Geelong Coast Magazine Summer 2015

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contents 7 Watch This Face Leopold’s Eleni Anastasopoulos makes a wish for children less fortunate.

10-13 In Conversation Georgia Chara on finding fame and potential pitfalls for young actresses.

16-19 Coming to Australia Former asylum seekers on their successful transitions to life in Geelong.

22-25 Summer Entertaining The Beach Kitchen of Jan Juc’s Kelly Lowden provides some tasty ideas for summer.

28-29 Gordon designs The cream of Gordon TAFE’s annual student creations go on show.

26-39 Hot Stuff Great fashion ideas for a breezy summer in Geelong and on the coast.

40-43 Local Love Kirby Rumsey and Darcy Hughes tie the knot with oodles of local style.

48-49 Local Sounds The diverse musicians who make up World Reggae Jam. 52-55 One Photo A Day Lynden Smith’s exquisite images of local landscapes bathed in morning light.

EDITOR’S LETTER STARS shine in the night sky – and sometimes among us as well.

And this summer edition of Geelong Coast (GC) is full of these stars; people just like us who shine for all sorts of reasons.

It’s a veritable galaxy of local faces with stories to tell, pasts to recount and futures to write.

GC covergirl Georgia Chara is the traditional type of star, shining brightest in the dramatic arts.

Georgia tells Emily Iannello about her growing portfolio of work on screen and stage, stretching all the way from TV’s Wentworth to the ABC’s Ricketts Lane and beyond.

But despite her success so far, Georgia remains a Geelong girl to the core.

“Geelong is great,” she enthuses to GC. In another corner of our cosmos, Rasoul Omid stars in a very different lifestyle.

After fleeing the violence of Helmand, one of the most dangerous provinces of Afghanistan, Rasoul is forging a new life with his wife and three young children in suburban Highton.

He wants to share his story with GC readers, “We are Hazaras. And we are all Australian,” Rasoul says.

Then Grovedale’s Lynden Smith shines on through captivating landscape photography.

Rising before the sun to capture the morning’s early light falling across the region, Lynden’s images frame local landmarks in their greatest glory.

“Nature has a way of presenting itself,” he explains to GC. “It’s all about capturing that magical moment.”

58-59 History Repeated The Pile family’s journey through war and peace.

And this as well as so much more is captured in the summer edition of GC.

62-63 Summer Wines Bottoms up with Clyde Park and Santa & D’Sas.

Happy reading.

70-72 Home Bodies Heather McFarlane-Kolb reveals her stunning collection of homewares from around the world.

Geelong Coast magazine is a Star News Group/Geelong Independent publication.

Tony Galpin MANAGING EDITOR

Geelong Coast Magazine is printed on environmentally friendly paper.

MANAGING EDITOR: Tony Galpin WRITERS: John Van Klaveren, Emily Robinson and Alana Mitchelson PHOTOGRAPHY: Reg Ryan, Louisa Jones, Greg Wane CREATIVE: Creative Services Manager: Chris Beale Graphic Designers: Mark Dinnie, Virginia Hester ADVERTISING: Advertising Manager: Steve Clark steve.clark@gcmagazine.com.au Sales Executive: Marianne Valitutti marianne.valitutti@gcmagazine.com.au

Printed using vegetable based inks on FSC ® certified paper under ISO14001.

Environmental Management System framework. FSC ® Chain of Custody certification ensures traceability and verification of paper from well managed forests throughout the manufacturing process to the end user.

www.gcmagazine.com.au facebook.com/gcmaggeelongcoast @GeelongCoast ISSN: 2200-6605 ABN: 55 006 653 336 ACN: 06 653 336

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GEELONG COAST MAGAZINE Level 1, 78 Moorabool Street, Geelong 3220 (03) 5249 6717 (03) 5249 6700 All material appearing in Geelong Coast magazine is subject to copyright unless otherwise stated or it may rest with the provider of the supplied material.

Geelong Coast magazine takes all care to ensure information is correct at the time of printing, but the publisher accepts no responsibility or liability for the accuracy of any information contained in the text or advertisements.

Views expressed are not necessarily endorsed by the publisher or editor.

Seaview Gallery ƋƵĞĞŶƐĐůŝī

EMMA HACK EXHIBITION 16-31 JANUARY 2016 1206438-PB48-15

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THIS

season YOU SHOULD

Visit Seaview Gallery’s summer show SEAVIEW Gallery has put together a kaleidoscope of colour and diversity for a stunning summer show.

The Queenscliff gallery also has fantastic gift ideas and inspiration for Christmas, including hand-blown glass, bronzes, ceramics and jewellery in a range to suit all tastes and budgets.

January features Seaview’s annual Emma Hack Exhibition, once again featuring a one-off piece by Emma as well as her stunningly beautiful new works, ‘Bloom’.

Guests can meet Emma at the exhibition opening from 2pm Saturday 16 January.

Seaview Gallery is at 86 Hesse Street. Phone 5258 3645.

Add glass to your great outdoors NOTHING enhances an outdoor environment quite like the fantastic glass balustrades and pool fences from Modglass.

Modglass has an extensive range of glass and aluminium pool fencing that adds value to homes.

Glass pool fences are particularly appealing because they don’t impact the beauty of the water with unsightly steel bars or mesh.

They’re available in a large range of powder-coat colours and all come with frameless, self-closing gates which meet Australian safety standards.

Glass balustrades appeal for their uninterrupted views and for being a safe way to go about fencing either at ground level, or on a balcony or deck.

Modglass is at 2 Capital Drive, Grovedale. Phone 5222 2252.

Check out amazing Steel Art STEEL Art’s new premises at 16 Baxter Road, North Geelong, is the largest showroom of its kind in Victoria.

The man of steel behind the unique pieces of art, Daniel McDonnell, has been busy installing large sculptures around the region and interstate for high-profile clients.

One of the most eye-catching commissions Daniel has fulfilled is a huge steel flower in a pot at Geelong Flower Farm.

Daniel’s industrial art has become a hit in gardens, living spaces and businesses around the region.

Everything from modern rustic-looking furniture, to outdoor settings, garden edging and decking gets the Steel Art treatment.

Daniel can bring to life clients’ own designs – nothing is too big or too small – and also has lots of unique gift ideas.

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watch

THIS

face

ELENI Anastasopoulos is making a wish.

But the object of her wish is less for herself than it is for others.

The Leopold teen reached the national final of Miss Australia International 2016, with judging held in Sydney in November.

But the focus of her campaign was the fundraising efforts she organised in support of Make A Wish Foundation.

Eleni says she entered mainly as a vehicle to continue her community work, with her fundraising efforts focussed on Make A Wish Foundation.

She held make up parties and high teas as part of a series of fundraisers for Make A Wish.

“I’ve been supporting them for two years now,” Eleni says.

“It’s about working with the community and fundraising more than anything. It’s less about the person and more about making a difference.”

November’s event was Eleni’s second successful pageant, having reached the finals of Australia’s Miss Teen Galaxy previously. She raised $14,000 for Make A Wish Foundation to win the quest’s Miss Teen Charity Australia at the 2014 national finals.

“I like to do a different quest each year and learn different skills and meet different people,” Eleni says.

She decided to take on the quests deliberately to overcome a lack of confidence she felt in public situations.

“I’ve enjoyed dressing up since I was a little kid but I never had the confidence to go out, or meet new people. It was a weak point. I pushed myself toward it.

It,s about working with the community and fundraising more than anything...

“Entering the quests means I had to find the courage to go up on stage, to do the swimwear section, to do the gowns section.”

Eleni says coaching on how to walk while making eye contact with an audience had helped her prepare for going on stage in a large auditorium.

“The support I received made a big difference, both professionally and from my family and friends.

“My mum has been right in my corner and the rest of my family and friends have been by my side the whole time.

“I don’t think I would have been able to do it by myself, it was really out of my comfort zone.”

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…

Charles Rose’s Arum design ring This exquisite ring is a signature piece of Charles Rose. Featuring baguette and brilliant-cut diamonds surrounding an emerald-cut diamond, its hint of art deco style with glamorous, classical design makes a bigger impact than expected for the price.

Arum is available from $6900 at Charles Rose, 98 Moorabool Street, Geelong.

… The Ebony Forest The Ebony Forest offers traditional and contemporary home decor.

Opened just 12 months ago, the Newcomb-based business caters for a variety of tastes across all age groups.

Owner Andrea Coltish’s range includes artwork prints, ceiling lighting, cushions, vases, ornaments and indoor sculptures.

With an indoor cafe area, customers can take a seat and relax with a coffee after browsing the store.

The Ebony Forest opens 9am to 5pm weekdays and 9.30am to 2pm Saturdays, with extended hours before Christmas.

The Ebony Forest is at 48 Watsons Rd, Newcomb, phone 5248 7661 or visit its facebook page for more information.

…

Clarinda’s Cupcakes The creativity of Clarinda’s Cupcakes is limited only by the imagination.

Clarinda creates a range of 3D cakes, cupcakes, cake pops and cookies for every occasion.

She offers a personal touch, speaking with customers to suggest customised decorative designs.

Schots…Home Emporium Schots Home Emporium’s vault concrete bench is an attractive and versatile bench created from light weight concrete and steel.

The industrial-style bench is sure to add charm and elegance to any personal space as a statement piece.

The lightweight concrete is made from combining cement and natural jute-type fibre.

With steel-bar reinforcing, the bench and its range-mates come pre-sealed with a water-resistant acrylic sealer.

Schots Home Emporium is at 299 Melbourne Road, North Geelong, and 400 Hoddle Street, Clifton Hill, phone 1300 693 693 or visit schots.com.au 8

“A lot of wedding cakes elsewhere are mass-produced and lack finesse.

No two cakes of mine are the same,“ she says.

Clarinda’s specialty is a vanilla pudding cake, while her mud and white chocolate and raspberry cakes are popular.

Christmas cupcakes are on special in December.

Phone 0421 336 495 or email clarindascupcakes@gmail.com for more information.

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[in] conversation

Georgia Chara EMILY ROBINSON discovers a young local star juggling a bright TV career with a deep affection for her home region.

AS A GEELONG GIRL, NOW 28, WHAT WAS YOUR EXPERIENCE GROWING UP HERE? I love Geelong, that’s why I’m still here. I went to Bellbrae Primary School and then to Sacred Heart College.

