Ocean Grove Voice - 6th September 2024

Players court history

By Justin Flynn

Ocean Grove A Grade coach Mel Holmes will behopingthathersidecanemulatelastseason’s Bellarine Netball League heroics and defeat an unbeaten Geelong Amateur in this Saturday’s grand final.

In a stunning performance last September, Ocean Grove put together its best four quarters of netball for the 2024 season to upset the unbeaten flag favourites.

The scenario is remarkably similar this time around.

“It’s not going to be easy, but the girls are up forthechallenge,”first-yearcoachHolmessaid.

“I think for us it’s limiting our errors. In those big games, making errors can really cost you so for us it’s not crumbling to that pressure and making good decisions.

“I think we’ve got the skills to do it, it’s just if we make errors, they (Geelong Amateur) can capitalise.”

The Grubbers bounced back from their second semi-defeat to easily account for Torquay in the preliminary final.

“We knew that last week we learned a few lessons and I think we kind of went back to the drawing board and went back to what we need to do well,” Holmes said.

“There was pressure on, but there were no nerves. They knew what they needed to get done and I thought they did it really well.”

Holmes agreed that 10 other clubs in the league would give anything to be in Ocean Grove’s and Geelong Amateur’s shoes this week.

The Grubbers have plenty of new faces on the court this season.

“It (making a grand final) is not easy to do,” she said.

“It’s not the same team. So the fact that we’ve been able to get it done and get there and then have a chance is amazing. So the girls are really, really excited.”

Geelong Amateur coach Mel Savage said her group had not spoken about last year’s result.

“I’m a big believer in ‘don’t look in the past, look to the future’,” she said.

 Continued: Page 2.

It’s grand final time in the Bellarine Football Netball league and the captains got together on Monday. Pictured are Anglesea’s James Carr, Torquay’s James Darke, Geelong Amateur’s Keisha Guilmartin and Ocean Grove’s Emily Moroney. (Ivan Kemp) 428651_16

Destructive winds shake region

By Jena Carr

It was a busy night for first responders as wind gusts of close to 100km/h hit the Geelong and Barwon South West region on Monday.

VICSES crews in the Barwon South West region received more than 550 requests for assistance (RFAs) between 7pm on Sunday, September1,andnoononMonday,September 2. A spokesperson told the Voice that the RFAs featured close to 400 cases of fallen trees and 160 incidents of building damage due to the strong winds overnight.

Surf Coast Shire Council operations manager Travis Nelson said staff had responded to 95 calls for fallen trees and branches across the shire since Wednesday, August 28.

“With such a high volume of requests coming through, the priority is to ensure the safety of the public by clearing the fallen trees/ branches from the road or footpath,” he said.

“Our ‘On Call’ officer received three calls for fallen trees on Saturday and only one on Sunday, but...after the gale force winds experienced overnight (on Monday), we received another 37 calls.”

In a press conference, Victorian Emergency Management commissioner Rick Nugent said damaging and locally destructive winds hit the state from 1am to 4am on Monday.

“An enormous amount of preparation readiness was put in place over the weekend in preparation for last night’s extreme weather event,” he said.

“Many of our volunteers and emergency service workers missed out on spending Father’s Day with loved ones, so I really thank them for their commitment, effort, and professionalism.

“It is clear to us that community did listen

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Inspired resilience goes on show

A brand new exhibition by multi-award winning artist Jo Reitze is now on show at Hat Rock Contemporary.

Focused on two well-known cypress trees near the Ocean Grove beach car park, Reitze’s exhibition Resilience consists of 35 works in oils, gouache and pen.

While some of the works have been featured at The Hive Gallery during the Bellarine Arts Trail, this is the first time the series has been exhibited as a whole.

Reitze said it was “just wonderful” to be able to present Resilience at Hat Rock Contemporary.

“I’ve been looking for somewhere to show

them for the last two years… and this space is absolutely perfect,” she said.

“(It’s a) really stylish gallery space, it’s got white walls and a black ceiling and all my framed works have got black frames. It’s just my paintings and the walls, and it looks really good.”

Reitze,wholivesinSurreyHillsbutregularly visits and paints in Ocean Grove, created the worksduringlockdownwhenshewas“stuckin Melbourne”.

“Aftertheinitialshockofourworldchanging, I soon resolved that this would be my time to paint,” she said.

“We can learn much from these macrocarpa

cypresses that bent to survive gales and harsh conditions.

“Their pertinence, during prolonged COVID lockdowns in Melbourne, was acute. Their resilience would inspire my resilience.

“Lockdown has been the only period in my life that I have had uninterrupted time to paint. While others struggled, I felt blessed to be an artist with much to motivate and nourish me.”

The official opening celebration for Resilience is open to the public and will be held at 5pm on Saturday, September 7 at Hat Rock Contemporary.

Matt Hewson

to messages over the past couple of days, they did head these messages, they took action, and many people weren’t on the roads at the high-risk period.”

VICSES Geelong and Barwon South West volunteers attended more than 1100 RFAs since 2pm on Tuesday, August 27, with close to 800 reports of trees down and 300 for building damage.

The South Barwon (138) and Corio (116) units have responded to more than 100 RFAs, with VICSES encouraging people to monitor the current weather situation at emergency. vic.gov.au/respond

Spring into an asthma

plan

Ambulance Victoria (AV) paramedics encourage the Geelong and Barwon South West communities to update their asthma plans during National Asthma Week.

National Asthma Week runs from September 1 to 7 and marks the start of spring, which can trigger people living with asthma and lead to serious health concerns if left unmanaged.

An AV spokesperson told the Independent that Barwon South West region paramedics responded to more than 190 asthma-related cases from September 2, 2023, to August 30, 2024.

AV Emergency Management director Justin Dunlop said around one in nine Victorians live with asthma and that it can affect people of all ages.

“The conditions will change quickly in the coming weeks, so we want everyone with asthma to be ready with a plan,” he said. “By taking preventative action and taking asthma seriously, you’re making a real difference for our busy paramedics who are facing high demand.

“Everyone’s asthma action plan will look different, and it will help you manage your condition, ensuring you don’t find yourself in an emergency.”

Asthma Australia’s Health Knowledge and Translation director Anthony Flynn said asthma action plans should be updated yearly for adults and every six months for children.

“It sets out your important asthma information in a way that is easy to follow and is a valuable reminder of what to do in case your asthma gets out of control,” he said. “Following your plan and having regular reviews with your doctor can result in fewer days off from school or work, reduced emergency visits to hospital and less use of reliever medication.”

If someone has difficulty breathing and their reliever medicine is not working, people should call Triple Zero (000) immediately.

Jena Carr

Players court history as grand final showdowns

 From page 1.

“We don’t have an identical lineup (to last season). We have a very different lineup. So we’re looking to the future and there’s no point looking back. We can’t wait. We are really, really excited about the challenge ahead.” Ammos have won all three encounters against the Grubbers this season by 17 goals in round 6, by five in round 15 and by five in the second semi-final.

Savage watched Grove’s preliminary final win against Torquay, but said at this time of year it was always unlikely she would learn anything new about her opponents.

“We’ll just focus on what we do,” she said.

“I think their lineup is pretty settled. We didn’t learn anything new that we didn’t (already) know throughout the season.”

Savage said the battle between prolific goalshooter Ruby Watson and star goalkeeper Georgia Berry will be worth watching.

“That’s always a good match-up,” she said.

“As a defender (Berry) matches her (Watson) obviously with her height, but also with physicality. So that would be a really great match-up and probably the other one for me is in the centre.

“The two Georgias - Georgia Duncan and Georgia Ryan - I’m really looking forward to their contest. Obviously I’ve coached Georgia Ryan and I know the type of player she is. If we can get the upper hand in the midcourt, I’m really confident of what we can do. It will be a great challenge.

loom

“As a squad, there is just this real strong belief in our own ability and the process. (We’re) focusing purely on ourselves and what we’re doing and that has been a big focus all season. We’ll control the controllables.” See page 31 for what Torquay coach Dom Gleeson and Anglesea coach Jordan Keras had to say about their teams’ senior footy grand final and Ocean Grove skipper Emily Moroney’s and Geelong Amateur skipper Keisha Guilmartin’s thoughts on the A Grade netball decider.

Artist Jo Reitze. (Ivan Kemp)

Jam-packed QLF is on the horizon

This year’s Queenscliffe Literary Festival will take place from October 18 to 27 with a packed program of more than 70 authors.

In a coup for regional Victorian writers’ festivals, best-selling author Tim Winton, named by the Australian National Trust as a Living Treasure, will appear in person for a special event, as well as dual Miles Franklin Literary Award winner Alexis Wright. Celebratingthefestival’s10-yearanniversary, festival director Elizabeth McCarthy said the festival has been a “trailblazing coastalliterary-festival-that-could”.

“What a milestone! The festival was founded on a deep passion for books, ideas and conversations, and today that passion burns brighter than ever. I hope that everyone finds plenty in this program of events to enjoy, chew over, be challenged and inspired by.

“As a life-long passionate reader I’ve long cherished how literary festivals take the introverted experience of reading and make it a community experience. Individuals can meet together and explore, interrogate and celebrate stories and ideas. Our 10th birthday program is a rich feast that I hope will stimulate many

ideasandconversationsacrossourcommunity, long after the festival winds down.

“For 10 years, festival goers have come from across regional Victoria and Melbourne to enjoy a weekend away on the coast, or a visit with book clubs, and our local community have always been thrilled by the literary world coming to our doorstep.”

Queenscliffe Literary Festival will present panels and discussions around challenging national myths, the real victims of so-called cancel culture, politics, climate, threats to free speech, memoir writing, historical fiction,

mental health, humour, adventure, activism, sport, news cycles, culinary feasts and publishing insights.

Festival goers will

many

Smiles as a dream house opens in Ocean Grove

A new home in Ocean Grove for people living with disability was unveiled this week and the keys handed over to eager residents.

The purpose-built home was made possible by genU and Lions Club of Ocean Grove Barwon Heads and at the official opening on Tuesday August 27, residents were excited to step inside for the first time.

Chair of the Joint Standing Committee on the National Disability Insurance Scheme and Member for Corangamite Libby Coker joined residents, family, Lions C and genU staff to celebrate the opening and take a tour.

Seachange Quilters generously handmade and donated quilts to all new residents.

genU Director of Residential Services Jason Flemingsaidresidentswouldgainmanybenefits from the new premises. “A purpose-built disability home like this empowers its residents to live with independence in their local community, allowing support, tailored according to their needs, to be delivered in their own home,” he said.

Mr Fleming said residents provided input during the design phase, which has been built to meet Class Three High Physical Support standards. The home boasts four separate bedrooms, all with ensuites, common area living areas, kitchen, laundry and storage, with an additional second living area to cater for family visits. Another important feature is the overnight onsite accommodation and office for a support worker, which allows 24/7 supported independent living for the residents.

Andrew Brideson has called Ocean Grove home for 15 years and was excited to move into his new house.

During construction, he was keeping more of an ear than an eye on the works, describing the “loud noise” of the jack hammering as telling him the builders were busy. He liked what he saw, giving the home a thumbs up and it looked “new and nice”. Andrew is also happy that he will still be within walking distance of one of his favourite local spots, the Olive Pit, where he strolls most days for a cappuccino or hot chocolate.

Lions Club of Ocean Grove Barwon Heads president Bob Marmion said the club, which hasa30-plusyearhistoryofensuringaffordable accommodation is available in the community, was delighted to be involved in the project. Dr Marmion said the Lions Club welcomed the opportunity to partner with genU, which had a strong commitment to investing back into the same communities in which their services are delivered.

“Our financial contribution to the project would not have been possible without the support of the Corless Family who donated

land that we used to build on,” he said.

“This in turn allowed the Barwon Grove Foundation, led by Lions Bill Willocks, Howard Deane and John Brady to raise the funds for community housing. When we saw the success of genU’s Tara’s Dream project, we decided that genU was the best vehicle to see our plans come to fruition.”

In 1991 the Lions Club initiated the development of community housing in Barwon Heads, in a Victorian Department of Housing partnership to construct eight units for low-cost accommodation for those

in need. Through the donation of a block of land in Kingston Estate by the estate’s developer in 2011, the club built two units to sell to raise funds. The project was a financial success, but identified the need for charity-taxation status to ensure future activities were sustainable.

“The Barwon Grove Foundation was established and set about continuing its work, purchasing a block of land in Kingston Estate to build two more homes, from which the $600,000 in sale proceeds went towards this latest project,” Dr Marmion said.

hear from Tim Winton, Alexis Wright, Pip Williams, Candice Fox, Bruce Pascoe, Christian White, Rick Morton, Tony Birch, Louise Milligan, Nardi Simpson, Sara M. Saleh, Thomas Mayo, Josh Bornstein, Clare Wright, Ben Shewry, Rosie Batty, Judith Lucy, Kaz Cooke, Jeff Sparrow, Hana Assafiri and

more.

