INSIDE THIS EDITION…
VISION OF HOPE, PAGE 4
26 February - 10 March, 2020
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Green focus for festival
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Our Lady Star of the Sea Primary School is gearing up for a massive EarthFest. The Ocean Grove-based school is hosting a twilight community event with a focus on sustainable living. EarthFest will feature live music, family activities, food stalls and displays from community groups, sustainable businesses and environmental organisations. It’s the second year that the school has been involved in EarthFest which is aimed at educating, promoting and advocating for sustainable living. EarthFest is on Friday, March 20 from 4.15pm to 7.30pm at Ocean Grove Park. The festival will be opened by Wildlife Xposure group at 4.15pm. EarthFest entry is by gold coin donation and proceeds go to Our Lady Star of the Sea outdoor learning area. Local businesses wanting to support the event can email earthfest@ staroceangrove.catholic.edu.au Search for ‘EarthFest Ocean Grove’ on Facebook for more information.
Footpath safety concern By Justin Flynn An Ocean Grove resident has claimed a planned footpath along hacker Street is a “nightmare waiting to happen”. Joanne Eaton said Geelong council’s plans to build a footpath network in Ocean Grove would make hacker Street more unsafe. Ms Eaton lives near the roundabout at Spray Street and on top of the notorious ‘big dipper’. She said motorists oten fail to slow down ater exiting the roundabout and she fears it will become even more unsafe for pedestrians if a footpath is built along hacker Street. “People are at risk of cars screaming around
the roundabout up onto the nature strip … it’s happened twice here before,” Ms Eaton said. “If it wasn’t for the rocks I put out the front to stop people doing U-turns, people would have been right up here and if someone had have been walking … slam. “I’d love to have a dollar for every time a car has smashed through that roundabout.” he details of the Principal Pedestrian Network are yet to be inalised, however council expects that property owners will need to help pay for some of it, something Ms Eaton opposes. Ms Eaton is suggesting the footpath, if built, should detour from the roundabout, down
Spray Street and around to Blue Waters Lake. She said she was not suggesting the changes to potentially avoid having to contribute to the payment of the footpath if a ‘user pays’ system is introduced by council. She initially recommended the changes in 1992. “People on mobility scooters are at risk. Skateboarders, and people wanting to the cross the road to get to the footpath are at risk,” Ms Eaton said. “I’m also suggesting a safe haven (pedestrian refuge) near the roundabout so people can cross and a diversion around Spray Street. But I would prefer to see no footpaths at all.”
Ms Eaton said she felt more motorists were using hacker Street to get to Barwon Heads or Geelong to avoid the new Kingston Village Shopping Centre and having to drive past he Terrace. Geelong mayor Stephanie Asher, who lives in Ocean Grove, said Ms Eaton’s suggestion would be considered. “I can entirely see the merit of this suggestion as it could result in greater safety for pedestrians,” she said. “he resident is well aware of the terrain and puts a good case forward … we’re happy to take the suggestion on board and consider it, along with all other feedback, before making a inal decision.”
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Wildlife rescues questioned Western Victoria MP Stuart Grimley has questioned why rapid response carers have not been called on to help injured wildlife living in ire-ravaged areas. Mr Grimley asked Energy, Environment and Climate Change Minister Lily D’Ambrosio why there have been “minimal callouts” of rapid response carers to ire-afected areas, in a timely manner, to ensure maximum survival rates of native and endangered species. It comes ater Mr Grimley met with Tehree Gordon – owner of Jirrahlinga Koala & Wildlife Sanctuary and a trained rapid response carer – in Barwon Heads recently to
discuss why she had not been called to assist in rescuing wildlife despite being fully qualiied to do so. Following the 2009 Black Saturday bushires, Ms Gordon attended a government-funded training program to equip herself with knowledge and skills to be able to retrieve sick and injured wildlife that were still alive in ire-afected areas. Her irst rescue was following Ash Wednesday. Despite this accreditation, in the weeks following the eastern Victorian bushires Ms Gordon said she had not been contacted by any
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Tehree Gordon and her team of volunteers do an outstanding job - Stuart Grimley
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government department to rescue animals. As part of the training, volunteers were able to purchase state government-approved boots, clothing and equipment. Mr Grimley said instead of accredited, skilled carers being invited to rescue animals with correct equipment and safety clothing, ireighters and everyday Victorians were
saving animals. “It is extremely disappointing that for weeks, rapid response carers weren’t invited by the government to rescue our sick and injured wildlife considering there were a number who were ready to help out,” he said. “In future, the government need to be more prepared to send qualiied rescuers into safe bushire-afected areas so more of our wildlife have a chance of survival. “Tehree Gordon and her team of volunteers do an outstanding job at Jirrahlinga and following the bushires, I know they will continue to stand up for our wildlife.”
New lease for the Heads A 21-year lease for one of the Bellarine Peninsula’s most photographed buildings is open for tender. At he Heads restaurant on the foreshore at Barwon Heads boasts wide, sweeping ocean views towards Port Phillip Heads and is an integral part of the dining and tourism ofering in the Geelong and Bellarine region. he existing facility provides a highly popular cafe, restaurant and function space. It has a long history, and became famous in the 1990s, featuring in the ABC TV series Seachange. At he Heads is managed by Barwon Coast, a coastal committee of management appointed by the state government. Barwon Coast expects the tender process will deliver the best amenity and value for money outcomes with direct beneits for all Victorians who use and enjoy the coast.
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“he preferred tenderer will be determined through a clear, transparent and robust evaluation process consistent with Victorian government guidance,” Barwon Coast chief executive Gary McPike said. he tender will remain open until March 20. All tender documentation is available via: tenderlink.com/barwoncoast. For more information, visit, barwoncoast. com.au/athlease
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Film gives vision of hope By Natalee Kerr
Top: Ocean Grove ilmmaker Diana Fisk. Above: Alie Fisk with mum Diana; and with Geelong paralympian Jessica Gallagher. (Pictures: Supplied)
“If we saw someone with nystagmus living their everyday life it would’ve reduced our fear.” True Vision premieres on March 15 at 6.30pm on ABC and iView.
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he mother-of-two hopes the ilm gives “relief” to families going through similar experiences. “I would’ve done anything to stumble across a positive story,” Diana said.
