Beach weather, but not as we know it
It may be the middle of winter and temperatures are struggling to get to the mid-teens, but that didn’t stop Kieran and Joshua Ngang (pictured) from enjoying some time at Ocean Grove main beach on Wednesday July 10. Kieran and Joshua didn’t mind the chilly conditions during the final week of school holidays and were keen to play around in the sand.
Today’s top temperature is expected to be a relatively mild 16, before more chilly and wet conditions set in for the weekend and the early part of next week. Top temps are unlikely to surpass 13 degrees with rain predicted for most days.
Overnight minimums won’t get much above 6 degrees.
■ For more beach pics, see page 21.
Major awards for club
Ocean Grove Bowling Club (OGBC) took out two major titles at the Community Clubs Victoria (CCV) 2024 Gala Awards on July 6. EmployeeElleBoyd,whojoinedOGBCmore than a year ago, was awarded the Emerging Young Community Leader Award while the club itself took out the Best Sustainability Initiative Award.
The industry event represented more than 1000 licenced clubs across metropolitan and regional Victoria.
Elle’s story of overcoming adversity and commitment to helping others makes her a true inspiration. Elle, 20, also volunteers at the Salvation Army Op Shop and the Bellarine Outreach Van.
The sustainability award acknowledged OGBC’s dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship, in becoming more efficient with energy usage while transitioning towards a zero-carbon environment through their Solar Project.
OGBC installed 219 solar panels late last year, generating 85kW of clean energy.
“Elle’s journey has been an inspiration to our teamandmembersofourcommunity,showing remarkable determination in overcoming adversityandleadingbyexample,”OGBCchief executive Nathan O’Neill said.
“Through the utilisation of renewable energy, we are lessening our reliance on the carbon-intensive electricity grid, therefore
contributing to a greener and more sustainable future.
“Our aim to partner with like-minded organisations and drive positive change within our community. At the heart of our sustainability initiative is the aspiration to lead by example and inspire others to join us on this journey. We recognise the importance of raising awareness of climate change impacts and adaptation across all facets of our operations.
“Our Solar Project, in conjunction with our long-term sustainability goals and community engagement efforts, serves as a testament to our dedication to creating a more sustainable future for generations to come.”
Elle Boyd won the Emerging Young Community Leader Award. (Supplied)
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Specialist disability home on track
Anewspecially-designedresidenceforpeople living with disability is set for completion this August.
Delivered by a partnership between Geelong-based service provider genU and the Ocean Grove Barwon Heads Lions Club, the new specialist disability accommodation (SDA) will provide a purpose-built home for up to four local people.
CurrentlybeingbuiltbyBDHConstruction and other local tradespeople, the residence boasts four separate bedrooms with ensuites, commonareasandovernightaccommodation for a support worker to provide round the
clock supported independent living.
The SDA will also feature slip resistant flooring, height-adjustable kitchen benches, fall prevention measures, ceiling hoists and solar panels.
Three existing genU clients will move into the new home from their current residence once construction is complete.
Clare Amies, genU chief executive, said the clients had a say in the design of the property, and their input had been invaluable for helping ensure the house met their needs.
“The new specialist home will improve liveability and better support the residents
needs now and into the future,” she said.
“Apurpose-builtdisabilityhomeempowers residents to live with independence and confidence as part of their local community, with tailored support delivered to them in their own home.”
With a cost of $2.3 million, the project was made possible by a $600,000 donation from Ocean Grove Barwon Heads Lions Club.
Ms Amies said the Lions Club’s donation was literally helping build an inclusive community.
“Part of genU’s mission is to help people reach their full potential and we thank
Bigger each year for River’s Gift
The annual State of Origin concept between Ocean Grove Cobras and Glebe Greyhounds junior football clubs just keeps getting bigger.
Each year the Cobras and the inner Sydney-based Greyhounds take turns hosting a weekend of footy games to raise money for River’s Gift, a local charity supporting Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) research.
The State of Origin was founded by two school mates, Cain Sarah now living in Glebe and Harvey Stephenson from Ocean Grove, who got chatting while they were celebrating Christmas together six years ago.
A few beers in, they hatched a plan: to have their sons, separated by border lines, play against each other in a footy trip. They would raise money for their other school mate Karl Waddell’s charity, River’s Gift, established after the death of his son.
This year it was the Greyhounds’ turn to host and a contingent of about 250 Cobras made the trip north. Footy games are just part of the fun and strong friendships have been formed over the years.
“The overall weekend was a massive success,
great fun for everyone and a brilliant time raising funds for River’s Gift as well as two communitiescomingtogether,”CobrasStateof Origin coordinator Aaron White said.
While the final tally won’t be known for some time, Mr White said they hoped to have raised about $35,000 to $40,000.
The event attracted the interest of Channel 7’s Sunrise program, which did a live cross to Glebe.
“Having Sunrise there on the Sunday morning was absolutely brilliant,” Mr White said.
“And they all think that they are Hollywood superstars who have been on TV for three seconds.”
GWS captain Toby Greene attended and the Cobras got to go to Carlton’s Friday training session.
BluesstarSamWalshwasajuniorCobraand gave his time much to the delight of the kids.
“The way he (Greene) interacted with those kids - the bloke is a gem,” Mr White said.
“He knows grassroots, he knows where his support comes from and it’s not from adults,
it’s from these kids and the example that he’s setting for these kids off the field. The poor bugger has probably got arthritis from so many autographs and smiling so much having photos.”
For the record, Glebe won the trophy back from the Cobras, but the results are probably the least important thing. The Cobras are already planning to host next year’s event.
“It’ll be back on our home turf because, unfortunately, we lost both the parents’ trophy and the state of origin trophy this year to Glebe inwhatwasawonderfulbattle,”MrWhitesaid.
“Theydefinitelyhadhomegroundadvantage and the talent that’s being produced out of NSW and the Greyhounds is really starting to match up against their own down here in Victoria, so we’re really looking forward to them coming back down to our home turf for us to hopefully get a win.”
Mr White paid tribute to Pretty’s Prime Cuts Kingston Village and Hodges Real Estate for sponsoring the event with every cent going to River’s Gift.
Justin Flynn
the Lions Cub for seeing the value of this community and wanting to be involved,” Ms Amies said.
Ocean Grove Barwon Heads Lions Club president Bob Marmion said the club was delighted to partner with genU and welcomed news the project was on track.
“This exciting project is the culmination of the Lions Club’s fundraising efforts through its charitable foundation (Barwon Grove Foundation), and its passion over more than 30 years to provide accommodation services for those in need in the community,” Mr Marmon said.
world under the waves
A free Bellarine art exhibition will shine a light on the fragility and beauty of oceanic life through an immersive showcase.
The Hat Rock Contemporary Gallery willhosttheUndertheSea:ACelebration of Oceanic Life exhibition from 11am to 5pm on Wednesdays to Sundays from July 5 to 28.
The solo exhibition will feature individual pieces and a five-metre-wide by close to three-metre-high wall of 21 unique panels by Sydney artist Catherin Bennett.
“This newly released body of work, developed over the past year, celebrates the fragility and beauty of oceanic life,” Ms Bennett said.
“Through it, I aim to inspire a sense of urgency to protect and preserve our oceans’ stunning ecosystems from threats such as overfishing, pollution, and climate change.
“We often forget how fragile our oceans are and how our actions impact them. We are reliant on them being healthy and this makes our protection efforts all the more urgent.”
Ms Bennett said the artworks were “designed to give people an immersive experience” and transport visitors into the “mesmerising world beneath the waves”.
“I’m very excited to see how visitors will feel and react to the incredible colours and movement in each piece,” shesaid.“Somewilldrawthemintolook closely, and others will absorb them and maybe feel insignificant, much like the ocean makes us feel.”
Jena Carr
Ocean Grove Cobras’ Aaron White and River’s Gift’s Karl Waddell are interviewed by Channel 7’s Sunrise. Right: A smoking ceremony was held. (Supplied)
Hold Meta accountable: CPA
By Andrew Schreyer
Last month, Country Press Australia (CPA)
– the largest representative association of newspaper publishers in Australia, appeared before a joint hearing in Canberra into social media and its impacts on Australian society.
The hearing was convened out of concerns about the negative impacts social media platformshaveuponourcommunity,including the recent decision by Meta to no longer pay news publishers for content posted to the company’s platforms.
That announcement has been met with anger, frustration, disappointment, worry and concern among news publishers, and the news industry shares the concerns of the broader community over Meta’s outrageous behaviour that has had such a damaging impact on so many sections of the community.
Facebook particularly has evolved into an antisocial entity that has provided a haven for toxicity, fake news, scams, blackmail, cyberbullying, doxing, revenge porn, trolling, deep fakes, political interference, surveillance capitalism and the spread of mis and disinformation that has caused so much damage within our communities.
The live streaming of massacres, images of unrealistic so-called beautiful people and conspiracies are also part and parcel of social media today.
In the case of the news industry, Communications Minister Michelle Rowland has said Meta’s decision to no longer pay for news content in a number of jurisdictions “represents a dereliction of its commitment to the sustainability of Australian news media,” a comment CPA endorses wholeheartedly.
Meta has shown complete disdain for Australian media outlets, the News Media Bargaining Code and the Australian
government by announcing its intention not to renew agreements with publishers.
Meta has been deemed an unavoidable trading partner, and as such, is expected to conform to the same standards and expectations as the rest of us.
In short, we believe Meta fails to meet those standards, and that the company long ago ceased to be just a provider of social media platforms.
Just last month, the US Surgeon General called for social media to have warnings attached to it over mental health concerns for users.
It’s one of the great paradoxes of our time that rather than tackle unacceptable elements and accept responsibility for the damage caused by providing the habitat for such scornful matter, Meta has instead opted to diminish the presence of the real news and of truth by continually adjusting its algorithms and rendering public interest news content more and more difficult to find.
The federal government has the News Media Bargaining Code at its disposal, a mechanism established to ensure social media platforms can be held to account and that media organisationsaretreatedfairlyintheirdealings with the social media giants.
Should the government designate Meta under the Code, the company is likely to block news sites from its platforms just as it has done in Canada. And in that country, it’s been regional and rural publishers who have been negatively impacted the most.
Inthisinstanceweencouragethegovernment to insert a ‘must carry news’ clause in the code forcing them to negotiate with publishers or impose a 20 per cent tax on Meta’s Australian revenue.
Proceeds from the tax can be used for mental health programs to assist young people negatively impacted by social media, and a component distributed to publishers as compensation for Meta’s use of their content.
If Meta refuses, they should be banned from Australia.
Meta is a publisher just like our members; however, their platforms are not subject to laws including defamation and contempt of court, editorialstandardsandregulatoryframeworks.
If they were, I would not need to write this opinion piece and there would be a lot less social harm and mental health issues in our community today.