Above: Howard Dean, Win Corless and Claire Amies cut the ribbon to open the house. Top right: Lyn Jenkins, Cynthia Potter and Margaret Bedogni show one of the Seachange Quiters donated quilts to Libby Coker MP. Centre right: Patricia Brideson accepts the key and quilt on behalf of her son Andrew with Dr Bob Marmion and Lyn Jenkins. Right: Ian Minns accepts a key and quilt on behalf of his brother John. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 427024

Big boost to health and wellbeing

By Matt Hewson

The state government unveiled two major health and wellbeing projects in Geelong this week.

Wednesday marked the official opening of both the the new, state-of-the-art children’s emergency department at University Hospital and Central Geelong Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub on Moorabool Street.

Victorian Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas visited University Hospital to officially open the children’s emergency department on Wednesday morning, where she was joined by local members Christine Couzens, Ella George

and Alison Marchant to tour the facilities and meet staff.

The emergency department includes 28 new beds, with two fast-track and eight short-stay beds as well as support spaces for children and their families. Importantly, the children’s emergency department is completely separate from the general ED, which can often be a chaotic and noise-filled area.

The $20 million facility was delivered by the Victorian Health Building Authority in partnership with Barwon Health and builder Kane Constructions, creating about 60 jobs.

Ms Thomas said the project was critical for children and families across Geelong and the

surrounding region.

“What we have here with the Children’s Emergency Department is a specially designed facility, one that will help children feel more at ease, will help their families feel calmer and be able to deliver the very best information to the clinicians about the concerns that they have for their child’s health,” she said.

“It’s really important that an environment is created where the children themselves and their families feel that they have the time and a place where they can talk to clinicians about all of their concerns.”

Later in the day, Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt officially opened Geelong’s

Artists get creative for local school

The Bellarine and Surf Coast arts community has come together to support a Barwon Heads school.

Barwon Heads Primary School’s 2024 Art Show features a selection of donated works from a range of artists from Barwon Heads, Ocean Grove, Point Lonsdale and Torquay.

Themed around the beauty, power and serenity of the ocean and nature, the artworks are being auctioned to raise money for the school.

TheonlineauctionisalreadyliveonGalaBid, with the public able to view and bid on items until Friday, September 13.

Exhibition organiser Fran Derham said the donated works celebrated the culture and lifestyle of Barwon Heads.

“We’re so lucky to have such talented, generous artists in our community who are willing to donate their work and support the school,” Ms Derham said.

“It’s a great opportunity to add to your art collection and celebrate our local artists while making a meaningful impact in our school community.”

BHPS principal Rob Bennetts said all proceeds from the event would go towards strengthening the school’s art programs.

“We’re thrilled to bring together such a talented group of local artists and art enthusiasts to support our school,” Mr Bennetts said.

The entire exhibition can be viewed online at app.galabid.com/bhpsartshow/items or at Barwon Heads Primary School gym on September 12 and 13 from 3pm to 4.30pm. Contact Fran Derham at fran.derham@ icloud.com or on 0402257323 for more informationabouttheartworksandexhibition.

new four-storey Mental Health Hub in the heart of Geelong’s CBD. Intended to deliver wraparound treatment, care and support, the $18 million hub provides access to a range of services including assessment, treatments and therapies, care planning and coordination, education, peer support and self-help.

The hub is also the new home of the Greater Geelong and Queenscliffe Mental Health and Wellbeing Local.

Part of a network of 15 Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals across the state, the free service provides care and treatment for adults experiencing mental illness or psychological distress.

If you enjoy seafood or fishing or both, the Hooked on Bellarine Festival is headed to Portarlington next month.

Minister for Outdoor Recreation Steve Dimopoulos this week announced that the free annual event will take place on the Portarlington foreshore on Sunday October 13 with angling club volunteers and Fishcare offering fishing lessons for youngsters through ‘come and try’ VicFishKids sessions. Rods and bait will be provided to make it easy for newcomers to reel in a new hobby.

Women in Recreational Fishing and Boating Network leaders will demonstrate knot-tying techniques and share tips to help anglers improve their catch rates for popular Bellarine species such as King George whiting, calamari, snapper, and gummy shark.

Expert filleting demonstrations will teach participants how to turn their catch into a delicious meal, with cooking presentations and seafood recipes giving real life inspiration to home chefs.

“I’m delighted that Portarlington is hosting the Hooked on Bellarine Festival which is bringing our community together, supporting the next generation of anglers, and showcasing our famous blue mussels to visitors and locals alike,” Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant said.

Other event attractions include food stalls, educational talks, trailer reversinglessons,kidsactivities,afishing simulator, animal experiences with reptiles and native species, food and live music by local artists.

Sophia Legoe is one of the local artists donating her work to the Barwon Heads Primary School Art Show. (Ivan Kemp) 429686_04

NBAC design contract awarded

By Matt Hewson

ProgressontheNorthBellarineAquaticCentre (NBAC) has moved forward with Geelong council awarding the tender to design the second stage of the project at Tuesday night’s meeting.

Williams Ross Architects have been awarded the design contract for the $40.3 million expansion of the centre, which will add a fully functional indoor aquatic centre to the existing 50-metre heated outdoor pool.

Geelongcouncilapprovedtheconceptdesign of stage two chosen by a community advisory

panel last July, which includes an eight lane 25-metre pool, warm water pool, health and wellness facilities, cafe and a changing places changeroom.

Construction of stage two is expected to begin late 2025 and be completed by mid to late 2027.

Geelong mayor and Bellarine Ward councillorTrentSullivan,whohasbeenastrong advocate for NBAC, said it was “fantastic” to see the design tender awarded and the project progress.

“This is and always has been intended to be a complete aquatic centre; not just a ‘stage

Saints net new facilities

Bellarine Peninsula Cricket Association club St Leonards will tackle the new season with improved practice facilities at Len Trewin Reserve.

The new facility features three synthetic lanes built to modern standards, providing a safe and high quality environment for players to develop their skills.

It was officially opened by Mayor Trent SullivanandStateMemberforBellarineAlison Marchant, alongside St Leonards CC secretary Jaymie Crook, vice-president Gary Egan, club members, and Bellarine Ward councillors Elise Wilkinson and Jim Mason.

The $450,000 project was jointly funded by the City of Greater Geelong ($350,000) and the Victorian government ($100,000).

MayorSullivansaidthenewnetswouldallow the club to expand its junior and successful women’s cricket programs, as well as being a better place for its men’s teams to train.

“The Saints have done a great job supporting junior cricket and establishing two women’s teams, but there’s no doubt the old training facilities at this reserve were a barrier,” Mayor Sullivan said.

“The new nets are safer and will be much more appealing for anyone looking to get involvedintheclub.Wewerepleasedtopartner with the Victorian government in this project and we’re rapt for the Saints’ committee, which has put a lot of effort into seeing the new nets become a reality.

“The summer of cricket is just around the corner, but the love of the game never stops, that’s why we’re making sure more people can practiceallyearroundhereatStLeonardsLake Reserve,” Ms Marchant said.

“This dedicated training space is a big win for the community providing an area where fans of the game can hone their batting and bowling skills close to home.”

one’, but… something that suits the needs of all members of our community,” Mayor Sullivan said. “It’s just great to see progress is being made and the job is getting done. We’re getting on with it and I can’t wait for it to be delivered.”

Stage two of the centre is being funded by $20 million from both the Australian and Victorian governments, with the council providing $300,000.

Member for Corangamite Libby Coker said theannouncementbroughttheprojectonestep closer to becoming a reality.

“It builds on the Federal Government’s investment in the outdoor pool and will

leave an amazing legacy for the people of the Bellarine; it’s an awesome result, driven by the community,” Ms Coker said. “I look forward to continuing to work with the state government, and council to ensure this development meets community needs and expectations.”

Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant said the expansion would be a major boost for the community. “The North Bellarine Aquatic Centre has been very popular within our local community so far, progressing the design process brings us one step closer to delivering an even bigger and better facility the community can be proud of,” she said.

POWERING VICTORIAFOR VICTORIANS

Mayor Trent Sullivan, councillors Elise Wilkinson and Jim Mason and Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant, join St Leonards CC vice-president Gary Egan, secretary Jaymie Crook and club members in celebrating the official opening of new facilities. (Supplied)

Leopold couple’s ‘emotional’ win

A Leopold couple is planning to buy their dream beach house following a $2.5 million TattsLotto win.

The couple held one of the eight division one winning entries in the national TattsLotto draw 4499 on Saturday, August 31.

The winning wife said the couple was “so grateful for this win” and lived a “very lucky life” but still felt “a bit weird” about the win.

“We haven’t had time to celebrate because

we’ve been so busy, but don’t get me wrong, it’s on the cards,” she said.

“I only thought we had four of the winning numbers on our ticket, but when I scanned it, it came up with all six, and I couldn’t believe it.

“I’ve been rather emotional over the win actually. We’ve always talked about owning a beach house. It’s been a dream of ours, and now we’ll be able to achieve this dream.”

Cycling icon to lead ride

Bicycle Network has announced Australian cycling icon Simon Gerrans will act as event ambassador for the annual Around the Bay bike ride.

Gerrans,amultipleGrandTourstagewinner, Tour de France commentator and owner of Geelong bike store Hendry’s, will lead out an expected 10,000 cyclists for the 135km Geelong to Albert Park ride on Sunday, October 6.

Hendry’s will provide mechanical and rider support for the event and also conduct two free local training rides in September.

Gerrans, who is in the process of moving to Geelong, said he was excited to serve as ambassador for the ride’s 30th anniversary event.

“BicycleNetworkandUnitedEnergyAround the Bay aligns closely to Hendry’s values of fostering a supportive and inclusive cycling community,” he said.

“I hope plenty of Geelong locals join me on the ride. Hendry’s will provide mechanical support and assist riders as they pass through the Geelong and Queenscliff stopovers.” The event includes six ride options, ranging

from the Family Ride around Albert Park to the 300km loop for seasoned riders.

The 135km ride, which Gerrans will lead out, begins at Geelong Waterfront before taking the Queenscliff ferry to Sorrento and riding through to Melbourne.

Bicycle Network is a not-for-profit organisation focused on getting more people riding bikes more often, both for their health and the wellbeing of the environment.

With nearly 50,000 members around the country, Bicycle Network runs cycling events and programs, supports riders and advocates for bike riding.

Around the Bay also serves as a fundraiser, with Maddie Riewoldt’s Vision this year’s charity partner.

Visit bicyclenetwork.com.au for more information on Around the Bay or hendrys. com.au for information on the free training rides.

ThewinningentrywaspurchasedatLeopold News & Lotto, with owner Peter Russell said it was the newsagency’s first division one win since he and his team took over ownership more than 12 years ago.

“We will be letting all of our customers know about the division one win and we know they’ll be over the moon to hear their local outlet had sold a winning ticket worth $2.5 million,” he said.

“It’s super exciting! We’re a community outlet, and most of the customers who visit us are locals. It means that someone out there in our community is celebrating a wonderful win.

“On behalf of the entire Leopold News & Lotto team, we would like to wish our newly-minted multi-millionaires all the best with their prize and thank them for supporting their local newsagency.”

Geelong businesswomen helped by scholarships

Women from Greater Geelong and the Bellarine will be able to learn how to set up, establish and build sustainable businesses thanks to a scholarship program.

Five women starting a new business and five looking to grow an existing business were awarded Business Accelerator scholarships with Business in Heels, sponsored by the City of Greater Geelong.

DarlingPeaGardenCare’sMarieWalkersaid “it was very surreal” to receive the scholarship and that she looked forward to enhancing her business knowledge.

“Starting out a small business is quite daunting, and you’ve often got all your eggs in one basket,” she said.

“I have the skillset where I can communicate with people and do a range of tasks, but the scholarship will help me safely have a business.

“There’salotofstuffyoudon’tseewhenyou’re starting a small business and it’s important to understand what marketing really means and then how to action it.”

The scholarship recipients included wedding photographer Hannah Lawicki (née Millerick), clinical nutritionist Quill Howard, wellness consultant Octavia Chabrier, and Waste Free Events’ Jess Hobbs.

Complete K9 Training’s Elly Mirkovic, Digi Media Hive’s Laura Heywood, Pink Ocean Virtual Solutions’ Mariana Gaona Lopez, Sensitive Support Services’ Sam Searle, and

Enjoy the Moment Pop Up Picnics’ Maria Prusac were also awarded the scholarship. Business in Heels chief executive Lisa Sweeney said the scholarship winners would participate in a 12-month course to help refine a target market, promotion or pricing model to become more profitable.

“We will support these women by arming them with critical business knowledge to build a profitable business with staying power,” she said. “The comprehensive Business Accelerator program includes lessons, workshops and mentoringdesignedtosetthesebusinesswomen up for success.”

