The Blessing of the Animals and All Wildlife is back this Sunday at Queenscliff Uniting Church to celebrate all creatures, great and small.
The annual event will be held on the lawn outside of the church on October 6, featuring songs and prayers for the region’s pets and wildlife.
Uniting Queenscliff minister Reverend Greg Crowe said everyone, regardless of their religious beliefs, was welcome to attend the blessing and celebrate all animals.
“We’re acknowledging the importance of animals, particularly our pets as companions, and how important they are in times of joy and sadness,” he said.
“It’s not about being Christian or religious, it’s a deeper spirituality about the connection of all things...and the human experience that we want to celebrate.”
Check out page 7 for the full story.
Whale carcass removed
By Justin Flynn
The Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action began removing a washed up whale carcass from Thirteenth Beach yesterday (Thursday October 3).
The 14 metre long, 16 tonne fin whale was found at the beach on September 12 and DEECA said last week that it intended to let the mammal decompose naturally, a process it said could take months.
But DEECA said on Wednesday that the situation had changed.
“Specialised biohazard equipment will be used to manage the remains. Areas impacted will be cleaned up including scraping a top layer of sand.
“Precautions will be taken to ensure machinery and vehicles do not impact hooded plovers which may be present on the beach, including barriers, spotters and Conservation Regulator staff on site.
“DEECA will work with SLSV and VFA to determine when it is appropriate to remove the water safety advice message on Vic Emergency.
“The remains have shifted west along the beach to a more accessible location and the carcass has decomposed to a point we can now safely remove it,” it said ahead of the operation on Wednesday afternoon.
This will include SLSV drone flights after the carcass is removed.”
Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant said it had been a “complex” issue.
Increased shark activity was reported in the area prompting authorities to issue a no-go warning for surfers and swimmers.
“I have strongly advocated for the views of the community to the relevant authorities, with the primary concern being the safety of our beaches and the ongoing risks associated with the whale decomposing for an extended period of time,” she said. “Our beaches are much loved by locals and tourists, and as we come into our busiest season for the Bellarine, I understand
the community, and small businesses, need every chance to thrive.”
A petition, started by Sarah Quincey, urging authorities to remove the carcass had attracted more than 2400 signatures.
“What an effort, thank you to everyone one of you who supported this, and wrote letters - it was absolutely a group effort,” she said.
“I’d like to pay my respects to the poor deceased whale - what was once a magical, beautiful whale that is to be respected and protected. Hopefully, strategies/actions can be put into place so DEECA can act quickly on these occurrences if they happen in the future for the safety of the community.”
Reverend Greg Crowe with his dog Anouk at the Queenscliff Uniting Church. (Ivan Kemp) 434986_02
No more seismic blasting worries
By Jena Carr
Ocean Grove, Torquay and other coastal communities have won the fight against a proposed seismic blasting project in the Otway Basin.
Energy data and intelligence company TGS withdrew its application for the project on Thursday, September 26, following community rallies, marches, paddle outs and other events. Otway Coastal Environment Action Network (OCEAN) campaigner Mitch Pope said it was “pretty surreal” to hear that TGS
waswithdrawingitsapplicationfortheproject.
“By the community and people coming together, we created that power to stand up for ourcoastlineandoceansandprotecttheplaces we love,” he said. “It’s been over two years since TGS first announced their plans of what was originally 7.7 million hectares of an area that they planned to seismic blast to search for gas.
“We love seeing whales migrate past our shoresinOceanGroveeveryyear.That(seismic blasting) would have impacted those species and people being able to see them.
“It shows that communities down here don’t
wantnewfossilfuelprojectsinouroceans,and we hope that companies looking to do that in the future, will understand what they’re up against.”
The National Offshore Petroleum Safety and Environmental Management Authority knocked back the project’s environmental plan multiple times for failing to consult with affected stakeholders and not considering the impacts on marine life.
Surfrider Foundation Surf Coast branch secretary Darren Noyes-Brown said the withdrawal showed the community’s power
Teachers recognised for long service
Two long-serving Bellarine teachers are being recognisedfortheirdedicationtotheirschools, students and families.
St Leonards Primary School’s Christine Layley celebrated 45 years of teaching with a Recognition of Service to Victorian Education honour.
Ms Layley has worked with the St Leonards Primary School for 10 years and said the honour was a great way to mark the teaching milestone before her retirement.
“Being the eldest of a large family, you naturally look out for others, and... I always knew that I wanted to be a teacher,” she said.
“Sometimes we (teachers) don’t always receivepositiverecognition,whichishumbling but a nice milestone to mark.
“InalltheschoolsthatI’veworkedin,it’sthat collaborative spirit and approach to doing the best thing for the students and their families that I love the most.
“I have decided that after this milestone, that at the end of the year I’ll leave. So, it’s been a goodopportunityformetoreflectonmycareer and leave on a positive note.”
Leopold Primary School’s Cheryl Hair was also recognised for her 40 years of service to public education during the honour.
Minister for Education Ben Carroll said 275 schoolstaffstatewidewerebeinghonouredthis year for 40, 45, 50 and 55 years of service to public education.
“Long-serving teachers and support staff are the backbone of our education system, and I congratulatethosebeinghonouredthisyearon their well-deserved recognition,” he said.
“I know everyone in Bellarine join us in offering their congratulations to these dedicated professionals, who have spent decades tirelessly supporting our children and young people.”
Jena Carr
and that “incredible wins for the environment don’t happen by themselves”.
“I want to surf on this coastline for the rest of my life, and we want our kids to be able to do the same,” he said. “It’s time we think about permanently protecting pristine places like the Great Ocean Road and the Southern Ocean so our kids don’t have to put up the same fight.
“My community of Torquay had everything toloseifthiswentaheadasitbecameclearTGS wasn’tabletomeeteventhebasicrequirements that would mitigate the impacts of seismic blasting.”
A
new kind of choir
Point Lonsdale’s New Swell Choir is gearing up for its end of year concert, but organisers Teresa Duddy and Ben Talbot-Dunn are keen to see new faces.
Running every Monday night at New HallonKirkStreet,it’salittlebitdifferent to your usual choir.
There is no sheet music, no hymns, no baton tapping. Instead, the 80-odd singers learn pop, indie and folk songs by ear, accompanied by Talbot-Dunn’s electric guitar.
“Ben does the arranging of current songs, often by Australian composers,” Duddy said. “At the end of year concert we’ve got a couple of people from bands in Melbourne, we’re doing their songs so they’re performing as well.
“It’s a different model to the choirs we’ve been in and the ones that we could see were on offer down here.”
Duddy, with a background in opera and musical theatre, and composer Talbot-Dunn formed New Swell at the beginning of 2023, “not knowing if anyone was going to be interested”.
However, interest spread quickly, soon drawing people from Geelong, Portarlington and Jan Juc.
“When we did our concert last year it just had that really lovely feel,” Duddy said. “Kids were doing cartwheels outside, there were local people making pizzas,itwasallthethingsthatI’dhoped a community choir would be.”
She encouraged anyone who was unsure about singing in public to put their fears behind them.
“It’sthatsafetyinnumbersthing,when you have enough people and everyone’s having a good time, it’s going to sound good.”
St Leonards Primary School’s Christine Layley is celebrating 45 years of teaching. (Ivan Kemp) 434924_04
Raising hands for gender parity
By Jena Carr
Geelong could have a more equal council as the largest number of female candidates put their hands up ahead of this year’s elections.
October’s elections will see 23 women running for a spot on the City of Greater Geelong council out of the 51 candidates, 12 more female candidates from the last council election in 2020.
Women in Local Democracy (WILD) convener Jenny Wills said she was glad to see more women standing for council in this year’s election and helping improve gender parity in local government.
“Gender parity would mean that we have
perspectives coming from both men and women to the decision-making table,” she said.
“It (female candidate numbers) has created a climate within the community about the importance of women being there, and I suppose the question is, why they haven’t been there.
“I’m interested in the diversity of women and men who would stand in the future because it’s important that our council moves along this track of being representative of the community.”
The female ward candidates for Geelong councilincludedAletaMoriartyforBarrabool Hills, Angela Carr for Hamlyn Heights, Shona
Mckeen for Leopold, and Kate Lockhart for Murradoc.
Susan Joachim, Emma Sinclair, Teagan Mitchell, and Sian Milton-mcgurk will run for the Charlemont ward, while Melissa Cadwell, Jess Harper, and Mellissa Hutchinson run for the Cheetham ward.
The Deakin ward candidates comprised Sue Cox, Izzy Scherrer and Anastasia Hilton, while Azadeh Doosti, Sarah Hathway and Maddie Slater ran for the Corio wards.
Candidates also included Theresa Slater, Nicole Lynch, and Lorraine Kulic for the You Yangs, Candice Costoso, Emilie Flynn for Kardinia, and Elise Wilkinson and Angela Shearman for the Connewarre wards.
A looking glass into the lizard world
A Drysdale studio is encouraging the participation of people over 55 in the design and creation of glass artworks.
Festival of Glass will host workshops on October 2, 16 and 23 for people to work with glass and make art pieces representing a Glympse of the Lelon (Wathaurong word for lizard) World.
President Mercedes Drummond said it was important to encourage people over 55 to try something new during Positive Ageing Month this October.
“These kinds of programs open up an opportunity in a safe environment to allow them to feel much more confident in being
able to come back into community-based projects,” she said.
“It’s been a very slow process for some of our past members to come back and engage in these environments due to the isolation and the lack of connectedness as a result of COVID.”
Festival of Glass received a $1000 City of Greater Geelong’s Positive Ageing Grant for its Glympse of the Lelon World project.
“There’ll be members of the association who will be able to assist with the teaching and showing of different techniques,” Ms Drummond said.
“Then it’ll be up to the individuals on
how confident they are as to what elements they will work with as we will have different stations where, in some cases, the glass will already be cut.
“(Itwill)encouragepeopletohaveago,even if they’ve never had an opportunity to do any mosaic work, and gives us the opportunity to showcase our studio and what other activities we run.”
The workshops are free, but people must email festivalofglassdrysdale@gmail.com expressing their interest and the day they wish to attend.
Jena Carr
Queenscliffe Literary Festival, which starts in two weeks, has announced it has sold out its events with Tim Winton, Kaz Cooke and Judith Lucy.
