Geelong Indy - 22nd March 2024

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Athletes gearing up

By Jena Carr

New and returning athletes will race along Geelong’swaterfrontthisweekendforIronman 70.3.

More than 1600 athletes will participate in a 1.9km swim, 90km bike ride and 21.1km run in and around Geelong before finishing at Steampacket Gardens on Sunday, March 24.

Geelong regional director Carl Smith said the event was open to racers of all skills and abilities, with the Iron Kids taking place on Saturday before the adults race on Sunday.

“We’re extremely excited about returning to Geelong, which has been a staple on the Ironman circuit for well over 10 years now,” he said. “It’s a great platform for athletes of all shapes, sizes, skills and abilities to take on the 70.3 journey as this race has a lot of history and is a great destination for anyone coming.

“It’samazingtohavesuchagreatcommunity vibe down on the waterfront and we’re extremely excited for that, as well as 150 or so kids that are going to be taking on the Iron Kids on Saturday.”

GreaterGeelongCitycouncillorEddyKontelj said he was looking forward to competing in the event for the third time and loved the spirit of competition.

“It gives community a sense of pride in what we’re doing in our town and an opportunity to get involved in the events and have a great time,” he said.

“One of the reasons I do it is to try and promote events like this in Geelong and demonstrate that normal people like myself can participate in these types of events.

“People travel to these types of events and they either stay for a short period of time or some people plan holidays around them... so from an economic stimulus perspective, they’re fantastic.”

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said Victoria was home to many significant events, with Geelong providing the “perfect venue” for Ironman 70.3.

“ThisisafantasticopportunityforAustralia’s best triathletes to visit Victoria and explore all we have to offer, including our stunning beaches and picturesque coastline,” he said. Visit ironman.com/im703-geelong for more information about this weekend’s Ironman 70.3 Geelong races.

Eddy Kontelj. (Ivan Kemp) 396092_04

‘‘ One of the reasons I do it is to ... demonstrate that normal people like myself can participate ’’

- Eddy Kontelj

Maintaining the region’s history

By Jena Carr

A new industry factory site in Geelong will look to provide a high-quality and ample industrial space, generating more jobs for the region.

Deputy Prime Minister and federal member for Corio Richard Marles visited Bisinella Developments’ site at 35-45 Technology Close, Corio, on Friday, March 15.

Mr Marles said the growth of local businesses was important as Geelong expanded its infrastructure footprint and growth offerings.

“Geelong’s north has a proud history of manufacturing, and it is fantastic to see projects like this ensuring it remains a part of our region’s future,” he said.

“One of the great opportunities for Geelong, which actually has been a part of our history going back to the 19th century, is around transport logistics.

“When these developments happen here, you can see the economic future of the town... and for the northern suburbs, that have done it tough, this provides hope and an economic future.”

Bisinella Developments chief executive

Richard Bisinella said the 3600 metre-squared factory added to the company’s acquired and managed 110,000 metre-squared warehouse space.

“Geelong is a major industrial hub, with local manufacturing and logistics businesses connecting the broader western Victoria region with Melbourne, national, and international markets,” he said.

“Thiswarehousereinforcesourcommitment to and confidence in the local manufacturing andlogisticssector,withthewarehousedesign tailored to suit a local business in the industry.

“Construction is well underway, and we

Preserving precious family stories

Geelong has celebrated the art of storytelling as libraries welcomed community members to share and learn about the region’s history.

World Storytelling Day was on Wednesday, March 20, with Newcomb Library celebrating the event a day earlier with a ‘Get to Know: History’ session from 10am to 11am.

Geelong Regional Libraries chief executive Vanessa Schernickau said libraries were a “treasure trove of knowledge and stories”, which she was proud to celebrate.

“In celebration of World Storytelling Day, the session at Newcomb Library offers a bridge between past and present and connects attendees through storytelling,” she said.

“This ‘Get to Know’ session not only introduces attendees to new authors and historical stories but also encourages open discussion and community connection.”

The day’s event was just one of Geelong Regional Libraries’ commitment to sharing stories, with the recent Saving Family Stories initiative for people to share and enjoy treasured memories.

The project started at the Leopold and Newcomb Libraries on March 1 to provide free community access to equipment and technical support to preserve old film and photograph items digitally.

Board chair Liz Pattison said finding

opportunities to celebrate, capture and share the region’s unique history was important.

“Providing innovative and customised collections and services to support our local communitiesarebothcommitmentswedeliver onthroughtheSavingFamilyStoriesinitiative,” shesaid.“Theadditionofthisequipmenttoour library collection is a huge asset to the general community and family history enthusiasts in our region.”

More information about Saving Family Stories and library events is available on the Geelong Regional Libraries website.

Jena Carr

Helping children transition into school

Mini Movers programs are helping Geelong children use sports as a fun way to improve motor skills and school readiness.

Leisure Networks will deliver the six-week program every term for 12 months at Whittington Family and Childcare, St Albans Park Kindergarten, and Norlane West Kindergarten.

St Albans Park Kindergarten leader Stacey Mcginness said she was grateful to receive funding from the Anthony Costa Foundation to provide Mini Movers programs for free at the kindergarten.

Ms Mcginness said she could see

improvement in her student’s ability to remember and recall what they learnt each week through the program.

“I think in terms of having a structured activity, rather than free play, the program will help the children as they transition to school,” she said.

“It gives families exposure to a range of different sports so they can see what their children might be interested in before they commit to something outside of kinder.

“It definitely helps with the language and social skills they will need for school, especially learning to take turns, and it’s been

look forward to handing over the keys for this new industrial space when construction is completed.”

Member for Lara Ella George said the development would create close to 100 local jobs and “really speaks to the opportunity in our region”.

“Sites like this can support 25 to 50 workers, ultimatelydeliveringadvancedmanufacturing and other industries to Geelong,” she said.

“We’ve got an incredible workforce backed up by a world class university and a world class tafe and having those training opportunities are so integral to industries in the north.”

First Nations Youth Hub launches

First Nations young people now have access to a new range of services and supportswiththeopeningofayouthhub in Geelong’s north.

The Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-Operative(Wathaurong)community came together to officially open the Healing Spirit Youth Hub, known as Karroong Kanyool - Home of the Young –at20AForsterStreet,NorlaneonFriday (March 15).

The hub is a culturally safe gathering space, providing young First Nations peoplewithclinical,socialandemotional wellbeing services.

Designed in consultation with young people in the community, the space includes consulting suites, a sensory space, access to computers and technology, gathering spaces with a central firepit for yarning circles and recreational space including a basketball halfcourt.

The Victorian state government supported the hub’s development with funding of $1.6 million through its Aboriginal Community Infrastructure Program.

The launch event was attended by community members, Wathaurong chief executive Simon Flagg and Parliamentary Secretary for First Peoples Christine Couzens. The Forster Street site has been operated by Wathaurong since 1984, first as its headquarters, then as a community space since 1996.

Mr Flagg said the board’s vision was that the next generation would be able to call Forster Street home.

“Wathaurong has listened to our young people, and we are thrilled to finally deliver on a space that has been developed by and for our young mob,” Mr. Flagg said.

“Our youth are our future, our Elders of tomorrow, and we want them to grow and become our leaders through the programs and supports we offer here.”

Ms Couzens said First Nations Young People needed a culturally safe and supportive space to connect with community and culture.

good to have access to different equipment and resources.”

AnthonyCostaFoundationgeneralmanager Cynthia Scherer said she was pleased to support the program through the foundation’s small grants round earlier this year.

“The evidence-based program uses movementandsportasavehicletoimprovethe overall well-being of children,” she said.

“We understand the importance of ensuring young children are on track as it relates to their physical health, well-being, social competence, emotional maturity, language, and communication skills.”

“The Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative has created a great space for young First Nations People and families to access the services in the one location,” she said. “Karroong Kanyool, meaning‘HomeofYoung’,isnowaspace First Nations Young People and families inGeelongcancalltheirown,wherethey canconnectwithcommunityandreceive the supports and services they need to thrive.” Karroong Kanyool will open for programs in Term 2, with details of available programs to be published on www.wathaurong.org.au soon.

Laurie Scott, left Kerry Mentha and John Mitchell celebrate World Storytelling Day at Newcomb Library. (Ivan Kemp) 395755_03

City can’t afford new pool costs

By Justin Flynn

Drysdale’s recently opened aquatic centre faces closure for six months of the year because the City of Greater Geelong can’t afford to keep it open.

The $15 million North Bellarine Aquatic Centre opened in November, but the heated outdoor 50 metre pool is set to close down at the end of the month and won’t reopen until November.

Mayor Trent Sullivan said the centre was “originally intended to be opened year-round, and that’s our aim for the facility when budget allows”.

“Like many in our community, we are facing

cost pressures that require difficult financial decisions, and we are currently looking at options for an extended opening while assessing the cost implications,” he said.

Drysdale local Louise Skeen has started a petition to keep the aquatic centre open.

“This means that our brand new local pool will be closed for more months than it’s opena decision that contradicts its original promise and restricts access to this vital community resource,” she said. “Regular swimming has been proven to have numerous health benefits including cardiovascular fitness and muscle strength enhancement and also improves social connection and mental well being.

“By limiting access to this facility we are

potentially hindering our community’s health and well being.”

Federal Member for Corangamite Libby Coker is campaigning for the aquatic centre to close at the end of April and reopen at the beginning of October, reducing the closure from seven to five months.

“Many residents rely on the pool for recreation, rehabilitation, exercise, and social connection, particularly through the warmer months of the year,” Ms Coker said.

“Right from the outset, my consistent message to council was the community wanted a pool that would be open and accessible on an ongoing basis. Unfortunately, my concerns and the concerns of the community regarding

Women share experience and skills

It was a day of female camaraderie and skill sharing as Women in Rescue (WIR) wrapped up in the Barwon Southwest region.

Female Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) and Country Fire Authority (CFA) volunteers attended the training event at 90 Furner Avenue, Bell Park, on Saturday, March 16.

VICSES Bellarine Unit volunteer Rachel Vella said she enjoyed seeing everyone attempting real-world scenarios while sharing experiences and skills at the WIR event.

“You get to try something and then if that doesn’t work, you can try something else,

whereas on a job you don’t have as much flexibility,” she said.

“It’s really about getting that time on the tools to get some practice with that, build some confidenceinthoseskillsandworkwithpeople from a range of different skill sets.

“There was some really fantastic teamwork between people that have never even met each otherbefore,butthey’reintheirtroubleshooting and working out how to resolve an issue.”

Ms Vella said close to 20 female volunteers participated in the day’s activities, surrounded by a safe and positive environment.

“The first stand we did was how to get a

casualty off a bus and trying the logistics of getting a casualty off a bus that has potential spinal injuries,” she said.

“The second looked at incident management and how we manage incidents, triage jobs, and how we look at allocating crews and resources when we’re operating during large events.

“Thethirdonelookedattheappweuse,Snap Send Solve, for gathering real time intelligence during events that feedback into the incident command centre.”

Visit ses.vic.gov.au for more information about VICSES and how to become a volunteer.

Jena Carr

year-round access have proven valid, as evidenced by the dissatisfaction expressed by residents.”

Senator Sarah Henderson the “closure by stealth…represents a betrayal of our community”.

“This wonderful 50-metre outdoor heated pool, funded by the former Coalition government in partnership with council, must remain open all year round as council committedtodo,”shesaid. “With24,000visits since it opened last November, the aquatic centre has proved to be a dream come true and a wonderful asset for the health and wellbeing of our community. Bellarine residents deserve the right to access this facility all year round.”

North buildings up for lease

Two Geelong council-owned buildings in thecity’snortharenowavailableforlease.

The two buildings at 19 Sparks Road, Norlane, were previously home to the City Learning and Care - Trudy Moritz childcare centre and a maternal child health facility.

The council is encouraging expressions ofinterestfromcommunityorganisations and businesses to lease the two buildings andtheapproximately1765-sqmproperty.

The expression of interest process will require interested parties to demonstrate the site would be suitable for their needs.

The council has advised the facilities likelyrequire investment to make them fit for use, at the expense of the new lessee.

Mayor Trent Sullivan said he hoped the process would result in the facilities being reactivated.

“We’re keen to hear proposals from interested community groups and businesses with ideas to give these buildings new life,” Mayor Sullivan said.

“We’re especially hoping to see the site returned to being a place that brings benefit for the local community.”

The council also encouraged the community to have its say on the kind of uses it would like to see the buildings put to. Such community submissions would be used to

Deputy Mayor Anthony Aitken said the Council wanted to see a sustainable future use and management arrangement for the buildings.

Expressions of interest for the site can be made at yoursay.geelongaustralia. com.au/TMCLeaseEOI until 5pm on Friday, April 26.

Emergency service volunteers Eliza Otte, Emma Hayes, Rachel Vella and Kerry Copley move a patient into an ambulance. (Ivan Kemp) 395113_10

Dedicated marine science centre

Marine science students and researchers will have access to better facilities and a new centre in Queenscliff, thanks to the state government.

Deakin University’s Queenscliff Marine Science Centre was upgraded to provide hands-on learning opportunities, enhance marine research and benefit local industries and communities.

Minister for Skills and TAFE Gayle Tierney said students could gain skills in priority areas like sustainability, environmental protection and climate change resilience.

“This new centre not only opens doors for

students and researchers, but it establishes Victoria as a leader in marine science and sustainability studies,” she said.

“Water management is an essential part of the clean economy and by backing projects like this we’re not just supporting universities; we’re supporting jobs and a more sustainable future.”

Deakin University received $2 million in funding from the state government’s Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund for the facility and an Integrated Water Management Plan.

Jumping at new heights

Ocean Grove’s Paula Simpson has taken her star jumps to new heights after winning a Surf Coast Events competition.

The mum of three and grandmother of seven won a Tiger Moth World Torquay flight for two on a vintage open-cockpit biplane during the competition’s latest round.

Ms Simpson is known for her unique star jump poses, which she began 15 years ago to document where she’s been, and said the flight was an “amazing experience”.

“I’ve never been up in a Tiger Moth before. I love adventures and I thought ‘that looks like fun’. It was amazing,” Paula said.