Meta’s Facebook has little, if any, checking mechanism prior to content and comments being published. Its algorithms serve up content based on popularity regardless of what may be appropriate for the audience. It has no transparent complaints process, is not held to account in any way and isn’t required to respond to complaints.
It’s one thing to rip billions of dollars out of our economy, but the social, mental and
physical damage caused by what is allowed to prosper on Meta’s platforms takes things to another level.
We believe that as a corporate citizen, Meta has a responsibility to do what is right, just as we as publishers do. Meta’s commercialisation of the negativity it allows to fester on its platforms is a scourge upon that company and has created significant hardship and misery for many Australians.
To suit its narrative and justify its agenda, Meta claims its users don’t go to Facebook for news, however the University of Canberra’s Digital News Report: Australia 2024 released in June found that 49 per cent of Australian users of Facebook use it for news and one in four rely on it as their main source of news –our trusted, independent and professionally written news Meta no longer wants to pay for.
The digital news report shows this year, there was actually a surge among young people turning to social media to get news.
Sixty per cent of Gen Z say social media is their main source of news, a 17-percentage point increase on last year.
In line with the increase in the use of social media platforms for news, concern about what is real and what is fake on the internet has skyrocketed to 75 per cent. This is an increase of 11 percentage points in the past two years and echoes an increase in the global rise of six percentage points over the same period. It suits Meta to claim Australians don’t use the company’s platforms to read the news and for it to be allowed to continue to ride roughshod over our communities.
But it suits the rest of us for Meta to be held to account.
Andrew Schreyer is the president of Country Press Australia, and publisher of the Warragul & Drouin Gazette.
Family members, carers, aged care industry professionals and members of the public have the opportunity to engage with healthcare providers and other industry experts at a free aged care expo.
The Geelong Aged Care Expo 2024 will feature a range of services, resources and information, with over 25 stalls run by service providersfromtheGeelongandSurfCoastarea including Barwon Health, the City of Greater Geelong, Cultura, Geelong Community Foundation and Mercy Health.
Attendees can find out about issues surrounding permanent care, home care, Commonwealthprograms,estateandfinancial planning, medical assessments and support networks for families.
Held at the Norlane Aquatic Recreation Centre on July 25 from 10am to 1pm, the event will be presented by Muirfields Financial Services.
Muirfields financial planner and aged care professional Zac Dodds said the event gave people the opportunity to find out about the processes of aged care and the supports available before it came to crunch time.
“Being able to ask those questions ahead of time and gather information can give you a little bit of peace of mind,” Mr Dodds said. “A lot of the time people have questions but they’re not ready to have a one-on-one meeting. So this is where you can start to find out what Geelong and the surrounds have to offer in the way of help.
“(Aged care) is not just about going to a permanent care facility (or) getting home care. There are a range of services people can get, from needing a little bit of assistance to
needing a lot more. It’s all about knowing where to start.”
MrDodssaidwhiletheseeventsranregularly before the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, this was the first event of its kind in Geelong since then.
“The main message we want to get out is that thiseventisforabsolutelyanyoneandeveryone that is interested in aged care, whether it’s now or in the future,” he said. “The bigger we can make this event (in terms of) the amount of people coming, the more we can continue to expand on this in future years.”
Visit muirfieldfs.com.au/ aged-care-expo-2024 to register for free or to find out more.
Matt Hewson
CPA executive director Peter Kennedy, committee chair Kate Thwaites MP and CPA president Andrew Schreyer. (Supplied)
Muirfields Financial Services’ Zac Dodds and Courtney Wassell. (Louisa Jones) 416730_02
Together for culture
By Jena Carr
A free family-friendly event in Ocean Grove recognised and celebrated the cultural heritage of First Nations people.
NAIDOC Week on the Barwon Coast was held at Mick’s Steps at 10am on Monday, July 8, and featured a Welcome to Country, Traditional Smoking Ceremony and a didgeridoo performance.
Wadawurrung Woman and Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Corporation Cultural Strengthening general manager Corrina Eccles said NAIDOC Week (July 7 to 14) was a time to reflect on the “strong voice and advocacy of Elders”.
“This event, like NAIDOC events around the country, aims to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and their culture,” she said. “It is time we ask all to show recognition and deeply celebrate the longest-living bloodlines, continuing cultural traditions and resilience of First Peoples.
“The NAIDOC Week theme this year is ‘keep the fire burning, loud, blak and proud’, and this event is an example of a meaningful collaboration with Barwon Coast walking beside us.”
Barwon Coast Committee of Management chair Sandy Gatehouse said she respected and honoured the strength of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
“We commit to uplifting Wadawurrung voices and working together to keep Wadawurrung Coastal Country healthy,” she said.
“Barwon Coast keeps the fire burning by ensuring that coastal Country is protected so these places can be enjoyed by future generations.
“This could be through returning language to Country, like the naming of Bukareeyoo last year, or by working together to consult around
how we care for the coast and by facilitating cultural education sessions for our staff.”
Minister for Treaty and First Peoples Natalie Hutchins said NAIDOC Week was a chance to celebrate the spirit of First Peoples and their contribution to Victoria.
“I encourage all Victorians to check out what NAIDOCactivitiesarehappeningintheirlocal communities, to join in and walk with First Peoples as we ‘keep the fire burning’,” she said.
“This NAIDOC Week, I’m excited to see events happening in local communities right across Victoria. This celebration of culture is great to see, and I encourage all Victorians to get involved.”
Brother Bundjil soars for NAIDOC
Geelong’s State Government offices –colloquiallyknownastheupsidedownbuilding – is the canvas upon which Wadawurrung creator spirit Bundjil flies.
A vibrant animated projection of Wadawurrung artist Jenna Oldaker’s work Koki Bundjil (“Brother Bundjil”) is being projected onto the building from the Barwon Water forecourt every evening during NAIDOC Week from 5pm to 11pm.
Created as a giant inflatable art piece for White Night Ballarat last month, Koki Bundjil has been brought to life by the animation of award-winning Geelong-based artist Laura Alice.
Ms Oldaker, a Traditional Owner whose artwork is known for its use of bright colours and connection to Aboriginal culture, Country and heritage, said Koki Bundjil was a celebration of “our beautiful Wadawurrung Country”.
Ms Oldaker said she felt as though her art came from her Ancestors and their spirits.
“I am sharing our culture, our stories and our spirit through my artwork, and to be able to do so is such a gift,” she said.
“I hope this comes through when people see Koki Bundjil projected from Barwon Water’s Ryrie Street headquarters forecourt during NAIDOC Week.”
Wadawurrung man and Barwon Water First Nation Values Department Head Greg Robinson said NAIDOC Week was a time of celebration for First Nations people.
Social justice is the key
Torquay’s Hutch Hussein is the latest Surf Coast Shire Local Legend for helping promote social inclusion across the region andstate.
Ms Hussein’s parents moved from CyprustoAustraliainthe1970sbeforeshe wasborn,motivatinghertoensurethenext generationofrefugeemigrantshadsupport services available. “My mother was 17 when she came here and didn’t know a word of English. She had me at 20, and my father was 24 when he came over on a boat,” she said. “There wasn’t the migrant and refugee settlement services that there are now. So, my mother learned English at the same time as I did watching Play School...anddadlearntEnglishatwork.”
“Making sure that people feel a sense of belonging both socially and economically, and they feel they can contribute, means webenefitfromalltheirtalents.
“I’vespent20yearsofmycareerworking specifically in the refugee and migrant space and it’s really important to make sure people have a positive settlement experience.” The Local Legend Award recognised Ms Hussein’s contributions to First Nations reconciliation through volunteerleadershipandthecreationofthe SurfCoastReconciliationGroup.
ShealsofoundedtheSurfCoastRainbow Familiesgroup,whichhasorganisedsocial gatheringsforfamiliessince2019.
“It’s really exciting and really touching to have been nominated by my colleagues in what was a collective effort of putting a campaign together for the Voice referendum,” Ms Hussein said. “This award belongs to the 900 volunteers who stood up across the Surf Coast region and did their best to make sure that people madeaninformedvote.
“It(SurfCoastRainbowFamiliesgroup) providesanopportunityforpeopletomeet others, share experiences, and be a part of thatsenseofcommunity. “It’salsogetting kidstomeetotherkidswho’vegottwodads or two mums. It can feel a bit isolating if they’re at a school that doesn’t have other rainbowfamilies.”
“In this artwork, Bundjil can be seen flying high over Wadawurrung land, as we send thanks to him for continuing to watch over us since his creation.
“This artwork is a representation of my own kinship guide, my brother Ben, as he takes on the form of our spirit protector.”
“Bundjil the eagle is the spirit creator of Wadawurrung Country, as we live by Bundjil’s lore to take care of one another, to have no greed and do no harm,” she said.
“NAIDOC Week is an opportunity for all Australians to immerse themselves in First Nations cultures and histories and participate in celebrations of the oldest, continuous living cultures on earth.
“Jenna’s artwork, focusing as it does on our creatorspiritBundjil,bringsourancientstories and culture to life in an exciting new way. I encourage everyone to make the time to view it if they can.”
Projection of Jenna Oldaker’s Koki Bunjil. (Ivan Kemp) 418441_04
Corinna Eccles joins children in the Juna (white cockatoo) dance. (Ivan Kemp) 417727_09
Surf Coast Shire’s latest Local Legend Hutch Hussein. (Louisa Jones) 414507_06
Midwinter Words is on again
By Matt Hewson
Ever wanted to write your own whodunnit?
Midwinter Words could be the first step on your path.
The 10th edition of Midwinter Words comes to the Bellarine this August 3 and 4, featuring two leading crime novelists from the region. The event, held in Portarlington since its inception, will be held at two venues in Drysdale this year due to a partnership with Geelong Regional Libraries.
Local author, educator and former editor of Geelong Writers Victoria Spicer will present a full-day workshop at the new Boronggook Drysdale Library exploring all aspects of crime
writing, including crime research, plotting, characters, suspense and red herrings.
Day two will see Portarlington author Rick Wilkinson host a session discussing the craft of writing crime and also include the launch of crime novel Argyle: One Island, Four Voice, written by Jacqui Connor and Midwinter Words founders Jenny Macaulay and Pearl Wilson.
Mr Wilkinson’s session will - aptly for a crime-themed event - be held at Drysdale’s Courthouse Museum.
MsWilsonsaidtheeventbroughtsomething quite different to the region than other writers festivals did.
“Mostwriters’festivalsareforpeopletocome
Creating life from loss
A Drysdale author is honouring the memory of her partner through a new children’s book, Eudena and the Dandelion Puzzle.
Following the story of a little girl who winds up the dandelion clock in her garden as she connects with nature, the illustrated book was launched on Friday July 5.