Tickets will also soon sell out to events with bestselling novelist Pip Williams, the Stereo Stories band with literary guests, and canapes with Attica Melbourne chef Ben Shewry.
Popular sessions this year also include lunch with celebrated chef Tony Tan; a discussion about the Indigenous Voice to Parliament, one year on; anti-violence campaigners Rosie Batty and Hanna Assifiri talking about hope; and an event featuring the 2024 Miles Franklin and Stella Prize winner Alexis Wright.
QLF President Pauline Nunan says, “Tim Winton, Kaz Cooke and Judith Lucy are already sold out but there are over 30 other events with tickets still available,” festival president Pauline Nunan said.
“They range across genres and interests from surfing, football and fishing to crime, history, politics and fiction.
“With the festival now in October it’s a beautiful time of year to visit Queenscliff and attend some of the many fascinating sessions available.”
Queenscliffe Literary Festival runs from October 18 to 27, tickets via queeenscliffeliteraryfestival.com.au
Road upgrade progressing
Work on Stage 2 of the Barwon Heads Road Upgrade will begin early next year.
The $250 million project will add extra lanes, upgrade intersections, and build shared walkingandcyclingpathsbetweenCharlemont and Armstrong Creek.
The upgrade will help Barwon Heads Road cater for up to 35,000 daily journeys by 2036.
Early works will begin in early 2025, with major construction expected to begin from late 2025.
“We are commencing works on the second stage of the Barwon Heads Road Upgrade to improve connectivity and safety for all road users,” Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant said.
“Safer, quicker commutes are what people in our rapidly growing region are calling for, so I’m pleased Stage 2 is about to get underway –the upgrades are going to make people’s lives
easier,” Member for Corangamite Libby Coker said.
Planning work, investigations and community feedback helped develop a detailed concept for Stage 2 to upgrade Barwon Heads Road for 4km between Reserve Road, Charlemont,andLakeRoad,ArmstrongCreek. Stage2willextendthebenefitsoftheBarwon Heads Road Upgrade – Stage 1 to improve travel safety, reliability and connectivity for all the road’s users.
Completed six months ahead of schedule in mid-2023, the first stage built new lanes between Settlement Road, Belmont, and Reserve Road, Charlemont.
The first stage also built a bridge over the rail line at Marshall, upgraded key intersections, added new traffic lights, and created 4km of shared paths with street lighting and landscaping.
Paul Chreszczyk, left, Elaine Stow and Mercedes Drummond making glass mosaics. (Ivan Kemp) 433386_07
Learning CPR for Shocktober
Ambulance Victoria (AV) is encouraging people to help improve cardiac arrest survival rates in the Barwon South West region this Shocktober.
AV launched its month-long cardiac arrest awareness campaign on Tuesday, October 1, highlighting the importance of learning CPR and using an automated external defibrillator (AED).
Barwon South West acting regional director Jess McGowan said survival rates decreased by 10 per cent every minute that CPR was delayed during the event of a cardiac arrest.
“Last year, paramedics responded to a record 7,830 cardiac arrest patients but there was also a record amount of bystander intervention,” she said. “Every minute matters in a cardiac arrest, and when a patient receives CPR and a
shockbeforeparamedicsarrive,theirchanceof survival more than doubles.
“Anyone can perform CPR and use an AED, as you don’t need training or to be qualified. If someone is in cardiac arrest and an AED is available, simply open it and follow the verbal instructions.”
Ms McGowan said close to 21 Victorians suffered a cardiac arrest every day, with one in
Flower show returns in full bloom
The flowers are back in bloom for the St George’s Flower Show, a staple in Queenscliff’s history.
The show will return to the Old School Hall on the corner of Hobson and Learmonth Streets on October 5 from 9am to 2pm for its second year after being a regular event from 1905 to the early 1970s.
Save St George’s committee member Di Rule said she looked forward to seeing people admiring the Old School Hall and the St George’s Church.
“Last year people were just amazed at how beautiful the old school hall is and so many
people said they hadn’t been there before,” she said.
“I really want to help preserve those two buildings (the Old School Hall and St George’s Church) because they’re such a beautiful part of the history of Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale.
“I’m really pleased to be able to show people the beautiful old building from the mid 19th century to as many people as possible and encourage them to go and look at the beautiful St George’s.”
Ms Rule said she loved flowers and the garden and that the show would appeal to
many people within the community with its activities, stalls and food.
“This year we’ve got the dog show and that’s running from midday until 2pm, and that’s outside the old church,” she said.
“Inthat,we’vegotthingslikethehandsomest dog, the dog that can wag its tail the best and the dog that looks most like its owner.
“We’ve also got Devonshire teas, which are always popular, the sausage sizzle, ...and a spinningwheelincludedwithlotsofwonderful donations from local traders in the area.”
Jena Carr
10 people expected to survive.
“There are a number of things you can do to help contribute to better cardiac arrest survival rates in Victoria,” she said. “I encourage everyone to sign up as a GoodSAM responder. Its a smartphone app that connects patients in cardiacarrestwithmembersofthecommunity who are willing to start CPR in the critical minutes before paramedics arrive.”
Landcare grants for local schools
yesterday celebrated the achievements of four Bellarine primary schools recognised as part of the Victorian JuniorLandcareandBiodiversityGrants program with up to $5000 awarded to support their projects.
Our Lady Star of the Sea Catholic Primary School was successful in receiving $4994 funding for its Hands up for Biodiversity project: appreciating nature through art; planting and building habitats; observing and caring.
Leopold Primary School was granted $4810 for its Land, Sea and Me project. Queenscliff Primary School was successful in receiving $5000 funding for its Native Indigenous and Biodiversity Garden project and St Leonards Primary School was granted $4,470 for its Land, Sea and Me 2.0 project.
Grants of up to $5000 were awarded for educational activities that engage children conservation and environmental projects that improve and expand habitat for native plants, insects and wildlife.
“These innovative projects showcase the important role our young people play in the Bellarine in protecting local native wildlife and plants into the future –notonlyshapingacleaner,greenerand thriving future for our community, but for all Victorians,” Ms Marchant said.
Since 2018, $3 million has been invested to support more than 47,000 young people undertake on-ground conservation projects and activities.
Since then, these initiatives have achieved incredible results – including 99,000 new indigenous plantings and more than 1000 student excursions to wildlife sanctuaries.
Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant
Save St George’s committee member Di Rule is bringing the St George’s Flower Show back for another year. (Ivan Kemp) 434581_01
Financial incentives for kindergarten teachers and educators.
Giving Victorian children the best start means more qualified teachers and educators are needed across the state.
Get up to $50,000* on top of your salary for positions at a priority service.
Relocation support is also available.
Search for a position with a financial incentive through the Early Childhood Jobs website at vic.gov.au/kinder
Blessing for all animals
By Jena Carr
Uniting Queenscliff is celebrating and acknowledging the importance that animals provide daily.
A Blessing of the Animals and All Wildlife gathering event will be held on the lawn outside of the church on the corner of Hesse and Stokes Street on Sunday, October 6, at 10am.
Uniting Queenscliff minister Reverend Greg Crowe said the event would focus on the “importance of our pets and animals” and was open to everyone regardless of religious beliefs.
“The wellbeing of our environment is dependent on the wellbeing of wildlife and our oceans...and our whole life is interconnected with all creatures,” he said. “There’ll be a point during that morning gathering where we say a blessing for all wildlife, and then anyone who wants to, I’ll say a blessing for their cat, dog, horse, lizard, bird or whatever turns up.
“It’s about having an open and inclusive attitude to all people, creatures and nature and our belief in having a sustainable environment and holistic approach to our wellbeing as humans in life.”
Rev Crowe said the blessing event coincided with the Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi, the Catholic patron saint of pets and animals, on October 4.
“They’re (pets) always there and we take them for granted sometimes, so it’s important to stop and be grateful for them,” he said.
“Being a pet lover myself and having a dog, they’re wonderful companions, and it’s nice to acknowledge how important our pets are to us as companions.
“Animals have quite an instinctive way of knowing how to be with humans, unless they’ve been mistreated, and we know that our own wellbeing is enhanced by our connection to animals.”
Get a taste for arts trail
Bellarine Arts Trail’s headline eventTaste of the Trail Exhibition - is set to be launched on October 19.
Taste of the Trail Exhibition features work from the 90-plus artists who will be participating in this year’s Bellarine Arts Trail.
The exhibition gives visitors an opportunity to see a sample of each artists’ work and plan their arts trail experience.
The Bellarine Arts Trail 2024 takes place on Saturday November 2 and Sunday November 3.
Artists from the Bellarine will be opening their studios and will be at exhibitionvenuesandgalleriesinBarwon Heads, Ocean Grove, Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff to meet visitors, discuss, show and sell their work. The program features artists from across the Bellarine including established professional and emerging artists.
This free, artist led community event is run by volunteers on the Barwon Heads Arts Council with help from artists on the newly established Bellarine Arts Trail Committee.
One of the exhibition’s coordinators Viva Partos said that the exhibition served as “a snapshot of the Bellarine’s incredible artistic talent”.
“The exhibition ignites everyone’s excitement and energy for the Bellarine Arts Trail taking place on Melbourne Cup weekend,” she said.
“It helps them discover new work and plan which artists to visit in their studios and exhibition venues.”
Reverend Greg Crowe with his dog Anouk at the Queenscliff Uniting Church. (Ivan Kemp) 434986_01
Dance for dementia awareness
Residents and staff of Estia Health Leopold put on their best dancing shoes and wore their funkiest disco outfits for a Dance Against Dementia. Voice photographer Ivan Kemp went along to the event on Wednesday, September 25, to capture the joy of dance.
Alfreda Tudroszen (top), Stella Scheiner, Alan Osborne and Ruth Uren get into the party mood.
Darren Blacker on the dance floor, and right, with Josh Poyner and Julie Kapetanios.
Left: Mary Hennessy. Above: Nancy Beaumont and Molly.
(Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 433041
Lynette Smith.
Evasive wood duck avoids camera
I received a message from Lynette, who lives on a few acres in Ocean Grove.
Lynette wanted me to helpher locate a hollow where a pair of wood ducks have been nesting.
We walked around the property where there are some lovely old Bellarine yellow gums with many hollows. We saw the male wood duck fly out of the area a few times, but birds are pretty crafty and clever and never want to reveal their nesting sites to potential predators such as Lynette and myself, so it was not possible to detect exactly which tree the pair were using as a nesting hollow.