“Iwasn’tnervousasI’mabitofathrillseeker. I’ve jumped out of planes before. My husband doesn’t really like flights, so I sent him first; he absolutely loved it.

“For my 50th I took a photo of me doing a star jump somewhere every day and my niece made it into a coffee table book for me.”

Ms Simpson witnessed acrobatics, loops and

rolls over the Torquay coastline during the ride before having lunch and a tour of Bells Beach Brewery.

Surf Coast Shire councillor Paul Barker said there were many experiences people could have across the region. “I’ve done a thousand sky dives from the same location as where Tiger MothWorldTorquayisandknowhowbeautiful the Surf Coast looks from the sky,” he said.

“TheSurfCoastShirehassomanywonderful localbusinessesandeventsforpeople.Whether it’s a weekend adventure, or mid-week outing, there is always something to do.”

Visit surfcoastevents.com.au to stay up to date and enter Surf Coast Event’s latest competition or visit tigermothworld.com.au for more information about Tiger Moth World Torquay.

Ocean Grove’s Paula Simpson has jumped for joy after winning a Surf Coast Events competition. (Supplied)

Partnerships deputy vice-chancellor Dr David Halliwell said Waurn Ponds’ water management system supported biodiversity, improved water quality and provided cutting-edge sustainability research.

“This investment helps enable some of Deakin’s key education and research priorities to create smarter technologies and enable a sustainable world.”

“We’re passionate about providing the best opportunities for experiential learning and applied research to empower the next generation of guardians to our waterways.”

The centre featured an aquarium and high-performing computer labs to help deliver Deakin’sBachelorofMarineScience,thestate’s only dedicated undergraduate marine science degree.

Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant said thefacilityhelped“positiontheBellarineregion at the forefront of marine science education”.

More information about the Victorian Higher Education State Investment Fund is available at vic.gov.au/projects-fundedvictorian-higher-education-state-investmentfund

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YOUR SAY

Bravo for house stand

I commend the Surf Coast Shire on its proposed moves to address housing affordability within its jurisdiction (‘Housing affordability a priority’, Independent, March 8).

A measure of the gap between supply and demand for residential propertiesreasonably priced or otherwise - is that some property owners are now renting out space in their backyards - to those prepared to live in tents.

Fair dinkum. What is our society morphing into?

The gap between the ‘Haves’ and the ‘Have Nots’ has rarely been wider.

Michael J Gamble, Belmont

Big ‘no’ to seismic blast

The decision to approve the world’s biggest seismic blasting disaster is now being considered by Federal Resources Minister Madeleine King.

What is it? Louder than the most powerful atom bomb, a 259 decibel seismic blast is detonated at the ocean surface every 10 seconds, 24/7 for 400 days. The resulting sound waves penetrate 20km below the seabed to search out ancient fossil fuel deposits.

Everything living in the surrounding ocean - from the smallest zooplankton to the largest whale - is killed, injured or displaced. Why? To find methane to sell and overcook Planet Earth.

An area off the coast of southwestern Victoria, almost the size of Tasmania, is under threat of ecological destruction.

I will be adding my voice to the Cosy

Corner rally/paddle out at Torquay, noon

Saturday March 23 to help raise a noise Canberra can hear and silence seismic blasting.

John Murray, Queenscliff

Open letter to council

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the recent decision made by six ill-informed councillors to overturn an independent council office recommendation for a Bell Park Sport and Recreation Club facility upgrade to be the council’s priority project in the upcoming submissions for state government funding.

It was disheartening to witness Peter Murrihy propose an amendment that replaced Bell Park with his old club, Newtown and Chilwell, at the top of the council’s list. The reasoning provided for dislodging Bell Park, citing ’a greater need,’ not only disregards factual evidence but also defies logic.

Elderslie Reserve currently has perfectly functional netball changerooms that offer female-specific amenities for training and competition on Saturdays, as well as availability for females playing AFL on Sundays. However, Bell Park Sport and Recreation Club lacks any netball changerooms and female-neutral facilities. Over 312 female players across AFL football, cricket, All Abilities football and cricket, and netball (180 active participants) have no option but to change at home, use the social clubroom cubicles, wrap a towel, or utilise the ageing changerooms with all the deficiencies Peter Murrihy himself listed for his club.

Moreover, there is a complete absence

of shelter from the sun, wind, and rain court-side at Bell Park. This situation is unacceptable and requires urgent attention.

It is concerning that the council officers preparing the documentation required for both projects were aware of these discrepancies, yet the six councillors voting for the amendment seemingly were not. No clear-thinking, open-minded person could objectively assess the needs of the two clubs and decide that Newtown deserved priority. Ignorance may offer some explanation for the amendment’s passing, but any alternative would signify a blatant abuse of power.

As a ratepayer, I assert my fundamental right to local government decision-making that is informed and unbiased. I demand that all necessary steps be taken immediately to rectify this gross miscarriage of judgement, and that the six councillors be held accountable for their actions.

An inquiry involving input from all relevant stakeholders is imperative as a crucial step toward restoring confidence in the integrity of our council.

I eagerly await your response and action on this matter.

Bell Park Sport & Recreation Club

HAVE YOUR SAY

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CBD medical hub announced

By Matt Hewson

One of Geelong’s recently constructed office towers is now fully occupied following a number of new leasing agreements.

The nine-level office building at 60 Moorabool Street, which is home to health insurer GMHBA headquarters, announced on Friday (March 15) it had reached leasing capacity.

Insurance Australia Group (IAG) and GMHBAareamongtherecentlessees,withthe latterannouncingitwouldexpanditspresence

in the building with a new multidisciplinary medical hub on the ground floor.

The hub will provide access to dental, eye care, medical and physiotherapy services, which will be available to the general public.

The building, which was completed in 2021, is co-owned by GMHBA and Quintessential Equity.

GMHBA chief executive David Greig said the office tower attracted a professional workforce excited to work in the Geelong CBD.

“We have a team of almost 300 staff

App gathers the crew

A free app is helping people like Geelong’s Jacinta Wickstead communicate and ask for help from loved ones without the pressure.

Ms Wickstead was pregnant with her second daughter, Audrey, when the baby was diagnosed with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), a rare genetic disease causing non-cancerous tumours.

She said she used to feel like a “burden” when family and friends asked if she needed help as she was unsure how to convey what she needed and who could help.

“You know that everyone means well, and they want to help, but often it’s not knowing what to suggest because you don’t know people’s capacities,” Ms Wickstead said.

“She’s (Audrey) been in and out of hospital, two brain surgeries, constant medical appointments and accessing, and it’s always unknown with her medical condition as to what we’re going to face next.

“It’s hard to articulate what you need

because you’re so overwhelmed mentally that you don’t even know how to ask for help or what the specific need is until the situation arises.”

Ms Wickstead said she used Gather My Crew, a free app that linked people needing help with their loved ones, to organise everything and share updates.

“It was fantastic because we could give updates, let people know how Audrey was progressing, and how people could pray and support us emotionally and mentally,” she said.

“I could really focus on just being with Audrey and our other daughter Ava and being present in that situation rather than thinking about how I have all these people to organise and coordinate.”

Visit gathermycrew.org.au for more information about Gather My Crew.

Jena Carr

members who work in our head office and the Geelong Hub will be an important addition to the company’s Health and Branch Network,” he said.

“Establishing a state-of-the-art hub will provide the community with improved access to high-quality medical care at a time when the demand for primary and allied health services is growing in Geelong.”

Quintessential general manager of asset management Julian McVilly said his organisation was delighted to have reached a “significant milestone”.

“It is another illustration of the flight to quality we are seeing in the market, and 60 Moorabool Street is a high-quality building with great amenities and a prime location,” he said.

“60 Moorabool perfectly encapsulates Quintessential’s commitment to Geelong and our belief in it as a major regional hub for business.

“The prime location and state-of-the-art facilities offer businesses a great environment, which will play a role in attracting and retaining talent in a growing market.”

NO ONE’S UNSINKABLE

To all those Unsinkable Guys out there –You might think it’s safe to have a few drinks around water, skip the life jacket when you’re out on the boat or go for a swim without checking the conditions.

But statistics prove that 4 out of 5 drownings are men.

Just remember that no one’s unsinkable.

Jacinta Wickstead is helping raise awareness of an app that helps connect people needing help with their loved ones. (Supplied)

Walking for refugee awareness

By Jena Carr

Queenscliff community members will walk four kilometres to raise awareness of refugees stuck in limbo.

Queenscliff Rural Australians for Refugees (RAR) will start and finish the walk on March 23 from the Marine Science Discover Centre on 2A Bellarine Highway, with the event beginning at 10am.

Intuitive Day Out organiser Shaun McLeod. (Ivan Kemp) 393842_06

Convenor Sue Longmore said the walk was part of Big Walk 4 Refugees, a national effort and six-week 40,000km virtual walk highlighting visa uncertainty faced by more than 10,000 people.

“The idea for it was inspired by the fact that lastyear,duetothedesperatenessoftheasylum seekers situation, as they’ve been in limbo in a state of temporary visas,” she said.

“They came by boat to seek asylum from a

variety of different countries, and under the policies of that time, you were processed under a system called the Fast Track system.

“The government has said this system was unfair and flawed, so what are they going to do about it for those 10,000 who are stuck in this state and unable to reunite with family for 11 years.”

PeoplewillwalkalongQueenscliff’sNarrows walk and bike path to Point Lonsdale’s Spring

Celebrating music, food by the river

Music fans of all ages will have the chance to enjoy a day of tunes, coffee and food beside the Barwon River this weekend.

Intuitive Day Out, held at Sweet Adeline Cafe in Newtown, will be a family-friendly celebration of music, permaculture and fresh produce, organic coffee, nature and community, with all funds raised going to Barwon Health.

Musical entertainment will include Afrodelik artist Immy Owusus and singer-songwriter Annie-Rose Maloney, while Michaela McHugh will conduct a bushwalk along the bank of the Barwon River for children and adults alike.

Event organiser Shaun McLeod, who runs his own business Intuitive Garden Design and Maintenance, said the event was inspired by the sense of community inspired by iconic Geelong venues such as the National Hotel in bygone days.

He said the event, which runs from 2pm to 5pm on Sunday, March 24, was all about bringing the people together to “hang out and feel surrounded by friends”.

“It’s really about community, bringing all the like-minded people that are interested in food, hot drink, music and culture to hang out,” he said.

“It’s about supporting other local doers.

Both the musos are originally from Geelong. There are going to be door prizes with veggie boxesfromOrganicLarder,BirdlandProduce, (and) Valerie’s Pantry in Belmont.

“Also, it’s cool to be able to bring your kids to things, and there are a lot of people transitioning away from alcohol who still want to see music. So to have an outside alcohol-free gig amongst the trees and by the river, it’s wholesome.”

Visit events.humanitix.com/ intuitive-day-out for tickets and more information.

Matt Hewson

Beach in support of the inaugural event taking place from February 13 to March 26.

“We hope that any passing walkers or traffic will see what we’re up to and then it will conclude back at the grass area outside the marine discovery centre,” Ms Longmore said.

“It’s an awareness raising thing among the community and an opportunity to show our support for asylum seekers in our local areas who are in this dreadful situation.”

Saving money on energy bills in Geelong

Many Geelong households are slashing energy bills thanks to the state government’s Solar Homes Hot Water Rebate.

There have been 16,132 program applications during this financial year, a 224 per cent increase from the previous year, with 975 applications coming from Greater Geelong.

MinisterforEnergyandResourcesLily D’Ambrosio said applications exceeded theprogram’sinitialtarget,leadingtothe addition of 8000 more rebates on offer.

“We’re helping more Victorians save on the upfront cost of installation of heat pump or solar hot water systems and slash their energy bills every year after,” she said.

“More Victorians than ever before are taking advantage of our rebates and switching to efficient electric technology, saving thousands of dollars and driving down emissions.”

Ms D’Ambrosio said the expansion would save residents $1000 off the cost of aheatpumphotwatersysteminstallation and up to $400 a year on electricity bills.

She also said many households were swapping out gas and saving on their energy bills through the state government’s Solar Homes Rebate and Victorian Energy Upgrades Program.

Heating and hot water account for more than 50 per cent of total energy usage in a home, with 20,000 heat pump hot water systems installed in Victoria to date.

The state government also delivers free training to upskill plumbers through an $11 million workplace development program to ensure fast water system installations.

Visit solar.vic.gov.au/hot-water-rebate formoreinformationortoapplyforahot water rebate visit.

Award-winning author visits

By Matt Hewson

Localhighschoolstudentshadtheopportunity to hear from and work with an award-winning local author this week.

Geelong author Kgshak Akec visited Matthew Flinders Girls Secondary College (MFG) on Monday, March 18 to run a workshop for Year 12 VCE English students on the theme of writing about personal journeys.

For her debut novel Hopeless Kingdom, which won the 2021 Dorothy Hewett Award and was shortlisted for the 2023 Miles Franklin Literary Award, Ms Akec drew on her experiences as a six-year-old migrant refugee coming to Australia from Sudan via Egypt.

In the workshop she discussed writing about her personal journey before providing students with prompts to draw on their own memory and experiences to produce a short work.

Ms Akec, 26, said she was “very impressed”

with the students’ creativity and “strong sense of self”.

“I delved deep into my own personal journey to draw that out of them, and I saw how quickly that they felt connected to me… asking questions and telling me what they got out of the lesson, sharing a little bit about themselves and their own personal journeys and the memories that they have,” she said.

“Itwasareallynicewaytoformaconnection with the students but also create a space of shared storytelling because I was learning as much from them as they were from me.”

MFG student Sienna Donatucci said Ms Akec presented some really interesting ideas she had never considered before.

“(Ms Akec) was absolutely lovely, and the way she spoke she seemed so informed, very grounded, she knew what she was talking about,” she said.

“It was all very real, you could tell her story is very dear to her. It was really great to hear her story directly from her.”

Trash into treasure

The continued roll-out of container recycling drop-off points is making it easier for residents to support important local organisations and charities.

The Victorian Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) has just installed its 17th refund point in the Greater Geelong area, with its latest reverse vendingmachineinstalledatDrysdaleBowling and Croquet Club.