Several Bellarine Peninsula organisations were successful in receiving a Geelong council Community Infrastructure Grant. he grant, which has increased to $3.1 million for this inancial year, is distributed to support community upgrades and additions. Rotary Club of Ocean Grove received a grant of $6750 towards a new barbecue trailer. Portarlington Football Netball Club received $25,164 for netball court loodlighting replacements, while Portarlington Sailing Club was handed $4700 for a concept plan of a clubhouse upgrade. Indented Head Community Association received $66,000 for a tennis court and basketball multipurpose facility and Portarlington Bayside Miniature Railway was awarded $9560 for safety fencing. “Councillors are proud to have thrown their support behind these 30 successful groups and clubs, ater assessments and recommendations from internal and external panels,” mayor Stephanie Asher said. “he recipients, like so many groups around the region, provide valuable support, opportunity and friendship to our residents. “I encourage members of interested community groups and clubs to apply for the grants rounds opening in February.”
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An Ocean Grove ilmmaker is set to showcase her most “personal” project on national television next month. Writer, director and producer Diana Fisk’s documentary True Vision shares the story of her son, Alie, who lives with a rare eye disease. Following his four-month maternal health check-up, Alie received the diagnosis of nystagmus – a condition where the eyes make repetitive uncontrolled movements. “he nurse looked into his eyes and I could tell she thought something was wrong,” Diana told the Voice. Unable to book a specialist appointment until months later, Diana went online in a bid to ind answers. “When we were researching nystagmus there just wasn’t anything positive,” she recalls. “he things we were reading were horriic. I thought he would be bullied, socially isolated and unable to ind work. “We were in fear of what our boy’s future would look like.” Alie is now a happy ive-year-old who recently started school, Diana said. “If you ask Alie, there would be no problem,” she said. “We deinitely don’t see it as something that impacts us.” True Vision weaves together Alie’s story with the achievements of Geelong Paralympian Jess Gallagher. Despite becoming legally blind ater being diagnosed with stargardt disease at age 17, Gallagher, now 33, became the irst Australian athlete to medal at both the winter and summer games. Diana said the documentary explores the perceptions associated with diagnosis and disability.
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Shedding the retirement blues By Natalee Kerr A bunch of blokes who share a love of music will soon be gathering on a regular basis across the Bellarine Peninsula. Following an overwhelming response to a call-out in October last year, the Shedding the Blues initiative launched at the Queensclif RSL Hall on February 21. With support from Queensclif Neighbourhood House and Bellarine Community Health (BCH), the initiative hopes to promote men’s mental health and wellbeing through music. Shedding the Blues co-ordinator Des Gorman said the group targets “mature-aged” men who have completed full-time work or who are preparing for retirement. “his cohort of men can be at risk if they are not connected to their community,” he told the Voice. “his age group of males are at increased risk of experiencing a wide range of health conditions that can afect their quality of life and that social isolation is quite common when work life concludes. “We know that music is so powerful in encouraging healthy social interactions and in ensuring that our cognitive capacity continues to thrive as we age.” More than 80 people attended the launch, including Corangamite MP Libby Coker, local musicians, councillors, and community leaders. he day featured a range of music-related activities. Some attendees brought along homemade ukulele and guitars to play, Mr Gorman said. “It was fantastic,” he said. “We couldn’t stop them from playing music. “It was lovely to watch and listen to people
Guest performer Gary Banks entertains the crowd with music and stories. Inset: More than 80 people attended the launch. (Picctures: Supplied)
enjoying themselves while playing the instruments. “he Bellarine has such a rich history of music tradition, there are so many people in the community who have that interest and this is a way of maintaining and enhancing that.”
he group will aim to make music together, construct and maintain musical instruments, deepen their knowledge of various musical styles, and learn new instruments. Members are particularly looking forward to making or repairing instruments for the
community including in kindergartens and schools, according to Mr Gorman. Men who are keen to connect through music can ind out more by contacting Mr Gorman on 0407 546 391 or emailing desgorman@ bigpond.com
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Litter, dog poo a winter wonder By Natalee Kerr Local beaches are scattered with 60 per cent more dog poo and litter during winter than in the “busy” summer period, new data reveals. A “dedicated” community volunteer has discovered the highest volume of rubbish along a section of the Ocean Grove coastline was during July last year, according to Barwon Coast. he volunteer collected 1766 pieces of dog waste and 3359 rubbish items across 25 days in July.
In comparison, December’s tally across 30 days showed 759 pieces of dog waste and 1738 rubbish items collected. Last October and December had the highest number of days when litter was present in the area, but July showed the highest volume of litter overall. Barwon Coast community liaison and education manager Maddie Glynn said the data set highlighted some “concerning” trends. “It may come as a surprise to many that we have more litter on our beaches outside of the busy summer season,” she said.
“his highlights that we all have a duty of care to be responsible for the volume of litter we bring down to the beach and how we choose to dispose of it.” he volunteer has been collecting litter data since 2017 on the three kilometre stretch between 6W at Collendina to 14W in Ocean Grove. he local man has collected more than 76,500 pieces of litter and 21,700 pieces of dog poo from the beach in the past three years, according to Ms Glynn. Ms Glynn described the volunteer, who
wanted to remain anonymous, as a “legend”. “He does it because he’s passionate, he cares and doesn’t want to see it on our coastline,” she said. “Every month he provides the data to us, he’s out there every day collecting rubbish unless he is on holidays.” Collected waste includes micro plastics, polystyrene, baby dummies, food wrappers and cigarette packages, according to Ms Glynn. She urged people to bring less when coming to the beach, clean up ater their dogs and dispose of all rubbish responsibly.
Favourite comes ‘home’ A familiar face was back in red and white at Ocean Grove senior football pre-season training this month. Former Western Bulldogs AFL coach Brendan McCartney, a four-time Ocean Grove Football premiership coach from 1994-97, had an active role at Grubbers’ training at Ray Menzies Memorial Oval on February 5. New Ocean Grove senior coach Pete Davey said McCartney, who will help mentor Davey in 2020, wanted to help out at training. “Brendan has asked to come down … this is the best part about having Macca involved, he wants to get involved. “It is funny watching the guys tonight (February 6) it is like this is the most attuned to coaching (they’ve been) since day one,” Davey said. “hey have been watching and learning, you can see in their eyes they are very keen.” McCartney assisted and oversaw various club training drills on the night.