I’ve had a lot of different jobs and worked at a lot of businesses in Geelong. I’m still living in Geelong and doing retail on the side.

DO PEOPLE EVER RECOGNISE YOU? Yes they do. I don’t have a problem when people want a chat but find it a bit rude when people want a photo and then walk off.

I’m all for chatting but when people do that I get a bit confused, it’s quite bizarre. I don’t really know what to do, sometimes I feel like saying you can’t have a photo without saying hi and introducing yourself (laughs).

MAYBE PEOPLE JUST DON’T WANT TO BOTHER YOU? Yeah, I actually considered that maybe people felt like that the other day. But, personally, I’d feel more uncomfortable asking for a photo than asking for a conversation.

I think Justin Bieber recently had a whinge about this (laughs). I think that now with apps like Instagram it changes things; people seem to rather want pictures these days.

DID YOU ALWAYS WANT TO BE AN ACTRESS? No. I didn’t start acting until I was in my 20s.

Throughout school I liked a lot of different subjects.

I suppose that’s what makes acting the best – I get to be lots of different roles. I was always quite interested in a lot of areas. All through high school I was, like, oh gosh, I want to do everything (laughs).

HOW DID YOU GET YOUR FOOT IN THE DOOR WITH ACTING? I just gave it a go. I literally saw a sign promoting Screen Actors and I thought it would be a bit of a laugh.

I had heaps of fun, it was a lovely environment. I kept pursuing it because I enjoyed the people I was meeting along the way.

WHAT DID YOU LEARN FROM YOUR SIX-EPISODE GUEST ROLE IN HOME AND AWAY? Home and Away and Neighbours are very similar in how they run – they have to shoot so quickly.

They’re on a tight timeframe, so you have to jump in and hit the ground running. The scenes are really short, like a minute long.

Working with the team was great, they’re all professionals and everyone’s doing what they love doing. People say there are divas in the acting industry, but I’ve never met anyone like that just yet.

Maybe the highlight is that I get to do new stuff all the time but I think my biggest career highlight is yet to come...

WAS IT A BIG CHANGE TO TRY THEATRE WHEN YOU STARRED IN LOCAL PLAY EXIT THE KING? It’s a completely different skill set. You can still create your character in similar ways but how you perform is different.

The audience can’t always see your face on stage, so you need a strong voice to carry expression.

On set, you just get a microphone attached to your top that can pick everything up.

On stage you also need to have faith in the people around you, that they’re going to catch you if you stuff up. You have to keep on rolling, whereas in television you can just do another take, so to trust in your fellow actors is really important.

Georgia at right with her co-stars in Wentworth.

11

>>>

WHAT WAS IT LIKE IN YOUR BIGGEST ROLE, AS JESS WARNER IN WENTWORTH?

You can’t predict the future. I don’t know when the next audition is, I don’t know anything.

It was the first big role I had. I was able to apply all the things I studied and was trained to do – I was given the opportunity to give it a crack.

WHAT IS YOUR CAREER HIGHLIGHT?

Every character you play is an exploration of being a different person and how different people behave in their environment. Obviously, driving up to Melbourne wasn’t great at times – start times were sometimes 5am – but you get past it because you just love your day.

WILL YOU RETURN FOR THE FOURTH SEASON? For those who haven’t seen the end of the third season yet, this may be a bit of a spoiler but my character is strangled to death and killed at the end of the third season, so I’m definitely not coming back (laughs).

DO YOU HAVE PLANS TO MOVE OUT OF GEELONG? No plans at all.

WOULD YOU CONSIDER WORKING OVERSEAS? I would but the problem with working overseas is getting a working visa. It can be difficult to get them and they take a lot of time.

I have a Canadian working visa but to get an American one is a bit of a process.

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I’m constantly striving for a highlight. It’s a really tough question.

I think everything is magical in its own sense. The stuff I learnt on Wentworth I’ll never learn anywhere else.

Maybe the highlight is that I get to do new stuff all the time but I think my biggest career highlight is yet to come.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE THINGS TO DO IN GEELONG? To be honest, it’s the beach. I consider Torquay a part of Geelong.

There’s just something so wonderful about being able to get to the beach. Geelong is great, I love getting around it – it’s so quick and easy. Everything you want is like five minutes away.

I like to go for runs along the Barwon River and people say hello and it’s lovely. People are great, I love it.

DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR THE YOUNG GIRLS WHO LOOK UP TO YOU ABOUT GETTING INTO ACTING?

WHAT ARE YOUR PLANS FOR THE FUTURE?

Acting is just a job, a career. I think people tend to put acting on a pedestal – it’s just storytelling.

I’ll see how Sammy J and Randy in Ricketts Lane on ABC goes. They aired six episodes on ABC iView recently and it’s now on ABC TV.

I think if you’re going to pursue acting to be famous, you’re not an actor. You need confidence but you need confidence in every job.

Georgia with her ABC castmates.

Acting is just a job, a career. I think people tend to put acting on a pedestal – it,s just storytelling...

I think an actor is someone who is a part of a team and who tells stories. The whole famous thing is something quite bizarre and ridiculous.

I would say to young girls just make sure you’re doing it for the right reasons. If you’re doing it to be famous, it’s not going to be fulfilling, it’s going to be really difficult.

ANYTHING ELSE YOU’D LIKE TO SAY? Just a big thanks to everyone who’s come up to me and had a chat – beside the people who just ask for photos and leave (laughs).

People come up to me and say, ‘I love Wentworth and I love this about your character’. They’ve been so wonderfully supportive. I’ve been really flattered and grateful for their comments.

Georgia in Home and Away.

PICTURES: CHRIS ALLEN PHOTOGRAPHY STYLING: VERONICA ALLEN

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BEASTS OF THE GREAT SOUTHERN SUPERCONTINENT

Dinosaurs stalk

museum GEELONG’S National Wool Museum is hosting some of the most unusual dinosaurs to have ever roamed the planet – and they’re all from our own backyard.

Meet cryolohophosaurus the Antarctic dinosaur, megalania the giant lizard, and his lunch: bullockornis the giant flightless bird.

A global environmental crisis, food shortages, birds so big they couldn’t fly and one big, mean komodo dragon-like creature – it’s just another day for the Wildlife of Gondwana exhibition.

The exhibits show where drifting continents affected the evolution of dinosaurs and mega fauna from 3.8 billion years ago to the present. Surrounded by life-like environmental murals, the exhibition features real fossils, skeletons and 20 full-scale skeletal casts, many of which have never been on public display in Australia before.

PrimeSci! will conduct dinosaur workshops in January, while excavation group Dinosaur Dreaming will answer questions about fossil finding and identification.

Patrons will also get the chance to see and handle real fossils from the Otway.

Alongside the exhibition, the museum’s ‘Qantassaurus Lounge’ has puzzles, a little LEGO station and colouring activities.

The museum also hosts dino birthday parties.

For more information about the exhibition, dino activities, workshops and parties phone 5272 4701or visit nwm.vic.gov.au.

FORGET ABOUT THE DINOSAURS THAT YOU KNOW – PREPARE FOR A WHOLE NEW BREED OF BEAST!

26 July 2015 – 24 July 2016

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Life is a journey, but more so for some than others. The term refugee has come to mean those fleeing persecution in their home country, but as its most basic, a refugee is one seeking a refuge, a safe place of shelter. Three Australians tell their vastly different stories of how they came to be in Geelong and what being here means to them.

WORDS: ALANA MITCHELSON PICTURES: REG RYAN

The Omids, Rasoul with his children Arman, Maysam and Roya.

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FEARING for his life, Rasoul Omid was forced to flee Afghanistan, leaving behind his beautiful wife and three children after his family home was attacked.

Eight members of his family were killed in that one night. Some of his siblings were abducted and he has never seen them again.

Rasoul had been working as a senior liaison officer for a United Nations agency in the department of disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration. He also served as a civilian personnel officer for the International Security Assistance Force.

His Western-affiliated positions coupled with his Hazara ethnicity put Rasoul at risk. Rasoul had witnessed the genocide of many Hazaras in his community.

His family lived in Helmand, a Taliban stronghold where US and UK forces were based.

Rasoul described the province as the most insecure, violent and dangerous. There were many extremist, radical and fundamentalist groups and, unlike in other Afghanistan regions, in Helmand Hazaras like Rasoul were a minority group.

“It was an unknown situation,” he said.

Rasoul Omid

“I didn’t know much about Australia. But I had strong aspirations for my children’s future.”

Only after another year of waiting was Rasoul’s family at last granted sponsorship to join him in Australia.

The family of five is now happily living in Highton. Rasoul’s children Arman, 10, Maysam, 7, and Roya, 6, are already thriving at school and love playing soccer, taekwondo and going swimming.

“There is a strong Hazara community in Geelong. Most Afghanistan refugees here are Hazara,” Rasoul said.

“There are many cultural activities and festivals we can celebrate together.

“We want to forget the past.

We are Hazaras. And we are all Australian.”

He began receiving death threats and warnings from Pashtun’s tribal leaders, who were supporters of the Taliban along with other terrorist groups. But it was the cold, targeted attack on his family that steered him to extremes; to flee the country in 2009.

After crossing the border to Pakistan, Rasoul was smuggled to Malaysia, Dubai and later Indonesia over a period of two months, after which he would spend the next three long years of his life in a refugee camp.

“The Indonesian refugee camp conditions were worse than a prison for criminals,” he said.

“The police and government there was also not good.

“It was very difficult to be separated from my family for such a long time. As a father, a husband, as a human being.

It’s not natural.”

The day that Rasoul was granted a visa, he described as the best day of his life. He felt free.

>>> 17

Dah Dah Poe (centre) with friends Htoo Kolo. Jah Maw, Teh Kway and Pha Day who were born at the same refugee camp near the Thailand-Burma border.

For Dorota Schoebel, her journey from Poland to Germany and later Australia has been one of many ups and downs: of family strength, loss and courage.

Dorota was born in Zgorzelec near the Polish-German border.

She moved to the big city Wroclaw and studied at university while working as a translator.

In time, Dorota found that the job wasn’t challenging her enough and since she was fluent in German, she crossed the border, where she soon met her husband Dieter. But Dorota still found it difficult to find satisfying work.

