Ogv 21jan2015 by Ocean Grove Voice

ICONIC SURF SHOP SHUTTING DOORS, PAGES 10 & 11 Jan 21-Feb 3 2015

GRAHAM Mulroney and Phillip Sambler were road testing the Ocean Groves Lions Club’s newest kites with their granddaughters last Wednesday, ahead of the club’s upcoming Australia Day celebrations. Claudia, 6, and Amber, 7, put the kites through their paces during a suitably windy afternoon at the Ocean Grove Park. They will all be at the beach next Monday, flying their kites during the national holiday. Fellow Lions Club member and initiator of the event Colin Lowne stopped by the park that afternoon to check out the kites. “There’s not too many kids playing with kites nowadays; they’re all sitting in front of the TV and playing games,” he said. “Many of them wouldn’t even know how to fly a kite.” Last week the club was busy preparing the materials for 200 kites for children to assemble at Ocean Grove Beach for the event, which is now it’s seventh year. The kites are cheap to make, consisting of garbage bags, cardboard, string, straws, staples and heaps of sticky tape. “It’s creative and they get to have fun,” said Mr Mulroney. “It’s a fun day for the Lions Club, too.” Amber said she was looking forward to flying the kites “because it’s fun” and “no one can touch the kites when they are up the air”. Ocean Grove Bowling Club is also holding its own event on the Saturday night leading up to Australia Day, for a slightly older demographic. Cover band Better Late Than Never, featuring former Essendon champion Simon Madden will play.

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Graham Mulroney (with kite) and Phillip Sambler with granddaughters Amber Mulroney and Claudia Dobson.

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Planning application for Skinners store The old Skinners corner store could become a café and restaurant. Council are currently considering a proposal that seeks approval for the use of the land for the sale of liquor under a cafe and restaurant liquor licence. The land is within the Commercial 1 Zone and is affected by a Heritage Overlay. The application would not alter the exterior appearance of the building except for the replacement of display windows with bi-fold opening windows facing the Terrace and the creation of a doorway

PLANS: application for the sale of liquor access to the area on Hodgson Street. The application also in proposes maximum seating for 80 persons plus alfresco dining on the pavement on the Terrace outside the

premises. The building is very central to the history of Ocean Grove. According to local historian Susie Zada, Martin Guille became the first owner of Lot 155 on the corner

of The Terrace and Hodgson Street - the location of the Ocean Grove 'Corner Store' in September 1888. Later it was taken over by Jane Scott, Robert George Foyster and the Menzies family. Jack and Evelyn Skinner took it over in 1950 and the family remains the landlord. The café application has been submitted by Benjamin John O’Halloran and Samuel David Evans. The shop at 1/82 The Terrace is currently occupied by Leading Edge video.

Jet ski safety crackdown BELLARINE police are conducting several operations in conjunction with water police this summer, targeting unsafe jet skiing and boating on the Ocean Grove coastline and on the Barwon River. “We’ve had quite a number of complaints,” said Leading Senior Constable Howard Dertien of Bellarine Police. “There’s been a few infringement notices issued so far – most of it is speed related.” Maddie Glynn, of Barwon Coast, said five knot speed limits for water users applied from Lake Connewarre and the Barwon River, out to within 200m of the Barwon Heads and Ocean Grove coast, including the Front Beach. The five knot speed limit also applies to 200m from the shore in many other parts of the Bellarine. Ms Glynn said she had

heard reports of jet skiers hooning and speeding in

five knot zones. “It’s in their

best

interest to comply,” she said. LSC Dertien urged jet skiers to observe the speed limits, warning the consequences could be severe if they did not. “If they have a collision with a swimmer it could be fatal,” he said. LSC Dertien said there were a lot more jet skis on the water this summer than during the same time last year. “But as far as infringements go, it’s about the same last year,” he said. “The majority of people on jet skis are well behaved; it’s just a few who spoil it for the rest.” Ms Glynn also pointed out that it's seal season, with many seals hauling themselves onto the beach to relax. She asked beach goers to stay at least 30m clear of seals, or 50m if they have a dog with them. “They are like people; they need to get out of the water for a rest occasionally,” she said.

Councillor Jan Farrell said construction of the new pavilion was on schedule and progressing well. “This will be a great community facility and should be ready in time

for the 2016 winter home and away season,” she said. “Construction is on track and by mid-year people will see the pavilion taking shape.” Work on the site

recommenced last week. “I’m excited for the local sports clubs and their members who will benefit from this fantastic community facility when it’s complete,” said Cr Farrell.

WATER PATROL: Bellarine police will be monitoring boating behaviour this summer.

Shell Road pavilion closer The Shell Road Reserve Pavilion is one step closer to completion, with builders finishing bulk excavation, realigning the sewer and testing the pile footings of the site. Ocean Grove

Grove students ready for swim

Riley Menzies and Ryan McNolty OCEAN GROVE year 9 St Ignatius students Ryan McNolty and Riley Menzies are ready to represent their school in the Queenscliff Blue Water Challenge. They are encouraging other local students from the region to get their school mates together to take on the schools challenge. The Queenscliff Blue Water Challenge, run by the Boroughcoutas Masters Swimming Club, is in its 23rd year. The ‘challenge’ is to complete either a 1.2km or 600m open water swim around the Queenscliff Pier and competitors will hit the waters on January 31. For the first time schools and swimming clubs can compete for the Queenscliff Whitebait Challenge Trophy. As an added incentive and part of the Boroughcoutas commitment to support local junior swimmers in the region, the club is offering $5 per swimmer to their nominated school or swim club. For more information see www.bmsc.com.au.

DSA Hands On day next month THE Ocean Grove branch of the Disabled Surfers Association is hosting its first event of the year next month. The Hands On day will be held at Ocean Grove Main Beach on Sunday February 1. Registration starts at 8.30am. For more information or to be able to use one of the beach wheelchairs contact Mark on 0431-601 760 or Julia on 0413-925 970. Like the DSA on Facebook or see www. disbledsurfers.org.

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Adventure screening at park GET out the chairs and rugs – the first of two outdoor movie nights is set for the end of the month. On Saturday January 31 Ocean Grove Connected Communities will present The

Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert. The event which is supported by onscreen advertisers will also feature a sausage sizzle, the coffee and slushy van and a popcorn, fairy floss and cold drinks

supplier. On March 7 there will be a Surf movie, Chasing Mavericks, As usual, all surf wagons are welcome to come along to the park but they must be in place by 7pm due to health

and safety regulations. The movie night events start at 7pm. If anyone is interested in playing reggae music before the event, please will you contact Michele on 5255 3233 or ads@ oceangrovevoice.com.

Church council chairman Neil Derrick and secretary Dianne Sapwell with the new minister Reverend Doctor Jong Soo Park, his wife Yoomi and their children Helen and Celine.

Welcome to new minister

THE Uniting Church has warmly welcomed its new minister Reverend Doctor Jong Soo Park. The South Korean expat moved to Ocean Grove from Melbourne with his wife Yoomi and two children just before the New Year. Rev Park and his family are looking forward to their new life in Ocean Grove and already his daughters Celine, 9, and Helen, 7, have picked out their favourite aspects of life on the coast. “Fish and chips!” said Helen, when asked about her favourite thing in the town.

Celine loves the beach and is looking forward to learning how to surf and canoe. “I still want to go to the beach, even today,” she said despite the grey sky and steady rain outside. Rev Park hails from the town of Pucheon, near Seoul, which is famous for its yearly animated film festival and peach farming. He studied divinity in Seoul, and then migrated to Australia in 2003, after being contacted by the Korean Church of Melbourne. He was minister at the church for six years and

has been associated with the church for the 12 years he has lived in Australia. Rev Park recently graduated with a doctorate in practical theology at the Melbourne College of Divinity, and has enjoyed living there as well being a part of the city’s tight-knit Korean community. “It’s a beautiful country; I love the parks and the Botanical Gardens in Melbourne,” he said. “I love everything except the flies… so many flies.” Jong Soo met Yoomi in Korea before migrating alone to Australia. A year later, in 2004, he travelled back to Korea to marry

her and returned with her. Yoomi, a former teacher, has also worked in the church and is currently studying theology parttime. Rev Park was contacted by the Ocean Grove Uniting Church last year and said he had a good first impression of the people working there, as well as their reputation for helping the poor. “I want our church to be as connected with local residents as much as possible,” he said. “We want to reach out to the younger generation and young families.”

Burst main causes hole lot of drama POLICE were forced to shut an Ocean Grove road after a burst main left a gapping hole in the bitumen. A traffic mangement team arrived some time after the incident that left the foot deep gorge in

Orton Street earlier this month. Locals said it was the second time this had happened in the week. Contractors later repaired the leak and patched up the road before it was fully opened again to traffic.

Boat theft arrest A 43-year-old Frankston man was arrested in Barwon Heads earlier this month for allegedly stealing a boat from Mornington Marina. Police alleged the man rode his bike from Frankston to the marina on New Year's Day at 5.30pm and stole the 12ft 15-horsepower aluminum dinghy. The man is then said to have sailed out into the bay, reaching the Heads at about 3.30am, before sailing towards the Barwon River, where he was arrested by police at 7.30am. Police said the owner posted on Facebook that their boat was missing, and it was spotted by a friend, who just happened to be holidaying in Barwon Heads at the time. Leading Senior Constable Roger Lawry said he was stunned that anyone would attempt to cross the bay in a 12ft dinghy, let alone during the middle of the night. A man was charged with the theft of the boat and was released on bail to appear in Moorabbin Magistrates Court at a later date.

Fishing report REPORTS from the Ocean Grove Angling Club indicate good catches off Barwon Heads and in the Barwon River on the incoming tide. The club reports good whiting catches in Swan Bay and off Clifton Springs. “There is heavy traffic at the boat ramps at Clifton Springs, Ocean Grove and Queenscliff, so pick the best time,” said club secretary Ron Prowd. “Otherwise you can expect some congestion on launch and upheaval.” As an aid to new fishers in the Bellarine, the Angling Club has copies of its brochure “How to catch a fish”, available at the Voice office and the fishing section of Home Hardware Ocean Grove. The club’s surf competition two weeks ago was cancelled due to lightning and rain.

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WORKING TOGETHER: Left, Warren Chapman of Barwon Coast with 13th Beach Surf Lifesaving Club captain Cameron Shallard and volunteers Lis Perriman and James Symon, boat owners were given free safety checks and advice.