He said the youthful Grubbers showed good intent on the track and he was impressed by the club’s new direction in promoting future home-grown youth. “I am passionate about developing junior footy,” he said. “I want to give back to a club that was really important in my life – I loved the ive years I had here (at Ocean Grove), it was an incredible working experience. “he nucleus is here, there is a really good of-ield group of people, really clear about what they want. McCartney departed the Melbourne Demons AFL senior assistant coaching ranks in 2019. He is the current Geelong Falcons’ girls coach and runs a footy school across Victoria, including the Geelong region, which helps the education and development of junior football coaching in schools. Mark Heenan
New coach Pete Davey alongside mentor Brendan McCartney, who oversaw Ocean Grove Football Club’s pre-season training. (Mark Heenan Media)
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Lights brighten up reserve By Natalee Kerr A local football club will no longer need to use temporary lighting ater the installation of four “long-awaited” light towers. Ocean Grove Cobras Junior Football Club president Dennis Hateley was thrilled to see the new lights installed at the club’s home ground, Collendina Reserve this month. “he new lights mean we can now use the entire ground for the kids,” he said. “It creates much more suitable conditions for training and gives us the opportunity to run
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It’s caused a little bit of excitement around the club - Dennis Hateley
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some games on a Friday night.” Mr Hateley said the previous “poor” lighting system was inadequate for the club’s hundreds of members who regularly use the reserve. “here were only two lights on one side of the ground and we had to purchase a mobile light tower to illuminate the other side,” he said.
“hese new lights will make a massive diference.” he upgrade will distribute light eiciently, spilling less light into surrounding residential areas, according to Mr Hateley. “he lighting overlow is quite minimal, so in terms of impact for nearby residents they won’t get that glare from looking over towards them,” he said. Mr Hateley said the new lights will also enhance capacity and safety, ensuring the club’s junior football program remains strong. “We’ve seen massive growth in members in
the last three to four years,” he said. “We have about 20 junior teams now and we’ve seen an increase of almost 100 per cent in our Auskick program. “We have upwards of 250 kids down here on a Friday night.” he new light towers, which were funded through a $200,000 grant as part of the state government’s 2018 Pick My Project program, are expected to be operating by next month. “People have noticed they’ve gone up. It’s caused a little bit of excitement around the club ahead of the season,” Mr Hateley said.
A toast to cider he Bellarine is set to host the irst ever Australian Cider Day, paying tribute to the “humble” drink. Organiser Lyndsay Sharp said Flying Brick Cider Co was the irst cidery in the country to partner with national body, Cider Australia, to stage the celebration. he inaugural Australian Cider Day will land at the Wallington venue on March 14 with an array of music, activities and cider on ofer. Ms Sharp said the event was a “huge deal” for the cidery. “We’ve got the fabulous line-up of four tribute bands, lots of great food, cider, wine, beer, cocktails and behind-the-scenes cider-making demonstrations,” she said. “Hopefully it will be a great thing for the region.” A line-up of the “most popular” tribute bands in Australia, including BABBA and local cover band Test Pilot Molly, will rock the venue on the day, according to Ms Sharp.
“Patrons will be entertained all day as they revel in some of the most iconic music the world has ever known,” she said. Flying Brick will give cider-making demonstrations throughout the day, enabling attendees to explore, taste and learn about crating boutique ciders from fresh fruit. A range of beverages will also be available on tap, alongside lots of food oferings. “New release ciders will be on the pour throughout the day, as will a couple of cheeky cocktails the Flying Brick team have been busily devising,” Ms Sharp said. Children under 12 receive free entry, with a jumping castle, face-painting and balloon artist set to keep the kids entertained. Details: www.cidercelebrations.com.au. Natalee Kerr Australia’s irst Cider Day is headed to local venue Flying Brick Cider Co. (Supplied)
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Author’s tale of horror Cliton Springs resident Mark Prowse has published another book, just two years ater taking up writing. His new novel, Face he Music, is a collection of 23 horror stories that he challenges readers “not to ind original”. At 46, Prowse says he is “trying to make up for lost time” ater being hit by the writing bug only recently. “I can’t promise happy endings with my stories, but I can promise a whole bucket of thrills,” he says. “I want to take my readers on a ride, but, in the end, I want to throw them from the carriage.” Prowse has written 75 short stories ranging from 1000 to 10,000 words. His work has been published in 21 anthologies, two of which are on the Horror Writers Association recommended readers list. He has also been published in 33 international journals and magazines including Raconteur, Montreal Writes, he Horror Zine, and ParABnormal Magazine. Four of his stories have also been made into feature-length productions on platforms such as he No Sleep Podcast and he Grey Rooms. “I have worked hard to establish a reputation and following in a very short space of time,” Prowse says. “he ideas come at odd moments – never when I am sitting down in front of the laptop with time allocated. “hey come to me when I converse with clients (his day job is advertising manager), when I am halfway up a mountain, or when I have a million and one things to do. But they keep coming, so I am not complaining.” Face he Music is available on Amazon and at Barnes & Noble and Dymocks.
(Supplied)
By Justin Flynn
RDA’s Betty Minogue and Di McCann with Rotary Ocean Grove’s Marion Walton.
Helping kids ride high Ocean Grove Rotary Art Show has raised $2500 for Riding Develops Abilities (RDA). RDA president Di McCann accepted the cheque, which will be used to help run the program. She said RDA has sufered sizeable annual costs with government funding cuts this year. he money will go towards costs such as horse hire at $20 per horse per child each week, and replacing equipment such as hard hats, which have to be replaced every second year to conform with regulations. A deibrillator ($700) and irst-aid equipment and training for coaches will also be purchased. “It will go towards making our children achieve things that they didn’t think possible,” Ms McCann said. Each week between 12 and 30 children from Geelong and district schools participate in the program. he Rotary Art Show also donated to Trinity Aid for Refugees and Suring for the Disabled. Clifton Springs author Mark Prowse. (Supplied)
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Lifeguard shares his passion Almost ive decades ago, Bill Strachan signed up to become a member of the Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club. he now 58-year-old shares his lifesaving journey with Natalee Kerr. What is your connection to the region? I’ve been in Ocean Grove since I was 12 – I was raised in Canada and then went to Britain for a bit before coming here.