When birds are nesting it’s important not to disturb them especially when you know where the nest is, or they may abandon the nest and any hatchlings.
On Lynette’s beautiful property there were many rainbow, musk and purple-crowned lorikeets in the yellow gums. There is also a pair of eastern rosellas nesting in one of her nesting boxes.
I spent a few mornings this week at Geelong Botanic Gardens, as I saw on Facebook that Bellarine locals and bird photographers Robin Spry and Ian Smissen had photographed a male rose robin there.
This bird was so hard to photograph as when I did visit the gardens, I saw it quite regularly, but it was so quick, and loved hanging out high in the tree canopy, where the light was terrible for photography.
On the third morning I went to the GBG.
It was a really dull day, but I did manage a half-decent photo. I also photographed a female rose robin at the gardens. I didn’t see the male and female together at any stage, but who knows, they might even breed in the gardens this spring.
In addition, there were several pink robins and eastern spinebills in the same vicinity as the female rose robin.
I also walked around a farm in Wallington to conduct a ‘Birds on Farms’ survey. I was thrilled to spot the small flock of weebills that
hang around the yellow gums as well as striated pardalotes, a fan-tailed cuckoo, and a pair of wedge-tailed eagles.
Jillian, who owns the property, told me that she thinks that the wedgies are nesting, which is great news.
I received an email from Carole who sat at the heads near Queenscliff and watched a lot of silver gull activity. The gulls were hovering around a seal who was swimming, foraging and fishing.
Despite desperate attempts from the gulls,
Greater Geelong City Council postal election
My council, my vote
An election will be held for Greater Geelong City Council.
Check the mail for your ballot pack
Ballot packs containing voting material will be mailed to enrolled voters from Monday 7 October.
This is a postal election only.
If you do not receive your ballot pack by Tuesday 15 October please visit vec.vic.gov.au to complete the online replacement form, or call 131 832 to arrange a replacement.
Candidates
Candidates who have nominated for election are listed in the ballot packs and at vec.vic.gov.au
A photo and candidate statement will also be included if provided by candidates. Responses to a candidate questionnaire, if provided, are available at vec.vic.gov.au
How to vote correctly
You must complete your ballot paper correctly for your vote to count. Put the number 1 in the box next to the candidate you want to see elected, then number all the other boxes in order of your choice. You must number every box and only use each number once.
How to return your ballot pack
only the seal managed a meal. This is a frequent event as yesterday we saw a similar attempt from a Pacific gull that was interested in a fish meal but didn’t even get a bite. The seal was happy on both days, but there were many disappointed birds.
I’m off to Hawaii, Memphis and New Orleans for the next few weeks, and will report in from the USA.
I’m hoping to spot some seabirds in Hawaii, and I remember last time I went there I saw my first great frigatebird. Time will tell.
Put your completed ballot paper in the ballot paper envelope, complete the declaration, then post it ASAP using the reply-paid envelope provided, or hand deliver it during election office hours to: 403 Moorabool Street South Geelong
Voting is compulsory
Voting is compulsory for all voters who were enrolled at 4 pm on Wednesday 7 August. This includes state-enrolled and council-enrolled voters.
If you don’t vote and don’t have a valid excuse, you may be fined.
Your completed ballot pack must be in the mail or hand delivered by 6 pm Friday 25 October.
State-enrolled voters can register for free VoterAlert SMS and email reminders at vec.vic.gov.au
Jen’s male rose robin (above) and female rose robin (top centre) at Geelong Botanic Gardens.
Top right: Jen’s weebill at Wallington. Right: Carole’s gulls hoping for a free meal from a seal at Queenscliff.
Let’s help the hoodies
By Troy Edwards, acting chief executive
We are fortunate to have many beautiful beaches around Geelong and the Bellarine, but it’s important to remember we share them with native wildlife.
One of our most vulnerable beach residents is the endangered hooded plover, a small bird with black, white and brownish-grey feathers and distinctive red rings around its eyes.
From August to April, hooded plovers, affectionately known as ‘hoodies’, nest along the surf beaches of the Bellarine Peninsula, including at Thirteenth Beach, Breamlea Estuary and Ramblers Road Foreshore, Portarlington.
Anadultpairofhoodedploverswilllayupto three eggs in scrapes in the sand and incubate them for four weeks until they hatch.
Once the chicks hatch, they must forage for their own food along the shoreline until they are able to fly, sometimes travelling up to two kilometres in search of food.
With only 12 breeding pairs on the Bellarine, their future survival depends on the mindfulness of the community.
Hoodedploversfacemanythreats,especially from human activity, so it’s essential we’re mindful of our beach behaviour.
People and dogs pose significant risks to Hoodies as their eggs are small and well camouflaged, making it easy for them to be accidentally crushed.
To help protect these birds, seasonal adjustmentshavebeenputinplacesuchas‘dog on-leash’ zones near nesting sites, temporary fencing, educational signage and wooden teepees for chicks.
There are some simple things you can do to help preserve our beach-nesting birds:
• Walk along the water’s edge.
• Adhere to hooded plover nesting signs.
• Give breeding pairs and their nests plenty of space.
• Check and comply with dog regulation signs.
• Put your dog on a leash on dog-friendly beaches when near signed or fenced breeding sites.
For more information, visit geelongaustralia. com.au/hoodedplover
Hooded plovers are often confused with the spur-winged plover, also known as the masked lapwing. Unlike the hooded plover, the spur-winged plover has yellow facial markings and is known to swoop.
Swooping season is here now and is expected to continue until mid-November.
Swooping birds, such as spur-winged plovers
and magpies, are found in both rural and urban areas and swoop to protect their eggs and young.
You can reduce your risk of being swooped by avoiding nesting areas when possible.
If you find yourself in a swooping area, protect your head and eyes and move quickly through the area, but don’t run.
While swooping birds can be frightening, it is uncommon, with less than 10 per cent of magpies engaging in this behaviour.
Please remember that native birds are protected by law, so do not try to scare them or approach their nests.
For more information on swooping birds and to see swooping hotspots, visit wildlife.vic. gov.au/managing-wildlife/swooping-birds
City of Greater Geelong acting chief executive Troy Edwards. (Supplied)
All dressed up ready to play
By Matt Hewson
The self-proclaimed “best dressed dance band” hit Geelong next weeknd as they tour their debut album.
Melbourne seven-piece Gusto Gusto will bring the party vibes when they perform at Beav’s Bar on Saturday, October 11 for the second show of the To The Ocean They Returned tour.
The instrumental outfit’s front line features clarinet,trumpet,violinandaccordion,backed by electric guitar, bass and drums in a raucous mash-up of genres, from contemporary rock and funk to world music elements including latin feels and klezmer-esque polka beats.
Multi-instrumentalist and writer Nick Power,whofoundedthebandin2022,occupies the drum seat for Gusto Gusto.
Hesaidtheintentionfromtheverybeginning of the band was to “get people moving”.
“Coming out of the last set of lockdowns in 2021 I realised that that thing I missed most about playing music was getting together with people and having really joyful experiences,” Power said. “I’d done a lot of solo gigs before
that, a lot of different band projects, and I was like, I want something that’s big and bold, really joyful and optimistic.
“So I pulled together six of my friends and wrote a set of instrumental dance music... This band, all seven people are contributing equally and it makes for a pretty exciting show, just having lots of people jumping up and down on stage.”
The results speak for themselves. Gusto Gusto’s first year included a run of festival shows including Woodford Folk Festival, Cresfest and Cullulleraine Music Festival and a sell-out EP tour of the east coast.
Since then they have released another EP, toured the country multiple times and performed at multiple festivals including the UK’s Glastonbury Festival in June this year, an experience Power said was “absurd… really, really fun”.
Gusto Gusto will be joined by heartfelt local rockers Seal Prince and The Roof Rats, with whom they have shared the stage during previous visits to Geelong.
Visit tickettailor.com/events/gustogusto/ 1355961 for tickets or more information.
Aussie music icon keeps the hits coming
Australian icon Daryl Braithwaite comes to Geelong Arts Centre (GAC) this month for a hit-filled show covering a back catalogue spanning 50 years.
Braithwaite shot to fame as the frontman and lead vocalist for 70s pop band Sherbet, with hits such as Howzat and Summer Love.
But the evergreen performer became best knownforhisworkasasoloartist,particularly his version of Walter Becker (Steely Dan) and Rickie Lee Jones’ The Horses, now an anthem for generations of Australians.
Braithwaite has an undeniable talent for making a song his own, a talent again on display in 2020 when he released Love Songs, an upbeat pop song shortlisted for APRA’s 2021 Song of the Year.
Love Songs was originally penned by Braithwaite’s songwriter friend Michael Fatkin, who urged the singer to get the song in the hands of P!nk manager Roger Davies.
“Roger finally got to hear it and said, ‘It suits you more than P!nk, and she’s not recording at the moment’”, Braithwaite said.
“I was relieved. So, we went ahead and recorded it.”
Daryl
(Supplied)
Audiences warmed to the song immediately, as did the listening public.
“It’s like when I started out with Sherbet in 1970, that’s how you would gauge the reaction to new material,” Braithwaite said.
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“We’d all discuss it after the gig if the song had worked or not. The audience are the best indicator of those things.”
Daryl Braithwaite is at GAC on Sunday, October 27.
Braithwaite comes to GAC on October 27.
Melbourne’s Gusto Gusto bring the party to Beav’s Bar. (Supplied)
Looking for a perfect place to grab a cup of coffee or enjoy a satisfying meal?
Look no further than Groove Cafe, located at 56 Wallington Road. This local favourite is the go-to spot for enjoying a freshly brewed PiazzaD’Orocoffeemadebytalentedbaristas.
Whether you need a morning pick-me-up, an afternoon kick, or an evening cup, Groove Cafe has got you covered.
Featuring Piazza D’Oros Mezzo blend, Groove Cafe serves a medium roast with flavours of milk chocolate, caramel and toffee. If you are yet to find a perfect way to drink your coffee, the baristas on hand will be able to help you to discover your perfect serve.
