Lighthouse delayed
By Jena Carr
Upgrades to the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse Reserve may take longer than expected, with a two-year extension proposed for the project.
The Borough of Queenscliffe unanimously accepted a report during its July 24 meeting, which provided an update on the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse Reserve project.
ChiefexecutiveMartinGillsaidtheborough would look to extend the completion date of the project’s second stage from September 30, 2024, to May 31, 2026.
Mr Gill said the borough would request an extension from the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action (DEECA), which fully funded stage two of the development.
“Council received a grant (from the state government’s 2022-23 budget) for stage two works at the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse Reserve, and that was a grant of $1 million,” he said. “In 2023, council established a project control group (PCG), and through the second half of 2023 and the first half of 2024, that grouphasbeenworkingthroughsomedetailed planning.
“This included a landscape plan and engineering assessments of works on site. Through that, they have been constantly monitoring the cost of projects, as well as the approvals and support of the agencies.
“We need to keep the project moving, but to also act quickly to request a formal variation from the DEECA to make sure that, by September 20, we had some certainty about the project itself.”
The PCG agreed to an updated project scope that focused on protecting the lighthouse’s remainingdefencestructuresduringameeting held on June 24.
The proposed works would also include the installation of power to the site’s engine shed and amenities block, along with fencing and signage upgrades.
Cr Michael Grout said there was “data behind these changes” to ensure the work on the lighthouse considered the site’s historic features and that the project was conducted appropriately.
“We aren’t going to exceed the $1 million grant funding that we’ve been allocated, but we do need to renegotiate what we’re actually going to use that money to do,” he said.
“Decisions that the PCG have made along the way have been based to some extent on
BROWSE OUR PET-FRIENDLY TWIST PILE CARPET
the quantities of surveying dollar numbers attached to the proposal originally agreed to in the grant funding.”
The borough initially adopted the Point Lonsdale Lighthouse Reserve development and restoration masterplan in 2019, following
Grubbers stand tall in upset win
In just his 8th senior game, Hugo Walsh (pictured) typified Ocean Grove’s shock win against Geelong Amateur in round 15.
Walsh took this mark with courage and his team showed what determination and a will to win can do.
The second-placed Ammos were wasteful in front of goal, but Ocean Grove’s best win of the season, and probably its best for a few seasons, was reward for hard work, even with a lengthy injury list.
A six-goal third term shocked the visitors and the Grubbers eventually won by 27 points.
It was a huge weekend of footy and netball at Steeline Ray Menzies Oval on Saturday July 20 with Ammos winning the top of the table A Grade netball clash against Ocean Grove by five goals.
■ See pages 24, 25 and 27 for all our pics and stories.
community consultations.
The borough’s next steps will be to discuss the project’s proposed change of scope and time extension with DEECA to determine if the changes aligned with the intent of the original grant.
NAIDOC WEEK AT MICK’S STEPSDUNE RESTORATION PROJECT
A family event celebrating the cultural heritage of First Nations and Torres Strait Islander peoples took place at Ocean Grove on July 8. The event marked NAIDOC Week on the Bellarine Peninsula.
The morning began with a traditional Smoking Ceremony, followed by a Welcome to Country, led by Wadawurrung woman Corrina Eccles, Cultural Strengthening General Manager at the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation. The event was made all the more special when Ms. Eccless taught Traditional Dance to the younger members of the audience.
Barwon Coast Committee of Management Chair, Sandy Gatehouse, expressed her respect and honour for the strength and resilience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
“We at Barwon Coast are committed to amplifying Wadawurrung voices and working collaboratively to ensure the health of Coastal Country”.
“Keeping the fire burning for future generations means protecting our precious coastline. This can involve initiatives like returning traditional language to the land, such as the naming of Bukareeyoo last year.”
DISCOVERY ON THE BARWON COAST: THEVEINED HELMET ORCHID
The Barwon Coast Natural Resources Team has recorded the Veined Helmet Orchid (Corybas diemencius) in Barwon Heads for the first time in history. This small orchid, measuring just 3 cm tall, features a unique veined pattern. The orchid’s presence indicates a healthy local ecosystem and adds to the area’s known biodiversity. Orchids play an important role in their environments, with some species even attracting mosquitoes as pollinators. This finding has been reported to the Melbourne Royal Botanic Gardens and added to the Victorian Biodiversity Atlas. Such documentation helps track ecosystem health and inform future conservation efforts.
These are other orchid species found in the Barwon Coast area that you might encounter on your next journey:
• Nodding Greenhood Orchid
• Dwarf Greenhood Orchid
• Pink Fairies Orchid
• Slatey Helmet Orchid
• Maroonhood Orchid
• Onion Orchid
• Sun Orchid
• Large Gnat Orchid
To protect these sensitive plants, visitors are asked to remain on designated paths and avoid entering dune area.
To promote dune health and biodiversity, Barwon Coast’s Natural Resource Management Team has started works on an environmental initiative at Bukareeyoo Ocean Grove Spit over the coming months.
The project will focus on controlling specific introduced plant species (aka weeds), particularly Sea Wheat Grass and Purple Groundsel, which have been identified as detrimental to the native ecosystem.
Following the removal, the team will replenish the dunes with beneficial indigenous plants, helping to restore the natural balance of this vital coastal habitat.
Residents and visitors to the area can expect to see signage erected prior to the commencement of works. The community is kindly requested to assist in this restoration effort by keeping dogs leashed and out of the dunes, allowing the newly planted vegetation the best chance to establish itself.
About Us
Barwon Coast stewards 19 kilometres of Victoria’s pristine Bellarine Peninsula coastline. We commit to preserve and enrich this unique natural environment for locals and visitors alike. Our focus is to balance conservation efforts with mindful enjoyment of this stretch of Wadawurrung Country now, and into the future.
Shots available as flu cases rise
Barwon Health is encouraging people across the region to get the flu shot as cases, including young people, continue to rise.
Flu cases have increased by 10 per cent in the Barwon South West over the past seven days from Monday, July 15, with cases up by 13 per cent from July 2023.
Barwon Health Department of Infectious DiseasesdirectorProfessorDanielO’Briensaid children aged five to 11 represented the highest
number of cases this year.
“Serious complications and further infections can also occur in the weeks after illness, so see your GP if you aren’t getting better,” he said.
“It’s not too late to have your flu shot. We urge anyone in the community who is able to receive the flu vaccine to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
“Especially very young children, the elderly
or those with medical conditions that put them at risk, such as those involving the lung or immune system.
“It’s also important to know that if you think you may have the flu and have medical conditions that put you at risk, or if you are very unwell, then contact your GP as there are treatments available.”
Barwon Health Emergency Services director Doctor Belinda Hibble said getting vaccinated
Music student Premier’s VCE award
A Bellarine Secondary College student has been recognised for his achievements in VCE VET Music Performance last year.
Marcus Rosman was presented with a Premier’s VCE Award at a ceremony in Melbourne last week for his perfect study score of 50 in Music Performance.
VET Music Performance scored assessment consists of an end of year performance worth 50 per cent of the overall study score, as well as three coursework tasks.
Marcus said he was in shock when he was notified he would receive the award.
“When I got that result (of 50) I was really
happy with it, but then I just moved on to what I was doing next,” he said. “When I got the letter it just brought it all back, a reminder that it was a really good achievement. So yeah, I was pretty happy with it.”
A largely self-taught drummer, Marcus said while his parents always listened to a lot of rock music at home he found music performance “accidentally”.
“I didn’t listen to much music before high school, but then my friends had all done music in primary school, they all knew how to play instruments,” he said.
“None of them had picked drums, so I did
because no one knew how to do it.”
Now performing regularly around Geelong and Melbourne with rock band Blondehouse, Marcus hopes to pursue music full-time but also has a backup plan of paramedicine.
He thanked his teachers Barry Davies and Steve McEwan, who he said were “very important people” to him through his VCE.
“They were really understanding and accommodating of everything that was going on,” Marcus said. “I felt a lot of support from them with what I wanted to get done and they were always there.”
Matt Hewson
was the best way to prevent getting a severe illness from the flu. “Influenza is a highly contagious viral infection that can cause severe illness and life-threatening complications,” she said.
Flu vaccinations are available at GPs or local pharmacies, with bookings also available through Barwon Health’s ImmunisationProgramandarefreeforeligible groups.
Inaugural fair in town
The inaugural Bellarine Disability Fair will bring together more than 10 local organisations supporting the disability sector in one location.
The fair, presented by Geelong RegionalLibrariesandMatchWorks,will have representatives available to answer questions about their support services including City Of Greater Geelong; NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme); Geelong Regional Libraries; Bellarine Living and Learning Centre; genU; MatchWorks; The Inclusion Way; Cocoon SDA Care; In Place; Edge; and Harvey the therapy dog from Harvey’s Wellness Support. MatchWorks East Geelong site manager Dawn Brown is excited to partner with the Geelong Regional Libraries for the initiative.
“This is the first time we have done an event like this locally,” she said.
“Partnering with Geelong Regional Libraries helps us increase visibility of services for the Bellarine community and will improve access for people with disability to the right services.”
DebCairnsfromLaTrobeCommunity Health Services NDIS will host a panel discussion from 10.30am to 11.30am and from noon to 1pm, genU, Bellarine Living and Learning and Geelong Regional Libraries will talk about what they offer to support learning opportunities.
“We’re proud to partner with MatchWorks for this event, focusing on bringing community partners together inoneplace,”GeelongRegionalLibraries’ chief executive Vanessa Schernickau said. The fair is at Leopold Library on Wednesday 31 July from 10am to 2pm. LeopoldLibraryhasaccessibleparking, bathrooms and a hearing loop available. There is a sensory tent and headphones for children. Contact Leopold Library 4201 0675 for more information.
Marcus Rosman received a Premier’s Award for his perfect study score in VCE Music Performance last week. (Patrick Callow)
Celebrating National Tree Day
A community planting event is taking place at Point Lonsdale this Sunday in honour of National Tree Day.
Thousands of trees will be planted across the region, including Lara and Batesford, on July 28 during the country’s largest nature care event to help provide a green environment for future generations.
CityofGreaterGeelongmayorTrentSullivan said a community planting event would occur from 10am to 1pm at 592-670 Shell Road, Point Lonsdale.
“You don’t need to be a green thumb or have
experience in planting trees to take part, as our staff will be there to guide you,” he said.
“National Tree Day is a chance to make a positive contribution to our environment, connect with the broader community and spend time outdoors with friends and family.
“We’re excited to partner with Planet Ark again for National Tree Day, which is responsible for 27 million trees being planted across Australia by five million volunteers since 1996.”
National Tree Day events will also occur
at Lavender Drive Reserve’s drainage basin, Lara, and at the corner of Millpond Lane and Vigneron Avenue in Batesford.
Councillor Peter Murrihy is chair of the Environment and Circular Economy portfolio. He said he looked forward to seeing people helping “make a significant difference to our environment”.
“We’re expecting to plant around 3000 seedlings on National Tree Day and in the days prior by students at two local schools taking part in planting days at the basin,” he said.
New president inducted
Meredith O’Neill has been inducted as Ocean Grove Rotary’s new president.
Meredith said she was looking forward to getting started.
“Iamlookingforwardtoleadingacommitted team of Rotarians who work hard to contribute to our community,” she said.
“Club members value the social connectedness at our club and anticipate a fun filled year of service, fellowship and learning.”
Rotary has been doing good work in local, national and international communities since 1905andOceanGroveRotaryhasbeenmaking a difference on the southern Bellarine for more than 40 years.
