Bob posts a milestone
Ocean Grove’s Bob McKillop is celebrating 51 years of service with Australia Post.
The 66-year-old man started his career with the mail company when he was 15 as a telegram boy, a no longer existing position. He has since risen through the ranks as a parcel delivery driver in Burwood before becoming a full-time postie in Ocean Grove.
“I love the people, and you come to grow a relationship with the locals, especially in a small town like Ocean Grove,” Mr McKillop said
“I’ve been lucky because Australia Post has evolved over 50 years. Something new is introduced and re-energises you, and your passion for the job.”
Read more about Mr McKillop’s story in this week’s Friday Feature on page 4.
A weekend of art to enjoy
With 30 new artists displaying their works, this year’s Bellarine Arts Trail looks like being the biggest yet.
More than 90 artists will showcase their works at 40 venues across Barwon Heads, Ocean Grove, Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff on November 2 and 3.
Capitalising on a long weekend for many during the Melbourne Cup campaign, visitors will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with artists and discover their work. Bellarine Arts Trail coordinator Libby Darcy said that the Bellarine’s unique coastal environment, nature, ocean, light and landscapes are key themes reflected in many of the artists’ work in this year’s trail.
“Visitors to the trail will discover a huge diversity of art with artists working across a range of mediums including painting, sculpture, jewellery, weaving, photography, print-making, ceramics and glass blowing and we’re thrilled to showcase the region’s creative talent and provide an eventwhichdirectlysupportsartists,”shesaid.
“Participating artists include established professionals to emerging artists and hobbyists. Work ranges from Georgie Gall’s landscapes inspired by ocean and light at The Hive Gallery to abstract visual art in vivid colours by Baz Shirley in Ocean Grove to character portraits in pastels by Mike Birrell at Suma Park Homestead, to Bevan Shepard’s
Point Lonsdale inspired coastal landscapes to Rachel Scott Smith’s ceramics reflecting the marine environment and creatures, and so many more can be found in the Bellarine Arts Trail Map.”
Ms Darcy said every venue provides an opportunityforvisitorstointeractwithartists, find out more about their influences, view and purchase art from the creators.
The Taste of the Trail Exhibition at the Barwon Heads Arts Hub is the perfect start to the arts trail experience.
Visitors can sample artists’ work and go on to visit them in studios and exhibition spaces across the region.
The Taste of the Trail opens on October 19
and runs until November 4, Friday to Sunday from 10am.
Visitors are encouraged to explore the trail with a digital Bellarine Arts Trail Map at bellarineartstrail.com.au or pick up a print copyatVisitorInformationCentresatGeelong City Hall and the Hub in Queenscliff. Also, Queenscliff Neighbourhood House, Barwon Heads Arts Hub, Starfish Cafe Barwon Heads, Community Bank Barwon Heads, Driftwood Cafe Ocean Grove, The Hive Gallery Ocean Grove, Pasquinis and Cafe 3225 in Point Lonsdale.
For more information, go to bellarineartstrail.com.au
Bob McKillop.
(Ivan Kemp)
435671_06
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
Grants to create a bright future
Alison Marchant announced the opening of applicationsforFutureReady2025-26program grants last week.
Open for applications until 3pm on Friday, November 29, the Future Ready program offers grants of between $24,000 and $56,000 for government secondary schools, not-for-profit organisations, Aboriginal entities and social enterprises.
Thegrantsareintendedtohelporganisations
work with students via a range of activities such as mentoring, training, work placement, volunteering and leadership opportunities, with the intent to help them build their skills and get more involved with their community.
Funding from the grants can be used to provide transport for students whose place of residence in regional and rural areas would be a barrier to opportunities.
Previously known as Advance, Future Ready
will assess applications on how they align with the three priority areas of the program: young peopleachievingtheirgoalsthrougheducation, training, volunteering or employment; young peoplebeingrespectedandinvolvedindecision making; and young people being confident and strong in their identity and culture.
“This program is supporting young people on the Bellarine with opportunities to expand their capabilities and potential,” Ms Marchant
Literary festival celebrates a decade
Queenscliff Literary Festival (QLF) kicks off this weekend, celebrating its 10th birthday with a stellar lineup of presenters and a range of sessions, workshops and activities.
The nine-day festival features renowned writers and storytellers such as Tim Winton, Judith Lucy, Peter Goldsworthy and Candice Fox from a wide range of subject areas, including crime, journalism, Australian life and history, memoirs and children’s books. Festival program director Elizabeth McCarthy said the committee and volunteers had been “working around the clock” to ensure the 10th anniversary event was the best yet.
“For our 10th birthday we wanted to make
it a little bigger than usual, so we’re absolutely thrilled that all these authors have said a hearty yes to coming,” Ms McCarthy said.
“It’sreallyimportanttometohavethatbroad cross-section of authors coming. So everyone from crime writers to chefs, historians, comedians, athletes, memoirists and those big high-profile names like Tim Winton, Candice Fox and Pip Williams.
“So whether you’re someone who’s always reading, with the stack of books on your bedside table, or whether you just read a few books a year, I wanted it to be really special.”
The festival also features a range of more interactive activities, including writing
workshops, a guided literary walk and a community-wide book swap.
“There’s a really beautiful kind of beautiful atmosphere at Queenscliff and I think it’s perfect for a writers festival,” Ms McCarthy said.
“It’s always been a grassroots festival and it still is. Volunteers have come together for 10 years to build this community because they’re passionate about it.
“The fact this festival started 10 years ago out of the bookshop…speaks to how when people come together, they can create a really great thing.”
Matt Hewson
said. “I encourage eligible secondary schools and local community organisations to apply to this program that will provide a lasting impact for Bellarine students.”
Activities funded through Future Ready grantswilltakeplacebetweenthestartofTerm 2 2025 and the end of Term 4 2026.
Visitvic.gov.au/future-ready-grantsformore information about the Future Ready 2025-26 program or to apply.
Preparing to remember the fallen
Ocean Grove Barwon Heads
RSL sub-branch will be holding Remembrance Day services at the cenotaph at Ocean Grove Park and concurrently at Memorial Hall in Barwon Heads.
Both services will commence at 10.50am on Monday November 11.
Ocean Grove Barwon Heads RSL Sub-Branch president Phil Edwards said the significance of this day dates to the November 11, 1918, and “it is a day when we pause a 11am to reflect on the tremendous sacrifices made by those who have served in conflicts both past and present”.
“It is a day when we remember the courage, the dedication, and the unwavering commitment of our servicemen and women who put themselves in harm’s way for the greater good,” he said.
During the week leading up to Remembrance Day volunteers will be selling poppies to raise funds to support Veteran welfare.
You will find the volunteers at Ocean Grove Pharmacy, Market Place Shopping Centre, Kingston Shopping Centre and APCO Barwon Heads. On Saturday November 9 and Sunday November 10 volunteers will also be selling poppies at Bunnings Leopold.
For more than 100 years, the annual Poppy Appeal has supported Australian veterans and their families. Your donation will help RSL continue to deliver life-changing support to our veterans when they need it the most.
QLF festival manager Kirsty Wilson and president Pauline Nunan. (Ivan Kemp) 436579_01
Bob keeps delivering on 51 years
Ocean Grove’s Bob McKillop is celebrating 51 years of service with Australia Post. He speaks with Jena Carr about the huge milestone and how the job has changed during his career.
Ocean Grove’s Bob McKillop, 66, was born in Scotland and came to Australia with his family when he was 12.
Three years later, in 1973, he would embark onanearly51-year-longjourneywithAustralia Post, starting as a telegram boy, a job that no longer exists, in Burwood.
“My sister had really bad asthma and died clinically twice or three times,” he said.
“Mydad’sparentswerealreadyoutherewith his brother, and the doctor said Australia was good for asthma, so we moved.
“I left school when I was 15, and Dad got me the job as a telegram boy. He was a bus driver and knew a lot of people.
