Ocean Grove Voice - 22nd March 2024

One last burst of summer?

Could we have experienced the last of the very warm weather?

Temperatures nudged about 30 degrees on the weekend and early this week before falling to the high teens on Wednesday in what was a bit of a shock to the system.

It may well be last of the 30-plus degree weather until later in the year.

Sophie Black took her sons Augie and Ziggy (pictured) to the beach at Barwon Heads on Tuesday before the cold front swept through.

The Bureau of Meteorology’s forecast for the weekend is temperatures in the low 20s before reach the mid-20s on Monday and then back down again.

We are soon into April, when traditionally there is less wind and calmer days on the Bellarine.

■ For more pictures, see page 24.

New pool set to close

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 messagetocouncilwasthecommunitywanted a pool that would be open and accessible on an ongoing basis. Unfortunately, my concerns and the concerns of the community regarding

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 committed to do,” she said. “With 24,000 visits 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.”

12496495-NG24-21

Batteries to charge Queenscliff

Queenscliff will improve energy network reliability to keep lights on during power outages and allow rooftop solar for more households thanks to state government funding.

The Borough of Queenscliffe is a successful recipient of the 100 Neighbourhood Batteries Program’s first round, which looks to increase renewable energy storage capacity.

The $42 million program will help deliver four neighbourhood batteries for Point

Lonsdale and Queenscliff’s communities to maximise benefits of locally generated solar power.

Mayor Isabelle Tolhurst said the funding enabled the borough to strengthen its capacity to generate energy locally, benefiting community members and organisations.

“We thank the state government for their supportandourlocalmemberAlisonMarchant for her commitment to this project,” she said.

“This is a tremendous win for our community

and an acknowledgement of considerable work and advocacy from community over many years.

“We encourage those interested in the initiative’s implementation to join the upcoming information session to understand what this meansfortheborough.”

Mayor Tolhurst said neighbourhood batteries function as solar sponges that look to increase access to cheap renewable energy across the region.

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 attemptingreal-worldscenarioswhilesharing 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 confidence in those skills and work with people from a range of different skill sets.

“There was some really fantastic teamwork between people that have never even met each other before, but they’re in their troubleshooting and working out how to resolve an issue.”

Ms Vella said close to 20 female volunteers participatedintheday’sactivities,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.

“Thesecondlookedatincidentmanagement and how we manage incidents, triage jobs, and how we look at allocating crews and resources when we’re operating during large events.

“The third one looked at the app we use, 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 aboutVICSESandhowtobecomeavolunteer.

Jena Carr

Borough-managed land will accommodate the batteries, with the initiative to deliver on the community’sClimateEmergencyResponsePlan. A community session is planned for April 10 for the borough to share plans and next steps for the project, with more information on the borough’swebsite.

More information about the 100 Neighbourhood Batteries Program is available at energy.vic.gov.au/grants/neighbourhoodbatteries/100-neighbourhood-batteries

Easter railway fundraiser

Bellarine Railway has announced its annual fundraising event scheduled for Good Friday, aimed at supporting The Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal.

The railway contributed $8000 to the appeal in 2023, from the proceeds of ticket sales on Good Friday, and hopes to exceed that amount this year with the support of visitors.

People of all ages can join the volunte ersatQueenscliffStationonMarch29for a picturesque train journey along Swan Bay to Lakers Siding and back.

Trains will depart from Queenscliff Station with each trip lasting 45 minutes. Triptimesareat11am,noon,1pm,2pm and 3pm and depart from Queenscliff Station.

Bellarine Railway is operated by the Geelong Steam Preservation Society, a not-for-profit founded in 1970. The society was the first Victorian preserved railway established entirely by volunteers and features a unique collection of locomotives and carriages from 3’6’’ narrow-gauge systems across Australia.

TrainsfirstranatBelmontCommonin Geelong, before operations moved (1976) to the Queenscliff-Drysdale section of the former Victorian Railway’s South Geelong-Queenscliff branch line, which opened in May 1879. Originally broad gauge, the line was converted to 3’6” between Queenscliff and Lakers Siding in time for the line’s centenary, with the remaining section to Drysdale reopened in 1980.

For details on the Good Friday Appeal Trips and our other Easter Weekend trips, visit bellarinerailway.com.au/ easter-weekend-2024/

To find out more about the appeal or to make a donation, visit fundraise. goodfridayappeal.com.au/fundraisers/ TheBellarineRailway

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

More paths for a stroll

Ocean Grove residents are being urged to keep an eye for signs that will display the next stages of the pedestrian footpath network.

The Ocean Grove Principal Pedestrian Network (PPN) will see 24.3 kilometres of new pathways delivered over the next few years to ‘old’ Ocean Grove and Collendina . Street feature surveys are complete for stages 1 and 2, and detailed design works are well underway.

City of Greater Geelong executive director city infrastructure James Stirton was pleased construction for this footpath network project was underway.

“A big thanks to local community members for joining with the City to ensure this new 24.3 kilometres of pathway network met their needs and increased accessibility and safety,” he said.

“Community members will spot signage in the streets where footpaths will be constructed next, with a handy QR code directing them to more detailed information.”

The following streets in Stage 1 are receiving new footpaths in 2023-24, with information

signs to be moved between streets as the network progresses:

• South side of Shell Road West (reserve entrance to Bellarine Aquatic & Sports Centre) – completed

• West side of Aldebaran Road – construction underway

• Both sides of Marlin Drive – awaiting construction

• SouthsideofShellRoadEast(AldebaranRoad to Bonnyvale Road) – awaiting construction

• South side of Thacker Street (Blue Waters Drive to Field St North) – awaiting construction

• SouthsideofThackerStreet(WallingtonRoad to Blue Waters Drive) – awaiting construction

• East side of Field Street South (133 The Parade) – awaiting construction

• North side of Wallington Road (Thacker Street/Bell Street) – awaiting construction

• East side of Wallington Road (Bell Street/ Orton Street) – awaiting construction

Due to design challenges caused by issues such as steep driveways, vegetation and cultural heritage overlays, the following

footpaths are not yet ready to be built. The City said it anticipated construction in 2024-25, along with paths earmarked for Stage 2:

• North side of The Terrace (Wallington Road to Presidents Avenue)

• North side of Madeley Street (Tuckfield Street to Field Street North)

• West side of Eggleston Street North (Thacker Street to Madeley Street)

• West side of Field Street North (Thacker Street to Kalinga Street)

• West side of Tuckfield Street (Grubb Road to Ocean Throughway)

• West side of Eggleston Street (Orton Street to Madeley Street)

• North side of The Terrace (Eggleston Street to Tuckfield Street)

• East side of Blue Waters Drive, Lake Avenue and Bell Avenue

• South side of Thacker Street (Eggleston Street to Tuckfield Street)

• South side of Thacker Street (Field Street North to Eggleston Street)

See geelong.link/PedestrianNetwork for more information.

Walking for refugee awareness

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.

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 last year, due to the desperateness of the asylum 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.”

People will walk along Queenscliff’s Narrows walk and bike path to Point Lonsdale’s Spring 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

Film society celebrates

After a successful 2024 season launch and celebration of 12 years of screenings the Portarlington Film Society (PFS) returns in March with a classic feature.

Having kicked off this year’s program with Charlotte Well’s Aftersun, a poignant tale of joy and melancholy, PFS brings Rear Window to the big screen on March 22 at the Portarlington Girl GuidesHall.

Widely considered one of Alfred Hitchcock’s best films, 1954 mystery thriller Rear Window starredJamesStewartandGraceKelly,returning $37milliononits$1mbudget.

Like many community activity groups, PFS lost members throughout the pandemic years, buthasbeensteadilyrecoveringnumberssince.

PFS spokesperson Pearl Wilson encouraged film fans to consider joining the society while they had the chance, as membership numbers

werecapped.

“We used to have a waiting list, but we don’t at the moment,” Ms Wilson said.

“Everything changed in those (pandemic) years, where people now stream a lot of film in their own home. For a while it was hard to get peopletocomeoutagain.

“But they are coming out now, and they’re really out. People are loving being back amongst the other members, where they can talk about film.”

She said the greatest thing about a film society was having the chance to meet other people who were interested in film and see movies that weren’talwaysshowninmainstreamcinemas.

“It’sthecamaraderie,forwantofabetterword,” MsWilsonsaid.Visitportnh.org.au/film_society formoreinformationorenquireaboutbecoming amember.