Highlights of the last year include: the Great Barwon River Duck Race; the Summer Markets;scheduleddismantlingofplaygrounds for local government with the playgrounds being sent overseas for reassembly; donation of information technology equipment to Loh Baw Middle School in a village in Myanmar; redesign and installation of a storage solution in the Bellarine Salvos Outreach Van; Junior
CommunityAwardProgram(grade6students) and Community Service Awards and annual art show.
The club has been very successful this year and has donated to local, national and international charities,” outgoing president Lynne Carlson said.
“We thank the local community for their support of our fundraising program.” The club donated to Australian bushfire relief and recovery, Libya and Morocco disaster relief, local primary school scholarships, Feed Me
Bellarine, student scholarships in Bali and Nepal, Riding Develops Abilities, Disabled Surfing to mention just a few recipients.
David Larkins and Rod Birrell were joint recipients of the John Fox Award for organisation of club projects during their year. HeatherWillsonandLisaHanleyfortheirwork in community service and to John Karis for his work in vocational service were recognised with Avenues of Service Awards.
Andrea Tierney, Meredith O’Neill, Noel Emselle, Peter Cowburn, Lynne Carlson and Rod Bush were recognised as Paul Harris Fellows.
Rod Bush and Kath Venters received an award from the past district governor Ian McKay for outstanding service in a range of Rotary projects.
Rotary District Governor for 2024-25, Lesley Shedden from Torquay thanked outgoing president Lynne Carlson for her leadership during the last 12 months and congratulated Meredith O’Neill on commencing her year as president.
Drainage works are complete
Drainage upgrades to a low-lying part of Drysdale have been completed, reducing the impact of flash flooding to nearby residents.
After three months of construction, the works addressed a longstanding issue at a trapped low point in Barrands Lane, which increased the flood risk for neighbouring properties.
This risk became evident during heavy rainfalls, including Victoria’s wettest month on record in October 2022.
To mitigate flood risk, new drainage pipes were installed to improve the flow of stormwater from Barrands Lane into an existing pipe in Wyndham Street.
Additionally, new drainage pits were installed, existing pits were upgraded to increase capacity, and a section of Barrands Lane was raised to optimise stormwater flows.
Bellarine Ward councillor Jim Mason acknowledged the upgrade will make a huge difference to nearby residents.
“I want to thank the residents in this areawhohaveendureddrainageissuesfor manyyears;theirpatienceandcontinued advocacy is really appreciated,” he said.
“Events like the once-in-a-generation rainfall of 2022 have shown how important it is to continually strengthen our stormwater services in order to keep residents and their properties safe.”
Greater Geelong Mayor Trent Sullivan highlighted the project as pivotal for resident safety and long-term flood prevention. “This upgrade has been a significant undertaking for our engineers and City workers, from design to completion,” he said. “Flooding is a major concern that can leave impacted residents very vulnerable, so this is a great outcome and will hopefully give nearby residents some peace of mind.”
CVA’s Leah Edwards at a previous tree planting event. (Louisa Jones) 415700_03
Above: The new board: Rod Bush (secretary), John Patton (treasurer), Pearl Macmillan (community service director), Lynne Carlson (past president), Lyndy Stagg (president elect), Meredith O’Neill (president), Paul Brewster (youth service director) and Marita Scott (vocational service director). Absent
Kath Venters. Below: Lynne Carlson (past president) and Lesley Shedden (district 9780 governor) from Torquay Rotary.
New direction for artist
By Matt Hewson
Geelong-based musician Rach Brennan has entered a new phase with the launch of her solo project last month.
With collaboration from brother Liam and Portarlington composer and producer Nick Huggins, Brennan released her new single Moon Love in June ahead of a run of gigs, including a spot at Geelong’s ReSound Festival.
The track marks a significant shift in tone from her previous project, Rach Brennan & the Pines, which she fronted for over four years until the band’s breakup during the pandemic.
The Pines, a slick five-piece combining sophisticated pop arrangements with a joyous folk sound, were characterised by a whimsy, naivety and fun that perfectly captured the experience of being in one’s 20s.
Finding success on the festival circuit, Rach Brennan & the Pines released one album and a handful of singles before finishing with a bang in a celebratory show at the Barwon Club in June 2021.
Brennan said her new material reflected a natural change in her own space.
“I think this new stuff is more about embracing a more mature, moodier side of life,” she said.
“I used to write stuff like this often, but I didn’t feel like it was ‘Pinesy’ enough, we were more dancey.
“So this music is probably a bit more authentic to where I’m at now, and I’m trying to lean into that. Different instruments, more synthesisers, even vocoders and autotune, manipulating sound a bit differently.
“The Pines, it’s very much five vocalists in harmony, a huge sound, and I think this will be more vulnerable and stripped back.”
Brennan has also released a series of behind the scenes videos examining the making of Moon Love with her two collaborators, demonstrating how what she’s doing now is “more than just a solo project”.
“I would say it stems from me, but it’s very much a collaboration with Liam and Nick,” she said.
“We’ve pretty much gone into the studio, arranged everything around my songwriting
together, played all the instruments together.”
Having recorded a number of other songs already, Brennan hopes to release two more singles in the second half of the year, culminatinginanalbum-lengthbodyofwork.
“I say album, but it feels to me like singles and more singles will trickle out and then it’ll be part of this kind of project,” she said.
“Hopefully within the next 12 months it’ll all be in the world.”
The Conquerors of Geelong
A free history talk exploring the lives and careers of 100 of the region’s greatest sports stars is coming to Geelong on Sunday.
Former sports journalist John Craven will speak about his book, The Conquerors: 100 Geelong Region All-TimeInternationalSportsGreatsand Brownlow Medallists, at the National Wool Museum from 1.30pm to 3pm on July 28. Mr Craven started writing the book in 1975, initially attempting to pick out his top 50 Geelong sports stars before putting the project on hold for 43 years.
“Geelong was known back then as Sleepy Hollow and I used to get some good-natured ridicule from my fellow sportswriters,” he said. “I was a very patriotic Geelong person, and I still am, and with all this ridicule that I was coping with, I thought to myself, ‘You other blokes need to know something about Geelong’.
“In those intervening 43 years, many other young athletes had come to the floor, and they deserved places in the top 50 more than some of the ones that I already had, so I had to extend it to 100.”
Mr Craven said he felt “privileged” to write his book, which was released in October 2022, and looked forward to sharing that with the Geelong community on Sunday.
The event forms part of the Geelong Museum Association’s monthly Sunday Series of talks, with afternoon tea provided and a gold coin donation appreciated.
Jena Carr
Rach Brennan has released Moon Love, the first single for her new solo project. (Supplied)
Upgrades aplenty
By Cr Trent Sullivan
When different layers of government collaborate to fund vital community infrastructure, we all win.
On the Bellarine, there have been some fantastic examples of the City of Greater Geelong working with the state and federal governments to fund much-needed community projects.
A couple of weeks ago, the state government announced $1 million in funding for an all-abilities pavilion at Wallington Reserve through their Regional Community Sports Infrastructure Fund.
This funding is in addition to the $3.25 million that the City of Greater Geelong allocated for the project in its 2024-25 budget.
Wallington Reserve’s current clubrooms, built in 1987, urgently need upgrading.
The upgrade will include extending the pavilion to accommodate two compliant change rooms, a shared canteen, social space with internal toilets and additional storage.
The project will also include relocating the existing non-compliant public toilets and improving car parking and access roads.
Wallington Reserve is home to Wallington Cricket Club and Bellarine Bears Baseball Club, which both run highly successful all-abilities programs.
In a region as fast-growing as ours, it’s vital that we plan to build facilities to match this population growth.
Council is dedicated to delivering quality spaces and places where needed, and there are many other examples of the three levels of government working together to build vital infrastructure on the Bellarine.
Late last year, we saw the opening of stage one of North Bellarine Aquatic Centre, with
the eight-lane, 50-metre heated outdoor pool opening in time for summer.
This project has seen significant investment from local, state and federal governments.
Stage two of the project, a $40 million indoor aquatic centre to be built alongside the outdoor pool, has seen $20 million in funding
commitments from both the Victorian and Australian governments.
TheBoronggookDrysdaleLibraryisanother fantastic example of how co-contributions work effectively.
Council contributed $8.156 million and the Victorian Government $1 million to this innovative building, which features a planted roofscape with 4300 plants including 18 different native species.
The building was recently shortlisted for the Australian Institute of Architects’ 2024 Victorian Architecture Awards.
Over in Barwon Heads, the local bowling club received a $1.2 million upgrade thanks to a collaborative effort between council and the Australian and Victorian governments.
In this case, the federal government’s $500,000 funding contribution was matched by an equal commitment from the City of Greater Geelong and $200,000 from the Victorian government.
These funding injections from all levels of government recognise the overall growth of the Bellarine population and the importance of promoting an active lifestyle.
Council prides itself on providing places andspacesthatbringthecommunitytogether.
When local, state, and federal governments collaborate on community projects, we can achieve more ambitious and comprehensive projects that might not be possible with a single funding source.
The City of Greater Geelong is committed to working effectively with state and federal governments to continue delivering these much-needed projects to the community.
By pooling our resources and expertise, we ensure all residents of the Geelong region have access to world-class facilities now and into the future.
City of Greater Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan. (Supplied)
New equipment for SES
Four Victoria State Emergency Service (VICSES) Barwon South West units are changing how its volunteers respond to emergencies thanks to new equipment.
VICSES’ Bellarine, Torquay, South Barwon, and Corio Road Crash Rescue (RCR) accredited units have received state-of-the-art battery-powered hydraulic tools.
The hoseless Pentheon equipment range allowed volunteers to manage rescue-related emergencies without an external hydraulic pump source through a VICSES.
Capability deputy chief officer David Baker said 47 VICSES RCR units would have the new equipment by the end of July.
“VICSES volunteers play a vital role in the
state’s integrated agencies approach to RCR,” he said.
“It’s important they have the equipment they need to respond to emergencies efficiently and safely on our roadways.
“Almost 50 VICSES Units across Victoria are trained and using the state-of-the-art battery-powered hydraulics, providing them with increased capability to support their communities.”
Other VICSES Barwon South West Region units that have received the new equipment included Hamilton, Port Fairy, Portland, Colac, and Warrnambool.
The equipment will allow volunteers more freedom and flexibility in accessing rescue
incidents in hard-to-reach locations.
VICSES Barwon South West Region volunteers have attended more than 200 rescue-related incidents this year.
The South Barwon, Corio, Colac, and Warrnambool units have attended more than 20 incidents each, with 1500 rescue incidents occurringthroughoutthestateduringtheyear.
The hoseless Pentheon range of equipment is developed by Netherlands manufacturer Holmatro, with each kit valued at more than $115,000.
This month’s rollout of the equipment concluded a four-year process to update RCR capacityatcloseto50locationsacrossthestate, with each unit trained in the equipment’s use.
Greater Geelong City Council postal election
My council, my vote
You must be enrolled to vote
A general election for Greater Geelong City Council will be held in October 2024. To be able to vote in the election, you must be
Two categories of voters can be enrolled to vote in the Greater Geelong City Council election: State-enrolled voters and Council-enrolled voters.
State-enrolled voters
Am I enrolled to vote?
You are automatically enrolled for this election if:
• you will be 18 years of age or over on Saturday 26 October 2024 and
• you live in the City of Greater Geelong and you are on the State electoral roll for your current address.
You need to enrol if:
• you are an Australian citizen aged 18 or over on Saturday 26 October 2024 and
• you live in the City of Greater Geelong and you are not on the State electoral roll or you have lived at your current residential address within the City of Greater Geelong for at least a month and have not yet updated your enrolment details, including any changes to your postal address.