“There was a telegram delivery job, and the guy he knew was quitting, and he said, ‘Get your son to get a job’. So, he got me the job.
“I was a telegram boy for nearly three years... and many of the telegrams were for weddings andfunerals.ButthenIgotmylicence,became a driver, and delivered parcels.
‘‘ I don’t change too much but the job has changed ... very rarely do you get a handwritten letter these days ’’ - Bob McKillop
“I’ve been a postie ever since I was 19 or 20... and I got dad a job 10 years later. I also just like going to work every day as I love my job.”
Bob moved to Ocean Grove from Burwood in 1989, where he worked as a postie for 34 years.
“I was doing a boss’ job in Melbourne and working as an acting boss. A job came up as a permanent thing and I put in for it, but they knocked me back and said I was too young,” he said.
“I’ve been doing the boss’ job for two years, buttheysaidIwastooyoung.So,Idecidedthat if I can’t be the boss I might as well move.
“So, I went and saw the postmaster at Ocean Grove. I had 17 years of experience by then, and he said, ‘Oh yeah, we’ll have you’, and I started then. It was good down here bringing up two boys.
“My family used to caravan down in Ocean Grove quite a few years before we moved... and I love the people, and you come to grow a relationship with the locals.”
AustraliaPosthasevolvedalotover50years, and Bob said that every time something new was introduced, it “re-energises you and your passion for the job”.
“I am a stickler, and I do stick to things. I don’t change too much but the job has changed,” he said.
after starting his career as a telegram boy at 15 years old. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 435671
“Back in the day, everybody used to write letters, and maybe not so many letters, but people used to send postcards.
“We deliver parcels rather than mail these days. When was the last time you got a handwritten letter? You probably never got one... and very rarely do you get a handwritten letter these days.
“People don’t really do that anymore, same as Christmas cards. We used to be so busy with Christmas cards, but now everybody sends emails.
“We also used to blow whistles back in
the day to let people know that there was mail in their letterbox, and when I moved down here, I started doing it and people used to ask what it was.”
Bob loved to showcase the spirit of Christmas each year as he dressed up himself and his motorbike to deliver some festive joytothestreetsofOceanGrove.
“I dressed up as Santa every Christmas Eve on the motorbike and I used to have kids coming from everywhere,” he said.
“I used to buy $20 worth of lollies from the local shop, and I just had them in my bag, and whenever I saw a kid, I’d give them a lolly.
“In the end I had so many people and what would usually take me four hours out on the bike, would take me six or seven. People just loved it.”
Despite his long career with Australia Post, Bob had considered other career options but always felt the call of mail drawing him back.
“I’ve always loved my job, otherwise I wouldn’t do it. I could retire now but I’m quite happy with what I am doing,” he said.
“I was going to be a pastry cook at one stage, but Dad said, ‘How reliable is it?’. I said, ‘Well, I don’t know’, and he said, ‘Well, the post office is pretty reliable. I’d advise you not to quit’. So, I didn’t.
“I was going to quit when I moved over to start my own gardening business, but it was a gamble. My brother-in-law also bought a restaurant down here when I first moved, so I worked there for 10 years.
“I’m a worker and couldn’t sit around doing nothinginretirement.So,ifIdoit,I’llprobably
help out at the golf club as a volunteer or at the op shops.
“I tried to go for transition to retirement, where I would have every Tuesday off as I play golf and a few of my mates play on golf Tuesdays, but we’re so short-staffed.
“So that’s been put on hold at the moment, but maybe next year I might retire but I don’t feel old and besides golf, I don’t really do a lot, and you can’t play golf for seven days a week.”
Bob said he has seen many people pass throughAustraliaPostandencouragedanyone considering a position to “go for it”.
“The job is easy because I know it so well, and I get to meet people as there’s all sorts of different people....and I also like the early starts finish,” he said.
“It’s flexibility because you can be home mostdaysat2pmatthelatest.So,ifyouwantto goandwork,doasport,pickyourkidsupfrom school or whatever, you can do that.
“A lot of people don’t like the early mornings but I’m an early person and always have been. I suppose that’s because I’ve been working for so long. I couldn’t do a nine to five job.”
Bob McKillop is celebrating 51 years with Australia Post,
Enjoy la belle vie at The Heights
By Matt Hewson
The blue, white and red will be flying when Le Festival Francais returns to The Heights Heritage House and Garden in Newton.
A celebration of all things French, the annual two-day festival is now in its third year, following the overwhelming success of previous events.
Run entirely by volunteers, Le Festival Francais showcases the food, wine and language of France, as well as non-stop French-themed entertainment, including a specialeveningperformanceofNoRegrets:the Edith Piaf Story by Nikki Nouveau.
Familiescanenjoythechampagnebar,picnic area and dining spaces around the picturesque gardens, with a dedicated Kids’ Zone offering free activities, puppet and circus workshops and painting and craft activities.
Festival organising committee member Judy Berryman-Long said the event had something for everyone.
“It’s great value for families to come early and stay all day, because once you’re in the gate there’s heaps of entertainment for kids and spaces for picnics,” she said. “We’ve got lots of stallholdersagain,there’sagoodvarietyoffood and the gardens are just beautiful. We’ve held various events up at The Heights over the years
because it’s such a lovely space.”
Ms Berryman-Long said this year’s event saw the addition of a series of masterclasses, conducted by experts in scents, French language, cycling, cheese and wine, furniture restoration and gardening.
“Some of them are free presentations, which people still need to book for, but the masterclasses are an elevated opportunity to learn something from masters in their field,” she said.
Le Festival Francais is at The Heights, Newtown on October 26 and 27. Visit lefestivalfrancais.com.au for the full program and to book tickets.
Evoking Botswana on the Bellarine
GeelongartistRobynPughhopestotransport viewers to the grasslands of Botswana with her latest exhibition, African Lands. Officially opening today (Friday, October 11) for a four-week stint at Artisans Gallery in Drysdale, the collection of works is in some ways a visual travel retrospective, a reflection of Pugh’s experiences in Africa last year.
Bursting with colour, Pugh’s works often combine traditional painting methods with other materials to create subtle yet effective collages.
The exhibition is not just the hung works; there is a video projection recorded by Pugh in Africa and pampas grass adorning the walls, providing a sense of immersion and atmosphere.
Pugh said she hoped viewers of her works could feel some resonance of the excitement and wonder she felt while on self-drive safari in Botswana.
“I’ve tried to capture my impression of (that experience)... the feeling I felt while I was in Africa,” she said.
“In Africa there was the excitement of
seeing something completely different; a completely different way of life, landscape, everything.
“There was an excitement of going out every morning and wondering what you’re going to see. You might see giraffes again, or zebra, but you might see a leopard just around the corner, or an African wild dog.
“And then to see the different textures, different light in the place… I put all that into the painting and I hope other people will see that.”
Matt Hewson
Golf
day to support foundation
Golfers of all abilities are being asked to support Christian College Geelong (CCG) Foundation’s four-person Ambrose Golf Day on October 24.
If you think you’re blessed with the skill, or luck, needed to land a hole-in-one at the magnificent 13th Beach Golf Links in Barwon Heads, you might just walk away with $30,000 in your pocket.
It’s one of many prizes being offered on the day.
Set in stunning Bellarine Peninsula surrounds, the day provides an opportunitytoenjoytheaward-winning creek course, known for its undulating couch fairways, deep bunkers and interesting swales and hollows.
Foundation chair Tim Page-Walker said it would a day with a whole lot more than a golf game on offer.
“The event promises to be a fun day filled with all sorts of activities and there are a number of incredible prizes up for grabs, including the cash prize of $30,000 if you score a hole in one on the 12th hole,” he said.
“There will also be some amazing auction items to bid on which will raise muchneededfundsforthefoundation.”