Wind wreaks havoc with boats BLUSTERY winds kept boating enthusiasts at home during Barwon Coast’s boat safety day this month, with fewer people attending the event than last year. Yet a small band of dedicated families,

organisations and enthusiasts braved the conditions to get out on the water and pick up some tips on water safety. “We had fewer people than last year but there was a steady presence throughout the day,” said

Barwon Coast manager of natural resource planning, Warren Chapman. “The wind conditions made boating activities difficult.” As well as water safety, the participants learnt about handling equipment, marine biology and

OCEAN GROVE ANGLING CLUB: Gary Adams, Fred Castellan, Ron Proud and Wayne Henriksen.

protecting the local environment. “We were pleased with the number of families that came along,” said Mr Chapman. Officers from Marine Safety and Fisheries Victoria attended the day,

as well as representations from Barwon Heads Surf Life Saving Club, Ocean Grove Coast Watch Rescue and the Ocean Grove Angling Club. Mr Chapman thanked the organisations that helped during the day.

OCEAN Grove Coastcare's Margot Busch, Barwon Coast's Maddie Glynn, Fisheries Officer Mark Gibbs, OGCC's Brenda Hunter with interested youngsters Jack and Sam Podbury.

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Summer rain drench GROVERS pulled out their umbrellas and ran for cover as torrential rains poured down on the CBD on two different days this month. Shoppers equipped with umbrellas made their way indoors or to the car, while those without crowded under shop

fronts and waited for the rain die down. Barwon Heads Golf Club, the nearest Bureau of Meteorology rainfall station to Ocean Grove, recorded 19.8mm on January 7 and 28.6mm last Tuesday. Club groundskeeper Adam Lamb said the

highest rainfall for January was 101mm in 2011, since the club began recording in 1989. With 62mm collected this month, Barwon Heads and Ocean Grove are on track to record their wettest January in recent memory.

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Crockett Cooke competing in the Rip to River event.

LUKE VOOGT LONG-TIME local Crockett Cooke conquered the waves at this year’s Pier to Pub despite living with a very rare form of motor neurone disease (MND). Mr Cooke competed in the event to raise money for the Motor Neurone Disease Association of Victoria (MNDAV) and has raised more than $2000 so far from the race and other events. “I’ve had donations from people I don’t even know,” he said. “People who are touched by motor neurone disease are very willing to support the cause, as they appreciate

what it’s like.” The 53-year-old swimmer competed in the 1200m Super Veteran event with swimming companion, Melbourne physiotherapist Kerrie White. “That made me feel pretty old,” he joked. “I beat someone though!” Mr Cooke, who has very little function in his legs, was allowed to compete in fins. “Otherwise I just sink,” he said. Mr Cooke injured his shoulder last July, making his achievement even more remarkable. He returned to swimming after treatment, starting with one lap at a time and has

since worked his way up to 1200m a day. Mr Cooke said it was never his goal to compete in the Pier to Pub. The idea came up when he spoke to Ms White’s sister, who works at Splashdown, during his daily swim there. While the distance wasn’t too difficult for the daily swimmer, it took some effort to adjust to the swell and ocean cold. “I took a couple of gobfulls of salt water at the start,” he said. “I haven’t been to the beach in seven or eight years.” Mr Cooke has lived in Ocean Grove and Wallington for 50 years of his life and was diagnosed

Crockett conquers Rip to River event in fine style with a 'long-term fatal' form of the disease. “Most people who are diagnosed have two-anda-half years to live,” he said. While Mr Cooke has much longer to live, his condition is slowly deteriorating and he uses a wheelchair. “I still have my driver’s licence but the writing’s on the wall,” he said. He wasn’t much of swimmer in his “previous life”. “I used to run and play tennis, back when I could,” he said. “I still don’t like swimming, but I like what it does for my body.” Mr Cooke hopes a cure can be found for MND, or at least that quality of

life will improve for those who have the disease, due to the recent increase in awareness and research. He said initiatives such as the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge last year had “increased awareness tremendously” and raised hundreds of millions of dollars worldwide. “The support MND associations provide worldwide is very important,” he said. Earlier this month the Ocean Grove Bridge Club, of which Mr Cooke is member, dedicated an afternoon to raising money for MNDAV, contributing $600 to his total so far. “The bridge club were fantastic,” he said.

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NATURAL ENERGY: Kite surfers making the most of windy conditions at Ocean Grove.

All set for a bumper garage sale OCEAN Grove Uniting Church is hosting a bumper garage sale later this month. The sale at the church on the corner of Eggleston and the Parade will feature bargains for all and runs from 8am until 12noon on Saturday January 31.

TREASURE TROVE: Neil Derrick and Dianne Sapwell get some help from the new church minister's children Helen and Celine Park.

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Grove icon shutting

Murf shutting shop

Darryn 'Murf' Murphy in the early days and larkin with best buddy Dave Boyd.

A BIG piece of Ocean Grove identity will be missing from the landscape by the end of next month. Murf ’s iconic longboard shop will be closing its doors but not its business after 15 years in the town. Fifteen years sounds short for the stamp the shop has made on the town. And it’s not the only surf shop in the Grove. But few would argue that owners Darryn and Julie Murphy have created a unique and valued treasure in this coastal town. Darryn, aka Murf, and Julie said that it was a wrenching decision to make but it was made for family reasons. On top of this, the family has lost several good friends in the last couple of years, among them Murf ’s best friend Dave Boyd. This reinforced his determination for more family time. “It’s not a decision we made lightly – we have been thinking about it for the past six months and the time has come to do other things with our lives,” said Murf. “Our decision was made

purely on the fact that we want to spend more time with our family – two boys now aged 14 and 12. “Running a small business is hard work and it takes a lot of our family time. I spend nearly every weekend working in the shop when I’d rather be spending it with my family. Julie works hard in a full time job as a marine biologist during the week and then has to spend hours at night doing bookwork, rosters, pay etc.” Murf said the shop lease came up recently and they had looked at finding a buyer. However the shop is probably so unique and dependant on the association with Murf that a sale hasn’t worked out, despite it being in a healthy financial position. Local schools and sports clubs will notice the business’s absence as it has been a big community contributor from day one. However, Murf and Julie said they wanted to say thanks to all everyone who welcomed and helped them from the time they set up back in 1999 to all the loyal customers that

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doors after 15 years

for more family time have dropped by since. And the shop has developed into a social drop in for locals and visitors alike. “When we first set up the shop 15 years ago on a shoestring budget we were overwhelmed by the help we received from the local surf crew – including Lou and Chris McSween, Morton and Nerida Hanson, Scotty Wintle, Dave and Kerryn Boyd and Quiffy (Steve) who helped us paint, strip the floors back and build racks etc. I think the locals were as excited as we were about our new venture. “A big thanks to all the members of the SOUL longboard club, 13th Beach Boardriders and Point Lonsdale Boardriders for their support and friendships. “Thanks to all the local traders and small business owners in Ocean Grove – always up for a chat in the street.” The Murf's Surf Shop name will continue as a business which has developed into a successful online eBay store. Regulars will still be able to get their

NEW START: Darryn and Julie Murphy. tees and caps and much of what’s available in the shop. The physical shop will officially close at the end of February. “It’s time for me to have a break, go surfing and have a think about what to do

for the next phase of my life,” Murf said. As Murf stands chatting, about the decision countless drivers give a wave or yell out. "I don't know who will replace the waver," he said.

"There's more waves than waves – if you know what I mean." The shop will continue flying its much relied on windsock from its roof. "The bit I'll miss the most is all the friendships I've

made through the business. But saying that I'll still have them as friends. "The upside is I'm going to have the time to spend with my lovely wife and kids."

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Jack the best Elvis LUKE VOOGT

FORMER Ocean Grove resident Jack Gatto was crowned the King at this year’s Parkes Elvis Festival, making him perhaps the best Elvis impersonator in Australia. Mr Gatto, 23, who spent 10 years growing up in Ocean Grove, credited much of his success in the Ultimate Tribute to Elvis Competition to performing in live gigs in local bars and cafes. “It’s a big musical scene on the coast and everyone appreciates music here,” he said. “The people of Ocean Grove encouraged me to give it a shot.” Mr Gatto confessed he wasn’t originally a fan of the Elvis and only discovered his natural talent for impersonating the King when trying to prove a point to his dad. “I used to think Elvis was no good,” he said. Yet when Jack performed 'Love Me Tender' his father was stunned at how much he sounded like Elvis. “I only did it to prove a point,” he said.

“But my dad was like ‘woah!’". Mr Gatto said a bit of research on the rock god led him to have a greater appreciation for his music and its impact on history. “I realised how good he actually is,” he said. “He’s unreal, it’s more the influence he’s had on the world.” Mr Gatto said some of his friends and family have a laugh at his new-found fame, while “some of them love it”. “When they come to the shows they tend to go a bit far out,” he said. Mr Gatto said he was “gob smacked” when he was announced as the winner at Parkes. “It’s the most fun I’ve had in my life – you get to dress up like Elvis and sing – and people just go crazy,” he said. “It’s funny; people come up to you in the street.” “Some older ladies come up and grab you or give you a kiss.” Mr Gatto thanked Geelong acoustic musician Greig McInerney, who he said encouraged him to perform as an impersonator.

ALL SHOOK UP: Jack Gatto in Ocean Grove last week.

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An aerial view of the performance space.

Space ready in March THE construction of Ocean Grove Performance Space is progressing well, according to Ocean Grove Park Inc president Colin Atkin, who expects it to be “ready to occupy” by the end of March. “It’s all go ahead,” he said.

“We are very pleased with the progress.” Mr Atkin expects the contractor to finish work towards the end of February, which includes the building, as well as installing gas, electricity and water. “It might be a little bit

after that, depending on weather,” he said. Mr Atkin said so far the external cladding had been completed, as well as most of the internal plaster. Once the construction is finished, he said, work would begin on the internal fit-out and

furnishing of the building, as well its kitchen and storeroom. Ocean Grove Park Inc. is currently setting up a committee to operate the facility and Mr Atkin hopes the space will bring a range of different acts to the town and encourage

local artists to perform. “The whole aim of it is to give the community a facility for as wide a range of groups as possible,” he said. “We hope there’ll be small drama groups putting on shows, as well as the schools.”

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Nippers brave the elements Shannon Eckstein with some enthusiastic nippers.

AROUND 40 to 50 nippers from Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club (OGSLC) braved miserable weather earlier this month for a clinic with Australian Ironman Champion Shannon Eckstein at the main beach. Eckstein was happy to teach the nippers in Ocean Grove new skills, despite headlining the Jim Wall ironman race in Torquay later the same

day. “Especially kids as dedicated as this, with the way the water and the weather are today,” he said. The ironman champion held a similar clinic in Jan Juc last year, which was attended by some nippers from OGSLC, and he attends clinics around Australia throughout the year. “It’s great to inspire young kids around

Australia,” he said. Eckstein said while not all the nippers would go on to be elite ironmen and women, the skills learnt in the clinics would be essential if they went on to be lifesavers. “They’ll all be patrolling beaches for life,” he said. “Once you get them into it it’s pretty hard to give up.” The nippers at the clinic were stoked to meet an

ironman champion and were keen to get in the water, despite the rain and choppy swell. “He’s really nice to meet,” said Jolyone Simpson. “He’s really fun and it’s been a good training session.” Tom Kinshott, who has been in nippers since he was five years old, was enjoying “going out the back and catching waves” and said it was nice of

Eckstein to come to Ocean Grove. “I think it’s a bit cold for Queensland people though,” he said. Eckstein was joined by Australian ironman coach Dan NortonSmith, who contacted OGSLC head coach Sonia Kinsey to organise the clinic. “We are privileged to have them here,” said Kinsey.