What do you enjoy the most about being a lifeguard? At the pool it’s watching the older people get itter and itter. You see people that come in and can hardly move, but ater ive or six months their whole outlook on life as improved – they’re much better mentally and physically. On the beach it’s educating the young ones on how to do things. I like seeing new members improve their surf lifesaving skills. he surf club gives our young people the ability to grow and acquire skills that they can use for their whole life.
What is your advice for beach-goers this summer?
How have you seen the community change during the years?
population growth and the lack of patience from people is the biggest change.
Preventative actions are more important than the rescuing – that’s the major aim of the surf club. Swim between the lags, listen to local surfers, watch and supervise your children. If you do all that, most people won’t get into trouble.
It’s gone from ive shops in the main street to whatever number there is now. here was no shopping centre and no entertainment. Nothing was open ater midday on a Saturday. It has just gotten busier really – there is too many people and too much traic. I think the
How else are you involved with the community? I’m a member of the Geelong Canoe Club. I’m also a Geelong Football Club member, I love going to the footy.
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I joined the club when I was 13 and got my qualifying certiicate for surf rescue. I became a life member of the club in 2017. We have more than 1000 members at the club now. We’re starting to get third and fourth generation members, it’s great to see. I’ve also coached ski paddling for 15 to 20 years. I’m still doing patrols here, while working as a lifeguard in Geelong and recreation oicer at Kardinia International College. I’m still reasonably it – I hope to keep being involved for as long as I can.
(Rebecca Hosking) 203341_02
You’ve been involved in lifesaving for 46 years, can you tell us about your time in the role?
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By councillor Jim Mason
GENERAL ENQUIRIES, DISPLAY ADVERTISING, DIGITAL ADVERTISING Jack Stoney \ jack.stoney@voicegroup.com.au Amanda Marshall \ amanda.marshall@voicegroup.com.au
Agriculture is a key part of life on the Bellarine and something I’m determined to see protected for as long as I’m a councillor. As chair of the council’s Rural and Peri Urban Advisory Committee, I’m keenly awaiting the results of a feasibility study into a potential livestock and information exchange facility for Greater Geelong. his is due in April. he committee’s desire is to make sure our region has the facilities to keep rural Geelong healthy, local and sustainable. Farmers face many challenges in our modern world, but it’s encouraging to see clever and creative technology being developed right here in our region to make it easier for local producers to get the best out of their land. A group of young engineers based at Deakin have formed a start-up called STRUT and created a smart device that plugs directly into the ground, feeding real-time information on soil and air conditions. he system is being trialled at Leura Park Estate, and if successful it could have long-term beneits for farmers across our region and beyond.
CLASSIFIEDS \ 1300 666 808 FAX \ 5945 0667 EMAIL \ sales@networkclassiieds.com.au REAL ESTATE SALES DIRECTOR \ JACK GILLESPIE jack.gillespie@starweekly.com.au
EDItORIAl EDITOR-IN-CHIEF \ STEPHEN LINNELL EDITOR \ JUSTIN FLYNN newsdesk@voicegroup.com.au GENERAL EDITORIAL INQUIRIES newsdesk@voicegroup.com.au
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Name: Luxe Colls How many years have you been a volunteer surf patrol lifesaver? I have been a surf volunteer patrol lifesaver for ive years.
Why did you want to become a volunteer surf lifesaver? Jim Mason with Rhys Bischof, Ryan Veale and Darcy Baranowski from STRUT. (Supplied)
So I could help people be safe in the water and help them enjoy their time.
As always, there’s been a lot happening around the Bellarine. I’ve been doing the rounds of the ocean swims over summer, including the Ocean Grove SLSC Open Water Swim on January 25. Well done to the surf club on a terriic event. I was also pleased to help open the Festival of Glass in Drysdale on February 16. his is an entirely volunteer-run festival that grows bigger every year. It draws glass artists from around the world and strengthens the magniicent arts culture on the peninsula. Finally, I highly recommend a visit to the National Wool Museum to see the work of artist-in-residence Dr Mary-Jane Walker.
What is your favourite thing about being on a volunteer surf patrol at the Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club? Being part of the patrol group, meeting new people and making the beach safe for other people.
Do you have any superstitions before you complete a shift? We check the best part of the beach to swim, where the rips are, and then we put the red and yellow lags out where they are best suited. I put a hat on, sunglasses and sunscreen on.
What is your favourite beach? I like Thirteenth Beach. CORRECTION The article ’Ocean Grove takes on developers’ in the Voice on February 12 incorrectly stated that the Ocean Grove Business Association was moving to stop developers from encroaching on the town’s settlement boundary. It was, in fact, the Ocean Grove Community Association. The Voice apologises for any confusion caused.
Barwon Coast Update ‘AT THE HEADS’ RESTAURANT LEASE OPEN FOR PUBLIC TENDER A Barwon Coast managed lease for ‘At The Heads’ restaurant in Barwon Heads is now open for public tender until 20th March 2020. A Tender Evaluation Panel will follow State Government procedures to assess tenders and the preferred tenderer will then be recommended to Barwon Coast for approval. Once approved, the successful lessee will enter into 21-year lease under the Crown Land (Reserves) Act 1978, Section 17D lease agreement with Barwon Coast. We see this as a really exciting opportunity to refresh this iconic site, protect its cultural and historic value and ensure it continues to be a valuable asset for visitors to the region and the local community. www.barwoncoast.com.au/athlease THE ‘AT THE HEADS’ RESTAURANT LEASE IS NOW OPEN FOR PUBLIC TENDER.
Queensland.