Jena Carr

City of Greater Geelong Mayor Trent Sullivan with Elly Mirkovic, Marie Walker, Octavia Chabrier, Laura Heywood, Business in Heels’ Lisa Sweeney, Jess Hobbs, Mariana Gaona Lopez, Hannah Lawicki (née Millerick) and Business in Heels’ Emma Carter. (Supplied)

Simon Gerrans is ambassador for Bicycle Network’s 30th annual Around the Bay bike ride and fundraiser. (Supplied)

Connection key to happy families

Andy McNeilly is working on his third book and has the job of his dreams. Justin Flynn spoke with the Ocean Grover about work, life and past, present and future projects.

If you are a parent and are reading this, how much time do you spend with your kids?

Not just being in the same room or house, but how much actual time?

If the answer is ‘not enough’ then Ocean Grove author Andy McNeilly’s books might be useful.

Five years ago the Ocean Grove Primary School Mental Health & Wellbeing Leader published Connecting with Your Kids and then last year released Connecting with Your Teens.

The tomes have been acclaimed as an essential tool for parents wanting to be more involved in their childrens’ lives.

“I noticed probably five years ago that schools were really doing a great job of teaching all the academic stuff, but weren’t really up to speed with the social, emotional learning and the well-being,” Andy says.

‘‘ Like adults, kids will make mistakes. But if you punish them, there’s no learning ’’ - Andy McNeilly

“Schools are really good at it now, but at the time there was a big gap. I wanted to give parents some skills and tools to be able to help their kids as well learn those executive skills, like being more resilient, learning to manage emotions, learning about gratitude and empathy about being kind.”

As Andy’s own kids turned into teenagers, it was natural to write another book about connecting with your young adults.

“As my kids became teenagers it became necessary to have more teenage-focused themes in the book,” he says.

“So it has a lot of similar executive skills, but they’re more age appropriate. I’ve listened to a lot of podcasts and a lot of so-called experts, and they talk about quality time and I don’t know if there’s any kid who would grow up and say ‘oh I have really good quality time with my parents’.

“They’re not interested in quality, they’re interested in quantity. They don’t care what you’re doing, whether it’s fishing or whether you’re sitting down with them watching TV, or whether you’re just eating dinner, it doesn’t matter. They want to spend time with you.”

Putting away the iPad and turning off the TV for a small amount of time each night can make an enormous impact in bringing

families closer together, Andy says.

The aim of both books is to build ‘life skills’ that kids need to thrive, through fun programs that give parents the tools they need to connect with their children. The emphasis is firmly on ‘fun’.

“As soon as you make it serious, the kids just go ‘I don’t want to do it’,” Andy says.

“Ifyou’replayingagameordoinganactivity they’ll want to do it more. I don’t know about you, but I’m not looking around my life now asking ‘where can I do some boring stuff? I’m really after some unengaging, boring stuff’. I

want to do stuff that I enjoy, fun stuff.”

Four years ago Andy was a primary school teacher, but an opportunity came up that was perfect for him. That’s when he became Mental Health & Wellbeing Leader at OGPS.

“It was a pilot program in Victoria and because of the high incidence on the Bellarine Peninsula of mental health concerns in our adolescents,” he says.

“The pilot program was brought to another 20-odd schools around our region and it was to try and help those kids develop resilience in primary school before they get to high school

to get them more equipped to deal with these issues that they’re facing.

“Then I applied for the job. I was in the classroom. And because I had such a passion for well-being and social, emotional learning, I was like ‘I’m blessed, this job is made for me’.”

“I love my job. It ties into this job, ties into all the other things I do outside of schoolmy writing and speaking conferences and workshops.”

Even though Andy’s three kids are grown up, he says putting in the work early on will pay dividends later on when they are teens.

“We’ll ask them if they want to go camping and they’re like ‘yeah, let’s go’ and because we went camping when they were younger, they still wanted to do that,” he says.

Andy probably inherited his love for teaching and coaching from his father, who teaches hypnosis.

“He’s a bit of a guru in his field,” he says. “He also teaches psychotherapy and coaches people and sets up courses and stuff I’ve done. I ended up getting a couple of diplomas and one diploma in coaching for solutions.

“Sothatreallyhelpsmeinmyroleinschool. Outside of school I’m seeing clients, kids and adolescents, giving them coaching sessions as well to help them.”

Andy is currently writing a third book called Quality Relationships Matter in conjunction with John Henry OAM.

“It’s about relationship-based education,” he says.

“There’s five pillars to relationship-based education - trust, forgiveness, integrity, hope and compassion. And those five skills, John says, gives people the tools to create quality relationships.

“Like adults, kids will make mistakes. But if you punish them, there’s no learning. So we want to be able to educate kids so when they make a mistake, they’re going to learn from it. So how do you fix that up when you’ve made a mistake? What do you do to fix up that thing in a relationship where you’ve done so well? How do you get that trust back? How do we show the compassion for that error that we’ve made? I’m hoping this will be a very helpful book.”

Despite telling himself after his first book that he would never write another, Andy has plans for more.

“I do have another few books in the pipeline,” he says. “Someone said something about writing a book Connecting With Your Family or Connecting With Your Grandchildren and the other one I’d like to write is Connecting With Your Students.”

See andymcneilly.com.au to learn more about Andy’s publications, workshops, coaching, webinars and more.

Above: Andy McNeilly is the author of Connecting With Your Kids and Connecting With Your Teens. Left: Andy with his wife Sandi and three children Daisy, Finn, and Monty. (Pictures: Supplied)

Disappointment at regulations

By Jena Carr

Geelong anti-shooting groups were left “disappointed” with the new Victorian Wildlife (Game) Regulations 2024.

The hunting regulations will come into effect on September 7, with changes including the phase-out of toxic lead ammunition for all game hunting and an increase in the duck season’s length.

Geelong Duck Rescue’s (GDR) David Mould said he felt that “no serious initiatives” were included in the new regulations to reduce wounding rates or improve shooters’ training.

“All the members of GDR are disappointed with the new regulations, but not one of us is surprised,” he said.

“Theone(positive)elementintheregulations is the phase-out of lead shot completely... which has taken until now to get the job completely done.

“The new regulations are barely a change from the old regulations. It has increased the length of the season and reduced the accountability of shooters.

“Shooter behaviour has been deeply problematic, year after year. These regulations do not address the cruelty aspects of the

Ripples can be life-changing

Queenscliff’s Cottage by the Sea has shared its latest research report from Deakin University’s Strategic Research Centre – Research for Educational Impact (REDI) – The Impact of Cottage by the Sea: From Ripples to Waves. PublishedinJuly2024,theresearchexplored the medium- to long-term impacts of Cottage by the Sea through interviews with current and former program participants, going back as early as 1939.

“The research brings to life the enduring impact of Cottage by the Sea – insights that we have known anecdotally for some time but can be so difficult to quantify and articulate,” Cottage by the Sea chief executive Adam Wake said. “The report shows how even the smallest of ripples can empower these children and young people to ride life’s larger, more challenging, waves.

“A former cottage participant who was interviewed in this research has gone on to participate in the Olympics and the

Commonwealth Games. She said that her experiences at Cottage have helped shape her life in a more positive way. This is just one exampleofhowanexperienceatCottagebythe Sea is literally life-changing.”

The findings of the study can be summarised in the four broad themes: fostering fun and enjoyment; building relationships; providing a safe haven; and (re)creating happy memories.

The four recommendations will allow Cottage by the Sea to develop and enhance its programs further so that the children’s charity can continue to achieve its mission of offering inspiration, fun and opportunity to more children.

“It was the most humbling and rewarding piece of research work I have been involved with,” lead researcher on the project professor Louise Paatsch said.

For more information about Cottage by the Sea and to read the report and summary of the research, visit cottagebythesea.com.au

ThePharmacyPilotProgram isimprovingaccessto healthcareintheBellarine.

bloodsport, not the environmental impact of the litter they leave behind.”

GeelongFieldandGameconservationofficer Trent Leen said the new regulations recognised the role that sustainable hunting played in wildlife management and conservation.

“The main driving force behind the hunter conservation movement is to protect the habitat and ensure the waterfowl and quarry that we chase is sustainable,” he said.

“There are some things that we would like slightly different in there, but the government’s commitment to hunting and their acknowledgement of our conservation

work is heartwarming.

“The steel (lead) shot for quail was a recommendation by the select committee that I don’t believe has been fully explored for a shut hard phasing.

“We’re not denying that it’s the right thing to do in the long term, but the industry needs time to adapt and import the right selection of shells.”

Visit engage.vic.gov.au/proposed-wildlifegame-regulations-2024-and-regulatoryimpact-statement for more information and to access a copy of the Wildlife (Game) Regulations 2024.

Free safety, aged care session for seniors

Federal Circuit and Family Court of

Ms Ebejer said she would present a wide range of topics around family violence and personal safety.

“I’ll talk about family violence and stalking laws, victims of crime and how to get assistance,” she said.

“I’ll also talk about what you can do if you think something’s going wrong in someone’s household or their personal life.

“It will delve into what you can do to protect yourself and to help protect others in the community, looking into some of the agencies and laws and how to get them to

“It’s for everybody, not just women. It’s really good for anyone to hear this information.”

Walk-ins are welcome, or sign up at the Portarlington Senior Citizens Club.

Matt Hewson

Family lawyer Marlene Ebejer is one of the presenters at the Safety and Care information

Pardalote sighted in Ocean Grove

I haven’t had a great amount of time to go out birdwatching over the past few weeks, but I went for a walk one sunny afternoon in the Ocean Grove Nature Reserve.

I had a close encounter with a beautiful male spotted pardalote that looked like it was checking out a hollow in the ground as a nesting spot.

Spotted pardalotes nest in hollows or burrows underground. The wings, tail and head of the male spotted pardalote are black and covered with small, white spots, and they have a pale eyebrow, a yellow throat and a red rump. Females are similar but have less-distinct markings.

I also visited Robyn who lives in Wallington, and watched the male peacock in her garden showing off or displaying his feather quality to the female peahen, and the quality of the his plumage was outstanding.

I also had a walk around Blue Waters Lake in Ocean Grove with residents and members of the Ocean Grove Coastcare group. We saw a spotless crake, which was great, and also a buff-banded rail, as well as around 30 other species, so it was a lovely morning.

I think many residents of Ocean Grove are travelling at the moment, or just back from their trip north.

BarryandBernieLinghamhavejustreturned from Cape York, where they saw a pair of palm cockatoos, which were a highlight of their trip. They spotted more than 200 species of birds between Ocean Grove and Cape York.

IreceivedanemailfromCarole,whohasjust returned from a birding trip to Darwin and Kununurra, where she did not expect many varieties of birds in the dry season, but was pleasantly surprised. She was thrilled with the birdlife around Lake Argyle. She took a boat trip around the lake which left the jetty at 4am, and the chats on Chat Island were superb.

On her return to the Bellarine, Carole was sittinginasupermarketcarparknearDrysdale and onto the tall wooden fence landed a couple of spotted doves. They are such ‘common’ birds that Carole hadn’t looked closely at them before. It’s a bit like me being captivated by the peacock - a non-native bird that is just stunning.

I received an email from Karen, who like Barry and Bernie, has recently travelled to Cairns and northern Queensland. One bird that Karen did not photograph was the pale-headed rosella although she got a good look at this species through her binoculars. The species that Karen did photograph included the nankeen night-heron, bush-stone

curlew, pied butcherbird, brown honeyeater and buff-banded rail.

I received an email from Geoff who had to slam on his car brakes to avoid running over a pair of wood ducks on the road near his house. Geoff observed that the wood ducks’ behaviour at this nesting time of the year, in nesting season, can be erratic, and that they do not nest near water.

Wood ducks nest in tree hollows that are not necessarily around waterways, and once the ducklingsarereadytoleavethenest,thefemale flies to the ground and the duckling will leap to the ground and follow their parents to water.

This is fraught with danger as they negotiate roads and dogs and cats on this journey.

I have to make an apology regarding my article in the last edition of the Voice where I relayed that during Stephen’s trip to Broken Hill,hesawa‘variegatedwren’.Inthatregionof Australia the wren that Stephen photographed would have been a purple-backed fairy wren. Thanks to Peter Bright for correcting me.

To clarify, in 2018 the variegated and purple-backed fairy wrens were split into two distinct species. The variegated range was updated to east of the Great Dividing Range in Southeast Queensland, while the

purple-backed can be found west of the GDR, with an overlap zone between the species in parts of south-east Queensland and north-east NSW.

To differentiate between the two species the main feature to focus on is the colour of the mantle on the brightly coloured males.

Intheeast-edgeoftheirrange,purple-backed have a mid violet blue mantle, compared to the royal blue of the variegated.

Thanks Peter for your feedback, it’s much appreciated, and thanks to everyone else for their trip reports that have made me green with envy.

Karen’s cheeky pied butcher bird in Far North Queensland, Carole’s yellow chat on Chat Island, and Jen’s peacock at Wallington.

Jen’s spotted pardalote at Ocean Grove Nature Reserve.

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Be a voice for the young

By Cr Trent Sullivan

Are you, or is someone you know, a young person passionate about making a real difference in your community?