Groove Cafe isn’t just a coffee haven, it’s your one-stop shop for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
With a menu featuring a wide selection of handmade, locally inspired dishes, it’s easier than ever to enjoy a delicious, hearty meal any day of the week. From quiches and fresh salads to savoury pies, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Plus, Groove Cafe’s budget-friendly pricing ensures you can treat the whole family without breaking the bank, so why not head into the terrace out the back on a summer’s day and bask in the sunshine for your regular sibling catch ups.
We’re excited to share upcoming special offersthatmakediningoutmidweekevenmore convenient. Groove Cafe strives to bring the community closer by offering fantastic deals alongside its warm, welcoming atmosphere.
“We love being part of the Ocean Grove community and we’re committed to serving up great coffee and even better food to our amazing customers,” says Tony Zhang, the proud owner of Groove Cafe.
“There’s nothing quite like seeing our cafe
buzzing with locals enjoying a meal or a cup of coffee.”
Wanttostayinthelooponthelatestspecials, menu updates, and events? Make sure to follow Groove Cafe on Instagram at @the_groove_ cafe. Stay connected and be the first to know about exciting promotions, seasonal offerings, and more.
HeadovertoGrooveCafetodayanddiscover why it’s Ocean Grove’s favourite spot to relax, dine, and savour the best coffee in town.
Groove Cafe’s Tony Zhang proudly serves Piazza D’Oros Mezzo coffee. (Pictures: Supplied)
SENIORS FESTIVAL 2024 EXPLORE. ENGAGE.
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.
Five things to consider when joining a retirement village
Joining a retirement village or other form of seniors housing is a significant decision, marking the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunities. Villages can provide a fun and fulfilling lifestyle, safety and security all within a community environment. However, with so many great options available, it is essential to consider what each village offers to ensure it meets your needs and preferences. Here are five key factors from Aged and Community Care Providers Association (ACCPA) CEO Tom Symondson to keep in mind when selecting the right village for you.
Amenities / facilities
Consider what amenities and facilities are important to you in a retirement village. Many villages offer recreational options such as swimming pools, gyms and bowling greens. On-site services such as hair salons, libraries and cafes can add convenience and enhance the community atmosphere. Identify which amenities are most important to you and ensure the village you choose meets those needs. Many new developments and service models have emerged and grown in popularity, such as Land Lease Communities. These communities are known for their access to premium amenities.
Health and support services
Healthcare and support services may be essential to you as you age. Investigate the care services provided within the village. With the increasing popularity of home care in retirement village settings, it is worth exploring whether the village operates its own home care services or partners with reputable third-party providers to deliver these services. Some villages have co-located facilities with residential aged care. This can
ensure a seamless transition if you care needs change over time. This integrated approach can ensure peace of mind and allows you to age in place.
Financial considerations
A big hurdle for downsizers is the confusion around exit fees, which are standard in retirement villages. The exit fee is simply the ‘lease payment’ for the period of time you spend at the village. Most states in Australia now provide village comparison documents to help prospective residents make informed decisions and compare different villages based on standardised criteria, making it
KG Lawyershas the necessary legal knowledge and experience to ensure your will accurately reflects your wishes.
The family firm on the Bellarine
Are homemade wills legal in Australia?
In short, yes. homemade wills, also known as DIY wills, are legal in Australia. The idea of drafting a will at home may seem appealing due to its cost-effectiveness, however, it also carries risks. The primary concern is the potential for errors, which can lead to disputes, delays, and additional costs in the future. Engaging a lawyer to prepare your will can provide peace of mind. At KG Lawyers, we have the necessary legal knowledge and experience to ensure that your will is valid and accurately reflects your wishes. Our experienced practitioners can provide advice on complex issues specific to your circumstances, which are often overlooked in homemade wills.
We can also review your current will, especially after significant life events such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child, and we can store your will in safe custody for you.
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.
easier to understand the financial obligations and benefits each village offers?. For those considering other options such as land lease communities, Commonwealth rental support may be available to help offset rental fees. It is essential to do thorough research and figure out what is best for you, considering both the financial implications and the lifestyle benefits each option provides.
Sense of community
The sense of community and overall culture of the village can significantly impact your quality of life. Spend time visiting the village, talking to current residents and getting a
feel for the spirit and atmosphere. Research increasingly shows that retirement living is associated with a positive quality of life, bringing significant benefits such as a sense of safety, companionship and access to support. This supportive community environment can enhance emotional well-being and provide a network of friends and neighbours who share similar interests and experiences, making your retirement years more fulfilling and enjoyable.
Accreditation
Accreditation is a crucial factor in evaluating the quality of a village. It not only ensures compliance with industry standards but also highlights areas for continuous improvement. The Australian Retirement Village Accreditation Scheme (ARVAS) is a comprehensive accreditation program that assesses various aspects of village operations, including governance, communication, corporate systems and service delivery. Achieving ARVAS accreditation indicates that a village is committed to maintaining high standards and prioritising resident well-being. When choosing a retirement village, consider its ARVAS accreditation status, as it reflects the village’s dedication to providing a high-quality, supportive and well-managed living environment?.
Choosing the right retirement village or seniors housing option involves careful consideration of various factors to ensure it aligns with your lifestyle, health needs, financial situation, accommodation preferences and social desires. Everyone is different, so there is no wrong or right answer - what works for one person may not work for another
WILLS & POWER OF ATTORNEY
SENIORS FESTIVAL 2024 EXPLORE. ENGAGE.
Aged care that feels like home
We understand that as you get older, it can become harder to do things on your own.
Homestyle Aged Care provides a quality of careandlifethatisthenextbestthingtoliving in your own home.
For over 30 years, Homestyle has provided permanent and respite services across all our 10 high-quality, purpose-built homes conveniently located in Melbourne and Geelong. We believe in enhancing the quality of life for all residents to satisfy the changing needs offering our core philosophy of promoting independence while fostering a caring homely environment, making residents the focus of everything we do.
We are committed to ensuring residents continue to live outstanding lives through our lifestyle and care services available. Our professional and dedicated nursing team are on site 24 hours a day providing clinical care
that supports independence and freedom of choice meeting immediate and long-term needs of residents.
Our lifestyle team operate a full tailored seven-day innovative program providing a range of stimulating and engaging activities to maintain diverse social engagement ranging from morning/afternoon teas, arts and crafts, resident walks, games and quizzes, guest speakers and entertainers and much more.
Homestylehomesalsoprovideexcellentcare exclusively with people living with dementia with a dedicated memory support unit.
If you or your loved one are looking for care in Geelong, and would like to book a tour for Sea Views Manor in Ocean Grove, Kensington Grange in Leopold or Belmont Grange in Grovedale, visit homestyleagedcare.com.au or call 1300 104 663.
Learning from our clients
Providing the best support to people within theirhomesisamessagethatJustBetterCare’s staff live by.
Support worker Sara Furness said Just Better Care treated its staff and clients with the utmost respect as one of Australia’s largest providers of in-home aged care and disability support services.
“Every one of our clients are absolutely amazing individuals. I learn every day from them through conversations,” she said.
“Our care allows our clients to keep their independence and enables them to stay home.
It also allows them to be self-supported in a way, but when it becomes necessary, we’re there to help.
“Just Better Care means supporting people within their home space and creating an environment where they feel comfortable.”
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.
For over 30 years Homestyle
Homestyle Aged Care honors each resident’s unique life journey, striving to continue stimulating memories and fostering
Seniors living with dementia can benefit from slow and calming activities to soothe their nerves.
SENIORS FESTIVAL 2024
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.
Ensuringhekeepsup-to-datewiththelatest dental prosthetist technologies, Mr Demko focuses on utilising a variety of systems to integrate new practises into his denture work at the clinic.
Aspartofitscareandqualityfocusedservice,
The clinic’s new location, Mr Demko said, is a reflection of hard work and commitment to provide an environment to give his clients the very best in dental prosthetics. He said it wouldn’t have been possible without ongoingsupportfromthecommunity and clients.
Committed to providing a highly personalised service, the team at Affordable Denture Clinic can help you smile again.
Appointments can be made online at www.afordabledentureclinic.com.au
Jason Demko with patient Eddie Fraser.
Inset: Inside the clinic.
(Pictures: Ivan Kemp)
Safety first at Uniting AgeWell, just ask Percy and Ruby SENIORS FESTIVAL
Percy Pyne laughs that if he was a cat, he would have used up his nine lives long ago.
He loved every day of his 30-year-career as a supervisor at the local council for the Otways but admits there were many hair-raising moments. Like when a tree fell on top of his car, how he narrowly missed being hit by a landslide and how he had to avoid kangaroos and emus leaping in front of his vehicle.
“We’d get call-outs at night during storms to say there were trees blocking roads,” explains Percy.
“We had to move quickly to keep the public safe.”
The years of putting safety first remain ingrained. It comes as no surprise that Percy, 94, and his wife, Ruby, 90, apply the same rules to living safely, independently and well in their Drysdale home of the last 27 years.
Both have a government-funded home care package through Uniting AgeWell and receive help around the home and garden. Percy accesses podiatry and physiotherapy along with a range of other services and supports for the couple.
Ruby loves reading and still does a bit of sewing. Percy, who was president and then treasurer of Apollo Bay Golf Club for many years, loves watching sport on TV.
They recently attended a sumptuous mid-winterchristmaslunchhostedbyUniting AgeWell for Barwon Home Care clients.
“There was roast chicken, lamb and beef and absolutely wonderful sweets,” says Percy. “They treated us like lords and ladies.”
It was also a chance to chat to other home care clients – a wonderful reaffirmation that you can live independently at home with just a little extra help.
Percy and Ruby, who have been married for
69 years, love spending time with their huge family of four sons, grandchildren and greatgrandchildren.
“We are blessed to have so much happiness
and joy in our lives,” says Ruby. They are also delighted to be part of the Uniting AgeWell family.
“They do a marvellous job,” says Percy.
If you are interested in learning more about home care packages with Uniting AgeWell, call 1300 783 435 or visit unitingagewell. org/our-services/home-care
Help at home
Get assistance with personal and clinical care, household chores, assistive technology and transport
Community support and wellbeing
Remain connected with social groups, outings, and carer services
Independent living
Enjoy an independent living experience at Costa Court Serviced Apartments in Belmont
Residential care
Specialist 24/7 care and support, including dementia and palliative care and respite stays, at the safe and caring Kalkee Community, Nangatta in Belmont
Call the Uniting AgeWell team today to find out how we can support you to live well with choice, independence and peace of mind as you age.