How do I enrol?
You can enrol online at vec.vic.gov.au
You can also download an enrolment form from the website. All enrolment applications must be received by the Victorian Electoral Commission by the close of roll at 4 pm on Wednesday 7 August 2024.
How can I check my State enrolment?
You can check your enrolment details online at vec.vic.gov.au at any time, or call 131 832.
Council-enrolled voters
Am I enrolled to vote?
To be a Council-enrolled voter, you must be:
• 18 years of age or over on Saturday 26 October 2024 and
• not a State-enrolled voter within the City of Greater Geelong.
New rules mean you are no longer automatically enrolled if you are a non-resident property owner (e.g. a landlord or a business owner that pays rates). If you are a non-resident property owner within the City of Greater Geelong, you need to apply to enrol if you wish to vote in the Greater Geelong City Council election.
Who else can enrol & vote?
You may also apply to enrol if:
• you have purchased a rateable property within the City of Greater Geelong since the last election but you are not a resident of the City of Greater Geelong, or you are not an Australian citizen and you live in, and pay rates for, a property within the City of Greater Geelong, or you pay rates on a property you occupy within the City of Greater Geelong and have no other voting entitlement within the City of Greater Geelong, for example you are a shop tenant and pay rates to the Council for your tenancy, and you have no other voting entitlement within the City of Greater Geelong, or
• you are a director or company secretary of a corporation within the City of Greater Geelong that pays rates to Greater Geelong City Council and you have no other voting entitlement within the City of Greater Geelong.
Better ways to treat waste
Barwon Water will engage in an innovative new project to oxygen by-producttomakewastewatertreatment moreeffectivethankstofundingfroman independent federal government agency.
The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) announced a commitment of $3 million in funding for the Green Oxygen for Wastewater Treatment project.
Through the project Barwon Water will investigate the use of pure oxygen to treat water more efficiently and reduce wastewater treatment plant emissions.
The oxygen used will be produced as a by-product by the Viva Energy Hub’s new hydrogen refuelling station, which will itself use recycled water supplied by Barwon Water and renewable energy to produce hydrogen.
Barwon Water managing director Shaun Cumming said the project aligned with the organisation’s strategy to enable regional prosperity through innovation, strategic partnerships and renewable energy.
“This innovative project aims to enhance wastewater treatment efficiency by using oxygen-enriched air,” Mr Cumming said.
“By doing so, our plants can operate more efficiently, consume less energy, and have longer lifespans, ultimately leading to cost savings at every stage.”
Barwon Water also announced its purchase of a hydrogen-powered prime mover, the first of its kind in Victoria, as part of the decarbonisation of its fleet of maintenance and service vehicles.
How do I apply to be a Council-enrolled voter?
If you meet any of the above criteria and wish to enrol, contact Greater Geelong City Council on 5272 5272 for a council enrolment form. Council enrolment forms must be received by the Council by the close of roll at 4 pm on Wednesday 7 August 2024
How can I check if I am Council-enrolled?
You can check your enrolment details by contacting the Council on 5272 5272.
Thinking about standing for election?
To nominate as a candidate for Greater Geelong City Council, you must:
• be an Australian citizen and enrolled on the voters’ roll for Greater Geelong City Council and be eligible to become a councillor and have completed the mandatory candidate training provided by Local Government Victoria before lodging your nomination with the Election Manager.
For further information, visit vec.vic.gov.au
Enrolment closes 4 pm Wednesday 7 August 2024
State-enrolled voters can register for free VoterAlert SMS and email reminders at vec.vic.gov.au
VICSES volunteers with the new battery-powered hydraulic equipment. (Supplied)
Orange Door a success
The Orange Door Access Point Bellarine in Drysdale met with staff from Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence Vicki Ward to hear more about how the state government’s investment in family violence prevention and response is having an impact in the Barwon region.
Orange Door locations provide coordinated help and support for people experiencing family violence, and for families needing support for the wellbeing and development of children.
The Orange Door network brings together specialist family violence, child and family and Aboriginal services to provide crisis assistance and support, risk and needs assessment, safety planning and connection to other services.
“Wecontinuetostrengthenandbuildonour earlier work to prevent and respond to family violence in Victoria,” Ms Ward said.
“Through our investment in the Orange Door network, including this Access Point in Drysdale, we have made it easier for people who have experienced family violence to access the help and support they need.”
The Orange Door Bellarine Access Point,
part of The Orange Door network in Barwon, is co-located with Bellarine Community Health and includes a reception with a dedicated waiting area for clients, two private consultation rooms and a secure staff working area for The Orange Door workers. It builds on existing family violence support services in the area and is a partnership between the Victorian government and Sexual Assault and Family Violence Centre (SAFV), Meli, Wathaurong Cooperative and Colac Area Health.
Since its opening in May 2018, The Orange Door Barwon has provided support to more than 40,000 people including more than 15,000 children. The Drysdale Access Point, an additional point for accessing The Orange Door in Barwon, opened in September 2023.
People can access support face to face by visiting Orange Door locations, or via telephone or email.
The Orange Door network in Barwon is a free service and can be contacted on 1800 312 820 or via barwon@orangedoor.vic.gov.au from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday.
Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence
Vicki Ward, Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant, The Orange Door West Division Director Alysha Batty, The Orange Door Barwon Hub Manager Tracie McPherson and Bellarine Community Health Acting CEO Kathy Russell. (Supplied)
Sports museum hopes to inspire
The Geelong Sports Museum, a monument to some of Geelong and Australia’s greatest ever athletes and their stories, officially opened this week at GMHBA Stadium this week.
Dignitariesandmembersofthesportingand academic communities gathered at Kardinia Park on Tuesday, July 16 to celebrate the years of advocacy for the museum and the results of that work.
The museum, which has been open to the public since its soft launch in June, features a diverse range of loaned sporting artefacts, photos and stories detailing the journeys of some of Geelong’s greatest sporting heroes and a range of interactive installations such as a virtual row down the Barwon River.
Bob Gartland OAM, whose passion and advocacy drove the project from its inception, said the museum was “uniquely Geelong”.
“The whole essence of the Geelong Sports Museum is built around people,” Mr Gartland said.
“Weareauniquecity.IthinkGeelongpeople are unique and I think the way that Geelong people play sport is unique.
“Some of the greatest names in sport are in this museum; Brownlow, Cadel Evans. We could have built ten museums, honestly, there arethatmanystoriesofGeelongpeopleandthe great things that they’ve done.”
Kardinia Park Stadium Trust chief executive Gerard Griffin said it was exciting to see the work of so many people come to fruition.
“I think it’s great for us to reflect on the
calibre of people that come from this region and just how broad that sporting prowess is,” he said.
“We hope it will inspire. We want to see
Big Red Kidney Bus returns
The Big Red Kidney Bus has come to Torquay to provide a free dialysis service to people, creating an opportunity for patients to travel safely.
Kidney Health Australia’s bus arrived with Monash Health dialysis nurses for the fourth time at the Torquay Foreshore Caravan Park on Monday, July 15, and would stay there until August 10.
AllanKidstonhadonekidneyremoved close to four years ago after doctors suspected he had cancer, which instead turned into a kidney disease diagnosis.
Mr Kidston used the bus for the seventh time on Wednesday, July 17, travelling from his home at a retirement village north of Melbourne to Torquay.
“Both kidneys weren’t working and now I only have one kidney operating, well not really operating, under dialysis,” he said.
“I encourage everyone to use it (the bus) because if they don’t, we may lose it... The nurses that man the bus are very dedicated and experienced, and friendly with everyone who uses the service.”
There were 1652 people diagnosed with chronic kidney disease in the Corio electorate last year according to data from Kidney Health Australia.
GeneralmanagerofcommunityMaria O’Sullivan said the service allowed people receiving treatment in a clinic to travel to other parts of the country.
“They’re usually needing treatment threedaysaweekforaboutfivehoursata time every other day, so it really prevents them from travelling any great distance,” she said.
“It’s (the bus) staffed by highly trained renal nurses, and patients are getting the same level of care and support on the bus as they would in their own dialysis unit.”
People living with kidney disease can contact Kidney Health Australia on 1800 454 353 or visit kidney.org.au/bus for more information and to book the bus service.
Jena Carr
young people come here and be enthralled and motivated to pursue their passions, their dreams.”
Matt Hewson
Allan Kidston used the Big Red Kidney Bus in Torquay this week, providing him with dialysis treatment and a trip from north Melbourne. (Ivan Kemp) 418977_04
John Eren, Christine Couzens MP, Bob Gartland, Corrina Eccles, Iain Martin and Kim Forbes officially open the Geelong Sports Museum. (Ivan Kemp) 418825_08
MY BELLARINE
Author Glenda MacNaughton has spent much of her life in the Bellarine and loves sharing her works with the community. She speaks with Jena Carr about what she loves about living and working in Drysdale.
What is your connection to Drysdale?
I have lived and worked in Drysdale for over 15 years, and walking my dog on the beach at the Clifton Springs Boat Harbour is a regular pleasure.
What do you like about where you live?
I love the big skies, closeness to nature and the beach in the remnant bushland and around the wonderful lakes of Drysdale. The Bellarine offers great music, food and art venues close by, andthere’savibrantcommunityoffolkstrying to make a positive difference in the world.
What, if anything, would you change about where you live?
I’d love to see more exciting, shiny, and glassy street art that enhances the built environment and entices people to the area by providing moments of wonder, joy, and awe for visitors and locals alike.
On a different note, I’d also love a great local fresh fruit and vegetable shop in the centre of town.
Where is your favourite place to spend time? It’s a toss-up between walking around and enjoying the bird life around the Drysdale lakes, watching sunsets at the boat ramp, and snuggling down in my home.
What is something people may not know about you?
Some people know that I blow glass; others do not. Some people know I write; others do not. SomepeopleknowIspentmychildhoodonthe Bellarine; others will not. It depends on who it is and what they know about me, and I’m still learning about myself.
turned to it in my travels with grief in recent years with the sudden loss of my soulmate and partner and with the death of my mother.
Geelong says no more violence
By Matt Hewson
The Geelong community is coming together to take part in a national rally to demand action on the growing epidemic of male violence against women.
Community not-for-profit What Were You Wearinginvitedallmembersofthecommunity to attend No More: A National Rally Against Violence held in Geelong’s Market Square Mall at 11am on Sunday, July 28.
What Were You Wearing organised a series of rallies around Australia over three days in April this year, calling on politicians to take decisive action on gendered violence.
The events were a huge success, with 1000,000 activating nationwide including more than 5000 people in Geelong.
Despitetheclearmessagetothegovernment, not much has changed over the past few months.
Politicians including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese participated in the April rallies and a national cabinet meeting was held, but the number of women killed by men in 2024 has nearly doubled since then, from 27 to around 50.
For this weekend, rally organisers have narrowed their focus, presenting government and change-makers with two specific demands.
The first is for mandatory trauma-informed training for first responders across Australia, while the second is for funding for grassroots organisations in the domestic, family, and
Vital role of women in AV
Ambulance Victoria (AV) is celebrating its female paramedics as the organisation celebrates 37 years since the introduction of women in ambulance service roles.
The state’s first two women paramedics joined the service on July 27, 1987, with this Saturday, July 27, marking 37 years of women providing emergency care.
ActingGreaterGeelongseniorteammanager Alyce Message started working with AV in 2008 and said there were much fewer women working across the organisation at the time.
“I started when I was 21 years old, so I was young and a female, but all of my colleagues welcomed me and didn’t treat me any differently,” she said.