“One of Dieter’s cousins visited us from Australia one day. The family had immigrated after the war to establish a new life in Australia.

They brought us magazines and calendars filled with beautiful Australian nature and wildlife,” she said.

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My entire family are in Poland and it,s difficult to stay in touch ... I really miss them...

“It was wonderful to hear their stories and it was always my dream to go to Australia.”

And so the couple decided to make the move themselves.

Dorota found that once she had two sons, Oliver and Julian, playgroups became a great way to form friendships with other Geelong West mothers. She finds Australian culture very relaxed although sometimes misses the European lifestyle.

“My entire family are in Poland and it’s difficult to stay in touch. I really miss them,” she said.

“I recently lost my husband of 17 years. He was diagnosed with a late stage of lung cancer last November and died in June, so it’s been a struggle. I have support from some of my husband’s side of the family and some close friends.

“I’m involved with the Polish White Eagle Club where I can meet other members of the Polish community in Geelong. I’ve also started volunteering at Australian Multicultural Community Services and I’m looking forward to working with other people my age who are new to the country.”

Dah Dah Poe.

Dah Dah Poe was 12 years old when she arrived in Australia six years ago.

All she knew was the English alphabet and basic words like ‘hello’, ‘yes’, ‘no’ and ‘thank you’.

Dah Dah was born in a refugee camp at the ThailandBurma border. While very young at the time, she still remembers life at the camp.

“We would get food from the jungle and get to school by walking,” the 18-year-old recalled.

“The teachers were so mean.

It was so bad I used to cry to my mum to come to school with me. So when I came to Australia I was very shy in the beginning.”

The Corio resident was enrolled in school within one month of her arrival in Geelong. It was a lot for a 12-year-old to take in.

She was intially accompanied to classes by a translator but only once a week. She was lonely.

Fortunately for Dah Dah, there has been a strong Karreni community at her high school, with many who had similar experiences growing up at the same refugee camp.

“Geelong is a really multicultural area. Seeing how many people there are from other countries has given me a lot of confidence,” she said.

“Joining in activities like volleyball and badminton have helped me with making more friends.”

Dah Dah has just completed her year 12 and is feeling relieved. She hopes to become either a chef or a Fort youth worker where she can help other young people with the challenging transition of moving to a foreign country.

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summer entertaining

Kelly Lowdon knows her way around the kitchen and has a passion for inspiring others to get creative with their cooking. She shares her passion through these amazing summer recipes.

Rosemary chicken skewers with saffron dipping sauce.

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My Beach Kitchen food blogger Kelly Lowdon with a vertical pear salad.

FOOD blogger Kelly Lowdon loves to entertain family and friends all year round. Yet in summer, with hot nights and amazing seasonal produce, her inspiration is in abundance.

Living in Jan Juc with her husband and three children, Kelly found that her passion for creating amazing food at home was more than just a hobby.

Kelly decided that she needed to share her creations with the world, so she launched the blog, My Beach Kitchen. My Beach Kitchen is filled with inspiring recipes, stunning images and a light hearted approach to cooking.

Amazed with the positive response and strong following Kelly threw herself into the world of home wares and is thrilled to launch her first, limited edition range this summer. The My Beach Kitchen range consists of enamel serving ware and wooden chopping boards and spoons.

The range has been designed locally in Torquay, is unique in its design and comes in a variety of coastal inspired colours.

The process of designing, creating and launching this incredible range has come with some lessons. Kelly’s advice is to “be patient, don’t rush and take time every now and then to step back and look at where you are at, where you have come from and if you are headed in the right direction”.

Kelly knows that throwing a beautiful long lunch or dinner with friends can seem overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Here, Kelly shares her top tips and a few of her favourite summer recipes.

I On warm nights, keep the food simple! Guests will be happy with a simple fare, finger food served in the garden, sparkling drinks and savoury bites.

VERTICAL PEAR SALAD INGREDIENTS 50g (1/2 bunch) rockette, trimmed Handful snow pea tendrils 50g piece Parmesan, shaved I When thinking about summer entertaining, think light, alfresco style dining. Use fresh, local, seasonal produce whenever possible.

40g (1/3 cup) walnut pieces

I If you’re having a formal sit-down affair, always set your table early – that way if you’re running behind when your guests arrive, you will always look organised.

DRESSING

I If you’re having a backyard party, set up tables in different areas – drinks in one area, desserts in another. This will encourage guests to roam and mingle.

1. Cut the pears into three even sized pieces.

In the base of the pear, carefully hollow out a small section, where your salad will sit.

For the middle layer, carefully cut a ring out of the centre. Leave the top layer as is.

I Set up a pretty table with lots of drinks and glasses, which will help keep the party flowing and guests hydrated on hot days.

I Create ambiance with lots of fresh flowers and when the sun goes down, make use of candles or paper lanterns.

A string of backyard lights also creates a fun, relaxed vibe.

I Use buckets and interesting containers filled with ice to keep dips and other cold products fresh.

Visit mybeachkitchen.com.au, @mybeachkitchen and facebook. com/mybeachkitchen for more information.

2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives 1 to 3 (about 300g) ripe pears (depending on how many pears you wish to assemble 2 tbsp olive oil 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar Salt & pepper to taste METHOD

2. For your salad, combine all ingredients in a bowl. Mix dressing ingredients together and lightly dress the salad, just before you are ready to assemble.

3. To assemble the pears, carefully fill the bottom layer of your pears with the salad, gently place the next layer on top and fill with more salad.

Gently pop the last piece of pear on top and serve.

NOTE: This salad is a bit of a balancing act, but is well worth it for the wow factor!

23

>>>

HALLOUMI AND ASPARAGUS SPEARS INGREDIENTS

INGREDIENTS

300g halloumi

1 kg skinless chicken thighs

Extra virgin olive oil for brushing

1 tsp sea salt

½ tsp each dried chilli flakes Pinch of sea salt To serve: fresh mint leaves and lemon wedges METHOD 1. Take the halloumi and slice to approximately the same length as your asparagus spears. Thread the asparagus onto skewers, alternating with your halloumi. Set aside.

2. Heat a char-grill pan (or barbecue) over mediumhigh heat. Brush asparagus and halloumi with olive oil and char-grill, turning occasionally, until halloumi is golden and asparagus is tender (3-4 minutes). Scatter with chilli, fresh mint, drizzle with extra olive oil, and serve with lemon wedges.

24

ROSEMARY CHICKEN SKEWERS WITH SAFFRON DIPPING SAUCE

12 asparagus spears, ends trimmed and cut in two

1 tsp ground cinnamon 1/2 tsp ground cardamom 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper 1/4 cup lemon juice 1/4 cup olive oil 1/2 tsp saffron threads 16 rosemary sprigs or wooden skewers DIPPING SAUCE 200g natural yoghurt 1/2 cup sour cream 1 tbsp lemon juice 2 tbsp chopped fresh mint 1/2 tsp saffron thread (soaked in some hot water) METHOD 1. Cut chicken into even sized pieces (about 2cm). Place in a bowl with the remaining ingredients and toss to combine.

2. Thread the chicken onto the skewers (if using rosemary make sure they are fresh straight pieces) and place aside.

3. To make the dipping sauce whisk together the yoghurt, sour cream, juice and mint. Place in a serving bowl and top with pre-soaked saffron threads.

4. Cook the chicken skewers on a barbecue or a char grill pan for around 10 minutes or until cooked through and golden all over.

5. Serve on a platter with your saffron dipping sauce.

WATERMELON, BASIL PUNCH WITH WATERMELON ICE INGREDIENTS 1/2 seedless watermelon, cut into chunks 1 tbsp white wine vinegar Ice cubes, gin, soda water and basil leaves to serve

SUMMER SEMIFREDDO INGREDIENTS 8 egg yolks 250g caster sugar 250 ml (1 cup) passion fruit juice (see note) Scraped seeds of 1 vanilla bean Juice of 1 lime 300g double cream 150 ml pouring cream, lightly whipped Pulp of 2 passion fruits, plus extra to serve METHOD 1. Whisk egg yolks in an electric mixer until pale and fluffy (5-7 minutes).

Meanwhile, stir sugar, passionfruit juice and vanilla seeds in a small saucepan over mediumhigh heat until sugar dissolves. Then simmer until syrupy (4-5 minutes).

Add to egg yolks with lime juice, whisking continuously until mixture is cold (5-6 minutes).

2. Combine creams in a bowl, whisk until soft peaks form. Fold into passionfruit mixture, fold in pulp, spoon into an 8cm x 22cm plastic-lined rectangular cake tin, smoothing top (there may be mixture left over), freeze overnight until firm. Slice thickly and serve with extra pulp spooned over.

BASIL SUGAR SYRUP

ROASTED HAZELNUT, CITRUS AND SUMMER BERRY CAKE INGREDIENTS 7 eggs 3/4 cup caster sugar 1/3 cup caster sugar 150 g finely ground roasted hazelnut meal 1/2 cup desiccated coconut Finely grated zest 2 oranges and 1 lemon FOR THE TOP

110g (½ cup) caster sugar

1 1/4 cups cream, softly whipped

Handful of basil leaves

1 cup homemade lemon curd (optional)

METHOD For the watermelon ice, place half a watermelon in the blender and blend until smooth. Strain, then pour into ice cube trays of your choice.

Freeze.

For the basil sugar syrup combine 250ml water and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat and stir until sugar dissolves. Bring to the boil, then remove from the heat. Allow the syrup to sit for a few hours so the basil flavour infuses into the syrup.

You can store the syrup in an airtight container or jar until required.

Next place the watermelon, vinegar and 60 ml basil sugar syrup in a blender and puree until smooth. Strain the liquid into a pouring jug.

Fill a glass, jar or even half a watermelon that has been hollowed out into a punch bowl with a few pieces of your watermelon ice. Fill a third full with the watermelon mixture, top up with soda water, gin to taste and fresh basil leaves.

1 punnet fresh raspberries 1 punnet fresh blueberries 1/2 punnet fresh strawberries Icing sugar, to dust METHOD 1. Preheat the oven to 170°C. Line a 22 cm spring form tin with baking paper.