Percy and Ruby Pyne have lived safely, independently and well in their Drysdale home of the last 27 years with the help of Uniting AgeWell. (Supplied)
SENIORS FESTIVAL 2024 EXPLORE.
Happier ageing with Nurse Next Door home care services
In the heart of Geelong, Nurse Next Door Home Care Services is transforming how residents experience in-home care through the Power of Happier Ageing - a philosophy of care centred on maintaining Positivity, Possibility and Purpose, enriching life in meaningful ways.
Leading this Bold Pink Team is Kristy Kayler-Thomson, a registered nurse with over 18 years of experience, driven by her passion for ensuring people can continue to live in their own home, on their own terms, regardless of age or ability.
Kristy’s journey was inspired by a simple belief: small acts of kindness can have profound effects on a person’s quality of life.
“Our core purpose of Making Lives Better means going beyond standard care to bring moments of happiness to those we support, from offering to paint a client’s nails to helping them rediscover a lost hobby,“ Kristy shares.
One touching story involves a client who had suffered a stroke, losing the ability to enjoy her favourite activity - cross-stitching. Refusing to let this passion slip away, Kristy and her team adapted the task by creating larger, more manageable patterns for her. This small adjustment brought back a sense of fulfilment and joy, reminding her of what she loved most.
Kristy’s vision for a better aged care model was strongly influenced by her personal experiences during the pandemic. Her grandparents, isolated in a nursing home, experienced a decline in health that broke Kristy’s heart.
“My grandparents wanted to stay at home, but there simply weren’t the resources or knowledge available to support them,“ she recalls.
Kayler-Thomson is a registered nurse with over 18 years of experience.
This experience solidified her commitment to providing high-quality in-home care, allowing people in her local community to stay in familiar surroundings while being supported in the best possible way.
The foundation of Nurse Next Door’s Happier Ageing model lies in helping clients reconnect with what brings them joy.
“We always ask, ‘What did you love doing that you no longer do?’ and then we work to bring that joy back into their lives,“ Kristy explains.
This personalised support provides a sense of purpose, helping clients live fully at any stage of life.
Nurse Next Door Geelong provides a full spectrum of services including dementia and Alzheimer’s care, assistance with daily living activities, nursing care, and companionship care, to name a few, all designed to meet each client’s unique needs. By delivering these services, the team ensures that ageing in place remains a viable and happy option for many individuals.
As Nurse Next Door continues to grow in the community, the impact of their Happier Ageing approach is clear.
Kristy and her team aren’t just delivering care; they’re nurturing lives and bringing back the things that make life worth living.
If you, or someone you know, needs care Nurse Next Door Home Care Services are open 24/7 simply call 1300 100 247 or visit nursenextdoor.com.au for more information.
Kristy
Lazarus Lewis busking.
Left to right: Brianna Bartley; Sandra Quadrio with her son Joel; Robyn Booth and Steve Minutoli; Scott Dixon and Jason Doherty. Above, centre right: Colleen Hennessy. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 434886
Above: Steve Burchett with his children Genevieve, Charlie and Harry; Molly and Reece Martin with their children Zephyr and Amber.
Why the iconic ‘chicken parma’ is an Aussie favourite
The chicken parmigiana, often affectionately called“chickenparma”or“parmi”inAustralia, is a beloved staple of Australian pub culture. Its widespread popularity across the country is no accident, as it has become a symbol of comfort food, deeply rooted in both social and culinary traditions. There are several reasons for the chicken parmigiana’s enduring appeal in Australia, ranging from its Italian origins to its association with Australian pub culture, as well as its versatility and flavor profile.
Italian influence on Australian cuisine
Australia has a rich history of Italian immigration, particularly after World War II, whichhasleftanindeliblemarkonthecountry’s food culture. Italian cuisine introduced a wide variety of dishes that have since become mainstays in Australian dining, such as pizza, pasta, and of course, chicken parmigiana.
Although chicken parmigiana originated as an Italian-American dish based on the traditional Italian melanzane alla parmigiana (eggplant parmesan), Australians have embraced the dish with enthusiasm. The addition of chicken, instead of eggplant, caters to the Australian preference for heartier, meat-based meals. The dish blends the richness of Italian cuisine with the meat-forward preferences of many Australians, making it a natural hit.
Pub culture and social dining
One of the most significant factors behind the chicken parma’s popularity is its deep association with Australian pub culture. Australian pubs are more than just places to drink; they are community hubs where people come together to socialise, watch sports, and enjoy hearty, affordable meals. The chicken parma has become a quintessential pub meal, beloved for its generous portion size,
familiar flavors, and ability to satisfy a wide range of tastes. In pubs, the chicken parma is often served as part of a “parma night”, a weekly event where pubs offer discounted or special versions of the dish. This tradition has turned eating chicken parma into a social occasion. Families, friends,
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Simplicity and universal appeal
The chicken parmigiana’s simple yet indulgent flavor profile is another reason for its enduring popularity. A lightly breaded and fried chicken schnitzel provides a satisfying crunch, while the tomato sauce adds sweetness and acidity, and the melted cheese lends creaminess and richness. These elements combine to create a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. Theflavoursarefamiliar,andtheingredients— chicken, cheese, and tomato—are staples that most people enjoy.
Its simplicity means it appeals to a wide audience, from children to adults, making it a versatile menu item that works for lunch, dinner,orevenasaquickmealincasualdining settings. Furthermore, it is adaptable; different pubs and restaurants often put their unique spin on the dish, experimenting with different cheeses, sauces, or accompaniments, while still maintaining its essence.
Nostalgia and tradition
For many Australians, the chicken parma evokes a sense of nostalgia. It’s often one of the first dishes people order when they visit a pub, creating memories of social gatherings, family dinners, and special nights out. The familiarity of the dish, combined with its consistent presence on menus across the country, ensures that it remains a favorite among Aussies.
and colleagues frequently gather over a parma and chips, making it more than just a meal but a shared experience. Pub patrons know what to expect when they order a chicken parma: a large, golden-crusted chicken schnitzel topped with rich tomato sauce, melted cheese, and served with chips and salad.
The chicken parmigiana has secured its place as an Australian favourite due to a combination of factors: its Italian roots, its role in pub culture, its simple and universally appealing flavor, and its hearty, filling nature. Whether enjoyed in a casual pub setting or at home, the chicken parma continues to be an iconic dish that brings people together across Australia.
1 Basketball league (1,1,1) 3 A permanent administrative office (11) 9 Supervisors (7) 10 Country in Horn of Africa (7)
Income streams (8) 12 Conventions (6) 14 Bad (3) 15 Possibly (11)
Curse (11) 19 Type of palm (3) 20 Board rider (6) 21 Hats, helmets, etc. (8) 24 Accepting without resistance (7)
25 US writer (1817–62), Henry David – (7)
26 Representing an abstract meaning (11) 27 Deity (3)
Titanic sinker (7)
20 Prefix meaning above (5)
22 Amusingly odd (5)
23 Close (4)
1 What is the name of Holly Golightly’s cat in Breakfasta tTiffany’s? 2 Mageirocophobia is the fear of what? 3 Who designed the dome in St Peter’s Basilica?
4 Which Victor Hugo novel was adapted into a Disney film in 1996?
5 Name the infamous warren of streets buried beneath the city of
7 True or false: Napoleon was known as the ‘Man of Blood and Iron’?
8 Juno Temple (pictured) stars as model Keeley Jones in which sports comedy-drama series?
9
News has never been more vital
By Paul Thomas
On this World News Day, we are reminded of the invaluable role journalism plays in safeguarding our democracy, especially in regional and local towns across Australia.
While global headlines may dominate, it’s the local stories that are the heartbeat of our communities. Public interest journalism serves not only as a watchdog but also as a bridge between the people and their local governments, businesses, and neighbours.
Local newspapers are often the sole providers of information that directly impacts residents’ daily lives. From covering council meetings to reporting on issues like infrastructure development or the success of local businesses, these newspapers perform a critical function. When journalists shine a light on important issues, they empower their communities to engage, voice concerns, and demand accountability.
At the Geelong Independent, we believe that public interest journalism is essential for the health of our democracy. In an age of misinformation and dwindling trust, our mission is to provide fact-based reporting that our readers can rely on. While we operate in a rapidly changing media landscape, the core values of journalism remain unchanged: truth, transparency, and a commitment to the communities we serve.
The rise of social media has fundamentally transformed how we consume information, with both positive and negative consequences. While platforms like Facebook, Instagram,
and TikTok have connected us in new and powerful ways, they have also become breeding grounds for misinformation, deep fakes, and viral falsehoods. With content
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
increasingly manipulated, from deep fake videostoentirelyfabricatednewsstories,ithas become harder for people to distinguish fact from fiction. This erosion of trust threatens
the very foundation of informed communities and societies.
In contrast, local newspapers provide a crucial counterbalance to this tide of disinformation. Our journalists work tirelessly to deliver stories grounded in facts, verified by trusted sources, and shaped with balance.Whenyoureadyourlocalnewspaper, either in print or online, you can trust that the information is accurate, relevant, and serves the best interests of your community. Local newspapers are more than just sources of news;theyarethedefendersoftruthinanoisy and often confusing media landscape.
As technology and media consumption habits continue to evolve, local journalism must adapt. However, the mission remains the same: telling stories that matter, holding the powerful to account, and keeping the public informed. Newspapers, particularly in regional and local towns, have a duty to remain trusted sources of news for the communities they serve.
In a time when misinformation and falsehoods spread rapidly, let’s make sure the truth rings louder. By supporting local journalism, we strengthen not just our media but the very fabric of our regional and local towns. Together, we can ensure that truth and integrity remain at the heart of our communities.
* Paul Thomas is the owner and director of the Ocean Grove Voice. He has worked in newspapers all his life and is a former president and life member of Country Press Australia.
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.
Ocean Grove Soft Tennis
Friendly group of active women retirees who have played soft tennis for many years. The game is similar to Pickleball. Ocean Grove Memorial Hall, 123 The Avenue, Mondays 1.30-3.30pm. No experience necessary. Just a desire to keep fit and have fun.