The scheme, which partners with local charities and community organisations to help their fundraising efforts, has collected more than 47.7 million containers in regional Victoria since it commenced on November 1 last year.

Members of the public are given the option at drop-off to nominate a CDS fundraising partner as the recipient of the refund for their containers.

Geelong Animal Rescue (GAR), which dedicates itself to the rescue and rehoming of unwanted animals, has been signed up as a CDS partner since the second week of the scheme.

GAR director Jordan Barker said her organisation was run entirely by volunteers and relied on fundraising for 100 per cent of its operational costs.

“We’re really excited to be a part of it,” Ms Barker said.

TIPS FOR A SUSTAINABLE EASTER

Chocolate, egg hunts and family gatherings are all part of the fun and festivities for many, but celebrations don’t have to end with overflowing bins. Try to reduce your waste, reuse things wherever you can, and recycle what’s left over.

You can scrunch aluminium foil wrapping from Easter eggs into a golf ball sized ball and place in your recycling bin. Don’t have enough foil? Just insert them into an empty soft drink can.

Place cardboard, paper and rigid plastic packaging from your Easter treats in your recycling bin too. Remember to completely separate any plastic from the inside of cardboard boxes.

Before purchasing Easter decorations, think about what will happen to them afterwards. Can you reuse them? If not, can you recycle them?

Hot cross buns are another popular Easter tradition. Unfortunately, you may not be able to avoid buying buns in soft plastic bags, so try saving and reusing the bags, and remember to recycle the bread tag!

If catching up with family and friends, reduce waste and save money by organising who will bring what beforehand. We can all do our bit by being more waste-wise. Scan the QR code or visit geelong.link/ SustainableEaster for more waste-wise Easter ideas.

HAVE YOUR SAY

2024 Geelong Wall Calendar

MEETING

Notice of meeting

We are hosting the next Council meeting on Tuesday 26 March at the Council Conference and Reception Centre, City Hall, Little Malop Street, Geelong. Entry is from 6.15pm for a 6.30pm start.

Reports for consideration include:

›Youth Council First Report 2024

›Draft Fair Access Policy

›Our Community Plan Quarterly ReportDecember 2023

For full details of the agenda and to watch the Council meeting, scan the QR code or visit geelong.link/CouncilMeetings

You can submit a question to Council by noon on Monday 25 March via the web page above.

EVENTS

Ironman 70.3 Geelong

This weekend, the iconic Ironman 70.3 Geelong returns to our picturesque Waterfront.

The excitement begins on Saturday with IronKids, inspiring young athletes to embrace a healthy lifestyle and the thrill of competition.

Then on Sunday, watch triathlon excellence as competitors from across the globe converge on Geelong to participate.

Catch the action in-person, scan the QR code or visit geelong. link/IronmanGeelong for more information and live coverage.

Lara Food and Wine Festival

Embark on a flavourful journey at the Lara Food and Wine Festival on this Sunday from 10.00am to 4.00pm. With over 70 exhibitors, you can savour the tastes of our region’s best gourmet delights and finest wines.

Experience culinary magic first hand with live cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs Gabriel Gaté and Simon Toohey and fun for the whole family including children’s activities, and all day live music performances.

For more information, scan the QR code or visit geelong.link/

LaraFoodWine

TRAFFIC CHANGES

If you are travelling near the below locations within these dates and times, please scan the QR code or visit geelong.link/IronmanGeelong for detailed information regarding changed traffic conditions.

Ironman 70.3 Geelong

›Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 March

›Various times and areas

›Tow away zones include Ritchie Boulevard Upper Eastern Beach Road and Western Foreshore Road car park

›Major road closures will include Portarlington Road - Curlewis bound

›Bus routes/times will be affected.

“It feels very wholesome. It’s a chance for people to recycle, help the planet, and also help animals.”

JamesDorney,chiefexecutiveofthescheme’s West Zone network operator TOMRA Cleanaway, said he was very excited to see the new refund point installed at Drysdale.

“The community has shown that when provided with a convenient, accessible, and technology-based container deposit scheme network, they will get involved,” Mr Dorney said.

Matt Hewson

“It means that people in the community can, through accessing the CDS, select our charity when they drop off their recycling. It’s a really cool system and we’re very grateful we’ve been able to partner with them.

We’re seeking your feedback on the content, format and distribution of our free full-colour annual wall calendar. We’d also like to know what you think about our photo competition.

Your feedback is important to us, and there are multiple options to have your say, so scan the QR code or visit geelong.link/ CalendarHYS or you can call us on 5272 5272 for a hard copy form.

Engagement closes at 5.00pm on Tuesday 2 April 2024.

The new Container Deposit Scheme drop-off point at Drysdale. (Supplied)

Author Kgshak Akec with MFG Year 12 students. (Sienna Donatucci)

Have it serviced every two years to keep it safe from fire.

Since your home solar energy system is out there in the sun, wind and rain, it’s important to show it some love and keep it safe. Have it serviced now and every two years by a licensed electrician.

Learn more at esv.vic.gov.au/solar-safety

Service your solar PV system and reduce safety risks.

Energy Safe Victoria and Solar Victoria have launched the Show Your Solar Some Love campaign to encourage Victorians to service their solar PV systems to avoid safety risks such as fire.

Energy Safe CEO Leanne Hughson said solar PV systems needed to be serviced for the same reason your car needs servicing; to ensure it’s always running safely.

Over 2022-2023, Energy Safe investigated 53 fires related to rooftop solar. This follows 28 fires being investigated in the previous year by the regulator. “These fires could have been prevented if the solar PV system had been serviced.” Ms Hughson said.

Victorians using solar are encouraged to get their systems serviced by a licensed A-Grade electrician at least once every two years.

Hot and cold temperatures, wind, rain and other extreme weather events can cause damage and wear to solar PV installations. Regular servicing mitigates this risk, ensuring they are working safely and efficiently. Audits conducted by Energy Safe have found a major cause of solar PV system fires was moisture

impacting DC isolators – a switch that stops electricity flowing through the system in emergency situations.

Victorian Government research shows that fewer than half of Victorians are aware of the importance of servicing their solar PV systems, which involves electrical testing of the components that make up a solar panel system, as well as inspecting the integrity of equipment and cabling.

Solar Victoria CEO Stan Krpan said it was important for homeowners to set up a maintenance plan with their solar retailer to ensure their system was operating properly, safely and efficiently.

Solar Homes Program retailers and installers can help customers keep their system working safely and at its best, so it maximises their savings with solar.

“Safety underpins everything we do, and our customers should feel reassured,“ Mr Krpan said. “Solar Homes installations meet robust safety and quality standards, including the use of authorised retailers, accredited installers and carefully assessed products. And safety has improved dramatically as a result of our program, with only 0.1 percent of installs audited needing to be rectified for safety reasons.”

Further information at: esv.vic.gov.au/solar-safety

Badminton star takes on world

Badminton player Jacob Scheuler has had a big two years.

In 2022 Jacob was selected for the Australian team for the Thomas Cup, the badminton men’s world championship, although due to COVID-19 the team did not compete in the tournament that May.

A month later, he won the Australian National Championships men’s title in Bendigo,whichalsoledtotherealisationofone of his long-held dreams.

The national title earned him a spot in the Australian squad for the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham later that year, which Jacob said was “big”.

“It was a goal for me for a long time, at least four years,” he said.

“The biggest thing that hit me was the people greeting you at the airport, wishing you good luck. The support you get is just enormous.

“And then playing top level players as well, it was a chance to play India, players from those high-level countries. Playing against those players is a huge honour.”

Currently the 167th ranked men’s player in the world, Jacob has more recently competed at the Oceania Badminton Championships, hosted by Badminton Geelong in February this year, anchoring the singles for a dominant Australian team.

He said the experience of playing a major tournament in his own backyard had both pros and cons.

“It’s great to have the family and Geelong support,” Jacob said.

“But the downside is I put extra pressure on myself, because I want to live up to people’s expectations and repay the support I’ve received over the years.

“I was generally happy with my performance at Oceania, although I was disappointed not to make the final,” Jacob said.

“Butit’sbeenasolidworkout,andthewinsin themen’sandwomen’steamseventswasgreat.”

Australia has clinched the Oceania spot at the upcoming Thomas Cup, the biennial men’s world championship event in Chengdu, China this April-May, and Jacob has been announced as part of the team.

It will be the fourth Thomas Cup Jacob has beenselectedfor,althoughduetothepandemic he has only competed in the 2018 edition of the event.

However,evengivenhissuccessoverthepast couple of years, Jacob said his selection was not guaranteed due to reasons off the court.

“Last year there was a selection (for the Sudirman Cup mixed team event); I didn’t make it, and I was like, there was nothing more I could have done,” he said.

“I’ve been on the outer with the coaching panel… and they decided not to pick me. The disappointment of that hit me really hard, because that one, I was confident. I was like, yep, I’ve done it, I had some great results, I know I’m in.

“Itreallyshatteredme,thewayitwashandled and the way things were said. I can’t control those sort of things so I just focus on what I can control. If I make it then that’s amazing for me, and if I don’t then I understand. They (the coaching panel) are trying to change and make a fresh new start, but that’s what happened. ”Despite the bumps along the road, Jacob said he was excited to once again face off against the best players in the world.

“This is a class of badminton players that we don’t usually get to play against,” Jacob said.

“These are the players we watch almost weekly, follow and see what they’re doing and try to copy them.

“So to then play against them is just a huge opportunity.

“After 15 years I’m still constantly learning and realising there’s always something new; change this, try that.”

Born in Geelong, Jacob attended Grovedale West Primary School and then Oberon High School for four years before attending

Maribyrnong Sports Academy (MSA) on a scholarship.

Having begun playing badminton at age 11 with Ocean Grove, he soon discovered he wanted to pursue the sport seriously, and transferring to MSA was the next step he had to take.

“It’s a sports school, so they do both training and school; the training sessions are from 6.45 in the morning to 8.30, then you go to school as normal,” he said.

“At the time they had an assistant national coach, they had some Olympic players who had retired, that sort of calibre of coaches, which made it really appealing.

One of the things Jacob has always loved about badminton is that there are multiple ways to excel at the sport, depending on the individual’s natural talents

“Everyone has their own advantages and disadvantages,” he said.

“It doesn’t really matter if you’re physically weaker; I was always a weaker kid, but I was always quite fit, so I had to play that to my advantage.

“Some people are stronger, some are technically so good they make it look so easy. And some people just play really smart; there’s always a different thinking element. It really can be like chess.

“And the speed of the sport is probably its greatest asset, just how quick it can be. No one realises how fast it is until you really watch it live.”

Jacob is now based in Maribyrnong, where he coaches at MSA and trains five to six days a week.

He said he couldn’t thank his parents Sharon and Rolf and the wider Geelong and Ocean Grove community enough for their support along his journey.

“You don’t get to where you are without them, anything I asked, if they could help me when I was a kid, they were always there to say yes,” he said.

“They basically gave everything I could have, the best chance I could have asked for.

“They’ve been in my corner and even today I’ll call them up, ask them for advice. They’re always there.”

Former Ocean Grove Badminton Club player Jacob Scheuler has been selected to represent Australia at the badminton men’s world championships in China next month. He spoke to Matt Hewson about his journey so far as a young professional sportsman.

Jacob Scheuler in action. (Pictures: Supplied)

Helping to achieve goals

gforce is a registered NDIS provider and delivers School Leaver Employment Supports (SLES).

SLES is an early intervention approach for Year 12 school leavers living with disability. We support participants in the transition from school to work and help young people to prepare, look for and gain employment. We do this by providing meaningful, individualised capacity building activities so young people can achieve their employment goals. Activities can include unpaid work experience to overcome barriers and build confidence or by developing a working lifestyle and skills to support the transition to work.

All supports are designed to build

participant capacity and equip them for ongoing success in the workplace.

How to register with gforce:

• Participants must be aged between 17 and 22 years old

• Participants must be an Australian citizen or have a right to work in Australia

• Participants must have a current NDIS Plan, or in the process of obtaining one

• Participants should demonstrate a desire to improvecapacity,developskillsandenterthe world of work

If you are interested in registering with gforce, we can help you.

Pop into a gforce office in person or call 1800 436 723 today.

Carly joins the Continence at Conquip team

Continence at Conquip is proud to present Carly Headlam, a dedicated Continence Nurse Consultant serving the Geelong community.

With a wealth of experience in urology, colorectal, community, and mental health, Carly brings a comprehensive approach to managingcontinenceissues.

Carly’s expertise lies in conducting thorough assessments, focusing on urinary and faecal incontinence, skin integrity, diet, nutrition, physical and mental health, and neurologicalfactors.

Herholisticmethodologyhelpsidentifythe root causes of incontinence, allowing her to crafttailoredcareplansforherpatients.

Beyond her core role, Carly is passionate about educating patients, families, and support workers about incontinence, its causes, potential treatments, and preventive techniques.

She also actively implements and oversees management tactics like bladder and bowel trainingprograms.

In her personal life, Carly is a dedicated motherandcommunitymember.Shecoaches netball for the Queenscliff Netball and Football Club and volunteers with Netball Victoria, teaching primary students the essentialskillsofthesport.Inherleisuretime, Carlyenjoysfishingandimmersingherselfin thetranquillityitoffers.

Contact Carly today at carly@suttonhouse. com.au or call 03 9876 3374 to discuss your continence needs and take the first step towards a better quality of life.

Carly Headlam is a dedicated Continence Nurse Consultant for Continence at Conquip. (Supplied)

gforce supports participants in the transition from school to work. (Supplied)

Collaboration bridging the gap

In the healthcare landscape, collaboration stands as a cornerstone for achieving remarkable outcomes.

When professionals unite their expertise and resources, they can accomplish far more than they ever could alone.

This fundamental principle is at the core of thedynamicpartnershipbetweenCrossingThe Gap and Barwon Occupational Therapy (OT). These two esteemed organisations have joined forces to provide comprehensive support and services to their community, with a particular focus on mental health, paediatrics, senior health, and the disability sector.

“We support each other, promoting each other’s businesses,” Kristy from Crossing The Gap says.

