovecarols

Christmas at the Trots

Get ready to sleigh the holiday season with a Christmas party like no other!

Celebrate your Christmas get together with work colleagues, family and friends with a night at the trots.

We have dining and beverage packages available to suit your budget and group size along with private function spaces available.

To further discuss your function requirements, contact GHRC on ph. 5275 4880.

When

Various dates from 6 December 2024 to 20 December 2024, 06:00pm - 11:00pm

Where

Geelong Harness Racing Club

Wadawurrung Country, Beckley Park Precinct, 40 Broderick Road, Corio Vic 3214

St Mary’s Parish Christmas Carols Event

Join us for a Festive Celebration

Come and enjoy a fun-filled day of Karaoke Christmas Carols and live performances in a cozy, indoor cabaretstyle setting.

Highlights include:

• Free BBQ sausage sizzle for lunch

• Complimentary tea and coffee

• Free face painting for the kids

• Soft drinks available for just $1.00

• Delicious treats, cakes, and Christmas gift stalls

• A festive raffle with exciting prizes

Everyone is welcome! Whether you’re joining for the music, the food, or the holiday spirit, we’d love to see you there!

This event is part of the Christmas in Geelong program.

When: 08 December 2024, 12:00 PM - 03:00 PM

Where:

St Mary’s Parish Centre Wadawurrung Country, 150 Yarra Street, Geelong

Contact:

Associated organisation: St Mary’s Parish

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

Follow us:

https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100066542707641

These FishAbility sessions are part of an inclusive program FREE to Victorians living with a disability.

Designed specifically to cater for all levels of ability, this accessible Fishing Event seeks to promote time in nature, social interaction, rehabilitation and fun via Fishing.

Supported by our Fishcare Victoria staff and volunteers, all fishing gear is provided, including adaptive options to suit specific physical needs.

We do request that support workers accompany all participants and play an active role in the overall well-being of the individual throughout the sessionplease indicate any specific needs in your booking details.

Free parking and accessible toilets nearby.

Tickets

Although this is a free event, booking essential.

Contact: Zoe Armistead

Email: zoe@fishcarevictoria.org.au

Phone: 0474841190

Associated organisation: Fishcare Victoria Website: https://fishcare.org.au/

FishAbility by Fishcare: Disability-friendly Fishing- Geelong Fyansford Paper Mill Heritage Tours

The Fyansford Paper Mill paper mill complex, was constructed between 1876 to 1878 using locally cut bluestone and brick, and comprises the original mill buildings, manager’s house, six workers’ cottages, a bluestone water race with impeller, tower and stone weir. Its Heritage Victoria listing underlines its importance.

The Paper Mill buildings and water race are an impressive example of industrial architecture of the time. Manufacturing began in 1878 with early paper made from rags and cloth, then shredded before being processed. Your tour will take you through this heritage listed site to follow the paper making trail and hear stories and historic details along the way.

The Fyansford Paper Mill is now home to a collection of artisan workshops and galleries, a winery and restaurant, a café, a wellness centre and more. Buy Tickets

When Various dates from 3 November 2024 to 14 December 2025, 11:00am - 12:15pm

Contact: Stephen Bath

Email: stephenbath8@gmail.com

Phone: +61 407 335 198

Associated organisation: Highton Rotary Club

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

Follow us: https://www.facebook.com/ hightonrotary

New year’s Eve Fireworks

Free Fireworks displays returns to the Waterfront this New Year’s Eve as we say farewell to 2024 and welcome in the new year, 2025...! There will be a family-friendly hour at dusk with a 9:30pm display as well as the traditional midnight display.

Pet owners are urged to keep their pets safe during this time.

Plan your New Year’s Eve

With a crowd making their way into the city and surrounds for the celebrations, a little planning can make it a night to remember.

Family Discos

A perfect blend of music, laughter, togetherness and delectable food.

Join us for an unforgettable experience where generations come together on the dance floor, creating cherished memories to last a lifetime. With a family-friendly atmosphere, our discos feature a mix of tunes catering to all ages, ensuring that every member of the family can enjoy the rhythm of the night.

New

Year’s Eve Celebrations events

From the bay side to the dancefloor, there’s plenty events on offer as you bring in 2025, here are just a few options for the biggest night of the year.

Start your night with more free evening entertainment and take in our spectacular Floating Christmas Tree Sound and Light Show (8:30pm - midnight) as well as the stunning Christmas themed Christmas Projections on City Hall (8:30pm - midnight).

