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SINCE moving to Ocean Grove more than two decades ago, I have observed that our peninsula townships represent ‘the best holiday place to live.’
And for those not fortunate to call the beautiful Bellarine home, it’s also an incredible place to visit at any time of the year.
Whether it’s the surf beaches and family-friendly Barwon River on the south side, or the tranquil Corio Bay to the north offering spectacular views of Melbourne and the You Yangs – or indeed anywhere in between – there is something for everyone.
For food and drink lovers, the Bellarine is home to some of Australia’s best wineries, along with top restaurants and stylish modern cafes. Every seaside town has its own distinct character, but good coffee or a tasty meal is a consistent theme. And given the Bellarine’s strong agricultural diversity, you’ll also discover a wide variety of local producers.
If you like an active holiday, there is a smorgasbord to choose from – be it surfing or ocean swimming, paddling, fishing, walking and running, cycling, or horseback riding.
The coastal trails are magnificent and the peninsula’s interior has a wonderful rural feel. Both are great to explore.
Like everywhere, the Bellarine was hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic, but our towns have sprung back to life and local businesses are ready to welcome you warmly.
Make the Bellarine your next getaway destination and discover this special place for yourself. There is a risk you may never want to leave!
IMAGINE cruising along the Great Ocean Road, wind in your hair, the ocean glinting in the sun, driving in a VW Kombi from the ‘70s. If ever a vehicle embodied the magical ‘hippie’ era, it’s a Kombi – and there’s currently six you can drive from Hire A Kombi that are guaranteed to evoke a fab trip back in time.
Harriet is just one of the Kombis that make up a fleet of such restored treasures available from Hire A Kombi, a family-run business operating out of Marcus Hill (eight kilometres from Ocean Grove). There are also VW beetles to hire, one of which has the moniker of Greta. Yes, they truly have their own characters.
Regional Victoria has some terrific camping spots, and Hire A Kombi makes camping incredibly easy with four kombi campers available – just pop the top and you’re done. Alyce, who owns the business with husband George, explains how:
“Choose your perfect camping spot for the night, settle in for a cracking sunset and switch off from the everyday,” she says. “We love to create unique experiences, so offer a range of fun packages to suit, including a Twilight Glamping option with bell tents.”
Greta, the pocket-rocket of the fleet, is great for a day trip around the beautiful Bellarine region, as is Harriet the Kombi who can transport a gang of eight to numerous surrounding attractions.
Alyce and George have their small farm as the vehicle collection point – and that’s an experience that kids will love right from the get-go.
Alyce says that they have heaps of fun, playing with her ‘Kombi kids’, Mae and Kim.
“Our customers arrive to chickens, a kids’ playground, plus our dog, so while parents pack their Kombi, a relaxed tone is already set for the experience ahead.”
The down-to-earth friendly couple also offers some fab packages for other couples looking for a bit of romance.
“Our 1965 beetle Greta is part of our beautiful ‘Bellarine Peninsula by Sunset
with Sea All Dolphin Swims’ package, which includes accommodation and a massage.
“As well, we offer Winery Wednesdays where we drive you – and seven of your mates – to some of the gorgeous wineries in the area.
“And our Kombis are perfect for wedding arrivals, adding immense character and fun to your big day.”
Hire A Kombi, Marcus Hill. Email hireakombi@gmail.com or visit or www.hireakombi.com
GEELONG and the Bellarine Peninsula is a popular place all year round, but really thrives during summer.
Tourism Greater Geelong & The Bellarine has some tips on how and where to enjoy the summer fun. Here’s five things to do when the heat is on.
Make a splash! We’ve got saltwater therapy in almost every direction –Eastern Beach in Geelong is a timeless favourite on hot summer nights. Head to the north side of the Bellarine for calm, clear waters for paddling, fishing or snorkelling. North side, we’re thinking Portarlington, St Leonards and Indented Head.
To the south, head to Point Lonsdale, Ocean Grove and Barwon Heads –waves are perfect for boarding, be it surfing or paddle boarding or, when the tide is out, rock pool rambles and beach cricket.
Our vineyards and cellar doors are well known but we’re also making great beer, cider and gin now too. We’ve got some classic five-star wineries such as Scotchmans Hill, Clyde Park, Oakdene, Lethbridge and Provenance Wines. Beer, cider and gin anyone? We’ve got the east coast home of Little Creatures Brewery in Geelong and our very own naturally crafted cider (Flying Brick) and gin (Teddy and The Fox and Rosey and the Rabbits) from The Whiskery, to whet your whistle.
Balance your fluid intake with local food produce sourced via The Bellarine and Moorabool Valley Taste Trails and their farm gates and eateries.