Megan, 0439 317 344
Ballroom dance
Leopold Hall, Leopold Hall, 805-809 Bellarine Highway, Saturday October 5, 7.30pm-11pm, $10 includes supper, music Charles. Positive ageing dance, Sunday October 6, 2pm-4.30pm, free includes supper, music Charles.
0400 500 402
Bellarine country music
Friday nights, music 7pm-10pm. Great band, walk ups welcome. Belmont Park Pavilion, entry $10.
CWA Nightlights Ocean Grove meets the first and third Monday of the month, 2.30pm, Seniors Club, 102 The Terrace, Ocean Grove. All welcome.
Kareen, 0419 246 346, or Janis, 5255 4585
Bellarine Women’s Workshop Portarlington Girl Guides Hall. Meets every second Thursday, and second Saturday of the month.
Facebook: Bellarine Women’s Workshop for further details
Chess clubs
For chess fun simply come along and see yourself, play some chess, meet some members, with no obligation to join. We 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
Croquet
Drysdale Bowling & Croquet Club, Clifton Springs Road, Tuesdays from 10am for training, bring a friend.
0428 740 591
St Leonards, Thursdays at 9.30am, unit 2 1375-1377 Murradoc Road, (on Blanche Street), St Leonards.
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 and 3rd Monday 2.30pm
Kareen, 0419 246 346, or Janis, 5255 4585
Monthly
Inhouse Movies 3rd Wednesday 1.30pm.
Dianne, 5255 1372
Carpet bowls
Leopold Hall 805-809 Bellarine Highway, Leopold on Wednesday and Friday from 1pm to 3.15pm. Admission: $4 includes afternoon tea.
0400 500 402
Book club
Leopold CAE book club meets second Tuesday each month from 6.30pm. Very friendly group. New members welcome.
Shirley, 0488 055 969
Scottish country dancing classes
GOG Scottish Country Dance classes
7.30pm Tuesdays at Leopold Hill Hall, $5. No partner needed, just comfy casual clothing and flat shoes.
Jane, 0481 126 022, or Barbara, 0419 511 781
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
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
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 St, Drysdale on the second Tuesday of the month. Meetings start at 1pm followed by afternoon tea. Friendly group looking to recruit new members.
Jenni, 0452 258 333
Ocean Grove Voice owner and director Paul Thomas.
Out and about
1/ Lauren Hinkley with baby Austen, Henry, Flynn, Grace, Alaina and Sam. 2/ Toby Huffer and Bella Chwasta with Meche. 3/ Michelle Helebrant. 4/ Georgie Coram with her sons Tobias and Louis. 5/ Leah Beech. 6/ Max and Trish Bradfield. 7/ Faye Innes-Irons with her grandchildren Ollie and Grace. 8/ Heather Rookes. 9/ Jessica Brisbane braved the surf without a wetsuit. 10/ Brad and Angela Hawkins with their children Imi, Jesse and Zach. 11/ Alexa Bishop with her sons Eliot and Dominic. 12/ Matt Adamson and his daughter Kailani. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 434885
Voice photographer Ivan Kemp went to Ocean Grove main beach on the first day of this month this on a cool, but sunny, day.
Part-Time Telesales Representative Star News Group
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Geelong, Torquay & the Bellarine. We’re maintenance plumbers & gas fitters and can assist you with:
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Give us a call on 5261 2422 if we can be of assistance, we'd be more than happy to help.
help you for guidance in relationship, career, family and general life. www.spiritualhealerde mbo.com gabrieldiagne9 @gmail.com 0420 731 094
Star News Group is an innovative and dynamic media company located in Pakenham, Victoria. As a leading publisher of print and digital news, we are looking for a part-time Telesales Representative to join our team.
Overview
The successful candidate will be responsible for increasing revenue by selling our products and services to potential and existing customers via phone call.
This is a part-time role with flexible hours.
Key Responsibilities
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•Coordinate with the sales and marketing team to align sales strategies and campaigns.
•Telesales or cold-calling experience is preferred but not essential.
•Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Results driven and target-oriented mindset.
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The position is salaried, plus we offer an open ended commission scheme.
Send your application letter and resume to:
Advertising Sales Manager Mandy Clark mandy.clark@starnewsgroup.com.au
Mitsubishi ASX is the smallest vehicle in the company’s four-model SUV range beneath the Eclipse Cross, Outlander and Pajero Sport.
ASX (the acronym stands for Active Sports Crossover, not Australian Stock Exchange) has been around since 2010 and competes against a host of rivals in the small SUV category including Hyundai Kona, Mazda CX-30, Kia Seltos, Subaru XV, Toyota C-HR and the class sales leading MG ZS.
Despite being largely unchanged throughout the decade, ASX has been a star performer for Mitsubishi thanks to a combination of sensible design, functionality and sharp pricing.
The ASX comes with the choice of six variants: GS, ES, MR, LS, GSR and Exceed.
The first four are powered by a 2.0-litre petrol engine, while the GSR and Exceed step up to 2.4 litres. GS comes with the choice of manual or CVT automatic transmission, all others are auto only.
Buyers looking for a used ASX will get the option of diesel power and/or all-wheel drive but the current model only has petrol and front-wheel drive.
Prices range from $24,490 for a manual GS though to $35,240 for the Exceed.
Styling
Recent upgrades have given ASX a much bolder look especially with the latest version of the Mitsubishi Dynamic Shield front end. That and other tweaks have turned it into one of the best-looking vehicles in its class.
Wheels range from 16-inch steel with the GS to different styles of 18-inch alloys in the other variants.
LED headlights and daytime running lights are standard on all models with ES and above adding LED fog lights.
Our test vehicle was the ES model with a new Street accessory pack.
The pack adds a large black front spoiler, front and rear skid plates in black with red highlights, black tailgate protector, black exteriordoorhandlecovers,stainlesssteeldoor scuff plates and ‘Street’ decals.
Interior
The dashboard of the ASX reflects the vehicle’s age with a small 8-inch touchscreen at the centre rather than the larger sweeping screens that are now in fashion. However, as was the case with the ignition key, we don’t mind that at all. The screen is angled towards the driver and within easy reach.
Importantly, the aircon and audio controls are large knobs located below the screen that can be operated with minimal driver distraction.
Rear seat legroom is pretty good for all but more than six-foot passengers who will need the usual compromise with those in front. Five can be carried but it’s better if the three in the back are kids.
There’s good headroom in all seats, although that could be an issue with the panoramic sunroof in the top-of-the-range Exceed.
Models up to the LS have fabric seat trim. The GSR gets microsuede trim and synthetic leather bolster with Exceed having powered and heated leather seats.
The gear shifter in ES Street is trimmed in aluminium and leather.
Bootspaceis393litreswiththerearseatbacks in place.
Engines/transmissions
Going against the present trend towards turbocharging, both ASX engines are naturally aspirated.
The GS, ES, MR and LS get a 2.0-litre powerplant with outputs of 110 kW and 197 Nm at 4200 revs. The GSR and Exceed come with a 2.4-litre engine with power of 123 kW and torque of 222 Nm at 4100 rpm.
The GS manual has five speeds. All other models have continuously variable automatic transmission.
Safety
Standard safety features across the ASX range include seven airbags, enhanced ABS brakes, emergency stop signal, forward collision mitigation,activestabilityandtractioncontrol, hill start assist, rear view camera, and two Isofix child seat anchors.
The entry-level ES can be ordered with an ADAS package which adds lane departure warning; automatic dusk sensing headlights; blind spot warning; lane change assist; and rear cross traffic alert. These features are not available in the MR but are standard in the LS, GSR and Exceed.
Infotainment
All variants have an eight-inch touchscreen system in the top centre of the dashboard. It’s clear and easy to read with only minimal distraction needed to operate. There’s also voice activation.
Bluetooth pairing is fast and intuitive and there’s smartphone mirroring through wired Apple CarPlay or Android Auto along with DAB digital radio where available.
The Exceed gets a nine-speaker Rockford Fosgate premium sound system as well as integrated satellite navigation. Other models get four- or six-speaker generic audio.
There are twin USB-A ports at the base of the centre console in the GS and ES and two more, also USB-A, in the rear of the higher-spec models.
Driving
The ES Street that we tested had an ignition key rather than the almost universal push-button start in its competitors. That’s not necessarily a negative, especially with older buyers like ourselves,wholikethefactthatwealwaysknow where the key is located instead of rummaging around trying to find where you’d tossed the key fob.
For those who prefer push-button start, it’s standard from the LS models upwards.
The ASX is easy to drive and while not sporting it handles normal day-to-day driving competently. Ride comfort is good and the suppression of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) works well.
The 2.0-litre engine does not reach anything like peak power of 110 kW until 6000 rpm, while torque is similarly tardy, at 197 Nm at 4200 revs.
The continuously variable transmission performance was adequate in city driving but came up wanting on overtaking. Sports mode had the ASX upping the ante with six-step operation.
It’s nicely responsive, which we like as it’s more pleasant to drive than many of the small displacement turbo-petrol engines that are in vogue nowadays.
Steering has a pleasant nice feel and gives the driver good response. Cornering is simple and the ASX generally follows the chosen line without you having to correct it midway through.
Road noise is generally well damped, but some stretches of Australia’s notorious coarse-chip surfaces set up a fair bit of noise in the cabin.
Fuel consumption with the 2.0-litre engine is listed at 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres. During our usual mix of urban and motorway conditions we averaged 9.1 L/100 km.
Summing up
The Mitsubishi ASX is a bit of an enigma because,despitebeingstillinitsfirstgeneration after 14 years, it remains one of the best-selling vehicles in the compact SUV segment.
Having said that, regular styling, technology andsafetyupdates–togetherwithkeenpricing – has allowed it to keep pace with its many, much younger rivals.
It’s practical, stylish and easy to drive and will appeal to both young families with preteen children and retirees alike.
Note that Mitsubishi is headlining its advertising with an industry-leading 10-year warranty. It certainly sounds attractive on the surface but less so when you drill down because not only is the 10-year deal dependent upon having all servicing done exclusively at Mitsubishi dealerships, but also the distance is limited at 200,000km.
If you choose to have your servicing done elsewhere then the coverage drops down to five years and 100,000 kilometres.
No doubt that will suit many buyers but deter others. Do your own sums.
Despite being largely unchanged throughout the decade, ASX has been a star performer for Mitsubishi.