COLLENDINA • OCEAN GROVE BARWON RIVER ESTUARY • 13TH BEACH
UPCOMING EVENTS… DISABLED SURFERS ASSOCIATION (DSA) OCEAN GROVE EVENT Congratulations to DSA Ocean Grove for supporting 137 particpants to experience the wonder of suring in their February event. They are holding another ‘Let’s Go Suring Day’ on Sunday March 1st. We are proud that the allabilities facilities at Ocean Grove Main Beach are of value at these events. The DSA are keen for wanna-be surfers and volunteers to get involved. www.disabledsurfers.org/vic/ocean-grovebranch/
FESTIVAL OF THE SEA We are happy to again support the Festival of The Sea which runs from March 10 to 14th in Barwon Heads. This festival celebrates our connection to the sea through live music, art, food, education and recreation. Come join in the fun! www.festivalofthesea.com.au/
SHEEPWASH CLASSIC AND DUCK RACE The Sheepwash Classic fun run and ‘The Great Barwon Heads Duck Race’ will be held on April 11th (Easter Saturday). The fun run course traverses Barwon Coast beaches and our scenic coastal paths. We are proud to support these events which raise money for the Barwon Heads Primary School and the Barwon Heads Scouts.
7 Ewing Blyth Drive, Barwon Heads Vic 3227 T: 03 5254 1118 E: ofice@barwoncoast.com.au Committee of Management Inc.
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#SCOOPTHEPOOP
SCOOP THE POOP Lately we have noticed large amounts of dog poo on beaches and pathways. This causes many problems - water quality issues, smell, transfer of disease to other dogs and wildlife and the dreaded stepping in dog poo! We supply dog poo bags at many of our beach accessways, please use them!
PUBLIC ACCESS DEFIBRILLATOR AT OCEAN GROVE SURF BEACH COMPLEX A public access deibrillator has been installed at Ocean Grove Main Beach. The deib is located on the beach facing wall of the Ocean Grove Surf Lifesaving Club (OGSLSC) at ground level. This is a great team effort by Barwon Coast staff, OGSLSC and ‘The Dunes’ restuarant to contribute to public health and safety.
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11 OCEAN GROVE VOICE Wednesday, 26 February, 2020
ENVIRONMENT OCEANGROVEVOICE.COM.AU
Delight over raptor sightings I’ve really enjoyed the last few weeks of summer, as there’s been a lovely mix of sun and glorious rain, and it hasn’t been relentlessly dry and hot like it was this time last year. I haven’t had a lot of time to have a good look around for birds, as I’m preparing for long service leave. I did have a wonderful drive to work on Valentine’s Day, as I saw two magniicent wedge-tailed eagles in Curlewis Road, and then saw two more wedgies in Point Henry a quarter of an hour later. I couldn’t believe my eyes. he next day I drove down Point Wilson Road on my way back from Melbourne and there was another wedge-tailed eagle right next to the road. It made my week to see ive of the biggest raptor in Australia in consecutive days. When I was driving down Point Wilson Road, I noticed an adult and juvenile peregrine falcon lying together, which was lovely to see. he adult peregrine falcon has a black head, blue-black upperparts, and ine bars from the breast to the tail. hey have long tapered wings, and have a straight trailing edge in light. he eye-ring is yellow, while the bill is also yellow with a black tip. he immature bird is much browner, with streaked, rather than barred underparts, and they have a pale bluish eye ring and beak. If a raptor a day keeps the doctor away I’m very healthy for the time being. My friend and Ocean Grove local Jen Franks
Right: Juvenile peregrine falcon. Left: Powerful owl. Above: White-browed scrubwren. (Pictures: Supplied)
had a wonderful bird experience recently, which she described to me as follows: “I was walking in a dense forest gully in country Victoria, when I was stopped in my tracks by a roosting powerful owl. “I couldn’t believe my eyes, it was so well camoulaged from afar, and I always believed the chance to see these owls in the wild would elude me. “I turned slowly and took several pictures. Only then did I notice a recent kill, a bunch of grey feathers, in its talons. I decided to walk a
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12 OCEAN GROVE VOICE Wednesday, 26 February, 2020
bit further on, where I saw a second owl, just as hidden in the foliage. I managed a few photos and then let them in peace. “To this day I don’t think I’ve had a more surprising, and rewarding birding experience”. his reminds me of seeing a boobook owl at Wilson’s Promontory in broad daylight, and I think I was the happiest person on the Earth at that moment. hanks so much Jen for your email and image of the powerful owl. Kevin also sent me a great photo of a white-browed scrubwren, which are lovely little
birds that are diicult to photograph as they move quickly through dense foliage. he local Bellarine Birdlife group had a fantastic outing to Freshwater Lake and Lake Victoria recently, and they managed to spot a whopping 75 species of birds, with the highlights being hooded plovers, red-capped plovers and a banded stilt. I’ll be away for the next few months, so it would be great to receive emails regarding any exciting bird observations around the Bellarine.
FREETIME
THE VOICE GUIDE TO ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
Dolly takes to the stage By Natalee Kerr he iconic songs of Dolly Parton are set to hit the stage when a new show heads to Geelong next month. Brisbane singer Brooke McMullen takes on Dolly in the tribute-style show that celebrates the decades-long achievements of the country music star. Ater the success of incorporating Dolly’s music in another show, the 25-year-old thought it was itting to dedicate an entire production to her. McMullen has spent hours studying Dolly and her costumes. “I’ve watched a lot of her concerts. I’ve got a few DVDs of her performances,” she said. “I just spent so much time listening to her music and learning about her.” With her makeup done, a large blonde wig, sequin dresses and padded bust, McMullen feels “fully glitz and glam” as Dolly. “I feel so conident when I’m in that get-up. It’s the most incredible feeling,” she said. But McMullen prefers to describe the show as a tribute rather than an impression. “I take parts of Dolly and make them my own – I feel like I relate to her quiet naturally, we share a lot of similarities,” she said. he costumes have their own personal touch to them too, McMullen explains. “I designed them all myself, took them from Dolly’s designs and made my own versions,” she said. Growing up, McMullen was surrounded by old-school music – with her mum and nan being big country music fans. “When I came across Dolly and her music I immediately fell in love,” she said. “She embodies everything that I would love to embody.”
John McCutcheon will make an appearance at the Potato Shed. (Irene Young)
Master musician set to entertain
Brooke McMullen will bring her Dolly Parton show to Geelong in March. (Supplied)
McMullen took up dance classes before she was three, and started singing at age eight. But it was a trip to New York at age 12 when she saw her irst Broadway show that cemented her love of performing. “I always knew I wanted to be on stage, but ater that I was blown away. I remember just thinking ‘this is what I want to do for the rest of my life’.” Channelling Dolly’s “variety” of music – from pop, to country, to rock and roll
– is something McMullen particularly enjoys. “Her vocal range is insane – she can do anything,” she said. “I’ve loved having that challenge, I think it has made me a much stronger singer.” Ater being on break since last November, McMullen is ready to take on the Dolly show for another year. he Songs of Dolly Parton comes to the Geelong Arts Centre on March 4.