2. Separate the eggs and put the whites and yolks in two separate large bowls.

3. Beat the egg yolks with the 3/4 cup of caster sugar until very thick and pale. Stir in the nuts, coconut and all the zest. The mixture will be very thick.

4. Beat the egg whites until frothy then gradually beat in the 1/3 cup of caster sugar until thick and glossy. Use a large metal spoon to stir a large spoonful of the egg whites into the nut mixture to loosen it. Gently fold in the remaining egg whites in 3 batches.

5. Pour the mixture into the tin and smooth the top.

Bake for 40 minutes or until the cake pulls away from the side of the tin and is golden and firm to the touch. Set aside to cool.

To assemble: Spread a layer of lemon curd on the top of the cake. Next dollop the cream over the top and spread evenly. Scatter over the raspberries, blueberries and strawberries and dust with icing sugar.

Note: To extract passionfruit juice, process pulp in a food processor, then strain through a sieve (discard solids). Eighteen passionfruit yield about 250ml juice.

25

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island

Surf Coast adventurers John Jacoby and Chris Porter tell EMILY ROBINSON about the epic kayak journey around South Georgia Island, on the doorstep of Antarctica.

PICTURES: ANDREW MAFFETT

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A BOYS’ trip to Bali or a party at the pub were never going to be enough when John Jacoby turned 50 this year.

Now is not the time to fall off your kayak.

Instead, the Jan Juc athlete marked his milestone by paddling sea kayaks with three mates on a marathon adventure around remote, inhospitable South Georgia Island.

“I considered it a pretty good birthday present,” John laughs.

The feat, in the frigid South Atlantic Ocean just 800km from Antarctica, won Jacoby and his team Australian Geographic Society’s Adventurers of the Year Award.

It was the first joint trip for the team, which also included Anglesea’s Chris Porter, Perth’s Andrew Maffett and Tasmanian Jim Bucirde.

An international adventure-racing legend, Jacoby also won the Keys to the City of Melbourne in 1987 winning his third World Marathon Kayak Champion title. He has since won a fourth championship.

Jacoby has completed 30 major international adventure races in 16 countries and was the first Australian to win New Zealand’s coveted Coast to Coast title.

Porter, founder of surf school Go Ride A Wave, has completed numerous sea kayaking expeditions in Australia, New Zealand, North America and Southern Africa.

Jacoby describes the 500km circumnavigation of South Georgia Island as “one of the best trips” of his career.

In February and March the men sailed 1400km across the South Atlantic to reach the glaciated,

mountainous island, known as the Gateway to Antarctica.

“The planning was more difficult than the execution,” John laughs.

“We had to prove we had our own search and rescue capability – ours was the yacht we sailed down on. Sometimes it could be 500m away, other times it was 30km away.”

Porter says the challenge required “exceptional” planning.

Relaxing amid the rush-hour crowd.

31

>>>

Jacoby chats with a local.

“We even had doctors teaching us how to do stitches and how to use morphine.”

The team was sometimes on edge about the risk of a member straying from the group.

Jacoby’s initial captivation with the island’s mystique has since transitioned to a fascination with its “colourful history”.

“It can be quite hard to keep all together,” Jacoby explains.

“They slaughtered up to two million whales on the island,” he tells.

John Jacoby and Chris Porter on their trek around South Georgia Island.

“It was such a lucrative industry back then – the oil from the whales was used to light the streets of London.”

The men spent 13 days in self-sufficient kayaks to complete the epic journey around South Georgia.

They packed 30 days’ worth of gear in their kayaks, covering everything from dehydrated meals to sleeping bags and equipment.

“Each night we’d stop and camp at beaches on the island,” Jacoby says.

Jacoby often had the feeling of being watched on the island.

“We made the decision early on that if we got good weather we had to paddle pretty much all day.”

The good weather permitted up to 14 hours a day of paddling, with only one day lost to bad weather.

“On another day when the wind was against us we only made 5km in about two and a half hours,” Jacoby grimaces.

Porter and Jacoby make landfall.

32

“We made record time by accident. It’s just the way the weather turned out that helped us.”

“We’d often work in pairs and keep an eye on each other. It was really dependent on the weather conditions – if it was calm we would wander off a little bit.

“There are just so many things to look at.”

Jacoby still marvels at encountering whales, gliding by glaciers, watching seals swim beneath his kayak and touching icebergs.

“We steered clear of the big icebergs but if it’s relatively small you can paddle right up to it and touch it.”

The two degree temperatures also provided some thrills.

“I actually went for a quick swim – I tried to convince the other boys but they all chickened out,” Jacoby laughs.

After the marathon paddle the team decided to go a step further.

Or perhaps that should be many steps further, traversing the island on foot.

“We copied the route (explorer) Ernest Shackleton took when he tried to rescue his crew. He trekked across the island to get help among the whaling stations,” John explains.

Shackelton and his crew arrived on the island in 1917 after

abandoning their ship when it became stuck in pack ice almost 120km away. He died of a heart attack when he returned to South Georgia in 1921.

Beauty amid the desolation.

We,re just four old blokes having a go...

Despite its foreboding characteristics, the island apart has abundant wildlife. Fur seals and various species of penguins and sea birds number in the millions.

The alpine tundra is also home to albatross and sea elephants.

“The penguins are the highlight,” Jacoby enthuses.

“On one beach you can see between 500,000 to 600,000 of them. You can walk in amongst them; they’ll just shuffle around, sit down and come and have a look at you.”

Porter also enjoyed interacting with the locals “The king penguins are up to your hip in size. They’ll nip on the end of your boots and tap on your kayak,” he says.

Jacoby was thrilled with the group’s geographic society award, while admitting he was unsure of the judging process.

“It came about in a strange way.

Andrew wrote an article for the Australian Geographic and they came back and asked if they could nominate us for Adventurers of the Year.”

Porter calls it an “amazing honour”, ranking the team alongside some of the world’s great adventurers.

“We’re just four old blokes having a go,” he says.

“But this trip wasn’t about us, it’s more about inspiring people to go off on their own adventures.

“At 55 years old, I should have done these trips by now. I want to see the 20-to-30-year-olds out there doing this stuff.”

Jacoby and Porter are now planning their next adventure.

“John and I are talking about paddling around Cape Horn in South America – only about three or four people have accomplished it. We want to follow the footsteps of Charles Darwin,” Porter says.

rooted on the Surf Coast as long-term residents.

Jacoby has lived at Jan Juc for 22 years after pestering his boss for years to transfer him so he could manage their bank’s Torquay branch.

“I just really wanted to go surfing,” he admits.

Now he has his own adventure business, Rapid Ascent in Torquay.

Porter moved from Melbourne in 1977.

“I just love the quiet beach life,” he says.

“And South Georgia Island has shown me a whole other side of a quiet life, I can tell you that!”

Despite their international adventure, the pair remain firmly A nest with a view.

Unlike a Surf Coast summer barbecue, ice was never in short supply.

33

Scholarships an entry to Geelong College GEELONG College offers academic, music and boarding scholarships for entry into Years 7 through to 11 each year.

Scholarship applications open in November with tests and auditions in February next year for entry into 2017, so you need to plan ahead.

Special scholarships, such as the Howard Hitchcock Visual Arts Scholarship are offered cyclically so it is always a good idea to visit geelongcollege.vic.edu.au to see what is available.

Geelong College is excited to be offering the Howard Hitchcock Visual Arts Scholarship this year.

“The design and creative arts are a very prominent part of our curriculum,” acting principal Roger Smith says.

All scholarship applicants sit the test to give the school an understanding of their general aptitude.

“It’s easier said than done, but try to relax during the test,” says Mr Smith.

“We have very good success in the top arts and design competitions, and many students have been selected for exhibitions.

“Students should be themselves, write an essay the way they usually would or play their instrument the way they normally play.

“We are confident that we can support just about any student who’s creative and talented in this area,” Mr Smith says.

“We’re looking for well-rounded individuals, people who will bring something to the community as well as benefitting themselves.”

G Share with editor

Angie Hilton G Give-aways and contests G Parenting tips & ideas

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Applications close Friday 5 February 2016.

Find out more at www.geelongcollege.vic.edu.au

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Scholarship tests and tours: Saturday 13 February 2016.

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[local] love

Kirby and Darcy Geelong’s Kirby Rumsey and Barwon Heads’ Darcy Hughes were always meant to be together – it just took them a while to realise.

WORDS: EMILY ROBINSON PICTURES: LOUSIA JONES PHOTOGRAPHY

40

HOW THEY MET The two attended Belmont High School together but never spoke.

“We weren’t really friends in high school,” Kirby reflects.

After graduating year 12, they went their separate ways and moved on to university.

She studied teaching, while Darcy tackled information technology.

But fate stepped in with a second shot at love.

Kirby and ‘Darc’, as she calls him, ended up with the same casual job at Safeway.

“A mutual friend invited us to a party – that’s where we had our first proper conversation,” Kirby says.

“We really connected and hit it off from there.”

THE PROPOSAL For their first date Darcy took Kirby for a walk along the Barwon Heads foreshore, so it was only fitting the area should also be where he would eventually propose.

“Darc said we should go out for dinner one night. Being a surfer,

he said he wanted to check out the surf beforehand,” Kirby says.

“It was so cold and I didn’t really want to get out of the car but he insisted.”

The two began to walk along the beach, reliving memories of their first date.

HENS AND BUCKS For her hen’s night Kirby had an afternoon tea with close friends and then went out for dinner.

Darcy and his friends, on the other hand, went paint-balling and played lawn bowls.

THE WEDDING ATTIRE

“And then he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him,” Kirby fondly reflects.

Finding her dress was an easy choice for Kirby, who describes herself as “decisive”.

Beforehand Darcy had spent weeks planning and designing Kirby’s diamond ring.

She found just what she wanted at Geelong’s Bridal House.

“It’s a solitaire with diamonds on the side, its perfect. He did so well.”

THE PLANNING The couple embraced the planning stage by themselves, wanting to “keep it simple” while ensuring the wedding reflected their personalities.

Darcy, being handy on a computer, used his skills to make unique interactive invitations.

“We sent our guests a little invitation which gave them a link and a sign-in code to a webpage with all our information on it,” Kirby says.

And then he got down on one knee and asked me to marry him...