Glenda MacNaughton discovered the story a few months after her partner Patrick Hughes’ death two years ago when she came across one of his journals.
“I discovered a journal full of his writings from when he was between 18 and 20 years old, he was born in the UK, so it was when he was living in Bristol in the UK,” she said.
“There were different forms of writing in the journal, but one of the first things I found was the story of Eudena and the dandelion clock.
“It was a lovely surprise because it made me
smile as I was reading it. It’s been quite a hard and sad time, so this is a project of the heart.”
Whenshefoundthestory,MsMacNaughton decided she would develop it into a children’s book with the help of illustrator Michelle Collins.
“Through some serendipity, I met up with a local illustrator, Michelle Collins. She was an illustrator looking for words, and I was a person with words looking for an illustrator,” she said.
“She’s done a couple of lovely things because she’s taken photographs I had of Patrick, and he’sbecomesomeofthecharactersinthebook.
“So for those who knew him, they will find images of him in the book, and she (Michelle) based the little girl’s face on a picture of me when I was four years old.”
Jena Carr
and listen to panels, listen to other journalists and writers,” she said. “But ours is about learning to write. It gives people a real insight into actually writing; instead of listening to someone talk about it, they’re actually getting and doing it with guidance.”
Ms Wilson emphasised Midwinter Words was for anyone who wanted to try their hand at writing.
“Sometimes people can feel a bit intimidated about joining in on a writing workshop,” she said.“Youdon’thavetobeaprofessionalwriter. We try to be very welcoming and inclusive so people can just have a go at it.”
Visit trybooking.com/CRJUW for tickets or more information.
to 10pm
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Delivering in Ocean Grove and Leopold Shop 11, Ocean Grove Marketplace, 2-20 Kingston Downs Drive, Ocean Grove
Just $10 delivery fees for outside Ocean Grove.
Victoria Spicer will facilitate a workshop about crime writing at Midwinter Words. (Supplied)
Drysdale author Glenda MacNaughton. (Supplied)
Cafe ready to repair again
By Matt Hewson
A group of dedicated volunteers have come together to revive a local repair cafe, fixing people’s broken items for free.
Repair Cafe Bellarine will officially launch on Sunday, July 21 at the Bellarine Training and Community Hub in Ocean Grove between 12.20pm and 4.30pm, with a range of volunteers skilled in bike repairs, mechanics, electrical, woodwork, knitting and sewing.
The new Repair Cafe Bellarine will follow on from the good work done by the original, which operated successfully from 2018 until
pandemic lockdowns forced it to cease in 2021.
Organiser Andrew Lewis said the grass roots movement could help shift community attitudes toward a more sustainable model.
“We throw away so many household items in Australia, even things which have only minor issues and could easily be used again with the right knowledge and tools,” he said.
“I get a real buzz out of bringing something that was bound for landfill back to doing what it was intended for, while giving a boost to the environment along the way. In some cases, items that are beyond repair can have a second life by being put to another use.
Mr Lewis said by promoting repairs the Repair Cafe aimed to reduce waste, reduce CO2 emissions and help people save money, while also connecting members of the community in new ways.
“Ifyourepairabike,ablenderorafavourite jacket together with a previously unfamiliar neighbour, you look at that person in a different light the next time you see them on the street,” Mr Lewis said.
After the launch event the Repair Cafe Bellarine will run on the third Sunday of every month. Visit facebook.com/ RepairCafeBellarine for more information on volunteering or getting your items fixed.
Briefs
Fire guts Curlewis house
Smoke alarms have saved the occupants of a Curlewis residence that was engulfed in fire last week. CFA was called to the incident at 6.43am on July 2 at Pax Parade. CFA and FRV firefighters fought the fire in the single storey structure which had burnt into the roof space and further spread across the entire structure. A wood heater is believed to be the cause as a result of the fire investigation.
Small biz is go
The 2024 Geelong Small Business Festival (GSBF) program is now live, with ThatsMyFace founder Nadia Lee announced as the event’s keynote speaker. The festival, now in its 14th year, will run more than 50 free and low-cost events from August 12 to 23, with a special launch event at The Pier Geelong on Thursday, August 8. Visit gsbf.com.au for the full festival program and more information on registering for events.
Film night
The North Bellarine Film Festival and the Bellarine Historical Society are presenting the classic comedy film Best In Show on July 14. The film will be screened at Indented Head Community Hall on Sunday July 14 at 2pm. Tickets are $20, which includes light refreshments, and are available at trybooking.com/CSIDA or at the door, subject to availability.
FOR BREAKING NEWS, VISIT Web: oceangrovevoice.com.au Ocean Grove Voice @OceanGroveVoice
The volunteers of Repair Cafe Bellarine. (Supplied)
Monkey Mia Kids run for a cause
Geelong siblings James Urquhart, Alice Urquhart, and Kate Greig are following in their father Andrew Urquhart’s footsteps to raise money for Parkinson’s research. As the siblings prepare for a half-marathon in Cairns on Sunday, July 14, they speak with Jena Carr about their dad’s Parkinson’s and advocacy journey.
When Andrew Urquhart was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease more than nine years ago, he didn’t let his diagnosis stop him and began a journey of advocacy.
The Barwon Heads man has embarked on many challenging adventures with friends, known as the Monkey Mia Boys, to raise money for Parkinson’s research through the Shake It Up Foundation.
The Monkey Mia Boys are now passing the baton to Andrew’s children, James Urquhart, Alice Urquhart, and Kate Greig.
James said his dad has done a lot to raise awareness for Parkinson’s disease, with one of Monkey Mia Boys’ biggest journeys involving crossing the country on motorcycles.
“Most of the (dad’s) fundraising has been through the outback 4WD adventures he and a bunch of mates, including fellow Parkinson’s sufferer and great mate, Noel Passalaqua, have made,” he said. “The original trip back in 2018 was made by taking the route with the least bitumen as possible from the westernmost point of Australia to the easternmost point, being Monkey Mia (Western Australia) to Byron Bay (New South Wales).
“Hence the name Monkey Mia Boys was born. Over the following six years and four trips criss-crossing the country, the Monkey Mia Boys have raised over $260,000 for Shake It Up.”
The siblings will follow in their dad’s footsteps as the Monkey Mia Kids and travel 2800km from their homes in Geelong to participate in the Cairns half-marathon on Sunday, July 14.
Kate said that she and her siblings felt as prepared for the half-marathon as possible and werelookingforwardtodoingtheruntogether.
“The competitive spirit is strong between us, with plenty of photos and run statistics being shared post-run,” she said.
“Whilst we all live in Geelong, it’s quite rare that we get to spend much time as the three of us together, so that’s also been nice.
“Westartedpoundingthepavementasmuch as we could, trying to get a decent ‘longer run’ in on the weekend and a few shorter ones during the week.
“We have nine kids between us, so a big thanks goes to our – very patient – other halves letting us head out for a few hours each weekend to get the kilometres in our legs.”
Alice said her dad had been a “real inspiration” for the whole family, and she was glad to continue his legacy.
“Dad’s own passion and dedication to raise funds and awareness for Parkinson’s has inspired us beyond words,” she said.
“Since Dad’s diagnosis, not once has he let
his condition bring him down or define him, but he’s fought his own battle with strength, courage and unselfish determination to help make a difference.
“We know now because we’re watching first-hand how Parkinson’s can affect people. Sadly, it’s just such a growing disease, and so manyAustraliansareaffectedbyiteverysingle day.
“Dad has continually made it about others and not him, but he’s also so proactive in everything he does. He’s always doing all the things he’s supposed to do.
“He keeps fit, active, and social, which are reallygreatthingstodoforParkinson’sdisease, and he’s never stopped doing anything.
“It’s amazing to see that now with his own diagnosis, it’s something he’s continued to do, andhe’sturnedhisownnegativeintoapositive for so many others.”
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive and degenerative neurological condition affecting
the control of someone’s body movements. Alicesaidherdadwasoneofthemostselfless people she and her siblings had ever known, even before his diagnosis.
“We grew up in the bush and Dad has always been a huge contributor to the community,” she said. “(He’s been) on every local board or committee and volunteering his time by helping to save the local hospital or rebuild the community golf club.
“Everything he does is always for everybody else,andthat’sbeenthecaseinhislifebeforehe was even diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. So, to see this sense of giving take on a whole newlifethroughhisParkinson’sistruetoform, but it is something we’re constantly in awe of.”
Parkinson’s disease affects close to 200,000 Australians, with 38 people diagnosed every day, according to Shake It Up Foundation’s data.
James, Alice and Kate collectively said they were “incredibly proud” of how their dad
turned his story into a way to help others.
“If we can play our small part in raising money for research, and to help find a cure, we’re on board,” they said.
“We know that Dad is one of so many suffering from Parkinson’s disease in Australia, and sadly, it’s a growing number. There’s something very warm and fuzzy about knowing the Foundation is run by a great bunch of passionate, dedicated, and genuine people.”
The Monkey Mia Kids are the 7Cairns Marathon Festival’s top fundraising team, having already raised more than $60,000 for Shake It Up Australia.
The family has also been holding bake sales leading up to the half-marathon to raise additional funds for the foundation.
Visit cmf24.grassrootz.com/shakeitup/ monkey-mia-kids-run-cairns to help James, Alice, and Kate raise money for Parkinson’s research.
Left: Andrew Urquhart (second from right) with children James Urquhart, Alice Urquhart and Kate Greig. Top right: Alice, James and Kate will run a half-marathon in honour of their dad’s Parkinson’s journey. Right: Andrew Urquhart’s Grandkids: Boh Urquhart, Angus Greig, George Greig, Matilda Gilbert-Kent, Isabelle Greig, Archie Gilbert-Kent, and Sammy Urquhart at a bake sale in Geelong. (Pictures: Louisa Jones) 418385
NAIDOC message spread
Gateway Plaza and Leopold Primary School joined in the fun for NAIDOC Week.
Charter Hall and First Nations artists brought ‘Drawing Us Together’ to the school and shopping centre in honour of the 2024 theme ‘Keep the Fire Burning’.
This year’s project features a powerful mix of First Nations authors, each bringing their unique stories to life. Students had the chance to explore these diverse perspectives through creative illustrations, creating a rich cultural and educational experience for everyone involved.
Leopold PS students had fun creating their artwork with a selection of the illustrations chosen as finalists will be on display at Gateway Plaza until Sunday July 14, when the local community will cast their vote to choose the final illustrations to be included in a digital book available in August.
“We’re thrilled to partner with local schools, giving students a chance to celebrate Australia’s rich history through stunning artwork inspired by Aboriginal and Torres
Strait Islander stories,” Charter Hall national marketing manager Megan Biddle said.