The event is an important annual tournamenttoraisemoneyfortheCCG Foundation that supports families in their greatest time of need by providing them with life-changing opportunities. Registration and sponsorship opportunities for the golf day are now open. Visit ccgfoundation.org.au/golf
Roving entertainer Jean Darme returns for Le Festival Francais 2024. (Supplied)
Geelong artist Robyn Pugh. (Ivan Kemp) 436585_06
Supporting girls to find their voice
gone from strength to strength.
Through the program, teenage girls are invited to find their voice and imagine and enact change in their own class, college and community with the support of school staff.
In 2018, North Geelong Secondary College assistant principal Brad Headlam was one of three local principals involved in conceiving and setting up the program in Geelong.
Mr Headlam, who received the Victorian Association of State Secondary Principals award this year for his work on the program, said small changes enacted by program participants had brought big results at North Geelong.
Shared trail officially open
A new shared walking and cycling trail at Beacon Point Reserve was officially opened last week.
Minister for Regional Development Gayle Tierney visited Clifton Springs alongside local MP Alison Marchant to officially open the trail, which is backed by a $284,000 state government investment. The new trail is the first of its kind to be built at Beacon Point Reserve, which previously had no formal walking tracks or paths. Around 800 metresofsharedtrailhasbeenbuiltfrom the existing beach access point along the foreshore and has new signage and trail information, accessible park furniture and revegetation of native plant species.
“This new trail will make it easier for locals and visitors alike to explore the beautiful Bellarine coastline, while also supporting local jobs and enhancing our region’s natural attractions,“ Ms Marchant said.
Works on the shared trail, which were fundedanddeliveredinpartnershipwith City of Greater Geelong, employed local sub-contractors.
Participating schools from the Be Bold Be Heard initiative attended a forum at GMHBA Stadium this week to hear from guest speakers and share students’ actions and achievements throughout this year’s program.
From its humble beginnings of a handful of schools in 2018 to 15 schools and more than 120 participants in 2024, Be Bold Be Heard has
Now the driving force behind the program, Mr Headlam said he was very proud of what it had become and excited to see it grow further.
“To see 15 schools turning up to celebrate (the program) with other schools, it’s overwhelming; knowing that growth and that change is happening in all 15 schools is a big thrill,” he said.
“(Two years ago) the students changed the sport uniform to make it more appealing for girls to participate… and introduced volleyball programs, which is more inclusive for them,” he said. “As a result, (girls’) participation in physical education has skyrocketed, they’re moreengagedwiththeirpeers,they’reincluded in the sports fraternity. These are wonderful things to be talking about, given that I’m also a PE teacher.”
Matt Hewson
Elsewhere on the Bellarine Peninsula $124,000 has been used to upgrade the St Leonards Memorial Hall, $21,000 for worksatPortarlingtonBaysideMiniature Railway and $50,000 for refurbishments to Queenscliffe Maritime Museum.
“We’reproudtobeinvestinginprojects that capitalise on the natural beauty of some of our most-loved open spaces, encouraging more people to come and enjoy all the Bellarine has to offer,” Ms Tierney said.
Free Kinder: Enrol for 2025.
Free Kinder is available for three- and four-year-old children in Victoria at participating services. Free Kinder is available in sessional (standalone) and long day care (childcare) settings, saving families up to $2,563 each year, per child.
At kindergarten, your child will:
• learn language, literacy and numeracy skills through play, art, music and dance
• learn to express themself and make friends in a safe and caring environment
• build skills and confidence before primary school.
Contact your preferred kinder service or local council to learn about how to enrol for 2025. Visit vic.gov.au/kinder
Council’s community plan tabled
By Matt Hewson
Geelong council released the quarterly report foritsOurCommunityPlan2021-25thisweek.
The report shows that, of 75 actions planned for completion in 2023-24, 57 were complete while 18 were ongoing.
Theplan,intendedtoinformthecommunity of what the councillor group aimed to achieve during their four-year term, includes strategic directions, desired outcomes and four-year
priorities.
The 2021-25 plan was the first to integrate the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing plan, identifying five health and wellbeing priorities that include tackling climate change, increasinghealthyandactiveliving,promoting gender equity and improving mental wellbeing and social connection.
CouncillorJimMasonsaidhewaspleasedby the 76 per cent completion rate demonstrated in the report.
Celebrating good food
A Bellarine food education program will celebrate its second birthday with a festive and family-friendly community party.
Farm My School (FMS) will open its gates to the public at the Bellarine Secondary College on Thursday, October 31, from 3.30pm to 8.30pm.
The event will feature music performances from Bellarine Secondary College students, a student photographic display, tree planting in the FMS orchard, food vans and other fun activities.
FMS co-founder James McLennan said he was proud of the program’s progress during its two years of operation.
“We’re excited to invite the community back to the farm to join us in celebrating our second birthday,” he said. “It’s really remarkable seeing the transformation of a disused soccer pitch, full of weeds and rabbit warrens, into an abundant market garden, that now supports a range of programs and initiatives.”
BellarineSecondaryCollegeprincipalWayne Johannesen said the event was an opportunity
to celebrate the partnership between FMS and Bellarine Community Health (BCH).
“Together we’ve achieved a lot in two years and I’m really looking forward to seeing what the students create as part of the celebrations,” he said.
BCH Healthy Communities planner Pen Lynch said the FMS pilot program continued to expand and now includes an education program open to other regional schools.
“It’s hard to believe it’s been two years since the big ‘build a farm in a day’ event when construction of the farm began,” she said.
“It’s grown so much since then and the birthday party is a wonderful celebration of everyone who has contributed to the farm, big or small, since that day.”
The event is free for Bellarine Secondary College students, their families, and staff, with a small admission cost for general community members.
Visit events.humanitix.com/farm-myschool-2nd-birthday-party-97pue4q4 for tickets to the FMS’s second birthday party.
In particular, Cr Mason noted the council’s work on the prevention of family violence and violence against women, support for maternal and child services, a strategic approach to end homelessness, conservation efforts for the Northern and Western Growth Areas, incorporation of environmentally sustainable design principles and the review of annual environmental and climate change action plans.
However, he noted the 18 incomplete,
ongoing actions, saying there was still “a lot of work to do”.
“Especially, we need to note implementation of the social housing plan 2020-41 is ongoing, (as is) the Drysdale Sporting Precinct Master Plan and the preparation of the heritage strategy to expand cultural inclusivity,” he said.
“And lastly, ongoing, is advocacy for the fundingfortheimplementationoftheBellarine Arts Centre-Potato Shed business case.”
Farm My School co-founder and director Ben Shaw at the program’s farm. (Ivan Kemp) 432154_07
Join VIEW and help end poverty
Members of Ocean Grove Evening VIEW Club arecallingonthecommunitytogivegenerously this Anti-Poverty Week from October 13 to 19 andsponsorachildthroughnationalchildren’s education charity The Smith Family.
Ocean Grove Evening VIEW Club helps 21 children through The Smith Family’s Learning for Life education support program, which provides families with long term educational, financial, and personal assistance so that children have all the essentials needed to fully participate in their learning.
President of the VC03 VIEW Clubs Region Lorraine Batrouney said with one in six children in Australia growing up in poverty, there has never been a more important time to support a child with their education.
“Families are having to make impossible choices during this cost-of-living crisis, this could be prioritising rent over sending their childonaschoolexcursion,beingabletoafford school books or essential digital learning tools,” she said.
“Alaptopandreliableinternetaccessathome are now vital for any child’s education. No child should have to miss out on the essentials for their education, and this is why VIEW is so passionate about supporting the work of The Smith Family.
“Its evidence-based approach helps children experiencing disadvantage to overcome the educational inequality they face. They support students for the duration of their education, and this helps them build the confidence and skills needed to create better futures for themselves.”
OGEVIEW Club is also encouraging women of all ages to donate their time and skills by joining a VIEW club.