“It was a Stella York gown. I put it on and I just loved it. I didn’t try many on – when I want something, I want it,” she laughs.

Kirby’s bridesmaids, her two sisters, wore long navy blue dresses.

“I knew I wanted a long-style dress, I wasn’t too fussed about the colour,” Kirby says.

41

Darcy’s groomsmen, two mates from Belmont High, wore grey suits from Eddy Elias.

The bridal party also featured Kirby’s two nephews.

“They were our ring bearers. They both looked so handsome – one of them asked me not long ago if Darcy and I could get married again because it was so much fun,” Kirby says.

HAIR AND MAKEUP Kirby’s good friend owns Emma Vivian Hair and Makeup in Newtown, so she was in good hands for her big day.

“I knew I could trust her,” Kirby laughs.

Known for wearing her hair in a ponytail or bun, Kirby opted for a half-up, half-down style.

She preferred a natural, classic look for her makeup.

THE CAR A neighbour next door to Kirby’s family owns a vintage-style Rolls-Royce car and offered to drive her to the ceremony.

“It was so lovely,” Kirby says.

42

THE FLOWERS For her bouquet, Kirby chose soft shades of pink and cream.

“I picked the flowers from Geelong Flower Farm and one of my good friends put the bouquets together for me.”

THE CEREMONY Darcy and Kirby wed with a ceremony on Barwon Heads’ Ozone Pier.

“It was so special because it’s where we had our first date and where Darcy proposed.”

They chose celebrant Bronwyn Davie, who Kirby met at a local bridal fair.

The couple wrote their own vows to reflect their love and dedication to one another.

THE RECEPTION Like many weddings, a spanner was thrown in the works when their original reception venue was sold and could no longer be held at the venue.

“But it was a blessing in disguise,” Kirby says.

“A neighbour of Darcy’s family

Kirby,s local dream team DRESS: Stella York gown, Bridal House, Geelong SUITS: Eddy Elias, Geelong HAIR AND MAKEUP: Emma Vivian Hair and Makeup, Newtown

said we could have the reception at their house in Barwon Heads – it was so significant and beautiful.”

THE ENTERTAINMENT

FLOWERS: Geelong Flower Farm, Moolap CELEBRANT: Bronwyn Davie CAKE: Kiss Kakes, Geelong BAND: Jais & Anna, Geelong BOAT: Sail and Sea Tours, Queenscliff CATERING: Cravings Café, Geelong PHOTOGRAPHY: Louisa Jones Photography HIRE ITEMS: Memphis Hire, Corio

To set the atmosphere, local acoustic duo Jais & Anna performed throughout the evening.

Darcy and Kirby had their first dance to Sam Smith’s Latch.

“We spent a long time looking for the perfect song for us,” Kirby says.

THE CAKE Kiss Kakes Geelong created a stunning three-tier white and dark chocolate cake.

“We topped it with flowers featured in the bouquets,” Kirby says.

THE PHOTOGRAPHY Louisa Jones Photography was

there to capture all the special moments throughout the day.

“She was just amazing – I couldn’t recommend her highly enough.

We were so impressed with the photos, we couldn’t have asked for anything better,” Kirby says.

THE HONEYMOON Being a school teacher, Kirby tied in the Palm Cove honeymoon with school holidays.

“We went for a week – it was a quick getaway. Then I came back to my prep class – some of them are still calling me by my maiden name,” Kirby laughs.

IN REFLECTION Kirby describes her wedding day as “beautiful, unique and perfect”.

“Being March, we were worried it might rain but it didn’t – it was a perfect 20C day.”

The couple now live at Waurn Ponds.

43

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1. ZOE LAMONT AND TINA MCELLIGOTT. 2. ANDREW DUNBABIN AND BRONWEN CHARLESON. 3. FRANCE CALVERT AND KAREN BRADY. 4. LOUISE PALMER AND NANCY MURRIHY. 5. KRYSTELLE BARRETTLENNARD AND KLOE WOODS. 6. KERRY TURNBULL AND CASEY KROPMAN. 7. JOANNE HAM, DARRIN FINDLAY AND JEANETTE FRY.

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IMAGINATION meets almost no bounds at Newtown Event Centre, one of Geelong’s newest reception venues.

The modern facilities are a blank canvas for the imaginative to paint their own event picture, with the function becoming a true reflection of their personality.

Newtown Event Centre offers a parkland vista across Newtown’s Elderslie Reserve, with plenty of off-street and on-street parking.

Venue manager Brian Mudge says the space is entirely versatile.

With complete catering facilities Newtown Event Centre offers full seated dining for 160, finger food for cocktail parties up to 280 or light snacks for corporate events in theatre style seating to 150.

“We adapt our space to your event, instead of you being forced to fit in with the restrictions of the venue,” Brian says.

Brian and his friendly staff are on hand to present first class food and wine in the fully licensed venue.

“We’ve created very different wedding themes from a space age setting to the cornucopia of a Roman festival, complete with fruit laden tables.”

There’s full wheel chair access and the conference rooms are also available for day or short notice hire, including smaller more intimate events.

The flexibility of the space means business and corporate events can be just as easily accommodated, ideal for seminars, conferences, exhibitions and training days.

Newtown Event Centre is on the corner of Raith Tce and Read St, Newtown. Phone Brian Mudge on 0447 770 648 or email info@newtowneventcentre.com.au.

Newtown Event Centre has a versatile space.

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[local] sounds

IF THERE’S any musical genre that can claim to be world music, it’s reggae.

embrace reggae and perhaps apply it in their own lives,” Candice explains.

The happy rhythm with its messages of love, peace, equal rights and justice is immediately familiar to everyone, mainly thanks to the dearly departed Bob Marley.

Typically, World Reggae Jam holds a Nyabinghi drum circle led

by Afrobeat’s Janine Rew, AKA Neeni-Tuti, one of Australia’s leading African drum exponents.

But a group of reggae-loving Geelong musos is bringing the infectious beat to the city through newly-formed World Reggae Jam. The proponents hope to engender a reggae renaissance with a number of impressive practitioners clubbing together under the WRJ banner.

And now they have just the place to do it: a new community arts hub, Kubu Studio, on the western fringe of central Geelong.

The musicians from Australia, Africa, Brazil and Indonesia have united to bring reggae music to Geelong in a family-friendly environment.

The Jam has already played at two gigs featuring Rastafarian favourites, originals plus some African, Brazilian and Indonesian reggae.

One of the driving forces behind the united group, Candice Feuerring says, is that it’s more a lifestyle than an event, with food, children’s activities and a great community vibe.

“We really want to make this into a regular event so people can 48

Afrobeat, which Janine founded in 1998 after a trip to Africa, is now one of the longest running and first female-owned-andoperated African drumming businesses in Australia.

Janine became fascinated with African rhythms and subsequently studied traditional percussion and dance under renowned master teachers from West Africa for 12 years.

A graduate in interpersonal communications, group processes and facilitation, Janine says the opportunity to connect African rhythms and group processes, transformation and community-building was obvious.

“Even for those who can’t read a note of music, don’t think they have a rhythmic bone in their body or believe it will be too far out of their comfort zone, African drumming unlocks the key to increased self-esteem, creativity, teamwork, communication, and overall health and wellbeing,” she says.

The World Reggae Jam collaborative features talented musicians who have played in Australia and overseas at notable venues, events and festivals.

With its fluid line-up, World Reggae Jam includes Candice as lead singer, Brazilian bass player Jahwise Elie, Indonesian singer Gito Redward and Senegal’s MG Kalonji.

“Most of the World Reggae Jam musicians are based in Geelong and surrounding areas, so we really wanted to bring the positive message of reggae to our local community,” Candice says.

“We want to showcase Jamaican reggae and conscious original roots music, spreading a message of unity, respect and peace.”

Kubu Studio is a new hub for artists musicians, photographers and film makers offering a venue and exhibition space.

Director Emma Bottomley says the studio acts as a bridge between cultures to foster international artistic exchanges.

“We want to make Kubu a magnet for the arts, for musicians, photographers and film makers, a whole creative community,” Emma says.

“Kubu can be a music venue, an exhibition space, an international exchange, a platform for creative people of all hues to showcase their work.”

Candice Feuerring, left, and Emma Bottomley, front, with some of the World Reggae Jam Crew.

WORDS: JOHN VAN KLAVEREN PICTURE: REG RYAN

49

gigguide DECEMBER-MARCH

10 December

23 January

Marlon Williams + The Yarra Benders Tour

Anglesea Music Festival

Following a completely soldout album release tour in July, acclaimed crooner Marlon Williams and his band The Yarra Benders will head back on the road to bring their incredible tour to Geelong. Joining them will be special guest, Ben Salter, who has just released his celebrated new album The Stars My Destination.

The Workers Club Geelong

Some big-name Australian artists will join forces with local performers to rock the Surf Coast at Anglesea’s annual music festival this summer.

Iconic frontmen Dale Ryder of Boom Crash Opera and Taxiride’s Jason Singh headline with support from acts such as Jimi Hocking, Chris Wilson and Kelly Auty, while arts and a community market will add to the attractions.

Ellimatta Reserve Anglesea

12 December A Day on the Green - Elton John Elton John and his band are bringing the All The Hits Tour to Mt Duneed Estate. The concert is the second to be announced at Mt Duneed for the 2015/2016 summer season following the sold-out Fleetwood Mac concert and is another huge coup for the region.

Mt Duneed Estate Waurn Ponds

27 December British India Spring Tour Riding high on the success of their fifth album Nothing Touches Me, British India is embarking on a national tour which also includes a trip to America for shows in New York and LA. The four school friends emerged from Melbourne’s independent scene in 2007 with debut album Guillotine. Their fifth album reached #5 on the ARIA Albums Chart with hit singles ‘Wrong Direction’ and ‘Suddenly’.

Barwon Heads Hotel Geelong

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11 March Sunnyboys Fave Australian alternative band of the 1980s Sunnyboys will play Geelong after a stop-start reformation over the past two years.

All the original band members are back together, playing their legendary pop-rock hits such as Happy Man and Alone with You Tonight.