Briefs

Literary fest wants VP

Queenscliffe Literary Festival is celebrating 10 very successful years in October. The committee is seeking a suitably qualified person to take up the role of vice-president of thienot-for-profit, incorporated association, with the expectation of succeeding into the role of president at the next AGM in November. The role requires someone with board/ committee experience (preferably in the community/not for profit sector), governance knowledge, leadership skills, and the ability to plan and manage projects. Business or enterprise development would also be beneficial, as would knowledge and understanding of the local Borough of Queenscliffe community. More information: queenscliffeliteraryfestival.com.au/news

Learning Lions

An evening of interest and information for those interested in what their local Lions Club do will be held at Bellarine Living & Learning Centre, 20 Wooden Ct, Whittington, on Monday March 25 at 7.30pm. Discuss how your local Lions club can help you and the community. Phone on John 0427 354 767 for more information.

Paddle out

Surfrider Foundation Australia will be hosting its first public paddle out event of 2024 to rally the community around its campaign to Save the Southern Sea from fossil fuel exploration. The event will take place on March 23 at Cosy Corner Beach in Torquay from 11.30am, where everyone is invited to come together in opposition against the world’s largest proposed seismic blasting permit, aimed at searching for gas along the coastlines of Victoria and Tasmania. In 2019, Surfrider Australia opposed the development of the Great Australian Bight as a deep water oil field.

“The local community here on the Surf Coast paddled out in a roaring protest against the Great Australian Bight issue,” said Darren Noyes-Brown, secretary of Surfrider Surf Coast branch. “Now this project is even closer to us, with a community that strongly opposes it - we will proudly paddle out and do whatever it takes to stop this. The community has everything to lose and nothing to gain if this project goes ahead, not discounting the bigger picture that Australia can never make any meaningful contribution to climate action while the gas industry continues to expand.”

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Carr

who are in this dreadful situation.”

Jena

Luis Kuchenmuller, Sue Longmore and Beth Hoots will walk for refugee awareness this weekend. (Ivan Kemp) 395788_05

Brooke fires up for championships

BrookeWoodhartjoinedMannerimFireBrigade asajuniorin2011attheageof13.

She then joined Portarlington Fire Brigade alongsidehermum,dadandsisterin2014.

Brooke said she became a CFA volunteer becausebeingabletogivebacktothecommunity in a way that protects and educates is a really rewardingexperience.

“Beinginvolvedinthejuniorsprogramshowed me how important our work as volunteers is to thecommunityanditshowedmethatIcandoit too,”Brookesaid.

Brooke started competing in the CFA/VFBV StateFirefighterChampionshipswithMannerim brigade’s team in 2011. Despite moving to

Portarlington Fire Brigade, she continued running with Mannerim at both regional and stateChampionships.

In 2016, Brooke decided to broaden her skills by becoming the regional Championships trackmaster for CFA’s District 7 in the south westofthestate.Thisroleinvolvesoverseeingthe trackonthedayofcompetition.

Brooke is preparing to compete at the State Firefighter Championships this weekend in Mooroopna.

“I need to make sure everyone is doing what theyneedtobedoing,checkingalltheequipment isinplaceandthateveryoneisfollowingtherules of the day. I basically make sure everything runs

Siblings a harmonic duo

ABellarinesiblingduoischannellingtheirlove of storytelling and smooth vocal tones in a new song about growing up.

Wild Honey is the indie-folk and pop project of Daniel and Lucy Crock, who released their debut single Where I’m From on March 15.

Daniel lives in Melbourne and plans to return to the Bellarine to be closer to his older sister. He said it felt “slightly surreal” to release a song in “ode to our influences”.

“We’ve been playing music together since we were kids and when we were teenagers, we would write songs and play together in our lounge room,” he said.

“Now we live a few hours apart, and we’re busier. We still bicker like siblings, but we also understand each other and our music in a way that I think only family can.

“Because we’re siblings, we’re very comfortable around each other which means

that we both just say what we want, so that can be a challenge, but it is pretty fun as well.”

Bellarine-based Lucy said the siblings loved singing stories that felt significant, which was the drawcard of folk music for them.

“We wrote Where I’m From a few years ago, reflecting on what it would feel like to look back after everything changes, after all the unsettling of our early twenties,” she said.

“It means even more to us now. Once you’ve grown up a bit, it can give you perspective on the things you used to take for granted. We live a few hours apart now, and we’re a lot busier.

“The things that used to feel normal feel nostalgic and sentimental, things like singing with your siblings...and in Where I’m From, we’ve tried to capture that feeling of the years moving quickly.”

Jena Carr

BEACH STAIRWAY AND PARKING AREA NOW OPEN

We’re delighted to re-open the beach access and parking lot at ANT 13th Beach (36W) following works to build a new and improved staircase. The Barwon Coast area is susceptible to tidal impacts that can undermine infrastructure. The replacement was necessary due to the sand around the footings receding, leaving them exposed and creating a risk to public safety. The new staircase offers a safer, more convenient way to reach this much-loved beach. We extend our gratitude to the community for your patience throughout the project.

We care for the coast barwoncoast.com.au

smoothly,”Brookesaid.

“Therolealsoinvolvesalivefiredemonstration and competition at Geelong Show every year whichisexcitingandamazingtobepartof!”

Brooke says the Championships are a great way to keep up firefighting skills with events involving coupling and bowling hoses as the practicereallyhelpsonthefireground.

“The camaraderie, communication and the teamwork the champs builds with members is invaluable,”shesaid.“Youmeetdifferentbrigades and the people that come to support their family membersandfriendsisalwayswarmingtosee.

“And a bit of healthy competition never hurt anyone!”

REVIVING VITAL GRASSLAND HABITAT IN BANCOORA

Our Natural Resource team is working to restore a grassland area in Bancoora. The area has been damaged by aging plants, rabbits eating the grass, and wallabies grazing there. Grasslands provide critical homes and food for many native animals including birds, reptiles, wallabies, insects and echidnas. However, grasslands are becoming rarer as shrublands, and woody plants take over more areas.

Over the next few months, local native grasses will be planted to revive this threatened ecosystem. Along with this, programs to control rabbits will be done to allow the new grasslands to grow properly. Restoring grasslands is crucial for preserving biodiversity in the region.

IT’S CLEAN UP AUSTRALIA DAY, EVERY DAY

Earlier this month, Clean Up Australia Day saw many members of the local community take practical action to help keep this incredible part of Wadawurrung Country clean.

Rubbish can injure wildlife, end up in our waterways and detract from the natural beauty of the peninsula. Unfortunately, our Rangers have noticed dog waste being left around the Collendenia beach stairs. We’re all responsible for doing our part to look after the environment, and dog owners are no exception. Take all rubbish with you and dispose it in the nearest bin.

PORT OF BARWON HEADS UPDATE

We manage the Local Port of Barwon Heads and are pleased to provide updates on our current projects and developments.

Stage 1 of the Channel Safety Realignment is underway, with three new navigational beacons set to be piled south of the Barwon Heads pedestrian bridge in April. These beacons will provide safer access and easier navigation for boats transiting to and from the ocean. Our local Marine Search and Rescue unit, Coast Watch Ocean Grove, uses this channel to conduct their vital emergency work for people who run into difficulties while out on the water.

Stage 3 of Main Jetty maintenance works are also scheduled for next month. For the safety of jetty users, this location will be closed for approximately five weeks. We appreciate your patience during our staged approach to the works and will let you know when the jetty re-opens.

Folks of all ages at Ocean Grove Coast Care got their gloves dirty around 14W

Bellarine sibling duo Daniel and Lucy Crock have released their debut single. (Supplied)

Brooke Woodhart will compete at the State Firefighter Championships this weekend in Mooroopna. (Supplied)

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

Newly formed ’UnderCover’ has been making waves at Geelong’s iconic Elephant & Castle and we cannot wait to see what they bring to Swan Island! A collection of past members of popular covers band CoolChange, including Lead singer Glenn Braithwaite. Excited? We are!

Easter egg hunt for the little ones (or not so little).

Crayfish Raffle, Cheese Platters and Food available.

*Crayfish Raffle*Cheese Platters*Oakdene Wines*Cold Beers*

Book online at www.trybooking.com/CPCNJ or scan the QR code

Would you like some more information? Send us an email: nicci@queenscliffgolfclub.com.au

Trash becomes charity treasure

By Matt Hewson

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.

“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.

Athletes set to descend on Geelong

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.

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

- Eddy Kontelj

“It’sagreatplatformforathletesofallshapes, 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

fromaneconomicstimulusperspective,they’re fantastic.”

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said Victoria was home to many significant events, with Geelong providingthe“perfectvenue”forIronman70.3.

“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.

Jena Carr

“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.

Tennis upgrades on are track

The Leopold Tennis Pavilion Redevelopment project continues with the completion of a new playground.

The new playground, located at the Leopold Memorial Reserve, features a colour palette composed predominantly of greens and greys, designed to blend in with the area’s natural surroundings.