Other events and activities will be added here as more information becomes available. Sign up for the Events Geelong Newsletter

Do you have a New Year’s Eve or Day event that is not listed here...?

List your event for free and it will be added to the list.

This event is supported by Barwon Water.

When

31 December 2024

Contact: City of Greater Geelong

Email: events@geelongcity.vic.gov.au

Associated organisation: City of Greater Geelong Website: www.geelongaustralia.com.au/events Follow us: http://www.facebook.com/eventsgeelong http://www.instagram.com/eventsgeelong

So put on your dancing shoes and bring the whole family for a night of fun, laughter and fantastic beats at Club Italia’s Family Discos.

Ticketing

Children under 3 enter free, and child tickets (12 and under) are available. Grab a special offer: $15/adult, $10/kid for 10 or more tickets (call us to book).

Inform us of dietary needs, book before the cutoff, and arrange group seating by calling our office. No roller shoes allowed. Note: Menu may change; strictly no refunds. Join us for unforgettable celebrations!

TICKETS

So put on your dancing shoes and bring the whole family for a night of fun, laughter and fantastic beats at Club Italia’s Family Discos.

Ticketing

When: 14 December 2024, 06:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Where: Club Italia

Wadawurrung Country, 515 Bellarine Highway, Moolap VIC 3224

Contact: Antonella Fiorenza

Email: info@clubitalia.com.au

Phone: +61 3 5250 2349

Associated organisation: Club Italia Website: http://www.clubitalia.com

Carols by Candlelight Geelong

Studio of Voice End of Year Concert

Join us for our End of Year Concert, where our amazing students will showcase their hard work and love of singing! We can’t wait for you and your loved ones to enjoy an afternoon with us filled with beautiful vocals and fun performances.

Children under 5 free on parents lap

BOOK ONLINE

or alternatively call to speak with our friendly staff.

When 15 December 2024

Contact

Associated organisation: Studio of Voice

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

The City of Greater Geelong is partnering with the Y Geelong to celebrate the 61st year of the traditional Carols by Candlelight Geelong. This family friendly staple on the community calendar is free for the community and hosted in Johnstone Park on Monday 23 December at 6.30pm.

Enjoy the great food from our many food truck vendors or pack a picnic to share with family and friends. Bring your picnic rug, Christmas cheer and come celebrate in the heart of Geelong.

The program consists of:

• 6:30pm: Children’s Pre- Show entertainment - KF Dance

• 7:30pm: The Main event featuring local artists, Milla Best, Cam Henderson, Alannah Farrar, Chelsea and Ari Gibb, the Mik Maks and the Cast from Footlight Productions and a very special visit from Santa!

Email: events.geelong@ymca.org.au

Phone: +61 3 5223 2714

Website: https:// carolsbycandlelightgeelong.org.au/ Follow us: https://www.facebook.com/ carolsbycandlelightgeelong/ https://www.instagram.com/ carolsbycandlelightgeelong/

Please join us for a fun filled morning of conversation, connection and celebration. This fantastic event gets bigger each year, come and join in the fun with your community!

Complimentary tea, coffee, light finger food, live music and SANTA!

All welcome!

This is a FREE event partially sponsored by City of Greater Geelong.

This event is part of the Christmas in Geelong program.

When

18 December 2024, 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Where

Vines Road Community Centre

Wadawurrung Country, 37-61 Vines Road

Hamlyn Heights VIC 3215

Contact Sally-Ann Muller

Email: info@vrcc.com.au

Phone: 03 5277 9027

Associated organisation: Vines Road Community Centre

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

Follow us:

https://www.facebook.com/VinesRoadCC/

https://www.instagram.com/ vinesroadcommunitycentre/

Museum Explorers: Around the World at Christmas

magine if you were Santa following his magical journey around the globe in one night from the Aussie Outback to the North Pole. Where will you land and what Christmastime tradition would you celebrate?

Combining storytelling, puppets, songs, crafts and lots of Christmas fun, the program leads children through the Museum on a journey of discovery and imagination that showcases the many ways that Christmas is celebrated across the seven continents of the world. Come and experience the magic of Christmas complete with all the trimmings.

Suitable for 2 years+, one free adult per booking.