Last year, VIEW members collectively volunteered more than 70,000 hours of their time to help young people through homework, reading and mentoring programs run by the charity – but there’s still a need for more helping hands.
VIEW members have a unique opportunity to provide hands-on support to children experiencing disadvantage, while also forming meaningful and lasting community relationships.
This week, a $964 million Major Road Maintenance Blitzwasannounced.
members participated in and organised reading assistance at Newcomb Primary School, a fundraising garden party, handmade blankets
Upcoming fundraising events by Ocean Grove Evening View are: Bunnings barbecue at Leopold Saturday October 12, fashion
To find out more about joining VIEW, visit view.org.au or call 1800 805 366.
Clifton Springs roundabout & pedestrian crossing upgrades. Upcoming pedestrian crossings at roundabouts in Ocean Grove and Barwon Heads.
New intersection at Stacey’s Rd & Barwon Heads Rd. Upgrades for Murradoc Rd in St Leonards.
Additional safety rails for Bellarine Highway.
Recently,
donated to Geelong Mums.
parade at the Pavillion Shell Road October 30, December Rotary market stall in Ocean Grove, and a major fundraising raffle (Beach Buggy) in which tickets will be sold at APCO Barwon Heads, Coles Ocean Grove and IGA Barwon Heads.
Left: Ocean Grove Evening VIEW Club president Lea P at the garden party fundraiser. Right: Carole Boughey holding some of the blankets recently donated to Geelong Mums. (Pictures: Supplied)
Taking the road less travelled
By Matt Hewson
Kate Hanley Corley didn’t take the usual route to a career of comedy, if such a thing exists. BornandraisedinGeelong,HanleyCorleyhad what she described as an “idyllic childhood”, one characterised by freedom and adventure.
After completing high school she found herself enrolled in a journalism course at Deakin University, the first of her unexpected career developments.
“I got into electrical engineering… but I thought, there’s no way I’m going down that path,” Hanley Corley said. “The people in the hall when I was enrolling said what about
journalism? That sounded really fun because every day is different and I love talking to people.”
After uni she relocated to Melbourne, working as a luxury handbag salesperson before entering the world of newspaper journalism, then eventually transitioning to the script department for shows such as Blue Heelers and City Homicide.
After taking some time off to raise a family, Hanley Corley found herself faced with something of an identity crisis.
“I was a stay-at-home mum and I was feeling very, very uninteresting,” she said.
“I felt like I had nothing to talk about
at dinner parties except for my children. I thought, I’ve really got to do something radical to get myself out of this funk.
“My girlfriends said, why don’t you try some comedy? And I thought, okay, I’ll give it a go… if no one laughs I’ll give it up. And that was 13 years ago.”
Entering the world of comedy had its challenges. A 37-year-old mother of three among a sea of “guys in their early 20s doing dick jokes”, Hanley Corley nevertheless carved a respected place for herself in the scene.
Returning regularly to Geelong over past years, Hanley Corley brings new show Sex, Uggs & Muffintops to the Geelong Comedy
Festival this November.
“This new show is particularly naughty, so guys love it while mothers and middle-aged women relate,” she said.
“It’sverymusical…Ihavealwaysreallyloved Bill Bailey and Flight of the Conchords, so it’s like musical comedy and stand-up.
“A lot of it is absurd, I just love making people belly laugh. That’s where I get a great deal of satisfaction, because I think laughing is suchanintegralneedforhumanstobehealthy. It really does bring people together.”
KateHanleyCorleyisatBeav’sBaronSunday, November 3. Visit geelongcomedyfestival.com. au for tickets and more information.
Geelong gets ready to be Bjorn Again in November
World renowned tribute show Bjorn Again comes to Geelong this November to celebrate the anniversary of ABBA’s Eurovision victory.
Described by Rolling Stone Magazine as “fabulously flawless”, Bjorn Again’s authentic renditions of ABBA’s hits, dazzling costumes and eye-popping light show and production have wowed audiences worldwide for nearly four decades.
The Waterloo Anniversary Tour, commemorating the band’s Eurovision Song Contest win in 1974 with the hit single, has seen the show performing non-stop all around Australia this year.
“It’s been one of our busiest years, I don’t even know how many shows we’ve done,” said lead performer Frida Longstockin.
“We recently played to 14,000 people in Broken Hill at Mundi
That was incredible, 14,000 people singing along to Fernando while holding their phone torches up.
“We played at the Sidney Myer Music Bowl earlier this year… we’ve also done the
Longstockin said performing with Bjorn Again was “almost too easy”, with audiences responding wherever they went.
“It really comes back to the music; the songs are timeless, they’re masterpieces,” she said.
“(The show) is high energy, but there are some really tender moments in there as well. The light show is next level and people get to see our very special dance moves, our glittery eyes and lots of beautiful costumes.
“And they will have a good laugh. A lot of people don’t realise how funny the show is.” Bjorn Again are at Costa Hall on Saturday, November 9. Visit geelongartscentre.org.au for tickets and more information.
Mundi.
Sydney Opera House, Glastonbury Festival, Albert Hall in the UK. Oh yeah, and Rooty Hill RSL!”
Celebrate the 50th anniversary of ABBA’s Eurovision win with Bjorn Again (Supplied)
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EDITORIAL
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YOUR VOICE
Spooky fun at the Shed
By Ali Wastie, City CEO
For more than two decades the Potato Shed has brought a plethora of quirky, fun, cheeky and thought-provoking performances to the Bellarine Peninsula.
Andthebelovedvenue’sprogramforthenext few months is no different, with an intriguing line-up from now until the end of December.
The Shed gets spooky next weekend as Halloween creeps up on us.
The terror begins on 26 October with The Dolly Horror Show, an adults-only cabaret featuring the horrifically talented Dolly Diamond and Matthew Hadgraft.
Spookfest continues on 27 October – a scary Sunday featuring a monster program of family fun.
Enter the haunted house if you dare, book a ticket to scary stories, monster carnivals and circus acts, or dance in Doris the Witch’s Spooky Disco.
The frightening festivities continue in the foyer and outside with the Furry Menaces, a spooky jumping castle, treasure hunts, face painting, singing pumpkins, ghastly ghouls and more.
While you’re there, grab lunch at one of the food vans or bring a picnic to relax under the trees and enjoy live music by talented local artists.
The thrills carry on into November with Off the Clock Cabaret – a show combining vaudeville and humour with heart-stopping circus acts – suitable for audiences aged 18+.
Next, Songbirds Gorgi Coghlan and Anna-Lee Robertson sing the story of their lifelong friendship on 16 November.
Journalist, TV personality and former teacher Coghlan is best known for her work presenting on Today, National Nine News and
But she is also a trained professional singer and has appeared in numerous stage musicals and televised concerts, such as the long-running Queen musical We Will Rock You and Carols by Candlelight. Her childhood friend, Robertson, is a classically trained soprano who has performed instageshowsacrossAustralia,theUKandthe US.
Greater Geelong City Council postal election
My council, my vote
An election is being held for Greater Geelong City Council.
Check the mail for your ballot pack
Ballot packs containing voting material were 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
Together, the Songbirds tell the story of their 37-year friendship in a night of music and laughter.
Another musical duo hits shed on 29 November, with Aussie ’60s star Issi Dye and award-winning music singer Glenn Douglas paying tribute to Dean Martin and Neil Diamond.
Enjoy The King of Cool’s hits like Sway With Me,VolareandThat’sAmore,thenfast-forward to Neil Diamond’s chart-toppers including Red RedWine,CracklinRosieand,ofcourse,Sweet Caroline.
Then,on4December,comeandcelebratethe launch of next year’s program.
The launch offers a sneak peek into the 2025 season including featured performers and musical interludes. This popular event always books out – so get your tickets early.
In mid-December, the Bellarine’s best playwrights and performers get their 12 minutes of fame in 12 x 12 Short Plays, presented by resident theatre company Theatre 3triple2.