The pre-existing playground has been deconstructed and will be transported and reconstructed in Angeles, Philippines as part of the Rotary Overseas Recycled Playgrounds program, which has sent over 200 decommissioned playgrounds to developing countries.

Greater Geelong Mayor Trent Sullivan said having the new playground installed at the Leopold Memorial Reserve as a part of the overall Leopold Tennis Pavilion project was fantastic.

Councillor Jim Mason said ensuring the council prioritised providing access to open spaces, play spaces and parks across the Bellarine ward.

Inadditiontotheplaygroundthe$1.72 million project, due to be completed in August, will provide a new pavilion for the Leopold Tennis Club.

The original club rooms, whose demolition signalled the beginning of the project in November last year, were built in the 1970s.

The pavilion will include female-friendly change rooms and showers, a kiosk and kitchen, a social space toilets (including an accessible public toilet) and an accessible car bay.

The Victorian Government’s Sport and Recreation 2022-23 Local Community Sport and Recreation Projects fund provided $1 million to the project, with the City of Greater Geelong contributing $720,000.

Sea�ng: Adult $45 Conc $40 Theatre Sea�ng: Adult $40 Conc $38 Student $25 Theatre Sea�ng: Adult $28 Conc $26 Student $24

Cabaret Sea�ng: Adult $55 Conc $50 Theatre Sea�ng: Adult $50 Conc $48

Expect high calibre circus, a rocking soundtrack, and genuine belly laughs. Winners of Best Children's Show in Adelaide, Perth and Edinburgh.

A sensa�onal drag tribute dedicated to the legendary Tina Turner. Be mesmerized as Fabio channels Tina’s fierce confidence and dance moves.

Beyond The Shadows are a professional 6-piece tribute band performing the music of Cliff Richard and The Shadows

Emma Donovan brings Songs, Stories and Soul from Family and Country to the Shed for one night only. A compelling explora�on of the human condi�on interwoven with both humour and pathos.

Eddy Kontelj. (Ivan Kemp) 396092_06

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Events galore coming up

By Cr Trent Sullivan

The range of events held in our region is considerable.

Whether it be major festivals that draw people from across the world or smaller, hyperlocal occasions, the City of Greater Geelong has a well-earned reputation for hosting events.

In recent times we have seen the Festival of Sails and Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race attractthousandsofpeopletoourregion,with a focus on the waterfront.

That will be the case again this weekend with the 70.3 Ironman, an event that stretches and tests the strength and endurance of all competitors in the water, on their bikes and on land.

However, another sporting event set to be run closer to home will also take place this weekend when the Senior Victorian Life Saving Championships are held at Ocean Grove.

These titles will see more than 750 athletes and their families call our region home for the weekend.

From a competitive perspective, the fact we have such amazing beaches and facilities right on our doorstep is a blessing because it means athletes from our region have an understanding of the conditions they will be faced with, providing an advantage others may well be envious of.

But from a holistic approach, bringing such a large volume of people to the Bellarine has large flow-on effects.

There are serious economic benefits to having competitors, their families, their supporters, and friends, staying in Greater Geelong.

From the beaches to the wineries, our art

galleries and restaurants, all businesses see the benefits of our events program, regardless of how big or small they might be.

I want to take this opportunity to congratulate the Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club, not only on the work it has done to create such a welcoming environment and its track record of hosting events such as this overmanyyears,butforcelebratingits75-year anniversary late last year.

The club has been home to many young locals who have learnt to swim and surf and gone on to guard the beach and we are so grateful for their work.

Council was proud to support Life Saving Victoria in its 2024 budget, allocating $47,500 to support lifeguard services on coastal beaches.

I trust the weekend will be yet another success for the Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club and am confidentitwillyetagain enhance our reputation for being an events city.

City of Greater Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan. (Supplied)

Repurposed materials protect environment

get into that mindset, you look at everything in a different light.”

Labor’s changes

Geelong Fibre Artists opened Forage Foliage Fibre at Queenscliffe Neighbourhood House (QNH) on March 16, with the exhibition running until April 14.

Exhibition curator Silvana Benacchio said artists used foraged and repurposed items in their environment, like plants and branches, to create artworks.

“All sorts of things are made into things like basketry, sculptures, wall hangings, jewellery, and all kinds of beautiful and diverse creations,” she said.

“There’s such a diverse range of different styles and things that people have made. There are 14 artists in this exhibition, and they’re all quite different from each other.

“Some of the sculptures there are using thingslikeplasticbreadbagsorthingsthatthey find on the beach that are rubbish... Once you

Ms Benacchio said it was important for people to care for their environment and watch what they threw out, showcased through the exhibition’s displays.

“It could include foraged materials from the beach like seagrass and kelp, and things that wash up like fishing lines, plastic ropes, fishing lures, and repurposed plastic bags,” she said.

“One of the works featured is a memory basket by one of our members who made this in memory of her daughter’s 13th birthday out of videotape and photo negatives of the birthday itself.”

QNH will also host a free fibre art demonstration by artist Marg Watts from 1pm to 2pm on March 23 as part of the Forage FoliageFibreexhibition.Visittrybooking.com/ CQGEX to book a spot.

Jena Carr

and District got off to a great start with 15 membership applications accepted on the day.

Probus is fun and friendship in retirement. Membership is open to anyone who is retired or semi-retired.

Probus Clubs offer a range of activities including trips and outings for members to enjoy, depending on their interests, lifestyle and location. Probus Club members meet monthly, to enjoy the

company of like-minded fellow retirees and listen to interesting guest speakers.

Michael Ransom, chairman of Probus South Pacific, led the initial interest meeting.

The next meeting will be held at Point Lonsdale Surf Life Saving Club on Thursday April 4 at 9.15 for a 9.30am start. Everyone is welcome to come along and find out more.

“It is wonderful to have this opportunity to start a new club aimed towards social activities, fun and friendship,” the club’s inaugural president Helen Grant said.

This means new parents will be eligible for more Paid Parental Leave from 1 July this year with the passage of this historic legislation.

From 1 July, two more weeks of payment will be added each year until the overall length of the Paid Parental Leave scheme reaches 26-weeks by July 2026.

It also provides more flexibility by increasing the amount of leave that parents can take at the same time, from two to four weeks.

Expanding Paid Parental Leave to 26-weeks also complements the Government’s plan, announced earlier this month, to pay superannuation on Paid Parental Leave from 1 July 2025.

The new club is sponsored by Ocean Grove Rotary.

Probus South Pacific chair Michael Ransom (centre) with committee members of the new club.

A Queenscliff art exhibition showcases surrounding land and sea elements by using natural foraged and repurposed materials.

Marg Watts with her Forage Foliage Fibre exhibition artwork ’Eye on the Snail’. (Supplied)

Star visit for college

By Jena Carr

A Drysdale catholic secondary school has welcomed a star in women’s sports during its International Women’s Day (IWD) events.

Saint Ignatius College Geelong’s IWD event kicked off with student celebrations on March 8, followed by a community evening at the school’s Loyola Centre on March 12.

A school spokesperson said they were glad to have former Olympic swimmer and AFLW chief executive Nicole Livingstone as the community evening’s keynote speaker.

“The Loyola Centre was buzzing with attendees... It was a wonderful night for the college community, and we look forward to next year’s event,” they said.

“Guests enjoyed listening to Nicole’s story of determination, and her constant ability to adapt to and embrace new challenges and roles in her life.”

The spokesperson said the college had experienced considerable growth and success in recent years with its Australian Football League (AFL), AFL Women’s, and swim teams.

Catholicprincipalsandstudentsfromfellow schools, members of the college’s advisory board, school alums, community members and Geelong politicians also attended the community event.

Ms Livingstone’s career has seen one silver and two bronze medals from three Olympic appearances, and six gold, two silver, and a bronze from three Commonwealth Games.

She has also won four gold, seven silver and three bronze medals across six Pan Pacific Championships and broke a world record in 200m backstroke (short course) in 1992.

Nominations open for awards

Rotary Club Ocean Grove is hosting the annual Vocational Community Service Awardwhichhasfivecategories.

Nominationsarewelcomedfrompeople who either live or work in the southern Bellarine.

Prizes are awarded to winners and runnersupineachcategory. Thecategories include:

• Apprentice/trainee of the year – a person who has achieved in their studies and work($1500winnerand$500runner-up)

• Small Business Excellence award – a business that has been innovative and strived for excellence ($1500 winner and $500runner-up)

• TeamMemberoftheyear–apersonwho has helped those around them ($1500 winnerand$500runner-up)

• Volunteer organisation – a volunteer group that serves their community ($1500winnerand$500runner-up)

After the winners have been finalised there will be a People’s Choice Award ($1000), selecting the most popular businessfromthosenominated.