The Wool Exchange Geelong

11-13 March Motor City Music Festival

29 January Adam Brand + The Outlaws Fronted by 12 x Golden Guitarwinner and multi ARIA awardnominee Adam Brand, The Outlaws are an all-star line-up of Australian country music’s bestloved and most prolific names, Drew McAlister, Travis Collins, Matt Cornell and Mike Carr. The band comes to Geelong ready to unleash its covers of classic rock favourites from across the years from Cold Chisel’s ‘Working Class Man’, to Queen’s ‘Fat Bottom Girls’ and Jet’s smash hit ‘Are You Gonna Be My Girl’.

Gateway Hotel Geelong

Punters will enjoy three days of rock, blues, roots, tributes and more at the third annual Motor City Music Festival during the March long weekend.

Plenty of covered venues are available to protect against the weather and lots of food vendors will again be on hand to keep crowds refreshed.

This year’s event has added camping opportunities, while kids also enjoy free rides on Family Day. Geelong Showgrounds Breakwater

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[artist] in residence

one

photo a day

ALANA MITCHELSON casts an eye over the work of Lynden Smith, a fine-art photographer with a penchant for moody mornings.

FAR FROM his nine-to-five accountancy slog with spreadsheets, Lynden Smith spends his wee hours surveying serene beaches and sweeping landscapes for the perfect angle to capture sunrise.

He always prepares for his adventures with research of weather maps the night before but his ambitious nature sometimes ends in unplanned escapades, such as finding himself isolated on a disappearing beach during a quickly-rising tide.

Smith’s photographs document seascapes, landscapes and architecture throughout the Bellarine Peninsula and Surf Coast as well as other iconic settings across Australia.

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His latest goal is to complete 2000 daily photos in 2000 days, which he details on his website blog.He’s 500 photos from his target as he speaks with GC. Fine-art photography became a hobby for Smith in 2004 when he bought his first digital SLR camera.

He grew up on a wheat farm near Mount Arapiles, a world-famous rock-climbing destination west of Horsham.

Smith recalls four-hour road trips to visit his aunt and uncle at Queenscliff as exciting family excursions during his childhood, his parents ferrying all six kids in a 1961 Chevy.

“They had a house on the beach. We used to go down there often, especially during the summer break,” he says.

“I’ve always had a love for the beach. I like being by myself.

“Walking around the beach at 6am, it’s nice and quiet. I find it relaxing; so peaceful.”

Smith’s underlying passion for the area eventually brought him to live on the Bellarine Peninsula with a family of his own.

Now at Grovedale after 20 years in Geelong, he relishes his proximity to the Surf Coast and its stunning beaches.

Moving here was the best decision of his life, Smith maintains.

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>>>

It,s all about capturing that mag gical moment...

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Creativity runs through his family of five. One daughter is a photographer by trade, while wife Christine paints in oils and watercolours.

Quietly working away at his website in his spare time, Smith’s regular use of social media has contributed to his accumulation of more than 34,000 followers on Google+.

But it’s the environment that prompts him to snap up an opportunity for a photo.

“Nature has a way of presenting itself,” Smith explains.

“It’s all about capturing that magical moment.”

The built environment also features in his work, such as an image of Drysdale Railway Station at dawn.

As with each photo, he finds beauty in what looks like a desolate scene at a particular hour of the morning and evokes a unique mood and feeling.

Smith’s layered photos blend the shadows of night with the harsh light of the rising sun, often framed with rainbow-coloured clouds like fairy floss scattered across the sky.

The detail behind each of his photographs are available at lyndensmith.com.

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OWNING a European car is like having a European affair – ask any owner.

And the owner of Geelong’s European Affair, Paul Loughnan, has been having his for more than 20 years.

The long-time mechanic and former builder of World Rally Championship cars for Subaru and Mitsubishi knows a great piece of engineering when he sees one.

“It’s my life, my passion,” Paul declares.

That’s why the European Affair team cares about clients’ vehicles and understands the importance of making servicing and maintenance an easy and enjoyable experience.

Have a

European

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European Affair specialises in vehicle servicing and maintenance for all European vehicles, including Alfa Romeo, Audi, BMW, Citroen, Fiat, Mercedes Benz, Peugeot, Renault, Saab, Skoda, Volvo and Volkswagen.

European Affair handles all minor and major servicing, new-vehicle servicing, brakes, fuel injection and electronic ignition work, suspensions, transmission servicing, airconditioning servicing and re-gassing, transmission and engine overhauls and rebuilds.

European Affair keeps cars performing at their peak with precision technology, passion and 20 years of servicing experience.

The workshop’s professionally trained mechanics use the latest automotive computer equipment for all electronic repairs and maintenance of engine management.

European Affair is the dealer alternative to provide new vehicle servicing, maintenance and handbook servicing without affecting your warranty.

All work is carried out in a professional workshop and is fully guaranteed. It’s the European Affair reputation that keeps customers coming back year after year.

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The newspaper cutting of the rescue.

The scene of the drama.

bert, Noel, ) Millicent, Ro r Family (L-R Scout Badge. a g The McWhirte rin ea w Keith. Noel is Florence and

Remember your motto, BE PREPARED. The great things for you Scouts to bear in mind is wherever you are and whatever m yyou are doing, you should think to yyourself, “What accident is likely to occur here?” and “What is my duty if it occurs?” h You are then prepared to act.

Y Lord L o Baden-Powell: Campfire Yarn No23 Scouting for Boys, Boys’ Edition, 1962 S c

[history] repeated

Be prepared...

History can be uncovered in the most unusual of circumstances, as this previously hidden story – with its curious maze of Geelong family connections – can attest.

COLAC ANZAC Allan Reginald Pile served at Gallipoli and the Western Front. Before his passing he wrapped his treasured WW1 mementos in newspaper and placed them in the custody of his daughter-in-law in Norlane.

The paper was the Sun News Pictorial of 14 October 1943. A side column related to an incident where fortitude and knowledge saved a young boy’s life: The Yarra River, near Victoria Bridge, was always attractive to young Noel McWhirter whose family lived in Harrison Cres, Hawthorn.

Noel was just like an old soldier, at the sound of his voice the adults stood aside...

He was one of Lord BadenPowell’s Scouts, a member of the 1st Hawthorn Troop, and by age 11 had become engrossed in the Campfire Yarns.

His father Robert was also a soldier of the Great War, enlisting in July 1915 at age 23. He later posted to Jacka’s Mob, the 14th Infantry Battalion, commanded

by Geelong hero Albert Jacka of Victoria Cross fame.

On a warm October day in 1943 Desmond Murphy dived from one of the Victoria Bridge supports into the Yarra River. What incited this action will never be known as Desmond could only dog-paddle, at best. The water depth was 25 foot (7.6 metres).

The shouts of a companion alerted a number of people near the river, to where Desmond was lying face down in the current.

A schoolmaster was able to drag the, “… almost drowned boy from the Yarra,” to the river bank 75 yards (68 metres) from where Desmond had dived in. A group of adults gathered around the boy seemingly at a loss as to what to do next.

Young Noel arrived shortly after his father, and at a glance perceived that little was being done to save the boy, other than shaking him.

“Stand aside please, that is not the correct way to revive him,” said Noel in an authoritative voice.

The bystanders parted way and Noel efficiently began to resuscitate him as he had been taught and practiced at Scouts.

After several minutes Desmond seemed to respond to the effort being made, but then relapsed into unconsciousness. Noel was obliged to continue his resuscitation technique until Desmond coughed and began to talk.

A doctor who attended Desmond at the river bank said there was, “… no doubt the boy would have died if he had not received Noel’s prompt treatment.”

Robert McWhirter was effusive in his admiration of his son: “Noel was just like an old soldier, at the sound of his voice the adults stood aside.” High praise indeed but Noel’s response: “Can’t we forget it Dad?” The General Secretary of the Boy Scouts Association, when

informed of Noel’s intervention stated, “It is correct that Scouts are taught the recognised life-saving methods as part of their training.” Desmond Murphy later indicated he intended to become a Scout.

Noel continued his scouting endeavours until he left school after gaining his Merit certificate at age 15. He was apprenticed as a hand engraver to the firm of J W Handley, jewellers, watch makers and manufacturers of precision optical instruments.

As a young man Noel continued his outdoor activities, once riding from Melbourne to Geelong on his bicycle. After being subjected to a deluge at Lara and upon arriving cold and soaked to the skin at his sister’s home in Drumcondra Ave, he was given a hot bath and sent home by train in his brother-inlaw’s clothes.

In 1956 Noel married Judy Webber after she also began working for the firm of J W Handley. They had two children, Richard and Lynore. Noel and Judy were ardent Cats supporters and during Geelong’s home games would travel by car to meet their extended Geelong family before the game.They would then all travel to his sister Millie’s home for a family meal of roast lamb and vegetables.

Sadly Noel passed away at the early age of 63 in 1995.

The author is indebted to Judy McWhirter and Barry and Pam Morgan for their assistance.

WORDS: BARRY ABLEY

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[social] network

The Gordon Fashion Show 2015 1

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1. GARY AND JESSICA BURBIDGE. 2. BRI VOGT AND KRISTAN SIMON. 3. AIMEE BURBIDGE AND DANN FERRIER. 4. BRITTNEY BERGER AND MADDI NICHOLS. 5. LISA AND MICHELLE SIMON. 6. MARLI O’DONNELL AND JORDAN BRENCHLEY. 7. ALLIE GUY AND MARDI SPITTLE. 8. TRENT ROWAN AND CHLOE SIMMONS. 9. GAVIN AND KERRYN SIMMONS.

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WINES Winemaker James Thomas presents the finest drops from Clyde Park for this summer.

$35

$35

$30

$40

Clyde Park 2015 Estate Pinot Gris

Clyde Park 2015 Estate Sauvignon Blanc

Clyde Park 2015 Estate Rose

Clyde Park 2014 Estate Pinot Noir

This wine has a lot of fruit character on the nose, with apple/pear characters as well as musk, spice and floral undertones.

The full, quite broad palate is kept in check by the phenolics on the back palate, providing a lovely grip on the finish to give length and structure.

Cellar until 2020.

Aromas like nettles and cut grass, gooseberry and subtle passionfruit are joined by vanilla and cream undertones.

The palate is full bodied and intense, its acidity driving on to a long textural finish.

Cellar until 2018.

This rose presents strawberries and cream aromas on the nose, with floral/rose-like characteristics as well as hints of musk and spice.