Book Online

Revive pre-loved clothing market

Get ready to Revive! Revive pre-loved clothing market are returning to Barwon Heads on Sunday 8 of December. We have an amazing selection of stall holders selling their high quality second-hand garments, so you can score some unique pieces to add to your wardrobe.

everyone at Revive!!

Whether you’re a thrifting enthusiast or just looking for a sustainable shopping experience, this event is perfect for you.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to revamp your wardrobe while helping to save the world from textile waste.

When 08 December 2024, 10:00 AM - 02:30 PM

Where

Barwon Heads Community Hall

Wadawurrung Country, 77 Hitchcock Avenue Barwon Heads

Revive is a curated pre-loved market where over 40 stylish local women are selling their pre-loved clothing, shoes and accessories at prices you will love. There will be a huge range of on-trend and designer brands in a wide range of styles and sizes. There will be truly something for Contact Website: www.revivemarkets.com.au/

Follow us: www.facebook.com/revivemarkets www.instagram.com/revivemarkets

Handel’s Messiah | Melbourne Symphony Orchestra 2024

Handel’s greatest oratorio celebration is still as potent today as it was at its premiere more than 280 years ago.

Inspiring joy and wonder from both firsttime listeners and those who’ve made it a yearly tradition, Messiah will have you singing ‘Hallelujah!’ all the way home.

Ticketing

You can purchase tickets here

This event is part of the Christmas in Geelong program.

When 07 December 2024, 07:30 PM - 10:00 PM

Contact: Box Office

Email: boxoffice@geelongartscentre.org.au

Phone: 1300 251 200

Website: https://geelongartscentre. org.au/whats-on/all-events/handelsmessiah-melbourne-symphonyorchestra-2024/

Christmas Nights at The Carousel

Enjoy a special evening experience at Geelong’s magical Carousel. Ride the horses, participate in craft and enjoy the Christmas atmosphere.

In addition to The Carousel’s planned activities, you will also be able to experience the family-friendly Sound and Light show on our iconic floating Christmas tree.

Ticketing

Bookings not required, entry into the Carousel pavilion is free. Those wishing to enjoy a ride on the Carousel will need to purchase a ticket onsite.

This event is proudly presented by the City of Greater Geelong as part of the Christmas in Geelong program.

Ticketing

Bookings not required, entry into the Carousel pavilion is free. Those wishing to enjoy a ride on the Carousel will need to purchase a ticket onsite.

This event is proudly presented by the City of Greater Geelong as part of the Christmas in Geelong program.

When

Various dates from 14 December 2024 to 21 December 2024, 05:30 PM - 08:30 PM

Where The Carousel

Wadawurrung Country, 1 Eastern Beach Road, Geelong VIC 3220

Contact Leah Wolfe

Email: carousel@geelongcity.vic.gov.au

Phone: +61 3 5224 1547

Associated organisation: The Carousel

Website: http://www.geelongaustralia. com.au/carousel

Follow us: http://www.facebook.com/ TheCarouselGeelong

Ladbrokes Geelong Xmas party races

Looking for something fun to do with your team this Christmas? Join other Geelong businesses at the Ladbrokes Geelong Christmas Party race day.

Ticketing

Lots of package options available to suit your budget from shaded umbrella packages to private marquees or 3 course Christmas lunch with drinks. Head to the website for more information.

When

13 December 2024, 12:00 PM - 06:00 PM

Contact: Lynda Lister

Email: hello@grc.com.au

Phone: +61 3 5229 4414

Website: www.country.racing.com/geelong/ calendar/christmas-party-race-day

Follow us:

https://www.instagram.com/ geelongracingclub/ https://www.facebook.com/ GeelongRacingClub

Dangerfield Provides Update on Opening Day of Pre-Season

Patrick Dangerfield provided an update on some key teammates as the Cats returned for pre-season on Monday

PATRICK Dangerfield expects to line up alongside Bailey Smith at the opening bounce of next season, urging the boom recruit to express himself in a revamped Geelong engine room.

Smith’s high-profile trade to the Cats was due in part to his frustration at a lack of opportunity in the Western Bulldogs’ starstudded midfield.

But Dangerfield believes that is the position where the versatile 23-year-old will have his strongest impact for Geelong, which takes on reigning premier Brisbane in the season opener on March 6.

“I think he’s that inside midfielder and has the ability to break the lines,” Dangerfield told reporters on Monday.

“He averages a lot of inside-50s, and I think that will really benefit the group we’ve got in and around the ball, so that’s where I’d see him playing.