Ocean Grove Rotary is grateful for the support of our main sponsor Bendigo Bank and local sponsors Ocean Grove Bowling Club, 360Q, Ryman Healthcare, BT Cafe, Barwon Heads Hotel, Barwon Heads IGA, Barwon Heads Pharmacy, Ocean Grove Business Association, DC Roofing, Chopped and Bobbed and CoastlineAlfresco.Tonominateabusiness, volunteer organisation or a individual go to rotaryoceangrove.org.au/communityservice-awards-links. Nominations for the awards are open and close on May 1.

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.

Alana Clark, Nicole Livingstone and Curtis McCoughtry celebrated

International Women’s Day at Saint Ignatius College. (Ivan Kemp) 393020_06

Local news and local jobs at risk

By Andrew Schreyer, Country Press Australiapresident

Australia’s largest organisation of newspaper publishers has attacked the announcement by Meta that it will no longer negotiate deals with publishers once current agreements expire.

Country Press Australia [CPA] represents more than 230 regional, rural and outer suburban publications across the nation.

The organisation was advised through an email from Meta on March 1 that “our company priorities have substantially shifted in the past year and, as a result, we will no longer be making Facebook news tab available in Australia”.

Meta also confirmed “This doesn’t affect our agreement with CPA which will continue in accordance with its terms and conditions until it expires”.

In a subsequent meeting, between CPA and Meta it was made clear that CPA’s agreement with Meta would not be renewed.

This is a devastating blow to our members who are party to the agreement.

Meta has been providing grants to CPA publishers which has provided vital sustainability.

There will be publishers who close the doors and won’t be able to continue supporting their communities with news in the wake of this announcement. These regional and local publishersarethemajor,andinmostcasessole, providers of local public interest journalism in their communities.

In times of trouble and in emergency situations, such as during floods and in major bushfire events, the local publisher’s Facebook page is never more important or appreciated by people in our communities.

Meta’s actions undermine our democracy

in the way the company displays such disdain for the work of the news industry. It also undermines public confidence in the media sector.

The most popular Facebook pages in most regional and rural communities are those of the local news publishing company, yet Meta says people don’t go to Facebook for news or political content.

What about in times of bushfire and floods or when the chips are down and someone in the community needs help? Local experience would suggest otherwise.

If, by Meta’s own admission, Australians don’t go to Facebook for news or political content, then the federal government should

Meta move ‘blackmail’

One of our pet hates at the Voice is the phrase: “Yeah, I read about that on Facebook”.

Gets the hackles up every time.

Yes, the person may have read a news report while on the social media platform, but it is almostcertainthatinformationwasgenerated elsewhere.

Facebook doesn’t employ journalists to engage with local communities and report information relevant to readers. We do.

Facebook, as a US-based tech giant, doesn’t have a physical presence in those communities. We do.

Facebook doesn’t attend the local meetings and events that matter and report on what happens. We do.

Facebook doesn’t campaign on the important social issues or infrastructure needs of local communities. We do.

Facebook doesn’t support great local causes across the west. We do.

Yes,theVoice andothermediaorganisations use Facebook as one of the many platforms to disseminate the news we produce, along with print products and various websites.

But the news people read on Facebook is produced elsewhere; by companies like ours that pay people to provide that service.

What Facebook does bring to the ‘news’ conversation are the various noticeboard sites that pop up that offer rumours and misinformation.

Police investigating the disappearance of Ballarat mother Samantha Murphy had to appeal to people to stop theorising about the case on social media sites, some of which were created specifically for that case.

Thisrumourandinnuendowasn’tspreadby traditional media, but through the unfettered social media channels.

Facebook has for years happily hosted our more legitimate and responsible content and made trillions of dollars from the eyeballs it attracts.

A few years back industry heavyweights

The federal government must act to give assurance to our industry and to support the democratic infrastructure that is the newspaper industry. And it needs to move swiftly, decisively and with purpose. We need government to support the news industryandinvokethenewsmediabargaining code.

Facebookreapedthebenefitsofourmembers’ unique local content for many years, and has paid those local and regional publishers for only the last three years and will now not renew their agreement with CPA.

heed the advice of Meta and immediately cease advertising on Meta’s platforms.

Sadly, jobs will definitely be lost as a result of Meta’s decision, but it’s hard to put a number on this.

Given the already well-documented challenges our industry faces, this announcement will force many publishers to confront the issues ahead of them and cut staff.

The reaction from our members in the aftermath of the announcement has been one of deep concern, alarm and even anger.

A democracy cannot function without a healthy news sector, and this is now heavily at risk in regional and local communities after Meta’s decision.

It is important that the federal government responds swiftly to this decision and considers all possible action including designating Meta under the News Media Bargaining Code and other options available to them and the ACCC.

It is vital that news media is adequately compensated for the content that Facebook has been able to build their business from over many years and ensure a strong and robust news media industrywhichisvitalforahealthydemocracy. It is also vital that the federal government ensures strong support of the industry now more than ever before and ensures the News Media Assistance Program (News MAP) is finalised urgently.

Right: Country Press Australia president Andrew Schreyer. (Supplied)

A delightful feast for the lorikeets

I have two persimmon trees in my garden that have been full of fruit.

I picked half the fruit that I could reach and left fruit at the top of the trees for the birds.

Every day there has been a large flock of around 30 rainbow lorikeets eating the persimmons. They have made so much noise from calling and fighting with each other over individual fruit that I’m surprised that there hasn’t been a few brown goshawks lurking in the garden, as I think they could be heard quite a distance away.

They have also made such a mess, with persimmon pieces scattered under the trees, whichhavebeenmuchappreciatedbycommon blackbirds and red wattlebirds.

Even New Holland honeyeaters have been attracted to the half-eaten persimmons. There have been a few musk lorikeets in the flock as well.

It’s been interesting to photograph the rainbow lorikeets, as there are some atypical hybrid lorikeets around the Bellarine Peninsula. Three Lorikeet species have been interbreeding and hybridising to produce birds with some unique markings in this area, namely escaped cage scaly-breasted lorikeets, musk lorikeets and rainbow lorikeets. This produces some very unusual looking lorikeets indeed.

I was also hoping that a few purple-crowned or little lorikeets may pay my garden a visit, but unfortunately, I did not spot any of these

species. One of the birds in my photos looks like a musk lorikeet crossed with a rainbow, as it had similar head colouring to the musk species and was smaller in size like a musk lorikeet as well.

On my way home from work one day I had a close encounter with a brown falcon near Barwon Heads Airport. It stayed on the fence post while I photographed it.

My oldest friend, who I went to primary

school with many years ago, has been sending me photos of a kiwi sanctuary and albatross sanctuary from the South Island of New Zealand, which has made me green with envy. My bucket list is growing.

I received an email from Carole, who was photographing Pacific gulls at the Queenscliff Ocean Beach when she noticed the differences inbillcolourbetweenthejuvenilebirds.Oneof the youngsters had a darker bill than the other.

Carole knew previously about the variety of colours between adults and young however was unaware of the differences between the juvenile bills.

The immature Pacific gulls have dark brown wings, whitish mottled body and a white/brown bill that will slowly turn into a black-tipped yellow bill. The older the young bird becomes, the less brown the bill becomes.

Carole also ventured to Swan Bay near the pier, where she was amazed at the number of birds, as the water level is low enough for all to feed. Carole has never seen so many royal spoonbills all together feeding. The other birds in good numbers are pelicans, all different cormorant species, silver gulls and crested terns.

I received an email from Alan, who I spent a morning around Point Lonsdale lighthouse where two nankeen kestrels were roosting – a perch with a view. They were not shy, flying in as close as a few metres to pounce on crickets. A black-shouldered kite was also hovering nearby looking for a catch in the bushes whilst keeping an eye on the kestrels.

Alan took a photo of a black-shouldered kite about to swallow a mouse whole. Alan noted that Lake Victoria is awfully dry, as is Blue Waters Lake.

Two Latham’s snipe are still at Blue Waters Lake and the five juvenile swans have not been kicked out of home by their parents yet; they must be about seven to eight months old.

Alan wondered whether the swans would continue to breed or not due the dry weather and low water levels. They have had three clutches about six months apart and usually boot the teenagers out at about six months whenthenewchickshatch,soAlanwouldhave expectedtoseesomenewcygnetsbynow.Alan commented that perhaps the swans are better long-range weather forecasters than our BOM.

Top left: Alan’s black-shouldered kite about to devour a mouse. Top right: Jen’s rainbow lorikeets. Left: Carole’s spoonbills at Swan Bay. Right: Alan’s nankeen kestrel at Point Lonsdale.