Master instrumentalist and Grammy nominated ‘rustic renaissance-man’ John McCutcheon is coming to the Potato Shed. A superb multi-instrumentalist, proliic songwriter and engaging storyteller, McCutcheon is a ixture at major music festivals and concert halls across America, Europe and Australia. Hailed by Pete Seeger as “one of the best musicians in the USA” and Johnny Cash as “the most impressive instrumentalist I’ve ever heard”, McCutcheon will explore his back-catalogue of 40 recordings of original material, as well as tributes to some of the greats of traditional music. In 2019, McCutcheon released the album 100 Years of Pete Seeger, a tribute to his friend and mentor. he show is at 8pm on Saturday, February 29 ahead of his performance at the 44th Port Fairy Folk Festival. Book tickets at geelongaustralia.com. au/potatoshed.
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WHAT’S ON Music/live events Barwon Heads Hotel ■ Check Barwon Heads Hotel on Facebook for the latest. Piping Hot Chicken Shop ■ Check pipinghotchickenshop.com.au/ upcoming_gigs.html for upcoming gigs. Drysdale Senior Citizens Hall ■ Making waves music/poetry afternoon every fourth Sunday of the month, from 2-5.30pm. Ocean Grove Hotel ■ See oceangrovehotel.com.au/whats-on/ for upcoming events.
Markets and fairs Bellarine Community Farmers’ Market ■ Third Saturday of month, 9am-1pm, Ocean Grove Park. Barwon Heads Community Hall ■ Monthly market, last Saturday of the month, 9am-1pm.
Get active
hours 0431 789 048.
Ocean Grove Callisthenics, Ocean Grove Recreation Hall ■ Calisthenics classes incorporating dance, song, ballet and gymnastics with strength and creativity. 123 The Avenue, Ocean Grove Recreation Hall. Contact oceangrovecalisthenics@gmail.com Senior Citizens Hall Ocean Grove ■ Monday 9.15am Gentle low impact exercise to music for 55 to whatever. All itness levels and ages. Everyone welcome. Phone Marg on 0407 244 767. ■ Thursday 1pm, Craft Group. Uniting Church Hall Ocean Grove ■ Wednesdays 9am volleyball, 9.30am exercises to music for all ages. Phone Marg 5255 1335. Queenscliff RSL Hall ■ Mondays 1.30pm, exercises using chairs for all ages. Phone Marg 5255 1335. Leopold Hall, Bellarine Highway ■ Tuesdays 7.45pm-10pm, Scottish Country
Dance (formerly Ocean Grove). Phone 5251 3393. Barwon Heads Community Hall ■ Yoga and dance with Tara Lynch. Classes for all ages and abilities. Phone 0435 481 920. Ocean Grove Scout Hall, The Avenue Ocean Grove ■ Wednesday 7pm, 1st/2nd Ocean Grove Scout Group. Ocean Grove Walkers ■ Tuesdays 9.30am, meet at the shelter in Ocean Grove Park except when taking bus, train or ferry trips. For further information phone Helen 0411 534 899. Carpet Bowls ■ Indoor carpet bowls. Meet new friends and play a friendly game of bowls. All ages welcome. Parks Hall, Portarlington. Mondays from 12.30-3pm. Cost $4 includes afternoon tea. Contact Neighbourhood House, 5259 2290, after
Shannon Park, Shannon Avenue, Newtown. Pat 0414 959 248 or Bruce 0407 361 319 or bffa@hotmail.com
Ocean Grove Barwon Heads Lions Club, 7pm, Barwon Heads Senior Citizens Club, 5A Clifford Parade, Barwon Heads. New Lions welcome. Phone 0418 524 873.
the Memorial Hall, 123 The Avenue, Ocean Grove. Ian 5256 2242 or Peter 0400 093 831.
Last Tuesday of every month.
Country Women’s Association (CWA) Ocean Grove Nightlights Branch meeting 7.30pm Seniors Club 101 The Terrace Ocean Grove. Enquiries 0426 889 456.
Reading and writing Ocean Grove Library, corner Presidents Avenue and The Avenue. ■ Wednesdays 10.30am - Toddlertime. ■ Thursdays 11.30am, Babytime - Nursery Verses. ■ Mondays 10.30am - Preschool Storytime. ■ Third Tuesday of month 2.30-3.30pm, book chat for adults. Visit geelonglibraries. vic.gov.au Bellarine Training and Community Hub ■ Program with a range of courses, classes and fun activities. Phone 5255 4294.
Health and wellbeing Well Women’s Clinics at Ocean Grove, Portarlington and Point Lonsdale ■ Staffed by qualiied registered nurses: pap tests, breast health advice and checks, menopause and contraception advice. Appointments (free) phone 5258 0812.
CLUBS MEET Mondays Ocean Grove Bridge Club, 1pm, Marcus Hill Hall, Bellarine Highway end of Banks Road. Also Wednesdays and Fridays, 1pm. Marg 5256 2550. Bellarine Table Tennis Club, 7-9pm, (juniors/ seniors) at Memorial Hall, 123 The Avenue, Ocean Grove. Ian 5256 2242 or Peter 0400 093 831. Ocean Grove and District Men’s Shed Monday, Tuesday and Friday, 9am-3pm and Wednesday, 9am-noon, 17 Smithton Grove. Ted Price 5255 2595. Jujitsu, 6.30pm juniors, 7.30pm adults, Surfside Centre. Steve 0438 019 991. Soft tennis, 1.30-3.30pm at Memorial Hall. Social soft tennis gathering for women over 55. Jeanette 5256 1633. Springs TOWN Club Inc (Take Off Weight Naturally), Drysdale, every Monday, 9-11am at Drysdale Uniting Church Hall. Jan 0403 221 737 or 5255 3839.