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Linda Pearce at her shop, Wishfish.

Main street gets facelift Visit us today! Quality toys, games & puzzles available. Family, Grandparent & Carer Memberships available at a fraction of the cost of buying new toys.

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OCEAN Grove CBD has undergone somewhat of a facelift over the last two months, with several businesses changing hands, relocating or opening for the first time. While locals might recognise some of the proprietors, who have been working in Ocean Grove for many years, some have moved from Melbourne or interstate to enjoy the coastal life. Regulars at craft and homeware shop Wishfish might recognise the store’s new owner Linda Pearce, who worked as a manager there for seven years, before working six years in the CBD. Her eldest daughter, who had been working there for a short period of time, told her mother the store was up for sale. “It’s always been a dream of mine to own my own store,” said Ms Pearce. “I know it well because I’ve worked here for a while,” she said. The owner of the newly opened Ocean’s Secret, Lisa Afzal, made the sea change from Dandenong with her four children, after deciding Ocean Grove would be a nice place to live. “We came on a holiday and we just loved the area,” she said.

Ruth Van Eekelen and Lauren Hanson have been part of the recent main street facelift. Just next door Lauren Mrs Hanson has lived Hanson recently opened in Ocean Grove for five her own store, LamiSaru, years and it was time to in keeping with a family open another store at the tradition. site of the old Westpac Her mother started the Bank. business 12 years ago and “We felt like Ocean owns two stores, both in Grove could use South Australia. something like this,” she

said. “We love it here – it’s got a great community feel.” Barwon Heads couple Rod and Mandy Mills are taking on their very first cafe venture, after recently renovating, renaming and reopening the Endless Summer cafe. The couple is enjoying a busy summer at the cafe. “It’s great to meet new people, as well as a few locals that come in every morning,” said Mr Mills. Mrs Mills said the aim of the interior design was to capture the town’s “retro surf culture”. “It’s much more open and inviting now, too.” Originally Rod had worked in an office and he still serves as a fire fighter. “Mandy has always been good at cooking and entertaining, and we thought it would be good to branch out into a cafe,” said Mr Mills. “The other cafe owners in the street have been really welcoming and it’s a really nice street to work in.” “It’s great meeting new people." Hairdresser of 23 years and the owner of the newly opened Edward Beale Salon, Dana Allen moved to Ocean Grove for the surf and stayed for

the lifestyle. “I’ve worked with Edward before and I wanted to own my own business,” she said. The New Zealand expat moved to Sydney then to Melbourne, before finally settling here. “When I moved down from Sydney I used to surf in Ocean Grove,” she said. “I wanted that beach lifestyle for my two kids.” For the last three years Ms Allen lived in Ocean Grove and made the long commute to work in Armadale. Aussie Home Loans moved location to The Terrace a few weeks ago, after opening at the Target complex during April. “It was always a temporary site,” said franchisee Ruth Van Eekelen. This is a much better location.” Mrs Van Eekelen grew up in Anglesea, and worked for a while in Geelong, but she said she much prefers the Bellarine. “Once I started working here I new this is where I wanted to be based,” she said. “I love Ocean Grove, and everyone wants to live near the coast.”

Jeff Lang among top acts set for venue VIRTUOSTIC guitarist Jeff Lang is set to make a welcome return to the Piping Hot Chicken and Burger Shop, paving the way for an exciting line up of early year performers at the venue. Lang has earned worldwide acclaim as a virtuosic guitarist, a dynamic songwriter and a startlingly unique live performer With a back catalogue of 14 studio albums, Jeff's featured at major festivals and venues here and internationally for the past decade. Blending rock, roots, folk, blues, ballads, instrumentals, improvisation and a

devastatingly high level of musicality, he is a singularly distinctive artist. Showered with achievements and awards throughout his career â&#x20AC;&#x201C; including seven ARIA nominations, and three wins, LangÂ´s newest album, I Live A lot In My Head These Days, was released in May last year. Lang will be in Ocean Grove on Friday February 6. Admission $20. Also, book early for a visit by USA harmonica player Phil Wiggins with Dom Turner on March 28 and a welcome return of Marshall O'Kell on April 18.

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Fresh fish and chips at Marketplace OCEAN GROVE Marketplace Fish and Chips was taken over a year ago by Wesley and Cassie, who couldn't resist Ocean Grove's relaxed lifestyle. Wesley is a qualified chef with a certificate 3 in commercial cookery and has an unmatched passion for the food industry, working as a chef at a restaurant in Federation Square in Melbourne and then at the Park Hyatt as assistant chef before deciding to open his own business here in Ocean Grove. Wesley said the business uses local gummy shark, and has a special fryer that can make gluten-free chips and gluten-free grilled fish. Seniors are looked after with a 10% senior discount on every transaction when you show your senior card. If it's freshly cooked fish and chips you're after, then drop in (phone order are also welcome on 5256 2099) at Market Place Shopping Centre, Ocean Grove.

music/live events

• Piping Hot Chicken Shop - Friday February 6 Jeff Lang • Barwon Heads Hotel - Friday January 23 Comedy with Dave Hughes and Dave O'Neil - Saturday January 24 Frenzal Rhomb - Sunday January 25 360 - Wednesdays Master of Dartness & Poker from 7pm - Thursdays Trivia Night 7.30pm - Friday Happy Hour 5-7pm raffle live music - Open mic for youth show under 21s every second month on a Sunday 3pm-5.30pm. More info contact Jill Meehan 0431 606 476. • Springdale Community Centre Hall - Making waves music/ poetry arvo every third Sun of every month 2pm - 5.30pm • Ocean Grove Bowling Club

what’s ON - Saturday January 31 Callan Young - Saturday February 14 Big Love Thief

markets & fairs

• Rotary Club of Ocean Grove Market - first Sunday of month 9am-1pm Kingston Park Reserve. • Bellarine Community Farmers Market - 3rd Saturday of month, 9am-1pm at Ocean Grove Park • Buy Bellarine Produce Barn - Tuckerberry Farm Saturdays and Sundays 9am-3pm

food/wine

• Leura Park Estate Sundays 12.30pm – 4.30pm Live music, sensational food and wines available Ph: 5253 3180 • McGlashan’s Wallington Estate Swan Bay Road Wallington - Open weekends and public holidays 11am -

5pm new release wines, gourmet platters and classic car displays Ph: 5250 5760

get active

• Ocean Grove Recreation Hall, Ocean Grove Calisthenics classes incorporating dance, song, ballet and gymnastics with strength and creativity Ph: 0438-055 679 • Senior Citizens Hall Ocean Grove - Monday 9.15am gentle exercises to music for 55-plus, 10.15am gentle exercises to music for 65-plus contact Marg on 52 551 335 - Monday 6.30 - 7.30pm Yoga with Coralie for the month of January - Thursday 1pm Craft Group - Thursday 6.30 - 7.30pm Yoga with Coralie for the month of January • Uniting Church Hall Ocean Grove - Wednesdays 9am Volleyball, 9.30am exercises to music for all

ages contact Marg on 5255 1335 • Queenscliff RSL Hall - Mondays 1.30pm exercises using chairs for all ages contact Marg on 5255 1335 • Leopold Hall, Bellarine Highway - Tuesdays 7.45pm – 10pm Scottish Country Dance (formerly Ocean Grove) Ph: 5251 3393 • Barwon Heads Community Hall Yoga and dance with Tara Lynch classes for all ages and abilities Ph: 0435 481 920 • Scout Hall, The Avenue Ocean Grove - Wednesday 7pm 1st/2nd Ocean Grove Scout Group Clubs Meet Enquiries Ph: 0422 700951 • Yoga classes in Ocean Grove and Barwon Heads: Beginners, Hatha, Vinyas and Svaroopa Yoga Ph: 0413 955 331 or email Kerryn@bluewateryoga. org.au

reading & writing

• Ocean Grove Library, corner Presidents Avenue and The Avenue. - Wednesdays 10.30am – Toddlertime - Thursdays 11.30am Babytime - Nursery Verses - Fridays 10.30am Preschool Storytime. - First Wednesday of the month 4pm-5pm Chatterbooks junior book club for kids aged 8-12 - Third Tuesday of each month 2.30pm-3.30pm Book chat for adults. All welcome.www. geelonglibraries.vic.gov. au

family fun

• Koombahla Equestrian Park - Tuesday to Friday After school riding programs special school holiday courses available Ph: 52 562 742. • Bellarine Church of Christ Hall 17 Tareeda Way Ocean Grove

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- Saturdays 10-11am Tuesdays 7.30- 8.30pm Ocean Grove Toy Library Borrow a range of toys for children aged six months to six years, open to all families on the Bellarine www. oceangrovetoylibrary. org.au • Uniting Church Ocean Grove - Friday 10am-noon Ocean Grove Play Group Any children 5yrs and under welcome to join a friendly play group large indoor and outdoor area, lots of toys, great craft activities, music and story time contact Chelsea Cole at oceangroveplaygroup@ gmail.com classes & exhibtions • Ocean Grove Neighbourhood Centre Program with a range of courses, classes and fun activities Ph: 5255 4294

classes & exhibtions

• Ocean Grove Neighbourhood Centre Check our program with a range of courses, classes and fun activities Ph: 5255 4294

health & wellbeing

• The Zebra Bar Ocean Grove 1/85 The Terrace Last Friday of every month 1pm-3pm Breast Cancer Support Group (lunch and nibbles). Details Julie Rodger 0435 362 573 or julesrodg@gmail.com. What’s On phone: 5255 3233 or email: journo@ oceangrovevoice. com