‘‘ The disappointment of that hit me really hard, because that one, I was confident ... It really shattered me ’’

- Jacob Scheuler

Badminton star takes on world

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.

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, which also led to the realisation of one 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 thisyear,anchoringthesinglesforadominant 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.

“Iwasgenerallyhappywithmyperformance at Oceania, although I was disappointed not to make the final,” Jacob said.

“But it’s been a solid workout, and the wins in the men’s and women’s teams events was great.”

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 been selected for, although due to the pandemic he has only competed in the 2018 edition of the event.

However, even given his success over the past 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.

“It really shattered me, the way it was handled 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

Jacob Scheuler in action. (Pictures: Supplied)

Understanding individuals with disability

Disabilityisanaspectofthehumanexperience that touches the lives of millions around the world.

It encompasses a wide range of conditions, affecting people physically, intellectually, or emotionally.

Embracing diversity means acknowledging and appreciating the unique abilities and perspectives that individuals with disability bring to society. In this article, we will explore the various facets of disability, challenge common misconceptions, and discuss the importance of creating an inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.

Understanding disability

Disability is not a monolithic concept; it is diverse and multifaceted. It includes physical disabilities, such as mobility impairments, visual or hearing impairments, intellectual disabilities, and mental health conditions. Each person’s experience of disability is unique, shaped by their individual circumstances, abilities, and the environment they navigate.

It is crucial to recognise that disability do not define individuals; they are just one aspect of who they are. People with disability have talents, skills, and aspirations that contribute to the rich tapestry of human experience. By understanding and respecting these differences, we can move towards a more inclusive society.

Common misconceptions

Despite efforts to raise awareness, there are still prevalent misconceptions surrounding disability. One common misconception is that individuals with disability are limited in their abilities or potential. In reality, many people with disability lead successful lives, pursuing

careers, engaging in social activities, and contributing to their communities.

Another misconception is that disability is a static condition. However, disability is often dynamic, influenced by factors such as advances in medical treatment, assistive technologies, and changes in social and environmental conditions. It is important to view disability through a lens of capability and adaptability rather than limitation.

Creating an inclusive society

Building an inclusive society involves dismantling physical and attitudinal barriers

that may prevent individuals with disability from fully participating in all aspects of life. This includes accessible infrastructure, inclusive education, and employment opportunities. Governments, businesses, and communities play crucial roles in fostering an environment where everyone can thrive.

Education is a powerful tool for dispelling myths and promoting understanding. By incorporating disability awareness into school curricula, we can instill empathy and acceptance from a young age. Businesses can also contribute by adopting inclusive hiring practices, providing reasonable

accommodations, and fostering a workplace culture that values diversity.

The role of technology

Advancements in technology have played a transformative role in improving the lives of individuals with disability. From screen readers and voice recognition software for the visually impaired to mobility aids and prosthetics, technology has opened up new possibilities and avenues for inclusion. However, it is essential to ensure that these technologies are accessible and affordable for all.

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

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 managing continence issues.

Carly’sexpertiseliesinconductingthorough assessments, focusing on urinary and faecal incontinence, skin integrity, diet, nutrition, physical and mental health, and neurological factors.

Her holistic methodology helps identify the root causes of incontinence, allowing her to craft tailored care plans for her patients.

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 training programs.

In her personal life, Carly is a dedicated mother and community member. She coaches netballfortheQueenscliffNetballandFootball Club and volunteers with Netball Victoria, teaching primary students the essential skills of the sport. In her leisure time, Carly enjoys fishing and immersing herself in the tranquillity it offers.

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.

DISABILITY SERVICES

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.

“WhenIventuredoutonmyown,Annaand 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,tailoredto 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)

Ph:

Round 1

Saturday 30th March Vs QUEENSCLIFF @ Queenscliff

Round 2

Saturday 6th April Vs PORTARLINGTON @ Home

Round 3

Saturday 13th April Vs TORQUAY @ Torquay

Round 4

Saturday 20th April Vs BARWON HEADS @ Home

Round 5

Saturday 27th April Vs MODEWARRE @ Home

Round 6

Saturday 4th May

Vs GEELONG AMATEURS @ Geelong Amateurs

Round 7

Saturday 18th May Vs NEWCOMB @ Newcomb

Round 8

Saturday 25th May Vs DRYSDALE @ Home

Round 9

Saturday 1st June Vs ANGLESEA @ Home

Round 10

Saturday 8th June Vs PORTARLINGTON @ Portarlington

Ph:

Round 11

Saturday 15th June Vs QUEENSCLIFF @ Home

Round 12

Saturday 22nd June Vs TORQUAY @ Home

Round 13

Saturday 29th June Vs BARWON HEADS @ Barwon Heads

Round 14

Saturday 13th July Vs MODEWARRE @ Modewarre

Round 15

Saturday 20th July Vs GEELONG AMATEURS @ Home

Round 16

Saturday 27th July Vs NEWCOMB @ Home

Round 17

Saturday 3rd August Vs Drysdale @ DRYSDALE

Round 18

Saturday 10th August Vs ANGLESEA @ Anglesea

FINAL SERIES

Finals Commence

August 17th

Grand Final

Saturday 7th September

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 grandioseplanofdoingwhatwe’redoingnow.”

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 wehadamanageroranykindofinfrastructure 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.”

OceanAlleyheadlineHereComestheSunat 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 comes to the Potato Shed on 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

Matt Hewson

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

Jenny wins first writing comp entry

There were 15 entries for our first competition this year. Although this number was a bit disappointing, the quality of all entries was of a high standard, especially the winner, Jenny Macaulay. There were two highly commended stories: John Farrington with his very clever surprise humorous ending and Christine Scheiner with her moving love story.

Judges’ Comment: Jenny’s story for the topic, Snowed Under, used this theme well, constructed a tight story with an effective suggestionofsciencefictionplusanunexpected ending with a touch of humour.

Don’t forget to look at the advertisement in today’s Voice; newcomers over 16 are very welcome. – Alan Cobham

Snowed Under

By Jenny Macaulay

It was exquisite. A delicate wisp of white thread wound through the brown hairs near the base of the rhizome. The fern itself was just 30 centimetres above ground. Having never seen one quite like it before, Tina had no idea how tall it might grow. The internet had provided information on similar varieties but she’d found no fern quite like this one.

Taking a photo to a nursery was not an option as its origin might be questioned and she knew the truth would be more than frowned upon. She had dug up the fern while on a photographic mission and carried it, with difficulty, in her backpack along a dark, damp

trail through a remote section of the Otway Ranges. It would look magnificent in the fernery she’d had Perry construct for her some years before. Only briefly had she considered the legalities or morals of removing native flora from a national park.

Under Tina’s instructions, Perry cleared the aspidistra growing thickly over the remains of Snowy, the Scottish terrier which had provided him with the warmth lacking in his mundane marriage. Tina’s frequent retort that he loved that dog more than he loved her, was justified. After Snowy’s sudden death Perry had been stricken with grief and requested an autopsy, but this had been swiftly swept aside on financial grounds. The vet, however, suggested rat bait as a possible cause.

At a depth of 30 centimetres, Perry’s spade struck Snowy’s resting place, the wooden box already spongy with decomposition. He lowered the fern gently on top of it, backfilled and watered it in, silent tears trickling over the tangle of tiny capillaries that meandered across his cheeks.

Two days later, Perry heaved a suitcase from the boot of their yellow Toyota Yaris and blew Tina a customary kiss as she pulled away from Avalon Airport. The five-year reunion of his siblings was a ritual since they were in their 30s. This year it was a week in Maroochydore, spouses included as always. Tina had not, however, attended for the previous 20 years.

On Monday the temperature was 27 degrees. Unusually warm for November. When Perry

returned she’d have him put a watering system in the fernery. She finished her cup of English breakfast tea, slipped on her special purple garden Crocs and wandered down to the fernery, unlooping the hose from its stand and turning the tap on along the way. She walked around the south side of the garden shed watering clumps of hyacinths that lined the woodchip path to the fernery, and aimed the gentle spray towards her new fern. She stopped abruptly and turned the nozzle to the side. The fern’s trunk was completely covered in the soft white hairs, each about half a finger in length, swaying gently in the morning breeze. She bent forward to stroke them and was surprised at their stickiness and a slight stinging sensation, as if she’d brushed against nettle. She ran her hand under the hose until the pain subsided.

While grotesque in some way, the growth was actually quite spectacular, reminding her of those ridiculous science fiction stories Perry loved, where globs and blobs of unworldly matter invade the Earth. She couldn’t wait for her photographic group to see it the following morning when they were to come for their monthly meeting.