Each play is 12 minutes long or less, with some delving into the darker side of life and others promising to have you laughing in the aisles.
The audience will vote for their favourite play along with the judges, who will award the playwright of the most well-constructed work.
And, finally, the festive season on the Bellarine would not be complete without Christmas at The Shed.
Come along and enjoy sing-along carols, games, popcorn and family friendly films, with the jolly man in red sure to drop by for a visit and a few pics.
For dates, times and more information on what’s on at the Potato Shed, visit geelongaustralia.com.au/potatoshed
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
The Project.
City of Greater Geelong chief executive Ali Wastie. (Supplied)
Birdwatching tales from the US
IamwritingthisalongwayfromOceanGrove, infactI’mclosertoOceanGroveinNewJersey.
I am currently sitting on a train in Louisiana in the deep south of America, on my way to visit Elvis Presley at Graceland.
Over the past few weeks, we have been to Oahu, Hawaii, and New Orleans in Louisiana, fortunately dodging a few hurricanes along the journey.
The main event in Hawaii was the wedding of my friend’s son. The wedding was held in an idyllic location known as Kualoa Ranch, which is where the movie Jurassic Park was filmed.
Of course I didn’t just concentrate on wedding activities and managed to fit some birdwatching into my day.
WestayedjustneartheHonoluluZoo,which I visited on a previous trip. I’m not really a great fan of zoos and would much rather view animals in their wild habitats, but this zoo has some great birds that I’m unlikely to see in my lifetime.
There are birds of paradise (native to New Guinea),Africanhornbills,flamingosandeven Mandarin ducks - all magnificent birds.
The zoo has many trees and grassed areas where Hawaiian native birds can be spotted, such as red-vented bulbul, white-rumped shama, red-crested cardinal, Java sparrow, yellow-fronted canary, zebra doves and rose-ringed parakeets. Many of these birds have been introduced to the Hawaiian Islands from other tropical areas.
Rose-ringed parakeets and red-vented bulbuls originate from India and Sri Lanka and red-crested cardinals originated in South America, Java sparrows were introduced from Indonesia and yellow-fronted canaries are originally from Africa. If I was feeling homesick, I just had to walk out of the hotel door and encounter a few hundred common mynas or spotted doves, both of which thrive around Waikiki, and both that inhabit my Ocean Grove garden.
I spent most of my free time in Waikiki looking for white terns or common fairy-terns, which can be seen around the Pacific Ocean. This beautiful seabird nests in trees around the shopping centres and urban areas of Waikiki and Honolulu. They do not construct nests in trees but rather, lay their eggs in forks or cups in the branches of the trees. Apparently, they choose trees that are surrounded by tall buildings as this gives the birds and nestlings
13TH BEACH ACCESS STAIRS REPLACEMENT PROJECT
Plans to replace the access stairs at 13th Beach have been announced, with work set to commence on October 28. The existing stairs, located at “The Hole” 13th Beach (THI139) are approaching the end of their serviceable life. The project, slated for completion by mid-December, will also include minor upgrades to the adjacent car park. These improvements aim to enhance safety measures and improve local amenities.
some protection from climbing predators such as rats.
The other indigenous bird that was commonlyseenaroundWaikikiwasthePacific golden plover. This bird breeds in Alaska from April to July and then disperses to southern regions in the northern winter months. They arrive in Hawaii in August.
Some of these birds fly all the way to Thirteenth Beach in Barwon Heads from Siberia, arriving in September.
I saw Pacific golden plovers at the Honolulu Zoo, at the wedding in Kualoa Ranch, and on just about any grassed area on the island.
I brought a map of Oahu and noticed that there was a lake called the Enchanted Lake Bird Sanctuary. On my last free day I caught an Uber to the sanctuary, where I saw a few lovely birds, including Hawaiian ducks, Hawaiian stilts, Hawaiian coots, black-crowned night heronsandtheHawaiiangallinuleormoorhen.
During the works period, visitors should be aware that the stairs will be closed to public access. Additionally, there may be disruptions to the car park and nearby pathway.
Please plan accordingly and use alternative beach access points during the construction period. These upgrades will significantly improve the beach experience for all users for the busy summer season and beyond.
Learn more via the QR code or the link below. www.barwoncoast.com.au/13th-beach-accessstairs-replacement-project
We are seeking a full-time Caravan Park Maintenance Officer who will play an important role in supporting Barwon Coast maintain and protect our coastal reserves and caravan parks. Applications close on Sunday, 27 October. Head to www.barwoncoast.com.au/work-with-us to find out more and apply.
I really tried very hard to spot some other seabirds, including albatross, frigatebirds, boobies and tropicbirds, but alas I failed dismally to see any of these iconic birds. Next time I will have to be more organised and book a pelagic boat trip off the coast of Hawaii to see some of these birds, or maybe stowaway on one of the cruise ships that sail between Hawaii and Sydney.
I’ve also been in New Orleans for the past few days, where I’ve seen black vultures, ospreys, great egrets, great blue herons, one woodpecker, chickadees, tufted titmouses and laughing gulls.
We went on a swamp tour where there were alligators and families of raccoons, which was great to see. I have a few observations about the USA. When you go to a restaurant or buy a coffee, even if you are eating in, you are served in a take-away cup or on plastic plates with plastic cutlery.
Everything seems to go in the rubbish and there does not seem to be any recycling going on. In New Orleans and Memphis there is rubbish everywhere, all around the great Mississippi River.
InmyabsenceIheardfromLynettewholives in Thacker Street. The wood ducks that nest in the yellow gums around her property hatched some ducklings and Lynette helped the family make their way to Blue Waters Lake. She never did discover the hollow where they nested. I also received an email from Allie from Ocean Grove who sent me a photo of a bird in her garden that I couldn’t identify and then Allie emailed me back to say that the bird was a blue-faced parrot finch. This bird, which is usually found in north-eastern Australia, was quite obviously an escaped caged bird, so Allie was going to try and catch it, but I’m not sure if she has been able to do so.
JOIN US IN CARING FOR THE COAST!
There are many ways to help protect our beautiful coast as a volunteer. We work closely with passionate local community groups, such as Ocean Grove Coastcare, Breamlea Coastcare, Coast Watch Ocean Grove, EstuaryWatch (Barwon River), Friends of the Bluff and Friends of the Lobster Pot. These groups are always welcoming new members. Whether you have just an hour to spare or want to get involved more regularly, there’s a role that can fit your interests and schedule.
Everyone has something to offer, and it’s a great way to give back while enjoying the outdoors.
If you’re new to the area or simply looking to get involved in the community, enquire about joining one of these friendly groups.
For more information, please head to our website: www.barwoncoast.com.au/volunteer
Jen’s Hawaiian common fairy-tern, and inset, Hawaiian stilt.
CHILD ONLINE SAFETY FORUM
Women’s, kids facility designs released
The state government has released designs for Geelong’s $500 million Barwon Women’s and Children’s.
Dubbed as the biggest health infrastructure project in Geelong’s history, it will be built within Barwon Health’s University Hospital Geelong precinct.
The designs provide an early look at the new maternity ward, inpatient rooms and play spaces within the contemporary, purpose-built facility.
With additional multi-day beds, birthing suites, operating theatres, and outpatient clinic rooms, the project will increase capacity to provide care for women and children once complete.
A new neonatal and parent care unit will also expand the capacity and function of the hospital’s existing special care nursery to provide care for sick and pre-term babies in the first few weeks and months of life.
Delivered by the Victorian Health Building Authority in partnership with Barwon Health, Lyons Architecture and Built, construction on the new Barwon Women’s and Children’s is expected to be complete in 2029.
“I would like to thank everyone who has contributed their ideas towards the project to date,andinparticularthecommunityadvisory group – the Barwon Women’s and Children’s will truly reflect our community,” Member for Geelong Christine Couzens said.