“We found that by working together, we can go a lot further. I have had the privilege of working closely with Anna, the director of Barwon OT, for a good seven years. I first met Anna when working for another organisation; she not only trained my staff but continues to provide invaluable training to my team today.

“When I ventured out on my own, Anna and Gwen helped me establish my company and have stood by my side every day since.”

Barwon OT

Barwon OT is renowned for its diverse team of passionatealliedhealthprofessionalsdedicated to making a difference in the lives of their clientsandcommunities.Theystronglybelieve in matching participants with the right OT, socialworker,psychologistortherapyassistant to ensure personalised and effective care. Furthermore, Barwon OT offers their clients the option to complete appointments in their comfortableconsultingrooms,toattendgroup of staff training in their multipurpose training hub or to trial equipment in their impressive

sensory gym, providing a range of versatile environments for therapy and development. The option to complete appointments in the clinic provides participants with important cost savings options for therapist time and travel.

To learn more about Barwon OT and their incredible services, visit barwonoccupationaltherapy.com or phone 03 5200 2684.

Crossing The Gap

Crossing The Gap is a beacon of educational excellence, dedicated to empowering students with diverse learning needs. Their specialisation in supporting students with Specific Learning Differences (SLD) is

underscored by a strong emphasis on school readiness.

What sets Crossing The Gap apart is their unwavering commitment to working alongside Allied Health professionals. This approach ensures that each student receives personalised attention, tailored to their unique learning style, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.

Collaboration is at the heart of Crossing The Gap’s ethos. They prioritise partnerships with parents, carers, and schoolteachers, recognising that a united front leads to the best outcomes for students. This collaborative approach extends beyond the classroom, with resources available to support students’ learning at home and at school.

Crossing The Gap ensures that each child has access to the tools and support they need to succeed, empowering them to reach their full potential.

To learn more about Crossing The Gap and their transformative approach to education, visit their website ctgdisability.com.au or contact Kristy on 0493 057 276.

Crossing The Gap and Barwon OT share a vision of empowering individuals and families to reach their full potential. By pooling their expertise and resources, they have created a robust network of support that extends across the Barwon region, covering areas like Geelong, Golden Plains, Colac, Surf Coast, Bellarine Peninsula, and more.

Kristy and Anna ensure that each child has access to the tools and support they need to succeed. (Supplied)

Crime up in Greater Geelong

By Justin Flynn

Property and deception criminal acts have increased in Greater Geelong last year according to data released by the Crime Statistics Agency.

Overall recorded criminal offences in the area increased from 19,875 to 22,601 during 2023.

Property and deception offences increased from 10,006 to 12,644 with theft going from 5696 offences to 7161 and deception almost doubling from 885 to 1589.

Burglaryandbreak-insincreasedfrom1402 offences to 1746 and motor vehicle theft rose to 686 from 595 and stealing from a motor vehicle also increased from 2094 offences to 2483.

Stealing from a retail store increased dramatically from 854 offences to 1362.

Drug offences also increased 891 to 1151 with cultivating or manufacturing drugs and drug use and possession the biggest risers.

Public order and security offences fell from 1496 to 1086.

“The recent upturn in most key crime measures is due to increases in high volume property and deception offences categories, particularly in thefts from motor vehicles and retail stores,” CSA chief statistician Fiona Dowsley said.

“An increase in these acquisitive offence typesreflectsinpartareturntopre-pandemic trends, but also is in line with current cost of living pressures.”

Statewide the rate of recorded offences increased, up 5.6 percent to 7698.2 per 100,000 Victorians in the last 12 months and the number of offences increased 8.4 percent to 523,523.

Giving to those in need

The Give Where You Live Foundation’s Give Geelong Appeal has almost wrapped up after kicking off with Footy Gear Friday last week.

The week-long fundraiser, which finishes on March 22, has raised more than $80,000 for the Geelong community last year, and the foundation’s chief executive Bill Mithen said with the rising cost of living the community needed help now more than ever

“As the cost of living continues to rise, we’re seeing that the need in our community is also increasing,” he said.

“Our research tells us that 90 per cent of the region’s food relief agencies have experienced service demand growth over the past year. Supporting the Give Geelong Appeal will support the Foundation’s work to create a fairer community for those that need it most.”

Geelong’s only non-referral after hours service feeding those in need, The Outpost, relies heavily on Give Where You Live’s support.

The Outpost vice chair Amy Flint said her organisation was seeing a broader

cross-section of people coming through their doors recently.

“We’re seeing people that we haven’t seen before, that are now struggling to afford to put food on the table,” Ms Flint said.

“They are bringing their children, they are bringing their families. The people that come through our doors are new and emerging every day.

“Without The Outpost, people would go hungry into the night. We are the last place of refuge.”

MsFlintsaidTheOutpostcouldnotprovide that service to the community without the support of Give Where You Live.

“Over the past year The Outpost has provided almost 30,000 meals to people in need in our community,” she said.

“We rely solely on the foundation and donations to have the meals to cook, in order to have the lights turned on, the heaters warm and the urn running.”

Visit givewhereyoulive.com.au to make a donation or get involved in the appeal.

Simon and Kel Sheahan (Auswide Plumbing and Civil), The Paddock participants Justin (holding sign) and Craig (Hawks guernsey) with Give Where You Live CEO Bill Mithen at the Footy Gear Friday launch. (Supplied)

The Guide

LOCKERBIE

Seven, Sunday, 8.30pm

JIMMY DOHERTY’S NEW ZEALAND ESCAPE

SBS Food, Saturday, 7.30pm

Perhaps it’s unfair to declare that New Zealand’s sublime natural scenery eclipses the genial manner of presenter Jimmy Doherty (pictured), but in this gorgeously shot series that’s the only way it should be. Dotted with snow-frosted mountains, heavenly blue expanses and even some top-notch whiskey and buffalo milk, it’s an expedition filled with the scenic spoils of Kiwi produce and spirit. It’s a happy-go-lucky four-part travelogue, kicking off with the British presenter and farmer visiting the haven of Stewart Island, where he learns to gravity fish. A women-only deer farm and the country’s oldest distillery are also on the fun-filled itinerary.

Colin Firth is set to star in an upcoming miniseries about the 1988 disaster, but in the meantime there’s this meticulous true crime documentary about terrorist attack on Pan Am Flight 103. Using archival footage and extensive interviews with those involved, it’s a compelling and very moving examination of grief, which wraps up tonight with a movie-length instalment. Almost 40 years have passed since the terrible tragedy, but it still feels like yesterday for Margaret and Hugh Connell, who were among the first to find the plane’s wreckage in their small Scottish town. Tonight, the verdict is revealed, leaving Dr Jim Swire, the father of one of the victims, gobsmacked.

MASTERMIND AUSTRALIA

SBS, Monday, 6pm

Notorious for its tough questions, there’s no holding back on the torrent of knowledge and intellect in the new season of this quiz caper. Premiering tonight with its sixth season, along with host Marc Fennell (pictured), here’s your cheat card to get ahead of the curve… if you wish to accept a little sneaky heads up. With a fresh episode every weekday, everything from pop culture to art and politics is covered. Tonight’s return features NRL State of Origin from 1985 to 2005, Survivor:All-Stars, the human brain, and the Battle for Hill 60, but you can also brush up on Fawlty Towers ParksandRecreation, New Order, the Solomon Islands and Dutch painter Johannes Vermeer this week.

Friday, March 22

ABC

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News Mornings. 10.00 Planet America. (R) 10.30

That Pacific Sports Show. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon.

1.00 Silent Witness. (Mav, R)

2.55 The Cook And The Chef. (R)

3.25 Tenable. (PG, R)

4.10 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

PICK OF THE WEEK

ALONE AUSTRALIA

SBS, Wednesday, 7.30pm

Armed with only 10 permitted items, such as a sleeping bag, a water bottle and perhaps a toothbrush, there’s no bluffing in this extraordinary survival series. Returning with its keenly anticipated second season after hooking audiences with its Tasmanian-set debut last year, the stakes are high for the 10 competing survivalists after no doubt taking feverish notes from reigning champion Gina Chick’s audacious feat winning the 250,000 cash prize. This time they’re in New Zealand’s South Island, where being cold takes on a painful new meaning. Featuring NSW tradesman and wild game hunter Jack and Victorian wilderness adventure guide Suzan (pictured), there’s no shortage of skill and chutzpah.

(8, 9)

Food Markets: In The Belly Of The City. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Mastermind Aust. (R) 3.00 NITV News: Nula. 3.30 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 3.45

The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R)

5.10 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Destination Flavour. (R) 9.15 Singfest: The Literacy Of Music. (R) 10.10 Kew Gardens: Season By Season. 11.00

6.00

11.15

12.00

6.00

7.00

7.30 David Attenborough’s Dynasties II: Cheetah. (PGa) Narrated by Sir David Attenborough.

8.40 MOVIE: The Hitman’s Bodyguard. (2017, MA15+alv, R) A bodyguard must protect the life of a hit man who is set to testify at the International Criminal Court. Ryan Reynolds, Samuel L Jackson.

11.00 MOVIE: Judas And The Black Messiah. (2021, MA15+lv) Daniel Kaluuya.

1.20 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 2.10 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00

Postcards. (PG, R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

6.00 Deal Or No Deal.

Hosted by Grant Denyer.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news.

7.30 Ready Steady Cook.

Hosted by Miguel Maestre.

8.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Final) Irish comedian Graham Norton presents the second of two compilations of highlights from the recent series.

10.50 Albert Park All Access. (R) Commentary and analysis ahead of the race.

11.50 The Project. (R)

12.50 Fire Country. (Mmv, R)

1.40 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

10 PEACH (52,

SBS

NITV

7MATE

Crouching

Tiger, Hidden Dragon. (2000, M, Mandarin) 2.20

Flight Of The Navigator. (1986, PG) 4.00 Bye Bye

Birdie. (1963, PG) 6.05 Fried Green Tomatoes. (1991, PG) 8.30 The Color Purple. (1985, PG) 11.20

The Pianist. (2002, MA15+) 2am A Guide To Second

Date Sex. (2019, MA15+) 3.30 Run Lola Run. (1998, M, German) 5.00 Fried Green Tomatoes. (1991, PG)

Monday, March 25

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News

Mornings. 10.00 Landline. (R) 11.00 Antiques

Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon.

1.00 Australia Remastered. (R)

2.00 Parliament Question Time.

3.00 The Cook And The Chef. (R)

3.25 Tenable. (R)

4.15 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

5.10 Grand Designs. (R)

6.00 Back Roads. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30. Presented by Sarah Ferguson.

8.00 Australian Story.

Presented by Leigh Sales.

8.30 Four Corners. Investigative journalism program exposing scandals, firing debate and confronting taboos.

9.05 Media Watch. (PG)

Hosted by Paul Barry.

9.20 Q+A. (Final) Presented by Patricia Karvelas.

10.35 ABC Late News.

10.50 The Business. (R)

11.05 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (R)

11.35 Planet America. (R) 12.10 Grand Designs. (R) 1.00 Parliament Question Time. 2.00

Tenable. (R) 2.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.30 Catalyst. (PG, R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

(22)

6.00 Morning Programs. 11.10

Food Markets:

In The Belly Of The City. (PGa, R) 12.10

WorldWatch. 2.00 Druids: The Mystery Of Celtic Priests. (PGa, R) 3.00 Mastermind Aust. (R) 3.30 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 3.45 The Cook Up. (R)

4.15 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (Return)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Finding Your Roots: Family – Lost And Found. (PGa)

Hosted by Henry Louis Gates, Jr.

8.30 The 2010s: Taking It To The Streets. Takes a look at how the 2010s was a turbulent decade of social and political upheaval.

9.20 24 Hours In Emergency:

A Love Like No Other. (Ma)

A 26-year-old is rushed to St George’s.

10.15 SBS World News Late.

10.45 Christian. (Premiere, MA15+d)

11.35 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (Mav, R) 3.10 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.10 Bamay. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour Scandinavia Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6am WorldWatch.

9.30 Small Business Secrets. 10.00 The Movie Show. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Beyond Oak Island. 2.00 Insight. 3.00 WorldWatch. 5.50 Alone:

Beast. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats

8.30 Taskmaster. 9.25 Ten Year Old Tom. 10.25 The Matchmakers. 11.25 Over The Black Dot. 12.15am Scrubs. 1.35 The Wrestlers. 2.30 Dopesick Nation. 3.20 Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES

6am A

Monster In Paris. Continued. (2011, French) 6.40 To Sir,

SEVEN (6, 7)

6.00 Sunrise.

9.00 The Morning Show. (PG)

11.30 Seven Morning News.

12.00 To Be Advised.

1.30 Surveillance Oz. (PG, R)

2.00

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 Australian Idol. (Final, PGl) After all the weeks of auditions, judging and singing, the winner of the competition is crowned.

9.00 The Irrational. (Mav) Alec takes a case involving a young burn victim and arson involving a house fire that forces him to confront some trauma from his past. Phoebe and Rizwan compete for an important research grant.

11.00 The Latest: Seven News.

11.30 S.W.A.T. (Mav) A terminally ill inmate escapes custody.

12.30 MOVIE: Until We Are Safe. (2016, MA15+av, R) A woman goes on the run with her son. Beth Grant.

2.30 Home Shopping.

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Seven Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

NINE (8, 9)

TEN (5, 10)

6.00 9News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls)

It’s time for the final dinner party.

9.00 My Wife, My Abuser. (MA15+alv)

Part 1 of 2. Documents the story of Richard Spencer and the abuse he endured at the hands of his wife.

10.00 Footy Classified. (M) Footy experts tackle the AFL’s big issues.

11.00 9News Late.

11.30 Court Cam. (Mlv, R)

12.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

12.55 Pointless. (PG, R)

1.45 Hello SA. (PG)

2.15 Talking Honey. (PG, R)

2.30 Global Shop. (R)

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00

Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30

A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 9News Early.

5.30 Today.

6am Morning Programs.