Summer and events go together like jam and cream – they were made for each other.
The program this year in Geelong and the Bellarine will take you from international sport and magic in the water, such as the ISPA Handa Vic Open Golf Championships, Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race, Festival of Sails and world-class yachting championships.
There’s music in every part of the region, some in a summer tent (Spiegeltent), others with 18,000 people at A Day on the Green (Cold Chisel) and then some in a beer garden at the Great Australian Beer Festival.
Get your runners or hiking boots on and head to the You Yangs for an allnatural workout.
Hike to the top for 360 degree views, enjoy a picnic or barbecue in the park or check out the mountain-bike trails.
You can take your dog in too. Fun in the fresh air for the whole family, even the furry ones.
We mean literally.
Alfresco dining in Geelong is great for people watching and views on warm nights.
Think uber cool Little Malop Street in Geelong or dining on the waterfront with magnificent views of the bay.
On The Bellarine, water views and sea breezes are an even better entree than garlic bread.
For a view, you can’t go past, Terindah Estate, Jack Rabbit Vineyard, Basils Farm, 360Q or The Dunes or with a side of vintage cars or artwork at McGlashans and Oakdene respectively.
Need more inspiration? Head to visitgeelongbellarine.com.au.
MANY people choose to spend their entire summer holidays on the Bellarine Peninsula.
But this place is also terrific for short getaways.
Not long enough!
But if you insist, the Bellarine Peninsula is an easy day trip from Melbourne (or Ballarat), but leave home early because there is a heap to pack in.
Depending on where you’re coming from, it’s roughly an hour’s drive from the CBD to Geelong (check the traffic conditions).
From there, it’s about 30 minutes to most places on the peninsula, including the many cellar doors that await.
You would also have time to enjoy a leisurely lunch and walk it off with a beach stroll or take in some of the Bellarine Rail Trail or Ocean Grove Nature Reserve.
Perhaps an educational tour (Fort Queenscliff, Portarlington Mill) in the afternoon before heading back home or staying for dinner.
Get in the car as early as you can on Friday afternoon and head straight to Ocean Grove.
With a good run on the roads, it should take about an hour and a half. Depending on what time of year it is, you should have enough time to wander on the beach. Main beach, Collendina or Raafs are your options and all three are good options.
After that, take your pick for dinner and drinks on The Terrace or one of the nearby restaurants or wineries before settling in for the night in a tent, cabin, motel or holiday house.
The following morning head to the revitalised town of Portarlington to check out the old mill, but stop at Drysdale first for a coffee and breakfast. The 10km drive between Portarlington and St Leonards is as scenic as it gets with gorgeous bay views.
If it’s nice out, stop in at the St Leonards Hotel for lunch and sit in the beer garden while enjoying the sun.
In the afternoon, head to some of the Bellarine’s best wineries.
If you’re not totally worn out, drive to Queenscliff to see the fort and then across to Point Lonsdale for the beach and the lighthouse.
Tonight you can order in or head out again. It’s never more than 20 minutes from Ocean Grove to anywhere on the peninsula.
The next day, check out more of the wineries before heading to Barwon Heads for coffee and a late lunch and a walk along 13th Beach. If you have kids and the wineries aren’t an option, Ocean Grove Nature Reserve is a great place to wander and maybe spy an echidna or wallaby. Minigolf, Adventure Park and Jirrahlinga Koala & Wildlife Sanctuary are terrific for the littlies.
Apart from all of the above, and taking longer to explore each place, other options for a slightly longer stay are a night out on the Blues Train or a Sunday train ride with the kids on one of Bellarine Railway’s regular Day Out With Thomas.
If it’s warm outside, Adventure Park will entertain you and/or the kids for hours. Splash about in this acclaimed water theme park. Saturday mornings are great for markets, whether it’s a farmer’s or a craft market. Pretty much every town on the Bellarine has one at some stage.
Curlewis, Barwon Heads and Thirteenth Beach golf clubs are world-class and if you bring your sticks, it’s well worth getting out if you’re into golf.
Dolphin and seal watching on a boat tour from Queenscliff will thrill the entire family, while there are heaps of fishing charters that will take you out in search of your bag limit. Diving is popular here. There are several sites and a purpose-built wreck off Ocean Grove.
You can always time your visit around one of the many world-class festivals, but book accommodation and tickets (especially to the Queenscliff Music Festival) very early.
Something as simple as fish and chips on the beach anywhere on the peninsula is inexpensive, but fun.
DEB ROBINSON, managing director of Geelong Gaol Museum, announces its newest exhibition, “Saga Behind the Armour”, bringing to life the story of Ned Kelly and his gang through the eyes of Geelong people involved in the story.