Tinaturnedtosquirtthehoseonthevegetable garden and didn’t see the sudden rapid spread of tendrils from around the base of the fern. Mycelium-like, they raced towards her across the heavily mulched ground. They reached her Crocs and wrapped around her calves, forcing her to fall flat on her back sending sprays of

Jenny Macaulay

Jenny Macaulay is a retired primary school teacher enjoying life in Portarlington facilitating art and writing groups between gardening and just appreciating a relaxed lifestyle.

Jenny organises activities where others can enjoy the experience of writing in its many forms. She facilitates a poetry group in Geelong under the umbrella of Geelong Writers and runs the Portarlington Haiku Society where members participate in a monthly competition. She and a colleague also organise the Midwinter Words writers’ weekend which will be enjoying its 10th year this August after a break since the COVID years.

Jenny also runs a drawing class at the Portarlington Neighbourhood House and the occasional Sumi e workshops (Japanese ink painting) and nature journaling workshops for Bellarine Bayside Coastal Management. In her spare time she enjoys painting small watercolours of Bellarine’s beautiful surrounds.

water into the air. Before she could scream, the white growth, now pulsating and bulging like swollen bread dough, smothered her entire body.

The photographic group knocked, but seeing the side gate ajar, wandered into Tina’s backyard ready to take shots, having heard all about her new fern. Finding a few fronds poking out of the top of a mound resembling thick snow, they focussed their cameras on the amazingphenomenon.Ontheedgeofthemass sat a pair of purple Crocs, and panic erupted briefly when a large rat squirmed out of one of them and shot across the garden towards the house. A fine mist of water spouted, like a fountain, from the mound’s centre.

The cameras clicked on.

“Tina must be inside baking scones,” suggested one of the party.

HONOURABLE MENTION

Snowed Under

By John Farrington

He would never have believed how busy it could be to be a stay-at-home dad. But in the two months since the arrival of their first-born baby he felt absolutely overwhelmed and snowed under by the need to provide relentless attention to the little one.

When he and his partner had taken the first steps to create a new life, it had all been love, fun, tenderness and excitement, but those few minutes of fun had quickly translated into weeks of hardship. On many occasions he had questioned the wisdom of the decision, and the act of love had turned out to be a once

only event!

Was it really only nine weeks ago that he was free to go to pursue his favourite pastime of fishing with his mates on a regular basis?

He had also previously been very proud of his appearance. He had been particularly happy with the flashy silver and white coat in which he used to get about, but along with the rest of his life that had become a dull, grey mess.Everythingabouthispastlifeseemedlike just a distant memory, and he wondered if he’d ever get back to living his hedonistic bachelor lifestyle.

At times, he did realize that in his carefree past he’d become quite self-centred, and he’d evenbecomeabitportly.Ashereflectedonthis further, he recognized that it was lucky he was carryingafewextrakilospriortotakingonthis new role because he was now so busy, he barely had time to eat, and he couldn’t remember the last time he’d eaten any fresh food.

His partner was now the one who brought back all the food for the family, and the feeling of being stuck in the same area all the time made him long for the days when he could roamwhereverhismoodtookhim.Henowfelt a great weight of gloom pressing down on him.

And his partner did seem to be gone for long periods, and on more than one occasion he started to wonder if she was off looking for another partner; one who wasn’t fat and dirty and dishevelled. He felt so low that he could hardly blame her if she did look for another male companion.

The weather was certainly not helping his mood either. The winds felt like blizzards that were carrying the coldest air and tiny bullets of frozen ice from the very bottom of the planet.

His feet radiated a permanent ache from the cold air and he couldn’t remember the last time hehadachancetoliedownandjusttakeiteasy.

The only solace to his situation was that there were a number of other guys in exactly the same situation, and they all kept each other company on a regular basis. They all looked as unkempt as each other and complained of the same things that were driving him crazy but their constant racket didn’t exactly lift his mood.

He couldn’t recall what it was like for his dad, but he was pretty sure he wouldn’t have been the sort of guy to stay at home while his partner was off doing who knows what, but

John Farrington received an Honourable Mention.

then he couldn’t be sure. He imagined his dad was not the sort to be bossed around as had only a very vague memory of him and he disappeared off the scene almost straight after the young fella was born. Maybe he had also been a stay-at-home dad and after one tour of duty had decided that was enough for him and simply shot through.

Just when he thought it couldn’t get any worse, the icy rain turned into snow, driven by two-hundred-kilometre hour winds and the snowdrifts started to build up around him and his male companions.

The racket of protests from all the other guys increased into a cacophony of screeches and all he could do was to join them and reflect on the fact that while male Emperor Penguins may be regarded as the fathers of the year, he’d have been happier if he’d been an Albatross or Fur Seal instead.

Savour the flavours of autumn

The Bellarine Peninsula is not only renowned for its stunning beaches and charming towns but also for its thriving food scene.

As autumn gets into full swing, the landscape offers a bounty of seasonal produce and culinary delights to explore. From farm-fresh ingredients to artisanal delicacies, here’s a taste of autumn food on the Bellarine Peninsula.

Freshly harvested produce

Autumn on the Bellarine Peninsula heralds the arrival of a cornucopia of freshly harvested fruits and vegetables. Visit local farms and orchards to pick your own apples, pears, and quinces straight from the trees. The cooler temperatures also bring forth an abundance of pumpkins, squash, and root vegetables, which are showcased in hearty soups, roasted dishes, and comforting pies at farm-to-table restaurants and markets across the peninsula.

Seafood spectacular

With its proximity to the bountiful waters of Port Phillip Bay and the Southern Ocean, the Bellarine Peninsula boasts an exceptional array of seafood offerings during the autumn months. Sample succulent locally caught fish such as snapper, flathead, and whiting, or indulge in fresh mussels from Portarlington. Pair your seafood feast with a glass of crisp local wine from one of the peninsula’s renowned wineries for a truly unforgettable dining experience.

Artisanal producers and markets

Autumn is the perfect time to explore the vibrant food markets and artisanal producers that dot the Bellarine Peninsula. From handmade cheeses and small-batch preserves to freshly baked bread and pastries, these markets offer a treasure trove

Artisan wines without compromise

• Sensational setting

• Stunning pizzas, platters & fresh local fare

• Live Music Sundays

• Wine Tastings

• Open Thurs - Sunday 11am - 5pm

1400 Portarlington Rd, Curlewis 03 5253 3180 leuraparkestate.com.au

12606035-SN21-23

of gourmet delights to tantalise your taste buds. Be sure to sample the local honey, olive oil, and specialty meats, which showcase the unique flavours of the region and make for

FLYING BRICK CIDER CO

Funky, Fabulous, Fun.

• Landmark Bellarine venue

• Innovative space

• Delicious food

• 100% naturally crafted ciders

• Luxurious grounds & vineyard

• OPEN 7 Days 11am-5pm

1251 Bellarine Hwy, Wallington 03 5250 6577 flyingbrickciderco.com.au

12606701-KG21-23

comes alive with food and wine festivals celebrating the seasonal bounty and culinary heritage of the region. Join in the festivities at events such as the Bellarine Taste Trail, where you can embark on a self-guided tour of local wineries, breweries, and artisan producers, sampling their wares along the way.

Cosy cafes and fireside dining

As the weather cools down, there’s no better way to warm up than with a cosy meal at one of the Bellarine Peninsula’s charming cafes or fireside restaurants. Indulge in hearty breakfasts featuring freshly baked pastries and locally roasted coffee, or enjoy leisurely lunches showcasing seasonal ingredients sourced from nearby farms and producers. In the evenings, dine by the glow of a crackling fire and savour sumptuous dinners paired with award-winning wines from the region.

Autumnal desserts and treats

No visit to the Bellarine Peninsula would be complete without indulging in some autumnal desserts and treats. Sample decadent chocolate truffles infused with local liqueurs, or savour freshly baked pies and tarts from Rolling Pin Pies & Cakes. For a truly indulgent experience, treat yourself to a tasting platter of artisanal cheeses accompanied by honeycomb, nuts, and fruit pastes, all washed down with a glass of premium local wine.

perfect souvenirs to take home.

Festival of flavours

Throughout autumn, the Bellarine Peninsula

• Iconic Bellarine winery

• Unrivalled panoramic views

• Contemporary a la carte

• Sophisticated wines

• Lunch / Wine Tastings

• OPEN 7 Days

85 McAdams Lane, Bellarine 03 5251 2223 jackrabbitvineyard.com.au

12606706-RR21-23

From farm-fresh produce to gourmet delights and culinary festivals, autumn on the Bellarine Peninsula offers a feast for the senses that celebrates the best of the season. Whetheryou’reexploringtheregion’sbustling markets, dining at its acclaimed restaurants, or simply enjoying a leisurely meal by the sea, you’re sure to fall in love with the flavours of autumn on the Bellarine Peninsula.