“We just want him to be himself, to be honest.

“It’s not so much conforming to how we want to play - we want him to play to his strengths and for that to benefit us as a team, so we’ll sort of find out what that is over the next two months.

“You have an idea because you see him and you play against him, but it’s not until you pull on the guernsey together and you sort of understand the running patterns and where he likes to get the ball and all those sorts of things.”

After missing the entire 2024 season because of an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear, Smith joined his new teammates at Deakin University on Monday for their first official pre-season training session.

“Day one, I’m sure there were a few nerves there, but it was great to see him in the Cats colours finally,” Dangerfield said.

“But he’s been around the traps for a bit now, so while it’s formally day one, the guys have been going for a few weeks now.

“He’s obviously coming back from an ACL, so the challenge with him is sort of pulling him back because he wants to get into it all.

“Obviously it’s a new environment but we’ll make sure we’re not cranking it up too high too early because it’s a long season.”

On top of Smith’s addition, Geelong’s midfield is also set to be bolstered by the return of two-time best-and-fairest winner Cam Guthrie.

The 32-year-old ball-winner has managed just 10 games since the Cats’ 2022 premiership because of a succession of injuries, but is well-placed to have a greater impact next season.

“Cam Guthrie will really be like a new recruit for us,” Dangerfield said.

“He was hampered with his toe into a bit of Achilles stuff (last season).

“He’ll be really important, he looks fit and looks like he’s enjoying it a bit.

“It can get a grind in the season when you’re trying just to get back and then you fall short.

“He looks like he’s in great shape and he always prepares himself well but it’s nice to see him smiling.”

Dangerfield also expects Mitch Knevitt to be among the younger brigade breaking into the midfield, following players including this year’s best-andfairest winner Max Holmes, Jack Bowes and Tanner Bruhn.

“He’s a really big, powerful player and I can see him playing some really good AFL footy,” Dangerfield said of 21-year-old Knevitt, who has played 14 senior games in three seasons.

“He looks in great nick, so it’s (about) building that consistency throughout the pre-season and backing yourself in that you’re good enough to play at the level.”

Dangerfield battled hamstring injuries last season but said his body was feeling good ahead of his 18th campaign, having signed a fresh two-year contract in October.

The 34-year-old is expected to retain the Cats’ captaincy, saying he enjoys the role, but the leadership group will not be formalised until the new year.

A Look Ahead to the AFLW Trade & Draft Period

The 2024 AFLW Trade & Draft period is fast approaching, see an update on all the key dates and times

Recapping Geelong’s 2023 Trade and Draft Period

TRADE (THREE-CLUB SWAP)

Geelong Received – Bella Smith, Pick 32, Pick 41

Geelong Gave – Annabel Johnson, Pick 36, Pick 57

DRAFT

Pick 18 – Chantal Mason

Pick 23 – Bryde O’Rourke (Father/Daughter Selection)

How the Draft Works in 2024

THE AFLW’S first fully national draft will be held on Monday, December 16.

The 2024 Telstra AFLW Draft will be the first time in the competition’s history that all players will be eligible to be drafted to any club across the country.

Previous drafts were state-based, due to the part-time nature of the competition, but an average 20 per cent increase in remuneration for AFLW draftees as well as the recent introduction of relocation allowances have paved the way for a fully national draft.

2024 AFLW Trade Period

The 2024 AFLW trade period will run from Thursday, December 5 until Wednesday, December 11

Last season saw 41 players move clubs, including an unprecedented 11-player trade.

A restricted free agency period will run alongside the trade period from Wednesday, December 4 until Thursday, December 11.

A player who has previously been signed on a one-year deal and is offered another one-year deal by the same club but at a lower payment tier than the previous contract is considered to be a restricted free agent. If another club offers this player

a payment at or above their previous payment tier, the player is able to move to that club as a restricted free agent during this window.

Clubs can pick up players who have been delisted by other clubs via the delisted free agency (DFA) period which also runs from Wednesday, December 4 until Wednesday, December 11. A second DFA period will be open for just two days following the conclusion of the trade period.