9.00 The Greatest Aussie Caravan. 9.30 NBC Today. 10.30 Better Homes. 1pm Your Money & Your Life. 1.30 The Real Seachange. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 The Hotel Inspector. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better

7MATE (64, 73)

6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm Drag Racing. NDRC Top Fuel C’ship. H’lights. 2.30 Motor Racing. Supercars C’ship. Melbourne SuperSprint. H’lights. 3.30 Motor Racing. Supercars C’ship. Melbourne SuperSprint. H’lights. 4.30 Storage Wars. 5.00 American Restoration. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Outback Opal Hunters. 8.30 Adventure Gold Diggers. 9.30 Aussie Salvage Squad. 10.30 Late Programs.

9GO! (82, 93)

6am Children’s Programs.

Noon Scorpion. 3.00 Bewitched. 3.30 Full House.

4.00 Sunnyside. 4.30 The Addams Family.

5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 6.00 Raymond. 7.00 The Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Three Amigos! (1986, PG) 10.35 Seinfeld.

11.35 The Nanny. 12.05am Medium. 1.00 Below Deck Mediterranean. 2.00 I Dream Of Jeannie.

2.30 Full House. 3.00 Late Programs.

3.00 GCBC. 3.30 10 News First: Afternoon. 4.00 Neighbours. (PGa) 4.30 Bold. (PGav) 5.00 News.

6.00 Deal Or No Deal.

Hosted by Grant Denyer.

6.30 The Project. The hosts and guest panellists take a look at the day’s news, events and hot topics.

7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) As the celebrities adjust to camp life, they come face-to-face with some of the jungle’s most terrifying snakes.

9.00 FBI: Most Wanted. (Mv, R) The FBI fugitive task force team is called to Vermont after a couple growing illegal marijuana massacre their employees. Barnes begins to regret not taking any time off to bond with her new baby.

11.00 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news.

12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

10 PEACH (52, 11)

6am The Big Bang Theory. 9.30 Ready Steady Cook. 10.30 The Middle. 11.30 The Big Bang Theory. 1pm Charmed. 2.00 Two And A Half Men. 3.00 The King Of Queens. 4.00 Two And A Half Men. 4.30 Becker. 5.30 Frasier. 6.30 Neighbours. 7.00 The Big Bang Theory. 8.30 Two And A Half Men. 10.00 Rules Of Engagement. 11.00 Frasier. Midnight Shopping. 1.30 Stephen Colbert. 2.30 Late Programs.

10 BOLD (53, 12)

Order now on aussietoysonline.com.au

12677955-AV12-24

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 The 1% Club. (PGl) Hosted by Jim Jefferies.

8.30 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA. (Mal) Gordon Ramsay heads to Long Branch, New Jersey, where he comes to the aid of Max’s Bar & Grill.

9.30 First Dates UK. (Ml) Singles, including 79-year-old

Flavour Scandinavia Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

10.00

VICELAND

SBS WORLD MOVIES

6am

6.00 Deal Or No Deal.

Hosted by Grant Denyer.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news.

7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) The celebrities continue to adjust to jungle life and must now allocate chores around the campsite.

9.00 NCIS. (Mv, R) The team investigates the case of a US Navy reservist whose body was found in a car at a gun range.

10.00 NCIS: Los Angeles. (Mv, R) An ATF agent goes missing.

11.00 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news.

12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

10 PEACH (52, 11)

6am The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. 7.00 Becker. 8.00 So Help Me Todd. 9.00 The King Of Queens. 10.00 Rules Of Engagement. 11.00 Becker. Noon Frasier. 1.00 The King Of Queens. 2.00 The Big Bang Theory. 3.00 Rules Of Engagement. 4.00 Good Chef Bad Chef. 4.30 Becker. 5.30 Frasier. 6.30 Neighbours. 7.00 The Big Bang Theory. 8.30 Two And A Half Men. 10.00 Rules Of Engagement. 11.00 Late Programs.

10 BOLD (53, 12)

JAG.

SBS VICELAND (31)

(32)

SBS

(31)

(32)

Wednesday, March 27

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News

Mornings. 10.00 Four Corners. (R) 10.30

Nigella Bites. (R) 10.55 Q+A. (R) 12.00 ABC

News At Noon. 12.30 National Press Club

Address. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 2.00

Parliament Question Time. 3.00 The Cook

And The Chef. (R) 3.25 Prince Charles: Inside

The Duchy Of Cornwall. (PG, R) 4.15 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 5.15 Grand Designs. (R)

6.00 Back Roads: Port Campbell, Victoria. (PG, R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30. Presented by Sarah Ferguson.

8.00 Hard Quiz. (PG) Presented by Tom Gleeson.

8.30 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. A satirical news program exposing the humorous, absurd and downright hypocritical.

9.05 Melbourne Comedy Festival: The Gala. Charity performance on behalf of Oxfam Australia, hosted by Lizzy Hoo.

11.05 ABC Late News.

11.20 The Business. (R)

11.35 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. (R)

12.20 Rosehaven. (PG, R)

1.15 Parliament Question Time. 2.15 Grand Designs. (R) 3.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.30 Catalyst. (PG, R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6.00 WorldWatch. 9.00 Paul O’Grady: For

The Love Of Dogs. (PGa, R) 10.00 Wonderful

World Of Baby Animals. (PG, R) 10.55

Mountain Vets. (Ma) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00

Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.30 The Point:

Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 3.45

The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 World’s Most Scenic

Railway Journeys. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30

Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. Presented by Marc Fennell.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Alone Australia. (Return, Ml) Ten survivalists take on the wilderness.

8.30 Jimmy Carr’s I Literally Just Told You. (Mals) Jimmy Carr is joined by celebrity players Lorraine Kelly, Alex Horne, Aisling Bea and Asim Chaudhry.

9.25 Miniseries: Litvinenko. (Ma) Part 1 of 4. British police investigate the poisoning of a former KGB officer Alexander Litvinenko. 10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 Blinded. (MA15+s)

11.45 The Wall: The Orchard. (Return, Mals) 3.05 Mastermind Australia. (R) 4.05 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG, R) 4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6am WorldWatch.

10.00 The Movie Show. Noon WorldWatch.

12.30 Alone. 1.40 Chad. 2.05 Molly And Cara.

2.15 Abandoned. 3.10 WorldWatch. 5.50 The UnXplained. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 Jamie Lee Curtis: Hollywood Call Of Freedom. 9.30 Senses Of Cinema. 11.15 MOVIE: Miami Connection. (1987, MA15+) 12.45am Late Programs.

6am

Welcome Home, Roxy Carmichael. Continued. (1990,

SEVEN (6, 7)

Morning Show. (PG)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 The 1% Club UK. (Premiere, PG) Hosted by Lee Mack.

8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Hosts Mick Molloy, Sam Pang and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL.

9.30 Talking Footy. A look at the week’s AFL news, hosted by Trent Cotchin, Joel Selwood and Mitch Cleary.

10.30 The Latest: Seven News.

11.00 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera. (PG) Footage of headline-grabbing moments.

12.15 Parenthood. (Ma, R)

1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R)

2.00 Home Shopping.

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Seven Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6am Morning Programs.

7.30 Room For Improvement. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Harry’s Practice. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 My Impossible House. 3.30 Harry’s

NINE (8, 9)

6.00 9News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Gordon Ramsay’s Food Stars. (Ml) Hosted by Gordon Ramsay and Janine Allis.

9.00 Under Investigation. (Mv)

Liz Hayes and her team of experts investigate the shooting of Kumanjayi Walker by Constable Zachary Rolfe.

10.00 Footy Classified. (M) Footy experts tackle the AFL’s big issues.

11.00 9News Late.

11.30 The Equalizer. (MA15+av, R)

12.20 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.10 Pointless. (PG, R)

2.05 Destination WA.

2.30 Global Shop. (R)

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)

4.30 A Current Affair. (R)

5.00 9News Early. 5.30 Today.

9GO! (82, 93)

6.00

6.00

6.00

7.35 Bettany Hughes: Treasures of Bulgaria. (PGa) Bettany Hughes explores Bulgaria.

8.30 Stanley Tucci: Searching

For Italy: London. Stanley Tucci explores how Italian immigration has transformed London’s food scene.

9.20 The Vanishing Triangle. (Malsv) Lisa is given a terrible choice by the killer who is making her decide who to save, Susan or Mandy.

11.40

3.30

12.20

4.30

Round 3. Brisbane Lions

Collingwood. From the Gabba, Brisbane.

10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews taking a look back at all the action from the game.

11.00 The Latest: Seven News.

11.30 The Amazing Race. (PG, R)

The teams of two continue their race around the Americas for the chance to win $1 million.

1.00 Fortitude. (MA15+av, R)

The police continue their investigation and make several discoveries with worrying implications.

2.00 Home Shopping.

4.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs.

5.00

6am

11.20

11.50

R) 12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.35 Pointless. (PG, R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 9News Early. 5.30 Today.

TEN (5, 10)

(PGlm, R) 12.00 10 News First: Midday. 1.00 Ent. Tonight. 1.30 To Be Advised. 3.00 GCBC. 3.30 10 News First: Afternoon.

4.00 Neighbours. (PGa) 4.30 Bold. (PGav) 5.00 News.

6.00 Deal Or No Deal.

Hosted by Grant Denyer.

6.30 The Project. The hosts and guest panellists take a look at the day’s news, events and hot topics.

7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) The celebrities face the ultimate test of the jungle, all in the hope of winning money for their chosen charity.

9.00 FBI: International. (Mav) The team delves into a case involving an American who killed an elderly German man in Berlin who appears to have been a covert asset of the ruthless Stasi in East Germany during the Cold War.

11.00 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news.

12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.30 CBS Mornings.

6am The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. 7.00 Becker. 8.00 Dr Phil. 9.00 The Middle. 10.00 Rules Of Engagement. 11.00 Becker. Noon Frasier. 1.00 NBL Slam.

10 BOLD (53, 12)

9.30 Jake And The

1.30

In

10.30 JAG.

2.30 Jake And The Fatman. 3.30 Diagnosis Murder. 5.30 JAG. 7.30 Bull. 8.30 NCIS. 9.25 Hawaii Five-0. 10.20 NCIS: Hawai’i. 12.15am Home Shopping. 2.15 Diagnosis Murder. 4.05 JAG.

6.00 Deal Or No Deal.

Hosted by Grant Denyer.

6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news.

7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) As the competition continues, the celebrities receive their luxury goods from home.

9.00 Gogglebox Australia. TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows.

10.00 Law & Order: SVU. (Mav, R) Rollins struggles on her return to work.

11.00 Blue Bloods. (Ma, R) Baez and her daughter are targeted.

12.00 The Project. (R)

1.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

10 BOLD (53, 12)

6am Home Shopping. 8.00 Healthy Homes Australia. 8.30 Diagnosis

9.30 Jake And

10.30 JAG. 12.30pm In The Dark. 2.30 Jake And The Fatman. 3.30 Diagnosis Murder. 5.30 JAG. 7.30 Bull. 8.30 NCIS. 9.25 NCIS: New Orleans. 10.20 Evil. 11.15 Bull. 12.15am Home Shopping. 2.15 Diagnosis Murder. 4.05 JAG.

It’s all about Ocean Alley

By Matt Hewson

Psychedelic surf rockers Ocean Alley seem to be on an unstoppable upward trajectory; for the past decade the band has achieved one success after another.

From winning 2018’s Hottest 100 with their hypnotic single Confidence (also certified six-times platinum) to sellout international tours, Ocean Alley’s last two studio albums both reached number three on the Australian charts, catapulting them into the highest echelons of the domestic music industry.

But guitarist Mitch Galbraith said since forming in 2011 the band had always focused on making music and taking it one step at a time, rather than chasing fame and trying to make it big.

“We always had small goals; when we first started jamming in the shed we just wanted to go play the pubs down the road,” he said.

“And it’s good, we’ve just stuck at it together.

We always wanted to progress what we’ve been doing, but no, we definitely didn’t have this grandiose plan of doing what we’re doing now.”

Mitch, his brother Lachlan Galbraith (keyboard, vocals) and frontman Baden Donegal all attended the same high school in Collaroy in northern Sydney, where they all played music together.

“And the other bunch we knew from surfing around the Northern Beaches - Mona Vale, Newport – so we were hanging out years before we started playing music together,” Mitch said.

“There were three or four years there before we had a manager or any kind of infrastructure around the band, so we were doing it all ourselves.

“Andwe’vemanagedtokeepourrelationship strong, it’s better than ever, and that’s the reason why we can still tour so hard, I think.”

Ocean Alley is about to embark on a stint of interstate touring, including headlining at Here Comes the Sun festival at Torquay, before

heading off for a 19-date, month-long North American tour in June and a similar length European tour in September.

Throughitall,Mitchsaidthegoaloftheband had remained the same: to give their audiences a good time.

“It’s the same experience we were trying to provide to our friends and families that were putting up with us playing in the backyard shed and our friends that watched us play at Mona Vale pub,” he said.

“We grew up with plenty of contemporaries around that area, like Lime Cordiale, who we still tour with today, and the Ruminaters, who are now known as Le Shiv.

“We all grew up going to house parties and it was just the most fun we could possibly imagine. That’s what we lived for when we were younger and now we get to do it on a much bigger scale.”

Ocean Alley headlineHereComesthe Sun at Torquay Common on Saturday, March 30.

Stunning tribute to a rock diva

Through his 35-year career, dancer and drag performer Fabio Cattafi has performed with some of the biggest names in showbiz, but to him Tina Turner has always been, simply, the best.

For nearly all of his career Cattafi has paid homage to the Queen of Rock n’ Roll through his drag tribute extravaganza A Night With Tina, which he brings to the Potato Shed next month.

“The first time was 17; I did it for a gay dance partyatFestivalHallfor10,000people,”Cattafi said.

“I had eight dancers, there were about a hundred volunteers, it was a massive show. So I’ve done it all my life, on and off.

“The first time I saw her on TV, what stood out to me was her energy, her uniqueness and her power. It was fabulous, I loved it.”

Throughout his dancing career Cattafi has worked with Disney and the Australian Opera, performed on many Australian television shows, and has theatre credits with shows such as Happy Days and the Wizard of Oz.

He said performing, especially as Tina, was the thing that most made him feel alive.

“Tina’s so passionate and full-on, and I love her music, so when I’m Tina I can be… this totally extroverted, different person,” he said.