Competitive play at Lara
LOCAL TENNIS
Donna Schoenmaekers
Competition tennis is on hiatus for Tennis Geelong during school holidays with the anticipation of Night and Saturday Pennants starting from October 7.
There are still opportunities for players to get in some preparation with various tournaments around the state, and for juniors, a number of development events around the area.
Geelong Lawn will host their monthly tournament this week, Western Heights Uniting hosted 30 players last week and the Bellarine will be similar at Point Lonsdale in a fortnight.
The most recent addition to this opportunity is Lara with their event held last weekend. It has been a number of years since Lara hosted such an event, and with 45 players on the day, the plans for running multiple events in 2025 have been solidified. Proximity to Melbourne was an advantage for the northern club with 19 entries from outside Geelong, while local supportwasalsogood,withthedrawsreaching capacity and several players on the reserve list.
Players with ratings between 6.5 and 1 were split into nine groups of five, based on UTR, playing four six-game sets, giving everyone
Triple win for calisthenic college
Ocean Grove Calisthenic College (OGCC) has won three Victorian State Championships titles for the first time.
This year OGCC’s Masters team, comprising nine women, won the State Championships.
Coached by Maggie Greenhalgh, the team includes women who have not competed in callisthenics for more than 30 years and the average age is about 44.
The Seniors team of 14 girls won the State Championship for Division 2. Many of the team members have been together since their sub junior days. Coached by Megan Hussain, the Juniors team of 11 girls, won the State Championship for Division 3.
The Sub Juniors team of 16 girls, coached by Jane Brown, gained a reserve aggregate trophy (runner-up) for Division NW1.
Earlier in the year Stevie McCoy won the 10 Under Division 2 state title for her exercise routine.
plenty of match play.
Top seed Abishek Mugunthan took out Group A with four wins 6-3, 6-3, 6-1, 6-1, while Jensen Wong also had a clean sweep in Group B, but with a tougher time, fighting to two 7-5 wins.
Oliver Mitrevski and Tim Tianze Xu both suffered a loss in Group C, but with Mitrevski winning their match up took the honours for the section. Likitha Nagavarapu battled against Andre Ficca eventually victorious 7-5 to win through in Group D.
Group E saw all players winning at least one set with Rishith Reddy Vangala eventual
champion with four wins. Lexi Miller was one of the most consistent on the day winning all her four sets 6-3 in Group F while Zoe Lotfus won on a count back in Group G to Spencer Miles with only one game separating them for the day.
Lucy Salmon and Kevin Wang took out Groups H and I without dropping a set giving themgreatconfidencegoingintotheupcoming Summer competition.
With players enjoying good weather, standard of play and the new facilities at Lara, the day was a success with many looking forward to what is in store for 2025.
Land-based fishos rejoice
ON THE BITE Peri Stavropoulos
The land-based fishing this past week has been sensational with St Helens rocks and Wangum walk producing some cracking snapper.
Launching baits off St Helens rocks has been very productive with anglers landing snapper to near 8kg which is a fantastic fish whether boat or land. Baits likefreshsalmon,pilchardsandsquidare the best bet.
Wangum walk has been better with numbers but the fish aren’t as big but, still 5kg fish being caught which is fantastic. Soft plastics have been most popular but baits are working well.
King George whiting have been well on the chew with the Bellarine Peninsula offering anglers some great fishing all the way from Curlewis right through to St Leonards have been holding great numbers of fish. In particular the Curlewis bank has been a hot spot with great numbers and good size to the fish also.
Fresh squid and pipis are by far the best baits, burley is also an important factor to consider when targeting them too. Just simple, pilchard cubes and some pellets in a cage is more than perfect for them. Calamari are starting to improve out from Queenscliff with the cleaner water starting to roll through with anglers finding good numbers. Although not big in size yet the average size should only get better over the next few weeks. Size 3.5 and 4.0 Jigs work well or if you’re after a giant run, a whole bait like King George whiting, silver whiting or salmon all work very well.
Offshore has had some good snapper reports start to roll through to those having a drift out in 50 metres of water with fish to around 2-4kg being the average size with plenty of fish smaller and still a few bigger than that again. Fresh calamari, salmon and pilchards are the best baits to be running out there or if you want to run lures, vibes and jigs are great options.
Cats slump to bottom four after Fremantle loss
Fremantle won its fourth-straight AFLW game, rallying on the back of an outstanding game from Aisling McCarthy to beat Geelong away by three goals.
The Cats are in the bottom four, with only one win from six games, while the Dockers are 5-1 and eyeing a top-four berth after Tuesday night’s 6.9 (45) to 3.9 (27) win to open week six.
McCarthy racked up 29 possessions and kicked the last goal of the game as Fremantle recovered from a poor start and made the home side pay dearly for their early scoring inaccuracy.
Fremantle’s Mim Strom dominated the undersized Cats rucks with 41 hitouts and forward Hayley Miller was crucial after halftime as the Dockers kicked clear.
Mikayla Morrison, who is back after two
ACL ruptures, was doused with sports drink by Fremantle teammates at the end of her first AFLW game in 973 days.
Fremantle’s win adds to the celebrations as Mikayla Morrison returns from two ACL injuries.
“It felt amazing. It took a while to get into it, but once I went on I felt good, felt comfortable,“ Morrison told Fox Footy.
She added her mother and younger brother had sprung a surprise by joining other relatives in coming to the game.
Geelong dominated nearly every statistic in the first term - most importantly racking up 11 inside 50s to three. But the Cats could only manage 0.4 and that extended to 0.6, before Aishling Moloney marked and kicked their first goal at eight minutes in the second term.
Seconds before Moloney took the mark, her opponent Ash Brazill went down holding her chest and had to leave the field brieflyan incident that could attract match review scrutiny.
Geelong’s Bryde O’Rourke had a rough debut, hurting her left shoulder in the first term.
Shecamebackonwiththeshoulderstrapped, but eventually had to leave the game.
Perhaps inevitably after Geelong botched a chance to build a significant lead, Fremantle turned the game on its head late in the second term.
Tunisha Kikoak snapped the Dockers first goal at 14 minutes and Miller added another two minutes later.
After a goal apiece, Geelong led by a point at
the main break when it should have been much further ahead.
An outstanding snap from Sarah Verrier three minutes into the third term confirmed the change in momentum.
The Dockers kicked another two in the term to one behind and opened up a 16-point lead at the last change.
Fremantle led by 17 early in the last before Zali Friswell snapped her first goal of the game, after an outstanding pass from Moloney.
The Cats attacked repeatedly, but Moloney’s snap midway through the last term was off target and it summed up their night.
McCarthy capped her night by snapping the sealer with 30 seconds left, while Becky Webster had 27 possessions for the Cats. - AAP
Maggie Greenhalgh, Peta Moores, and at front, Stevie McCoy, Maddie Stafford and Dasha Moores. (Supplied)
Anthony Pirrotina and Peri Stavropoulos with a haul of whiting.(Supplied)
Lara Group C: Winner Oliver Mitreski and runner-up Tim Xu. (Pictures: Supplied)
Lara Group A: Runner -upXavier Willoughby and winner Abishek Mugunthan.
Polders go back to back
Leopold won its second consecutive Geelong Football League premiership against South Barwon at GMHBA Stadium on Friday September 27 and Voice photographer Ivan Kemp was there to capture all the action.
Winners are grinners.
Left: Doyle Madigan is tackled by Marcus Thompson. Above: Connor Giddings takes a big mark in the goal square.
Luke Justin uses his speed to avoid a tackle.
Leopold players run through the banner.
Leopold captain Marcus Thompson celebrates after the siren.
You are never too young to celebrate.
Sam Scott with his son Eddie.
Leopold coach Garry Hocking watches with a few minutes of the game to go.
The Leopold cheer squad.
Left: Matt Caldow takes a big mark. Centre: The game begins with a ruck dual between Ben Kellett and Kyle Bumpstead. Right: Riley Stone runs into an open goal and scores. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 433874
Two in a row for excited Polders
Leopold won the Geelong Football League premiership on Friday September 27 at GMHBA Stadium. TheVoice’s Justin Flynn was there and saw it all unfold.
2.04pm: Leopold’s Marcus Thompson wins the toss and chooses to kick to the Joel Selwood stand end first.
1st QUARTER
45 seconds: The first score of the game goes to South Barwon with skipper Matt Caldow missing a snapshot he would normally kick. Leopold (L) 0.0 vs South Barwon (SB) 0.1
1 minute: Fraser Fort misses from 45, on the boundary. SB’s big guns have gotten their hands on the ball early. L 0.0 vs SB 0.2
2 minutes: Fort grabs the ball out of the ruck and snaps truly for the opening goal of the game. L 0.0 vs SB 1.2
4 minutes: Jake Pitt marks strongly and kicks well from 10m out on a slight angle. First goal for the Polders. L 1.0 to SB 1.2
6 minutes: Connor Giddings marks well and runs around the mark and goals. L 2.0 vs SB 1.2
10 minutes: The Swans’ Jack Driver cops a heavy knock, but is a tough nut and plays on. 12 minutes: Brock Williamson goals with a great snap for Leopold’s third. L 3.0 vs SB 1.2
15 minutes: Sam Scott with Leopold’s first miss for the afternoon with a banana/ checkside. L 3.1 vs SB 1.2
20 minutes: Riley Stone bobs up with an opportunistic goal and the Lions lead by 17 points. L 4.1 vs SB 1.2
21 minutes: Doyle Madigan plays on to get some extra distance, but it’s off the hands of the pack for a behind. L 4.1 vs SB 1.3
24 minutes: Jonty Broughton misses from a tight angle. L 4.1 vs SB 1.4
27 minutes: Jackson Carmody kicks from 50m after a free kick and the Swans needed that one. L 4.1 vs SB 2.4
29.59: It’s quarter time and Leopold leads 4.1(25) to South Barwon 2.4(16) in a high-standard game. The kicking skills in particular are impressive from both sides.