KEY AFLW PLAYER MOVEMENT DATES

• Monday, November 4: First Rookie Signing period opens

• Wednesday, November 6: AFLW Draft nominations open

• Wednesday, November 27: AFLW Draft nominations close

• Wednesday, December 4: Restricted Free Agency and first Delisted Free Agency Period opens

• Thursday, December 5: AFLW Trade Period opens

• Wednesday, December 11: AFLW Trade, Restricted Free Agency and first Delisted Free Agency periods close

• Thursday, December 12: First Rookie Signing period closes; second Delisted Free Agency period opens

• Friday, December 13: Second Delisted Free Agency period closes; 2024 Telstra AFLW Draft order finalised

• Monday, December 16: 2024 Telstra AFLW Draft

• Monday, February 3, 2025: Supplementary Signing Period opens

• Friday, February 28, 2025: Supplementary Signing Period closes

Geelong United Welcomes BASE Compression

Geelong United WNBL is thrilled to announce its official partnership with BASE Compression, a premier Australian brand known for its cutting-edge athletic compression gear.

This collaboration represents an exciting milestone for both organisations.“Partnering with Geelong WNBL is a proud moment for BASE,” said BASE Compression CEO, Roger Hawke.

“As an Australian brand, we are excited to stand alongside Geelong United, supporting the team through every stage of their performance and recovery.”

BASE Compression’s gear, carefully designed to boost athletic performance, spans a wide range of products tailored for training, game day, recovery, and travel.

Through this partnership, Geelong’s WNBL players, performance staff, members, and fans will experience the benefits of BASE Compression’s innovative technology.

What’s Happening... Your guide to Christmas at Westfield Geelong

As trees and decorations go up, festive food hits the shelves and magic starts to fill the air - it really starts to feel like Christmas. As the home of Christmas, Westfield has everything you need to make the festive season extra special.

We’ve compiled this ultimate guide to Christmas at Westfield Geelong, including how to book your Santa Photography session, Christmas opening hours, local Christmas events and more.

Christmas opening hours

We’ve extended our opening hours in the lead up to Christmas so you have more time to shop. Plan ahead and shop at a time that suits you.

See our Christmas opening hours

Santa photos

Create a Christmas memory and book your Santa photo at Westfield Geelong. Bookings are essential for Santa Photography, Pet Photography, and Sensitive Santa Photography sessions so book online to secure a time that’s convenient for you. Our sessions can book out quickly, so book in early to secure your spot!

Find out more

Exciting Christmas events & activities

Rudolph’s Breakfast

Saturday, 14 December | multiple sessions

Book in your little one’s spot for a magical morning with the jolly man in red! They’ll dive into a scrumptious brekkie, followed by entertainment for the whole family. Seats are limited so book in early to avoid missing out.

Find out more

Win with 12 Days of Gift-mas

Near Cotton On

From 1-12 December, Westfield members have the chance to WIN instant daily prizes with our 12 Days of Giftmas. Prizes include Christmas LEGO, Rare Beauty product from Sephora, Endota hand & body wash, reusable cups from Country Road, Nike drink bottles and more!

Find out more, coming soon.

Live Christmas Performances

Get into the festive spirit and enjoy local community performances and live entertainment! With a focus on perpetual motion and the joyous, upbeat energy of the season, this performance schedule really does have something for every person to enjoy.

Find out more, coming soon.

Chance to win with our ultimate $10k gift bundle

Throughout December you have the chance to WIN the ultimate $10k gift bundle with prizes from Mecca, Rebel, David Jones, EB Games and more!

Find out more, coming soon.

We’re making Christmas easier

Gift Wrapping

You’ve done the hard yards of finding the perfect Christmas gifts, so let us help by taking care of the wrapping.

Find out more

Still stuck for Christmas gift ideas?

Let them choose their perfect gift with a Westfield Gift Card. Physical Westfield Gift Cards can be purchased from our concierge desk at all Westfield Shopping Centres. Westfield Digital Gift Cards can be purchased online and delivered straight to their inbox.

What’s Happening...

Book your Santa photo session now and secure a spot to meet the man in red himself.

Sensitive and Pet Santa photos also available.

Spaces are filling up fast, so don’t miss out on the chance to share laughter and joy with Santa Claus.

The Original, Market Square.

Welcome to Market Square Shopping Centre – your premier destination for a delightful autumn shopping experience, nestled in the heart of the Geelong CBD!

Enjoy stress-free shopping with ample parking facilities conveniently located via Yarra St.

For more information on the LED glow stick product recall, head to: Market Square Geelong — Promotional LED glow stick torch | Product Safety Australia

decEMBER 2024

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 the 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 once 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.

When do you consider closing down your SMSF?