Ms Message said women now make up 52 per cent of AV’s operational workforce and that she has had several opportunities including in management roles within her career.
“I feel really honoured to represent the females within the job, and that I can not only successfully have a career, but also successfully have a family,” she said.
“I’m a mum of three kids; 8, 6 and 2. So, the juggle is definitely there but it’s fantastic that I can continue my career as a paramedic along with raising a family.
“Every day and job are so different, and AV has a fantastic community. I’ve got lifelong friends from my colleagues, and that’s a huge positive of the job.”
AV chief executive Jane Miller said a diverse and inclusive workforce helped reflect the community paramedics served.
“I express my gratitude to the women who led the way, overcoming extraordinary barriers to join the ambulance service in the late ’80s and early ’90s,” she said.
Jena Carr
sexual violence sector, including men’s behaviour change programs and women’s refuges.
Rachel Sumich-Antonik, part of the team
organising the Geelong rally, said this second round of rallies was about keeping the issue “top of mind” for policymakers.
“We’ve selected those two demands to try to makeitmoremanageableforthepowerholders to follow through,” Ms Sumich-Antonik said.
The event will begin with a Welcome to Country by Wadawurrung woman Corrina Eccles before hearing from a range of speakers including Julie Saylor-Briggs, a community advocate for First Nations women and children.
Ms Saylor-Briggs said the current model of grassroots services funding wasn’t working.
“A lot of our community organisations, Aboriginal community-controlled orgs and other programs are not funded in a permanent manner,” she said.
“They’re funded according to competitive or non-competitive grant rounds, through proposals or releases of initiatives from government post elections. We need to have consistency and regularity.”
After hearing from the speakers and listening to a song dedicated to women who have lost their lives, the gathering will march around a short circuit in the CBD.
What Were You Wearing volunteer Maddie Fogarty, who was inspired to join the organisation after attending the April rally, encouraged people to come and take part.
“Rallies are a really easy way to get involved; you can just show up and listen or you can choose to take part in the march as well,” she said. “Last time there were young children, all the way up to elderly people taking part in the march, it’s at quite a slow pace so it’s quite accessible.”
Visit whatwereyouwearingaus.org for more information.
Acting Greater Geelong senior team manager Alyce Message is proud to celebrate 37 years of women in ambulance roles. (Ivan Kemp) 420714_07
What Are You Wearing has organised a second rally against violence to women for this weekend. (Louisa Jones) 420363_02
Presented
Top talents of the Bellarine
By Matt Hewson
The Barwon Club will host a showcase of the Bellarine’s best up and coming musical talent at an all-ages show.
Bellarine On the Rise will feature a bevy of young homegrown musicians who have developed and perform regularly around the region.
An initiative of well-known Ocean Grove musician Andrea Robertson, the event is supported by the City of Greater Geelong through its Community Grants program and sponsored by Geelong Japanese restaurant chain Hi Sushi.
Robertson said the event was all about providing an opportunity to the next generation of local musicians.
“As a working musician myself, looking at a lot of the younger crew and seeing the state of the current music industry, this is about trying to provide another opportunity for them, to showcase the talent from our region,” she said.
“(All these musicians) are actively pursuing music, so this is a chance for them to network with each other and try to keep some
momentum going, because it’s not an easy time to land gigs.”
Bellarine On the Rise will be headlined by Wallington-based alt rockers Bones & Jones, who performed at South by Southwest Festival in Austin, Texas in March and completed a national tour in April.
Joining Bones & Jones are indie quartet Brunette Red Dress, punk-rock singer/ songwriter Carly Jorja, blues-rocker Heath Robertson and vibey power-pop band Paraquay.
Bones&JonesbassistBaileyBatessaidtrying to break into the music industry while based on the Bellarine provided both advantages and challenges to young musicians.
“Everyone (in the local music scene) is really close and supportive of each other, which you don’t often get living in the big cities,” he said.
“Sothere’slotsmoresupport,showslikethis, which purposefully spotlight up-and-coming bands rather than just being another show. Also there’s a lot more space to be able to clear your mind and be creative.”
All-ages event Bellarine On the Rise is at the Barwon Club from 2pm to 8pm on Sunday, August 4.
August 4.
Tribute to two country greats
Award-winning musician Leslie Martin has been performing since before she can remember.
With both parents working in vaudeville with the likes of Lucky Grills, Bobby Limb and Dawn Lake, she was exposed to performers constantly.
“When you’re a kid you take things in, and I began to sing,” Martin said.
“At two and a half I sang Love Is a Many-Splendored Thing, word for word they say. So I guess that was the beginning.
“I always wanted to go there. Kids play games, dollies and all those things; my games were singing games.”
Once she reached adulthood, Martin, also an accomplished guitar, slide guitar and piano player, joined the festival and club circuit. But
Music to the Potato Shed.
Martin’s show celebrates the life and music of two of country music’s most iconic female artists, Patsy Cline and Dolly Parton. She said both music of both women continued to resonate with people because of their authenticity. Leslie Martin performs Queens of Country Music at the Potato Shed at 9pm on Saturday,August3.Bookatpotatoshed.com.au or call 5251 1988.
Matt Hewson
Bones & Jones will headline Bellarine On the Rise at the Barwon Club on Sunday,
Low water levels good for birding
Last week I went for a walk in Ocean Grove Nature Reserve and was struck by how dry the ponds were for this time of year.
I’ll have to go back soon to compare water levels after this week when the heavens have opened.
My rain gauge revealed that over 50 mm of rain had fallen in a two-day period, which was much needed.
It’s been too wet to go out with the camera over the past week, which is a shame as there’s been a few unusual birds around the area.
There’s been a brown gergoyne at Geelong Botanic Gardens. This bird is found along the east coast of Australia with the southern sub-species usually found from Cooktown, Queensland, to Sale, Victoria.
There has also been an eastern osprey seen at Swan Bay Pier. These magnificent, fish-eating raptors can be occasionally seen in the non-breeding season in Victoria and Tasmania.
I did a fleeting visit to Western Treatment Plant on my way to Melbourne one day. The water level in the crake pond at T-section lagoons was perfect for viewing crakes as the level was quite low. There were a few spotted crakes feeding between the reeds, which was lovely to see, as well as three little grassbirds feeding in the mud. There were also seven brolgas in a small flock.
I also had a quick visit to Robin and Gary Spry’s farm at Point Lonsdale. Robin took me
for a drive around the farm, and it was so cold and windy that all the birds were sheltering out of sight.
Robin told me that she’s seen a fan-tailed cuckoo and possible pink robin on her farm recently. Fan-tailed cuckoos usually move to warmer northern areas this time of year and return to Victoria in breeding season, but there is the odd bird that chooses to over winter in southern Victoria. I received an email from Ann, who lives
in the Wallington area. One day when Ann drove her car out of her garage, she sighted two species of ‘never before seen’ birds on her property, but unfortunately, she was unable to capture the birds on camera. One of the species was aparrot with a prominent orange blotch on the belly and deep blue on wing edge.
Ann asked me is this bird could have been a critically endangered orange-bellied parrot to which I replied that with only around 50 of these birds existing in the wild it would be
unlikely. Blue-winged parrots and red-rumped parrots do have orange-yellow bellies and blue wing edges, so it would be more likely to have been one of these two species that Ann observed.
The other bird species that Ann saw in her paddock was a white-faced heron, which is a great bird to have on the property. Anne also told me that she has eastern spinebills and spotted pardalotes in her garden currently, which sounds so lovely.
Jen’s spotted crake, and little grassbird (inset), at Western Treatment Plant.
Locals cashing in fast at CDS Breakwater
Victoria’s Container Deposit Scheme (CDS) gains local momentum as more families, sports clubs and small businesses choose to exchange their cans for cash at the automated drive-through depot operated by the Brotherhood of St Laurence (BSL).
“It’s been a whirlwind of a journey since we opened last November, and really fantastic to help so many families, sports clubs and small businesses make some much needed extra cash through the program,” logistics operations manager of social enterprises at BSL Kevin Tout says.
“We’re seeing lots of regulars come through withboot-loadsofeligibledrinkcontainersthat we sort and process within minutes. The kids
get a real kick out of watching the machines spin and the conveyor belts go.”
“And of course, the best part for those kids is the pocket money they’ve earned. The program is such a valuable way to teach our kids about sustainability and recycling, and parents are sayingtheylovehavingajobfortheirkidstodo to earn pocket money for the next lot of school holidays.”
TheCDSVicBreakwaterdepothasprocessed over four million drink containers to date, and the team are excited to see what the future holds for the local community.
“It’s not just the families that come through, but it’s also the local social groups and sports clubs that have embraced us,” says Kevin.
“We’re a non-profit social justice organisation, and it’s important that we continue to provide opportunities for everyone to make a difference. Healthy communities are thriving communities, and through Victoria’s CDS scheme, everyone can participate in keeping used drink containers out of landfill while making some extra cash to keep or donate back to us at BSL”.
Simply start collecting eligible drink containers and return them to the CDS Vic Breakwater depot at 6 Haworth Court, Breakwater. It’s an undercover, automated, drive-through depot, with a friendly team who are always happy to help.
“We’ll pay the 10 cent refund per eligible
drink container direct to your nominated bank account once you’ve linked it to the CDS Vic West App,” explains Kevin.
“And if you run a local business or a sports club, pop down and chat to us about how we can help you join the program.”
To find out what you can return, simply look for the 10 cent mark on eligible drink containers.
For more information on how you can get involved visit bsl.org.au/services/ sustainability. Call 1300 366 283 or visit the team at 6 Haworth Court, Breakwater (9am to 4.30pm Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 4.30pm Saturday).
Left: Brotherhood of St Laurence team with some customers. Right: Brotherhood of St Laurence’s Brian, Kevin and Thomas. (Pictures: Supplied)
A life of music and family
Clifton Springs singer-songwriter Sarah Carroll released her latest album, NQR&B, on July 5 with an upcoming launch taking place in Geelong in September. Sarah speaks with Jena Carr about her new album and more than 30-year musical career.
Even in her earliest memories, singer-songwriter Sarah Carroll recalls always being drawn to music and sharing that love with everyone around her.
The Clifton Springs woman grew up near Melbourne in a household that “listened to music a lot“ and where everyone was “encouraged to write and sing”.
“I had parents who loved to sing and listen to music, neither of them played an instrument, and my stepdad was the same,” she says.
“I feel very grateful for the rich palette of music that I was exposed to because I’m aware that many kids have far less music in their lives growingup.AlltherelationshipsIhad,mydeep friendships and my romantic relationships were all formed in the musical sort of sphere, and I followed that almost unconsciously.
“I learnt that singing was just part of life, a normal part of everyday life, and...as soon as I was aware of the guitar, I wanted the guitar. I wanted to play it, and when I was maybe 12, I got my first one. I didn’t have any lessons, and of course there was no internet or anything, so I couldn’t look up how to play any of the things that I loved when I was a kid, but I listened and figured things out.”
Sarah’s life has continued to be guided by music, which led her to late husband and blues musician Chris Wilson.
“We got plunked on a stage together by a friend of ours who was running a benefit for Vietnam Veterans,” she said “We hadn’t even had a conversation at this point. We knew who each other was because we were hanging out in a lot of the same places, and of course, I was aware of his music.
“We’ve seen each other around and all that, butwe’dnevertalked,sothereweweretogether playing and then not long after that, we got to meet properly and have a proper conversation.
“Our social lives at that point, and the same with my brother and a lot of my mates, was centredaroundaplacecalledthePuntersClub, which was a pub in Fitzroy.