“It’s also connecting with the audience and uplifting them. Having that moment of understandingthatit’snotreallyaboutyouasa performer, it’s about the audience and making them feel good.

“When they’re up dancing, doing the Nut Bush and Proud Mary, I think it’s joyous for them.”

The two-hour tribute chronicles Turner’s

musical life, taking the audience on a journey through the decades of her career in a high-energy visual spectacular.

“Tina Turner has been a massive inspiration for me,” Cattafi said.

“I’m a massive fan and I have taken that and turned it into a show. There’s myself, there are

six dancers, it’s full production.

“It’s very fast-paced too, there are no lulls in the show, it’s just go, go, go.”

A Night With Tina

Friday, April 5.

Selve: Loud, fun and weird

Gold Coast alt rock band Selve bring their dynamic brand of performance to Geelong this weekend when they hit the Barwon Club for a late Sunday session.

The First Nations-led six-piece, who incorporate elements of glam, psych, rock and funk into a unique package, have embarked on their first national tour following the release of their debut album Red Desert Dream in September last year.

Speaking from Sydney on Thursday ahead of flying to Melbourne for the two Victorian shows of the tour, frontman Loki Liddle (Jabirr Jabirr) said the narrative focus of the band drove much of their creative output.

“(We want) to tell stories and play awesome music… all of the songs are always grounded in storytelling,” Liddle said.“Ithinktheintentionwasalwaysfor all the members to have a lot of free reign over their own creative parts. Everyone gets to have full domain over their own instrument and what it wants to be.

“And I think it’s really fun to have intricate lyricism and a big, loud sound as well.

“The main intention is for everyone in the band to be able to feel like they’re doing what they love, that they have free reign to be passionate about their instrument,and I think if we can give everyone that space, then awesome stuff is naturally going to come out.”

Formed in 2019, Selve has had a rapid rise over the past four and a half years, playing festivals such as Woodford Folk Festival, BLAK DAY OUT, Springtime Festival and SXSW Sydney, sharing the stage with acts such as Jessica Mauboy, Archie Roache, Matt Corby and Electric Fields.

Their releases (three EPs in addition to Red Desert Dream) all tend to the concept-based process of creation; their two EPs The Neon Parable of the Pink Hotel Parts 1 & 2 were born out of a residency at the actual Pink Hotel in Coolangatta, while Red Desert Dream is a full-length visual album directed by Alethea Beetson (Kabi Kabi/ Gubbi Gubbi and Wiradjuri).

Liddle said punters could expect a “big, fantastic experience” at the Barwon Club.

“There’ll be a lot of loudness, a lot of fun, and a lot of weirdness as well, but in the most playful ways,” he said. “I think everyone can just expect to have a really memorable time.”

Selve is at the Barwon Club on Sunday, March 24. Doors open at 5pm.

Matt Hewson

comes to the Potato Shed on

Matt Hewson

Fabio Cattafi stars in A Night With Tina. (Supplied)

Geelong hosts rowing regatta

The 2024 Head of the Schoolgirls rowing regatta was held on the Barwon River in Geelong on the weekend and Independent photographer Ivan Kemp was there to capture some of the action.

Melbourne Girls Grammar coxed quad sculls team before their final.

Genazzano wins the coxed quad sculls final.

Left: St Catherine supporters Liz and Henen. Centre: Claudia Lucci, Daisy and Chloe Bonnet, Charlie Nicolaci and Phoebe Berry. Right: Nicole White and Mark Joyner.

Left: Geelong College rowers Lily Carmody, Luella Pearson, Alice Ashby and Phoebe Johnston. Above: Carey Grammar supporters Lisa Patroni and Sharleen Hutchison. Above right: Geelong Grammar crosses the line to win the B Final of the eights. Below: Loreto supporters Kristin O’Brien, James, Gabriella, Anthony Ellis and Sophia Bobeff. Below right: Paula a’Beckett, Esther McRae and Sam a’Beckett.

Left: Genazzano coxed quad sculls team celebrates their win. Right: Corowa wins the coxed quad sculls final. (PIctures: Ivan Kemp) 394819

MY GEELONG

Geelong’s Barb Speldewinde is a long-standing and dedicated Fight Cancer Foundation volunteer. She works closely with community members through roles at the foundation’s Geelong West recycle shop and Footy Colours Day fundraiser. Barb speaks with Independent’s Jena Carr about her love for Geelong and the importance of volunteering.

What is your connection to Geelong?

I came down in 1976 because my husband was working here. He worked here for about seven years, and we lived in Donvale. He was travelling down here by train, and our two young kids never saw him because he worked six days a week, so moving was feasible.

What do you like about where you live?

The closeness of the beaches, as I love the beach and the sea. In ’76, it was very much a country town where everybody knew everybody except me.

That felt isolating to start with, so it meant I had to get involved in various activities that arose.

What is something people may not know about you?

I was a trained nurse, and when I came here, I couldn’t get a job because Geelong trainees seemed to be the accepted thing, so that was a bit of a problem.

Then, one of the girls in the Grovedale West Primary School canteen (where she volunteered) asked me if I wanted to do her shift at one of the nursing homes.

So, I took that offer, and it was on Saturday and Sunday afternoon. From there, I went on to do nights and afternoons and almost did a full-time thing.

I also went to Deakin and did a double major in art history, which took me about seven years.

What do you like about your role with Fight Cancer Foundation?

It’s all been great. I love the schools because you get to talk to kids and some of those little

children are amazing. I’m also always satisfied when the (fundraising) dollar figures are great.

There were so many people that I knew and kids that I had served at the canteen at Grovedale West who were dying from various forms of cancer, and it was horrific.

Kids were developing cancers at a high rate and dying. I saw the devastation within families as they lost a child and marriages broke up, as you can never replace a child.

We found that kids, if they got leukaemia, weredroppingoutofschoolbecausetreatment time could be up to two years.

If you’re having treatment for the last two years of your schooling life and you’ve missed it, your friends have all moved on, and you have to go back to school, you’re not going to do it.

They then decided to hold something called Footy Colours Day to raise money to supply education for these children of all ages while they were being treated.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

So many families have lost a child, and it’s really sad when you think about the devastation it causes within that family.

Then, if you’ve got a child that has to go to Melbourne to be treated, you’ve got huge expenses, and the bills keep coming through the door regardless.

I’ve been given many awards, and I’m embarrassed when I get them. It’s not about me; it’s about helping other people.

Visitfightcancer.org.auformoreinformation about the Fight Cancer Foundation or to donate. Help is available through Lifeline’s crisis support service on 13 11 14.

Barb Speldewinde is a dedicated community member and Fight Cancer Foundation volunteer. (Jena Carr) 396794_02

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Geelong Independent Community Calendar, 1/47 Pakington Street, Geelong West, 3218, or email to editorial@geelongindependent.com.au. Deadline for copy and announcements is 5pm Tuesday.

Lions

Evening of interest and information, Bellarine Living & Learning Centre, 20 Wooden Court, Whittington, Monday March 25, 7.30pm. Discuss how your local Lions club can help you and the community.

■ John, 0427 354 767

Easter stall

Geelong Royal Children’s Hospital Easter stall, Thursday March 28, 9am-2pm, at Bellevue Avenue, Highton Village.

Book sale

Friday April 5 and Saturday April 6, Uniting Barwon Grovedale site (272 Torquay Road, corner Reserve and Torquay Roads), 10am-2pm. All books are only $1 and children’s books 50 cents.

Ballroom dance

Leopold Hall, 805-809 Bellarine Highway on Saturday, March 23. Admission $10 including supper, 7.30-11pm, music Charles. Sunday March 10, 2pm-4pm, music Charles.

■ 0400 500 402

PlayLinks

Music and art playgroup where babies, toddlers and preschoolers learn together with their parent/carer. Wednesdays St Thomas Aquinas Primary School, Norlane. Free if living in 3214 postcode, bookings essential.

■ info@bluebirdfoundationinc.org.au

GROW Australia

Community organisation offering practical steps and peer support to help recover and maintain mental health through free face to face and online groups. Mondays 7pm, 195 Ormond Road, East Geelong, Fridays 12.45pm, Vines Road Community Centre, Hamlyn Heights, Zoom group 7pm Tuesdays.

■ grow.org.au, or 1800 558 268

Combined Probus Belmont Central

The Combined Probus Club of Belmont Central meets at 10am on the second Wednesday of each month at Waurn Ponds Hotel. Visitors welcome.

■ Secretary, 0417 555 547

Grovedale Seniors

Indoor bowls Monday 1-3pm; gentle exercise Tuesday 9-9.45am; cards (Euchre)

Tuesday 1-3pm; bingo Thursday 1-3pm. Grovedale Community Hub, 45 Heyers Road.

■ Julie, 0419 549 521

Bellbrae Singing for Fun

Come to one session or come to them all. Bellbrae Hall, 6-8pm May 10, September 13 and November 8. Bring a friend for free for the first time, admission $10.

■ Michele, 0425 849 779

Laughter Club Geelong

Saturdays 9am, Eastern Beach in front of the swimming enclosure. 30-minutes free laughter yoga done standing or seated.

■ 0418 521 265

Drysdale Day VIEW

Fourth Friday of each month at Portarlington Golf Club for lunch.

■ Margaret, 0431 636 090

Geelong Day VIEW

First Monday monthly from 11am at Eastern Hub, East Geelong. ■ geelongdayview@gmail.com

Leopold VIEW

Second Tuesday of each month at Leopold Sportsmans’ Club at 10.30am.

Manifold Heights and Geelong Korean Baptist Church service, cnr Volum Street and Shannon Avenue, Manifold Heights. Easter Sunday March 31, 10am, followed by a combined shared lunch. ■ Yvonne 5278 2503, or

■ leopold.viewclub@gmail com

Geelong Evening VIEW

Third Monday of the month, 6pm at Waurn Ponds Hotel.

■ Von, 0414 930 259, or geelongeveningview@gmail.com

Lions Club International

Enjoy meeting great people and help out your community at the same time. Clubs all over Geelong & District – see which one is right for you.

■ Les, 0428 466 446

Grovedale Marshall Probus

Second Thursday of the month,10am at The Grovedale Hub, 45 Heyers Road, Grovedale.

■ Anne, 0425 356 973

Ocean Grove Men’s Probus

First Monday of each month, 10am, except January, at Surf Life Saving Club.

■ Barry, 0409 161 129

Stamps

Geelong Philatelic Society Inc meets 7pm

first Saturday of the month at Virginia Todd Community Hall, 9-15 Clarence Street, Geelong West and 1pm third Monday of the month at Belmont Library, 163 High Street, Belmont.

■ Julie, 0438 270 549

Barefoot bowls

Bareena Bowling Club, Newtown, Friday twilight starting 6pm. $15 covers bowls and BBQ. Drinks at Crackerjack bar prices.

■ John, 0419 563 199

Grovedale East Ladies Probus

Fourth Monday of each month, 10am, Waurn Ponds Hotel.

■ Sally Nelson, 0402 450 610, or nelsonsally59@gmail.com

Belmont Central Combined Probus

Second Wednesday of each month, 10am, Waurn Ponds Hotel.

■ 0417 555 547

Waurn Ponds Combined Probus

Fourth Wednesday of the month, 10am. Maximum 100 members.

■ probussouthpacific.org/microsites/waurn

Combined Probus Geelong East

The Combined Probus Club of Geelong East meets every third Monday of the month, 10am, East Geelong Uniting

Church, corner Boundary and Ormond Roads.

■ Malcolm, 0419 376 380

Geelong Scout Heritage Centre Meets third Sunday of the month, 56 Russell Street, Newtown, 10am-3pm.

■ 0419 591 432, or geelong.heritage@scoutsvictoria.com.au

Belmont Combined Probus

First Monday of the month, 9.30am, Geelong RSL Function Room, 50 Barwon Heads Road. New members and visitors welcome

■ Pam, 0408 520 931, or leave a message on 5243 4042

Barwon Valley Belmont Probus

First Thursday of the month, 10am, Waurn Ponds Hotel.

■ Membership officer, 0407 333 263, or bobstafford@ozemail.com.au

Sports

Badminton: Corio Leisuretime Centre, Mondays 12.30-2.30pm. Beginners welcome.

Netball: YMCA Riversdale Road, Monday and Wednesday mornings, Thursday nights. Walking netball also played. Umpire training available.

■ Maureen, 0429 397 015

Arts National Geelong Welcomes guests and members to monthly lecture series. Details of lecture topics, lecturers and venues at artsnational.au

Hamlyn Heights Probus

Second Thursday of the month, 10am, Geelong Cement Bowls Club, 200 McCurdy Road, Herne Hill.

■ Noel, 0425 706 339

Geelong Central Probus

Third Friday of the month, 9.45am, Geelong RSL.

■ geelcentprob@gmail.com

Newcomb Probus

Third Wednesday of each month, 10am, East Geelong Uniting Church, corner Boundary and Ormond Roads.

■ Gary, 0407 320 735

Polish language for kids

Fortnightly Polish language classes for kids aged 7-11 at one of Geelong’s libraries.

■ Dorota, 5224 1105

Music for preschoolers

Mainly Music is a music and movement program for babies to preschoolers at St Albans-St Andrews Uniting Church, 276 Wilsons Road, Whittington, Tuesdays 10am during school terms.

■ Rhonda, 0437 241 345

Rostrum meets

Geelong Rostrum Public Speaking Club Inc meets each Monday.

■ Andrew, 0408 369 446, or Jan, 0407 296 958

Adfas Geelong

Art lectures each month, morning and evening, Newcomb Hall, Wilsons Road.

■ adfas.org.au, or geelong@adfas.org.au

Cards

Wanted: card sharp partners to play the game of Bolivia on Thursday evenings. For venue email Ingrid.

■ griddlepop@hotmail.com

Scrabble club

Christ Church hall, corner Moorabool and McKillop Streets, 1pm Saturdays. Beginners to experts welcome.

■ Pauline, 0429 829 773, or John, 0434 142 282

Games Scrabble, chess, board games or cards. Thursdays 2pm-4.30pm, All Saints’ Parish Hall, Newtown. Afternoon tea provided.