THE RANGE @CURLEWIS

Finesse your form or just for fun.

• Lunch / Dinner / Snacks

• Burger, Beverage & Balls packages

• Barista coffe, beer, wine & cocktails

• OPEN 7 days

1201 Portarlington Rd, Curlewis Ph 5251 1111 curlewisgolf.com.au

12606704-MS21-23

JACK RABBIT VINEYARD

LEURA PARK ESTATE

Emily Traupel and Nigel Maxey cook famous Portarlington mussels at the annual festival. (Ivan Kemp) 382309_03

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Ocean Grove Voice looks back through the pages of our predecessors

8 years ago

March 16 to 29, 2016

Calls for more police officers and CCTV have grown louder after burglars smashed their way into three stores in The Terrace last week.

The burglars used sledgehammers to break into The Groove, Seaside Pizza and Ocean Grove Pizza and Pasta on 9 March.

6 years ago

March 28 to April 10, 2018

The Sheepwash Easter Classic is still going strong after 39 years. The iconic Barwon Heads run attracts hundreds of participants each year and is the major fundraiser for Barwon Heads Primary School.

4 years ago

March 25 to April 7, 2020

Ocean Grove traders are pleading with BellarinePeninsularesidentstoshoplocally as the coronavirus, known as COVID-19, takes hold.

After a quieter than usual summer season, local business owners are being hit hard as the virus spreads and forces the closure of events and gatherings.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Bellarine Women’s Workshop

Portarlington Girl Guides Hall. Meets every second Thursday, and second Saturday of the month.

■ Facebook: Bellarine Women’s Workshop for further details

Book club

Leopold CAE book club meets second Tuesday each month from 6.30pm. Very friendly group. New members welcome.

■ Shirley, 0488 055 969

Chess clubs

For chess fun simply come along and see yourself, play some chess, meet some members, with no obligation to join. We welcome players of all abilities. Ocean Grove, Tuesdays at 1.30pm at 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove; Portarlington, Mondays at 9.30am, Parks Hall, 87 Newcombe Street, Portarlington; and St Leonards, Thursdays at 9.30am, unit 2 1375-1377 Murradoc Road, (on Blanche Street), St Leonards.

■ Ralph, 0431 458 100 (Ocean Grove), Rob, 5259 2290 (Portarlington), Lyn, 5292 2162 (St Leonards)

Carpet bowls

Leopold Hall 805-809 Bellarine Highway, Leopold on Wednesday and Friday from 1pm to 3.15pm. Admission: $4 includes afternoon tea.

■ 0400 500 402

Ocean Grove Senior Citizens

101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove

Weekly

2 years ago

March 25 to April 7, 2022

Ocean Grove’s crime rate fell in 2021, latest Crime Statistics Agency data reveals. Property and deception offences in Ocean Grove fell from 218 to 177, while crimes against the person decreased from 98 to 77.

■

and activities.

is 5pm Tuesday.

■ oceangroveday.viewclub@gmail.com

Drysdale Day VIEW Supporting The Smith Family for fun and friendship while supporting disadvantaged Students. Meetings at Portarlington Golf Club for lunch on the fourth Friday of each month.

■ Margaret, 0431 636 090

Ocean Grove Evening VIEW Meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 6.30pm. Email oceangroveevening.viewclub@gmail.com for details.

■ 0428 546 796

Ocean Grove on Barwon Probus Meets 9.45am for 10am every third Wednesday at Ocean Grove Golf Club.

■ gwen.anne.james@gmail.com

Fortnightly

CWA 1st & 2nd Thursday 7.30pm

Monthly Stamp club 4th Wednesday 10am, inhouse Movies 3rd Wednesday 1.30pm.

■ Dianne, 5255 1372

Cards

Tuesday: snooker 1pm, chess, indoor bowls 1.15pm. Wednesday: bingo 1.15pm, ukulele class 2pm, chord chord jam session 4pm. Thursday: snooker 1pm, cards 500, social afternoons 1.15pm. Friday: art classes 9am.

Ocean Grove Seniors play card game 500 every Thursday at 1.15pm. If you are new to the game a quick lesson will get you in play. The core group of six players adjust to any number and you will enjoy the

friendship of like-minded players. Cost: $20 annually and coffee included. At 102 The Terrace, Ocean Grove.

■ Lyn, 5256 2540

TOWN club

The Springs TOWN Club (Take Off Weight Naturally) meets Mondays, 9-10.30am at the Community Hub, 23 Eversley Street, Drysdale. Weigh-in, group therapy and regular relaxation sessions. Cost: $5 per session, $54 annual fee.

■ Bev, 0421 636 830

Ocean Grove Day VIEW Meets second Wednesday of the month, 10.30am for 11am.

Drysdale Ladies Probus Club Meets at 10.30am on the fourth Monday of each month at the Clifton Springs Golf Club.

■ Lorraine, 0412 805 858

Afternoon tea dance

Life Activities Club [Geelong Inc] hosts an afternoon tea dance on Thursdays, 2-4pm, at Belmont Park Pavilion. Entry: $5.

■ 5251 3529

CWA Drysdale Meets Drysdale RSL, Princess St, Drysdale on the second Tuesday of the month. Meetings start at 1pm followed by afternoon tea. Friendly group looking to recruit new members.

■ Jenni, 0452 258 333

Scottish country dancing classes

GOG Scottish Country Dance classes 7.30pm Tuesdays at Leopold Hill Hall, $5. No partner needed, just comfy casual clothing and flat shoes.

Out and about

Voice photographer Ivan Kemp was out and about at Barwon Heads on Tuesday. He ventured to the river beach next to the Barwon Heads Bridge.

1/ Alanna Halsal with Bonnie. 2/ Shelley McDonald with grandson Felix. 3/ Fred who was at the beach with his grandad. 4/ Michelle and Chris Sawyer with children Ruby and Charlee. 5/ Lani Ryan and daughter Zoe. 6/ Bruce Irwin with grandson Gabe. 7/ Laura. 8/ Marg Gull, Emma Trigg with her daughters Elsie and Nina. 9/ Danielle and Toby Spiller with their daughter Rosie. 10/ Alison Farran with her son Johnny and Margaret Fleming with her son Oscar. 11/ Jo White with Riva. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 396060

No.

To

in: 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

WORDFIT

3 LETTERS

4 LETTERS

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

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

No. 177

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)

Grubbers primed for opener

By Justin Flynn

Ocean Grove begins its 2024 Bellarine Football Netball League season on Good FridaywithhomeclashesagainstQueenscliff.

A bumper crowd is expected at Ray Menzies Oval for a full round of football and netball games.

Ocean Grove senior football coach Dave Farrell said the club was looking forward to the start of the season.

“Easter is a great time to be in Ocean Grove and I’m sure the excitement will continue to build up to a great day on the field and courts,” he said.

Farrell said the senior side had enjoyed a solid preseason.

“As far as our list goes, the last 18 months have been about consolidating the position of our list and making sure year on year we could develop within rather than continue to search for a new starting point,” he said.

“Player retention has been great and growth of individual players over preseason gives us some confidence internally we can sustain or exceed the level of our performances on the back end of last season that saw us competitive against all sides in the competition.”

Former Geelong listed player Nick Bourke

will assist Farrell as a playing assistant coach this season.

“We have built our coaching team and off field support to make sure we can support the players’ growth and get everything we can out of the season,” Farrell said.

“We’re super proud of the representation at Falcons Under 16 and 18 level with a record number of players making these lists and expected to work closely with our senior group this season and beyond.”

Ocean Grove takes on Queenscliff on Good Friday from 2.10pm while the Grubbers A Grade netball side starts off its premiership defence at 1.45pm. Dave Farrell.

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 closer tussle with Western Heights Uniting just 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 withathreerubberstoonevictoryoverMoolap.

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, while in 5 Open the club had a win over

Snapper are biting back

ON THE BITE

Peri Stavropoulos

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 timetogetoutthereandtrytoloadupon 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.

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.

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

Voice photographer Ivan Kemp was at Collendina Recreation Reserve for the A2 Grade semi-final between Collendina and St Leonards and at Ray Menzies Oval for the B1 Grade game between Ocean Grove and Armstring Creek while Justin Flynn was at RT Fuller Oval for the A1 Grade Barwon Heads vs Armstrong semi. Attention now turns to the grand finals this weekend.

Left: Taj Don in action for Barwon Heads. Centre: Clay Mulgrew was again brilliant for the Titans. Right: Collendina’s Corey Walter gets Dinayadura De Silva to edge this delivery to Richard Brown.

(Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 395794 / 394825

Ocean Grove’s Jacob Taylor gets an edge to this David Stretton delivery.