“This is a unique chance for local students to express themselves, explore important issues, and see their artwork displayed for the whole community to admire.”
To vote for your favourite illustration, simply find the display boards located within Gateway Plaza, scan the QR code and fill out the registration form which lets you select which school and piece of artwork you would like to see featured in the story book.
Christmas in July madness
Get ready for a rollicking Christmas in July as Queenscliffe Lighthouse Theatre Group(QLTG)presentsNuncrackers–the NunsenseChristmasMusical.
Nuncrackers follows on from the group’s successful 2019 run of the original Nunsense musical, reuniting original cast members to reprise their roles as the bumblingLittleSistersofHoboken.
The fourth in Dan Goggin’s series of seven musical comedies focused on the sisters, the Nunsense Christmas Musical is a behind-the-scenes look at the nuns’ attempt to tape a holiday television special intheconventbasement.
Naturally, hijinks ensue and with the help of young Father Virgil the nuns must navigate a host of challenges to get the job done. Director and long-time QLTG member Debbie Fraser said audiences shouldbepreparedtojoininthechaos.
“It’s a lot of fun; there’s a lot of comedy in it, a lot of audience participation,” she said. “And we’ve got children in the mix this time. (They’re) doing an amazing job. They’re really playing up their different characters; the good little girl, the cheeky one, the cool kid, they’ve all got their own personalities.”
Ms Fraser said QLTG, which has been activeforover20years,hashelpednurture youngperformersthroughoutthattime. Nuncrackers – the Nunsense Christmas Musical is at Queenscliff Uniting Church Hall from July 26 to August 4. For tickets go to trybooking.com/events/ landing/1233930 or call QLTG treasurer Markon0407700419.
Matt Hewson
Leopold Primary School students had fun creating artworks for NAIDOC Week. (Supplied)
Budget for environment
By Cr Jim Mason
One of the most critical tasks we undertake at council is preparing our yearly budget.
The City of Greater Geelong’s 2024-25 Budget reflects careful planning and extensive community consultation, and aims to invest in our growing region while ensuring financial sustainability.
Over the past decade, Greater Geelong has experienced remarkable growth. It boasts the fastest increasing population in Victoria and one of the fastest in Australia.
Council is investing heavily to keep up with this growth and over the next four years, we plantospend$752.6milliononcapitalprojects.
Protecting our environment is also a key priority, and we are investing in sustainable growth by increasing green spaces, supporting biodiversity and leading our community in mitigating the impacts of climate change.
The 2024-25 Budget commits to investing $2.38 million over the next four years in the annual environment reserves improvement program.
This will go toward renewing a coastal infrastructuresuchasOceanGroveBoatRamp, along with assets in Barwon River Reserve and other reserves with approved master plans.
Council will also invest $500,000 in the Bellarine Trail network to advance the City’s Shared Trails Masterplan.
This investment will include the scoping and feasibility studies of township connections on the Bellarine, particularly between Portarlington and Drysdale.
Apart from providing an important transportlink,theBellarineRailTrailprovides the largest continuous link of indigenous vegetation on the Bellarine Peninsulaapproximately 30km.
And we are seeing significant investment
in many other ways to protect the Bellarine’s beautiful natural environment and native flora and fauna.
This financial year, we will finalise the Southeast Bellarine Biolink Project Master PlanandcontinuerestoringmanyCouncil-run nature reserves, including Kingston Park and Yellow Gum Woodland in Ocean Grove.
We are also heavily investing in Sparrovale-Nubitj yoorree Wetlands, with $1.3 million budgeted for the ongoing maintenance, management and monitoring of the 550-hectare site.
Some of the planned actions include completing the public walking loop, upgrading the shed and shelters for community use, and establishing a new dog off-lead park.
Sparrovale-Nubitj yoorree Wetlands are important for our region’s biodiversity with almost 100 bird species observed on site, including the iconic brolga.
Sustainability is a key theme of Our Community Plan 2021-25 and a strong focus of
our community’s 30-year Clever and Creative vision, and there is much to be proud of across the organisation.
We are committed to achieving carbon-neutral status in all city-managed operations by 2025 and last financial year the organisation’s operational carbon emissions dropped 29 per cent.
Meanwhile, our electricity usage generated zero emissions after we signed a 10-year contract to use renewable energy.
Other highlights include the replacement of 14,000 residential streetlights and 1300 main road streetlights with energy-efficient LED lights in the last financial year as part of one of the largest upgrade programs of its kind in Victoria.
Thank you to all who provided submissions in response to our draft budget in April.
As councillors we always strive to listen and your feedback is valued, you can contact me at jmason@geelongcity.vic.gov.au about any issues you may want to raise.
Bellarine Ward councillor Jim Mason. (Supplied)
Plenty of beauty flying around
On a very cool, clear morning I went to the farm in Wallington where I conduct a ‘birds on farms’ survey for Birdlife Australia.
I always love walking around the farm, especially when the weather is clear and still. Itwassoquiet,Ididn’tevenspottheresident kangaroo. I did see half a dozen flame robins, aswellasthreecattleegrets,afewgreyfantails and a swamp harrier, one brown falcon and one black-shouldered kite, which was lovely. The weebills and striated pardalotes that are always in the yellow gum habitat on the farm are not there unfortunately, probably because there were a few noisy miners in the area.
I hope the noisy miners don’t move in permanently as I won’t see many other birds in the area if they do.
I also went to the Geelong Botanical Gardens to spot the pink robins and eastern spinebills.
I was also hoping to see the rose robin that was reported in the gardens. The pink robins and eastern spinebills were readily seen, and I walked around in circles trying to see a pink robin.
When I was about to leave, I heard an unusual bird call from the area near the fountain that is currently being repaired, and sure enough the rose robin found me. What struck me was the very different calls comparing pink and rose robins, where the pink robins make a ‘clicking’ contact call, and rose robins have such a melodious song.
On the subject of robins, I have spotted quite a few flame robins around Leopold and Ocean Grove lately.
Apparently a brown gerygone has been seen at the Geelong Botanical Gardens which is an interesting sighting.
I received an email from Libby, who lives in Wallington. Libby informed me that she was very happy to count 30 red-rumped parrots feeding on her lawn one afternoon. She hadn’t seen them in her garden for a
while. Libby said that there was a mix of male and female birds, with the males keeping an eye on their partners. I was thinking that there must be a good supply of grass seed in Libby’s lawn to attract such a good number of parrots, and Libby informed me that the lawn iskikuyu,anditalsoattractssparrowsinlarge numbers of about 50 birds.
Libby told me that attracting birds is probably the only advantage of having a kikuyu lawn.
I received another email from Sean, who was driving past the big paddock opposite the Mitre 10 at Wallington and saw (apart from the usual kangaroos) an eagle eating something at ground level. Sean was wondering if the eagle was a wedge-tailed eagle, and asked if this species does inhabit the Bellarine. I was able to reassure Sean that there are indeed wedgies on the Bellarine and it’s always great to see them.
Jen’s pink robin at Geelong Botanic Gardens. Inset: Jen’s black-shouldered kite at Wallington.
TAXCUTS
From July 1, the Albanese Government is delivering more, significant cost of living relief.
A pay rise for 2.6 million low wage workers.
An additional billion dollars to build more homes. A freeze on PBS medicine costs.
And power bill relief - $300 for every household from this week.
Scan the QR code to find out more!
Pedalling for autism
A Geelong program will continue to help children with autism and their families gain confidence in bike riding.
Leisure Networks’ Power 2 Pedal program provides children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) a chance to learn how to ride a bike safely.
Program coordinator Tori Honner said the program would conduct close to 20 cycling sessions across Term 4 of 2024 and Term 1 of 2025.
“We all deserve to experience good health and happiness. We know that sport is so good forus,yetpeoplewithdisabilitiesdon’thavethe same opportunities to get involved,” she said.
Firstheldin2019,theprogramwillexpandits opportunities to promote fun and accessibility in sports for all Victorians, including those with disabilities, with support from Benefit Geelong.
Benefit Geelong’s Mark Cunneen said the
program helped foster a social network for families and people living with disabilities.
“We are thrilled to support this program to enable young people to have the freedom of riding a bike,” he said.
“It’s such a simple and powerful thing, and we are really looking forward to seeing it continue in our region.”
Geelong Cycling Club president Kris Hink said the club would continue to support the program as it significantly impacted many families’ lives.
“It is great to support and be able to connect tootherformsofcyclinginthecommunity,”he said.“Sinceourinitialsupportin2019ofPower 2 Pedal, it’s great to see it back in Geelong and around our club.”
The cycling sessions will take place at the Geelong Cycling Club’s Belmont track for 45 minutes, with dates and times still to be confirmed.
Tiny towns, big grants
Five new projects for the Bellarine Peninsula have been announced as part of the state government’s $20 million Tiny Towns Fund.
Queenscliffe Maritime Museum received $50,000 to deliver the refurbishment of the historic Gil Allbutt Boat Shed.
Indented Head Yacht Club received $10,000 to deliver clubhouse refurbishments.
St Leonards Progress Association received $11,416 to deliver an entrance and courtyard surface and shade upgrade.
Portarlington Bayside Miniature Railway Increceived$21,000todeliverarefurbishment of the Point Richards Station and Signal Box Building.
Bellarine Bears Baseball Club received $50,000 to deliver improvements to fencing at the Wallington Recreation Reserve baseball field.
Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant announced the funding which is aimed to bring to life more than 200 projects across the state’s smallest regional and outer metropolitan towns with fewer than 5000 residents.
“The Tiny Towns Fund empowers small communities to thrive, ensuring projects that locals are passionate about can become a reality,” Ms Marchant said.
“We’re helping our tiniest towns reach their fullpotentialwithsomanycommunity-driven projects that will upgrade local facilities and encourage more visitors to Victoria’s vibrant regions,” Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney said.
For more information visit rdv.vic.gov.au/ tinytownsfund or suburbandevelopment.vic. gov.au/grants/tiny-towns-fund
Leisure Networks’ Tori Honner, left, Benefit Geelong’s Mark Edmonds, Geelong Cycling Club’s Kris Hink, Leisure Networks’ Clinton Meehan, Benefit Geelong’s Mark Cunnenn and Power 2 Pedal program participant Darcy Collins. (Supplied)
Darren Allbutt (family of Gil Allbutt), Sean Blackwood (Queenscliffe Maritime Museum president), Alison Marchant MP, Kerri Erler (Queenscliffe Maritime Museum) and Cr Rob Minty. (Supplied)
Astrodeath bring the noise
By Matt Hewson
Sydney sci-fi stoner metal duo Astrodeath headlineastackedbillatGeelong’sMedusaBar this Thursday night.
The self-dubbed “two-piece from hell” are a star on the rise in the Australian metal scene, having completed a national tour in support of their second album Vol.2 (2023) followed by another coast-to-coast tour supporting UK stoner/doom legends Orange Goblin.