Clubs meet Mondays Ocean Grove Bridge Club, 1pm, Marcus Hill Hall, Bellarine Highway end of Banks Road. Also Wednesdays and Fridays 1pm. Phone Marg 5256 2550. Bellarine Table Tennis Club, 7-9pm. (juniors/seniors) at the Memorial Hall, 123 The Avenue, Ocean Grove. Phone 5255 1641. Ocean Grove & District Men’s Shed - Mon, Tue and Fri: 9am to 3pm, and Wed 9am to 12pm, 17 Smithton Grove. Phone Ted Price 5255 2595. Jujitsu, 6.30pm – juniors; 7.30pm – adults, Surfside Centre, Phone Steve 0438 019 991. First Monday of every month Bellarine Fly Fishing Association, 7.30pm, Shannon Park, Shannon Avenue, Newtown. Phone Pat on 0414 959248 or Bruce on 0407 361319 or email bffa@ hotmail.com. Legacy Laurel Group of Ocean Grove and Barwon Heads, 1.30pm at St Peter’s Church Hall, Draper St. Details 5251 2268 or 51542873. Third Monday of every month Ocean Grove RSL, 2.30pm, Club

Grove. Committee meets at 1.30pm, The Terrace. Ocean Grove Garden Club, 1.30pm, Uniting Church Hall, Eggleston Street. Phone Margaret 5255 2848. Bellarine Fly Fishing Association, 7.30pm, Shannon Park, Shannon Avenue, Newtown. Phone Pat on 0414 959248 or Bruce on 0407 361319 or email bffa@ hotmail.com. Fourth Monday of every month Combined Probus Club of Ocean Grove, 10am, Ocean Grove Golf Club. Friendship is our theme. Phone Marianne Rogan on 5256 1619. Tuesdays Bellarine Table Tennis Club, 10am to noon (adults only) at the Memorial Hall, 123 The Avenue, Ocean Grove. Phone John 5256 2489 or Chris 5256 1996. Bellarine T.O.W.N., 5.30pm, Uniting Church Hall, Eggleston Street. Phone Doreen on 5255 2856. Ocean Grove Senior Citizens Club, The Terrace Tuesday 1pm. Also Thursday and Friday 1.30pm. Phone Dianne on 5255 2996

Rotary Club of Ocean Grove, 6pm, Club Grove. Phone 0457 315 900. Barwon Heads Chorale 7.30pm at the Anglican Church Barwon Heads. All abilities welcome to come along for a sing and a laugh. Phone Jo 5254 2670. First Tuesday of every month Ocean Grove Men’s Probus, 10am to noon, Ocean Grove Hotel, Collendina. Guest speakers, make friends. Visitors welcome. Phone Terry 5255 5587. First and Third Tuesday of every month Ocean Grove Barwon Heads Lions Club, 7pm, Moorfield Park, Grubb Road. New Lions most welcome. Phone 0418 524 873. Wednesdays Ocean Grove & District Men’s Shed, 9am to 1pm, 17 Smithton Grove. Phone Ernie 0421 703 368. Jujitsu, 6.30pm – juniors; 7.30pm – adults, Surfside Centre, Phone Steve 0438 019 991. First Wednesday of every month Bellarine Business Women. From 7pm, Suma Park Winery, Bellarine

Highway. For details contact info@ bellarinebusinesswomen.com.au or 0412 199 467 Second Wednesday of every month Parkinson’s Self Help Support Group, 1.30pm, Grove Centre (next to library), Presidents Avenue. Phone Pam 5255 5152 Third Wednesday of every month Ocean Grove on Barwon Probus Club, 9.45am, St Peter’s Church Hall. Fourth Wednesday of every month Ocean Grove Angling Club, 7.30pm, Minerva Close sporting oval club house. Phone Peter 0419 782629 Last Wednesday of every month Cancer Support Group, 10am, Community Health Centre. Fourth Wednesday of every month Ocean Grove Stamp Club, 10am, Senior Citizens Hall, 101 The Terrace. Phone Dianne 5255 1372. Thursdays Bellarine Table Tennis Club, 10am to

noon at the Memorial Hall, 123 The Avenue, Ocean Grove. Phone John 5256 2489 or Chris 5256 1996. First Thursday of every month Ocean Grove Nightlights CWA, 7.30pm, Senior Citizens Hall. Visitors welcome. Phone Faye 5255 4430. Second Thursday of every month Prostate Support Group-Bellarine meets at Ocean Grove Community Health Centre at 1.30pm. Contact John Lee on 5221 8862 for details. Fourth Friday of every month Ocean Grove 4 Villages Mixed Probus Club, 10.30am, Club Grove. Meet new friends, visitors welcome, no waiting list for membership. Phone 5256 1671. Saturdays Bellarine Table Tennis Club, 3-5pm, Memorial Hall, 123 The Avenue, Phone John 5256 2489 or Chris 5256 1996. Coasters Social group. Social events for people of working age. Dining out, movies, trivia, bands/trivia nights. www.groupspaces.com/coasterssocial-group or phone 0411 952 598.

environment

Summer rains a blessing IN THE LAST Issue of the Voice I wrote that I was hoping for some decent summer rain. Well I got my wish, and I feel sorry for all of the people who have been camping in tents over the past week. It hasn't been a great few weeks for birds unfortunately. The Victorian State Government announced that there will be a full 12-week duck shooting season this year from March 21 to June 8. There will be bag limits on the number of birds that can be shot because wetlands are very dry. I can't understand why the barbaric practice duck shooting is still allowed in our state, when other states such as Queensland banned it years ago. According to the state government media release "hunting in Victoria is worth about $439 million according to a recent survey of the stateâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 47,000 licensed game hunters." I'd like to know how this figure is broken down and how recreational shooting can be assessed in dollar terms. What about the cruelty to animals, the impact on the wetlands, the rare species that are shot or maimed? What about the 99% of

The tawny frogmouth triplets.

Victorians (according to the RSPCA) who do not shoot animals for 'recreation'? A few weeks ago two endangered hooded plover chicks hatched on Collendina beach, a few kilometers from the Collendina Caravan Park. The hooded plover volunteers were patrolling the area of the beach that was fenced off as part of the hooded plover family habitat. I was helping out on January 6, and I based myself at the Point Lonsdale end of the fenced off area, as I had been told that the hoodies

were hanging around at that end, even though I couldn't spot them anywhere on the beach. To my horror I looked to the Ocean Grove end of the habitat and a dog was running off lead right through the fenced off area, with its owner just allowing it to run free, despite the many signs telling people that dogs have to be on a lead at all times. I tried to chase the owner and the dog but I'm not as fast as I used to be. Fortunately the hoodie chicks were not injured by this dog, but that very night both chicks

disappeared. I stayed in the habitat until sunset, and they looked good, but the next day they were nowhere to be seen. The hoodie chicks that hatched at Point Lonsdale also disappeared, so it has not been a great season for hoodies at all this year. There are hoodie nests at Breamlea and Bancoora Beach, so if anyone is interested in helping the Hoodie Volunteers you can email me at jencarr@ y7mail.com. I have to end on some good news. The two young kookaburras that hatched on Pete

and Chris's block at Woodlands are fully grown and thriving. The tawny frogmouth triplets in Woodlands are also doing beautifully, as you can see from the photo. The tawny frogmouth nest was in a large gum tree in a block on Woodlands Drive, and then the young and the parents moved to another block about three houses away after leaving the nest. Apparently kookaburras breed from August to January, so they probably will not nest again until spring. I learned from Phyllis's tawnies that they can breed in the summer period so I wouldn't be surprised if they nest again once the triplets are independent. Anyway, good luck to the hoodies, and I really hope that people do take notice of signs and keep their dogs under control. If there was a $1000 fine for every dog off lead I'm sure people would take more notice and maybe care about vulnerable species. Maybe when I volunteer I will issue $1000 fines myself and the money could go towards getting more people on the beach to issue fines. Jen Carr

THRIVING: the young kookaburras are doing well.

Summer

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Summer

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be the first call for services contact us on: 5255 3233

grove business

Simon Beattie and Paul Liistro have formed their new business, Southern Lawn and Garden.

New business in Ocean Grove Southern Lawn and Garden has opened in Ocean Grove. Paul Liistro and Simon Beattie offer a service that ranges from simple gutter cleaning to a full garden clean up all the way up to instant turf installation

and maintenance. They both love their job and have been doing lawn and garden care for the last three years. Simon is a qualified locksmith and had the urge for a career change and Paul is currently

undergoing a teaching degree part time at Deakin Geelong. Paul has lived his entire life in Ocean Grove and knows the town the like the back of his hand while Simon, who has lived here for the past year after he moved

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Remove the Australian Business Quality Awards Logo and #1 banner and maybe put somewhere kinda highlighted â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Gold Award Winner for Customer Service 2014â&#x20AC;&#x2122;

from Canberra The lads have decided to start in Ocean Grove because they both love the town. From when it is quiet and peaceful during the cooler months to the hustle and bustle of the summer, they think it

is a fantastic place to both live and work. They will be always based out of Ocean Grove and the Bellarine but their plan is to expand into Geelong and the Surfcoast too. They are both excited for the challenge that lies

ahead. Outside of work, Simon, and Paul in particular, are sport tragics, particularly footy and cricket. They both enjoy being in the outdoors be it rain hail or shine so this new venture

seems to be a perfect fit. They are looking forward to getting stuck into the work over the next few months and being able to provide a service to such a great town.

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grove sport

Voice sports reporter MARK HEENAN takes a look at what happened in Ocean Grove sport in 2014.

The year that was

January

JANUARY: Ned Weatherly breaks weightlifing record.

Ocean Grove local Nick Wightman wins his third Rip to River title on January 4. Wightman won 10km event in 34:13. Mornington-based Sarah Klein wins women’s event in 38:03 to finish ahead of Ocean Grove’s Sarah James. Ocean Grove main beach hosts its inaugural Wave Warriors junior Nippers carnival. Event was runned by retired ironman champion Zane Holmes. Ocean Grove youngster Ned Weatherly breaks an Australian national weightlifting record in the Under 17 Clean and Jerk at a Geelong Weightlifting Club competition.

February

Barwon Heads claim battle of the bridge bragging rights after it defeats Ocean Grove in their A grade clash. The win seals Barwon Heads place in BPCA A grade finals, while Ocean Grove takes no part in finals. Collendina Cricket Club teenager Logan Taylor at just age 13 claims 5/39 in A grade against Queenscliff. Collendina wins Bellarine Peninsula Cricket Association Twenty20 final against Barwon Heads. The Cobras defeat the Seagulls by nine wickets.

March

Collendina crowned D grade Bellarine Peninsula Cricket Association premiers after it defeats Wallington by 27 runs in the decider. Ocean Grove main beach hosts Victorian Lifesaving Championships. Grove local Mark Graham wins a gold medal in the open ironman event. Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club teenager Kira Kinsey awarded Maurie Raynor Surf Sports Scholarship at the Victoria Lifesaving Championships. Ocean Grove Bowls coach Matt Flapper named in five-man Australian team to compete at 2014 Commonwealth Games in Scotland. Ocean Grove swimmer Michaela Caldow wins gold in Open Girls 50m, freestyle, backstroke and breaststroke and butterfly events at the Geelong Independent Schools Sports Association Swimming Carnival at Kardinia Pool.