Locals across the region have helped to inform the designs, contributing more than 600 ideas for the new health service.
The input captured has been shared with the project’s architects for consideration as they continue to develop the facility’s designs – the final designs are expected to be completed late this year, along with the commencement of main construction works.
“We’re delivering the new Barwon Women’s and Children’s in the growing Geelong region, ensuring families will be able to get the very best maternity and paediatric care, closer to home,” Minister for Health Infrastructure Mary-Anne Thomas said.
“It’s critically important we build a facility that represents the community it serveswhich is why we’re listening to the community to shape this flagship project for the region.”
Full steam ahead for railway
All systems are a go for the Portarlington Bayside Miniature Railway, with upgrades set to occur thanks to funding from the City of Greater Geelong.
The railway received $19,300 through the council’s Community Infrastructure Fund for important refurbishment works.
Secretary Brian Coleman said he was glad to receive the funding for the railway to purchase new plastic sleepers, a ballast, and new fencing and to make improvements to its signalling and security lighting.
“The funding will help us with our infrastructure to do track maintenance, put up a new fence and some security lighting, and all the little bits and pieces,” he said.
“This was the little kick in the backside for us to achieve a few things and keep the railway going for the future, and the railway can now
set about earnestly over the next 12 months to do upgrades.”
Mr Coleman said the railway was always looking for more volunteers, and a job was available for everyone.
“We’realwaysinterestedinhavingvolunteers come to help us. So, if anybody’s got some time to spare on the weekend or on our working weekdays,we’dliketohearfromthem,”hesaid. “Volunteersarealwayswelcomedownhereand we do the training, so they don’t need to come trained or qualified...and there’s absolutely no barrier as we’re not discriminatory in any way.”
People can email Mr Coleman at brianblocko1@bigpond.com for more information about volunteering at the Portarlington Bayside Miniature Railway.
Jena Carr
Brian Coleman in the signal box. (Ivan Kemp) 399216_08
Maternity ward.
Out and about
Voice photographer Ivan Kemp had the tough assignment of venturing to the Geelong waterfront on a blissful Wednesday afternoon to see who was out and about.
1/ Justin and Amelia McCallum with their children Grace and Sophie. 2/ Courtney Fowler with her daughter Mila. 3/ Makayla Hamilton enjoys an icy-pole in the warm weather.
4/ Georgia McCaffrey and Cody Mann. 5/ Jayde Lenoble with her daughter Dakota.
6/ Kayla Campbell with her son Ziggie and Brooke Forrest with her daughter Sophia. 7/ Ayaad Almansor takes time out to fish. 8/ Henry Duxbury and Stacie Peterson visiting from Ballarat. 9/ Wilton and Linda McDonald with Cooper and Argo. 10/ Tracey and Peter Kendall from Queensland on their way to Tasmania. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 437982
Experience the difference with Leisure Options DISABILITY SERVICES
In the vast landscape of supported travel providers, the task of choosing one that’s just right for you can be quite a daunting task.
With an ever-growing number of operators in the market, each with their unique differences, it’s crucial to make a well-informed decision as your travel experience can ultimately hinge on selecting a company that not only meets your specific needs but also ensures you receive the best travel experience possible.
Leisure Options stands out as an IATA accredited, fully licensed travel agency and a NDIS registered service provider with over 30 years’ expertise in providing unforgettable supported travel adventures and relaxing respite stays.
Being solely focused on travel and respite packages, the dedicated team offers comprehensive industry and destination knowledge ensuring your travel requirements are met with meticulously crafted itineraries that enhance your experience within your capabilities, guaranteeing a memorable and enjoyable getaway.
Leisure Options prides itself on creating truly memorable experiences for each of their travellers by specialising in small group itineraries that ensure that you can actively participate whilst receiving the necessary care and support to succeed in your travel goals.
With a view to creating a family-like atmosphere whilst on tour luxury houses or apartments are selected wherever possible and throughout the holiday, culinary needs are met with three delicious meals daily.
Dining experiences include a mix of inhouse dining and dining at local restaurants and cafes. Dietary needs are fully catered for, promotinghealthchoicesanddiversecuisines.
Leisure Option’s tour leaders are committed
Leisure Option’s tour leaders are committed to delivering exceptional service and authentic experiences. (Pictures: Supplied)
todeliveringexceptionalserviceandauthentic experiences, making each holiday truly unforgettable. Their unique knowledge of the destinations visited ensures that you can relax and enjoy your journey. Tour leaders all have
appropriate accreditations and NDIS checks. Respite and travel packages are available throughout Australia and beyond and the team can assist with maximising your NDIS funding towards the support components of
your getaway. Travel options are available throughout Australia and beyond and the team can assist with maximising your NDIS funding towards the support components of your getaway.
DISABILITY SERVICES
Matching clients with the right behavioural support
Anna Treloar-Tanner and her team at Barwon Occupational Therapy in Victoria, Australia, provide a comprehensive approach to behavioural support through practitioners with Allied Health backgrounds and many years of experience.
Central to their philosophy is the belief that all behaviour is a form of communication. By understanding the purpose behind challengingbehaviours,theteamcollaborates with clients and their families to implement adaptive strategies that effectively meet the clients’ needs.
Anna Treloar-Tanner leads Barwon Occupational Therapy with a commitment to personalising support for diverse clients, many of whom are neurodiverse, including those with autism, ADHD, bipolar disorder, and other neurological conditions. Anna’s approach, as an Endorsed Mental Health Occupational Therapist, emphasises understanding clients rather than changing them.
Recognising that all behaviour serves as a form of communication shifts the focus from suppressing or altering behaviours to understanding their underlying functions. Identifying why a behaviour occurs and what needs it fulfils is essential.
The team works extensively with clients and their families to identify the functions of challenging behaviours and to implement functionally equivalent replacement behaviours—adaptive behaviours designed to meet the same needs as the original behaviours in a more constructive manner. Their holistic approach ensures that support is comprehensive and effective. By addressing both psychological and social aspects of clients’ lives, the team collaborates with carers, schools, and other agencies,
providing consistent support across various environments. Their methodology prioritises non-pharmacological interventions, functioning as a “scaffolding” that adapts to each individual’s needs in diverse settings. Respect and a non-judgmental ethos underpin the team’s practice. Anna
emphasises advocacy for clients, reframing what might be perceived as problematic behaviours through the lens of clients’ needs and perspectives. Her personal insights as a parent of neurodiverse children inform her approach, implementing strategies that benefit the entire family.
Barwon Occupational Therapy embodies a comprehensive, empathetic, and adaptive approach to behavioural support. By viewing behaviour as communication and working closely with clients to adaptively meet their needs, the team provides high-quality, respectful, and effective interventions.
Barwon Occupational Therapy’s Anna Treloar-Tanner. (Ivan Kemp) 423811_05
Hannah’s brilliant acting career
Stage and screen actor Hannah Fredericksen moved to Geelong a year and a half ago. She spoke to Matt Hewson about life in the entertainment industry and falling in love with Geelong.
Hannah Fredericksen’s acting career has seen her involved in all levels of the craft, from independent theatre and short roles in local television series to four years in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, Australia’s longest running musical.
The nature of the acting business has meant Hannah has travelled far and often, and only last month she returned to her home in Geelong after playing Molly Ralston for a five-month national tour of Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap.
Born and raised in Brisbane, Hannah was the lucky recipient of “a really beautiful childhood”.
Hannah said she had been drawn to entertaining people from a very early age.
“Some of my first memories are of trying to make my family laugh; I always loved making my mum laugh, and I still really enjoy doing that,” she said. “I’m one of three kids, and I have very few memories of not being able to be outsidebecausetheweatherwassogreatallthe time, so I was playing on the street with other kids, lots of singing and dancing.