“Come and view his death mask and experience the infamous bushranger’s replica armour as you take in the stories of those who lived it,” Deb says.
“Either love him or hate him, one cannot deny that Ned Kelly is one of the most recognisable figures in Australian history, even 140 years after his death in 1880.”
For 170 years, the three-storey bluestone Geelong Gaol has looked over the town from behind its imposing gates. For 138 years, it was a place of incarceration for men, women and children from all walks of life, serving sentences imposed by the law and courts of Geelong. Today, the Geelong Goal Museum is open to the public where the brutal conditions that prisoners endured can be seen - from tiny cells to solitary confinement to the gallows. There are displays on the history of colonial Victorian gaols, prisoner stories and memorabilia of days past.
Exhibitions include Rogues & Vagabonds, highlighting the stories of five prisoners; Hoodwinkers and Hooligan, a display of death masks and phrenology; Last Man Standing, displaying a series of paintings from one of the last six prisoners at Geelong; and the current Saga Behind the Armour.
Once darkness falls, people can join Twisted History for nightly ghost tours, led by a character from the past who once lived or worked here. Explore the haunted halls and cells by lantern light, hearing the stories of those who once lived behind these walls - many of whom never left …
“Or perhaps,” suggests Deb, “you’re searching for the age-old answer to whether ghosts really do exist?
“Join our investigators as we explore the hot-spots using a range of paranormal equipment, trigger devices and experiments to see if you can find the evidence to prove that the paranormal truly does exist.”
Geelong Gaol Museum opens 1-4pm weekends, school and public holidays
Geelong Gaol Ghost Tours available every night.
Investigations are on Friday and Saturday nights (other times by appointment). Inquiries: 1300 865 800 or visit www.geelonggaol.com.au; www.facebook.com/geelonggaolmuseum/; and www.twistedhistory.net.au
Portarlington Beach Motel has 17 modern units suitable for a range of accommodation options. You’ll get all the benefits of larger rooms with the personalised service of a family business. Enjoy a short walk into the town centre or stroll along the Esplanade with stunning views of Port Phillip Bay across to Melbourne.
Rated 9/10 by Booking.com based on customer reviews, we have Spa suites, Queen Rooms, Twin Share Rooms and spacious Family Suites with a Queen bed in the main area and separate bedroom with bunk beds.
Enjoy our poolside BBQ area or perhaps book into a Wine or Foodies Tour leaving from the motel. We look forward to hosting you soon.
THE Bellarine Peninsula is famous for its coolclimate wines and there is no shortage of venues to sample all the varietals. If wine is not your go, there’s breweries and a gin and whiskey distillery. Most of the following places serve amazing food and entertainment, too.
CURLEWIS WINERY
Specialising in Burgundian-style pinot noirs and chardonnays and Rhone-style shiraz. (curlewiswinery.com.au)
SCOTCHMANS HILL
A producer of premium cool maritime climate wines, Scotchmans Hill has been a leading local winery for more than 30 years. (scotchmans.com. au)
FLYING BRICK
Sit outside and order a tasting paddle of ciders. Great food, too. (flyingbrickciderco.com.au)
MCGLASHAN WALLINGTON ESTATE
Boutique winery specialising in chardonnay, shiraz, pinot noir and pinot grigio. You can stay the night overlooking the vineyards. (mcglashans. com.au)
OAKDENE
Boutique, family-owned vineyard featuring a cellar door, restaurant, cafe, accommodation and gardens. (oakdene.com.au)
YES SAID THE SEAL
Refined maritime-climate wines. Award-winning winemaker Darren Burke is in his element. (yessaidtheseal.com.au)
BELLARINE ESTATE
Produces a total of 14 wines each year – eight of these are under the Bellarine Estate label using fruit exclusively from Bellarine Estate’s vines. (www.bellarineestate.com.au)
JACK RABBIT
Enjoy a diverse staple of sophisticated cool-
climate wines with unrivalled views across the bay to Geelong, the You Yangs and Melbourne. (jackrabbitvineyard.com.au)
TERINDAH ESTATE
Sweeping bay views, indoor and outdoor dining and ‘glamping’. (www.terindahestate.com)
BAIE WINES
Small batch winery on the Bellarine Peninsula that produces award-winning wines harvested from its Curlewis vineyard. (baiewines.com.au)
BASIL’S FARM
Shiraz, chardonnay and pinot noir, as well as olive oil and a great cafe. (basilsfarm.com.au)
LEURA PARK ESTATE
The 150 acres of vineyards are predominantly hand-picked to produce wines that are 100 per cent estate grown. (leuraparkestate.com.au)
BENNETT’S ON BELLARINE