April

Ocean Grove Football Club kicks off its 2014 Bellarine Football League campaign. Round 1 saw the Grubbers smash Newcomb by 175 points at Newcomb. Ocean Grove A grade netballers defeat Newcomb 89-17 in round one. Round 2 The Grubbers defeat 2013 BFL reigning premiers Queenscliff in Ocean Grove’s first home match. Former AFL Geelong dual premiership star defender Max Rooke played for Grubbers. Round 3 Ocean Grove is undefeated after three rounds as the Grubbers defeat Drysdale by 35 points. Round 4 Ocean Grove knocks off Torquay under lights at Spring Creek Reserve. Ocean Grove Football Club Under 16 A and B grades kick off their 2014 season with wins in round one. Federal Member for Corangamite Sarah Henderson meets with leading Ocean Grove sporting representatives over funding arrangement of Shell Road sports pavilion project.

May

Round 5 Ocean Grove Football Club defeats a gallant Modewarre by 32 points at home. Round 6 The Grubbers lose to Barwon Heads by 42 points in the club’s first loss of 2014. Round 7 Ocean Grove defeats Portarlington by 67 points at home. Round 8 Ocean Grove suffers a 27-point loss to Geelong Amateur at Queens Park. The Grubbers have a 6-2 record after eight rounds. Ocean Grove Netball Club A grade claims Battle of the Bridge bragging rights after beating Barwon Heads at Barwon Heads by 14 goals. Collendina Cricket Club appoints Ben Ricardo and Corey Walter as its new senior co-coaches for 2014/15 season. Surfside Waves Soccer Club Division Two team claims a 3-1 win against Barwon Red in its first home game of 2014. The 13th Beach Boardriders Club hold their sixth and final event of the 2013/14 aggregate season in near perfect waves at Beacon. Ocean Grove Bowls Club’s Adele Ryan earns Victorian selection to compete in the Australian National Championships for Bowlers using a Bowling Arm. Plans for the Shell Road sports pavillion project facility are released.

H Y T S T L S HEA BEAU FITNE

grove sport

in Grove sport SEPTEMBER: Colts win flag.

October

Wayne Walsh announced as new senior coach of Ocean Grove Football Club for 2015. Ocean Grove topples reigning A grade premiers Barwon Heads. Ocean Grove Football Netball Club announces Ian Walker as the club’s new president. Ocean Grove Football Club lands a key ruck signing with former South Barwon GFL tall Andrew Jarvis agreeing to play in 2015.

November

Ocean Grove Golf Club celebrates the 20th anniversary of its ‘official clubhouse’ opening. Ocean Grove Surf Life Club’s Kira Kinsey finishes fifth in women’s Coolangatta Gold on Gold Coast. Surfside Waves Soccer Club appoints Kevin Bowers as its new president, while Andy Sattler takes on the vice-presidency role. Ocean Grove Netball Club confirms Grubber Candice Parker as its new coach for 2015.

December

Ocean Grove signs former AFL Western Bulldogs defender Ryan Hargrave to play in 2015. Ocean Grove Cricket Club A grade slumps to its fifth loss of 2014/15 season after Jan Juc cruises to a nine-wicket one-day victory at Jan Juc Park. Wallington Cricket Club A grade records first win under new coach Mick Gill. Collendina A grade heads into Christmas break with a 4-2 record after a stirring one-day victory against second-placed Portarlington. Ocean Grove local Nick Wightman wins his fourth Rip to River 10km Classic on December 27. Belmont runner Natalie Mensch takes out the 10km female event.

June

Round 9 Ocean Grove defeats Anglesea by 10 points at Alcoa Oval. Round 10 Grubber goalsneak Daniel Freeman boots nine goals in Ocean Grove’s 179-point demolition against Newcomb at home. Round 11 Ocean Grove inflicts a 51-point defeat win over Drysdale. Round 12 Torquay overcomes Grubbers in a thriller. Ocean Grove Football Club celebrates 20-year BFL senior premiership reunion. Ocean Grove Cricket Club announces Ron Hanson as its new nonplaying coach for 2014/15 season. Hanson takes over from Lucas Cameron, who continues his duties as Ocean Grove A grade skipper. Teenager Toby Walker claims victory at Ocean Grove Golf Club Championships. Ocean Grove Our Lady Star of the Sea grade four student Xavier Eels finishes fourth in 2km run at State Western Region qualifying event at Brimbank Park in Melbourne. MAY: Adele Ryan earns state selection.

July

Ocean Ocean Grove Bowls Club coach Matt Flapper competes at his first Commonwealth Games in Scotland from July 23 to August 4. Club Grove announces new bowls recruits for upcoming season with Ryan Tainton, Lorraine and Shaun Myers all joining Ocean Grove. Ocean Grove junior netballer Taya Payne wins Geelong Flyers under 17 Division 2 best and fairest award. Ocean Grove Netball Club A grade takes out Battle of the Bridge. Round 13 The Grubbers defeat Portarlington by 66 points. Round 14 Ocean Grove wins Battle of the Bridge against Barwon Heads. Round 15 The Grubbers lose a nail-biter to Geelong Amateur by 14 points.

August

SEPTEMBER: Ocean Grove competes in BFL grand final, but goes down to Ammos.

Matt Flapper wins a bronze medal at Commonwealth Games in the men’s fours event. Ocean Grove coach Shane Jack steps down as Grubbers coach after the club’s loss to Queenscliff. Jack stays in role until season’s end. Bellarine Bears lose to Guild Lions in Geelong Baseball Association winter season grand final. It was the Bears first A grade grand final since 2002. Former Ocean Grove netballer Alice Teague-Neeld added to Melbourne Vixens playing roster for 2015. Round 16 Ocean Grove suffers a 53-point loss to Queenscliff. Round 17 Grubber Daniel Maloney boots 10 goals in Ocean Grove’s 89-point demolition of Anglesea. Round 18 Ocean Grove defeats Modewarre by 31 points in its final home and away game in 2014 at Modewarre Ocean Grove overcomes Torquay by 14 points in the BFL senior qualifying final on at Portarlington. Geelong Amateur thrashes Ocean Grove in the BFL senior second semi-final by 111 points at Portarlington.

September

AUGUST: Matt Flapper wins Commonwealth Games bronze medal.

Ocean Grove Under 18 Colts win Division 4 grand final against Torquay at Queens Park. A remarkable turnaround from Grubbers, who were winless after seven rounds with a percentage of 46. Grubber footballer Corey Walter lives the ultimate dream and sends Ocean Grove into the BFL grand final following his goal just seconds before the siren. The Grubbers defeat coastal rivals Torquay in a thriller by five points. Ocean Grove appears in its first BFL senior grand final since 2007 against Geelong Amateur at Torquay on September 13. The Grubbers were soundly beaten by hot favourites Amateur by 91 points. Ocean Grove local Curtly Balshaw is selected to play cricket for Victoria Country in a series of under 19 representative games against Victoria Metro. Surfside Waves Soccer Club suffers a 2-1 loss to Lara in the Football Federation Geelong Region Division Two final.

ALLAN RIGBY

CABINET

MAKER

Kitchens - Cabinets No job too big or too small 40 years experience Bellarine Hwy, Pt Lonsdale 5258 2817 0410 525 820

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grove sport Harriet Brown wins the Jim Wall Ironman.

Kira Kinsey at the Jim Wall Ironman event. All pictures: SUMMER OF SURF

Vic comp for Grovers FIVE Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club competitors will compete for Victoria at the Surf Life Saving Australia Interstate Championships in Sydney this week. Headlining the squad of 24 is 2015 Pier to Pub winner Harriet Brown, who now resides on the Gold Coast, and has previously competed for Ocean Grove SLSC. Brown joins fellow Ocean Grove SLSC stars Kira Kinsey, who also competes for North Burleigh on the Gold Coast and brother Guy Kinsey. Fellow Ocean Grove SLSC youths Lucy

Conquit and Kyle Solterbeck will also compete in the Surf Life Saving Australia Interstate Championships held at Newport SLSC beach on Friday January 23. Held over one day, the competition is state versus state with the battle contested on beach and in ocean. Athletes will also compete at Sydney’s Northern beaches carnival at Manly SLSC on January 24 and Freshwater SLSC on January 25, before they return to Melbourne on Australia Day. MEANTIME Brown won the Jim Wall

Ironman women’s event at Torquay surf beach on Friday January 9. It was a remarkable weekend for Brown, who clinched her seventh women’s Pier to Pub title in Lorne, less than 24 hours later. The Nutri Grain Iron Women series competitor also made time to visit Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club nippers earlier this month and even took them on a training session at Ocean Grove main beach. Former Ocean Grove SLSC pair Kira Kinsey and Cameron Cole along with current Ocean Grove competitor Guy

Kinsey took to the water at Jim Wall Ironman event. Guy Kinsey was the highest placed Victorian finishing in 27th spot. IN other news, Sunday January 11 saw over 600 competitors converge on the beach at Fairhaven SLSC for the third round of the Summer Surf Series. In tough conditions bayside club Half Moon Bay SLSC took home state glory by two points, finishing on 194 ahead of Anglesea SLSC on 192 points and Ocean Grove SLSC on 119 points.

Cameron Cole in action at the Jim Wall Ironman.