First Monday of every month Bellarine Fly Fishing Association, 7.30pm, Geelong East Men’s Shed, Coppards Road, East Geelong at 7.30pm. Warwick Hansen 0419 563 904, Dave Davies 0419 998 781 or email bffa@hotmail.com. Fly tying third Thursday of each month at 7.30pm. Legacy Laurel Group of Ocean Grove and Barwon Heads, 1.30pm, at St Peter’s Church Hall, Draper Street. 5255 2820 or 5154 2873.
Third Monday of every month Ocean Grove RSL, 2pm, Ocean Grove Bowling Club. Ocean Grove Garden Club, 1.30pm, Uniting Church Hall, Eggleston Street. Dianne 0422 134 810. Ocean Grove-Surfside Mixed Probus Club, 10.30am, Ocean Grove Bowling Club. Visitors welcome, Graeme 0428 500 462, surfsideprobus.org.au Bellarine Fly Fishing Association, 7.30pm,
Fourth Monday of every month Combined Probus Club of Ocean Grove, 10am, Shell Road Sports Pavilion. Bryan Olsen 5255 1821.
Tuesdays Bellarine Peninsula Take off Weight Naturally (TOWN) Club meets Tuesday, 5.30pm, at Old Ocean Grove Football Clubrooms, Draper Street, Ocean Grove. Details: 0428 584 663 or 0421 789 296. Rotary Club of Ocean Grove, 6pm, Ocean Grove Bowling Club. Phone 0457 315 900. Barwon Heads Chorale, 7.30pm, All Saints Church, Hitchcock Avenue, Barwon Heads. Jo 5254 2670. Ocean Grove Chess Club, Tuesdays 7-9pm, $2.50 per session. Julie 5255 4294, Ralph 0431 458 100, or email reception@btach. com.au. Ocean Grove Bellarine Training and Community Hub, 1 John Dory Drive, Ocean Grove.
First Tuesday of every month Springdale Neighbourhood Centre gets together on the irst Tuesday of month, 10.15am. Jackie 0439 473 244. Bellarine Table Tennis Club, 10-noon (adults only) at the Memorial Hall, 123 The Avenue, Ocean Grove. Ian 5256 2242 or Peter 0400 093 831. Ocean Grove Senior Citizens Club, The Terrace, Tuesdays at 1pm. Also Thursdays and Fridays, 1.30pm. Dianne 5255 2996. Barwon Heads Chorale, 7.30pm, at the Anglican Church Barwon Heads. All abilities welcome. Jo 5254 2670.
Bellarine for Refugees, Meeting at the Community Garden, Barwon Heads on Tuesday 29 October 2.45pm. New members welcome. Any enquiries to Rosemary, bellarine4r@gmail.com .
Wednesdays Ocean Grove and District Men’s Shed, 9am-1pm, 17 Smithton Grove. Phone 0475 418 377. After hours Bruce Ward 5255 8827. Chord Club, meet to make music every Wednesday, 4pm, at 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove. Jujitsu, 6.30pm juniors, 7.30pm adults, Surfside Centre. Steve 0438 019 991.
First Wednesday of every month Bellarine Business Women, from 7pm, Suma Park Winery, Bellarine Highway. Contact info@bellarinebusinesswomen.com. au or 0412 199 467. U3A Art Group: Meets every Wednesday at 1.15pm at Drysdale Tennis Club. Contact: 5244 5114 or mail@u3ageelong.org.au
Fourth Wednesday of every month Ocean Grove Angling Club, 7.30pm, Minerva Close sporting oval clubhouse. Phone Gary 0408 812 438. Ocean Grove Evening VIEW Club, 6.30pm, Ocean Grove Bowling Club. June Hansen 0422 142 882 for information. Ocean Grove Stamp Club, 10am, Senior Citizens Hall, 101 The Terrace. Dianne 5255 1372.
Second Tuesday of month
Thursdays
National Seniors Bellarine Peninsula Branch meets at St James Church Hall, Collins Street, Drysdale, 2-4pm. Details: Jackie 0439 473 244.
Craft & Chat Group of Ocean Grove, every Thursday during school terms, 9.30-11.30am at United Church Hall, Egglestone St, Ocean Grove. Cost $2. Bellarine Table Tennis Club, 10am-noon at
First and third Tuesday of every month
First Thursday of every month
Last Thursday of every month Ocean Grove Coastcare, 7pm, Ocean Grove Bowling Club. Environmental activities to protect the coastline. Fran 0429 237 661. Ocean Grove Craft and Chat Circle, Thursdays (during school term), 9.30am to 11.30am, $2, The Uniting Church Hall, Eggleston Street. Country Women’s Association (CWA) Ocean Grove Nightlights Branch social craft evening 7.30pm, Seniors Club 101 The Terrace Ocean Grove. Enquiries phone or message 0426 889 456.
Fridays Ocean Grove Barwon Heads Breast Cancer Support Group, last Friday of each month at Ocean Grove Bowling Club at 12.30pm for lunch. Julie Rodger 0435 362 573. Barwon Branch of the Association of Independent Retirees, third Friday of month from 10am-noon at Waurn Ponds Hotel. Contact: 5258 3435 or 5278 9796. Queenscliff Croquet Club Introduction to Croquet sessions on Fridays,1.30-3pm. Ann 5278 3480 or Gail 5258 2270.
Saturdays Bellarine Table Tennis Club, 3-5pm, Memorial Hall, 123 The Avenue. Ian 5256 2242 or Peter 0400 093 831. Coasters Social group. Social events for people of working age. Details: 0411 952 598.
Sundays Bellarine Peninsula Church of Christ, meets each Sunday at 10.30am at 17 Tareeda Way, Ocean Grove.