■ Dinah, 0418 547 753

Book club

Leopold CAE book club meets second Tuesday of each month 6.30pm.

■ Shirley, 0488 055 969

Sing Australia Geelong Choir Wednesdays 7.30-9.30pm at Senior Citizens Centre, 52 Thomson Street, Belmont. No auditions needed.

■ Mary, 0419 278 456

Mindfulness & meditation

Wednesdays 11am at U3A Geelong, Thursdays 10am, U3A Torquay.

■ Jean, 5264 7484

Ocean Grove Seniors

Ocean Grove Seniors play 500 every Thursday at 1.15pm. Cost $20 annually and coffee included. 102 The Terrace, Ocean Grove.

■ Lyn, 5256 2540

Scribes Writers Group

South Barwon Community Centre, Mondays 9.30am-noon. Welcoming new members who wish to refine their skills.

■ geelongscribeswriters@gmail.com, or 5243 8388

Kids’ church Group lessons for children aged three to six years; 7-10 years; and 10+ years at St Paul’s Anglican Church Hall, 171a Latrobe Terrace, Geelong, first Sunday of the month during school term, 10.30-11.30am.

■ Suzie, 0402 963 855, or Althea, 0403 005 449

Geelong Dragon Boat Club Paddle at Barwon River. Training Wednesdays 5pm, Saturdays 9am. Free one-month trial.

■ revolutionise.com.au/geelongdragons

Zonta Club of Geelong Meets monthly for dinner first Wednesday of the month between February and December at 6.30pm for a 6.45pm start. RSVP essential.

■ zontageelong.org.au or zontaclubgeelong@yahoo.com.au

Easter service

Bernard 0466 820 420

Ford lovers flocked to Geelong with more than 1500 vehicles on display at the All Ford Day on March 17. Independent photographer Ivan Kemp was there.

1/ Aidan Clancy with his restored Ford XW GT, which has been owned by the family since 1970. 2/ Gary Beith, owner of the Ford GT 40. 3/ Johnny Murgana and Marissa Carter with his 2004 Ford XR6 ute. 4/ Scott Wiggett checking the engine of his Ford XD.

Steve Gerrard inside his Ford Mustang GT.

Ford GT

7/ Alissa Larsen admiring the Ford Lincoln. 8/ Beckham Taylor, James Gath, Deniz Barlas and Matt McKnight relaxing behind Deniz’s Ford FG Turbo (2014).

Ford Cobra. 10/ Maddy Elms with a Ford Thunderbird. 11/ Deniz Barlas inside his 2014 Ford FG Turbo. 12/ Will Davison’s Ford Mustang race car. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 389447

No.

To

each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

ACROSS

1 Australian desert (7)

5 Spectacles (7)

9 Filmed information (11)

10 Miriti palm (3)

11 Pot belly (6)

12 Hinged (7)

14 Passionate (4)

15 Attraction (10)

17 Perspicacious (10)

19 Male elephant (4)

20 Electromotive force (7)

22 Flippancy (6)

25 Fall behind (3)

26 Unwanted (11)

28 Defecate (7)

29 Equal; even – (7)

DOWN

1 Team (4)

2 Car-fixers (9)

3 Boy’s name (5)

4 Uncaringness (11)

5 Indian state (3)

6 Whenever (7)

7 Avoid (5)

8 Absence of motion (10)

12 Reporters (11)

13 American theatrical/musical institution (10)

16 Impartial (9)

18 Rubbing out (7)

21 Sound reasoning (5)

23 Piece of poetry (5)

24 Scottish loch (4)

27 Pass away (3)

DECODER

No. 177

WORDFIT

3 LETTERS

4 LETTERS AYES

9-LETTER WORD

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

Today’s Aim:

15 words:

No. 177

1 Which festive song is the No.1 best selling single of all time?

2 The Bellagio, MGM Grand and Mirage casinos feature in which Steven Soderbergh film?

3 How many days were in an ancient Roman week?

4 What does it mean to be a polyglot?

5 Which of Jane Austen’s books was originally titled FirstImpressions?

6 Who were the winners of the first ever soccer World Cup in 1930?

7 What is the term ‘hi-fi’ short for?

8 For which supporting role was Cate Blanchett (pictured) awarded her first Academy Award?

9 In Norse mythology, Bragi is the god of what?

10 Which land mammal has the most powerful bite?

No. 177

No. 177

MOTOR

Lexus Luxury lives up to name

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

Effectively an upmarket version of the Toyota LandCruiser, the Lexus LX large premium SUV has been around since the mid-1990s.

The latest (fourth generation) LX arrived here at the end of 2021 shortly after the new LC300. It comes with petrol or diesel power, four equipment variants, three seating options and a host of new safety and tech features.

ThefourvariantsarebaseLX,SportsLuxury, F Sport, and Ultra Luxury. The first three are available with either petrol or diesel engines, the Ultra Luxury is petrol only.

Prices range from $151,561 for an LX500d seven-seaterthroughto$213,561fortheLX600 Ultra Luxury.

Styling

There’s not a lot of scope for adventurous styling in large 4WD/SUVs such as the LandCruiser, Nissan Patrol or Lexus LX, so much of the work on differentiating between them goes into the grille.

In the case of the LX the designers certainly haven’t pulled any punches. The well-established Lexus spindle grille is huge and dominates the front of the vehicle.

In the entry-level LX, Sports Luxury and UltraLuxuryvariantsitfeaturessevenbrushed chrome horizontal bars. To our eyes such so muchchromeinsuchalargegrilledoesn’tlook like it belongs in a premium luxury vehicle such as this. We much prefer the more subtle black mesh fill used in the F Sport models. Other we talked to had the opposite opinion so it’s very much down to personal taste.

In profile there’s little to distinguish the LX from its LandCruiser sibling. The base LX models rolls on 20-inch alloy wheels; the higher-specvariantsallget22-incherstogether with a standard moonroof.

The rear features an eye-catching full-width LED light bar with LED taillights.

Interior

The LX comes with the choice of four, five or seven seats depending on the grade. Our test car was the flagship Ultra Luxury and the name says it all. With just two individual rear seats, it’s clearly aimed more at the corporate rather than the family market.

The rear occupants are seated in twin captain’s chairs with 48-degree reclining; massage function; deluxe headrests; passenger-side ottoman, and exclusive quilted upholstery. The central touchscreen between the rear seats allows passengers to control the seats as well as the rear climate control.

Unusually, although the rear seats can be reclined, they do not have length adjustment and legroom can be restricted for taller passengers. The problem can be alleviated, subject to the agreement from front seat occupants, with the seat tilt mechanism moving the front seats forward.

Safety

Standard safety features across the LX range include 10 airbags; autonomous emergency braking including for pedestrians and cyclists; active traction control; dynamic radar cruise control; lane departure warning and correction; intersection turn assist; road speed sign assist; downhill assist control; hill start assist; crawl control; front and rear parking sensors and support brake; reversing camera with washer; pre-collision safety system with emergency steering assist; multi-terrain select and monitor; blind spot monitoring; rear cross traffic alert; adaptive high-beam System; 360-degree camera; and tyre pressure warning.

Engines/transmissions

The previous V8 petrol and diesel engines are gone, replaced by the 3.3-litre twin-turbo V6 diesel, as used in the LandCruiser, but also with the option of a new 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 petrol.

Both engines have smaller capacities than their superseded equivalents but with

significantly more power and torque but lower fuel consumption. Specifically, the petrol unit petrol V6 puts out 305kW at 5200rpm and 650Nm from 2000-3600rpm; while the diesel produces 227kW of power and 700Nm of torque from 1600-2600rpm.

Both engines are paired to a 10-speed torque converter automatic transmission.

Infotainment

Three screens come into play for the LX. In the centre console There’s a 12.3-inch colour touchscreen for infotainment features including satellite navigation and smartphone mirroringofwiredAppleCarPlayandAndroid Auto.

Directly below there is a 7.0-inch display that controls the off-road settings as well as air conditioning. In front of the driver is an 8.0-inch LCD screen with normal dashboard information.

There are USB-A and USB-C sockets below the centre console as well as in the rear where there is also a HDMI input. There is a wireless phone charger located in the rear armrest / control panel with two more USB-C ports inside the armrest.

There are touchscreens mounted to the back of the front seats which allow rear passengers

to access AM, FM and digital audio as well as their choice of entertainment through either USB or HDMI using wireless headphones.

Audiophiles will be blown away by the premium Mark Levinson Reference sound system with, believe it or not, 25 speakers.

Driving

Getting into and out of the big LX is a bit of a climb but is helped by side steps, interior grab handles and height-adjustable suspension which enables the vehicle to be lowered by 27mm. Then, depending on the drive mode selected, it can be raised to a maximum of 103mm.

The push-button start / stop button has been enhanced and now comes with a fingerprint sensor for added security. It can cater for up to 10 different drivers

LikeitsLandCruisercousinthesheerbulkof the Lexus LX doesn‘t really suit it to the urban environment. Having said that the range of cameras, sensors and safety features such as rear cross traffic alert and lane departure warning should keep most drivers out of trouble.

The turning circle of 12.8 metres is impressively tight for such a vehicle of its size.

Once out into open territory the LX600 was

a delight to drive. It’s smooth, comfortable, refined and powerful with impressively low noise levels. No matter what the road surface the big Japanese 4WD simply loped over it with never a sign of it being unsettled.

The ride is relatively firm which will satisfy most Australian drivers.

The 10-speed gearbox is seamless and almost seems able to anticipate when changes are required.

During our night drive we were able to test the Lexus BladeScan system which adjusts the high beam on the LED headlights to provide optimum lighting without affecting other drivers. Once we got used to the blue high beamlightfluctuatingonandoffonthedriver’s display screen, we found it worked well.

The big Lexus is a thirsty beast with fuel consumption listed at 12.1 litres per 100 kilometres. We averaged 12.9 L/100km during our test.

Summing up

Giventhatitwasourtestcar,we’vedeliberately concentrated on the LX600 Ultra Luxury in this review but will be getting into the family-oriented seven-seat LX500d shortly and will take it out onto our favourite off-road route.

Large spindle grille is the standout feature of the Lexus LX. (Pictures: Supplied)

Dempsey ‘a complete player’, says Scott

Geelong coach Chris Scott is wary of heaping too much praise on emerging star Ollie Dempsey.

But, understandably, he finds it hard to contain his excitement.

Even more so after the 21-year-old’s outstanding three-goal performance in the Cats’ tense eight-point win over St Kilda on Saturday night.

In his eighth AFL game, Dempsey tallied 15 disposals, nine score involvements, two goal assists and two contested marks to help sway a tight contest Geelong’s way.

“We know what he’s capable of ... I hesitate to

say this – I want to say he’s a complete player,” Scott said. “He doesn’t have too many parts of his game where you look at him and think you’ve really got to get that up to AFL standard.”

A former basketball and volleyball player, Dempsey was selected by Geelong in the 2022 rookie draft after a handful of games with Old Carey amateurs.

The 185cm-tall forward played seven AFL gamesinhisfirsttwoseasonsandlooksprimed for a much bigger role this year as Geelong seek to climb back into premiership contention.

“He’s one of those guys that looks to me like

he wants the moment,“ Scott said. “It’s easy to try to coach players and help them to be that kind of guy, but most of the time it’s innate.

“He missed a couple of shots that he’ll ruminate on, but he shouldn’t because as time goes on he’s going to be one of those guys that finishes his work really nicely.”

Dempsey wasn’t the only inexperienced Cat who impressed Scott in the win over St Kilda.

While veteran Patrick Dangerfield starred and kicked the match-winning goal, younger teammates Max Holmes, Tanner Bruhn and Jhye Clark were also influential.

Clarksufferedafootinjuryondebutlastyear

Pointy end of the season

LOCAL TENNIS

Donna Schoenmaekers

Tennis Geelong’s Senior Pennant is getting to the pointy end of the season with all teams this week fighting for a spot in next week’s grand finals.

Minor Premiers Barwon Heads (1 Men) showed they will be tough to beat coming into good form, getting over Ocean Grove Red six sets to love, while Waurn Ponds had a much closertusslewithWesternHeightsUnitingjust getting home by four games.

Ocean Grove fared better in its two other finals with the 3 Men’s team winning through 4-2 over Drysdale, and 3 Open coming from fourth to book their spot in next week’s final with a three rubbers to one victory over Moolap.

Moolap had mixed fortunes in their three other finals with the minor premiers in 4 Open winning through against Hamlyn Park three rubbers to one and 5 Mixed having a day out with a 6-0 win over Grovedale Yellow, but 3 Mixed were defeated by Clifton Springs/ Drysdale 5-1.

Highton split their day winning two of four finals, with their White team in 6 Open having one of the best wins of the day, four rubbers to love over Wandana Heights and one of the closest with 1 Mixed getting over minor premiers Grovedale Black by only three games. The 2 Mixed didn’t fare so well with a 4-2 loss to Grovedale, while 1 Open also went down to Grovedale.

Grovedale had the most matches this week with six in total, and in the remaining two finals went down to Clifton Springs Blue in 4 Mixed,whilein5Opentheclubhadawinover Wandana Heights White three rubbers to one.

Surfcoast participated in four finals, but only managed to advance in 6 Open when Jan

Juc beat Barwon Heads three rubbers to one. Drysdale managed to get the best of 6 Mixed witha5-1winoverBellbrae,andBannockburn took their second win for the season over Bellbrae in 2 Men.

The closest result in Open this week went to Torquay and Wandana Heights in Section 2 with the teams tied on rubbers and sets, but Wandana winning by two games.

Waurn Ponds also had a close call in their 4 Open match against All Saints with the teams level on rubbers, but the Ponds ahead by two sets and one game, while the one grudge match between Lara White and Blue also produced a tie on rubbers, but Blue ahead by two sets and six games.

Complete surprise: Collings called up to Cats

Bridie Collings was taken completely by surprise when she learnt she’d earned a spot on Geelong’s list for the 2024 VFLW season.

Having spent the last few months in Geelong training with the squad, the 18-year-old was named as an emergency in the Cats’ pre-season match against the Western Bulldogs on March 11.