Lauded for their ability to create a full rock sound with just two musicians, Astrodeath guitarist and singer Tim Lancken said the key to their sound was the chemistry between him and drummer Yoshi Hausler.
“We’ve known each other since we finished high school, but we weren’t really mates,” Lancken said. “We rehearsed at the same
studio (the Sonic Factory in Belmore, Sydney) and we’d crossed paths a few times… and I always thought he was a mad drummer. And then we didn’t see each other for quite a while.
“Iwantedtodoatwo-pieceforever,andIjust researched every two-piece band that I could find to see what was possible and what people were doing.
“And I’d been working on the two-piece thing with a bunch of other drummers, and doing a whole bunch of things trying to get it to work, and then as soon as I had one jam with Yosh I felt like the two-piece thing could actually work.”
A blend of many influences, Astrodeath’s
The story of a musical genius
Thebrandnewshowbylocalentertainer,writer and historian Colin Mockett OAM comes to the Potato Shed this month.
Made in Montserrat focuses on the story of influential producer and arranger George Martin and his decision to build a luxurious studio on the Caribbean island of Montserrat in 1979.
The studio was destroyed by Hurricane Hugo only a decade later, but during those ten yearsitwasthesiteofmanytimelessrecordings by internationally renowned acts including Elton John, Dire Straits, the Police, the Rolling Stones, Black Sabbath, Sheena Easton and Australia’s own Little River Band.
The new show follows a familiar format for followers of Mockett’s work, who has produced a long series of presentations featuring him
narratingthestoriesofmusicalgiants- suchas Elvis, Chuck Berry, Hank Williams and Buddy Holly - while a group of live musicians perform the subjects’ important works.
Mockettsaidtheopportunitytotellthestory of a towering figure such as Martin involving a volcanic island was too good to pass up.
“He was called the fifth Beatle, he ran the Abbey Road Studios and was a classically trained musician,” he said.
“So he’s the bloke who put an orchestra behind Paul McCartney for Eleanor Rigby, things like that. He gave that extra element to the Beatles… he was the musical genius behind the move from She Loves You, pop stuff, to Sgt Pepper’s, which was a full orchestral arrangement.
“One of the reasons he chose Montserrat,
Footlight celebrates 20 years
Footlight Productions will bring the original high school musical Grease to Geelong audiences this weekend in a high-energy extravaganza of lights, music and dancing.
A classic tale of teenage romance amid the pressures of high school, Grease has been a favourite of musical lovers since it premiered in 1971 and only grew in popularity when the film of the same name starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John was released in 1978.
The local theatre company celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, having nurtured the talents of over 300 Geelong performers throughout that time.
ProducerPeterWills,whofoundedFootlight Productions with his wife Margaret in 2003, said the show held a special place in his heart as he performed the role of the Teen Angel in the Geelong Musical Comedy Company’s production of Grease in 1986.
“It was the first time Grease was ever staged in Geelong; it was very exciting and very well received at the time,” he said. “Back when we didityouweren’tallowedtohavethesongsthat
were written for the movie (Grease, You’re the One That I Want, Hopelessly Devoted to You). They weren’t in the original stage production or any production that was to follow.
“Itwasonlyinthelastthreeorfouryearsthat they’ve allowed community theatre companies tohavethosesongsincorporatedintotheshow, which is amazing.”
Wills praised the show’s leads Morgan Doley-Axup(Sandy)andLukeWilson(Danny) and said the entire cast were ready to deliver a fantastic experience.
“We’ve got a very energetic cast, it makes me exhausted just watching them dance,” he said.
“When people see the dancing they will be blown away, it’s amazing.
“There’s something happening all the time, whether it’s singing, dancing, the band, or whatever. And we’ve got a wonderful old car (which is) actuall from one of the professional productions in Melbourne.”
Footlight Productions’ Grease is at the Geelong Arts Centre from Saturday, July 13 to Saturday, July 20.
Matt Hewson
apart from the silence – because no matter where he put his studio, there was always background noises of cars and things – was that it had been bypassed by what we call 20th Century progress.
“It didn’t have any fast food, it had a lovely slow pace to it, and the people of Montserrat didn’t recognise Elton John or Sting or Mark Knopfler. So the people who went to record there had the delight, for them, of not being recognised and pestered for autographs and things.”
Also featuring musicians Adam Parsons, Geoff Sinnbeck and Neville Findlay, Made in Montserrat will be at the Potato Shed on Tuesday, July 16. Visit potatoshed.com.au for tickets and more details.
Matt Hewson
“big dumb riffs” pay homage to Black Sabbath while incorporating elements from experimental metal giants Deftones and renowned post-grunge rock duo Local H.
The Medusa Bar gig will see them backed by Melbourne rockers Spacejunk and local acts Smoke Witch and Grytt.
“We’re going to bring it; we try to give people energy, we try to give them a good show and a good time,” Lancken said.
“I’ve never been to Medusa Bar but I hear it’s a small, vibey kind of dive bar, which is where we shine.
“We love playing big venues, but we like it tight, where everyone’s at the same level, so yeah, we’re psyched for it.”
Colin Mockett OAM brings his new show Made in Montserrat to the Potato Shed. (Supplied)
Morgan Dooley-Axup as Sandy with Abbey Perks, Isabella Cappelli, Cassie Chappell and Paris Walsh as the Pink Ladies. (Supplied)
Astrodeath’s Yoshi Hausler and Tim Lancken. (Supplied)
CELEBRATING SENIORS
Is it time to downsize?‘Lifesaver’ in home care
Selling the family home can feel like selling memories.
Thelegalitiesofconveyancing–paperwork, contracts, negotiations – can add unwelcome stress to the emotional upheaval.
At KG Lawyers, we offer a team of lawyers with years of experience in conveyancing, not only in the Bellarine area, but Victoria-wide. We understand that property transactions can be a busy and stressful time for many people, so to take the headache out of the complexities, we can provide expert assistance with all of the legal paperwork. Always committed to quality, we work closely with our clients to ensure they’re informed at every step of the process. We can
provide pre-contractual advice, explain all the legal terms and ensure that you’re aware of all your rights and responsibilities before signing any contracts.
If you are looking at selling your home, buying a property or transferring your interest in a property, we are here to help. Our team will guide our clients through the legal complexities of their individual stage in life withconfidence,whetheritbeConveyancing, Wills and Enduring Powers of Attorney or Probate and Estate Administration.
KG Lawyers invites you to visit our website at kglawyers.com.au or call the office 5253 1238 so we can assist you.
WILLS & POWER OF ATTORNEY
Live life to the fullest in the comfort of your own home with Just Better Care.
Sofia Harris said the specialist home-aged and disability care support service was a “lifesaver” and that there were many things her support workers helped her with that other services wouldn’t.
“They assist with things that I can’t manage to get done on my own anymore such as domestic assistance and shopping. They really strive to do their best to satisfy my care needs,” she said.
“The people are really wonderful, and nothing is ever too much trouble. The staff are very approachable, my case manager is always there to listen, and I know I can reach
out if I need anything”
“Having assistance from Just Better Care has given me the independence to keep going. Sometimes there are things I need down the street where it’s hard to go on my own, so having someone along with me is a great to support me.”
To start your Just Better Care journey, call 03 5222 1518, email mailge@ justbettercare.com or visit the caring team at their office at Level 1 114a Mt Pleasant Road in Belmont. Visit justbettercare.com/Geelong for more information.
KG Lawyers will take the worry out of downsizing. (Supplied)
Sofia Harris. (Ivan Kemp) 402348_13
CELEBRATING SENIORS
Affordable Denture Clinic is the only denture clinic in the greater Geelong area authorised to provide and manufacture Valplast, the only dentures with an unbreakable lifetime guarantee.
Metal free and with invisible clasps, they’re a great resolution to your denture needs.
Striving to find the best denture solution, Mr Demko and his team ensure the utmost care and quality of service to their patients.
“Weareafamilyownedbusinesscommitted to providing highly personalised services to each individual,” he said.
Affordable dentures fitted with a smile
Gain a smile worthy of showing off thanks to the team at Affordable Denture Clinic, now in East Geelong.
Established 10 years ago, the clinic can provide you with a mouth full of solutions including dentures, partial dentures, custom mouth guards and denture implants.
Owner and dental prosthetist Jason Demko has more than 30 years’ experience in the dental field and has just opened the doors to the clinic’s brand new location at 306 Myers Street, East Geelong. Mr Demko and his team are able to discuss a variety of options to help you achieve your
best smile yet.
Ensuringhekeepsup-to-datewiththelatest dental prosthetist technologies, Mr Demko focuses on utilising a variety of systems to integrate new practises into his denture work at the clinic.
Aspartofitscareandqualityfocusedservice,
The clinic’s new location, Mr Demko said, is a reflection of hard work and commitment to provide an environment to give his clients the very best in dental prosthetics. He said it wouldn’t have been possible without ongoingsupportfromthecommunity and clients.
Committed to providing a highly personalised service, the team at Affordable Denture Clinic can help you smile again.
Appointments can be made online at www.afordabledentureclinic.com.au
Jason Demko with patient Eddie Fraser.
Inset: Inside the clinic.
(Pictures: Ivan Kemp)
Nic Dacomb brought Tiny Seeds Grow into Big Things, a circus-like show as part of City of Greater Geelong’s Winter Holiday Program. Voice photographer Ivan Kemp was at Labuan Square, Norlane, to take pics.
1/ Elizabeth Brilli with her son MJ. 2/ Nic Lacomb handing out vegetable plants at the end of the show. Catalina Guasch with her son Luca. 4/ Mitch and Maverick. 5/ Juliette and Eden. 6/ Sarah with her children Ned and Stuart. 7/ Nic Dacomb with Grandpa. 8/ Olivia with her son Lucas. 9/ Nic Dacomb entertaining the kids. 10/ Xavier spins a plate.
11/ Heidi and Fletcher try their hand at spinning a plate.
Ivan Kemp)
Shopping and eating local
Voice
Christine Kelly, and right, Ziba, Melody Campbell-Gordon and Olivia Wilkinson.
Top left: Mia, Jack and Michael Bordignon. Left: Leanne Meddings. Centre: Bernice and Guy Manuell. Right: Brian and Bronwyn Farey. (Pictures: Louisa Jones) 418075
DINING OUT
Winter wonderland on the Bellarine
As winter settles in over the Bellarine Peninsula, locals and visitors alike discover a unique charm in its dining scene.
Known for its stunning coastline, quaint villages, and burgeoning culinary reputation, the peninsula transforms into a haven for food enthusiasts during the colder months. From cosy cafes to fine dining restaurants, here’s a guide to experiencing the best of winter dining on the Bellarine Peninsula.