The palate is soft and textural but with enough acidity and structure to ensure the wine works with food as well as on its own.

Cellar until 2018.

Elegantly fragranced on the nose yet hinting toward power and presence on the palate, reflecting low yields from the 2014 vintage.

Lifted rose petal and red fruits mingle with spice, savoury elements and mineral undertones.

Good balance and poise, considerable mid-palate weight, good length and a James Halliday rating of 96.

Cellar until 2020-plus.

1195367-36-15

Taste of Italy LOCAL wine producer Santa & D’Sas draws on its Italian heritage.

Co-owner and winemaker Matthew Di Sciascio worked two vintages at wineries near his family’s village, Capoposta, in the mountainous Abruzzo region of Italy.

“Wine plays an integral role in every meal,” Matthew says.

“Life’s all about family, so sitting around a table and sharing good food is a large part of that.

SANTA

& D,SAS WINES

$22 NV Prosecco A King Valley prosecco with vibrant colour and a distinctive, complex nose of fresh white blossom, white melon and citrus.

The refined texture is coupled with a fine, soft mousse and flavours of green apple, sweet almonds, with spicy note laced by white chocolate.

Great as an aperitif or with finger food and delicate dishes.

“For me, wine is food. It’s part of the meal in the same way you squeeze lemon over fish or sprinkle cheese on pasta.

$98 2013 Graal Bannockburn Geelong Pinot Noir magnum A weighty, powerful wine that displays softness and elegance as it evolves.

The complex nose of succulent red and dark fruits, briar and undergrowth finishes with truffles and salty-earth perfume.

Textured and round, the wonderfully layered palate features fine tannins interlaced with spice and dark cherry in a wine that will age gracefully.

Matthew recommends prosecco as this summer’s “bubbles”.

“Around the world it’s become more popular than champagne. Our nonvintage prosecco is perfect for the festive season and our 2015 Rosato is simply summer in a bottle.”

Matthew’s weighty, powerful 2013 ‘Graal’ pinot noir is sold in a limited run of 1.5-litre magnums as an ideal wine for Christmas lunch.

Matthew highly recommends it as an accompaniment to Christmas staples like ham or roast turkey with cranberry sauce.

$30

2015 Rosato

2015 Henty Pinot i Gris i

A fresh, dry style using Sangiovese as the base variety for a vibrant nose of cranberry, rose petal and spicy bell pepper.

Intense flavours of sweet cherry and raspberries are intertwined with moro oranges and pink peppercorns.

With a long, dry yet balanced palate of natural fruit sweetness, this wine is ideal with summer tapas.

Made in the classic Alsace style with an Australian twist, this wine is rich, complex and textured yet balanced by great acidity.

Intense aromas of nashi pear, white blossom and lemon rind complement a palate of citrus, fig and custard apple.

Wild yeast fermentation and lees-stirring in seasoned French oak puncheons add finesse and elegance for a crisp, balanced finish.

1206437-ACM47-15

More information about Santa & D’Sas is available at santandsas.com.au.

$22

www.santandsas.com.au stockists: Barwon Heads Wine Store − Corkscrew Cellars Torquay − Chas Cole Cellars Geelong Wine Domaine East Geelong − Bottles & Barrels West Geelong

Autentico

Italiano IT’S A deep love of authentic Italian cuisine that lies behind Borgata, a quality addition to Lara’s growing restaurant scene.

“It is this quality and authenticity that will set Borgata apart from all other local restaurants.

Within the expanded Lara Shopping Centre, Borgata, which translates as “suburban”, will reflect owner Piero’s 44 years’ experience as a chef and proprietor in the Australian restaurant industry.

“I want to pour my love of food into the dishes I prepare, to provide customers with an exemplary dining experience of a calibre not currently available in the area.”

“The vision I have for Borgata is a simple one,” Piero explains.

“I want to provide customers with taste service presentation and ambience that will make them feel like they have stumbled upon a little slice of Italy, right there in regional Victoria.

“Working beside many talented European chefs, I have developed the culinary skills to prepare an exceptional meal and a keen eye for the flavours that patrons enjoy the most.

“Food quality is assured with my use of freshly cooked meats, seasonal fruit and vegetable, homemade pastas, freshly made pizza dough, home-grown herbs and authentic imported condiments.

To complement the menu Piero envisages an atmosphere of relaxed elegance and authentic Italian culture.

“I want diners to see that quality extends to all facets of the business, while still feeling comfortable bringing their children for a nice family lunch or dinner.”

Lara’s continual expansion provides the support for a restaurant so unique to the area that patrons don’t always need to venture to Geelong or Melbourne to experience a quality meal.

Look out for Borgata being established soon in the Coles complex in Lara Village.

Borgata will offier an authentic Italian experience.

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LUNCH & DINNER

OPENING SOON LARA VILLAGE - COLES COMPLEX 1204575-LN48-15

[green] thumbs

A garden is great for wellbeing ... it,s more than just the physical health, it,s also psychological...

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The grounds of a Queenscliff church manse host a magnificent confluence of gardening and art. JOHN VAN KLAVEREN tours the handiwork of Kerring Lingham and Charles Gallacher.

IT WAS a love of gardening instilled by both grandmothers that inspired Kerrie Lingham to establish her eternally evolving seaside environment.

Kerrie makes extensive use of pots and raised beds to plant a wider variety than the high-PH sandy lime soil would normally allow.

Working with a few previously established trees, Kerrie and fellow Uniting church minister Charles “the forced labour” Gallacher created a garden both productive and ornamental.

Charles utilises his artistic techniques and recycled items to fashion various sculptures, including a ball and a large bowl, along with old car leaf springs and fan covers.

“I love gardening and I love hospitality and the garden allows me to put the two together,” Kerrie says.

A frog pond is a recent addition, under a nesting box aimed at attracting birdlife that still seems to prefer the houses eaves, Kerrie laughs.

The pair moved into the Queenscliff Point Lonsdale Uniting Church manse, a classic red-brick residence with a prime position on the Queenscliff foreshore, 17 years ago.

“There was a fig tree, a lemon tree and a peppermint tree already here and they crop prolifically each year,” Kerrie says.

“But other than that it was mainly just grass.”

Built in 1930, the magnificent period residence predates contemporary green design with a huge underground brick-lined water tank built-in underneath, known as a bottle well, cut into the limestone and fed from the roof.

Using her farm upbringing for inspiration, Kerrie worked with Charles to incorporate traditional fruit and vegetable production and recycled art along with some moremodern techniques.

A no-dig garden bed is fringed with a fence made from rescued rusty farm fencing wire.

Pea straw bales have created a raised garden, with bean plants embedded in the straw.

Charles Gallacher and Kerrie Lingham in the colourful manse grounds.

PICTURES: REG RYAN

A pair of wicking beds, built up from a carpet base and layered with scoria, shade cloth, foil, soil and compost, are self-watering, with the moisture wicking up through the layers.

But the rosellas and honeyeaters, along with bees and other insect life, are all welcome, even if they help themselves to some of the produce occasionally.

Succulents have been grouped under the peppermint tree and a blue-themed garden takes up a handy space at the rear near an external garage.

Little pathways of brick and pebbles link the varied aspects of the garden.

Producing quince, limes, oranges, apples, herbs, rhubarb, artichokes, capsicums, eggplant, tomato and spring onion, Kerrie and Charles also do a lot of preserving and pickling.

The produce is generously shared, along with the garden itself, as part of the church and wider community. The garden was opened earlier this year along with five others around Queenscliff.

“People love being out here,” Kerrie says.

“A garden is great for wellbeing; it’s more than just the physical health, it’s also psychological.

“There’s abundance here but not just of produce but also love, smiles, even sadness if it’s appropriate.”

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1204207-PB46-15

112 Fyans St South Geelong Vic 3220 | 03 5221 4081 sales@teakliving.com.au | www.teakliving.com.au

Peak

teak THE beauty of premium plantation teak outdoor furniture is more than just its looks – longevity is also a key part of the attraction.

Teak Living’s Craig Robotham is an unabashed fan of the hard-wearing, beautiful wood, establishing his business in Grovedale two years ago and recently moving to a new South Geelong showroom.

Ask Craig about the benefits of teak and he becomes a wealth of knowledge.

“Teak is the premium wood for outdoor furniture because it is so dense water does not penetrate, so it doesn’t rot or splinter if left outside in the elements,” Craig says.

“Instead it turns a silver grey colour as it weathers and does not need any maintenance.

“However if you prefer to maintain the original wood colour you can oil it with an outdoor furniture oil.”

It’s that long-lasting beauty that allows homeowners to create a beautiful backyard, patio or pool deck space with quality furniture that enhances their lifestyle.

Teak Living has a range of traditional teak wood pieces as well as more contemporary looks, mixing teak and stainless steel.

It turns a silver grey colour as it weathers and does not need any maintenance...

There’s also pieces made from reclaimed teak which has been re-milled and turned into a beautiful rustic look.

Teak Living has partnered with the most respected teak manufacturers in Indonesia, with all product Forest Stewardship Council certified, plantation grown and ecologically harvested.

“We are extremely proud of the relationships we are building with individual customers, designers, architects, landscapers and commercial institutions throughout the country.”

Teak Living is at 112 Fyans St South Geelong, phone 5221 4081.

Right: Craig Robotham with some of his prized teak products at Teak Living.

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[home] bodies

Accumulating passions JOHN VAN KLAVEREN immerses himself in the eclectic decor of Heather McFarlane-Kolb’s Villa De Mar.

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LITTLE pieces of the world fill bay-side Villa De Mar. It’s a far cry from when Heather McFarlane-Kolb first moved into the two-storey red-brick Drumcondra house, occupying a prime position on the waterfront.

“The place was pretty empty when I first moved here,” Heather reflects on beginning life with late husband Othmar.

Some 30 odd years later the home is filled to the brim with items of interest, curiosity and rarity.

Heather’s Austrian-born husband liked to visit family in his homeland often, with the trips also taking in a variety of interest-points along the journey. The travel bug has since continued for Heather.

“I’m not sure I’m a collector,” she smiles.

“I think I’m more of an accumulator.”

But there is no doubt Heather has an eye for the quirky and unusual, as well as good taste in the artistic, the welldesigned and the eclectic.