“It was his favourite hangout, he used to play there a lot and I worked there for years...I’d wait for hours for him to show up and then pretendthatIjustshowedup,andhewasdoing the same.”
Sarah and Chris’ sons Fenn Wilson and George Carroll Wilson have since followed in their parents’ footsteps, becoming much-loved musicians in their own right.
Sarah said she felt “very lucky” to be able to help foster Fenn and George’s careers by bringing them into the musical world.
“They’re just incredible, and they still want to be part of our worlds and proudly wear that badge of belonging to this family,” she said.
“They studied music at school a little bit, but they learnt from their mates and would come to us if they needed help with something, but it
was all about them.
“Fenn, our older son, started playing with Chriswhenhewasabout18.Hestartedplaying drums and they formed a trio with Shannon Bourne called Skronkadoodledoo.
“I remember Fenn coming off stage from a gig they did at Port Fairy one time, and his hands were bloody because he put everything he had into playing the drums.
“I brought George into my musical world while recording my previous big album. He was 16 when we started recording that...and it became a very collaborative and wonderful relationship.
“He’d been playing in a band for several years before that, and I knew he was up to it. So, he became the person who played the most on that record...and he was all over that album.
“I feel very blessed that the boys are still willing to share their gifts with me, as they both have their own stuff going on. They’re so much better than me, and so much better than Chris was.”
Sarah has worked with many musicians and bands, such as GIT and Tin Stars, and is well known as the Ukulele Queen of the Bellarine,
a title given to her by friend and Tin Stars lead singer Susan Russell.
“It’s not everything I do, but it is a lovely thing to be called the queen of anything, so I’m happy about it,” she said.
“If only I’d known about the ukulele when I was little. I probably heard it, but I didn’t know you could get one of your very own.
“The band that I was in, GIT, was touring with Jeff Lang and his band to promote an album we’d sang on with him. So, we did this national tour and a lot of it was in a bus on the road. One of the band members in Jeff’s band, Tim Hall, had a crappy little mahalo ukulele with him and would amuse us with various ditties inspired by passing pedestrians or whatever.
“I was watching him do it and enjoying it immensely...When I got home and got one of my own, I started mucking around on it. That was about 15 years ago.”
In 2019, Sarah and her sons were faced with thelossoftheirfatherandhusbandwhenChris died of pancreatic cancer at age 62.
They honour Chris through songs such as The Artist Original, which explores the feeling
of grief and what it means to let go, on Sarah’s new album NQR&B, released on July 5.
Sarah said it was an “absolute blessing” to be still creating music at 57 years old and that her album will be launched in Geelong on September 22 at the Barwon Club.
“As a writer, it’s wonderful to feel that you’ve reached out and connected with others in the process of expressing yourself,” she said.
“I’m 57 and proud. Every year that I live on this earth is a gift and a blessing...and I’ll stop (playing music) when I can’t hold a guitar or play the drums anymore.
“There are a million things that I love about music,butIthinkthechiefthingisthatithelps you reach out and form a connection with another person.
“When you think about it, (music) is the fastest way to connect with another person, and you can form a close relationship with somebody when you play music with them.
“It’s (NQR&B album) a collection of songs that I’ve had around for a varying length of time...and it is a truly autobiographical record, but I’ve attempted to make the stories relatable to others as well.”
Sarah Carroll with her latest album NQR&B. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 420430
FOCUS ON INCLUSIVITY
Experience the magic at Geelong Arts Centre
With a diverse and exciting lineup of shows on the horizon, Geelong Arts Centre warmly welcomes families with children of all abilities to upcoming programs and the second annual Wonder Children’s Festival to experience the inspirational world of live performances in a safe and welcoming setting.
Promising a celebration of creativity, inclusivity and joy, Geelong Arts Centre ensures that every child has an opportunity to be inspired by the arts.
Central to the celebration of creativity and accessibility at Geelong Arts Centre is WonderboxbySensoriumTheatre,apioneering production designed to cater to children with disabilities and their families.
On August 17, Wonderbox invites young audiences, aged eight and up, on an immersive journey where sensory exploration meets theatrical magic. The innovative experience features an inclusive design, providing a supportive environment where children with diverseneedscanengagefullyinthestorytelling process.
Through interactive elements, multisensory stimuli, and a carefully crafted narrative, Wonderbox encourages self-expression, social interaction, and emotional development. At its core, Wonderbox exemplifies Geelong Arts Centre’s commitment to accessibility and community engagement. Every detail of the production – from tactile installations to adaptable seating and sensory surprises – is meticulously planned to ensure that every child can participate and enjoy the experience to the fullest.
Sensorium Theatre is Australia’s only
company making live shows specifically designedforyoungaudienceswithdisabilityand internationally, they are gaining a reputation as a world leader in inclusive theatre making.
In tandem with Wonderbox, Geelong Arts Centre proudly presents I Wish…, from Patch Theatre in collaboration with Gravity & Other Myths, a highly engaging production performing during Wonder Children’s Festival on September 24 and 25.
This electric performance blends gravity-defying acrobatics with a captivating colour and light show to create a kaleidoscopic experience, teaching children the magic of individuality. The visual focus of I Wish... ensures children with auditory processing barrierscanenjoyandengagewiththestunning performance without boundaries.
Exemplifying Geelong Art Centre’s commitment to inclusivity, upcoming Wonder Children’s Festival performances such as IMAGINE LIVE, Little Blue Dot and The Gruffalo will have sessions available featuring Auslan interpretation to ensure that all attendees, including those who are deaf or hard of hearing, can fully engage and participate in the experience.
Geelong Arts Centre has created a space for inclusivity and imagination offering a memorable experience for all. Offering a setting where every child is welcomed, valued, and able to explore the wonders of the arts in a safe and supportive space.
To find out more and to book tickets, head to geelongartscentre.org.au/whats-on/ family-magic-2024/
Right and below: I Wish... is at Geelong Arts Centre on September 24 and 25. (Daniel Boud and Darcy Grant)
Wonderbox comes to GAC on August 17. (Supplied)
Dining and shopping in Barwon Heads
Above: Laura Contesenne and her daughter Chloe.
Left: Claire Hocking and Erik Holt.
Tony and Edwina Egan with Milly.
Deb and Hugh Brodie, Laura Atkins and Jen Warnick with her granddaughter Lucy.
Top left: Rosie Tunn McGrath and Ruby Mangelsdorf. Left: Pam Hill. Centre: Sam Edis and Jo Rix. Right: Lynne and Steve Wheler from Dodges Ferry, Tasmania. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 420377
Wes wins writing competition number four
Wes Furyk
There were only 10 entrants for this difficult writing task based on a picture. Some writers concentrated on the details of the picture while others used the picture as a stimulus to an unusual approach such as a clairvoyant session or a story about a business venture. Highly recommended were Ali Holborn, Glen Taylor and Alana Hannaford. Please note that the advertisement for topic five is your last chance to make the final which offers a prize of $1000.
Judges’ comment:
The story opens with a pertinent comment about Pip’s marital status and ends with a casual but biting one sentence conclusion. The story is then framed around the discovery of the old photo of five friends, then a detailed description of the character and the funeral of one of their beloved friends. It ends with playing one of their games that has an emphasis on their hands. This was a well-rounded story based on the stimulus of the picture of the five hands.
Paper on the Table
By Wes Furyk
Pip sat in the middle of the room and surveyed the chaos. It was always the same; her husband professed good intentions, but when it came to doing something, Frank always found a way to avoid it.
“Don’t worry darling,” he said. “Do what you can and we’ll finish tomorrow. I just found out about these tickets and it’s too late to pull out.”
They were downsizing their home in a couple of weeks and Frank decided it would be cheaper to do their own packing; then he left everything to her. The ‘junk room’, largely full of unopened boxes from previous moves, was the last. It should have been easy, but once again, she had to deal with it alone while Frank went to the footy with his mates; earlier that day he was too tired to watch his grandsons play.
With a sigh she cut through the tape of the nearest box and began the impossible task of deciding what needed to be discarded before their final move. After about an hour of frustrating indecision she uncovered a small, mother-of-pearl encrusted, wooden casket and exhaled a sigh of pleasure at the sight of the long lost treasure. She knew it contained photos and mementos of their two sons growing up.
The photo on top of the pile, however, depicted five female hands resting on a wooden table. Happy memories and sad ones too, flooded her mind as a recalcitrant tear made its way down her face and a hand rose of its own accord to stifle a quiet gasp.
The photo was taken after the funeral for Roz, a member of the team that won the All-Schools Hockey Championship. Within the squad of 16, eight of them, dubbed the Great Eight, formed a special bond. They appeared to have little in common with each other, except for hockey, but they were inseparable: they met between classes; ate lunch together and endlessly practised skills in the schoolyard; outside school they partied together or just hung out in the town’s main street.
They remained in touch after leaving school, but gradually careers, marriage and children took precedence. The photo was taken about a dozen years ago - after Roz’s wake. Roz was the third of their little clique to die young. Patty and Suzie succumbed to cancer, but everything suggested Roz deliberately overdosed on drugs.
BedevilledbylifelonginsecurityRozsought courage in alcohol and drugs. Drugs removed
inhibitions; sobriety brought self-loathing. It was a simple equation.
Roz was tall, slim and athletic; a beautiful vision flying down the wing with the ball seemingly attached to her stick. Her wavy black hair framed a gentle, vulnerable face with sad, but startling blue eyes that evoked instant empathy. Roz saw none of that; she saw a crooked nose and a shapeless boyish physique. She was always aware of her nose even though the perceived flaw was only visible in profile and she could only see it if she deliberately tortured herself by looking sideways into a mirror.
Friends insisted there was nothing wrong with her but added that if she wasn’t comfortable, she should simply do something about it. There’s no stigma attached to plastic surgery, they said, so she should just go for it.
Roz rejected the assurances but their solution merely confirmed what she knew; she was ugly.
Alcohol and drugs decreased her inhibitions but increased her desperate need for flattery from everyone, even strangers. Eventually the Great Eight also avoided her when her playful flirting with bewildered husbands turned toxic. One day Roz simply disappeared and decades passed with no word until her mother called with the sad news.
The friends retired to the pub after the modest wake and reminisced about their glory days while they played their old pub game; reverse ‘paper-scissors-rock’ where the ‘winner’ would buy the next round.
They called time on the game after four attempts failed to knock anyone out. When the laughter –w perhaps forced – subsided, they decided the odds of presenting identical results in four consecutive attempts were so unlikely it must have been Roz telling them it was time to go. They finished on ‘paper’ and snapped the photo to remember the occasion. It was the last time Pip saw, spoke or laughed with any of the Great Eight. It was time, she told herself, to do something about it. Friends shouldn’t just meet at funerals. Frank could finish the packing when he got home.
I’m what was known as a displaced person after WWII and became the first in my family to go to university. I studied to be a teacher but gave up on that when I realised how tough it was. After that I went on to do lots of things I wasn’t trained to do. I’m not sure I did them well, but I had a good time along the way. My wife Natalie and I raised two beautiful children together and they provided us with some wonderful grandchildren to enjoy watching as our hair turns white and they begin to make their own way in the world.
Wes Furyk is this month’s Bellarine Writing Competition winner. (Pictures: Supplied)
Wes Furyk’s winning entry was based around a story of this photograph.
Shiraz vs Syrah, an international masterclass
Enter the Leura Park Estate Barrel Shed for a rare and exclusive wine appreciation experience. An intimate, immersive voyage exploring the world of powerhouse red wine producing regions.
Be guided and inspired by winemakers Darren Burke and Nyall Condon.