Embracing coastal comforts
The Bellarine’s proximity to the Southern Ocean ensures that its seafood offerings are fresh and plentiful year-round. Winter sees an emphasis on hearty seafood chowders, grilled local fish, and seafood platters served with seasonalvegetablessourcedfromnearbyfarms.
Fireside feasts
Nothing complements winter dining like a crackling fire and a glass of local wine. Many establishments on the Bellarine Peninsula enhance their cosy atmosphere with open fireplaces, inviting patrons to unwind with a warm drink and a hearty meal. Leura Park at Curlewis is renowned for its contemporary Australian cuisine and a welcoming fireplace that sets the stage for a memorable dining experience.
Farm-to-table freshness
Winter on the Bellarine Peninsula is the season for farm-fresh produce, and local chefs take full advantage of this abundance. Menus often feature dishes crafted from seasonal vegetables like roasted beets, heirloom carrots, and Brussels sprouts, paired with locally sourced meats and cheeses.
Boutique winery Experiences
Wine lovers will find much to savour on the
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
Bellarine Peninsula, known for its boutique wineries producing cool-climate varietals. Many cellar doors remain open throughout winter, offering tastings paired with gourmet plattersthathighlightlocalcheeses,charcuterie, and artisanal bread. Jack Rabbit Vineyard in Drysdale is a standout, where panoramic views of the vineyards meet a menu featuring estate-grown wines and seasonal delights.
Hidden gems in village settings
Exploring the smaller villages dotted across the peninsula reveals hidden gems that beckon with warmth and character. Quaint cafes and bistrostuckedawayinplaceslikePortarlington and Barwon Heads offer intimate settings ideal for leisurely brunches or candlelit dinners.
Festive events and markets
Winter on the Bellarine Peninsula is not just about dining indoors. The season brings a calendar of events, including food and wine festivals, farmer’s markets, and community gatherings celebrating local produce and culinary talents. The Winter Shiraz Weekend and the Queenscliff Winter Weekend are highlights, featuring live music, wine tastings, and a showcase of seasonal fare that brings together locals and visitors alike.
Winter dining on the Bellarine Peninsula is a celebration of local flavours, community spirit,andtheregion’snaturalbeauty.Whether you’re indulging in fresh seafood by the coast, savouring farm-to-table delights, or enjoying a glass of wine beside a crackling fire, the peninsula offers an array of experiences that capture the essence of seasonal dining. As the temperature drops, the warmth of its culinary sceneonlygrowsstronger,invitingalltosavour the best of winter in this picturesque corner of Victoria.
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
• 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
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
JACK RABBIT VINEYARD
FLYING
LEURA PARK ESTATE
Jack Rabbit in Drysdale is a standout.
Leura Park Estate is a great place to go in winter. (Pictures: Supplied)
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7 Gas layer in the stratosphere (5)
8 Bland (9)
9 Employed (4)
14 Combination into a whole (9)
16 Land jutting into the sea (9)
17 Home of Jesus (8)
19 Learned (7)
22 Tropical fruit (5)
23 Metric unit (4)
25 Holy city for Muslims (5)
26 Joke (4)
must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.
Founded
2 What is the largest state in the US by area?
3 Andrew Garfield (pictured), Carey Mulligan and Keira Knightley all starred in which 2010 film adaptation of a Kazuo Ishiguro book?
4 What colour is the beginner belt in karate?
5 In which two months of the year does London Fashion Week take place?
6 Which artist’s No.1 hits include Think Twice, It’sAllComing Back to Me Now and I’m Alive?
7 The animated sitcom The Jetsons originally aired in which decade?
8 What is the official language of the Faroe Islands?
9 What is the longest river in Australia?
10 How many president’s
No.
FROM THE ARCHIVES
Ocean Grove Voice looks back through the pages of our predecessors
8 years ago
July 6 to 19, 2016
Ocean Grove Surf Lifesaving Club will get the remaining funds for its long-awaited upgrade after a bi-partisan $1m election pledge ensured the club would receive a grant even before Saturday’s election. Theofficialresultoftheelectionwasstill inthebalancewhentheVoicewenttoprint although it is likely that Sarah Henderson will retain the seat of Corangamite.
6 years ago
July 18 to 31, 2018
An Ocean Grove woman who died in a house fire last week is being remembered as a dedicated mother who brightened the lives of everyone she met.
Dawn Webster died when flames engulfed her Arcturus Road home on Monday night.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
4 years ago
July 15 to 28, 2020
A confirmed COVID-19 case forced the closure of Ocean Grove’s Boorai Centre last Friday.
The childcare facility was shut down for a deep clean after the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) advised that a child who attends the childcare centre had contracted the virus.
2 years ago
July 15 to 28, 2022
Surfside Waves Soccer Club will not endorse the City of Greater Geelong’s OceanGroveSportingInfrastructurePlan (OGSIP) until council provides written proof that the club will be better off. The plan recommends the club move from its current base at Shell Road sports precinct to a new facility at Oakdene.
WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Voice Community Calendar, 1/47 Pakington Street, Geelong West, 3218, or email to newsdesk@voicegroup.com.au. Deadline for copy and announcements is 5pm Tuesday.
Bellarine Disability Fair
Wednesday July 31, 10am-2pm, Leopold Library to find out about disability services that can help you expand your opportunities.
■ 4201 0675
Ballroom dance
Leopold Hall, 805-809 Bellarine Highway, Saturday July 13, 7.30pm-11pm, $10 includes supper, music Charles.
■ 0400 500 402
Christian Singles
Christmas in July lunch at a private home, Saturday July 20, 12.30pm. Book and for more information by 5pm July 18.
■ 0409 132 568 Coffee, Wednesday July 31, 10am-11.30am, at The Gather’d Cafe, Bell Post Hill. Book by July 30.
■ 0400 383 711
CWA Nightlights Ocean Grove
CWA Nightlights Ocean Grove meets the first and third Monday of the month, 2.30pm, Seniors Club, 102 The Terrace, Ocean Grove. All welcome.
■ Kareen, 0419 246 346, or Janis 5255 4585
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
Chess clubs
For chess fun simply come along and see yourself, play some chess, meet some members, with no obligation to join. We
■ 5229 0071
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
Book club
Leopold CAE book club meets second Tuesday each month from 6.30pm. Very friendly group. New members welcome.
■ Shirley, 0488 055 969
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.
■ Jane, 0481 126 022, or Barbara, 0419 511 781
Ocean Grove Senior Citizens
101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove
Weekly – Tuesday: snooker 1pm, chess, indoor bowls 1.15pm. Wednesday: bingo 1.15pm, ukulele class 2pm, guitar jam session 4pm. Thursday: snooker 1pm, cards 500, social afternoons 1.15pm. Friday: art classes 9am. Fortnightly – CWA 1st & 2nd Thursday 7.30pm
Monthly – Inhouse Movies 3rd Wednesday 1.30pm.
■ Dianne, 5255 1372
Cards
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: $30 annually and coffee included. At 101
The Terrace, Ocean Grove.
■ Dianne, 5255 1372
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.
■ 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
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
Guided walk
‘The Fern Collection’ at Geelong Botanic Gardens, 2pm, Sunday July 14. Meet at front gate.
Out and about
Voice photographer Louisa Jones found a surprisingly busy Ocean Grove main beach on Wednesday July 10 with some taking advantage of the latter part of the school holidays.
1/ Scarlett with some seaweed. 2/ Tom Kennedy and Pat Cantelo. 3/ Lorrie and Chris Corcoran. 4/ Jasper. 5/ Laine and Joni Hardingy. 6/ Evander and Indily. 7/ Angus and Kahl. 8/ Quinn. 9/ Jean Thompson and Lucy. 10/ Max Johnson and Tony Forbes. 11/ Karen and Emma Stewart. (Pictures: Louisa Jones) 418076
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Which Australian bowler took hat-tricks in consecutive matches during the T20 World Cup?
2. The Tour de France cycling event began in which country this year?
3. Which martial arts sport has been cut from the 2024 Paris Olympic Games?
4. Robert De Niro portrayed which boxer in the 1980 Martin Scorsese film RagingBull?
5. Former Australian cricketer Stuart Law is the national coach of which country’s team?
6. Australian NBA star Josh Giddey was recently traded to which team?
Skye is one of the mascots of which AFL team?
Which nation is the host of the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament?
Which Australian tennis player recently finished runner-up in the WTA Birmingham Classic tournament?
10. What city played host to the second State of Origin match between NSW and Queensland in 2024?
Australian basketballer Johnny Furphy played for which US college team?
Matilda Cortnee Vine recently signed a threeyear deal with which NWSL club?
networkclassifieds.com.au
13. Which former Melbourne City coach is now coach of Melbourne Victory?
14. Bec Bulley last coached which Super Netball team?
15. The Birmingham Classic is played on what type of tennis courts?
16. Which colours feature on the AFL team uniform of Port Adelaide?
17. Jeff Dunne and Rachael Gunn are set to represent Australia in which sport at the 2024 Summer Olympics?
18. Which former NBA player is the current coach of the Los Angeles Lakers?
19. Which Japanese sportswear company is the official Australian Olympic Team partner for the 2024 Summer Olympics?
20. Canadian ice hockey player Connor McDavid captains which NHL team?
21. Which team emphatically won Game 3 of the Women’s State of Origin in Townsville?
22. The Tour de France will conclude for the first time in which city on the French Riviera?
23. Which Czech tennis player is the reigning Ladies’ Singles Wimbledon champion?
24. Forty-four athletes will represent Australia in which sport at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games?
25. The national anthem of France, La Marseillaise, is the basis for which AFL team’s theme song?
26. Which Australian golfer won the 2022 British Open major golf tournament?
27. True or false: six different nations have won the last six men’s FIFA World Cup soccer tournaments?
ACCOUNTING SERVICES
Roche Accounting5256 2764
ANTENNAS
Arrow Antennas0439 785 703
Kendall Antenna Services0404 019 781
AUTOMOTIVE
Auto Care Ocean Grove (Repco)5255 1045
Gardiner Automotive5255 5380
BEAUTY/HAIR
Hair By Dana0400 065 431
Swish Beauty & Hair - Leopold 5250 3242
BUILDERS & NEW HOMES
MB Builders0400 406 030
BUILDING DESIGNERS
Michael Higgins Building Design5255 3355
BUTCHERS
Benno’s Meating Place5254 1828
CARPET CLEANING
Carpet Cleaners Geelong5255 3510
CHIMNEY SWEEPS
A1 Chimney Sweep & Co0426 897 479
CONVEYANCING
Surfside Conveyancing Pty Ltd5255 5556
Vines Conveyancing5255 4480
DENTAL
Drysdale Denture Services
Ryan Davies & Andrew Irving5251 1683
Ocean Grove Denture Services
Ryan Davies & Andrew Irving5255 4533
28. The first edition of the eight-stage Tour de France Femmes took place in which recent year?
29. Who was Australia’s leading run-scorer at the recent Twenty20 Cricket World Cup?
30. What animal was famously released onto the playing field during an AFL game at the SCG in 1993?
5655
Doors5256 2985
Pizza5255 4307
Centre5255 5611
Cannon fires first shot in EV race
By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
The GWM Cannon has become the first full electric utility in Australia, the Alpha Ultra Hybrid muscling in between the Ford Ranger, Toyota HiLux and Isuzu D-Mac and the full-sized pick-ups from Chevrolet, Ford, Ram and Toyota.