RETIREMENT

By Warren Strybosch

Before I delve into this topic, I just want to say thank you to everyone who reads my articles and for those who have supported me throughout this year. I was very humbled to have been placed into the FS Power 50 once again.

(https://www.financialstandard.com.au/ fspower50#website).

The Financial Standard’s Power50 list is made up of the 50 most influential financial advisers in the country according to the readers of Financial Standard and FS Advice - The Australian Journal of Financial Planning.

They search for advisers who have actively participated in industry-based activities, community-based projects and/or other initiatives designed to promote the important role that financial advisers play in the country’s socio-economic future.

Not only did I make it into the FS Power 50 but I was a finalist in three (3) categories for the Australian Financial Industry Awards for 2024, an initiative run by the Institute of Financial Professionals Australia (IFPA). These prestigious awards celebrate excellence and outstanding

achievements within the accounting, superannuation, and financial advice sectors. I was able to attend the awards in late November and won Holistic Advisor of the Year and to my astonishment, walked away as the overall winner as Australian Financial Practice of the Year.

(https://online.ifpa.com.au/2024finalists).

This week I am travelling to Sydney again as I am a finalist across eight (8) categories for the prestigious IFA Excellence Awards. It is one of the most anticipated awards programs of the year, that identifies the top businesses and professionals in the financial services industry across the nation. In 2021 and 2023. I won an award, and last year I was the bridesmaid across four (4) categories. Winning an ifa Excellence Award is a desirable accolade for both individuals and businesses seeking to forge their role in the finance industry and pinpoint professional development and innovation.

Moving on to this month’s article.

When is it time to close down a SMSF?

At least once or twice a year I find myself having a discussion with a Trustee of a SMSF and regarding the closure of their SMSF. Often these discussions take place when the trustees are in their late 70’s or 80’s and are starting to find it burdensome

to keep up with all the regulatory requirements of running their own SMSF. Often, these trustees do not have a financial planner helping them to manage their SMSF affairs and/or the underlying investments, and so all the legal and investment requirements fall on their shoulders.

Whilst it is not a requirement to have a retirement strategy in place when running a SMSF, I encourage trustees to consider putting one in place and to seek professional advice when doing so. I believe it is important that trustees give thought to their futures and to consider the ‘what if’s’ situations that might occur. For instance, what if one of the members pass away? Usually, it is the husband to pass away first and they were the ones managing the SMSF on behalf of himself and his wife. Would the wife be able to continue running the SMSF? What if a trustee has a property in the SMSF and wants to retire but still has debt associated with the property and cannot meet the minimum pension payment requirements? How do they pay themselves a pension? What if one of the members loses capacity to manage the SMSF?

Trustees should reconsider every three years if an SMSF is still the correct retirement strategy for their needs, and

have an exit plan in place, otherwise they might be forced to close the SMSF at a time they did not expect it or want to.

With the rise of industry funds offering low fee investment options and the ability now to purchase shares, exchange traded funds (ETF), and term deposits (TD), there are now alternative options compared to a SMSF for those in retirement.

I am of the opinion that if you do not want to hold property in a SMSF and you are not inclined to invest in highly speculative investments like Crypto and Derivatives, then maybe a SMSF is not the right vehicle for you to use in retirement. As such, I manage a lot of clients share portfolios using industry funds and the returns have done quite well to date. Even so, there are many clients who just love running a SMSF and so our business needs to cater to those with and without a SMSF.

I felt that as an accountant and financial advisor, who also has SMSF financial planning qualifications, that there would be a conflict of interest to do both the tax returns and provide financial planning advice in this space. It made sense to find another financial planner who specialized in this area. As such, I ask Erryn Langley to join the Find Group of companies so that any conflicts of interest would be removed and there would be two sets of eyes on the SMSF accounts, adding extra protection to our SMSF clients.

Erryn Langley specializes in providing financial advice to trustees who own and operate their own SMSF. I liked what Erryn did so much that I convinced her to join my business so that I could concentrate on the tax side of the business when it comes to SMSF, and Erryn could do her magic on the financial planning side of things. Erryn has a great repour with her clients and looks beyond just investments. She prides herself on being on top of all the regulations and implementing strategies that benefit the clients now and in the future.

We work well together.

So, if you are not ready to let go of your SMSF but realise that you might need some help managing it, then Erryn might be an option for you until it becomes all too difficult or your situation changes that having a SMSF is not a realistic option anymore.