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The Voice Business Directory

ACCOMMODATION

Barwon Grove Holiday Rentals Bellarine Getaways Portarlington Beach Motel

CONVEYANCING 0412 102 145 5255 3130 5259 3801

ACCOUNTING SERVICES Ocean Grove Accounting Roche Accounting

5256 2815 5256 2764

Sargeants Conveyancing City to Surf Conveyancing Vines Conveyancing

DANCE CLASSES

Bellarine Academy of Dance

Seaviews Manor

5256 2866

ANTENNAS

Able Antenna Service

5253 1680 0404 019 781

Kendall Antennas & Communications

Point Lonsdale Television

0411 490 430

ARCHITECTS de Atelier Architects

DELICATESSEN

5255 3378

Advanced Denture Clinic Coastal Dentures Dr Alastair McCallum - dentist Geelong Wheelchairs Scoot Mobility Scooters

art’s Kool - kids & teens art classes 0437 582 772

Alterations and Repairs

AUDIO EQUIPMENT, HIRE, REPAIRS

EARTHWORKS

Bellarine Audio

John Ryan Earthworks

ELECTRICIANS

AUTOMOTIVE

Andersons Auto Care Bellarine Auto Services Drysdale Smash Repairs Ocean Grove Automotive (RACV) Parts 4 Automotive Sheen Panel Service

BABY AND CHILD Sandi’s Spot

5255 3884 5253 1644 5251 2322 5255 1050 5256 3210 5256 3183 5255 2943

Bendigo Bank NAB Westpac

5255 4866 5255 0700 5255 0377

BEAUTY SALONS

Mermaids Unisex Beauty Salon 5255 5844 The Smooth Spot 0431 196 007

BIN HIRE Easy Waste

0490 127 849

BRICKLAYING

Glenn Skipper Bricklaying

0438 442 519

BRIDAL WEAR DESIGNER Isabella Design

5255 2034

BUILDING DESIGNERS

Binder.Peart Design Pty Ltd 0437 463 125 Michael Higgins Building Design 5255 3355

BUILDERS & NEW HOMES Beechmore Building Solutions Geelong Homes Homes by Chapman Hotondo Homes Le Maistre

5250 4638 5222 5522 0414 752 159 5255 3556 5255 1309

BUTCHERS

5256 1633 0409 553 022 0416 165 855 0412 103 980 0419 888 277 0402 637 781

Laker Engineering Ocean Grove Engineering Ian Pattison Jewellers

5254 1828

CARPENTRY/MAINTENANCE Dream Maker Constructions Mark Pattison Carpentry Moore Carpentry & Bld Maint

CARPET CLEANING Carpet Cleaners Geelong

0409 700 229 0410 454 822 0411 061 556

Coastal Business Services Core Financial Planning Crowe Horwath Lighthouse Business Services

5255 3392 5255 9555 5255 5077 5221 6507 0409 359667

FLOORING

Bellarine Flooring Drysdale Carpet Court Tile Boutique

5255 2044 5253 1855 5255 2212

FLORISTS

Beachside Blooms

5255 3030

FRUIT & VEG

0414 408 528

Graham Coates Carpet Cleaning Service 0408 526 997

Stanley Steamer Carpet Cleaners 0428 520 525

CARPET CLEANING/REPAIRS Kim Brasier’s Carpet Services

0418 376 820

CELEBRANTS

5255 3599

FUNERAL DIRECTORS GARAGES

Greater Geelong Garages

5255 5500 5221 4788

0414 607 453

GARDEN & HOME MAINTENANCE Budjet Mowing & Garden Cleanups 0404 530 008

Creecy’s Excavating Hey Mr Mower Man Jim’s Mowing Ruby’s Mowing Ocean Grove SD Turf and Garden

0414 525 392 0420 205 572 13 15 46 0419 583 154 0433 652 640

Steve's HandyMan & Carpentry Service 0497 331 788

Tim's Handyman Service

Leslie Ridgeway Wedding & Funeral Celebrant

0407 410 393

CHIMNEY SWEEPS

GLAZIERS Bellarine Windows, Doors and Glazing

0426 897 479

GOLF CLUBS

CLEANING SERVICES

0418 429 438

COMMUNITY GROUPS

Frenchy’s Coastal Glazing

5256 2050

COMPUTER SALES & REPAIRS

0411 416 384 0413 967 051

13th Beach Public Driving range Lonsdale Golf Club Ocean Grove Golf Club Portarlington Golf Club Smith Attrill Golf Academy

A Touch of Class Remedial Massage 5255 5137

Bellarine Allied Health Group Bellarine Podiatry

5256 3642 5256 2019

Bellarine Remedial & Sports Massage 0417 331694

Epic Health Medical Clinic OG Chinese Medicine OG Remedial Massage Centre Ocean View Massage Seaside Serenity Massage

5256 2500 0432 961 910 5255 3358 0414 893 719 0403 956 900

Bellarine Hire

5255 1344

Stitchery Blue

HOME LOANS

Smartline Mortgage Brokers

5255 1177 0418 384 104

INTERIOR DESIGNERS

0425 710 784

RETAIL

Bellarine Furniture and Bedding Kairos in Grove Knock Knock Homewares Montanas Fashion & Accessories The Last Piece

ROOFING

Coastal Roofing Dabcon

0438 861 271 0418 519 078

0448 541 221 5254 2622 5258 1955 5256 2795 5259 2492 5254 2622

Cleo Fine Jewellery Ian Pattison Jewellers

5256 3990 5255 2019

LAWYERS

Coulter Roache Lawyers Vines Lawyers Whyte, Just & Moor Lawyers

0418 329 765 0438 861 271 5254 1877 5255 4411 5222 2077

LEADLIGHTS & REPAIRS Carl Davies Leadlights & Repairs

MORTGAGES

Smartline Mortgage Brokers

NURSERIES McOuats Nursery

OFFICE SUPPLIES Press Here

OPTOMETRISTS

Greg Sly Optometrist Ocean Eyes Optometrists

5258 3193

0418 384 104 0418 526 200 5255 2663 5256 1295 5255 5655

PAINTERS

Steven Flynn Painting Services 0411 126 291 Wallington Painting Services 0438 019 991

PETS

Surfcoast Dog Grooming

PHOTOGRAPHERS Barefoot Media Photography

5255 1336 0400 721 185

PLANTATION SHUTTERS GB Plantation Shutters

PLASTERERS Beaton Bros Bells Interior Lining

PLUMBING

Annandale Plumbing Ocean Grove Plumbing W H Plumbing and Gas

PRINTERS Paxton Press Press Here

REAL ESTATE

All Coast Property campbell potts Hayden Real Estate Kerleys Coastal Real Estate

0400 595 738 5255 1236 5256 3260 0408 037 686 0430 443 700 0430 112 102 5255 1548 5255 2663 5255 3130 5258 1579 5255 1000 5256 2255

LJ Hooker Ocean Grove - all hours 0418 551 435

Permanent & holiday letting RT Edgar

5255 3233 leigh@oceangrovevoice.com



0487 673 232 5255 4099

5255 2288 5255 3688 5255 3370 5259 1422 5221 5991

5255 2732 0466 613 038

Posilock Locksmiths Sectrol Security Sylont Watching Service

0418 587 275 0409 943 671 0419 529 623

SHOE SHOPS Mudge’s Shoes

5255 1257

SHOWER SCREENS Fast@Geelong

5222 1332

SPORTS Tennis Fanatics Coaching

0418 145028 5255 5525

Nathan Hovey Landscaping & Maintenance 0411 571482

Outdoor Vision Landscaping Tim’s Pruning & Landscaping

5254 3376 5250 6056 5255 1540 5255 2772 5255 1122 5255 3040 5255 1566 5256 1944 5256 3094 5255 1959

SECURITY & LOCKSMITHS

5255 2019

FLOOR SANDING & POLISHING

Tuckers Funeral & Bereavement Service

HEALTH & WELLBEING

SURFSHOPS LANDSCAPE DESIGN & CONST’N Murfs Longboards Surf Shop

0413 580 990 0407 694 422 0409 222 112

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Bellarine Memories

0438 019 991 0416 266 607 5255 2572

Beachhouse Elkhorn Roadhouse Leleans Restaurant & Functions Michel’s Patisserie Ocean Grove Hotel and Bistro Ocean Grove Pizza and Pasta Piping Hot Chicken Shop The Dunes The Groove The Kingston

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junior cricket

Snakes beaten in close one UNDER 15s The Cobras travelled into Geelong for this round eight one day clash against Geelong City Russell at Eastern Park 2. The under 15 Emond division has a real log jam at the top of the ladder. Heading into this round the top team is on 33 points while the eighth team is on 27 points. Fortunately, the Cobras are in the mix sitting in 5th position on 27 points. Their opponents sit one position below them also on 27 points. A win was crucial. The Cobras won the toss and elected to bat. Sam Walsh and Nathan Pearson got things off to a solid start. The openers put on an opening partnership of 35 when Walsh was caught for 10. Pearson was joined by Logan Taylor. Both batsmen had to be retired with the reliable Pearson making 37 and Taylor a fine 33. After a mini collapse the emerging Ronan Healy (22) and debutant Patrick Smith (34 not out) propelled the score to a competitive 156 off 29 overs. Pearson started the

defence with a fine spell taking 2/23. All-rounder Healy took 2/19. Sam Walsh took one wicket but the boys from Geelong City passed the Cobras total in the last over. The closeness of this game probably reflected both teams' positions on the ladder but the Snakes were on the wrong side of victory. They will still be in touch of finals action but will need to win the next one. UNDER 13s The under 13s hosted Thomson in a postChristmas one day tussle at the Snake Pit. The under 13s don't often get to play at the pit so they were be keen to perform on the big stage. The Cobras sit in sixth position on the ladder, but like the under 15s there is a big jam at the top. Top of the table South Barwon is on 27 points, eighth placed Jan Juc is on 21 points. Thomson sits second on 27 points so a win here would bring the Cobras right into the mix. The day didn't start well with the early resumption of the junior fixture. The Cobras were

two short with Tanner Keast a late withdrawal due to illness and Isaac Hale having to head to Melbourne. Tom Gross and Jack Every had to be dragged from their beds to help out. Thomson won the toss and elected to bat. The ever reliable opening combination of Cam Egan and Kobe Annand got things off to a good start. Egan took 2/3 off three overs. Charlie Every took one important wicket and Joe Doedel chipped in with one wicket of his two overs. The standout with the ball was the silky Rory Quinn who took 2/6. Malcom Bayliss and Izack Terhorst cleaned up the tail. The score to beat was 68. Again, Egan (23) and Annand (22) started the Cobras off on the right track. Xavier Norman was cautious with a well made 10. The total was never a problem and the Cobras made it to a very impressive 3/101. This great win puts the Cobras in a great position and finals action is not out of the question.

Harry Ukenstein batting for Ocean Grove under 15s. Pictures: LINDSAY KELLEY

Matthew Stanic bowls for Ocean Grove under 13s.

Xavier Norman hits out for Collendina under 13s.

Joe Doedel bowls for Collendina under 13s.

Young Grubbers return after New Year break Under 17 Everett Division, round 8 Ocean Grove vs Highton at Belmont Ocean Grove won the toss and decided to have a bat, making 1/124 off 24 overs with Harry Walker getting 50 retired and Jake Le Maistre making 21. They then went out for a bowl and got Highton 7/96 off 25 overs. Leading the charge once again was captain Le Maistre,

getting a remarkable 5/14 off his six overs, assisted by Zach Walter with 1/8 and Walker with 1/13. It was an outstanding start to the New Year and good to see the older boys leading. Under 15 OG 1 Emond Division, round 8 OG 1 vs Alexander Thompson at Memorial Reserve Alexander Thompson won the toss and batted The boys got them 8/66

with Bailey Le Maistre getting 2/6 and Matthew Stanic 2/11. They then went in for a bat and made 5/81 with Charlie Walter getting 27 and Fletcher Long making 14 not out. Under 15 OG 2 McMahon Division, round 8 OG 2 vs St Josephs at Elderslie Reserve St Josephs forfeited the game so the boys had to miss out this week.