The 100-year-old milking shed is the rustic foundation of the cellar door set next to the vineyard which was planted in 1995. (bennettsonbellarine.com)
QUEENSCLIFF’S BREWHOUSE
Mmmmmm...beer. More than 400 beers to choose from, but don’t leave without trying the Queenscliff craft beer in the on-site microbrewery. (queenscliffbrewhouse.com.au)
ONEDAY ESTATE
A range of delightful wines for all tastes, including sparkling cuvee, sparkling riesling, dry and offdry riesling, dry and off-dry rose, pinot noir and shiraz. (onedayestate.com.au)
WAYAWU ESTATE
Enjoy locally-grown wines with a picnic basket or a grazing platter. (wayawuestate.com.au)
KISAAN ESTATE
Family-run vineyard nestled behind the sand dunes at 13th Beach. (kisaanestate.com.au)
MARCUS HILL VINEYARD
Making wine in a manner which is sympathetic to the site and area - produces elegant, delicate and feminine wines. (marcushillvineyard.com.au)
BELLARINE DISTILLERY
Opened in 2015 this whiskery also produces gin and has a popular cafe. (bellarinedistillery.com. au)
LETHBRIDGE
Discover the recently opened Bellarine Cellar Door of Lethbridge Wines, located at the picturesque Hat Rock Vineyard. (lethbridgewines. com)
BANKS ROAD
Enjoy all the current release Banks Road vintages in the relaxed setting of the Banks Road Cellar Door & Cafe. (banksroad.com.au)
BREWICOLO
Family-operated. Some seriously good thirstquenching brews await at this Ocean Grove brewery (brewicolo.com)
SUSAN MORGAN, owner of Go Vita Health Foods in Ocean Grove, says she’s been involved in quite a few small businesses, but this one is “by far the most rewarding”.
This translates to a passion for all-things health which spills over into her high customer service standards, a genuine enjoyment in helping and providing products customers are looking for.
The shelves are stacked with fantastic health-giving products, and Susan says wonderful new and interesting items are arriving all the time. As well, a naturopath is on board every day to offer excellent advice.
It’s a busy place, with people dropping in for expert advice, and exploring the many items in stock. And, because the Go Vita crew is so passionate about health and wellbeing, the shop’s customers get a warm welcome and as much help as they need.
HEALTH FOODS
■ Flours and grains
■ Nuts and seeds
■ Breads and cereals
■ Herbal teas, drinks and protein powders
■ Natural honey and snacks
■ Refrigerated and frozen products
■ Gluten-free, allergy-friendly, keto and vegan foods
The store also stocks natural and organic skincare and make-up, hair care, and cleaning and eco-friendly products, along with a wide range of quality supplements – including a practitioner-only selection.
Susan says that if a customer can’t find the item they’re after in stock, she will always try to source it – all part of their commitment to great service.
“We really listen to our customers, and will always go out of our way when needed,” says Susan. “Honest health advice is another huge focus for us.
“In fact, there have been times when we actually talked a customer out of
buying a particular product as we truly believed it wasn’t the best product for them. This has helped us build a rapport with customers who get to know we’re looking out for their best.”
Go Vita offers a free “Good Health Members Club” for anyone to join. This entitles customers to an everyday discounted price on many supplements, as well as up to 20 per cent off storewide on “Super Days” – look out for details. Members’ monthly Go Magazine is out now, with great specials, plus interesting reads – grab a copy in-store.
Go Vita Ocean Grove Health Foods, 5 Park Lane, Ocean Grove. Opens 9am5.30pm Monday-Friday; 9am-4pm Saturday; and 10am-2pm Sunday (in summer). Inquiries: 5255 4650
THE Bellarine Peninsula is home to a variety of surf breaks suitable for all standards, from beginners through to professionals.
As long as the wind’s anywhere from the north-east to north-west, ideal conditions can be found anywhere along the ocean-facing side of the peninsula.
BLACK ROCK
The action begins at the very western extremity of the peninsula, where Black Rock provides an excellent right-hand point break in the right conditions. Access is via the first small parking areas on either side of 13th Beach Road, about 400 metres east of the wind turbine at the road’s western end. Black Rock works best on lower tides and north to north-west winds. Reforms on the beach at the inside of the point offer excellent opportunities for beginners.
13TH BEACH
The long, sandy beach running east from Black Rock toward Barwon Heads offers numerous opportunities to catch a wave.
North and north-east winds suit 13th, with the best waves usually found in the second half of the beach toward Barwon Heads.