The City of Greater Geelong Youth Council is your opportunity to be the official voice of young people in our region.

Comprising 11 individuals aged 12 to 17, the Youth Council collaborates to advise the City Council on issues that matter most to their generation.

The Youth Council plays a critical role in shaping the future by ensuring that young people’s concerns and ideas are heard by decision-makers. This isn’t just about talking; it’s about taking meaningful action.

Past Youth Councils have tackled significant issues, such as the harm caused by vaping, demonstrating their leadership on key topics.

One of their standout achievements is the advocacy for a youth hub in central Geelong. Over three years, separate Youth Councils worked tirelessly to bring this project to life.

The 2022 and 2023 Youth Councils played central roles in its progress, while the 2024 group has been instrumental in the design process.

Thanks to their dedication, the project is now a reality, with $400,000 in funding from the Victorian government and construction set to begin soon.

The hub will be a space designed by young people, for young people, featuring areas to hang out, get creative, learn to cook and more.

The first Youth Council for the City of Greater Geelong was elected in 2019, following the recommendations of the Citizen’s Jury.

Being on the Youth Council is more than just attending meetings. Participants gain hands-on experience that sets them up for

the future, from leadership training to the Councillor Connect Mentoring program.

As someone who has worked closely with many Youth Councils, I am consistently impressed by the passion, creativity and dedication these young leaders bring to the table.

Theircommitmentandbrilliantideasinspire me, and working with the Youth Council through the mentoring program has been one of the highlights of my calendar.

Being part of the Youth Council isn’t just another extracurricular activity - it’s an opportunity to shape the future and make your voice heard in a meaningful way. The connections you make and the skills you gainwillbeinvaluable,andyou’llmake a real difference in your community.

Nominations for the 2025 Youth Council are open until 13 September 2024. This is your chance to step up and join an incredible cohort of young people advocating for change.

The induction will be held in mid-late January 2025, and many past councillors describe working with Youth Council as one of their most rewarding experiences.

If you’re ready to lead, learn and make a difference, nominate yourself or a friend today at geelongaustralia.com. au/youthcouncil.

This is your chance to be part of the next wave of leaders shaping Geelong’s future.

City of Greater Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan. (Supplied)

‘Special’ debut for a big band

By Matt Hewson

Get ready to have your Lindy well and truly hoppedwhentheregion’snewestjazzorchestra debuts at Blackman’s Brewery this month.

Newly formed community ensemble Surf Coast Big Band will perform two in the popular Torquay venue’s beer garden, kicking off at 2pm on Sunday, September 15.

The 18-piece band boasts full saxophone, brass and rhythm sections and will feature well-known local performer Mark Huglin on vocals, performing classic big band repertoire from the 30s and 40s as well as jazzed up versions of more contemporary songs.

The band was formed at the beginning of this year by music director and trombonist OierSalegui,whoisoriginallyfromtheBasque region in the north-east of Spain.

A lifelong musician, Salegui said when he and his wife moved to the Surf Coast in 2017 with their one-year-old daughter he had stopped playing to focus on his family.

With his children now a little older, he felt it was time to get the trombone out of its case once more.

“Last year I joined the Bellarine Big Band,

and they had a good relationship with the Lara Big Band, sharing, helping each other,” he said.

“That inspired me, it made me think if these guys were able to set up big bands in Portarlington and Lara, well, we should be able to do something similar on the Surf Coast.”

To that end, Salegui put out the feelers on social media.

According to band secretary Chas McPhail the response from people of all ages and experience levels was overwhelming.

“We had about 12 bass players put their hands up, quite a few drummers; it didn’t take us too long to get a full big band together,” McPhail said.

“We’re a community focused thing, so we just encourage all players to come along, give it a try and see if they like it, and we can work from there. It’s fun, it’s really good fun.”

Salegui said everyone in the band was excited to show the community, and especially their loved ones, what they had achieved with hard work throughout the year.

“I honestly can’t believe it’s happening; we are all super excited and looking forward to playing this first one, it’s going to be special for us,” he said.

Ukulele Queen brings it home

Renowned singer/songwriter Sarah Carroll will round out the tour of her new album NQR&B on home turf, showcasing her latest collection of songs at the Barwon Club on Sunday, September 22.

She will be joined by her band The Big Fuss, which includes guitar luminaries Shannon Bourne and Leigh Ivin and her sons Fenn (drums) and George (bass), with special guest Jack Meredith on harmonica.

Affectionately known as the Ukulele Queen of the Bellarine, the moniker may be a little misleading. On the album Carroll performs lead vocals, guitars, electric and upright basses, as well as glockenspiel and various other percussion instruments.

The album also features the world class Tim Neal on keys and clarinet and local musician and sound engineer Jasper Jolley on bass, keyboards and pedal steel.

Carroll said the album was a paean of “compassion for oneself, hope and honest reflection”.

“They’re the main themes that tie the songs together; they deal with lots of different subjects but really are mainly about life and learning from the last 10 years or so,” she said. “(First track Done To) is really a response to the feeling (through COVID) of being

confined and held, and the benefits of that, which I thought were plentiful, actually,” she said.

“My kids came home for a good part of that time. And I saw society changing, sort of going backwards, but in a good way, to a really small community kind of way of operating, which I thought was really beautiful.

“I loved the way that so many people showed care and compassion for each other, really extended themselves as far as they were able to look after each other during that time.”

The presence of Carroll’s late husband Chris WilsonispalpablethroughoutNQR&B,butthe mood is celebratory rather than melancholy.

She said bringing those songs to life with her sons and some of her closest friends was “wonderful and very comforting”.

“Shannon and Leigh were both very close to Chris, and so the songs that deal with grief and talk about him were particularly precious to me and close to my heart,” Carroll said.

“Having that core (band) be people who I knew would understand and would really put everything they had into those tunes was just an absolute blessing and I couldn’t have really done it any other way.”

Women’s Health Forum

For more information, please contact:

Email Libby.Coker.MP@aph.gov.au

Phone 03 5261 7683 Web libbycoker.com.au

We’ve established an Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain specialist clinic in Belmont. Scan the QR code to find out more

We’ve put Australia on track to be the first country in the world to eliminate cervical cancer by 2035 and have expanded DIY cervical cancer testing.

We’re addressing period poverty in remote First Nations communities by making pads and tampons free.

We’ve delivered Australia’s first ever dedicated funding for miscarriage, including millions for better bereavement support, education and data.

We’ve brought together researchers, academics and women with lived experience to advise the government through the National Women’s Health Advisory Council

Matt Hewson

Surf Coast Big Band’s Chas McPhail, Mark Huglin, Heather Anderson and Oier Salegui. (Ivan Kemp) 429590_08

Libby Coker MP Federal Member for Corangamite

Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care

Ged Kearney MP

Natalie Anderson Physiotherapist at Innerstrength Health Care Kardinia Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic

Dr Caitlyn Pring

CELEBRATING SENIORS

Don’t miss this opportunity to move to Bellarine Lakes

The final stage of Bellarine Lakes Country Club, the only retirement village on the Bellarine or Geelong with a private golf course, is now selling.

We encourage you to find out what all the fuss is about before these brand new homes are sold. Particularly at these never to be repeated prices and Stamp Duty Savings of up to $70,000 – when will there be a better time?

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to purchase one of the last remaining newly built villas.

The popular three bedroom – plus study 21 square Eden Beach and the spacious two bedroom open plan Belford Waters design have been highly sought after in our last stages of development. Visit our displays today to see these quality built homes and the retirement living options you deserve.

The Eden Beach design offers three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a study, open plan living, extensive outdoor entertaining and a double garage. A stylish kitchen featuring stone bench tops, loads of storage and quality appliances. The home has all the features you could possibly desire and the comfort of low maintenance living with resort style facilities in your own backyard.

The enviable resort style living facility includes; a private golf course, a four-rink bowlinggreen,tenniscourt,hobbyworkshop, gymnasium, indoor heated swimming pool and outdoor lap pool, alfresco dining and a beautifully appointed community clubhouse which houses a cinema, billiard room, craft room, medical room, library, fully equipped catering kitchen, club bar and even indoor carpet bowls.

In addition to scheduled monthly events there are around 30 activity groups offering a

Just Better Care client Lyn Mulligan. (Ivan Kemp) 402348_25

Bellarine Lakes at their Open Day on September 20 at noon for

diverse range of activities including; cycling, fishing, aqua aerobics, walking groups, wine appreciation, craft and card groups. Join us for a two-course luncheon at noon on Friday September 20 – RSVP is essential

No other service compares to the care and respect that Just Better Care’s staff provide to its clients.

Lyn Mulligan said she looked forward to seeing her carers each week and had built some lovely trusting relationships with the in-home aged care and disability support service’s “beautiful people”.

“We share stories, have a laugh and everyone I have met truly cares,” she said.

“They allow me to keep my independence, they are patient and just so helpful and caring. It means a lot to me, and I have confidence in them.

“Having the support of Just Better Care means security, and it means that I can stay in my own home.”

Lyn recently moved into a retirement village and states that she was “so happy” to be able to take her regular carers along with her to her new home.

“I wouldn’t have anyone else, I choose Just Better Care as I have grown to respect them and the wonderful care that they provide,” she said.

To start your Just Better Care journey, call 03 5222 1518, email mailge@justbettercare. com or visit the caring team at their office at Level 1 114a Mt Pleasant Road in Belmont. Visit justbettercare.com/Geelong for more information.

as spaces are limited. Contact Bellarine Lakes Country Club or visit 402 Bellarine Bellarine Highway, Moolap.

Our friendly Lifestyle Consultant Lisa Duke welcomes any queries you may have.

CELEBRATING SENIORS

Affordable dentures fitted with a smile

Gain a smile worthy of showing off thanks to the team at Affordable Denture Clinic, now in East Geelong.

Established 10 years ago, the clinic can provide you with a mouth full of solutions including dentures, partial dentures, custom mouth guards and denture implants.

Owner and dental prosthetist Jason Demko has more than 30 years’ experience in the dental field and has just opened the doors to the clinic’s brand new location at 306 Myers Street, East Geelong.

Mr Demko and his team are able to discuss a variety of options to help you achieve your

Affordable Denture Clinic is the only denture clinic in the greater Geelong area authorised to provide and manufacture Valplast, the only dentures with an unbreakable lifetime guarantee.

Metal free and with invisible clasps, they’re a great resolution to your denture needs.

Striving to find the best denture solution, Mr Demko and his team ensure the utmost care and quality of service to their patients.

“Weareafamilyownedbusinesscommitted to providing highly personalised services to each individual,” he said.

best smile yet.

Ensuring he keeps up-to-date with the latest dental prosthetist technologies, Mr Demko focuses on utilising a variety of systems to integrate new practises into his denture work at the clinic.

Aspartofitscareandqualityfocusedservice,

The clinic’s new location, Mr Demko said, is a reflection of hard work and commitment to provide an environment to give his clients the very best in dental prosthetics. He said it wouldn’t have been possible without ongoingsupportfromthecommunity and clients.

Committed to providing a highly personalised service, the team at Affordable Denture Clinic can help you smile again.

Appointments can be made online at www.afordabledentureclinic.com.au

Jason Demko with patient Eddie Fraser.

Inset: Inside the clinic.

(Pictures: Ivan Kemp)

CELEBRATING SENIORS

Harwood Andrews takes the guesswork out of wills

What can you give away in your will?

You can only give away assets you own personally. Assets that form part of your estate include real estate, bank accounts, investments and other assets in your sole name.

Not all assets that you have an interest in form part of your estate, including:

• assets held jointly with another person;

• assets in a family trust; and

• superannuation benefits (unless paid to your estate).

Appointing an executor

Your executor’s responsibilities include arranging your funeral, identifying assets and liabilities, obtaining a grant of probate, calling in assets, paying debts, finalising your tax affairs and distributing your estate in accordance with your will.

Youshouldchoosesomeonewhocantakeon these responsibilities, and who you trust to act in the best interest of the beneficiaries.

Making specific gifts

You can make specific gifts in your will, such as leaving a personal or sentimental item, cash gift, or a specific asset to a particular beneficiary.

How will your residuary estate be distributed? Your residuary estate is the assets that remain after your funeral, debts and taxeshavebeenpaid,andanyspecificgiftshave been made.

Your residuary estate can be distributed between family members, friends or charities in any proportions you choose.

Are there any protections for vulnerable

beneficiaries? If there is a beneficiary with a disability or other vulnerability, your will can providefortheestablishmentofatrustfortheir benefit and protection.

What about a challenge to your will?

The law allows certain eligible persons to challenge your will if they believe that you failed to provide for their proper maintenance and support.

There are strategies available to reduce the risk of a challenge, or the impact of a challenge.

How does superannuation fit into your estate planning?

Superannuation benefits can be paid directly to a dependant (generally being your spouse, a child or a person in an interdependency relationship with you), or alternatively to your estate. You can give the trustee of your superannuation fund directions about how to pay your superannuation benefits by making a binding death benefit nomination (BDBN). You can only nominate a dependant or your estate as a beneficiary.