‘‘ The thing I love about theatre is that it’s live ... The risk and the adrenaline of it is kind of addictive ’’
- Hannah Fredericksen
“I grew up loving performing and I was really entrenched in the amateur theatre scene in Brisbane. Whenever I would meet other creative kids I felt like I had found my people.”
When Hannah was 12 she joined Brisbane Arts Theatre, and her first performance was playing a princess in a production of Puss In Boots.
“I loved that we would finish the show and then I got to go out as the princess and sign autographs for all these kids,” she said.
“I remember that feeling of performing on stage for the first time, I really loved that… and it was like a bug.”
“When I announced I was going to audition for drama schools when I finished year 12, I think my parents thought I wouldn’t get in becauseIwassoyoung,Iwasonly17.Andthey were thrilled but, I think, quite shocked when I got in, and then obviously they had to help me move away.”
Hannah went to the Victorian College of Arts (VCA) to complete a Bachelor of Music Theatre,graduatingin2011,whichshesaidwas an “amazing” experience.
“(The VCA) is a hive of creatives; you’ve got everybody from the musical theatre stream, to somebody studying composition, to sculpture
artists, and everyone sitting in the one cafeteria,” she said.
“Ididsomanyoddjobs.Ididalotofbusking at the South Melbourne market, I used to sing with my guitar there… I’d have money in a literal bucket and then I’d count it to see if I could afford a flight home to Brisbane; I was quite homesick in that first year.
“I worked in the high rollers room at Crown, I did catering jobs, I handed out leaflets for gyms. That’s the thing as an actor, you live many lives. I’ve made a lot of coffees.”
With her degree in hand, Hannah was “quietlyhopeful”aboutthecareeraheadofher.
“The first show I did was called City of Angels, a really great musical, that was on at the (Melbourne) Arts Centre for maybe five shows over a weekend,” she said.
“And then I had a long stretch until maybe the end of the following year where I wasn’t booking anything and I remember being like, gosh, is this what it’s going to be like?
“I remember really prolific actors coming in to talk to us in our final year of drama school and saying, it is going to be really hard and you
will have to have other jobs, there’s just not enough work in this industry.
“I think every person sits there thinking, yeah, but I’ll be the exception to that rule, that won’t be me. And then of course, inevitably, it is. So that was my first shock at what that felt like to experience that level of rejection.”
Fortunately, that period came to an end. Hannah soon found herself acting alongside David Wenham and Jacqueline McKenzie in prolific Australian filmmaker Paul Cox’s final film before his death, Force of Destiny.
Her big break in musical theatre came along in 2016 when she won the role of Sandra Dee in Dream Lover, starring opposite David Campbell as Bobby Darrin.
The show was a hit; Hannah received a Sydney Theatre Award nomination for the role, while the soundtrack won an ARIA and Campbell took the award for Best Male Actor in a Musical in the 2018 Helpmann Awards following the show’s return season in Melbourne.
Since then Hannah has worked solidly, again on stage alongside Campbell in Stephen
Sondheim’s Assassins, as Olivia Newton-John in Logie award-winning mini-series Molly, on SyFy Network’s Hunters and playing Moaning Myrtle in Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. She said had been “really lucky” to work so much in the twin media of stage and screen, but each had its pros and cons.
“The thing I love about theatre is that it’s live; that show, with that particular group of people in the audience, will never be repeated again,”shesaid.“Theriskandtheadrenalineof it is kind of addictive in that way, what you do whensomethinggoeswrong,anditdoesallthe time. It’s such an old art form and I don’t think it will ever go away because of that.
“And (in film) you get to explore a character further than you potentially do in two and a half hours on stage. If you play something for a long period of time you get to really stretch to the fullness of the character’s experience.”
In early 2023 Hannah found herself relocating from Melbourne to Geelong, a move sheneitherexpectednor,byherownadmission, thought she would ever want to make.
The reason, of course, was love. In a story straight out of a modern musical, Hannah connected with her partner Kane, a Geelong teacher, on her very first foray into online dating.
“Kane was my first online app date; I’d never used the apps before, and I obviously didn’t know how to use them properly because I had mine set to over 100km radius,” she said.
“So he came up in Geelong… we decided to meet for coffee and the rest is history.
“We laugh now, because I think maybe on the third date I told him, if this goes anywhere I’m never moving here, just so you know.
“He was like, okay, okay, and then obviously here I am. And I’ve really fallen in love with it, it’s a beautiful place to live. It feels like a really thriving, creative place and that’s sort of taken me by surprise.”
A month after returning from The Mousetrap tour, Hannah has settled back into a routine of teaching acting at her home studio and recording narrations of audiobooks.
And what’s next on the horizon for Hannah?
“We’llsee-that’sthebeautyandtheterrorof this career, I never really know,” she said.
“I could tell you about the next three weeks, but I definitely couldn’t even tell you about the next three months. In January I never would havethoughtIwouldbetouringforsixmonths on The Mousetrap.
“I might eat my hat, but I don’t think I’ll ever be in a really structured job, I think I’ll always be piecing things together.
“It’s like a patchwork quilt; some years the quilt has lots of holes and is sort of falling apart, and some years it’s really colourful and amazingandunexpected,andIguessthat’sthe kind of life I love.”
Right: Hannah as Molly Ralston in Agatha Christie’s The Mousetrap. (Supplied)
Hannah Fredericksen. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 434811
Left: Rachael Caldwell and Rohan Nayer with Toby. Centre: Peter and Judy Robertson. Right, top to bottom: Jurriaan Lochtenberg and Renata Martins; Peter Wood; Helen Moye. (Ivan Kemp) 437484
Heather Shalliker and Joan Knott.
Snap up a snapper
October is the start of snapper season and if you or anyone you know comes back from the bay with a haul, here’s how you can put these tasty fish to good use in the kitchen.
LEURA PARK ESTATE
Artisan wines without compromise
• Sensational setting
• Stunning pizzas, platters & fresh local fare
• Live Music Sundays
• Wine Tastings
• Open Thurs - Sunday 11am - 5pm
1400 Portarlington Rd, Curlewis 03 5253 3180 leuraparkestate.com.au
12606035-SN21-23
FLYING BRICK CIDER CO
Funky, Fabulous, Fun.
• Landmark Bellarine venue
• Innovative space
• Delicious food
• 100% naturally crafted ciders
• Luxurious grounds & vineyard
• OPEN 7 Days 11am-5pm 1251 Bellarine Hwy, Wallington 03 5250 6577 flyingbrickciderco.com.au
12606701-KG21-23
BAKED SNAPPER WITH LEMON AND HERBS
Ingredients
1 whole snapper (about 1.3kg), cleaned and scaled 2 tablespoons olive oil
2 lemons (one for juice, one sliced)
4 cloves garlic, minced
Fresh herbs (such as parsley, thyme, or dill), chopped Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: cherry tomatoes or olives for garnish
Method
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 190°C.
Prepare the snapper: Rinse the snapper under cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Make three diagonal cuts on each side of the fish, about 2.5cm apart.
Season the fish: In a small bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, juice of one lemon, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the fish, including inside the cavity and into the cuts.
Add herbs and lemon: Stuff the cavity of the fish with fresh herbs and some lemon slices. You can also place a few lemon slices on top of the fish.
Bake: Place the fish on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or in a baking dish. Bake for about 25 to 30 minutes, or until the flesh is opaque and flakes easily with a fork.
Serve: Carefully transfer the fish to a serving platter. Garnish with additional herbs, cherry tomatoes, or olives if desired. Serve with extra lemon wedges on the side.
Tips:
• You can add vegetables like asparagus or zucchini to the baking sheet for a complete meal.
• Serve with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up the juices.
• Enjoy your flavourful baked snapper.
JACK RABBIT VINEYARD
• Iconic Bellarine winery
• Unrivalled panoramic views
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• Lunch / Wine Tastings
• OPEN 7 Days
85 McAdams Lane, Bellarine 03 5251 2223 jackrabbitvineyard.com.au
12606706-RR21-23
THE RANGE @CURLEWIS
Finesse your form or just for fun.