The beach’s south-west-facing orientation faces the predominant swell direction in Victoria, so 13th’s rarely flat. On the other hand, it doesn’t handle a lot of size, either, so it’s usually best in swells up to 1.5m.
Access is via several car parks along the beach.
THE BEACON
Between the eastern end of 13th Beach and Barwon Heads Bluff is The Beacon, which can offer world-class waves on its day.
Charelmont Reef offshore tends to break up the swell as it marches in toward The Beacon, creating a variety of sometimes-shifty peaks that create opportunities to catch waves even on the busiest days.
Breaking on a variety of sand and rock, and best at low tide, The Beacon can produce outstanding barrelling waves. It’s a favourite haunt of visiting professionals and has hosted rounds of the Rip Curl Pro when conditions have been unsuitable at the event’s traditional Bells Beach site.
Left and right-breaking waves are available along the length of The Beacon, with ample parking available.
OCEAN GROVE
This long, sweeping beach offers numerous opportunities for beginners and intermediate surfers to find a wave away from the crowd.
Best wind directions range from the north-west to north-east, with low tides generally best.
At the western end, toward the mouth of the Barwon River, RAAFS works well
on a moderate swell and can even handle winds a little more from the west. Numerous left and right breaks are dotted along with beach, with the swell generally larger at the eastern end.
Plenty of parking is available, although it’s best to be early on sunny days when locals and visitors flock to this beach.
The power turns on again at Point Lonsdale, where experienced surfers can find some challenging waves.
North and north-east winds are best, along with a high tide.
The beach area near the lighthouse offers left and right-breaking waves, often with barrelling conditions.
Just to the west, a right-hand reef break also presents hollow conditions for surfers of a high standard.
Access is to park in the vicinity of the surf lifesaving club, then take the short walk over the dunes.
The waves at the front beach are actually inside Port Phillip Bay after travelling through The Rip.
A large swell is generally required to present worthwhile waves, with this area the only place on the peninsula still working well in winds from the west and even south-west.
The waves are mostly right-handers and weak, so they’re best-suited to longboards.
Access is simple: Pull up in the main shopping area and walk across the foreshore to the water.
LOCALLY owned and managed by proud Ocean Grovers Bernadette and Ken Giblin, Eco Laundry Room Marketplace Ocean Grove is a fresh, modern self-service laundry to suit all needs.
With a futuristic feel and state-of-the-art TESLA washers and dryers, there’s an abundance of washing cycles to choose from, including Doona Wash and a unique wetsuit wash – which is also a great option to keep yoga mats in top shape.
Bernadette and Ken have lived in Ocean Grove for more than 22 years and have raised four children in the community. They’re passionate about what they do and value the personal touch, a combination that Bernadette says creates a service standing out from the rest.
“We clean our store daily and pride ourselves on our high quality clean and maintaining the standard of cleanliness each day,” she says.
“We enjoy engaging with our customers, offering assistance and listening to their stories – usually sharing a laugh or two as well!”
Eco Laundry Room is located right near the ocean, so it’s ideal for a post-swim or surf wash and dry within an hour so you can then get back to enjoying the rest of your day.
Bernadette encourages customers to support local by popping into a nearby cafe, retail store or supermarket while your laundry needs are being attended to.
Personalised service is only a phone call away, with anyone needing individual assistance when using the facilities or with enquiries during unmanned hours able to reach Bernadette and Ken via a free call number.
Bernadette says another specialised feature at Eco Laundry Room is the free pre-wash drum clean on all of the washers.
“This provides our customers that extra peace of mind as it promotes good hygiene, an important factor to keep everyone safe during these challenging times.”
Flexible payment options are available, including Ezy Pay with card, cash, coin or loyalty card.
Eco Laundry Room also has CCTV video surveillance to ensure customers feel safe and secure on each visit.
Bernadette and Ken love the Ocean Grove community and want to thank all of their loyal customers for the ongoing support they’ve shown this year. “Please pop in and say hello when you see us cleaning!”
Eco Laundry Room, Marketplace Shopping Centre, Kingston Downs Drive, Ocean Grove. Opens 6am-midnight, 24/7 by appointment. Inquiries: 1300 326 880 or visit www.ecolaundryroom.com.au
WHETHER the aim is to run a marathon, get stronger, or elevate fitness, SCY247 Health & Fitness Hub has a program to help make that happen, according to owner Bridgete Schumann, who also has a psychology degree. Bridgey, as she’s known, discovered her ‘calling’ during a time helping her dad to prepare for his first body-building comp.
“I thoroughly enjoyed having a hands-on role and helping him become the best version of himself, both physically and mentally. So I became a personal trainer.”