A BDBN which nominates relatives such as a parent or sibling, or a friend, is invalid (unless that person is considered a ‘dependant’).

If you do not have a valid BDBN when you die, the trustee of your superannuation fund

will decide how your superannuation benefits are paid, which may not be consistent with your wishes and may lead to disputes between eligible beneficiaries.

Have your circumstances changed? If you already have a will, but your personal or financial circumstances have changed, you should review your will.

How we can help you Harwood Andrews has an experienced Wills & Estates team who can assist you with your estate planning needs. Please contact us to discuss your estate planning on 03 5225 5225,

Harwood Andrews Wills & Estates team.

CELEBRATING SENIORS

A little help with exercise for seniors can go a long way

A large study of older Australians has found more would exercise - and exercise better - if classes were subsidised.

The Monash University research studied exercise classes all over the country, which had been commissioned and run by national exercise industry group, Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA). The classes involved 7000 people over the age of 65 living in the community.

The research found subsidised 12-week exercise classes of low-to-moderate intensity, and run by accredited exercise professionals, led to “significant improvements in physical function” and less time sitting. The findings are outlined in three new studies published in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, BMC Geriatrics and Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport.

The research was led by Dr Christina Ekegren with Rehabilitation, Ageing and Independent Living (RAIL) Research Centre Associate Professor Sze-Ee Soh and Associate Professor Darshini Ayton and Professor Helen Skouteris from the School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine.

The primary aim was to determine factors associated with participation in community-based exercise classes of older Australians.Asecondaryaimwastoinvestigate the association between participation and changes in physical activity levels. The study also measured the cost utility of the program.

Dr Ekegren said the research project was important for understanding the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of subsidised classes for older adults, and which types of exercise older adults are most likely to enjoy.

“Despitesomeofthebarriersthatolderadults face in engaging with exercise programs, there is still significant potential for improvements

in strength, mobility and physical activity participation,” Dr Ekegren said.

“So far, few studies of this scale have been completed in Australia so this research will help cement what we know about the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of exercise for older adults.”

The Exercise Right for Active Ageing program reached older Australians from every state and territory, including those from regional and remote parts of Australia, and including some aged over 85 years. Many had high levels of comorbidity.

ESSA received Australian Government funding via the Australian Sports Commission toinitiateandruntheclasses,whichweretaught

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by accredited exercise scientists (AESs) and physiologists (AEPs) within community-based facilitiessuchasfitnesscentresandcommunity health centres, in metropolitan, regional, and remote areas.

The classes studied included aerobics, aqua aerobics, pilates, balance, yoga, circuits and gym. Each participant paid an average $8 per class.

The driver for the program relates to a key recommendation from the World Health Organization Global Action Plan on Physical Activity which recommends nations should strengthen physical activity programs and services for older adults.

According to the WHO Global Action Plan,

older adults worldwide are not physically active enough, with up to 60?per cent failing to meet current global physical activity guidelines. WHO’s key recommendation is better access to exercise programmes.

Costhasalsobeenreportedasamajorbarrier to participating in exercise programs for older adults. Research has also suggested that older adults would benefit from receiving financial subsidies, from governments for example, for group exercise classes.

ESSA president Dr Brendan Joss said staying physically active was incredibly important for good physical and mental health and to reduce the risk of multiple health conditions.

“We need to strengthen physical activity programs for older adults with scalable, affordable and effective programs that address the health concerns of our ageing population,” Dr Joss said.

“Subsidised exercise classes delivered by an accredited professional that accommodate for physical limitations and reduce stigma is essential to get more older Australians moving.”

Funding subsidies, Dr Joss said, would be an “effective low-cost strategy for improving the health outcomes and quality of life for older Australians that governments can introduce now”.

Physical improvements were measured by the accredited exercise physiologists running the classes. Improvements were shown in sit-to-stand exercises, timed up-and-go tests, right and left reach and waist measurement.

“The sheer numbers of older people who signed up for this program show the need for subsidised classes,” Dr Ekegren said.

“The classes ESSA provided were popular and valued and had a real impact on quality of life, especially in rural and regional areas.”

KG Lawyers is the family firm on the Bellarine

When do I need a Will?

If you are asking yourself this question, the chances are, you already need a Will. It can be a daunting process. KG Lawyers understands that each client is unique and provides tailored solutions for your estate now and in the future.

A well-executed Will can help avoid confusion and conflict among your loved ones and ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes. Just as a will directs your wishes for the distribution of your assets after your death, an enduring power of attorney allows you to appoint a trusted individual to make decisions on your behalf, if required.

Consulting a lawyer ensures your Will and Enduring Power of Attorney are valid, enforceable, and tailored to your specific needs. It will give you peace of mind knowing that your affairs are in good hands.

Our team has extensive experience and expertise and can guide our clients through the preparation of Wills, Powers of Attorney and to navigate the complexities of estate planning with confidence.

KG Lawyers invites you to visit our website at Kglawyers.com.au to use our estate planning tool, or call the office 5253 1238 so we may assist you.

KG Lawyers, the family firm on the Bellarine.

According to the WHO Global Action Plan, older adults worldwide are not physically active enough, with up to 60 per cent failing to meet current global physical activity guidelines. (Bruno Nascimento/Unsplash)

CELEBRATING SENIORS

Five ways to find and enjoy more time in retirement

Retirement comes with a number of adjustments and challenges.

For those downsizing to a community with low-maintenance homes like at Ingenia Lifestyle Lakeside Lara, one of the biggest considerations is what to do with all the extra leisure time when you’re no longer having to worry about costly and tiring home and garden maintenance.

Togiveyouinspiration,herearefivepopular waysIngeniaLifestyleresidentsmakethemost of their newfound leisure time:

1/ Cook and connect

Having friends round for a meal is one of the most satisfying ways to pass the time. For residents at Lakeside Lara, those friends are often like-minded neighbours within the welcoming community, making visits even easier. And having a beautiful,

light-filled home to host friends, as well as a well-appointed kitchen to cook up a storm, makes having more ‘thyme’ on your hands all the more enjoyable.

2/ Indulge your wanderlust

Jetting off to exotic locations or caravaning our wide brown plains is achievable when you live in a secure community where you can feel safe to ‘lock up and leave’ at any time. Plus, withIngeniaLifestyle’sfinancialmodel,you’ve got more financial freedom because there’s no stamp duty, no exit fees and no dreaded DMF on new homes.

3/ Become a local connoisseur

While travelling may tickle your fancy, you may also enjoy getting to know your surrounds a little better. Geelong is a beloved tourist destination for good reason - where

parks, walking tracks, beaches and scenery abound. Not to mention, of course, the vibrant restaurant scene, the tempting shopping areas, and golf courses. Lakeside Lara is nearby all these fabulous, exciting places to fill your social calendar, and it’s also within minutes of everyday essentials, like the supermarket, pharmacy, and cozy cafes.

4/ Get stretchy (or powerful)

If you’ve ever wanted to join a gym or yoga studio, now is your chance. But the best thing about living at Lakeside Lara is you don’t need to start any new membershipsbecause resort-style facilities are right on your doorstep. Whether it’s joining a weekly yoga class, hitting the gym or pool regularly, taking aswingonthegolfsimulator,orgoingforaroll on the green, you can spend your days doing what you love without leaving the community.

5/ Relax

Let’s not underestimate the power of taking a bigbreath,enjoyingsomepeaceandquiet,and sipping a cuppa on your beautiful alfresco. But relaxing means different things to different people. Maybe it’s honing your painting skills in the art studio, pottering in the community garden, or discussing the latest best-seller at book club. Or maybe it’s simply sharing a drink with friends in the Community Hub on a Friday night.

When you think about your next chapter, consider a welcoming environment like Lakeside Lara, with new homes selling now from $529,000.

Call Rhonda on 0491 229 257, visit liveinlara.com.au, or visit our display homes from 10am to 4pm Monday to Saturday.

Sip a cuppa on your beautiful alfresco.

“Our

Shopping local

As the weather warmed up, Voice photographer Ivan Kemp ventured to The Terrace in Ocean Grove to who was shopping local.

Louise Larsen.

Left: Charlotte Courtot and baby Vienna. Above: Elizabeth Vollman, and Rebecca Leon and Sara Birer. Below: Mark Hobden and Paul Copeland. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 429680

Eamonn Murphy and Eric O’Malley.

Left: Rob McLaren and Peter Danger. Right: Bianca Marshall and Tara Bellears.

Left: Olga Cross. Above: Judy Barry and Karen King.

Maxine illustrates what it takes to be a writing finalist

Maxine Flakemore has won the final Bellarine Writing Competition topic and joins four other winners in the final. Competition judges thanked all those who have completed this year, especially those who contributed to several topics. Congratulations to Maxine for her winning story and special recommendations to Jen Eddy, Anne Whisken and Jude Lingard for their excellent contributions. Writing a short story of 750 words is not an easy task to enable you to contain all the information you wish to present. For the final, the judges will be looking forward to the writing of 1000 words with the winner to be published in the Voice on Friday November 15.

Judges’ comments

Thismonth’stopicwas‘Moving’.Thehistorical details lend credence to the story and paint a picture of the difficulties all young heroes and their families faced upon their return home as they move around the country to seek work. The story illustrates their optimism and simple pleasures in establishing their new lives, especially with the humorous incidents when they make their last move to Victoria.

THE STORY OF HOW MUM ARRIVED IN VICTORIA WITHOUT UNDERPANTS

When I was six, my parents decided to move from NSW to Victoria. My father found it very difficult to find work after returning from being a soldier in the Second World War. With no Government support in Australia then, and finding work eluded you; either you relied on your family to help or found resourceful ways to earn money to survive.

Dad was a bushman and keen horseman. He had left home at 14 years of age, driving cattle and sheep along the stock routes throughout NSW. Following the start of the Second World War, as many did, he put his age up to 18 and enlisted in the Second Light Horse Regiment. He was among those first troops sent to Syria and fought in Egypt.

The first Australian troops defending the Kokoda trail were overwhelmed when the Japanese army moved through Asia quickly, into New Guinea. Dad’s unit was sent back to New Guinea to reinforce strength and fight on the Kokoda where his best mate who he had enlisted with, was killed. Devastated and desperate to escape the hell of Kokoda, he signedupforanewunitofvolunteeroperatives from the three services. He was sent to Fraser Island to be commando-trained.

The unit was called FELO, top secret, and known as Z Force. Dad served six missions in New Guinea and Borneo. Small units were flown in by Catalina behind the Japanese lines into the remotest parts of New Guinea and Borneo, for several months at a time, to gain intelligence on the Japanese troop movements and observe and report on the state of the 2000-plus prisoners of war in Borneo.

Dad was 22 when he returned from war and went straight into civilian life. He was battle-hardened, super-alert, disillusioned, and weary.

Upon his return, a whirlwind romance ensued when he met my mother, an attractive young city girl who had never travelled. She had experienced a very different kind of war. They were engaged within two weeks and married in six months.

Within a year and with a young family to be responsible for, finding work meant moving around a lot. Aiming to one day have a farm of his own he moved from property to property managing large remote stations across NSW and up towards the Queensland border.

I have memories of the many places we

Maxine Flakemore

Maxine is a baby boomer, who grew up in the country, drawing all the farm animals. She describes herself as “a crusty old nurse with a few tales to tell”. She studied Fine Arts in the 1980s and taught children’s art for several years. Since her retirement, after 55 years of working in many areas of healthcare, Maxine has enjoyed writing children’s picture books about her life, and the birds and animals she has cared for. Through the magic of illustration, Maxine aims to convey to them that all of nature has a family network like humans do and that birds and animals have feelings, show emotion, and behave similarly to people when they encounter life changes. Her books are suited to children aged 2-8 years.

You can contact Maxine, on her website, maxflakebooks.com

moved to. Mum always managed to create a garden wherever we were living. To this day, I love the sweet smell of Sweet Peas. They grew in a pot climbing up a trellis, on a shed we lived in and helped build every weekend when Dad came home after being away contract fencing all week.

Dad heard about a government scheme, called the Soldier Settler Commission. It was to help returning soldiers support themselves on the land. He applied unsuccessfully for a loan to purchase a property in NSW.

My mother suggested we go for a holiday to Victoria, visit her family while there, and look for a soldier settler farm in Victoria.

Thus, in 1953, we travelled to Victoria. We toured the Pacific Highway with our few worldly goods loaded into the small Ford Anglia Utility. My sister and I sat in the tarpaulin-covered open tray. It was a great adventure for us. We thought we were smart playing statues in the back and amusing any travellers behind us. The narrow highway was a long, windy gravel road back then. We must have looked very strange to passers-by, statues covered in red dust.

Mum carried the family cat on her knee. The cat, being very stressed, promptly wet herself. Being rather impatient, Dad had no intention of stopping until we reached Cann River. It was the only town large enough to stop back then. Dad’s solution, was to hang Mum’s pants out the window to dry, as we travelled on. Upon our arrival in Cann River, we discovered that somehow or other Mum’s underpants had disappeared along the way.