Three of the Bellarine’s most exclusive wine labels will be on offer – Leura Park Estate, Yes said the Seal and Jack Rabbit Vineyard. Three acclaimed international Syrah producing regions – France, South Africa and Chile.
JACK RABBIT VINEYARD
• 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
At this exclusive event you will:
• Discern palate nuances of terroir, clones and vintages
• Explore cooper, oak and global influences
• Delight in this inspiring flight across six premium wines
Cost is $75 per person, including wines, curated journey, cheeses and your choice of a Leura Park Estate, Yes said the Seal or Jack Rabbit Vineyard Shiraz to take home (RRP $50). Sunday August 4, 11am to 1pm.
LEURA PARK ESTATE
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
FLYING BRICK CIDER CO
Funky, Fabulous, Fun.
• Landmark Bellarine venue
• Innovative space
• Delicious food
• 100% naturally crafted ciders
• Luxurious grounds & vineyard
• OPEN 7 Days 11am-5pm 1251 Bellarine Hwy, Wallington 03 5250 6577 flyingbrickciderco.com.au
12606701-KG21-23
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
PUZZLES
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
ACROSS
1 Sharp struggle (6)
4 Island group in the Indian Ocean (8)
10 Neighbour of Mexico (9)
11 Japanese dish of balls or rolls of rice with garnish (5)
12 Not difficult (4)
13 Hostile (4)
14 Ancient tongue (5)
16 Corrosion (4)
17 Differ (8)
20 Nullify (8)
22 Scottish loch (4)
25 Gutter (5)
26 Ancient harp (4)
28 Middling (4)
30 Rebuke (5)
31 Journeyed (9)
32 To be mildly concussed (3,5)
33 Moniker (coll) (6)
DOWN
1 Marked with graffiti (6)
2 More thinly scattered (7)
3 Sprawls (4)
5 Detailed examination of the elements or structure of something (8)
6 Annoyed (10)
7 Caller (7)
8 Evidence-based disciplines (8)
9 Sharp tooth (4)
15 Styptic (10)
18 Leads an orchestra (8)
19 Devotee (8)
21 Inspect (7)
23 Played for time (7)
24 Clear river bed (6)
27 Actor, – Reynolds (4)
29 Self-referential (4)
Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.
1 What is red food dye often made from?
2 The novel A Town Called Alice was written by which author?
Escapologist Harry Houdini performed what feat first in Australian history?
Danny McGuire is played by which actor in the film Xanadu? 5 Athena is the Greek goddess of what?
6 What does a campanologist play?
7 How many musicals has Andrew Lloyd Webber (pictured) created?
8 Which country is the leading producer of oranges worldwide?
9 Jules Verne, Victor Hugo and George Sand were all what?
10 A standard grand piano has how many keys?
No. 195 No. 195
FROM THE ARCHIVES
Ocean Grove Voice looks back through the pages of our predecessors
8 years ago
July 20 to August 2, 2016
KingstonEstateresidentsshiveredthrough anuncomfortablycoldnightlastweekafter theirgaswascut.
They were left with no gas heating or hot water as the mercury plummeted to five degrees by 7pm last Tuesday with a wind-chillfactorofaroundminusthree.
6 years ago
August 1 to 14, 2018
Ocean Grove Collendina Cobras Junior Football Club has moved to hose down fears that its future is clouded.
The club responded to a story in the Geelong Advertiser on Friday 27 July, which said the Collendina aspect of the club felt it was being “railroaded out of their involvement with the joint partnership.“
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to notfor-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.
Free men’s barber haircuts
The Gordon East Campus, Building E Foyer, Boundary Road, East Geelong, Tuesday July 30, 10am-2.30pm. (no kids cuts)
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 27, 7.30pm-11pm, $10 includes supper, music Charles.
■ 0400 500 402
Christian Singles
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
CWA Drysdale
Meets Drysdale RSL, Princess Street, Drysdale on the second Tuesday of the month. Meetings start at 1pm followed by afternoon tea. Friendly group looking to recruit new members.
■ Jenni, 0452 258 333
Book club
Leopold CAE book club meets second Tuesday each month from 6.30pm. Very friendly group. New members welcome.
■ Shirley, 0488 055 969
Chess clubs
For chess fun simply come along and see yourself, play some chess, meet some members, with no obligation to join. We welcome players of all abilities. Ocean Grove, Tuesdays at 1.30pm at 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove; Portarlington, Mondays at 9.30am, Parks Hall, 87 Newcombe Street, Portarlington; and St Leonards, Thursdays at 9.30am, unit 2 1375-1377 Murradoc Road, (on Blanche Street), St Leonards.
■ Ralph, 0431 458 100 (Ocean Grove), Rob, 5259 2290 (Portarlington), Lyn, 5292 2162 (St Leonards)
Carpet bowls
4 years ago
July 29 to August 11, 2020
Member for Bellarine Lisa Neville has labelled accusations about a lack of control at checkpoints between Melbourne and the Bellarine Peninsula as “really disappointing”.
Western Victoria MP Bev McArthur said she was “reliably informed” by several workers who are travelling on the Searoad FerriesSorrentotoQueenscliffservice,that theyhavenotbeensubjecttoanychecks.
Monthly
Inhouse Movies 3rd Wednesday 1.30pm.
■ 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.
2 years ago
July 29 to August 11, 2022
Ocean Grove Community Association (OGCA) fears the City of Greater Geelong has “forgotten and shelved” projects included in the Grove Town Centre Urban DesignFramework. The frameworks was adopted in 2015 and incorporated into the Ocean Grove StructurePlan.
Leopold Hall 805-809 Bellarine Highway, Leopold on Wednesday and Friday from 1pm to 3.15pm. Admission: $4 includes afternoon tea.
■ 0400 500 402
Ocean Grove Senior Citizens 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove Weekly
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
■ 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
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
of the month at 6.30pm. Email oceangroveevening.viewclub@gmail.com for details.
■ 0428 546 796
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 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
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
Out and about
Voice photographer Ivan Kemp braved the cold, wet and windy conditions at Steeline Ray Menzies Oval in Ocean Grove on Saturday July 20 to take these photos.
1/ Demi Lucas, Amy Harris, Laura Ritchie, Hannah Quinn and Laura McKay. 2/ Sally Wiltshire and her son Ted. 3/ Jade Bartz and Tracy Wallace with Harper. 4/ Cath Latimer, Shane Connolly and Harvey Stephenson. 5/ Mark Simpson and his daughter Annie. 6/ Steven and Grace Pope. 7/ Lisa Peace, Brodie McGregor and Neil Critch with Winnie. 8/ Luke Souter, Don Barton and Reg Hickey. 9/ Paul Cusma and Dean Casamento. 10/ Dennis and Julie White. 11/ Robert Cramp, Dean Lewis and Mandy Kelly. 12/ Jacalyn Roney, Kerri McMaster, Erica Naughtin, Kate Ingwersen and Cass Redfern. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 420177
SPORTS QUIZ
1. The Boomers will play which three teams in the group stage at the 2024 Olympics?
2. Australian runner Jessica Hull broke the world record for which event?
3. Mixed martial arts event UFC 305 will be held in which Australian state capital?
4. Nigeria-born, New Zealand-based mixed martial artist Israel Adesanya is set to fight which South African at
5. The Opals will play which three teams in the group stage at the 2024 Olympics?
6. Australian basketballer Johnny Furphy signed with which NBA team?
7. Which Formula One driver won the 2024 British Grand Prix?
8. Australian athlete Bradman Best plays which sport professionally?
9. The Utah Hockey Club is set to join the NHL for the 2024–25 season after the demise of which team?
Australian-based athlete Kimia Yousofi will represent Afghanistan in which event at the 2024 Olympics?
Which British motorcycle race is regarded as the world’s most dangerous racing event?
The Southern Thunder and Emeralds are the nicknames for the Australian national teams that play which sport?
Which AFL coach was recently sacked after 11 years in charge at West Coast?
networkclassifieds.com.au
14. The Mission Whitten Oval is the home ground of which AFL Women’s team?
15. How many teams currently compete in the Super Netball competition?
16. Which Australian tennis player made a return at Wimbledon in a Legends’ Invitational Event?
17. Wests Tigers’ star Fonua Pole grew up in which Australian state?
18. Who did Spain defeat in the semifinal of the UEFA Euro 2024 tournament?
19. Macquarie Point Stadium is a proposed sporting stadium to be built in what capital city?
20. What nationality are Formula 1 drivers Oliver Bearman and George Russell?
21. The San Francisco Unicorns are a franchise team in which league, whose first edition was held in 2023?
22. Three-time Supercars champion Scott McLaughlin now competes in which US motor racing series?
23. Which Sydney Swans player was suspended for one week for striking in Round 17, putting him out of contention for the Brownlow Medal?
24. In the Tour de France, which jersey design is given to the rider that gains the most points for reaching mountain summits first?
25. A toxophilite is the formal name for a competitor or expert of which sport?
26. What brand-new nickname was recently adopted by Australia’s rowing teams?
27. Fifty years ago, in 1974, which US tennis player won three of the four grand slams?
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
The
30. In which year did
28. British F1 racer Lewis Hamilton will drive for which famous team in 2025?
29.
late actor and comedian Robin Williams described which sport as like ‘baseball on valium’?
Amsterdam host the Summer Olympic Games?
MOTOR
Pricey, but hot hatch drives well
By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring
Honda’s hot hatch is a car that never seems to lose its appeal.
It’s probably the closest thing we mere mortals will ever get to a Ferrari-like driving experience.
The Type-R goes hard, stops hard and is engineered to thrill, but is not a car that will appeal to everyone.
And at $73K price creep threatens to put it beyond the reach of the very group of drivers at which it is targeted.
Styling
Priced from $73,600 driveway, the Type R has gone up $1000 since we last tested it.
Not a huge increase but that’s on top of the $12,000 or so over the previous model.
That’s a national, haggle-free driveawayprice and as such Honda says no negotiations will be entered into.
There are four colours to choose from: Sonic Grey, Rally Red, Crystal Black and Championship White.
The list of competitors with indicative pricing continues to grow, starting with the Hyundai i30 N at just $46,200.
Thenthere’stheSubaruWRX($47,490),Mini Cooper JCW ($61,050), Renault Megane RS ($63,000), Toyota Corolla GR Sport ($64,190), VW Golf R ($70,590), Audi S3 Quattro ($75,400), BMW M135i xDrive ($76,600) and the Mercedes-AMG A 45 S 4MATIC+ ($119,900).
Missing in action is the fondly-remembered Ford Focus RS which has disappeared along with the rest of the Focus lineup to make way for SUVs and electric vehicles.
At 4606mm new Type-R is 37mm longer, 15mm wider and 13mm lower than the car its predecessor, with a wheelbase that is 35mm longer.
At a kerb weight of 1429kg weight-saving devices include an aluminium bonnet, resin boot lid and smaller wheels which help to reduce unsprung mass by 2.8kg at each corner.
At first sight the latest Type-R looks similar yet different, with seating for four, a good-sized boot and tyre repair kit in lieu of a spare tyre.
A couple of cupholders are built into the centre of the back seat and while it is quite roomy, rear seat passengers could find it somewhat claustrophobic, especially with no air vents.
The front the fascia is similar but different, while the air intake has moved further forward on the bonnet.
The tail lights have been changed to reflect the styling of the latest Civic and while the signature, triple exhaust outlets remain, the rear spoiler is smaller and less impressive.
The black wheels look pretty much the same, but the pinstripe has gone and if you look closely you’ll see they are now 19s instead of 20s, but they wear wider rubber.