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20 OCEAN GROVE VOICE Wednesday, 26 February, 2020
SPORT
Brave Grubbers fall short in decider Ocean Grove senior women cricketers can be proud of their achievements in their frst season of competitive club cricket, according to Grubber playing skipper Jacquie Johnston. he Grubbers lost a last over thriller in the Geelong Cricket Association Barwon region Women’s T20 fnal to Colac-based Irrewarra on February 16. he Redbacks won with three balls to spare in the fnal over of day. hey fnished at 3-90 from 19.3 overs in reply to Ocean Grove’s 6-89. “hey (our players) were incredible,” Johnston told the Voice. “From the frst season … to develop so well and have so much fun – that is probably the big thing. “We wanted to make sure everyone had a go and everyone felt involved.” Johnston said the team’s success was a remarkable achievement, given only three of the 11 Grubber cricketers named in the grand fnal squad had played competitively prior to
Jackie Montgomery top scored with an aggressive 19 for Ocean Grove. (Mark Heenan Media)
this season. Apart Johnston, opening batter Michelle Cameron and all-rounder Alana Kot, everyone was a frst-timer. “How good is it to play cricket where you are 10 minutes with your mates and you roll up to training and have a bit of fun,” Johnston said. Both Irrewarra and Ocean Grove fnished
on top of the ladder in the GCA T20 North and South conferences, respectively. Irrewarra had only sufered one defeat for the season, a loss to Manifold Heights in round 5. while the Grubbers had been undefeated, with eight consecutive victories across the season, including a semi-fnal win over St Joseph’s on February 9. Electing to bat frst ater winning the toss, Irrewarra restricted the Grubbers to 6-89 from 20 overs. Jackie Montgomery top scored with an aggressive 19, while openers Michelle Cameron (18) and Alana Kot (13) both got starts. Irrewarra pair Rachael Connelly, who took 2-12 from four overs, and Ange Balcombe snared 2-7 from three overs. Connelly was named player of the match, she fnished with a score of 40 retired, which helped her side win the match. Andrea Frankpitt was the leading wicket-taker with 2-19 for the Grubbers. Mark Heenan
Competitors jump out of the blocks at the Barwon Heads Triathlon. (Mark Heenan Media)
Hundreds take the plunge Hundreds of competitors took part in this year’s fth annual Barwon Heads Triathlon on February 16. Torquay’s Adam Conquest was the frst across the fnish line, thanks to a brilliant 14-kilometre bike leg. Conquest maintained strong speeds on the bike leg, which took in the hirteenth Beach surrounds. Competing in the 40-49 age category, Conquest won in a time of 41.07 and fnished ahead of last year’s winner Kirby Bourke (41.35) and Anthony Goss (42.20). Conquest and Bourke have won four of the past fve Barwon Heads Triathlon events. Competitors battled windy conditions in the Bellarine region’s only annual triathlon held alongside the picturesque Barwon Heads bridge surrounds. Barwon Heads Triathlon event director and race organiser Lincoln Beckworth said there were more than 850 competitors, including individual and team entrants. Beckworth confrmed 120 competitors from Ocean Grove and Barwon Heads competed, while for about 350 participants it was their frst ever triathlon. “here was a great atmosphere with huge crowds and everyone having fun,” Beckworth told the Voice. “I was rapt to see so many people there competing and having fun and see such great support from the local community.” Mark Heenan
Local star in Classic win Grubber A1 bowler Lindon Giufrrida (right) feels the pain of a dropped catch with Queenscliff batsman Toby Smith given a life. (Mark Heenan Media)
Season in the balance By Mar Heenan Ocean Grove’s A1 season hangs in the balance ater a narrow 15-run loss to Queensclif in their Round 13 two-day clash at Queensclif Recreation Reserve on February 22. he Grubbers (39 points) dropped to fth and now face a must win two-day game against Barrabool this Saturday, while they require either Queensclif (45 points) and Barwon Heads (39 points) in third and fourth to lose to make fnals. Ocean Grove captain-coach Paul Jubber said there was a sense of frustration ater their fourth consecutive defeat. “Genuine disappointment, a little bit of anger as well, frustrated and angry at the moment, desperate to win and we are just not getting there,” Jubber told the Voice.
Queensclif opener Tim Frankenburg was a standout on day one with 106 in his side’s total of 271 from 73.4 overs as Paul Jubber snared 4/36 from 13.4 overs. Ocean Grove was all out for 256 from 70 overs on Saturday, at one stage the visitors were 8/199. Isaac Saunders (52) hit a sparkling half-century, all-rounder Matt Caulfeld top scored with 61, while Lindon Giufrrida (26), Nathan Taylor (31) and Dan Roddis (20 not out) all contributed. Taylor and Roddis put on a 51-run stand for the fnal wicket. Queensclif’s Michael Philp (3/34) and Ned Rogerson (3/72) combined for six wickets. OCEAN Grove B1 (6/111 declared) claimed frst innings victory over Queensclif (110 and 4/61), Grubber Tom Kent (3/35) (2/16) claimed
fve wickets, while Troy Wiseman (7/17) (2/35) took nine wickets in his side’s C1 win over Collendina. Meanwhile, Collendina A1 defeated Portarlington in their revised one-day clash at Portarlington on Saturday. he six-wicket win helped seventh-placed Collendina (18 points) avoid relegation. Portarlington (9 points) sit on the bottom in eighth spot ater 13 rounds. Collendina restricted Portarlington to 9/133 from 40 overs. Charlie Lamb took 3/17 from eight overs, while Jye Hearps snared 3/25 from eight overs. In reply, Collendina captain Nathan Walter struck an impressive 58 and shared in an 89-run stand with Ben Ricardo (59 not out). he Cobras fnished at 4/137 from 29.4 overs and won with more than 10 overs to spare.
Ocean Grove lawn bowler Heath McLaren teamed up with Michael Harrison, Mark Featherston and Anthony Mackay to take out the 2020 RT Edgar Ocean Grove Men’s Classic Fours. Harrison and Featherston both hail from Apollo Bay, while McKay is from Colac. Around 34 teams took to the greens in what was an interesting start to the $18,000 event. he Ocean Grove representative team was spearheaded by Mick West along with Ken homas, Craig Rippon and Brad Pavey which went undefeated on day one. Seven games of 12 ends across two days and the feld was hot with several interstate visitors and Victorian superstars. McLaren and his fellow teammates stood tall in the fnish as the only undefeated side in this year’s event, taking out the $6000 prize purse. Liam Turner (Bundoora), Cooper Wescombe (Glenroy), Josh Walker-Davis (Essendon) and Jarryd Davies (Glenroy) fnished on six wins and runners up, whilst the all-Ocean Grove side topped of their great tournament in third place. Matt Flapper, Ocean Grove Bowls Club 23 OCEAN GROVE VOICE Wednesday, 26 February, 2020