Bridgey went on to design her SCY247 classes around strength, cardio, endurance and active recovery.
GROUP SESSIONS
These are circuit-based, with the style of training valuable for, and tailored to, all ages and abilities
“We like to think our form of training is periodised HIIT training. We are huge advocates for not continuously flogging yourself as that often leads to injuries,” Bridgey explains. “Our programming has high and low intensities throughout the week. We also now include some of the HIIT-style workouts, as well as offering powerlifting technique training for those wanting more of a challenge.”
“We think the way we approach group training is special. Each person who chooses us as their gym receives a 1:1 session to make sure they feel safe, comfortable and sure of movement patterns during classes. We’re the only gym of its kind set up with 24/7 access. One-on-one personal training is also available.”
MUM AND BUB-FRIENDLY
“For pre- and post-natal women, our classes prepare the body for pregnancy, as well as speed up recovery of the abdominal muscles. Mums can bring their bubs along in prams and do their workout with bub on the sidelines.”
HEALTH HUB
There are two rooms to consult Dr Elle Fleming from The OG Chiro clinic, as well as Brad Bullock, massage therapist from In-Motion Health & Coaching.
Classes provide a full body workout.
“We also have an amazing group of partners and health practitioners from around the Bellarine where members are able to visit and receive discounts.”
To enable prospective gym members the best chance to experience what the gym offers, there’s unlimited access to classes and gym for 14 days at just $35. NOTE: Tourists/visitors are offered flexible memberships or casual passes.
SCY247 Health & Fitness Hub, 22A Sinclair Street, Ocean Grove. Inquiries: 0457 404 335 or www.scy247.com.au
STAY safe while enjoying the best the Bellarine has to offer this summer with a dip at one of the peninsula’s several patrolled beaches.
Ocean Grove Beach is moderately safe, particularly during summer, when extensive bars dominate.
The popular beach is best at high tide but watch out for rips - particularly at low tide.
Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club (SLSC) patrols the beach and performs an average of eight rescues a year.
Thirteenth Beach, at Barwon Heads, provides a haven for swimmers who want a patrolled beach away from the crowds.
Barwon Heads/13th Beach SLSC patrols the beach and rescues an average of five people a year.
Rips are a common feature of the beach, with safest bathing on the bars in the area which the club patrols.
Point Lonsdale SLSC patrols Santa Casa Beach in Queencliff from Boxing Day to Australia Day.
The ‘bay beach’ is one of the safest on the peninsula and perfect for families. The club also patrols Point Lonsdale Back (Surf) Beach from now until Easter, but recommends it only for surfers and experienced swimmers.
The hazardous beach has strong permanent rips and reefs, and the club has rescued up to 30 people a year at the beach.
The mouth of the Barwon River is a popular spot for caravan park swimmers and those looking for calmer waters.
But varying water depth, shifting banks and strong tidal currents can pose a threat.
JEREMY and his crew at Cheeky Cow have been busy behind the scenes, changing things up to counteract the challenges of COVID-19, including new air-conditioning for better indoor air circulation, and increased outdoor seating for enhanced dining in the fresh ocean breezes.
“We’re also introducing a new menu ordering system,” Jeremy says. “This enables contactless payment and prompt ordering, as well as reduces peaktime bottlenecks. We’re really chuffed with this because it helps both our customers and the team.
“Like everyone, we’re ready to put this year behind us. We’re now looking forward to a better 2021 and celebrating everyone’s return to Cheeky Cow –and the beach.”
Now that indoor dining is back, bookings are recommended to avoid disappointment, plus customers must sign in as per government COVID-19 guidelines.
Brekkie is big at Cheeky Cow, whether to ‘eat out’, take home for a fantastic weekend family brunch, or grab on the way to work.
All the faves are on board, such as smashed avo, banana bread, toasties, eggs done all ways, and muesli and pancake stacks – as well as BLTs, BLATs and BLEATs. The breakfast and ‘recovery’ rolls are smashing, with homemade tomato relish adding a special touch.
Moving on to lunchtime and the New Yorker cheese burger (with aged beef) is a cracker, while a vegie burger and chicken schnitzel wrap/roll are other options.
Chips? Of course – and they’re beer-battered, while potato wedges are spiced and served with sour cream. Fish comes served with the chips, as do the chicken nuggets.
Sachin, the recently appointed manager, is known for his awesome coffee brews, which pair beautifully with the cakes and slices. Look out for Sachin’s new iced drinks – perfect as a summer pick-me-up or to take on a stroll along the nearby beach.