Michelin Pilot Sports 265 x 30s are fitted, increasing the car’s footprint and presumably grip.
The brakes are from Brembo, ventilated at front and solid at the rear. The 350mm front discsareequippedwithfour-pistonaluminium callipers. The rears are 305mm in size.
Moving inside, the deep sports buckets are finished in bright vermilion red, with red seatbelts and foot well trim along with other red highlights, including red ambient lighting.
The chunky steering wheel has lost some of its red, but is now trimmed in suede leather.
It needs a 12 o’clock marker to keep track of the wheels, especially on a circuit.
A metal shifter and foot pedals round out the picture.
A touchscreen now perches atop the dash, with a digital display replacing the previous analogue instrument cluster.
Standard equipment includes ‘suede-style’ fabric, two-zone climate air, manual seat adjustment, LED head and tail lights, auto
lights and wipers, auto dimming mirror, front and rear parking sensors, radar cruise control, adaptive suspension and a limited slip front diff.
There’s also a comprehensive data logging system for tracking the car, with expanded capability that displays all sorts of info like cornering G-force.
Civic Type-R is covered by a five-year warranty, five-year roadside assistance and five-year capped price servicing, with free map updates for five years and a five-year subscription to on-line services.
Service is due every 12 months or 10,000km.
Infotainment
A 9.0-inch Advanced Display Audio touchscreen has been designed to minimise driver distraction, with hard buttons and customisable shortcuts for functions used often.
The system features Bluetooth, AM/FM and DAB+ digital radio, satellite navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, wired Android Auto, wireless phone charger, plus 12 volt and 2 x USB-A ports.
Audio comes from an eight-speaker system, butthere’snomentionofabrand,poweroutput or whether it includes a subwoofer.
Safety
The current Civic has still not been tested for safetybyANCAPandthatincludestheTypeR.
The previous five-star rating expired way back in October, 2021.
The safety fit out is extensive, however, with 10 airbags, a 360 degree reverse camera, two child seat anchor points and a body structure that has been optimised for safety.
Honda Sensing includes Blind Spot Monitor, Drive Attention Monitor, Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keep Assist System (LKAS), Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), High Beam Support System (HBSS) and Traffic Sign Recognition System (TSR).
Engines/transmissions
The previous model produced 228kW of power at 6500 rpm and 400Nm of torque from 2500 rpm.
It accelerated from 0-100km/h in 5.7 seconds and uses 8.8L/100km.
Changes to the 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine see an increase to 235kW of power and 420Nm of torque, the latter at a slightly higher 2600 revs.
Thedashfrom0-100km/hhasbeentrimmed to just 5.2 seconds and it uses a fraction more fuel at 8.9L/100km.
The turbocharged engine is paired with a smooth, easy-to-use, quick-shifting six-speed manual transmission with automatic rev-matching.
Driving
Remember the Type R is focused on performance rather than comfort.
But it comes with all the trimmings to make you feel more comfortable with the price.
This includes suede-trimmed sports buckets in an attention-seeking red trim that add to the excitement.
The latest Civic Type-R offers a little more power and torque, but this is the preface to a much longer story.
The body is significantly more rigid, delivering improved dynamics and more refinement.
Topped with a solid aluminium shift knob (freezing in winter), the transmission has been engineered to deliver a crisp change action with very low internal friction.
Drive is to the front wheels through a helical-type limited-slip diff minimises wheel spin, allowing the vehicle to accelerate harder on surfaces with uneven traction.
There are four drive modes as well as adjustable suspension: Comfort, Sport, +R and a new Individual mode.
An active exhaust valve changes the pitch of the engine depending on mode, but needs to be louder.
The digital instrument cluster reflects the drive mode you chose, with a race style look in +R that prioritises revs and the current
gear, with a string of LEDs allowing the driver to time the change up as you near the 7000 redline.
Talk about torque!
In most sports models you spend the time changing from second to third and back again in corner to corner driving, but in the Type-R the zone moves up to third and fourth, even reaching fifth on longer straights.
An upgraded Electric Power Steering (EPS) system delivers pin-sharp steering, with a stiffer torsion bar and improved software control resolution to enhance steering feel and control.
Steering weight is adjustable in settings.
The trick for getting the most comfortable, satisfying result out of the car is to put it in the new Individual mode, tick all the +R settings then switch the suspension to Comfort which stops the car from crashing through potholes.
And here’s the good bit, the car remembers and retains the drive mode settings between starts.
Grip is phenomenal and the car remains remarkably settled over undulations.
Onthedownsidetyrenoiserampsupquickly when moving from smooth to coarse bitumen.
The Brembos are exceptional and will stand the car on its front wheels if asked to.
AllinalltheType-Risafantasticcartodrive. Although premium 95 unleaded is recommended, it will happily take standard unleaded, but probably with a small decrease in power.
Rated at 8.9L/100km, we were getting a conservative 8.0L/100km after almost 660km.
Summing up
The car is great, but the price is a worry. Having said that, there’s plenty of cheaper and more expensive options.
But remember this is the car that holds the lap record for a front-wheel drive vehicle at the Nurburgring,oritwasthelasttimewechecked. TheTypeRisacrackertodrive,justashappy to go shopping or for a blast around the race track. It’s a genuinely thrilling car to drive, even if my wife doesn’t like it (don’t tell her I said that).
Honda’s hot hatch is probably the closest thing we mere mortals will ever get to a Ferrari-like driving experience. (Pictures: Supplied)
Grubbers win by 27
Voice photographer Ivan Kemp saw Ocean Grove’s best victory of the season at Steeline Ray Menzies Oval on Saturday July 20. The Grubbers shocked Geelong Amateur by 27 points.
Ben Bennett was one of Ocean Grove’s best.
Nick Bourke marks low down.
Kirby Reilly is wrapped up in a tackle.
Connor Asquith takes a chest mark.
Left: Ben Bennett runs out of defence. Centre: Tom Gribble breaks clear. Right: Blake Sutterby is brought down in a tackle. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 420176
Brady Pritchard marks under pressure from Liam Cogan.
Tom Zeitz marks and then goals.
Jordan Toll tries to break a tackle.
Tyson Ruck kicks a goal.
Top of the table clash an epic
In a battle of 1st vs 2nd, Geelong Amateur prevailed against Ocean Grove in a terrific game. Voice photographer Ivan Kemp was at Steeline Ray Menzies Oval on Saturday July 20 to take these photos.
Georgia Berry slips in the wet. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 420174
Emily Moroney takes a pass.
Left: Georgia Duncan wins this contest with Anna Smith. Centre: Lulu Shaw provided spark when she came on for Ammos. Right: Georgia Duncan and Darcy McFarlane exchange passes.
Keisha Guilmartin and Emily Moroney were awarded the spirit of netball medals for Mental Health Round by Leisure Networks’ Luke Maher.
Anna Smith tips the ball away from Sharon Ford.
Sharon Ford races into attack.
Rhiannon Whitson intercepts.
Rebecca O’Neill pulls in a one-hander.
Romy Harwood leaps high to take possession.
Cats still in premiership contention: Cameron
Gun forward Jeremy Cameron is adamant Geelong is still in premiership contention despite being brought back to earth by the Western Bulldogs.
The Cats sit sixth after their 47-point defeat at a sodden GMHBA Stadium on Saturday night, when Cameron was kept to one goal and six touches by former GWS teammate Rory Lobb.
“It was obviously a tough game and a frustrating game,” Cameron said ahead of Saturday’s clash with North Melbourne at Blundstone Arena, Hobart.
“For us, we didn’t play anywhere near our best football. I put my hand up first and say it was probably one of the worst games I played, especially for the Cats.
“So there’s plenty of work to be done and we know the competition is so tight, so that’s what’s so disappointing about it.
“Every game’s a must-win at this time of year and we’ve got to step back up and go down to Hobart and beat a Kangaroo outfit that are playing really good football. They’ve been in a lot of games for a long time now and thereabouts. So you’ve got to play your best
footy otherwise you’ll get found out on the night.”
Cameron admitted he’d been left pondering his own form after admitting good friend Lobb had outpointed him regularly.
“I don’t normally stew on my football too much to be honest – I get past it pretty quick, but I thought about it over a couple of days,” he said at a Stadium Golf launch at Marvel Stadium.
“And there was a whole range of different things – probably just my reaction time to be honest was a fair bit off.”
The loss to the Bulldogs, which coach Chris Scott described as “uncharacteristic”, snapped a three-game winning run.
Cameron is confident that his body’s holding up strongly to attack the pointy end of the season.
He believed the likes of gun midfielder Max
Dry conditions welcomed
LOCAL TENNIS
Donna Schoenmaekers
After a week of rain interrupted matches, it was blue skies for the second round of Tennis Geelong’s Tuesday Women’s and everyone enjoyed the dry conditions.
Surfcoast Torquay have started the season wellinSection3,winningbothoftheirmatches and sitting atop the ladder.
The team finished third in the summer season and are looking to improve on that this winter, and this week defeated Highton White in a come from behind win. White took the first three sets 6-4, before Torquay hit their stride winning the final three 7-6, 6-2, 6-1, levelling the match on sets, but ahead by three games.
Barwon Heads, this summer’s runners-up, have also had a good start to the season with two wins over Moolap last week and Clifton Springs this week. There were only two points separating the Heads and Springs last summer and Tuesday’s match showed how closely the teams are matched.
Emma Webb and Tania White opened with a 7-5 win for the Heads and Shelley Sutton and Katie Hedley followed suit in the second, and that was effectively the difference between the teams. The remaining sets were split, the Heads coming out on top four sets to two with a two-game buffer.
After a difficult summer season in Section 2, Highton Gold enjoyed the hit out this week against Moolap, coming away with a 4-2 win. The team had a great start having tough wins
Holmes, Ollie Dempsey and Tanner Bruhn kicking on had reinvigorated the Cats and could help them contend.
“Definitely, that’s the belief,” he said.
“We were really optimistic in the pre-season. It’sprobablyhardtosortofseefromtheoutside butinternally,weknowwhatwecando.Having that whole group of young players, it was a real talking point that we were ageing and whatnot.
“But some of the young guys like an Ollie Dempsey that comes in and just he’s sort of jumped out of nowhere, but internally, we’ve seen that and we’ve seen his development and we know what he can do.
“... There’s a whole range of young exciting guys in there and we had that nice balance back in 2022 as well. So it’s positive and those younger players keep us older ones feeling young.”
Anna Harrington, AAP
Finals venues announced
LarawillhosttheAFLBarwonwomen’s and girls footy grand finals this season.
AFL Barwon will use three ovals at Lara Recreation Reserve for the grand finals on Sunday August 25.
All AFL Barwon clubs were invited to express their interest in hosting, ensuring a diverse and inclusive selection, AFL Barwon said.
The earlier weeks of finals will see Belmont’s Winter Reserve and Victoria Park host week one with North Geelong’s Osborne Park and Mount Moriac Reserve to host the preliminary finals.
The junior grand finals will head to Osborne Park while the first two rounds of the finals will be played across Torquay’s Banyul-Warri Fields and McCartney Oval in week one and both ovals at Hamlyn Park for week two.
The Under 14 and Under 16 games will be spread across Saturdays and Sundays during the finals series.
“AFL Barwon are extremely grateful for the interest competitively expressed by several clubs to host the junior male, junior and senior female football finals in 2024,” AFL Barwon regional general manager Edward Wilson said.
“This finals series will be another showcase of the positive progression thatallclubsandcompetitionsalikeare delivering for all boys and girls playing football within the Barwon region. An immense thank you to all host clubs for their delivery leadership during the upcoming finals series.”