Under 13 Agg Division, round 8 Ocean Grove vs Barwon Heads at Shell Road Barwon Heads won the toss and batted. The Heads made 2/76 off 26 overs with Noah Cunningham getting 1/ 4 and Ayden Dunell 1/12. Grove then went out for a bat and made 6/84 with Nathan Down making 21 retired and Taliesin Platt 13 retired.

grove bowls

No shortage of talent Blue Hills Rise Mixed Pairs 2014

There was no shortage of talented lawn bowlers on display at the recent Blue Hills Rise Mixed Pairs at Ocean Grove Bowls Club. Future stars of the sport took to the greens to contest the $3000 mixed pair’s event. With about 22 of the 72-player f ield having represented their state at various times and 11 current under 18 state reps there was no shortage of quality bowls. Six teen-year-old Tiffany Brodie from Keysborough Bowls Club along with her partner Jay Bye Norris from Essendon Bowls Club took the honours after the six games to be the only undefeated side left standing. Brodie is no stranger to the big stage only just recently making her debut in the under

18 Victorian team in Tasmania as well as having four Australian Indoor Bias Bowls National titles to her name. Needless to say she has a massive future in the game. The best of the teams that won f ive from six games were Terry Thomas who unfortunately had to retire after game four with a bad back and was replaced with fellow Ocean Grove star Nick Doyle who partnered Pauline Skinner from Bundoora to take the runners up prize. Ocean Grove husband and wife pair Shaun and Lorraine Myers continue to form a formidable combination on the greens as they were next best in third place on f ive wins but 13 shots back from second place. Fourth place went to Echuca’s Veronica and Russell Kelly while Carol and Jeff

Howarth made their trip worthwhile from Tuggeranong Valley in the ACT to take f ifth place. Rounding out the top place getters Amelia Bruggy (Bendigo) and Michael Sims (Trevallyn TAS) slipped in for some cash taking out the sixth prize.

C h r i s t m a s Medley 5 A Side Wild weather and tumbling bench seats could not stop the running of the annual Christmas Holiday Carnival 5 A Side. Tournament Director Reg Hungerford assembled 16 teams to take part in the event. At one point the day was nearly called off due to rain and wind storms however the lunch break was perfectly timed and play was able to continue after the break. Prior to the commencement of play all players

assembled on the green to form a tribute to the passing of John Virtue. John represented Ocean Grove on 375 occasions in Pennant and unfortunately lost his battle with illness on Boxing Day. Ashley Vesty, Lorraine Myers, Shaun Myers, Joan Tennent and Will Takurua enjoyed and dominated their third day out on the greens over Christmas to take out the winner’s prize undefeated on six wins from six matches and 103 points to their name. Waubra’s favourite son Peter Goldsmith teamed up with his mum and dad Gwen and Keith along with Ocean Grove’s Lorraine and Bob Hunt to win f ive out of their six matches to make sure that was enough to secure second place f inishing on 90 points.

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BRIGHT FUTURE: Tiffany Brodie in action.

Tiffany Brodie and Jay Bye Norris with David Morison from Blue Hills Rise and Matt Flapper from Ocean Grove Bowling Club.

grove tennis

Stephanie Golightly in action at Warrnambool. Steve Vicary serves.

Successful Warrnambool trip EACH year in January the Warrnambool Country Week Tennis tournament is held and many Ocean Grove families travel down to compete and have a great holiday. This year was no exception with around 50 Ocean Grove locals making the trip. Monday and Tuesday had great weather, however, major rainfall on the Wednesday afternoon and Thursday meant that the competition was cancelled and the teams that had the best results at that time were named winners of the event.

Representing Ocean Grove this year were four teams from Men, Ladies and Juniors. In B Grade, Graham Schmidt’s Quicksilver’s have been coming down for many years and once again had great success with a win. Team players included Graham, Rod Heinrichsen, Rick Wilkens, Darryl Duckett, Mark Thomas and Steve Vicary. The ladies team made up of Stephanie Golightly, Emily Kehagias and mother/ daughter duo Danielle and Brooke Vigilante also had success, winning the competition for

their section. A brilliant result due to the added difficulty of playing, as men, in the Men’s B Grade. In A Grade David Franks and Barry Golightly came to the tournament without a four and quickly had two members from Geelong Lawn help them make a team. It was a strong section and they had success in some matches but did not win the event. After a mix up with teams in the Men’s B Reserve, three juniors Zane Beazley, Rhiley James and Ethan Franks

were left short but were able to compete when a friend from Highton, Callum Hodge, joined the team. The boys really lifted over the three days showing tenacity and skills not seen previously during the season. Those that attended the event say that it was a bit quieter this year but still a great week. Next year they would like to see a lot more families attend and make it something really special. The dates for next year are January 11 to 14. For more information about putting a team together for this event please

speak to Donna James, or Jen Franks from Ocean Grove Tennis Club. Even if only one or two family members want to play they will help to put teams together for next year and can suggest some accommodation options. A reminder that Saturday competition recommences on January 31 and Tennisfanatics Tennis Coaching returns on Monday February 2. Results compiled by Jen Franks. Go to ‘David Franks Tennis Coaching’ Facebook page for results, tips and more information.

Claire Emma McCarthy Riley

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grove soccer

Madi Wilding

Indiah Lily Van Galen Wardley

Jasmine Pickett

Talisha Sparks

Introducing Waves' 'magnificent seven'

Surfside welcomes bright young stars into new women's soccer team SURFSIDE WAVES will field a women’s team this year and the Voice takes a look at seven bright prospects – what makes them tick and what their goals are for the coming season.

Indiah Van Galen

Beginning with the youngest gun Indiah, 14, experienced her

f irst taste of open women's soccer last year at Drysdale, at the tender age of 13. Under the guidance of her coach Steve and

mentors Cath and Chris, Indiah has been described as a De Vannaesque player with pace, skills and the determination that belies her age. I n d i a h ’ s aspirations are to be a Matilda. Preferring the wing where her pace often embarrasses defenders twice her age, this youngster holds Messi and Ronaldo as her heroes and has been inspired by watching the W-League and the recent World Cup competitions.

Madi Wilding

15-year-old Madi is also an ex Surfside junior player who again left the club last year to join Drysdale after Surfside was unable to f ield a side. An excellent goal keeper, Madi is equally well equipped to defend or play in the midf ield. Madi would love to one day represent Victoria but her immediate goal is to be better than the player in front of her. Madi’s favourite player is Matilda’s goalkeeping star Lydia Williams.

Talisha Sparks

Talisha, another 15-year-old, has previously played for Kardinia International College and Drysdale. An apprentice sweeper to Bridge Wallace, ‘TJ’ has picked up things so quickly and does a tremendous job at the back. Her all-time hero and inspiration to play is Melbourne Victory’s Archie T h o m p s o n , especially since she has met him several times. TJ admires how hard he works and his love of the game. An aspiration for next year is to score a goal, so watch for a foray up forward from defence.

Emma Riley

Also 15, Emma, is a pocket rocket swift midf ielder who can defend and play on the wing, but she hates playing up forward. An all round sportswoman who also plays for Ocean Grove Tennis Club and completed the recent Rip to River 10km in a time of 48 minutes. An ex Surfsider

who played as an under 14, 15 and 17, Emma spent last season at Drysdale taking out the club’s coaches award easily. Inspired by her team mates and friends who she plays alongside, Emma’s goals are to continue improving her skills and meet some new friends.

Claire McCarthy

Claire is 17 and from Point Lonsdale and is a welcome defender whose striking of the ball is tremendous. Claire is happy to try the midf ield as well; she has a great awareness of space and is an absolute perfect f it for this team. Inspiration for Claire is anyone who strives to pursue their passion and her goals for the year are to improve her skills, maintain her f itness and make some new friends.

Lily Wardley

Also 17 is Lily, another ex Surfside Waves junior. She is rapt at the prospect of returning as a senior player. An outstanding defender who

also excels in her schooling as she prepares for year 12 at Matthew Flinders having already completed three year 12 subjects last year, Lily was honoured to have been named sports captain for the 2015 school year. Also a volunteer for surf lifesaving patrols, Lily also helps with water safety for the Nippers program.

Jasmine Pickett

Jasmine is another 17-year-old ex Surfside Waves junior who is thrilled to be returning as a senior player. Preferring a defensive position but versatile enough to play anywhere in the back half, Jasmine is a tremendous asset to the team, hard working and determined with some fantastic skills. Jasmine’s goals for the 2015 season are to get f it, increase her skills and meet some new people. Jasmine’s favourite player of all time is the Argentine genius Lionel Messi who inspires her along with her dad Andrew, who is a pretty f ine player himself.

grove sport Ocean Grove netballers Emily Moroney, Sue Moroney, Gill Hodgson and Nikita Page.

Kev Nolan, Geoff Cunningham, David Schwarz and Ian Walker.

Coming together to fight ice OCEAN Grove footballers, netballers and committee members turned out in support of recognising community drug awareness at a sportsmans night earlier this month. The Grubbers joined forces with Barwon Heads and Leopold Football and

Netball Clubs to raise community awareness about the drug ice at the Italian Social Club in Moolap on Friday January 9. Up to 450 people attended including media personalities and former AFL footballers Billy Brownless, Cameron Mooney and

David Schwarz, based in Barwon Heads, who were guest speakers at the event. Comedian Andrew Startin and Coodabeen Champion Greg Champion also provided light entertainment. Former Grubber president and Ocean Grove Football and

Netball Club delegate Geoff Cunningham, who helped organise the event, was pleased with the club’s input. “I was very happy with the Ocean Grove Football and Netball Club turnout on the night – it was good to see many local faces in the crowd,” Cunningham

said. Now in its second year, the annual sportsman's night focuses on tackling drug, health and alcohol issues in the wider community. The night featured a presentation about the drug ice from Penington Institute’s Crios O’Mahony, while

Family Drug Support’s Debbie Warner told the audience her experiences of living with a family member suffering from drug addiction. “The drug ice is a problem in the wider community,” Cunningham said. “What we try and do

is raise community awareness for a specif ic problem in the region. “Last year’s event helped promote mental health, gambling and drug awareness. “Each year there is a different topic.”