“It makes you feel good about your surroundings. It’s like going on a holiday every time I come back to the house,” Heather philosophises.

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>>>

Heather Kolb amid her eclectic collection inside Drumcondra’s Villa De Mar. PICTURES: GREG WANE

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Indeed, moving from room to room evokes completely different flavours, from Indian-themed upstairs dressing room to the Austin Powers movie memorabilia in the shed-cum-garage.

, , I m not sure I m a collector ... I think I,m more of an accumulator...

But the strongest influence is Heather’s mysterious background, pieced together gradually as she grew up on a dairy farm while spending copious amounts of time at her great-uncle and aunt’s Airey’s inlet property.

While understanding that she was adopted, it was only later in life that Heather discovered her birth father was from north-west Pakistan, near the Afghan border.

It explains, Heather concedes readily, her predilection for the oriental and sub-continental, including a Buddhist shrine in the entry.

But her antecedents have by no means defined her as Heather points out porcelain collections, delicate embroidery and elaborate wood carvings.

“Some items were bought at auction, some in op shops and markets, some are centuries-old pieces like the French period furniture,” Heather indicates.

Part of the collection is an appreciation for the artistry of the many handcrafted and hand painted pieces, a stark contrast

to the cheaply manufactured items so freely available in our culture.

But that’s not to say popular culture has been eschewed entirely – Heather’s shed contains an equally eclectic array of pop art, movie memorabilia and the weird and wonderful, such as the ultimate garage fridge disguised as a Mobil petrol pump.

With roller doors installed at either end, the linear garage also houses a Bentley and a BMW, although neither are Heather’s usual drive.

“I can appreciate having the opportunity to collect such a variety of pieces,” Heather says.

“Not only do they hold many memories but they embody the personal touch that I think we have lost to a large extent.”

The opportunity came about from her wide variety of roles, from nurse to researcher, fashion designer and property developer.

Heather even wrote a dissertation on falls prevention, accepted for publication in a respected international nursing journal. Part of her travels included a stint as an exchange student in Michigan in the US. While property development was largely the province of her late husband, Heather has taken up the baton, building a retreat in bushland at Lorne called The Qii, meaning ‘energy inspired by nature’.

Her travels have gravitated more so to the Great Ocean Road for now, but Heather promises she still has a desire for more accumulating to be done.

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T

Geelong has

LENT

NEW talent agency Models One Australia has recently opened office in the heart of Geelong.

It is led by Ayesha Karigiri, Naghee Karigiri and Frank Hargreaves, with over 35 years of combined experience in the industry.

Models One Australia recruits talents and screens them for jobs in movies, television series, TV commercials, advertisements, catalogue opportunities and promotional work.

The agency is not limited to modelling, also managing actors, extras, presenters, dancers, singers and musicians.

With a vast established network of industry contacts across the local, national and international scene, Models One Australia casts for a range of careerbuilding opportunities including fashion catwalks, commercial photo shoots, gigs, catalogues, advertisements, and auditions for film and television productions.

The agency is recruiting talent of all age groups, genders, nationalities, shapes and sizes.

“We’re the largest agency in Geelong dedicated to modelling and TV opportunities,“ Mr Karigiri says.

“There’s no set criteria for the kind of people we’re looking for. We’re always looking for a new face, so experience isn’t always necessary. The main quality we find absolutely essential is that they execute their role with confidence.

“Our interview process involves meeting us face-toface. We need to have an understanding of who they are, their interests and skillset.”

Anyone intending to approach the agency for an interview requires a photograph of themselves and a good attitude.

Models One Australia will host four three-day workshops over December and January, honing in on the basics of modelling.

Valuable tips on presentation, how to impress judges during an audition and how to break into the industry will be addressed to give participants a taste for the reality of a modelling career.

For more details about the Models One Australia team, visit modelsoneaus.com.

Phone 5298 3785 for more information. Models One Australia is at suite 18, level one, Small Business Centre, 50-58 Moorabool St, Geelong.

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MODELS ONE AUSTRALIA IS HERE IN THE HEART OF GEELONG

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[health] & fitness

BODY Conquest is a leading personal training service led by Ingrid Barclay, with 20 years of experience in the fitness industry. She has displayed high performance skills in the areas of strength conditioning, dietary development and performance development.

As a seasoned competitor, coach and judge, Ingrid provides a wealth of knowledge to clients, encouraging them to live healthier, more active lifestyles.

Ingrid recommends three movements as pinnacle exercises to increase core strength – the deadlift, squat and bench press.

Each are multi-joint exercises that, in Ingrid’s opinion, should form the basis of any resistance based program as they deliver “the most bang for your buck”.

Having strong back and abdominal muscles have benefits that really y enhance day to day life and functionality. . .

“Having strong back and abdominal muscles have benefits that really enhance day to day life and functionality. When the core muscles of the body are stronger, so is the whole body,” Ingrid says.

“Everything you do is enhanced and the prospects for aging gracefully increase dramatically if you have and maintain a strong core.

Ingrid recommends performing the deadlift, bench press and squat (performed by Ingrid, Renata and Jai respectively in the accompanying images) at the start of each workout for maximum benefits.

Phone 0424 180 093 or visit bodyconquest.com.au for more information.

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Deadlift The deadlift is a great exercise to help develop the lower body, back and overall strength, with emphasis on the lower back, hamstrings and glutes. But nearly all muscles are involved.

Firstly, pull the weight up from the floor and stand with both legs straight and shoulders pulled back. It is important to stand in a neutral position to keep pressure off the spine and lower back muscles.

Once clasping the bar with a reverse grip – one hand over, one hand under – drive the weight up from your heels through the legs until standing straight.

When lowering the bar back to the ground, ensure thighs are kept parallel to the ground with your knees directly over your feet. The buttocks should be kept low to the ground during the downward motion part of this step.

Bench Press Lie on the flat bench with your eyes under the bar. Lift your chest and squeeze your shoulder-blades, keeping feet flat on the floor. Grab the bar. Place your pinky finger on the ring marks of the bar and hold the bar in the base of your palm with a full grip and straight wrists.

Take a deep breath and remove the bar from the rack by straightening your arms. Move the bar over your shoulders, locking your elbows. Lower the bar to your mid-chest while tucking your elbows at a 75째 angle. Keep your forearms vertical and hold your breath at the bottom.

Press the bar from the mid-chest to above the shoulders.

Keep your buttocks on the bench and lock your elbows at the top. Breathe.

The bench press works muscles in the chest, shoulders and triceps, increasing overall upper body strength.

Squat Take a deep breath, step under the bar and remove it from the rack. Position both feet about a shoulder width, or slightly farther, apart.

Take another deep breath, contract your abs and descend as though sitting back on a chair behind you, rather than moving in a direct downward motion. Keep your knees in line with your feet. It is crucial you do not let your knees bow in at any stage during the lift. Alter the width if need be.

Most people can and should descend until their thighs are parallel to the ground. Drive from the heel back to the starting position.

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CALENDAR of EVENTS DECEMBER 24 Geelong Carols

by Candlelight Staged in the natural amphitheatre of the historic Johnstone Park, Geelong Carols

by Candlelight is a great evening for the whole family.

The traditional carols programme features some of Geelong’s best artists and choirs, along with lots of carol singing.

Johnstone Park Geelong

JANUARY 9

FEBRUARY 6

Portarlington Mussel Festival

Great Australian Beer Festival

This year the Portarlington Mussel Festival celebrates its 10th birthday. Initially established to promote the Portarlington mussel industry, the festival now boasts a full day of activities including live entertainment, kids’ activities, cooking demonstrations, art and photo exhibitions, classic car displays, food and wine producers and products to try and buy. Entry costs $2.

Newcombe Street Portarlington

Spend a summer’s day meandering through Australia’s biggest alfresco beer garden. Patrons are invited to indulge in a delightful journey of sipping, sampling and tasting some of the 150 craft beers and ciders on offer.

A great line up of performers will also be entertaining throughout the day.

Geelong Racecourse, Breakwater gabfgeelong.com.au

12

26

31

Australia Day Children’s Free Fun Day and Entertainment

Camp Quality Geelong Convoy

Celebrate Australia Day at Rippleside Park with over 40 free activities and displays for families and children to enjoy.

There will be stage entertainment all day long with roving entertainers including Dame Edna Average. Dazzling Dan will also be entertaining with his magic show along with The MikMaks and lots more.

Rippleside Park Drumcondra

The Camp Quality Geelong Convoy is kicking off its second year this Valentine’s Day with rides, stalls, entertainment and a lead truck auction. With 257 participants in 2015, numbers are expected to double.

This will allow Camp Quality Victoria to support more children living with cancer. $50 entry includes a Convoy T-shirt.

Avalon Airport Geelong Showgrounds

30-31

Central Geelong New Year’s Firework Display A free public fireworks display at midnight will celebrate the start of 2016 and say goodbye to 2015 on the Geelong Waterfront.

There will also be an earlier fireworks display at dusk for kids and families between 9-9.30pm.

Waterfront Geelong

Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race

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The hugely successful Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race is back in 2016 and is set to attract even more of the world’s best cycling teams. The race gives Victorians and interstate guests a chance to pay tribute to a national sporting icon and an opportunity to ride the renowned circuit.

Geelong and Surf Coast cadelevansgreatoceanroadrace.com.au

Pako Festa Pako Festa returns for its 34th year.

A street parade featuring 90+ floats and hundreds of performers will kick off the festival at 11am. The street will be lined with multicultural food stalls, open bars, cafes and a variety of artistic and cultural expression.

Pakington St, Geelong West pakofesta.com.au 78

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If you long for somewhere to call home that keeps you close to the lifestyle you love, then Warralily Coast could be the answer. Quick and convenient access to the beach is at the heart of Warralily Coast, but the reasons to love it don’t end there. Quiet leafy residential streets, with a strong sense of coastal place, will be complemented by extensive parks and waterways. There will be a local sporting precinct, primary school and of course, childcare. Meandering walking and cycling trails will connect you to Armstrong Creek and the neighbouring Warralily Estate. Located on the Mt Duneed side of Armstrong Creek, Warralily Coast is close to Geelong, Torquay, Geelong Lutheran College and the Mt Duneed Primary school. The Coast is calling and it could be your answer.