Epworth senior female, Under 19, 16 & 14
Week 1 – Semi-finalsatWinterReserve & Victoria Park, Belmont, Sunday August 11
in the first four sets, before Moolap hit back to take the final two. Gold eventual winners by four games.
Highton Blue had a tough start to the season last week going down to Torquay 6-0, but had a much better week in round 2, when they faced Ocean Grove. The teams were evenly matched throughout the day with only one game separating them going into the last two sets.
From here Blue steeled themselves, winning both sets 6-4, the 4-2 victory spearheaded by Sarah Hall taking her three sets for the day.
With three new teams to the section the players will get good variation from last season and it will take some time to see how things settle, but being the closest grade last summer, itstandstoreasonthatthisseasoncouldbejust as good.
Week 2 – PreliminaryfinalsatOsborne Park, North Geelong, & Mount Moriac Reserve, Sunday August 18
Week 3 – Grand finals at Lara Recreation Reserve, Sunday August 25
Kempe junior finals
Week 1 – Semi-finals at Banyul-Warri Fields and McCartney Oval, Torquay, Saturday August 17 & Sunday August 18
Week 2 – Preliminary finals at Hamlyn Park, Hamlyn Heights, Saturday August 24 & Sunday August 25
Week 3 – GrandfinalsatOsbornePark, North Geelong, Saturday August 31 & Sunday September 1
Jeremy Cameron had his colours lowered by Rory Lobb on Saturday. (AAP Image/Morgan Hancock)
Tuesday Women’s Section 3 Moolap and Highton Blue: Pauline Edmunds, Wendy Bell, Rita Nelis, Erica Sutherland, Shirley Patterson, Liz Worpel, Anna Goli and Louise Mayall. (Supplied)
Dominant Grubbers shock Ammos
By Justin Flynn
On paper it was a mismatch.
Second placed Geelong Amateur, which had defeated Torquay and Barwon Heads in successive weeks, up against ninth placed OceanGrovewithonlytwowinsfortheseason.
But footy games aren’t played out on paper.
A six-goal third term from Grove at Steeline Ray Menzies Oval on Saturday July 20 left Ammos shellshocked and it could not recover.
A more desperate, more skilled, more hard-working Ocean Grove running out winners 12.5(77) to 5.20(50).
Yes, Ammos were awful in front of goal, but credit must go to the home team for the defensive pressure that caused their opponents to rush some of their shots.
“Our defence held up really well when under pressure, particularly in the first half to only concede two goals from 32 forward 50 entries,” OceanGrovecoachDaveFarrellsaid.“Wewere most pleased with the connection the playing group showed across the ground in the second halftostillpushforwardwithsomerealoffence intent and score nine goals in a half of footy.”
Farrell said Grove’s “really disappointing” 75-point loss against Modewarre the week before had the potential to dent his side’s confidence,butitappearedtohavetheopposite effect.
“The resolve internally has been fantastic, the players’ ability to keep finding positives each week and not need to be constantly driven by the coaching group has been unique this season,” he said.
“We have been really clear on our direction and to get this result on the back of them (Ammos) having beaten Barwon Heads and Torquay,fourthandfirst,inthepasttworounds highlights the closeness of the competition and that we can compete with these more mature lists.”
Both sides were not at full strength. The GrubbersweremissingkeybigmenKyeAnnand and Ed Dayman and captain Max Sutton was unavailable with work commitments. Ammos’ notable absentees included Jai Sheahan and Oscar Brownless.
The win lifted the Grubbers to eighth on the ladder. Another winnable game this week against Newcomb looms and then they will
hope to continue the role of party pooper with Drysdale and Anglesea to finish the season.
Playing co-coach Nick Bourke booted four goals in the win and said his side was looking forward to finishing off the season strongly.
“It was great being out on the ground and seeing the belief in the group build across the day,” he said. “We were really disappointed as a playing group with the week before and to
the boys’ credit, we came out and played the four-quarter performance we knew we have been capable of all year.
“Ammosareaqualitysidebutwedidn’twant to go away from what got us in the position we were in and to the boys’ credit they didn’t stop until the final siren and get the result on the back of work rate and effort for the entire day.
“We are excited for another opportunity to play our brand of footy this week and the following couple of weeks to finish the season. I’m so proud of the boys and we are looking forward to continuing to finish the season off strongly.”
It’s not all doom and gloom for Ammos, though. They still sit second on the ladder. The next two weeks will be crucial, with a resurgentDrysdaleandthenAngleseafollowed by Newcomb to round off the home and away season.
GEELONG AMATEUR proved too good in the reserves with a 12.10(82) to 6.8(44) win. Noah Edwards was a class above with six goals in a best on ground performance while Leighton Driscoll and Harry Cashin were good for the Grubbers.
Geelong Amateur wins battle of the best
Geelong Amateur secured the Bellarine Netball League A Grade minor premiership with a pulsatingfive-goalwinagainstOceanGroveona cold,wetandwindySaturdayJuly20.
The much anticipated clash between the comp’s two best teams lived up to expectations withAmmossurvivingathird-quarterchallenge towin55to50atSteelineRayMenziesOval.
After an even first term, Ammos started to take control with star goaler Ruby Watson and the ever brilliant goal attack Darcy McFarlane leadingtheway.
Ammosledbyeightgoalsinthethirdterm,but the Grubbers launched a fightback to lead by two atthefinalbreak.
The introduction of youngster Louise Shaw at wing attack, gave Ammos a boost and they took control of the final term. Ocean Grove, however, showed enough to give it confidence that it can matchitwiththeflagfavouritescomefinalstime.
“We started slowly…our shooting percentage was down which it isn’t normally,” Ocean Grove coachMelHolmessaid.
“Theypresenteduswithabigchallengeandwe knewthatgoingin,butIfeellikewegainedsome experience and learnings from it so we can take that back and look at what we need to work on andcomebackstrongernexttime.
“I’m never happy with a loss, but it gave us enoughtoknowthatwe’vegotmoretogive.We’ll lookatitandanalyseit,butI’mhappywithwhatI sawandwhatweneedtoworkon.”
Holmes moved Mia Smith onto the dangerous McFarlane after half-time and it had an immediateimpact.
“Darcy’s a playmaker so just to have someone different on her to change up the game,” Holmes said. “It was more about let’s just not let her get comfortable.”
Georgia Berry did all she could on Watson, who scored 44 goals from 48 attempts, while Jess LeaderwassuperbusyinmidcourtandRhiannon Whitsonwassolidindefence.
Holmes said Zanna Woods will return from injury this week or next and that fitting her into thesidewas“agoodproblemtohave”.
“We’re really looking forward to having her back,” she said. “She’ll add another dimension that a lot of teams haven’t really seen. I mean they’veseenabitandtheyknowher,butshe’lladd anotherdimensiontoourgame.”
The Grubbers face another test against a hugely improved Newcomb in their final home of the season before travelling to bottom placed Drysdaleandthensixth-placedAnglesea.
Justin Flynn
Round 15
A GRADE
Ocean Grove 50 def by Geelong Amateur 55. Best: Ocean Grove - Jessica Leader, Rhiannon Whitson, Georgia Berry. Geelong Amateur - Ruby Watson, Romy Harwood, Sharon Ford.
Barwon Heads 40 def Portarlington 32. Best: Barwon Heads - Racquel Scott, Chelsea Baker, Ebony Evans. Portarlington - Laura Robinson, Klara Wilkinson, Lauren Wood.
Anglesea 48 def Newcomb 47. Best: Anglesea - Jessica Croker, Tae McGillivray, Breda O’Kane. Newcomb - not supplied.
Torquay 45 def Modewarre 27. Best: Torquay - Sarah Butler, Lauren Berridge, Rhian Moresi. Modewarre - Monique Sefton, Laney Mcfadyen, Sarah Rogers.
Queenscliff 66 def Drysdale 44. Best: Queenscliff - Shaiden Smith, Sarah Langley, Kaitlin Gladman. Drysdale - not supplied.
B GRADE
Ocean Grove 38 def by Geelong Amateur 44. Best: Ocean Grove - Shelby Hackett, Imogen Bennett, Jesse Sutton. Geelong Amateur - Julia Twigg, Lauren Lapsley, Jessie Allen.
C GRADE
Ocean Grove 28 def Geelong Amateur 24. Best: Ocean Grove - Sofia Dickeson, Maddy Goodger, Amelia Hallam. Geelong Amateur - Pippa Bullen, Holly Ellison, Sophie Mallett.
D GRADE
Ocean Grove 40 def Geelong Amateur 24. Best: Ocean Grove - Tarryn Stanley, Tina Birch, Paula Birch. Geelong Amateur - not supplied.
E GRADE
Ocean Grove 34 def Geelong Amateur 25. Best: Ocean Grove - Taryn Laverty, Keely Boswell, Ruby Hildebrandt. Geelong Amateur - Sophie Leach, Erin Steele, Tarni Levick.
19 & UNDER
Ocean Grove 11 def by Geelong Amateur
33. No best supplied.
17 & UNDER DIVISION 1
Ocean Grove 33 def Geelong Amateur 17. Best: Ocean Grove - Mikala Martin, Emma Barry, Ella Brown. Geelong Amateur - Eva Chalmers, Emily Totton, Charli German.
17 & UNDER DIVISION 2
Ocean Grove 15 def by Geelong Amateur
20. Best: Ocean Grove - Liv Richardson,
Eve Lake, Olivia Grogan. Geelong Amateur - Lucy Rookes, Holly Clifford, Zoe Naughtin.
15 & UNDER DIVISION 1
Ocean Grove 13 def by Geelong Amateur
27. Best: Ocean Grove - Airlie Bennett, Charli Burke, Tamika Wall. Geelong Amateur - Caitlin Totton, Sasha Naughtin, Ginny Brough.
15 & UNDER DIVISION 2
Ocean Grove 15 def by Geelong Amateur
18. Best: Ocean Grove - Crystal Wright, Ashley Sutherland, Grace van Maasdyk. Geelong Amateur - Indianna Jaramillo, Grace Jarman, Jorja Pratt.
13 & UNDER DIVISION 1
Ocean Grove 13 def by Geelong Amateur
24. Best: Ocean Grove - Kiara Dean, Iluka O’Loughlin, Alana Farrow. Geelong Amateur - Kitty Brough, Ava Fitzclarence, Eva Hammond.
13 & UNDER DIVISION 2
Ocean Grove 13 def by Geelong Amateur
18. Best: Ocean Grove - Olive Wearmouth, Matilda Dalton. Geelong Amateur - Matilda Jane, Olive Logan, Maive McMaster.
Above: Ocean Grove coach Mel Holmes talks with Arlee Bennett during the game against Geelong Amateur. Left: Ruby Watson and Georgia Berry had absorbing tussle. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 420174
Kirby Reilly marks strongly and was one of the Grubbers’ best. (Ivan Kemp) 420176_24
August Event
RCA Villages is excited to invite you to Elvis Forever with Damian Mullin; an award-winning Elvis Presley Tribute Artist whose action-packed show entertains audiences from around the world.
Damian’s sound and style along with his infectious personality is indeed a testament to his ongoing commitment and passion to transforming any stage into yesteryear.
Finger food and refreshments will be provided at this matinee event. We look forward to seeing you there!
Reservations essential.
Date: Thursday August 8, 2024
Venue: Armstrong Green Clubhouse 722-742 Barwon Heads Road Geelong Victoria 3217 ·
RSVP: August 1, 2024
By calling the sales team to reserve your place on 1800 777 898
Limited Places. No admission without pre-registration. Don’t miss out.