The Cannon dual cab flagship also strengthens GWM’s New Energy Vehicle strategy, becoming the brand’s sixth NEV offering following the Jolion Hybrid, Tank 300 and 500 hybrids and Ora EV.
Coming in three variants with a 2.4-litre turbocharged diesel engine, or 2-litre turbo petrol motor, the latter linked with a hybrid powertrain, all are mated with a nine-speed automatic transmission and full-time 4×4 system.
Prices start at $51,990 for the Cannon Alpha Lux diesel, the Alpha Ultra diesel comes in from $57,990, while the hybrid Alpha Ultra takes flagship honours from $64,990. All are drive-away prices. . All are covered by the maker’s seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty.
Standard equipment includes LED headlights, a 360-degree camera, dual zone climate control, locking rear diff, 12.3-inch instrument cluster, 12.3-inch information screen, wireless smartphone mirroring, six speaker audio, power adjustable driver’s seat, leather-style upholstery and 18-inch alloy wheels.
The Ultra grade adds panoramic sunroof, 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, heated, ventilated, massaging front seats with power adjustment, while the Ultra Hybrid takes on head-up windscreen display, power folding exterior mirrors with memory, semi-automatic parking assist and auto reverse assist.
GWM Cannon Alpha Ultra Hybrid buyers enjoy a seven-year, unlimited kilometre warranty, seven years roadside assist and five years of capped price servicing.
Styling
As mentioned above, the new Cannon Alpha leaves the opposition (literally) in the shade, with dimensions of 5445mm long, 1992mm
wide,1924mmheight,and3350mmwheelbase, and 35mm longer overall, 57mm wider, 38mm taller and 120mm longerbetween thefront and rear wheels than the standard GWM Cannon Ute.
This gives the newbie a solid stance on the street and the test vehicle’s black paintwork offers maximum contrast, with just enough chrome work, and LED headlamps.
The tailgate holds a few surprises. The whole soft-open gate folds down at the press of a button in the centre of the GWM hallmark. Touch the same button for a second and the 60/40 gate opens barn door-style for ease of loading and unloading the tub.
Interior
Nappa leather upholstery and heated, ventilated, and massaging front seats are complemented by a heated steering wheel, plus two-way power-adjustable heated and ventilated rear seats with welcome function and wireless phone charger.
Rear leg and head room are generous and occupants can take advantage of a panoramic roof and sliding rear window as in the Nissan Navara for extra ventilation.
Infotainment
Inside, there is a 14.6-inch infotainment touchscreen, a 10-speaker Infinity sound system, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, head-up windscreen display and wireless smartphone charger. An unusual addition is an analogue clock, found more in top-shelf saloons such as Bentley and Lexus, and 64-colour ambient lighting,
Engines/transmissions
The range-topping 2-litre turbo petrol hybrid enginedeliversacombined255kWofpowerand 648Nmoftorqueagainst135kWand480Nmof the 2.4-litre turbodiesel. Both are hooked up to a nine-speed automatic transmission and full-time four-wheel drive with lock-up front and rear differentials.
The Ram 1500 V8 pick-up has been available with a mild-hybrid system for some years.
This is no mild hybrid where the electric motor only assists the internal combustion
engine and cannot drive the wheels without using the ICE, as with the Ultra Hybrid.
Safety
No word on the Cannon Alpha Ultra Hybrid ANCAP safety rating yet but the GWM Tank 500 SUV, which shares much of its platform and cabin with the Alpha ute was recently awarded a top five-star rating by ANCAP.
Standardsafetyfeaturesincludeautonomous emergencybraking(withpedestrianandcyclist detection), adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, front and rear cross-traffic assist, lane-keep assist, lane centring, emergency lane-keeping, traffic sign recognition and surround-view camera with transparent chassis mode.
Cannon diesels have four parking sensors up front and four at the rear, while the Ultra Hybrid has six up front and six at the back.
The Alpha offers seven airbags, including a front-centre bag between the driver and front-seat passenger.
Driving
First up, just a word about the ‘voice of the vehicle’: Has driving come to this? During time with the Cannon Alpha Ultra Hybrid the person behind the wheel (and passengers) were ‘assaulted’ by a constant stream of inane audio and visual female pleas to ‘concentrate on driving’ for seemingly little reason. ‘Florence’ in the machine even urged the driver to ‘take a break’.
The source of all this ‘evil eye’ was a camera attached to the A-pillar focused on the driver –so distracting. In the end, this driver could not even bother to seek out a way to switch off the system: too busy concentrating on driving.
Fromrest,theturbo-petrolwasatadtardyon the take-up and when engaged had a tendency to lurch off the mark. On the move, the big fella was relatively easy to get on with, although the suspension had a habit of resisting easy going over blemished bitumen.
Overtaking was capably executed, and light steering came into its own on slow parking manoeuvres, which were not the ‘friendliest’ with such a bulky vehicle. GWM claims a fuel consumption of 9.8 litres per 100 kilometres in the combined urban/highway cycle.
The test hybrid recorded at worst, more than 15 litres per 100 kilometres around town and 8.1 litres per 100 kilometres on a trip down the motorway.
Three all-terrain drive modes, eco, normal, sport, are very much set and forget for the driver. Sport mode reduces throttle power regeneration, while Normal/Eco mode increases deceleration of system-regenerating energy. It can also lock front and rear differentials.
Towing capacity is a healthy 3500kg braked and 750kg unbraked. Wading depth is up to 800mm.
Summary
The GWM Cannon Alpha is big on things like interior space and towing strength, and the Ultra Hybrid frugal on fuel use. On the downside, the touchscreen is not easy to manipulate while on the move. As for the intrusions of ‘Florence’ in the machine, if that’s artificial intelligence, you can shove it!
The Cannon dual cab flagship strengthens GWM’s New Energy Vehicle strategy. (Supplied)
Rampant Storm run riot
Bellarine Storm thrashed Hume City in the women’s Big V basketball match at Drysdale on Saturday July 6. Voice photographer Ivan Kemp was there see the Storm prevail 98 to 56.
Tegan Hindle accepts a pass for Hume.
Genevieve Mucha wins this contest.
Megan Ormiston shoots for three, and right, Georgia Varley cleans up at the back.
Chantelle Hall pulls down a pass.
Alicia Knights takes the ball through the centre.
Bridgette Rettstatt shoots for two oof her 15 points.
Georgia Varley blocks a shot from Tegan Hindle.
Left: Bridgette Rettstatt with a bounce pass. Centre: Chelsea Sumal fires off a pass. Right: Bridgette Rettstatt shoots a three pointer. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 417474
Storm down in a close one
Voice photographer Ivan Kemp was at Drysdale Stadium to see the Bellarine Storm go down to Hume City in a close one, 91 to 94 in Big V basketball on Saturday July 6.
Above: Kavione Green takes the ball out of defence.
Below: Scott Stone shoots for three.
Max Kos with a lay up.
Left: Scott Stone scores again on his way to 35 points. Right: Zack McKenzie and Rohan Jarvie compete at the tip off. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 417474
Above: Lewis Varley takes a rebound. Right: Rohan Jarvie intercepts a pass.
Elijah Saifaleupoju and Nathan Gronbeck compete for the ball.
Kavione Green scores with a slam dunk.
Nathan Gronbeck is stripped of the ball by Malik McKinney.
Two Phones, no problems
LOCAL TENNIS
There were plenty of moves in Thursday Triples Section 1 ladder after round 3, as the teams are starting to hit their stride, and some clean balls.
Moolap have three teams in the section this season – Two Phones Chol are leading the charge hoping to defend their title, Zing Kings have been promoted after claiming the Section 2 premiership last season and the new combination Muchacho’s, a mix of new and previous players.
Two Phones Chol are still proving to be
the team to beat, sitting comfortably atop the ladder.
The long standing partnerships in the team showed through against new team Grovedale Tigers, with Connor Chivell and Lachy Edgar taking the first doubles 6-2, Chivell and Sophie De Wit the second 6-1, then Edgar and De Wit finishedtakingthethird6-3.DeWitandEdgar also won through in their singles to make it three sets for the night and Grovedale’s only success was in the final singles with Hayden Fell winning 6-0.
Muchacho’s came up against counterparts Zing Kings, and while the final score of 5-1 makes the match look one-sided, the scoreline
could have been quite different with only a few points.
Kyle Beattie and Joshua Simic had a long night with all three of their sets decided in tie-breaks. Beattie took the win for Muchacho’s in their singles, while Simic countered for the Kings with Jackson Maddison in the second doubles, before Beattie teamed with Riley Kotwic to come out in front on the sets score at the end of the night.
Kotwic had the best night for the team winning his singles 6-2 and first doubles with Callum Davey 6-1, while Davey won his singles 6-0. The win has moved Muchacho’s into second but with a tough run in the next few
Local athletes off to Paris Olympics
Two Geelong athletes were this week named in the Australian Olympics team.
Sprinter Mia Gross, from Torquay, will compete at her first Olympics and Drysdale high jumper Joel Baden will attend his second Games.
For 23-year-old Gross the announcement was the culmination of years of hard work.
“It’s been a hell of a journey to get here and I’mforevergratefultothosewhobelievedinme and got me to this moment today,” she said on Instagram.
“Special thanks go to my coach who is the mastermind behind it all, Mr John Nicolosi. And to my beautiful family who have been on this roller coaster ride with me since day one. Toeveryonewhohasfollowedalongandbeena part of this journey with me…we did it!”
Gross’ fellow Geelong Grammar graduate Lauren Ryan is also off to Paris with the 5000m added to her repertoire along with the 10km event she was picked for in April.
Baden, 28, made his Olympics debut in Rio de Janeiro in 2016, but missed selection for Tokyo.
“Beyond excited to announce I’ve been selected for my second Olympic Games,” he said on Instagram.
“To think I was only 20 years old when I first sportedtherings,makingmychildhooddream come true to having another opportunity eight years later is a massive privilege.
“My athletics journey in between this time has been a mixed bag, filled with moments of
extreme frustration and disappointment to the incredible highs and elation felt when you tap into your potential and hit a personal best.