She was sitting on the bench tying up her boot laces when she was approached by a member of staff who asked to speak with her in private.

“My heart was racing, I was like ‘oh my god this is crazy’,” she said. “It was quite unexpected.”

It may be a long way from Gisborne to Geelong, but Collings is used to the area, as she would often visit the Surf Coast on holidays with her family throughout her childhood.

But unlike a summer vacation, Collings has been hard at work attempting to prove herself at the profession level.

The former Calder Cannons vice-captain

had just a short break after the Coates Talent League wrapped up before she was asked to attend Cats training.

“Basically went straight into training again after resting for about two or three weeks,” she said. “I showed up from day one because I wanted to make a name for myself.”

The opportunity at the Cats marks a new chapter for Collings, who spent the last three seasons developing her skills at the Cannons.

In that time she relished the opportunity to impart knowledge onto some of her younger teammates and was a reliable asset in the midfield.

“I loved it, to be honest I think it developed me so much as a player but it’s also great to be on to bigger and better things,” she said.

“I loved being a role model for younger kids.

I’ve always looked up to people older than me, so I like the idea of being someone who is setting an example.”

Since starting her footballing journey at the Gisborne Rookies, Collings has always been

butshowcasedhistalentina13-disposalreturn against the Saints.

“Jhye Clark was really good,” Scott said. “He’s played one game but only played 20 minutes in that game before he got hurt, so this was really his first full game of AFL football.

“He looked like he belonged out there.”

A first-round draft pick in 2022, Clark has signed a one-year contract extension that ties him to Geelong until at least the end of 2026.

Teammates Zach Guthrie and Oisin Mullin have also extended by 12 months and will remain with the Cats until at least the end of next season. – AAP

Snapper are biting back

ON THE BITE Peri

Snapper have come back onto the chew this week with some nice reports coming from the outer harbour with anglers putting in some hard work being rewarded with some nice fish. Anglers fishing a tide change or on first/last night have been finding better success.

Fishing your typical snapper baits like pilchards, squid and silver whiting have all been accounting for plenty of nibbles.

St Leonards through to Queenscliff has continued to fish well for King George whiting especially with the stronger tides we have received. Squid strips and pipis have been the stand out baits as per always.

The offshore tuna bite has been much hit and miss these past weeks with anglers either getting nothing or having sessions to remember. The key lately has been finding the better quality water, bait and birds. Once those three are in line then it’s only a matter of time until the tuna show up in force.

Whentheydoyouwillpickthemupon the troll with hardbody or skirted lures however the most exciting way and at times like this the most effective method wouldbetothrowtopwaterluresintothe commotion.

Large schools of Australian salmon are still hanging around but can expect them to move on at some point so it’s a good time to get out there and try to load up on gummy baits for the winter.

Kingfish have still been in numbers but have definitely slowed up. Being persistent and working hard should show some results.

looked up to among her peers.

She excelled early, taking out the Riddell District Football League best and fairest in 2021 and became one of the first girls from Gisborne to play representative football.

Now entering a new part of her career, Collings said she expects to spend more time in the forward line this year.

As a small, highly skilled player who is also a fan of the Western Bulldogs in the AFL, Collings has always looked up to Caleb Daniel and tries to emulate aspects of his game.

“I’m honestly feeling so much better being in the forward line, I’ve seen it as an opportunity rather than something bad,” she said. “I can do a quick spurt of tough running rather than being constantly tired in the midfield.”

Reflecting on her career so far, she said she was grateful to her parents and her early coaches Robert Bretheron and Darren Mitchell at Gisborne for their support.

Oliver Lees

The Barwon estuary has been another popular location this past week with anglers finding a whole variety of species on offer in the system with towards the front providing lots of options, especially if you are trying to escape the weather or want to have some fun for the kids. Salmon, trevally and whiting are all on the chew and in good numbers.

Moving further up and above the lake the estuary perch have been in fantastic numbers. Anglers getting out have been landing fish to over 50cm which is great to see for our local waters.

S4X Grovedale Yellow: Rose Sleep, Catherine Flahavin, Fletcher Allen and Matthew Allen. (Supplied)

Attention turns to grand finals

Independent photographer Ivan Kemp was at Osborne Park for the GCA North Geelong vs Newtown & Chilwell semi-final and Justin Flynn was at RT Fuller Oval for the BPCA semi between Barwon Heads and Armstrong Creek.

Left: Archie Bain takes the catch to dismiss Sam Hall for 37. Centre: Clay Mulgrew was again brilliant for the Titans. Right: Taj Don at the bowling crease. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 395794

Ned Cooper plays this delivery to leg.

Dylan Hodge took 2 for 79 off 21 overs for Newtown & Chilwell.

Jorden Lewis in action.

Sam Hall drives square of the wicket for North Geelong.

The Heads celebrate a run out by Harry Hyland.

Matthew Kennedy drives.

Above: Clay Mulgrew was again brilliant for the Titans.

Below: Daniel Donaldson was superb for Barwon Heads with four wickets.

Highton wins by one shot

By Justin Flynn

Highton and Ocean Grove played out an epic Geelong Bowls Region Premier Division grand final at Belmont with underdogs Highton scrambling home by one shot on Sunday March 17.

Highton had to do it the hard way before winning 58 to 57.

They lost to Ocean Grove in the qualifying final and then the preliminary finals weren’t played on March 9 or 10 due to the extreme heat.

It meant Highton had to defeat Drysdale on Saturday March 16 and then front up the following day against the top of the table Grovers.

“It was a pretty amazing feeling at the club – everybody was pretty pumped, especially with how close the game was the entire way through,” Highton captain Scott McLachlan said. “Everyone’s been on their own journey thisyearand(you)couldn’twriteabetterscript for everyone really.”

Ocean Grove won two of the three rinks on offer, but it was Dan Priddle’s rink that came away with a 25 to 12 win that went a long way to clinching victory.

However, McLachlan said his side takes no notice of the individual rink scores, insteading focussing on the overall total.

“We don’t really look at the individual scores too much, we just play the one board,” he said. “We just play the master board and that’s

what we’ve kind of worked on all season.”

McLachlan said his side learned a lot from the qualifying final loss to the Grovers before overcoming bogey side Drysdale on the Saturday.

“In the regular season they’ve (Drysdale) been our bogey side so we wanted to make sure we came out and had a good showing against them,” he said.

“The win against Drysdale and how we performed on the Saturday probably boosted the confidence as well.

“Even though we lost on all three rinks (in the qualifying final) we kind of realised that we were pretty close on all three rinks. We were probably just a couple of good bowls here and there from winning it.”

Torquay clinched the Division 1 Section 1 flag with a 28-shot win against Portarlington while Geelong defeated Ocean Grove by 11 in Section 2.

Eastern Park won a thriller in Division 2 Section 1 by one shot against Anglesea and Leopold emerged triumphant in Section 2 against Geelong RSL.

Highton defeated Barwon Heads in the Division 1 Section 1 grand final and City of Geelong defeated Geelong RSL in Section 2.

Torquay scraped past Drysdale by two shots in Division 4 Section 1 and St Leonards defeated Leopold in Section 2.

Bell Post Hill won Division 5, Portarlington won Division 6 Section 1 and Eastern Park lifted the trophy in Section 2.

The winning Highton team. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 394821

Above: The final bowl goes Highton’s way. Below: Robert Priddle leads off for Highton.

Torquay won Division 1 Section 1.

Scott McLachlan watches his bowl.

Craig Polwarth plays the forehand.

Michael West concentrates on this shot.

Craig Elliot shows his experience.

Familiar tale as old foes take aim

By Justin Flynn

North Geelong and East Belmont have been the best two sides in the Geelong Cricket Association for several seasons and meet again in a grand final at South Barwon Reserve this weekend.

The Magpies are aiming for five straight premierships and after putting Newtown & Chilwell to the sword in the semi-final, are slight favourites going into the clash.

North skipper Tom Mathieson said East Belmont possesses a swag of talented players.

“They’reaverybalancedsideatthemoment,” he said. “They’re coming in with some good form, some individuals who are coming in red hot with the ball and bat. We know what we’re going to get from them. They’ve obviously got some really key wickets at the top.

“WithShane(McNamara)andSean(O’Neill)

GCA grand finals

GCA 1sts

North Geelong vs East Belmont, South Barwon Reserve

GCA 2nds

St Peters vs Torquay, Leopold Memorial Park

GCA 3rds

Geelong West vs St Peters, Herne Hill Reserve

GCA 4ths (one-day fixture 12.30pm)

Lethbridge vs Waurn Ponds Deakin, Grinter Reserve, Newcomb

and then from there, (Josh) Lacey’s had an awesome year as well and their middle order’s pretty strong. It’s probably two even sides that

bat deep and both bowl very consistently.”

North Geelong’s semi-final form was outstanding, making 290 and bowling the Two Blues out for 77.

“Everyone had a good hit, got off to some starts, which obviously this week hopefully we’ll go on to get some big scores,” Mathieson said.“Andthensamewiththebowlersknowing that we could bowl a side out on a good wicket fairly convincingly.”

North Geelong needs only to draw the game to win the premiership and East Belmont skipper Shane McNamara said his side “might have to make the play a little bit”.

“I think the last month our cricket’s been pretty good so there’s a little bit of confidence there for the guys,” he said.

If North Geelong was impressive on semi-final weekend, the Lions were just as good.

ThegameagainstGrovedaledidn’tevenneed to go into a second day.

The Lions’ attack is spearheaded by Brendan Klein-Boonschate and Jack Jenkins, who took nine of the 10 wickets to fall.

This will be the fourth grand final in a row between the two sides.

“They’ve (North Geelong) been pretty good across the board and they continually put scores on the board,” McNamara said.

“On the weekend they’ve scored 290 and everyone contributed. And then they have Dale (Kerr) and Tom (Mathieson) at the top to make a good fast bowling combination. They have some good support around them as well, so that’s why they’ve been the top of the pack the last few years.”

The game is at Reynolds Oval, South Barwon from 11.30am on Saturday March 23 and Sunday March 24.

Anglesea and Heads in potentially epic final

After being relegated from the Bellarine Peninsula Cricket Association A1 Grade competition following the 2020/21 season, Barwon Heads has almost completed a rags to riches story.

Two seasons in A2 Grade was two too many for a club that was regularly winning A Grade premierships during the first decade of the century.

But an A2 Grade flag last season meant automatic promotion and this weekend the Seagulls will attempt to do the unthinkable - win the A1 premiership and put a dent in a decade of Anglesea dominancein which the Seas have won six of the past nine flags.

Barwon Heads defeated Armstrong Creek in the semi-final in what was a superb performance. Openers Max and Harry Melzer and leg-spinning all-rounder Dan Donaldson are the in-form players.

“That was a tough contest which holds us in good stead for a grand final this week,” coach Ben Harris said.

“We got most aspects of the game pretty right on the weekend. I thought we did well up top with Max and Harry and Dan Donaldson came in and played a support role as well.

“And you know 245, it’s a big score (and we knew) they would have to do a lot right to chase it down and we felt that we fielded well and our bowlers did a great job.”

Harris said the club respected Anglesea’s recentdominanceanditswinagainstBarrabool in the semi-final by batting 75 overs after being in some trouble.

“They’re always up for the fight, they are a well-drilled team,” he said.

“They’ve been thereabouts the last six years.

They were in trouble, but they ended up batting the 75 overs. They are a tough nut to crack and they’ve got five or six good bowlers. We’re going to have to bat well and we’re looking forward to the opportunity.”

Anglesea skipper Dylan Taylor said his side’s gutsy semi-final win was good preparation and believes the winner will be the side that bats best.

“I think it’s always good to be challenged and see how the boys go in those situations,” he said.

“I think it’s where we can get on top of each other’s bowling. Barwon Heads have two high quality spinners in Sam Schaller and Dan Donaldson, who bowl really tight and they’re

smart bowlers.”

Taylor said there was no extra expectation to raise Anglesea’s premiership streak to five in a row.

“I think this year is a bit different,” he said.

“We’ve got four or five new guys and I know they’re very hungry to win it, so it keeps us old guys going along and keeps us hungry. We will just do what we’ve done in previous years and try and keep it as normal as possible and just play like a normal game.”

The BPCA grand finals are on Saturday March23andSundayMarch24from1pmwith a reserve day on March 30 if required.

Justin Flynn

BPCA grand finals

A1 GRADE

Anglesea vs Barwon Heads, Bob Pettitt Reserve, Jan Juc

A2 GRADE

Collendina vs Drysdale, Len Trewin Reserve, St Leonards

B1 GRADE

Ocean Grove vs Barrabool, Armstrong Creek West Oval

B2 GRADE

Queenscliff vs Wallington, Drysdale Recreation Reserve

C GRADE

Ocean Grove vs Barrabool, Armstrong Creek East Oval

D GRADE (one-day game)

Queenscliff vs Wallington, RT Fuller Oval, Barwon Heads

Dan Donaldson took 4/48 from 24.3 overs in the semi-final and looms as a major threat for Barwon Heads in the grand final against Anglesea. (Justin Flynn) 395794_06

Left: Sam Hall drives down the wicket for North Geelong in the semi-final. Right: Ned Cooper forms a formidable opening partnership with Sam Hall for the Magpies. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 394829

ARMSTRONG CREEK OVER 55s LIVING

Come home to Armstrong Green

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Lunch with ‘Lingy’

Cameron Ling comes to Armstrong Green

Cameron Ling needs no introduction to Geelong and the wider community, he is a highly regarded champion and a household name.

If you are 55 or over, we invite you to come along and enjoy lunch with our vibrant community, and take a tour.

“Lingy” will share insights on relevant and relatable topics; this eventful afternoon is not to be missed.

Bookings Essential. Call 1800 777 898 to register.

armstronggreen.com.au

JOIN US FOR LUNCH WITH CAMERON LING SEE BELOW.

THE DUNEED VILLA

DATE Tuesday, April 4, 2023

VENUE

Armstrong Green Clubhouse

722-742 Barwon Heads Road

Armstrong Creek

RSVP Wednesday March 27 by calling the sales specialists Jodie and Linda on 1800 777 898

1800 777 898