Even so, we still would encourage trustees to review their retirement strategy at least every three years. As part of your review, we encourage you to at least know what steps you may need to take if you ever find yourself needing to close down the SMSF. It is better to be informed now rather than feeling overwhelmed later on.

Feel free to reach out to Find Retirement, Find Wealth or Find Accountant if you need help with your SMSF.

Warren Strybosch Award winning Financial Adviser and Accountant

Financial Planning, SMSF, Super, Insurance, PreRetirement & 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

Centrepoint Alliance group (www.centrepointalliance.com.au/fsg/aw).

Warren Strybosch

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

Erryn Langley

Authorised Representative (No. 1269525)

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.

Special Tax Return Offer

$99 Returns - PAYG Only

We have made it cheaper and easier for you to get your returns completed & you can do it all from the comfort of your own home.

Here are the steps involved:

1. Email to returns@findaccountant.com.au requesting your PAYG return to be completed. Provide us with your full name, D.O.B and address

2. A Tax engagement letter will be emailed to you for signing via your mobile (no printing or scanning required).

3. You will be then sent a tax checklist to complete online. Takes less than 5 minutes.

4. We will then require you to upload your documents to our secure portal.

5. Once we have received all your documentation, we will complete the return.

6. We will email you the completed return with our invoices. Once you sign the return and pay the invoice we will lodge the return on your behalf.

• Find Accountant

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• Accounting

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• IT Consultant

• Bookkeeping

• Signwriter

TRADIES - FREE ADVERTISING

Email your artwork to editor@findgeelong.com.au. If you wish us to create your ad, we will do this for a minimal cost.

Go to www.findgeelong.com.au/graphic-design to upload your details and we will create this for you.

The Dimensions of the Ads are:

If you have any questions, contact the editor on 1300 88 38 30 or Email warren@findnetwork.com.au

TRADIES - FREE ADVERTISING

Email your artwork to editor@findgeelong.com.au. If you wish us to create your ad, we will do this for a minimal cost.

Go to www.findgeelong.com.au/graphic-design to upload your details and we will create this for you.

The Dimensions of the Ads are:

If you have any questions, contact the editor on 1300 88 38 30 or Email warren@findnetwork.com.au

TRADIES - FREE ADVERTISING

Email your artwork to editor@findgeelong.com.au. If you wish us to create your ad, we will do this for a minimal cost.

Go

to

details and we will create this for you.

The Dimensions of the Ads are:

If you have any questions, contact the editor on 1300 88 38 30 or

TRADIES - FREE ADVERTISING

Email your artwork to editor@findgeelong.com.au. If you wish us to create your ad, we will do this for a minimal cost.

Email your artwork to editor@findgeelong.com.au. If you wish us to create your ad, we will do this for a minimal cost.

Creative Design

TRADIES - FREE ADVERTISING

Email your artwork to editor@findgeelong.com.au. If you wish us to create your ad, we will do this for a minimal cost.

x 98 mm - 1/8 Small Size

x 96 mm - 1/4 Page Portrait

If you have any questions, contact the editor on 1300 88 38 30 or Email warren@findnetwork.com.au

TRADIES - FREE ADVERTISING

Email your artwork to editor@findgeelong.com.au. If you wish us to create your ad, we will do this for a minimal cost.

Go to www.findgeelong.com.au/graphic-design to upload your details and we will create this for you. Go to www.findgeelong.com.au/graphic-design to upload your details and we will create this for you.

x 96 mm - 1/4 Page Portrait

If you have any questions, contact the editor on 1300 88 38 30 or Email warren@findnetwork.com.au

DECEMBER 2024

watch this space!

A new Face of the Find Cards!

The local public can purchase a Find Cards for $4.99 per month. The Find Card is a mobile Application that members can download it for FREE in their mobile devices. It is available in Apple Store and Google Play. After many years of producing it printing, is now ecofriendly, interactive, easy to use and convenient for the members.

Find Cards consist of various discounted offers that are displayed on the Application.

To access the offers and redeem the deals you must sign up to be a member.

Members will be able to present their Find Cards App Profile to the local participating businesses to gain access to the advertise product or services.

Your membership makes a difference!

Stay a Find Card member for four months and give the two months of the fee to your organisation. Being a member, you contribute almost $10 annual to your chosen organisation when they sign up as a FREE In-kind sponsor.