“It’s a difficult arena to navigate, and I certainly wouldn’t have made it without the support of family, my training squad and the endless patience and guidance from Sandro
weeks.
The final match of the round was the closest, with Triple J’s getting over the line by just five games to Western Heights Uniting. The home team started well with Jack Tolley and Jack Kavenaghwinningthefirstdoubles6-3andJay Tee the singles 6-0.
The Heights levelled the sets score in the second with Jeff and Dan Smith coming through 6-4 in the doubles and Andrew Ryan 6-3 in the singles. The final result was in doubt until both sets finished as Ryan and Dan Smith took the doubles in a tie-break, but with Kavenagh having a solid win in the singles 6-4, the J’s had done enough to secure the win.
United adds Elissa to roster
Geelong United has added 183cm guard Elissa Brett to its inaugural roster.
The 23-year-old is fresh from a five-year stint in the US college system, most recently with the Wolverines at University of Michigan.
Appearing in 31 games with 21 starts for the Wolverines, Brett averaged 7.7 points and 4.2 rebounds in 27.3 minutes per game, and would also suit up against a history-making opponent.
“EarlierthisyearIhadtheopportunity to play against Caitlin Clark in front of 18,000 people,” she said.
“That was Clark’s historic game where she broke the record for the most points in the NCAA. Obviously as the opposition we were on the other side of it, but being a part of something so huge for women’s basketball is definitely a highlight of mine.”
Now back on home soil, Brett is ready to hit the court in the WNBL with Geelong United in their first season.
“It’s really exciting being a part of Geelong’s inaugural team,” she said.
“I’m looking forward to getting amongst the community and contributing to the Geelong United history. I’ll have the opportunity to play in front of my family more often too which was a big deciding factor for me to sign on.”
Not only family, but also the defensive mindedness of her new head coach, Chris Lucas was the other key factor in Brett’s decision to sign.
“Once I spoke to Chris I knew Geelong would be a good fit for me,” she said.
“He’s pretty defence oriented, so I’ll look to bring my tenacity and work ethic on the defensive end and do all the little things to help our team win.”
And that is exactly what Lucas is looking for in the newest addition to his playing roster.
“Elissa’sextremelytoughandhashada great college career,” he said.
“Finishing off in Michigan her numbers were really good. I just think she’s WNBL ready, and I’m excited for what she’ll bring to the program.”
Bisetto throughout all these years.
“In what can be a rather solipsistic sport, the most special memories I’ve had competing involved the shared experience and sense of community whilst jumping.
If I can tap into that, anything can happen these Games.”
Donna Schoenmaekers
Elissa Brett is the latest Geelong United signing. (Supplied)
Joel Baden in action during the qualification of the World Athletics Championships in Budapest 2023. (EPA/Robert Ghement)
Mia Gross, Naa Anang, Bree Masters and Jacinta Gross following the 100m relay semi final in Birmingham 2022. (AAP Image/Dean Lewins)
Flapper to lead the Jets
Ocean Grove Bowling Club coach Matt Flapper will lead the Geelong Jets in their inaugural Bowls Premier League season.
Former Australian representative Flapper brings a wealth of experience, passion, and expertise to the Geelong Jets.
Ocean Grove Bowling Club chief executive Nathan O’Neill said Flapper’s appointment was a monumental step for the team, considering his extensive experience and being highly regarded in the sport.
“Matt’s BPL experience as a player, strategic acumen, and passion for the sport are second to none,” he said.
“He brings a wealth of knowledge and a winning mindset that will undoubtedly inspire and elevate our team. Matt’s track record speaks for itself. His leadership will not only enhance our performance on the national stage but also reinforce Geelong’s standing as a leading bowls region across the country.”
“What an opportunity, I am thrilled to be involved with such a talented team,” he said.
“Ourrosterisfilledwithexceptionalplayers, but more importantly, great people who will be terrific ambassadors for the Geelong Jets, and I am eager to see what we can achieve
Race to finals is on
A GRADE – Ladder: 2nd
Ocean Grove has all but locked away the double chance and the battle for the minor premiership will be fought in round 15 against Geelong Amateur.EvenifGrovewinsthatgame,Ammos have a far superior percentage so it’s likely they finish in second spot with a double chance. Coach Mel Holmes will have her team primed and ready for action once finals begin.
B GRADE – Ladder: 3rd
The double chance is pretty much secured with a three-game gap on fourth-placed Torquay. Top spot isn’t out of the equation if Grove beats Ammos and Anglesea.
C GRADE – Ladder: 1st
A massive game against second-placed Modewarre this week. The Grubbers have a two-game and percentage buffer and should earn a rest during the first week of the finals.
D GRADE – Ladder: 2nd
Only percentage separates top side Geelong Amateur and Grove. The round 15 clash looms as a battle for the minor premiership. Grove’s four other matches are against sides that are outside the top five.
E GRADE – Ladder: 4th
A win this week should sew up a finals spot for Ocean Grove. After that, attention will turn towards climbing into third. With top side Ammos to come next week, the final three games are against Newcomb (9th), Drysdale (10th) and Anglesea (7th). 19 & UNDER – Ladder: 10th
together. It’s going to be thrilling to sit rink side watching these three strut their stuff.”
Bowls Premier League is a biannual bowls competition involving teams from around Australia.
The competition was founded in 2013 as a way to popularise the sport by presenting in a modernised format, using the term ‘made-fortelevision’ and the T20 of bowls.
The competition features faster play, modified rules, colourful clothing and comprehensive television coverage.
This year’s tournament is from November 11 to 15 at Club Pine Rivers, Brisbane.
With five rounds remaining, Justin Flynn takes a look at Ocean Grove’s senior and junior netball sides and where they sit heading into finals.
It’s been a tough year, but the Grubbers get a good chance to get their first win of the season when they meet ninth-placed Modda this weekend.
17 & UNDER DIVISION 1 – Ladder: 3rd
The team should win against Modda and then faces top team Ammos. The final two games are against Drysdale and Anglesea, which should be wins. The aim will be to finish in the top three.
17 & UNDER DIVISION 2 – Ladder: 3rd Grove has a bye this week and then faces second-placed Ammos. The final three games should be wins so a spot in the top three is the probable outcome.
15 & UNDER DIVISION 1 – Ladder: 6th
Percentage is keeping Grove out of the top five. They should defeat bottom team Modewarre this week, but after that it gets tricky. Ammos (1st) loom before a bye and then Drysdale (4th) and Anglesea (7th) to finish. Fifth placed Barwon Heads has a tricky run home with Ammos, Port (2nd), Modewarre (9th), Queenscliff (8th) and Torquay (3rd).
15 & UNDER DIVISION 2 – Ladder: 3rd Ocean Grove is two games clear of fourth spot and with games against the two bottom teams to come, should do enough to secure a double chance come finals time.
13 & UNDER DIVISION 1 – Ladder: 5th
Two wins and percentage clear of six placed Barwon Heads, Grove’s fixture should see it play in an elimination final.
13 & UNDER DIVISION 2 – Ladder: 5th
A recurring theme, Grove is two wins and percentageaheadoftheSeagulls.Awinagainst Drysdale would go a long way to climbing into third. The Hawks are just a small amount of percentage ahead and third placed Queenscliff has a one game break, but a vastly inferior percentage.
Finals venues confirmed for Bellarine Football League
This year’s Bellarine Football Netball League grand finals will be held by a non-BFNL venue for the first time.
Leopold Memorial Reserve will host the preliminary finals and grand finals with AFL Barwon saying the “success of the 2023 Geelong Football Netball League Finals being held at Leopold provides a blueprint for an outstanding spectacle in 2024”.
Portarlington Recreation Reserve will continue to host the first two weeks of the BFNL finals.
This year’s selection process for hosting venues was carried out by the AFL Barwon staff and commission. All AFL Barwon clubs were invited to express their interest in hosting.
The Geelong Football Netball League grand finals will be at GMHBA Stadium and the Kardinia Park Netball Complex.
“AFL Barwon is enthused by the on-court and on-field action that has transpired so far in 2024, and the finals series is shaping up to be exceptional, thanks to the generous and committed support of affiliated Clubs, in
Geelong Football Netball League
GEELONG FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
Week 1 – West Oval, Geelong West
Saturday, September 7: qualifying finals
Sunday, September 8: elimination finals
Week 2 – West Oval, Geelong West Saturday, September 14: second semi-finals Sunday, September 15: first semi-finals
Week 3 – West Oval, Geelong West Saturday, September 21: preliminary finals
Week 4 – GMHBA Stadium, South Geelong Friday, September 27: grand finals
BELLARINE FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
August 18: elimination finals
2 – Portarlington Recreation Reserve
Week 1 – Portarlington Recreation Reserve Saturday, August 17: qualifying finals
Saturday, August 24: second semi-finals Sunday, August 25: first semi-finals
Week 3 – Leopold Memorial Reserve Saturday, August 31: preliminary finals
Week 4 – Leopold Memorial Reserve Saturday, September 7: grand finals
JUNIOR NETBALL
Week 1 – Kardinia Park Netball Precinct Friday, August 23: semi-finals
September
ALL ABILITIES FOOTBALL NETBALL LEAGUE
Week 1 – Kardinia Park Netball Precinct (netball only)
Tuesday, August 6: preliminary finals
Week 2 – Kardinia Park Netball Precinct (netball only)
Tuesday, August 13: grand finals
Week 1 – Grinter Reserve, Newcomb (football only)
Saturday, August 18: grand finals
all members of the community to be part of these celebrations, in concluding the 2024
Ocean Grove A and B Grade netball
coach Mel Holmes. (Ivan Kemp) 405170_13
Matt Flapper will coach the Geelong Jets in their inaugural Bowls Premier League season.
Geelong FNL, Bellarine FNL, junior male (TBA), female football finals and All Abilities FNL finals,” AFL Barwon Regional
CREEK OVER 55s LIVING
Come home to Armstrong Green
Boutique homes starting from $680k
ALREADY BUILT - NO DEPOSIT - MOVE IN HASSLE FREE
Plan to live it up in a modern, light-filled home that will be the envy of your friends. Plan to party, play your best hand, thrive in your own community and have the freedom to tick off your travel bucket list whenever you are ready to lock-up and leave.
Join us at our next event, meet the like-minded community and discover all there is to love about village life.
Ho Ho Ho!! Can you believe we are already half way through the year?
To pause and celebrate, you are invited to join us for our Christmas in July luncheon for a complimentary 2 course meal, in the Armstrong Green Clubhouse.
Come along and mingle with residents and guests and enjoy good company with the like-minded community. We look forward to seeing you there. Reservations essential.
DATE Thursday July 18, 2024 RSVP Monday July 15, by
THE DUNEED VILLA