As soon as we pulled up, the cat fled, never to be seen again. I spent many hours worrying about how it would survive without us. This was probably a relief for the cat.

Mum always loved to tell the story of how we came to live in Victoria.

“I arrived to live in Victoria without any underpants on.”

Embrace the changing season and try these light dishes

Spring is perfect for lighter, brighter dishes that highlight the delicate flavours of young vegetables, tender greens, and fresh herbs. Whether you’re planning a garden party, a family brunch, or simply want to enjoy the best of spring’s bounty, here are some delightful spring recipes that celebrate the season’s best ingredients.

Asparagus and pea risotto

Asparagus and peas are quintessential spring vegetables, and when combined in a creamy risotto, they create a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing.

Ingredients:

1 cup Arborio rice

1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed and cut into 3cm pieces

1 cup fresh or frozen peas

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups vegetable broth, kept warm

1/2 cup dry white wine

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh lemon juice and zest (optional)

Fresh herbs like parsley or mint for garnish

Method:

1/ Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sauteing until softened.

2/ Stir in the Arborio rice, coating it with the oil and toasting for about 2 minutes.

3/ Pour in the white wine, stirring constantly until it is absorbed.

4/ Add the warm vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow the liquid to absorb before adding more.

5/ When the rice is nearly cooked (about 15 minutes), add the asparagus and peas, continuing to cook until the rice is tender and the vegetables are just cooked through.

6/ Stir in the butter, Parmesan cheese, and season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

7/ Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon zest before serving.

Spring green salad with honey-lemon vinaigrette

This salad is a celebration of all things green, showcasing the best of spring’s leafy vegetables and herbs.

Ingredients: 4 cups mixed spring greens (like arugula, spinach, and baby kale)

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1/2 cup snap peas, halved

1 cucumber, thinly sliced

1/4 cup fresh mint leaves

1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves

1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

1/4 cup toasted pine nuts

For the Honey-Lemon Vinaigrette:

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon honey

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1/ In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.

2/ In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens,

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snap peas, cucumber, mint, and parsley.

3/ Drizzle the salad with the vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.

4/ Top with crumbled feta cheese and toasted pine nuts before serving.

Lemon herb roasted chicken

This simple yet flavourful dish is perfect for a Sunday roast or a casual dinner. The combination of lemon and fresh herbs infuses the chicken with a bright, zesty flavour.

Ingredients:

1 whole chicken (about 1.8kg)

1 lemon, quartered

4 cloves garlic, crushed

1/4 cup fresh herbs (like rosemary, thyme, and parsley)

3 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth

Method:

1/ Preheat the oven to 220°C.

2/ Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub the olive oil all over the chicken and season generously with salt and pepper.

3/ Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the lemon quarters, garlic, and fresh herbs.

4/ Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and place the chicken on a rack in a roasting pan.

5/ Pour the white wine or chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan.

6/ Roast the chicken for about 1 hour and 20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 74°C.

7/ Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.

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JACK RABBIT

Walking the road less travelled

Harpist Michelle Doyle and fiddler Mickey O’Donnell launch their sophomore album Solace in Wonder at Newcomb Community Hall this September. Matt Hewson spoke to Michelle about the rewards and challenges she has faced along the way.

Michelle Doyle knew even as a youngster growing up on the Bellarine that she wanted to play music. And not just any instrument, but the harp.

Many parents may have been bemused by such an uncommon wish, but Michelle’s mother Cathy Blake was a musician herself.

Still, the logistics were tricky.

“I had started playing piano and violin, and they were also two instruments that my mum played,” Michelle said. “A harp is not something we have in the family, and Mum was like, oh, that’s challenging; financially, but also, where do you find a teacher?”

So quite naturally, at age six Michelle took up the life of a travelling acrobat to earn the dough she needed for a harp of her own.

“My auntie was an acrobat and she had this idea; I was about six, my cousin was five, and my auntie and her partner had this little family troupe or whatever.

“I did it for about two years, and we ended up actually going over to South Korea, where we did a 10-day stint.

“I made $1000 and I said, Mum, I want to buy a harp. So I quit being an acrobat and bought the harp.”

Throughout her childhood and adolescence Michelle performed often with her mother and sisters, playing her first wedding gig on harp at age 11 or so, but she resisted the idea of making music a career until faced with the concept of work experience.

“I just thought, I really don’t know what else I would do and I don’t have anything else I enjoy nearly as much, or am as good at,” she said.

“I have a feeling I may have used gigs to tick that(workexperience)box,andthenIwaslike, okay, I need to do music. Stop fighting this.

“So I thought I would try for a scholarship to go to the (Victorian College of the Arts Secondary) School in Melbourne and I got in.”

Michelle completed her VCE at VCASS, earning a spot in the Top Class and Top Acts concerts with her assessed performances.

Up to this stage, Michelle had been playing the smaller lever harp, more suited to folk music than classical. But she wanted to continue studying music at the tertiary level, which meant doing a classical music degree.

“The lever harp is smaller, much more portable, but not fully chromatic, so not able to be played in an orchestra unless parts are specially written for it,” she said.

“The orchestral harp is a pedal harp, and it’s 6-foot tall and 40 kilos. They’re beautiful, and really annoying to move.

“If you want to do classical music you need a pedal harp… so I took a gap year and worked and, with the help of my parents also, purchased a pedal harp. Then I auditioned and went to Monash.”

While Michelle loved being part of the orchestra, it did pose challenges she hadn’t faced before.

She struggled with injuries and a newfound performanceanxietyshehadneverexperienced playing in a more folk-based setting.

After completing her Bachelor of Music she joined the Melbourne Scottish Fiddle Club, which helped her “build back up some of my confidence”.

Over the next few years Michelle played in a variety of lineups, including Shane Howard’s Exile show with musical luminaries such as Paul Kelly, John Spillane, Pauline Scanlon and Declan O’Rourke.

However, only a couple of years after finishing her uni degree Michelle received some unexpected and unwelcome news.

“I was diagnosed with osteoporosis, which is not something you expect a 24 year old to be diagnosed with,” she said.

“Thathasshapedmylife,asyoucanimagine, andthingsthatIdo.Thatwasthebigthingthat really motivated me to get into hiking.”

Her father had an interest in hiking, and after some research Michelle discovered that exercise, particularly weight-bearing exercise, helped build bone density.

“I really got into it; life became a lot about trying to build up my bone strength and getting myself stronger so I can continue to do the activities that I really like,” she said.

“You just get hooked on the whole lifestyle. It’s just being away in such a different place, you don’t have reception and you’re only

looking at green things.

“You’re relying on yourself and you’ve got everything on your back. It’s just totally addictive.”

Having completed the 655km Australian Alps Walking Trail in 2017, Michelle set her sights on “a bigger one; that’s the thing that happens, you’re always looking for a bigger one”.

Te Araroa, New Zealand’s Long Pathway, travels 3000km across both islands, taking six months or so.

Her new partner, professional musician Mickey, had embraced Michelle’s love of hiking but baulked at the idea of six months away from his violin.

Michelle solved the problem in her typically creative way; they would create a musical duo and do the trail as a walking tour.

“It sounds ridiculous; we weren’t even playing together,” she said. “But I called him and he was really taken by the idea of doing this walking tour. This was 2018 and we set our sights on doing that in 2019.

“Sowehadayeartofigureitout,writemusic together,recordanalbumandplanthishiking, walking musical tour.”

Sounds simple. But the pair faced musical dilemmas, not least around what style of music they were going to write and perform in.

“We met in the folk world but that was really new for Mickey; I grew up playing Celtic folk and classical music, whereas he did his tertiary studies on electric bass,” she said.

“He started playing violin as part of his

university degree, and the first thing he played on violin was jazz. I hadn’t delved into that at all. So it was actually really challenging at first, melding our two styles together.”

They found their way, developing a unique and personal style that fused their diverse influences into a joyous and heartfelt whole.

Having written and recorded their first album A Walking Pace, they toured it down the Long Pathway.

However, as with many people’s stories in recent times, the punchline was COVID19500km from the end of the trail they emerged from the mountains to find the world was in the grip of a pandemic.

Since then, Mickey and Michelle have moved to Geelong, not touring until this year to launch new album Solace in Wonder.

The last stop of their 27-show east coast tour is on home turf in Geelong, where they will be supported by Michelle’s sister and celebrated cellist Catie Alison.

Michelle said she was excited for the performance, as she and Mickey had never performed together in Geelong.

“We both have a number of students in Geelong, so to have a gig we can actually invite them to is really lovely,” she said.

“A fair chunk of my family is in Geelong too, and quite a few of them haven’t seen us play.”

Mickey & Michelle launch Solace in Wonder at Newcomb Community Hall at 4pm on Sunday, September 8. Visit events.humanitix. com/mickey-and-michelle-geelong-albumlaunch for tickets or more information.

Michelle Doyle and partner Mickey O’Donnell. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 427727 Right: Mickey and Michelle in the mountains of New Zealand. (Joanne McCloy)

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Ocean Grove Voice looks back through the pages of our predecessors

8 years ago

August 31 to September 13, 2016

An Ocean Grove woman was left with facial injuries after being attacked at Main Beach on Thursday morning.

Sharon Kewley, 45, was walking her dog with her partner when she said a man assaulted her.

6 years ago

September 12 to 25, 2018

Labor Member for Bellarine Lisa Neville has questioned her Liberal rival’s motive for moving to Ocean Grove recently. The Liberal candidate for Bellarine at the upcoming state election, Brian McKiterick, moved to Ocean Grove from Torquay a few months ago since being named as the party’s representative to contest the election.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

4 years ago

September 11 to 24, 2020

City of Greater Geelong has adopted a settlement strategy directing long-term growth away from the Bellarine Peninsula, althoughpermanentsettlementboundaries are yet to be locked in.

Councillors recently voted to accept all 13 recommendations of an independent panel and adopt amendment C395.

2 years ago

September 9 to 22, 2022

Portarlington’s Grand Hotel has applied to the City of Greater Geelong to extend the hours of operation for its beer garden. Council granted a planning permit on July5toallowforanincreaseofthelicensed area of the existing hotel on Newcombe Street.

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

Ballroom dance

Leopold Hall, 805-809 Bellarine Highway, Saturday September 7, 7.30pm-11pm, music Ben Costanzo, $10 includes supper. Sunday September 8, 2pm-4.30pm, $5, bring a plate, music Kevin.

 0400 500 402

Market

Saturday September 7, Mirambeena Park, Warralily Boulevard, Armstrong Creek. 10am-3pm.

Christian singles

Dinner at Kebab G Authentic Mediterranean Grill, 216 Pakington Street, Geelong West. Saturday September 14, 6.30pm. Book by September 12.

 0400 662 352

Bellarine country music

Friday nights, music 7pm-10pm. Great band, walk ups welcome. Belmont Park Pavilion, entry $10.

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

 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

Free Men’s barbering haircuts Tuesday September 10, 10am-3pm, The Gordon East Campus, Building E Foyer, Boundary Road East Geelong. (No kids cuts)

1375-1377 Murradoc Road, (on Blanche Street), St Leonards.

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

Carpet bowls

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

 0400 500 402

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

Scottish country dancing classes

GOG Scottish Country Dance classes

7.30pm Tuesdays at Leopold Hill Hall, $5. No partner needed, just comfy casual

clothing and flat shoes.

 Jane, 0481 126 022, or Barbara, 0419 511 781

Ocean Grove Senior Citizens 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove

Weekly

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

Fortnightly

CWA 1st & 3rd Monday 2.30pm

 Kareen, 0419 246 346, or Janis, 5255 4585

Monthly

Inhouse Movies 3rd Wednesday 1.30pm.

 Dianne, 5255 1372

Book club

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

Cards

Ocean Grove Seniors play card game 500 every Thursday at 1.15pm. If you are new to the game a quick lesson will get you in play. The core group of six players adjust to any number and you will enjoy the friendship of like-minded players. Cost: $30 annually and coffee included. At 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove.

 Dianne, 5255 1372

TOWN club

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

 Bev, 0421 636 830

Ocean Grove Day VIEW

Meets second Wednesday of the month, 10.30am for 11am.

 oceangroveday.viewclub@gmail.com

Drysdale Day VIEW

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

 Margaret, 0431 636 090

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

 0428 546 796

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

 gwen.anne.james@gmail.com

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

 Lorraine, 0412 805 858

Afternoon tea dance

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

 5251 3529

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

Out and about

Voice photographer Ivan Kemp was busy at Leopold Memorial Reserve on Saturday August 31 taking footy and netball pics, but found time to see who was out and about.