Cheeky Cow is dog-friendly, with plenty of water bowls outside. And in
keeping with the cafe’s other sustainable practices, takeaway containers are biodegradable and there’s 50 cents off with BYO cups.
Cheeky Cow, 131 Ocean Throughway, Ocean Grove. Opens 8am-3pm daily. Phone: 5255 1677, text 0405 020 040 or visit www.cheekycow.com. au Facebook: @ TheCheekyCow Instagram: cheekycow
FISHIN’ TIPS
The Bellarine Peninsula is rich with fishing opportunities for anglers, ranging from offshore experts to families just happy to wet a line. Following are Go Bellarine’s tips for the catch of a lifetime without needing a boat.
BARWON RIVER ESTUARY
Best fished around high tide, which is usually around two hours after the advertised daily high-tide time for Port Phillip Heads. Land-based anglers can expect whiting, trevally, mullet, bream and salmon, with the elusive mulloway also present. Both sides of the river fish well, with numerous jetties and small landings available on the Barwon Heads side. Pippies, prawns and squid are the preferred baits, although fresh worms and Bass yabbies work best.
OCEAN GROVE BEACH
The last third of the beach toward the mouth of the Barwon River fishes well for surf anglers on low tides, especially around the change of light. Snapper, mulloway and gummy sharks are all on the target list, with squid the preferred bait for its ability to stay on the hook during long casts.
13TH BEACH
Another surf angling location, although anglers should beware of rough surf and dangerous currents. Salmon are the main target, although gummy sharks can be taken after dark. Best fished on high tide where gutters and holes are visible, although low tide can also sometimes offer access to deeper water. Squid is the best bait for the long casts required, although anglers targeting salmon often prefer metal lures around 25g.
Strong tidal flows mean the harbour is best fished around high tide, which is two to three hours after the advertised daily high tide for Port Phillip Heads. Anglers enjoy fishing from the jetties for trevally and snapper, although salmon, mullet and squid are frequently present, too.
ST
Renowned locations for large snapper during rough weather and sometimes after dark. Whiting, squid, mullet and salmon are also frequently caught. Baits such as pippies, pilchards and squid are the most popular. Artificial and baited jigs work well on squid when fished under the lights and night.
CLIFTON
A great option when south-westerlies blow since the wind is at the angler’s back. Flathead, snapper, whiting, garfish, mullet and squid are regularly caught from the jetty. After dark also presents opportunities to catch gummy sharks. The same baits as used at the nearby piers work well, although pieces of whitebait fished on a small hook about a metre under a float amid a berley trail works well on the garfish.
BEST to slip on your most comfy shoes when you visit any of the three Amazing Mill Markets in Geelong, Ballarat and Daylesford because they’re each browsing and poking-about shopping experiences spread out in huge venues - ripe for Eureka moments.
Fab places to find Christmas gifts, the market-style venues offer an eclectic mix of goodies, showcased by more than 500 stallholders in all. Gift vouchers ($20 and $50) are available.
Goods range in age from the 1850s to the present day. You might find a beautiful item of vintage clothing, an old vinyl record you’ve hankered to add to your collection, or a gorgeous piece of antique jewellery. It’s all about discovery.
There’s a fantastic range of home decor, furniture, fine china and glassware, books, antiques, memorabilia, collectibles, and Australian pottery, as well as industrial items, and new clothing and products.
A gang of friends could hire a mini-bus and make a day of it visiting all three locations – there’s plenty of parking for buses and cars.
Mill Market also offers function props, with life-size animals, plants and props for special events – items are available to purchase or hire. And each has a cafe, perfect for a pick-me-up when a break is needed, or a great way to finish or start the day’s shopping.
There’s The Coffee Stop in Newcomb (Geelong), open every day and offering an array of delicious food and great coffee.
Roman Around Cafe in Ballarat, under new management since last month, is in the process of changing the menu, with the schnitzel rolls and Italian donuts highly recommended. The huge parking area makes it great for car clubs and bus arrivals.
In Daylesford, it’s The Mill Markets Cafe, run by local foodie, Dani, who brings a range of freshly made food to her menu. There’s a tasty selection of cakes, while the all-day brekkie is especially recommended. It’s a popular venue for large groups to meet up.
Make shopping an experience at Mill Markets.
Mill Markets Geelong, 114 Bellarine Highway, Newcomb; Mill Markets Ballarat, 9367 Western Highway, Warrenheip; and Mill Markets Daylesford, 105 Central Springs Road, Daylesford. Open daily (except for Christmas Day). Details: www.millmarkets.com.au
FOR the past 16 years, Ocean Grove’s Direct Chemist Outlet has been providing competitively priced products and general health advice to locals, as well as the many holidaymakers who visit the beautiful town. Now, owner/manager Matt Pittwood wants to give a big shout out to his much-valued staff, who work with the motto of “Live healthier! Live longer!”