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Price range: $500-550 Ros Green 0448-510 140 3 bed, 1 bath, 2 car (g), 2 living Land approx 833m²

Sought-after old Ocean Grove spot THIS relaxed coastal property, set in soughtafter old Ocean Grove, boasts many great features for a variety of investment options. The substantial floor plan is an excellent addition to a rental portfolio, an ideal family beach holiday home, or the bones of a grander design. The large allotment conjures thoughts of further development or subdivision (subject to council approval). Set near to the beach, schools, the Marketplace and The Terrace, this convenient and established location has a quintessential coastal vibe – a highly desirable attribute of the old Ocean Grove lifestyle. As is, the home

boasts lovely indoor and outdoor living zones privatised by large front and rear yards. The north facing alfresco space comes complete with elevated, sundrenched deck and a spacious outdoor room pergola with builtin fireplace. Memorable summer evenings with plenty of friends and family are on offer here. The alfresco area flows to the huge backyard lawn and provides an excellent, secure play space for kids and pets. Indoor living spaces include a generous living room, sitting room (or office) and dinning space, all graced with wide floorto-ceiling glazing and neutral easy-care decor. The kitchen accesses the rear deck and offers lovely

timber work surfaces and abundant storage. Modern stainless steel Westinghouse appliances include; fanforced oven, gas cook top and dishwasher. Bedrooms are queensized all with built-in robes. Wet areas are fresh and functional. The bathroom offers bath, shower and separate toilet. The laundry with deck access. Split system air-con and an electric wall heater assist comfort throughout. There’s lots of parking. The detached double garage provides two undercover parks and workshop space. Five further off-street parks on the driveway can accommodate guest vehicles, a boat or caravan.

4 Kestral Place, Ocean Grove

grove sport

Ironwoman puts nippers through their paces OCEAN GROVE nippers had a special guest early this month, when ironwoman Harriet Brown dropped in to take a training session. “It was great to see her back in town again providing the nippers with some valuable training tips,” said Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club's Nicole

McNaughton. “Harriet very generously took time out of her busy schedule to take training, as she was also once a nipper at Ocean Grove.” Brown competes in the Nutri Grain Iron Woman series, and was in town for a few days to compete in the Jim Wall Iron Woman race and the Pier to Pub, which she won for an

amazing seventh time. “Harriet is a wonderful role model for the young nippers and has lots of avid fans amongst the group,” said McNaughton. “The OGSLSC would like to thank Harriet for her incredible generosity and support of the nipper program.”

Harriet Brown with Grove nippers Lexie McNaughton and Jemima Asher. Pictures: SUMMER OF SURF

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grove surfing

Surf education day a success OGSLC column OGSLC Surf Ed was a big success. This year we had just over 300 nippers participate in our popular Surf Ed program. It was great to see so many new nippers and

families taking part in the program. We had more than 60 under eights doing the program which is great for the future of the nippers program. A big thank you to all the coaches, water safety, barbecue helpers and parent volunteers who

make this program a success every year. A very special mention to our Surf Ed Coordinator, Cheryl Mahoney, who did an excellent job coordinating the program. Well done and thanks Cheryl. The Surf Club will continue to be busy

through February and March with the LSV Junior Carnival being hosted at Ocean Grove on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 February and the State Titles at Ocean Grove on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 March. We encourage people to come to main beach to

support the surf club and watch some excellent surf sport competition during these carnivals. Paid Lifeguards at Ocean Grove main beach continue through until Monday 26 January. After then, our volunteer patrols continue on weekends

and public holidays until Easter. Remember to swim between the f lags. After rescheduling our annual door knock due to intense heat, we would like to thank the community for their donations on Saturday 17 January. If you

missed out on Saturday and would like to make a donation to the club, please send cheques to PO Box 486, Ocean Grove or call into the club during off ice hours â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Thursdays and Fridays between 9am and 5pm.

cobras cricket

Collendina opener Eddie Ellwood in action.

Dean Britt is bowled to end the game with Collendina one run shy of Ocean Grove's score. Pictures: LINDSAY KELLEY

Cobras left shellshocked MARK HEENAN

THE Cobras A grade finals’ hopes took a hit after Collendina crashed to a shock one-run loss in their two-day match against Ocean Grove on January 17. Collendina was in the box seat at stumps on day one at 0/31 after rolling the Grubbers for 138 on January 10. Then at 2/94 in a stunning turnaround the Cobras bats collapsed as Ocean Grove claimed the

visitors last eight wickets for only 43 runs. Collendina co-coach Ben Ricardo was at a loss to explain how his side was dismissed for 137 from 54.4 overs. “I am pretty gutted, I could not fault our performance with the ball on day one,” Ricardo told the Voice. “It is a bit of a worry at the moment with our batting, we just haven’t hit our straps all season. “I don’t think we have made over 200 yet. “The batting has not

Collendina 137 (C. Kavaliunas 29, M. Davies 22) lost to Ocean Grove 138 (D. Britt 3/21, N. Walter 3/40, C. Lamb 3/48) top of the order more clicked this season.” Collendina’s highest than the guys at the end,” score this season with bat he said. Ricardo paid tribute is 192 against Barrabool in to Ocean Grove strike round three. Dan Roddis Ricardo, who defended bowler his lower order batting who tore heart out of line-up after they almost Collendina’s batting lineclaimed victory in a up with figures of 6/44 seesawing finish, said the from 19.4 overs. “Dan is a good bowler,” top order batting needed to capitalise on their starts. Ricardo said. ON DAY ONE of “We had four guys that got starts at the top of the the game last weekend, order – blame us at the Cobra star Nathan Walter

showcased his bowling talents after he claimed a three-wicket haul. Walter finished with 3/40 from 14 overs and collected three maidens and took the key wickets of Dean Gills (37) and Darren Roddis (20) and Ocean Grove stand in skipper Dan Roddis (0). It was Walter’s first major wicket-haul at BPCA A grade level. “He swings the ball both ways which is a handy thing to have in your arsenal,” Ricardo said. “His control with the

ball is getting better all the time. “He is a gun player and he will get plenty more opportunities to bowl.” The 21-year-old was forced to shoulder extra responsibility with ball in absence of speedster Andy Higgins. DESPITE the loss, the Cobras have amazingly held onto fourth position with Collendina, Jan Juc (fifth), Barrabool (sixth), Barwon Heads (seventh) all on 24 points apiece. Eighth-placed Queenscliff which is 22

points, can also make the finals. This Saturday, the Cobras, who are 4-3 after eight rounds, face a must win home twoday clash against Jan Juc at Collendina Recreation Reserve. Collendina then plays two challenging fixtures against fellow BPCA A grade finals contenders Anglesea, which is in third spot, in round 10 and Barwon Heads in round 11.

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grove cricket

Match winner

Thomas Kent provided superb support to Dan Roddis with 3/60.

Dan Roddis took 6/44 to spearhead Ocean Grove to a thrilling win against cross-town rivals Collendina. Pictures: LINDSAY KELLEY

The Grubbers celebrate a wicket.

Roddis stars in Grove win MARK HEENAN

Ocean Grove 138 (D. Gills 37, B. Fendyk 36) def Collendina 137 (Dan Roddis 6/44, T. Kent 3/60)

OCEAN Grove A grade stand in captain Dan Roddis produced a stunning sixwicket haul in a pulsating end to its two-day clash against cross town rivals Collendina. Chasing 139 for victory, the Cobras stumbled to be all out for 137 to lose by one run as euphoria erupted for Grubbers at Ocean Grove Memorial Recreation Reserve. Roddis took the final wicket after he cleaned bowled Dean Britt (4) on January 17 as the lowly Grubbers posted their second victory in 2014/15. The 24-year-old left-arm strike bowler was at his destructive best with four of his six wickets bowled. Roddis who claimed 6/44 and collected seven maidens from 19.4 overs, described the win as the most satisfying in more than 15 years of cricket. “That was probably for me the best win I have ever played in six years here at Ocean Grove and 15 years back

playing cricket at home in the UK,” said Roddis. “Quite easily the best performance as a team all together I have ever played in.” Not to be outdone, Grubber spinner Thomas Kent was also a shining light with ball after his figures of 3/60 from 24 overs. Kent, who worked in tandem with Roddis, was instrumental late in the innings as he tied down the Collendina batsmen to great effect. Roddis praised Kent after fellow Grubbers bowlers Robbie Procter, who suffered a back injury, and Paul O'Donoghue (side strain) had limited impact with ball on day two. “TK was great,” he said. Earlier in the game, Collendina dismissed Ocean Grove for 138 on day one. Grubber veteran Dean Gills (37) and teammate Brad Fendyk (36) were the best performers with bat.

The win snapped a fivegame losing streak for Ocean Grove, which is 2-5 after eight rounds, and has replaced Wallington in ninth place on the A grade ladder. The Grubbers' last A grade victory was against Barwon Heads in a one-day game on October 4. Ocean Grove A grade will meet Newcomb in its final home fixture for 2014/15 at Memorial Recreation Reserve. Roddis is confident the Grubbers can end the season strongly with four wins from upcoming away fixtures against Drysdale in round 10 and Wallington in round 11. “It has been a difficult year, it really has,” he said. “The batting has let us down this season. “I think we should beat Wallington and Newcomb and I think we can push Drysdale all the way."

Sport Ocean Grove

NIPPERS IN TRAINING, PAGE 43

Track focus Family affair

Nick Wightman (right) came runner-up in the Lorne Mountain to Surf. Picture: MARK DADSWELL

MARK HEENAN

Craig, Gavin, Jeff and Anthony Berry before play on Saturday. Picture: LINDSAY KELLEY

THERE was an extra strong Berry flavour in Collendina 1’s D grade clash against Queenscliff on Saturday. It was the first time all Berry brothers Gavin, 47, Anthony, 41, Craig, 48, and father Jeff, 71, had played in the same cricket team together. Gavin, stand-in Collendina D grade skipper, said his side’s dwindling numbers meant it was an easier task to convince father Jeff, who turns 72 next month, to don whites against Coutas. “It was quite easy when I rang my dad up and said we’re short and we needed players,” laughed Gavin. For the record the Cobras won by six wickets.

OCEAN Grove runner Nick Wightman will shift his attention to the track after success in the region’s fun runs across the Christmas and new year period. After wins in the 10km Rip to River Classic on December 27 and 8km Bells Bash in Jan Juc on January 2, Wightman finished second at the 8km Mountain to Surf event on January 10. Wightman who turned 30 this month finished the Lorne–based 8km race in 23:20, 15 seconds behind Brenton Rowe. “I was pretty happy with the three races, it would have been good to win the last one in Lorne,” Wightman told the Voice. Wightman said a topsix finish at next month’s World Cross Country trials would allow

sport news 5255 3233 – sports@oceangrovevoice.com

him to compete at the World Cross Country Championships in China on March 28. The World Cross Country trials will be held in Canberra on February 8. “The top three automatically get selected from the trials, but they can take six runners,” Wightman said. it has been a busy month for Wightman after he competed in four fun runs across the wider Geelong region in the space of 14 days. The champion middle distance runner also claimed a secondplaced finish at 5km Dawnbusters Fun Run in Geelong on December 31. “Within two weeks I had four races, so every few days I had a race,” he said. “I didn’t expect to win all of them because you get a bit tired.”