1/ Ryan Shaw with Coco, Frankie and Oakley. 2/ Belinda Jones, Arlee Bennett, Emily Free, Charlotte Middleton and Claudia Free. 3/ Andie Armstrong and Kerry Britt. 5/ Lisa Wood and Lila Mustica. 6/ Macie Hay, Alana Hay and Casey Britain. 7/ Megan Hoare, Anthony Hoare, Emily Hoare, Matt Hart and Loretta Hart. 8/ Liv Quirk, Jorja Nicholson and Katie Walsgott. 9/ Jo Carson, Zoe Jones and Fiona Leahy. 10/ Ashleigh Ovens with daughter Poppy. 11/ Gavan Clark, Reg Hickey and Don Barton. 12/ Jess Tester with Charli, Lachie, Indi and Bodhi. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 428238

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,

ACROSS

1 Recording reproduction (8)

5 Expression (6)

10 Outdoor area adjoining a house (5)

11 Variety of nut (9)

12 Slanted font (6)

13 Southwest Pacific region (7)

14 Inflexible (8)

15 Art of dwarfing shrubs or trees (6)

18 From Tuscany (6)

20 Cloistered (8)

21 Plaintiff (7)

24 Easily (6)

27 Waterer (9)

28 Fastening (5)

29 Fluffy dessert (6)

30 Graveyard (8)

DOWN

1 Pontiff (4)

2 Heights (9)

3 Barbecue (5)

4 Cubic contents (8)

6 Dismissal (5-2)

7 Pale (5)

8 Pathological self-admirer (9)

9 Capital of Norway (4)

14 Banishment (9)

16 Moon (9)

17 Keep (8)

19 Gives (7)

22 One of the Ionian islands (5)

23 Book of the Bible (4)

25 Unit of length (5)

26 Unsightly (4)

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”.

Nellie Lovett, Johanna Barker and Judge Turpin are all characters from which musical?

2 What breed of dog is used as a piece on the Monopoly board?

3 In what century did the Wars of the Roses occur? 4 And which two royal houses did they involve? 5 Rooney Mara (pictured) starred as the titular character in which biblical drama film? 6 Who wrote Charlotte’s Web TheTrumpetoftheSwan and Stuart Little?

7 What did the 19th Amendment to the United States Constitution legalise?

8 What type of fruit is a cara cara navel?

9 How many Celtic languages are still spoken today?

In which US city did the first Starbucks open?

No. 202

No. 201

ACCOUNTING SERVICES

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ANTENNAS

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AUTOMOTIVE

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RATINGS Looks: 9/10

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Electric Genesis powers on

By Alistair Kennedy, Marque Motoring

GV60 is the first dedicated electric vehicle from Hyundai’s luxury sub-brand Genesis.

Launched here in early 2022 it’s the smallest of the three models in the Genesis SUV range behind the mid-sized GV70 and large GV80. Each of the three models get different powertrain choices. Our test vehicle, The GV60 is fully-electric, the GV80 comes with turbo-petrol or diesel, as does the GV70 but with an EV option added. Our test vehicle, the GV60, is electric only.

Genesis GV60 sits on the same platform as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6. With a starting price of just over $100,000 the Genesis is significantly more expensive than the AWD versions of its two siblings.

Unlike the EV6 and Ioniq 5 which come with the option of single (2WD) or dual (AWD) motors, the GV60 is only AWD.

Two GV60 variants are available, Lux and Performance Lux priced at $103,384 and $113,384 respectively plus on-road costs.

Styling

Although it’s classed as an SUV, GV60 is very coupe-like in its appearance, streamlined from the bonnet to the chunky rear spoiler and with a short front overhang. A long wheelbase and large haunches make it look larger than its 4.5-metre length.

Unlike most EVs the GV60 comes with a grille. In this case it is a version of the Genesis family Crest Grille and is located in a lower position than in other GV models that have internal combustion engines. This is to make for the different cooling requirements specific to the dedicated high-performance EV platform.

GV60 features a Clamshell Hood that combines the bonnet and fenders for a sleek appearance.

The wide grille-less front is framed by the same double-stacked headlights that are common across the Genesis range.

The GV60 is available with 10 exterior colours, including two in a Matte finish that are only available in the Performance variant.

Interior

Passengers in the rear seat have plenty of legroom although the floor is slightly higher

because the battery pack is under the floor. Also, the sloping rear window may make it a little tight for those travelling there.

There are lots of soft touch materials throughoutwithNappaleatherandsuedeseats.

To make the GV60 more sustainable, various parts are created with eco-friendly and recycled materials. The seats, door armrests, console armrests, and crash pads are made with plant-based leather.

Thereareplentyofstoragespacesthroughout including large bottle holders in all doors and in the floating centre console which can be accessed from both the front and rear.

The seat covers and door centre trims have fabrics made with yarns extracted from recycled PET bottles and fishnets.

Another clever feature is controls that allow the front passenger seat to be adjusted either by the driver or rear passengers.

Powertrain

The GV60 Lux has combined power of 234 kW, 74 kW from the front motor and 160 kW from the rear together with 605 Nm of torque.

The GV60 Performance Lux steps up to 360 kW, 180W at both front and rear and 700 Nm of torque.

Bothvariantsfeaturea77.4kWhLithium-ion batterywhichprovideadrivingrangeof470km (WLTP) per charge for the base model and 466km(WLTP)perchargeforthePerformance variant.

Transmission in our GV60 Lux test car is to all four wheels through what you could call a single-speed automatic transmission.

Safety

Standard safety features start with 10 airbags including a rollover-resistant curtain ‘bags, advanced ABS brakes and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go function.

Other features include Lane Keeping Assist, High Beam Assist, Driver Attention Warning, Automatic Collision Notification, Forward Collision Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist, Safe Exit Assist, Intelligent Speed Limit Assist, and Advanced Rear Occupant Alert.

Infotainment

The GV60 is the first Genesis model to combine

the instrument clusters and navigation into a panoramic display where the content is connected throughout in clusters, navigation and head up display.

Both the HD multimedia touch screen display and the digital instrument cluster are 12.3-inch units.

Audio is through a premium 17-speaker Bang & Olufsen system with a sound control interface to provide a choice of different sound mixes including Relax, Energetic, Bright and Warm.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both wired.

Driving

Entry into the GV60 is helped by a sensor within the key fob that automatically pops up the door handles when the driver approaches the vehicle.

In addition, the Genesis Face Connect feature allows the driver to lock or unlock the car without a key. Drivers only need to touch the door handle and show their face to the camera on the B-pillar. The feature can register two faces.

Fingerprint Authentication System allows

drivers to start and drive the car without a key.

The previous GV60 models didn’t have traditional side mirrors but instead used cameras that transmitted images to small screens inside the doors. We’ve tested this in previous reviews and found it distracting at times because the screen on the driver’s door was too close.

Fortunately, the MY2024 upgrade added the option of including normal side mirrors and these were fitted to our test vehicle. The screens are still there but we basically ignored them throughout our test.

Rear vision is poor with the raked window partially blocked by a large rear spoiler and rear seat headrests.

There are three drive modes to choose from, Eco, Normal and Sport. The Eco setting makes the GV60 accelerate relatively gently. The Normal mode is the one we used for most of our driving as we feel that’s what most owners would do.

The Sport mode makes it go like a rocket and provides instant grunt to help you overtake in a short space when you see a chance to get past a slower car during country driving. Or you can simply use it just for the fun it provides.

The i-PEDAL regenerative braking mode enables a single-pedal driving strategy that allows acceleration, deceleration and stopping of the vehicle using only the accelerator

Summing up

At $100k-plus the Genesis GV60 is not cheap, especially from a relatively new brand, however it is a most impressive vehicle that’s stylish inside and out, combining excellent performance with all the latest in technology. Genesis provides an outstanding ownership program with a five-year unlimited distance warranty, plus in the GV60 an eight-year warranted for eight year/160,000km cover on the battery.

There’s also five years of free roadside assistance as well as free servicing for the same period with service intervals of 12 months or 15,000 kilometres. The dealership will collect and return the car when it is to be serviced or provide a loan car. Roadside assistance extends to 10 years if the car is always serviced by a Genesis dealer.

EV buyers also get the option of a five-year Chargefox membership or a free homecharger.

The Genesis GV60 is stylish inside and out.

(Pictures: Supplied)

Grubbers win Battle of the Bridge

Ocean Grove defeated Barwon Heads in the E Grade Battle of the Bridge to advance to the grand final this and Voice photographer Ivan Kemp was there.

Kasey McKay with the ball.

Anabelle Sargeant takes the ball in midcourt.

Left: Gracie Stephens and Keely Boswell in sync as the ball spills free. Centre: Keely Boswell and Kyra Clarke battle for possession. Right: Tahnee Allen accepts a pass. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 428236

Millie Wood with the ball.

Kyra Clarke takes a pass under pressure from Kylie Collett.

Ruby Hildebrandt in action.

Emma Barry takes a one-hander.

Grubbers into the grand final

Ocean Grove set up an epic Bellarine Netball League A Grade grand final against Geelong Amateur with a commanding win against Torquay at Leopold on Saturday August 31. Voice photographer Ivan Kemp was there to see it all unfold.

Left: Kiralee Collings played well for Torquay. Centre: Zanna Woods was among Ocean Grove’s best players. Right: Kiralee Collings looks for a way through the Ocean Grove defence. (Ivan Kemp) 428237

Left: Sarah Butler assesses her options. Centre: Elisa Hall (30 goals) shoots a goal under pressure from Georgia Berry. Right: Zanna Woods accepts a pass under pressure from Sarah Butler.

Above: Anna Smith looks for a passing option. Right: Bec O’Neill has the ball knocked away by Sophie Ritchie-Crichton.

Rhiannon Whitson runs the ball out of defence.

Emily Moroney gets the ball moving.

Above: Georgia Ryan hands the ball off. Right: Rhiannon Whitson and Rhian Moresi compete under the net.

Division 2 girls get the job done

Voice photographer Ivan Kemp saw the Ocean Grove 17 & Under Division 2 side progress through to the grand final against Geelong Amateur with a six-goal win against Torquay on the weekend.

Left: Eva Lake picks up a loose ball. Centre: Betty Blackley looks to pass. Right: Molly Leith was one of Torquay’s best. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 428901

Gracie Ritchie and Eva Lake contest the ball.

Olivia Grogan and Molly Leith contest a ball.

Charlotte Heenan leaps to take a pass.

Bella Mawson takes the ball out of defence.

Ava Verhagen shoots a goal.

Annika Willis was one of Ocean Grove’s best players.

Ruby Kempton chases down a loose ball.

Gun mid wins Ash Medal

By Justin Flynn

Star Torquay midfielder Matthew Boag won his first Les Ash Medal on Wednesday night.

Boag crossed over to the Tigers from Newtown & Chilwell this season and won with 26 votes from Anglesea playing coach Jordan Keras on 20.

Equal third on 16 votes was Drysdale young gun Luke Preece and Geelong Amateur pair Harry Kershaw and Riley Ferguson.

Triple premiership Queenscliff star Jayden Durran won the reserves Don Cole Medal with 18 votes from Drysdale’s Josh Hopgood one vote behind.

EqualthirdwereGeelongAmateurduoRiley Mattner and Cody Diana on 16 votes.

Torquay’s Kiralee Collings and Newcomb’s Jessica Duke shared the A Grade netball medal with 27 votes each while Geelong Amateur pair Darcy McFarlane and Ruby Watson were runners-up one vote behind. Queenscliff shooterKaitlinGladmanwasthirdon20votes.

In B Grade, Ammos’ Lauren Lapsley won with 23 votes from Portarlington’s Grace Boland on 19.

Port’s Emily Hoare and Ocean Grove coach Mel Holmes won the C Grade medal on 23 votes with Tina Birch taking out the D Grade award on 16 votes with four players tying for second on 15.

Ocean Grove’s Annabelle Sargeant won E Grade on 21 votes from Queenscliff’s Leah Tate on 20.

The netball Rising Star award was won by Geelong Amateur young gun Louise Shaw.

Storm crowns its new stars

Bellarine Storm held its awards presentation recently, capping off a very successful season. Highlights were the continued development of the Storm’s Youth League Men and State Championship Men, the State Championship Women jumping from Division 1 last season, where they were runners up and reached a preliminary final at their first attempt and the Youth League 2 Women breaking through to become the first Women’s Championship.

State Championship Men

MVP - Kavione Green

Most improved - Nathan Gronbeck Coaches award - Max Kos

Kavione Green or KG as he’s more affectionately known, had an outstanding campaign, posting big scoring and rebounding numbers almost every week and broke several Storm scoring and rebounding records in the course of the year.

KG’s numbers for 2024 make impressive reading with 24.18ppg at a shooting clip of 48.71 percent, whilst he was everywhere on the boards, averaging 12.82 rebounds per game. He is also among the nominees for the State Championship Men League MVP Award for 2024.