2ND QUARTER
4 minutes: Broughton gets a free and kicks well from 30m on a slight angle. L 4.1 vs SB 3.4
8 minutes: Patrick Kelly goals from a set shot
30m out. South Barwon back in front. L 4.1 vs SB 4.4
11 minutes: A rushed behind for the Swans. L 4.1 vs SB 4.5
14minutes: ahugetacklebyStoneisrewarded and he kicks from 50 but hits the post. 4.5 to 4.2
15 minutes: Giddings kicks his 2nd for the day from a set shot 30m out on a slight angle. Leopold regains the lead. L 5.2 vs SB 4.5
18 minutes: A good passage of play ends in Billy Ritchie leading well for set shot from 35m. He dobs it. L 6.2 vs SB 4.5
19 minutes: Fort misses from 20m. L 6.2 vs SB 4.6
22 minutes: Scott misses narrowly from a set shot. L 6.3 vs SB 4.6
27 minutes: Caldow misses from long range.
L 6.3 vs SB 4.7
28 minutes: South Barwon looks certain to score,butTevanNofitakesamassivedefensive mark and clears for Leopold.
27.55: The siren sounds to end the first half. It’s anyone’s game as Leopold leads by eight points, 6.3(39) to South Barwon 4.7(31)
3RD QUARTER
3 minutes: Luke Justin never looks like missing from 30m, slight angle. Nice mark, too. At full stretch. L 7.3 vs SB 4.7
5 minutes: massive tackle from Lachie Noble results in a free. Kicks beautifully from 45m and makes no mistake. Only eight points in it.
L 7.3 vs SB 5.7
7 minutes: Scott miskicks straight up in the air, but James Edmonds pounces and snaps around his body to goal. L 8.3 vs SB 5.7
8 minutes: Wow! A massive clash between Scott and Tom Bartlett sees Scott leave the field. He’s hurt by that one.
10minutes: EthanBorysgoalsfrom30mafter a mark. The Swans needed that one. Back to eight points. L 8.3 vs SB 6.7
11 minutes: Trent Thomson with a smart kick to Giddings, but he misses. L 8.4 vs SB 6.7
13 minutes: The first 50m penalty of the game and Nofi ends up with the ball in defence.
16 minutes: Logan Wagener to Ritchie with some smart play. He kicks from 50m on the boundary and it’s the hands of the pack for a behind. L 8.5 vs SB 6.7
20 minutes: Thompson grubs one through after a good passage of play and lets his opponent know all about it. L 9.5 vs SB 6.7
23 minutes: a rushed behind for Leopold. L 9.6 vs SB 6.7
28 minutes: Thompson almost pulls off a miracle dribble goal but it was saved right on the line.
27.53: one quarter to go and the Polders hold a 17-point advantage. The first goal of the last will be very important. L 9.6(60) vs SB 6.7(43)
4TH QUARTER
1 minute: Borys looks like he has hurt his ankle and is really struggling to move.
2 minutes: Edmonds gets the vital first goal from a set shot. L 10.6 vs SB 6.7
5 minutes: Tom Feely has a long-range shot but it’s off the hands of the pack. L 10.7 vs SB 6.7
7 minutes: South Barwon dominates for what seems like ages, but a goal-saving smother by Jett Matthews just might be the ‘big’ moment for Leopold.
9 minutes: Will Sheahan misses on an angle from a mark. South Barwon are just holding on. L 10.8 vs SB 6.7
12 minutes: James Edmonds runs down the wing, baulks and bounces, but looks to have done a hamstring.
12 minutes: Giddings misses narrowly. The margin is 26 points now and it’s slipping away for the Swans. L 10.9 vs SB 6.7
14minutes: Inacaptain’smoment,Thompson smothers and forces a ball up.
16 minutes: Caldow takes a mark and/or free kick after some good play from Jack Driver. He goes back and nails it. There’s a pulse. L 10.9 vs SB 7.7
18 minutes: Blair Huggins takes a big defensive mark.
20 minutes: Ritchie runs into an open goal and the Polder fans roar. Surely that’s the game? L 11.9 vs SB 7.7
21 minutes: The crowd figure is shown on the scoreboard with 10,242 people attending. Throw in a couple of thousand for the netball and it’s been a big day.
21minutes: TheSwanswithacentreclearance and Fort replies instantly with a big goal. L 11.9 vs SB 8.7
23 minutes: Driver goals with a superb kick after a good mark running back with the play. The Swans’ crowd comes to life. They couldn’t, could they? L11.9 vs SB 9.7
25 minutes: A rushed behind after a real chance sees Leopold hanging on by 13 points. L 11.9 vs SB 9.8
27 minutes: rushed behind to Leopold. L 11.10 vs SB 9.8
28 minutes: Understandably wanting to move the ball quickly, Lachie Weidemann kicks out on the full. Thompson puts it to the top of the square where Pitt marks and goals. That’s the ball game folks. L 12.10 vs SB 9.8
30 minutes: Pitt to Wagner, who misses. L 12.11 vs SB 9.8
29.46: That’s the siren. Leopold has won consecutive flags with a 21-point win in a terrific game, 12.11(83) to 9.8(62). The Polder army celebrates as do players and coaches. Coach Garry Hocking bows out with successive premierships.
4.57pm: Brock Williamson (Leopold) is announced as the inaugural Frank Fopiani Medallist. He is presented with his medal by Frank’s son Connor.
Leopold celebrate back to back GFL premierships. (Ivan Kemp) 433874_08
Grubbers appoint new leaders
By Justin Flynn
Ocean Grove heads into the new Bellarine Peninsula Cricket Association season with a new coach and a new captain.
David Bullock has taken over from Robbie Rutley at the helm while Fletcher Long will skipper the A Grade side as the club aims to return to the finals.
The Grubbers will be without star all-rounder Mick Thornton, who has crossed to rival club Anglesea. Paul Jubber has retired.
Grove will welcome English import Zac Jones, who is a highly credentialed all-rounder who hits the ball hard and bowls at a lively pace.
Bullock said numbers have been strong during preseason and that the players were looking forward to the first game for premiership points this Saturday October 5 against Jan Juc at home.
“We’ve managed to get some training done with the weather that we’ve had so we’re pretty positive about the preseason,” he said.
“We’re looking at that list and seeing where we can develop from within. Our focus will be competing for longer. Just trying to stay in the game for longer periods of time, not lose wickets in clumps or sort of go missing for 10 overs or 20 overs in the field or with the ball.”
A trend that has emerged in the BPCA of late is the emergence of slow bowling, not only as a way of reducing the run rate, but to take wickets.
The Grubbers have as good a slow-bowling attack as anyone in the comp.
“The current flavour of the game at local level seems to be to bore teams for as long as possible and let them make the mistake,” Bullock said.
“We do have options for our team, particularly in the ones, so we’ll have plenty of slow bowling options. And if that’s the way
that we think the game’s going, we’ll look into that and see what our slow bowling options look like.
“But, I’m sure on the other foot, there’s a couple of guys who can get the ball through reasonably well. Zac coming from England, fromwhatwe’veseen,helookstobereasonably slippery. But we’ll just look at the makeup of our team and we’ve got a game plan that we think will suit our eleven.”
Cobras are aiming high this season
Collendinacaptain-coachNathanFryeexpects his side to be pushing for promotion to the Bellarine Peninsula Cricket Association A1 Grade competition again this season.
The Cobras lost last season’s A2 Grade decider to Drysdale, but Frye said the result hadn’t been mentioned once during the preseason.
“We honestly haven’t even mentioned the grand final once all preseason and it’s not even like we’ve avoided it, it just hasn’t been brought up,” he said.
“Everyone’s looking forward instead of looking backwards. We lost two games of cricket for the whole year last year so we’re doing pretty much everything right. We’re pretty comfortable in where we are, what we’re doing.”
The Snakes have lost batter Ben Ricardo, but have regained spinner Jacob Gasior while Baxter Stephenson and seamer Oscar Irwin have signed on.
Gasior will form a potent partnership with fellow tweaker Stan Grazotis.
“Especially in the one dayers where they can get through their eight (overs) each quite tight and quite quickly,” Frye said.
“They can really put teams on the back foot.” However, Collendina’s run-making prowess is what excites Frye most of all.
“I think batting is our strength,” he said.
“We’vegotsomereallygoodtop-endbowlers, but we’ve got some really good top-end bats as well. I think it’s going to be the depth players, the next four or five, it’ll be rotated around because we’ve probably got 15 or 16 A Grade players that would play at most other places.”
Collendina had several promising youngsters make their mark in the team last
“I’m really excited to see those young guys after another six months just to see how they go,” Frye said.
“They’ve all come back to preseason six inches taller so it’s great as a coach because that’s pretty much all they needed to do was just get a little bit bigger because they’re all bloody good cricketers already.”
Frye’s “dodgy knee” will prevent him from bowling or keeping wickets this season.
“I think I’ll just be standing at first slip watching everything,” he said.
“I’m not allowed to ball anymore so it will be just batting I think for me this year so I’ll have to make sure I get some (runs) otherwise I’ll find myself in the twos.”
The Cobras take on Surfcoast Stingrays in their season opener tomorrow at home.
The Stingrays will enter their second season inthecompetitionandarestillsomewhatofan unknown quantity for Bellarine-based teams.
“It only takes a team to pick up two good guys and they’re completely different, so until 12.30 on Saturday when we are playing, we’ll see what happens,” Frye said.
Frye said he expects Portarlington and InverleightobeuptherethisseasonandthatSt Leonards could do well again.
“Inverleigh have picked up a couple of good ones and obviously coming back from a higher competition, they’re going to adjust pretty well in A2, but you never know until you play everyone,”hesaid.“Especiallythistimeofyear, it’s hard to make calls.”
FIXTURE
A1 GRADE
One-day matches
Saturday October 5 at 12.30pm
• Ocean Grove vs Jan Juc at Ray Menzies Oval
• Barrabool vs Drysdale at Ceres Recreation Reserve
• Armstrong Creek vs Barwon Heads at Armstrong Creek East Sports Precinct
• Queenscliff vs Anglesea at Queenscliff Recreation Reserve
A2 GRADE
One-day matches
Saturday October 5 at 12.30pm
• Wallington vs Inverleigh at Oakdene Oval
• St Leonards vs Portarlington at Len Trewin Reserve
• Newcomb vs Winchelsea at Ervin Reserve
• Collendina vs Surf Coast at Collendina Recreation Reserve
Justin Flynn Nathan Frye is confident the Snakes can be up there again this season. (Ivan
Above: Fletcher Long will skipper Ocean Grove this season. (Justin Flynn) 315527_18
Right: New Ocean Grove coach David Bullock. (Ocean Grove CC)