Armstrong Creek’s Brent Smith celebrates a catch.

Ben Hanson drives for Ocean Grove.

Brook Grumont is run out.

Paul Buckley plays defensively to this Stan Grazotis delivery.

Matthew Kennedy drives.

Above: Clay Mulgrew was again brilliant for the Titans.

Below: Daniel Donaldson was superb for the Heads with 4/48 from 23.4 overs.

Heartbreak for Grovers

Ocean Grove went down by one shot to Highton in the Geelong Bowls Region Premier Division grand final at Belmont on Sunday March 17. Despite the heartbreaking result, the Grovers had a great season and are sure to be back in the mix next season.

Left: Max Rowley leads off for Ocean Grove. Centre: Matt Flapper shows his style. Right: Michael West concentrates on this shot. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 394821

Left: Tyson Cromie looks for the right line. Right: Craig Rippon leads for the Grovers.

Above: Glenn Baudinette leads off. Left: Chris Price looks in action.

Callum Hanna looks to get close.

Peter Loe looks to save the end.

Wayne Firth plays the backhand.

Michael Sloper concentrates.

Bradley Pavey follows his bowl down the rink.

Seas, Gulls in A1 decider

By Justin Flynn

BarwonHeadsandAngleseawillfightitoutfor the Bellarine Peninsula Cricket Association A1 Grade premiership this weekend after winning their semi-finals.

Barwon Heads made 245 all out on Saturday March 16, but probably fell about 30 short of what it looked like scoring at one stage.

Titans’ skipper Daniel Maclean took 5/57 from 22 overs.

The Melzer brothers - Max and Harry - got the Heads off to a terrific start with an 87-run opening stand.

HarryMelzermade56from73deliveriesand Max Melzer would go on to score a brilliant 95 from 201 balls. Daniel Donaldson contributed 36 from 110 in the middle order.

The Titans lost Chris Marsiglio early the following day, but run machine Clay Mulgrew couldn’t be stopped.

The prolific scorer took his season’s run tally to 787 with a delightful 80, but when he fell, caught on the boundary by Taj Don, there was still a lot of work to do.

Donaldson stepped with his leg-spinners and took 4/48 from 23.4 overs with Armstrong Creek all out for 170.

“That was a tough contest which holds us in good stead for a grand final this week,” Heads 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)theywouldhavetodoalotrighttochase 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’vegotfiveorsixgoodbowlers.We’regoing to have to bat well and we’re looking forward to the opportunity.”

Reigning premiers Anglesea did it the hard way, defending its score of 165 all out on Saturday March 16 and bowling Barrabool out for 145.

Plenty of batters got starts for Anglesea, but nobodyreached50withSimonUmbersplaying an important hand at number seven with an

unbeaten 42 while Ben Harcombe made 34.

Brad Greenwood took 4/64 from 26 overs for Barrabool and spinner Ed Morrison was simply outstanding with 4/49 from 30.3 overs.

In reply, the Bulls got close, but quick Darcy Elliott took 3/29 while Ollie Huby, Ky Eskrigge and Steve Nicholson took two each to send Anglesea into yet another grand final.

“I think it’s always good to be challenged and see how the boys go in those situations,” Anglesea skipper Dylan Taylor 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.”

Anglesea will play Barwon Heads at 1pm at Bob Pettitt Reserve, Jan Juc, in the final on March 23 and 24 with a reserve day set down for March 30 if needed.

Cobras and Hawks set for showdown

Collendina and Drysdale will fight it out this weekend for promotion to next season’s Bellarine Peninsula Cricket Association A1 Grade after both sides won their way through to the A2 Grade grand final.

Collendina thrashed St Leonards at CollendinaonMarch16and17withacomplete team performance.

The Saints won the toss and batted first, but were all out for 117 in the 51st over.

Brian White top scored with 30, but it was star all-rounder Corey Walter who again took the bowling honours with 3/20 while seamer Ted Farrell took 2/30 with Angus Peters, Stan Grazotis and Dean Britt all chipping in with one each.

Nathan Frye (33) and Aidan Foard (39) saw the Cobras safely to stumps and at 1/89 the

match was effectively over.

Ben Ricardo (27 not out) and Grazotis (19 not out from 11 balls) got the winning runs with Dina losing just three wickets.

The other semi-final was a high-scoring affair with Drysdale posting 242 on day one against old foes Portarlington.

Nobody made it to 50, but the Hawks had many contributors.

JasonMalcolm(49),BenSpencer(37),Robbie Cutajar(35)andCharlieClode(31)allhadasay in the final total.

Solomon Harvey was Port’s most successful bowler with 4/37 from 15.4 overs and Stephen Illingworth played his part with 4/75 from 21 overs.

After losing two early wickets on day two, Portarlington tackled the run chase beautifully

Grubbers cruise into

final

Ocean Grove and Barrabool will play off for the BPCA B1 Grade premiership at Armstrong Creek West Oval on March 23 and 24.

The Grubbers defeated Armstrong in the semi-final on March 16 and 17 after being sent in and making 7/224.

Skipper David Turner (49), Craig Byron (40 not out), Luke Morrison (38) and Jacob Taylor (37) all got runs for the Grubbers while David Stretton (3/43) was the Titans’ best bowler.

The Ocean Grove attack was able to strangle the Titans’ batters on day two, making scoring difficult.

SpinnerTomKent(4/25from15overs) and Taylor (3/46 from 21) were largely responsible for restricting Armstrong Creek to 170 all out despite a fine 56 from Shaun Trenorden.

Barrabool was too good for Barwon Heads in the other semi with James Laidlaw making 76 out of his side’s 183 all out. Youngster Angus Mackie took 4/44 for the Seagulls in a top display.

In reply, the Heads were all out for 114 with Archer Jaques taking 3/20.

Queenscliff won a thriller in B2 Grade against Barwon Heads.

Jaxon Mallett made 41 in the Heads’ total of 167 with Luke Adam taking 3/54.

On day two, Queenscliff was 6/40 and then 7/95. When Toby Smith departed for 43, the Coutas were 8/113 and almost down and out, but some intelligent batting from captain Alistair Fleming (31 not out from 110 deliveries) and Jack McKenna (20 from 82) got Queenscliff to 9/158.

Youngster William Boyd then played smartly, finishing not out on zero, but faced 15 deliveries while Fleming was able to manipulate the strike and hit the winning runs.

Sam O’Brien couldn’t have done much more for Barwon Heads with 5/69 from 21/4 overs.

The Coutas will meet Wallington in the final at Drysdale Recreation Reserve with Damien Biemans (45) top scoring in a final total of 147. Biemans then took control with the ball to take 5/40 from 25 oversasInverleighwasbowledoutfor98.

Ocean Grove defeated Jan Juc in C Grade but was disqualified, meaning the Sharks will play Barrabool in the final at Armstrong Creek East Oval.

Greg Scarpa (78) again made runs for Grove while Steven Bate (43) and Adam Spiby (43) contributed to the final total of 9/233. Jan Juc was never in the hunt as Ned Thorley (3/6), Billy Foord-Engelsman (2/13 from 14 overs) andWillFinn(2/8)tookwicketswiththe Sharks bowled out for just 62.

with Cameron Gourley (46 from 110 deliveries) playing well.

Illingworth (74 from 135) and David Hambrook (36 from 77) then combined for a hefty partnership and Henry Hatswell chipped in for a run-a-ball 21.

Withonewicketinhandand36runsneeded, Mitch Grinter and Tom Stewart took the score to 228 before Grinter was run out.

For the Hawks, young gun Hayden Eddy took his second consecutive five-wicket haul with an outstanding 5/36 from 16 overs while evergreen David Sykes took 2/64 from 20.

The grand final between Collendina and Drysdale is at Len Trewin Reserve, St Leonards on March 23 and 24.

However, it emerged that Ocean Grove had brought down three players from a higher grade when only two were permitted and the game was awarded to Jan Juc. Shane Stevens made 69 as Barrabool booked a grand final berth by defeating Armstrong Creek by 59 runs.

Wallington and Queenscliff will square off in the D Grade final at RT Fuller Oval, Barwon Heads on Saturday March 23.

Queenscliff won a nailbiter against Jan Juc by one run with Phil Bishop (55) and Michael Philp (47) making runs and Brad Thom taking four wickets.

Matthew Shipsides (73) and Mark Johnson (69) got Wallington to a commanding total of 6/248 against Armstrong Creek.

Michael Bedwell then took three

Justin Flynn

Left: The Collendina slips cordon celebrate a catch. Right: Corey Walter bowled well to end with 3 for 20 off 10.1 overs. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 394825

Barwon Heads’ Daniel Donaldson spun his side to victory against Armstrong Creek. (Justin Flynn) 395794