Teams of the year

FOOTBALL

Backs: Kyle Polley (Barwon Heads), Ben McNamara (Torquay; captain), Oscar Cooke (Modewarre)

Half-backs: Luke Preece (Drysdale), Noah McGregor-Dawson (Anglesea), Matt Farrelly (Modewarre)

Centres: Lachie Smith (Anglesea), Jordan Keras (Anglesea), Riley Ferguson (Geelong Amateur)

Half-forwards: James Breust (Drysdale), Patrick Dowling (Geelong Amateur), Josh Finch (Modewarre)

Forwards: Mitch McGuire (Drysdale), Connor Joseph (Modewarre), Jack Duke (Newcomb)

Followers: Matt Piggott (Drysdale), Matthew Boag (Torquay), Riley Stuhldreier (Barwon Heads)

Rettstatt.

State Championship Women

MVP - Bridgette Rettstatt

Most improved - Olivia Virt Coaches award - Charlotte Armstrong

BridgetteRettstatthasbeenamajoraddition to the Storm State Championship Women’s roster. In terms of stats, Bridgette averaged 17.36ppg at a very nice 51.94 percent shooting and dominated the rebounding, averaging 13 per game and is one of three Storm Women in the running for League MVP honours on September 14.

Bellarine Storm’s Youth League 2 Women’s MVP Lucy Howard.

Interchange: Baxter Mensch (Torquay), Blake Sutterby (Geelong Amateur), Teia Miles (Portarlington), Jarrod Stafford (Newcomb)

Coach: Dom Gleeson (Torquay)

Netball team of the year

NETBALL

Defenders: Keisha Guilmartin (Geelong Amateur, captain), Jessica Duke (Newcomb), Georgia Berry (Ocean Grove)

Midcourters: Georgia Duncan (Geelong Amateur), Lauren Berridge (Torquay), Emily Moroney (Ocean Grove), Kiralee Collings (Torquay)

Goalers: Kaitlin Gladman (Queenscliff), Ruby Watson (Geelong Amateur), Carly Sanders (Newcomb).

Coach: Mel Savage (Geelong Amateur)

Youth League 2 Men

MVP - Mitch Smith

Most improved - Ashton Lantzke Coaches award - Levi Rickard

Mitch Smith was the backbone and key playmaker for the Youth League 2 Men. He was the number one scorer for the team averaging 17.63ppg at a shooting percentage of 46 percent and also averaged 5.16 rebounds per game. Those numbers saw him finish just one spot out of the top 10 for the League in 2024.

Youth League 2 Women2024 Championship Winners

MVP - Lucy Howard

Most improved - Sophie Tattersall Coaches award - Sienna Quinlan

Alocalproduct,LucyHowardisarisingstarof theStorm,havingspenttimeinboththeYouth League 2 Women and State Championship Women across the season. Numbers wise, Lucy was a vital cog in the Championship winning Youth League 2 Women’s team. Across 2024, she averaged 17.47ppg at 44.12 percent and averaged 9.63 rebounds per game and proved her value in the Championship game, setting the tone in the first term with 13 points and being awarded the MVP of the Championship game.

Grove goes four from four

LOCAL TENNIS

Donna Schoenmaekers

Geelong Lawn was best represented in Tennis Geelong’s Junior Winter Pennant grand finals with seven teams fighting it out with three of them successful.

The club were guaranteed a flag in 2 Boys with teams pitted against each other, and Black eventual one-game winners over White.

1 Girls continued their winning streak over minor Premiers Barwon Heads winning 4-2 while 2 Girls scored their first win over Western Heights Uniting by just two games to claim the premiership.

Ocean Grove went four for four, the best success rate for the day. Timothe Garnier and Jack Kavenagh proved too strong in the singles giving them the win in Premier, Wandana were no match in 3 Boys going down 5-1, the Rays posted their first win over Clifton Springs 4-2 in 8 Boys while Green Ball 3 had a thriller against St Mary’s holding on to win by one game.

Lara also went undefeated in their three outings with Green Ball 2 posting the best win, 5-1 over Barwon Heads, 3 Girls were in a tight one with Clifton Springs Blue with the match tied on sets after the singles, but Lara proved too strong in the doubles, winning the match 4-2.

It was a match for the taking in 7 Boys with All Saints ahead by one game going into the doubles, but with a good win and close loss, Lara finished level on sets but ahead by one game.

Wandana Heights finished in front in two of their four finals, with Green Ball 1 getting over Grovedale 5-1 and 1 Boys turning the tables on Barwon Heads, getting their first win over the minor premiers 4-2.

Drysdale managed two wins in two matches, including the closest of the day. They were tied with Hamlyn Park but one game behind after the singles, then tied on sets and games after the doubles forcing the match to a seventh set. Patrick Lonegran and Lewis Kilpatrick sealed the match for Drysdale with a 6-4 win in the decider.

4 Girls had a slightly easier time of it, winning 4-2 over Geelong Lawn.

Point Lonsdale consolidated their extra set win last week in 6 Boys when they took an early 3-0 lead against Hamlyn Park, before eventually winning 5-1, in their one final for the day.

Highton also had one final for the day, and made the most of it in 5 Boys. They were neck and neck with Geelong Lawn all day with each team taking a set 6-4, then Highton ahead by a game at the end of the singles. Highton managed a closer loss and better win in the doubles, running out winners with the sets level but ahead by three games.

Point Lonsdale: Lara Epstein, Lachy Gaylard, Finn Costello and Tom May. Absent: Leah McCurry. (Supplied)

Matthew Boag.

Bellarine Storm’s State Championship Men’s MVP Kavione Green and City of Greater Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan.

Bellarine Storm’s State Championship Women’s MVP Bridgette

Bellarine Storm’s Youth League 2 Men’s MVP Mitch Smith. (Pictures: Mark Brunger)

Skippers excited for big game

By Justin Flynn

Tomorrow’s Bellarine Netball League A Grade grand final stands out for one main reasonabsolute star power all over the court.

Geelong Amateur and Ocean Grove are absolutely laden with talent with several high-profile match-ups on offer for the big game.

Onematch-upthatmightbeflyingunderthe radar somewhat will be between Ocean Grove captain Emily Moroney and Ammos’ wing defence Romy Harwood.

“She’s very athletic and flighty and great at taking intercepts,” wing attack Moroney said.

“That’s just something I need to be cautious of and making sure I’m using my body and speed where I can. We both know each other, and that’s the thing, when you’ve played the sameteaminthegrandfinalforafewyearsina row and played each other throughout the year, there’s a lot of match-ups that we’re all really familiar with.”

Ammos have not tasted defeat this season, but Moroney said her side has “full belief that we can beat them on Saturday”.

“We just have to play a full 60-minute game,” she said.

“I think that is the key to winning a grand final. You can’t play three good quarters and one off quarter. You have to play a full 60 minutes of your best netball.”

Moroney said Ammos’ consistency across the court was their greatest strength.

“They have a full range of 10 players who are all great players,” she said.

“Their ability to kind of control their game and their patience in attack is something that they’re pretty good at. So it’ll be about creating lots of pressure down that attacking end to force some uncharacteristic errors I think.”

Moroney said her side was “super excited” about the game and that getting off to a good start was important.

“Getting a good start will be crucial on Saturday to set us up for the game and allow

that buffer because there will be changes in momentum throughout,” she said.

“That’s pretty normal, but it’s great to have a good start to set yourself up.”

GeelongAmateurskipperKeishaGuilmartin did not shy away from wanting redemption for last year’s result when her undefeated side lost to the Grubbers in the decider.

“It is a bit of redemption (and) I think a lot of us who played last year, which is most of the team actually, have the fire in the belly to get the job done this year,” she said.

“I think it’s still quite fresh last year that feeling when we lost and we certainly don’t

want to go through that again. So it’s been a nice little bit of motivation coming into the finals series this year and knowing that we’ve got what it takes to get it done. We just need to actually put our method into action.”

Guilmartin’s tussle as goalkeeper with Grove goalshooter Bec O’Neill shapes as a key to unlocking this game. O’Neill came out of retirement midseason.

“Gaining Bec back, I don’t know how they managed to do that, but that was pretty awesome,” Guilmartin said. “She’s obviously a very accurate goaler. She’s got nice height in there and plays a beautiful game of netball.”

Grand finals

13 & UNDER DIVISION 1: Queenscliff vs Torquay at 9.15am.

13 & UNDER DIVISION 2: Torquay vs Ocean Grove at 8am.

15 & UNDER DIVISION 1:

Geelong Amateur vs Portarlington at 11.45am.

15 & UNDER DIVISION 2: Torquay vs Geelong Amateur at 8am.

17 & UNDER DIVISION 1: Portarlington vs Geelong Amateur at 9.15am.

17 & UNDER DIVISION 2:

Geelong Amateur vs Ocean Grove at 1.05pm.

19 & UNDER: Drysdale vs Barwon Heads at 10.30am.

E GRADE: Geelong Amateur vs Ocean Grove at 2.05pm.

D GRADE: Ocean Grove vs Geelong Amateur at 10.30am .

C GRADE: Ocean Grove vs Modewarre at 11.45am.

B GRADE: Geelong Amateur vs Torquay at 1.05pm.

A GRADE: Geelong Amateur vs Ocean Grove at 3.15pm.

Guilmartin said there is a strong sense of trust in each other’s games at Ammos.

“I think you‘ve got to trust the process,” she said.

“We’ve got a really good strategy in place this year and if we just trust that we do what we should do and what we want to do, I feel like we should be fine.

“We feel very confident about our game plan and the way we tackle things on the court. There’s just, not an arrogant but, a nice sense of confidence amongst the team.”

All grand finals are at Leopold Memorial Reserve on Saturday September 7.

Surf Coast neighbours battle for Bellarine flag

By Justin Flynn

In a season of upsets and constant ladder changes, it seems fitting that tomorrow’s Bellarine Football League grand final will feature a tried and tested finals warrior and a new kid on the block.

Torquay has played in the past three grand finals while Anglesea’s last appearance was back in 1999 when it defeated Ocean Grove by 10 points.

The Tigers have only been beaten twice this season, but one of those was in the second semi-final against their grand final opponents.

Coach Dom Gleeson said his side wasn’t at its best a fortnight ago, but also paid credit to the Roos.

“I think we learned a lot about ourselves,” he said. “I think the first question that people ask all the time is ‘what happened?’. The facts are we played a really good side in really good form and it only takes a couple of players to be down and then you lose a game and that’s what I love about our competition. Now, more than ever, it’s quite challenging from week to week.”

Torquay’s preliminary final win against Drysdale was built on the back of a blistering eight-goal second quarter, but also from a solid defensive effort in the third term.

“We trained for it,” Gleeson said.

“Trying to be able to defend, I thought the boys for the most part did that. Drysdale have always had the ability to score, you know they’re going to score at some stage in thegame.Justhowdoyoustopthemomentum? And I thought the group did it really well

on the weekend.”

One thing that could count in Torquay’s favour tomorrow is grand final experience.

“I’dliketothinkso,”Gleesonsaid.“Contrary to what people might think, we’re still a young group. These 22- (and) 23-year-olds that have been around the club for a long time. We’ve played them since they were kids and now they’re becoming leaders within themselves.

“It’s a big day for a young group. It’s a big day for a group that committed to each other over two years ago that they were going to stay with each other and try and create something special and I think they’ve done that. I think the experience certainly helps.

Gleeson said both sides match up pretty evenly.

“I feel like we’re pretty equal, so it’s whoever can pull off their game plans best and bring their A game,” he said.

“We’ve got a lot of respect for Anglesea, the club down the road that we have had some tussleswith.It’snosurprisetomethatAnglesea are in the grand final.”

While Anglesea might not be laden with grand final familiarity, the town has been buzzing for two weeks after earning a direct path into the decider.

Coach Jordan Keras said the week off was welcome.

“A few boys are ironing out some bruises and bumps and I think they’ll be much better off for the two big finals in a row,” he said.

“It’s hard to go four finals in a row, so (I was) happy to have one off. Some people don’t get an opportunity to play in a grand final in their

career and we get an opportunity now and hopefully we can get one more (win) - the one that matters.”

Keras said, although pleasing, the second semi-final win was not perfect.

“Reviewing the game we actually thought we have a fair bit to improve on,” he said.

“We took away some of their strengths, but we definitely feel like we’ve got a bit to go. We could probably have two or three really experienced players come in, too.

“I don’t think there’s any one position that will win it. I think all phases of the game are going to be really important, our forwards, mids and our backs and how well we can all execute that role together and how well we can connect with each other. So the side that connects the best with each other through all phases of the game will win it. I think it’s going to be a pretty decent match.”

Anglesea will play Torquay at Leopold on Saturday September 7 starting at 2pm. Torquay will play Geelong Amateur in the reserves grand final beginning at 11.30am and Grovedale takes on Lara in the Under 18 Division 2 decider at 9.15am.

Keisha Guilmartin and Emily Moroney are hoping they will have both hands on the premiership cup.

(Ivan Kemp) 428651_10

Anglesea captain James Carr and Torquay skipper James Darke. (Ivan Kemp) 428651_01

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Finals Fever at Armstrong Green

The ‘One Day in September’ is fast approaching, and what better way to celebrate than by getting together and being social.

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DATE Wednesday, September 25, 2024

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