“I thank them for all their hard work and willingness to help our customers,” Matt begins. “It’s particularly amazing to see how many people they know, their connection with the local area.
“There’s Carole, our retail manager who’s been here from the beginning and knows the pharmacy inside out. We have Shannon and Maree who specialise in cosmetics, fragrance and skin care; and Kerri and Bernie, our specialists in vitamins and general health.
“Then there’s Di, Jen, Marg, Haylee and Liana who cover all pharmacy medicines and products; and Tania, Stacey, Eliza and Steph who are involved in running the dispensary.
“All of them add invaluable expertise to the store,” Matt continues. “They are a fantastic asset and resource for the business, performing their roles for a long time - and I feel sure customers will continue to see their friendly faces and benefit from their knowledge for a long time to come.
“It’s also wonderful to employ at least a dozen high school and uni students throughout the year. And where would we be without the professional clinical services of our pharmacists Tino, Tapas, Rob and Andrew?
“One of our longstanding team members, Ann Rantall, retires in February next year after nearly 50 years’ work in pharmacies. Ann is wished all the best, and we hope to be able to see her off in style.”
Pharmacist Matt, who is a pharmacist immuniser and consultant, also does home medication reviews, and volunteers for cardiac medication talks for Bellarine Community Health’s cardiac rehabilitation course. A local, Matt lives in Wallington with wife Jo and three sons, Will, Sam and George. His dynamic store offers a wide variety of products and services for health
and beauty needs, and prescription medicine – at a fraction of the usual prices.
Direct Chemist Outlet, Shop 1, Marketplace Shopping Centre, 2-20 Kingston Downs Drive, Ocean Grove. Opens 8.45am-8pm MondayFriday; 9am-5pm Saturday; and 10am-5pm Sunday and public holidays. Inquiries: 5256 2322 or email oceangrove@directchemistoutlet.com.au
HAVING already lived on the Bellarine Peninsula for a few years, the move from Portarlington to The Breeze in Point Lonsdale felt totally natural for Doug and Linda Gray.
“We knew we wanted to downsize and move into a retirement community”, says Doug. “So, we looked at many different options on the Bellarine and The Breeze for us was the best choice by far”.
Every two- or three-bedroom home at The Breeze is thoughtfully designed, with spacious living areas, Miele appliances, two bathrooms, a butler’s pantry, and high-quality finishes such as wool carpets and timber floorboards. Front gardens, gutter cleaning, and external maintenance are all also taken care of.
“Not having to worry about gardening has freed up a lot of time for enjoying all the wonderful activities and amenities The Breeze has to offer”, explains Doug.
Linda says there’s plenty to do, especially within the Waterside Pavilion.
“It has an indoor pool and gym, sports bar, cinema, art studio, and much more. There are even weekly yoga classes, and we are looking forward to the hairdresser that will soon be on site,” Linda says.
Doug notes that they can do as much or as little as they like.
“Everyone is like-minded, and it’s easy to get involved and connect with other residents if you want to”.
Since moving to The Breeze in March this year, the couple has already joined in on a variety of activities, including lawn bowls on The Breeze’s four-rink bowling green, and daily walks around the surrounding waterways.
“We’re also looking forward to getting out on the community’s kayaks and boat now that the weather is warming up”, says Doug.
Linda also participates in the community’s knitting group where she meets with other residents each week to knit jumpers and beanies for charity, while Doug has recently joined the sports bar group where he helps coordinate the running of this wonderful area in the Waterside Pavilion.
“When we first moved to The Breeze, we didn’t know anyone, but have been
very warmly welcomed”, says Linda. “Even during this year’s [COVID-19] lockdowns there have still been opportunities to meet others during socially distanced events and we have really been very grateful for being part of a community during this time”.
The Breeze Point Lonsdale: Designed to provide the very best in relaxed coastal living and a greater sense of community.
The Breeze, 55 Saltbush Circuit, Point Lonsdale. For more information, phone 1300 893 775 or visit www.senciathebreeze.com.au
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Brand new retirement villas at The Breeze, Point Lonsdale, are set right on the waterway, with lovely views of this beautiful, natural environment. After a day socialising at the Waterside Pavilion pool, cinema, gym, dining room and piano lounge, head back to your spacious villa for an evening drink on your private terrace. What’s not to love? These villas will sell fast – the time to secure your retirement on the water is now! To book a private appointment to tour our display suite, call 1300 206 313.
five Waterway Villas remain.