• Lunch / Dinner / Snacks
• Burger, Beverage & Balls packages
• Barista coffe, beer, wine & cocktails
• OPEN 7 days
1201 Portarlington Rd, Curlewis Ph 5251 1111 curlewisgolf.com.au
FROM THE ARCHIVES
Ocean Grove Voice looks back through the pages of our predecessors
8 years ago
October 12 to 25, 2016
Crime in Ocean Grove increased by 9.2 per cent during the last financial year. Crime figures across the entire Bellarine Peninsula surged, but State Police Minister and Bellarine MP Lisa Neville said the figures needed to be judged in context.
6 years ago
October 24 to November 6, 2018
Ocean Grove’s notorious Grubb Rd and Adco Grove intersection was a hot topic at Ocean Grove Community Association’s and Regional Roads Victoria’s most recent meeting. The intersection was also a cause ofconcernformanyoftheapproximately70 residents who participated in the Regional Roads Victoria forum held on 9 November on the future upgrading of Grubb Road and Tuckfield Street.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
4 years ago
October 23 to November 5, 2020
Local charities are stepping up to combat the food shortage inflicted by COVID-19. LatestfiguresfromtheVictorianCouncilof Social Service poverty map show that more thanonein10residentsinCorangamiteare living in poverty.
1 year ago
October 20 to November 2, 2023
Barwon Heads Arts Council’s Bellarine Arts Trail 2023 will launch this weekend with an exhibition of participating artists’ works at the Barwon Heads Arts Hub. RunningovertheMelbourneCupweekend, the Bellarine Arts Trail features the works of nearly 80 artists at 45 venues in and aroundBarwonHeads,OceanGrove,Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff.
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.
Jukebox Rockers
Dance at Club Italia, Moolap, Saturday November 2, 7.30-11.30pm.
0432 503 997, or trybooking.com
Croquet
Drysdale Bowling & Croquet Club, Clifton Springs Road, Tuesdays from 10am for training, bring a friend.
0428 740 591
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
Bellarine country music
Friday nights, music 7pm-10pm. Great band, walk ups welcome. Belmont Park Pavilion, entry $10.
CWA Nightlights Ocean Grove
CWA Nightlights Ocean Grove meets the first and third Monday of the month, 2.30pm, Seniors Club, 102 The Terrace, Ocean Grove. All welcome.
Kareen, 0419 246 346, or Janis, 5255 4585
Chess clubs
For chess fun simply come along and see yourself, play some chess, meet some members, with no obligation to join. We welcome players of all abilities. Ocean Grove, Tuesdays at 1.30pm at 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove; Portarlington, Mondays at 9.30am, Parks Hall, 87 Newcombe Street, Portarlington; and St
Book club
Leopold CAE book club meets second Tuesday each month from 6.30pm. Very friendly group. New members welcome.
Shirley, 0488 055 969
Leonards, Thursdays at 9.30am, unit 2 1375-1377 Murradoc Road, (on Blanche Street), St Leonards.
Ralph, 0431 458 100 (Ocean Grove), Rob, 5259 2290 (Portarlington), Lyn, 5292 2162 (St Leonards)
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
Carpet bowls
Leopold Hall 805-809 Bellarine Highway, Leopold on Wednesday and Friday 1-3.15pm. Admission: $4 includes afternoon tea.
0400 500 402
Scottish country dancing classes
GOG Scottish Country Dance classes
7.30pm Tuesdays at Leopold Hill Hall,
$5. No partner needed, just comfy casual clothing and flat shoes.
Jane, 0481 126 022, or Barbara, 0419 511 781
Ocean Grove Senior Citizens 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove Weekly
Tuesday: snooker 1pm, chess, indoor bowls 1.15pm. Wednesday: bingo 1.15pm, ukulele class 2pm, guitar jam session 4pm. Thursday: snooker 1pm, cards 500, social afternoons 1.15pm. Friday: art classes 9am.
Fortnightly
CWA 1st and 3rd Monday 2.30pm
Kareen, 0419 246 346, or Janis, 5255 4585 Monthly
Inhouse Movies 3rd Wednesday 1.30pm.
Dianne, 5255 1372
Cards
Ocean Grove Seniors play card game 500 every Thursday at 1.15pm. If you are new to the game a quick lesson will get you in play. The core group of six players adjust to any number and you will enjoy the friendship of like-minded players. Cost: $30 annually and coffee included. At 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove.
Dianne, 5255 1372
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
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 on Barwon Probus Meets 9.45am for 10am every third Wednesday at Ocean Grove Golf Club.
gwen.anne.james@gmail.com
Drysdale Ladies Probus Club Meets at 10.30am on the fourth Monday of each month at the Clifton Springs Golf Club.
Lorraine, 0412 805 858
Afternoon tea dance
Life Activities Club [Geelong Inc] hosts an afternoon tea dance on Thursdays, 2-4pm, at Belmont Park Pavilion. Entry: $5.
5251 3529
CWA Drysdale Meets Drysdale RSL, Princess Street, Drysdale on the second Tuesday of the month. Meetings start at 1pm followed by afternoon tea. Friendly group looking to recruit new members.
Jenni, 0452 258 333
Out and about
Voice photographer Ivan Kemp went to Ocean Grove main beach on a glorious Tuesday October15 to see who was out and about.
1/ Kayla Shepherd takes a break from studying. 2/ Tameka Bast strides out. 3/ Jane Edwards, Ryan O’Neil and Nessa Spillane, visitors from Ireland. 4/ Phoebe Malone. 5/ Parry Kataria and Shaira Camille Guintivano. 6/ Brendon Ross. 7/ Danny and Ivana Autel. 8/ Rhonda Hussey. 9/ Diane Amezdroz and daughter Bec. 10/ Steve and Debbie Chesterton. 11/ John Cuffe and 12-year old Lily. 12/ Mark Steiner. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 437479
PUZZLES
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
ACROSS
1 Underground railway (6)
4 Made a watery sound (8)
9 Member of a Jamaican religious movement (5)
10 Progressed (9)
11 Follow (5)
12 Doppelganger (4-5)
13 Primula vulgaris (8)
15 Heralds (6)
16 Beginner (6)
18 US state (8)
23 Texting (9)
24 Venetian explorer, – Polo (5)
26 Contribute (9)
27 Synthetic fibre (5)
28 Evening prayer (8)
29 US state (6)
DOWN
1 Distribute (food) (5,2)
2 Transport vehicles (5)
3 Dabbler (7)
5 Russian who studied reflexes (6)
6 Long-spouted containers (7)
7 Pleasure (9)
8 Bumper cars (7)
10 Wooded valleys (5)
14 Incapable of being seen (9)
16 Hindu greeting (7)
17 Odds (7)
19 Bird of prey (5)
20 Its capital is Bucharest (7)
21 Quantities (7)
22 Sight (6)
25 Parts in plays (5)
1 To which plant family does lavender belong?
2 In what year did Radiohead release their first single Creep?
3 Which Australian actor played Viggo Mortensen’s (pictured) son in the film adaptation of Cormac McCarthy’s novel The Road?
4 Red Leicester, Tilsit and Bel Paese are all types of what?
5 How many flea species can fly?
6 Which disco group included members Victor Willis, Randy Jones and Glenn Hughes?
7 Who painted Les toits de Collioure in 1905?
8 Is the state of Karnataka in the southern or northern part of India?
9 What part of the body does the word buccal refer to?
10 Which large seabird has been known to live for more than 50 years?
No. 208 No. 207
Trades & Services
ACCOUNTING SERVICES
Roche Accounting5256 2764
ANTENNAS
Arrow Antennas0439 785 703
Kendall Antenna Services0404 019 781
AUTOMOTIVE
Auto Care Ocean Grove (Repco)5255 1045
Gardiner Automotive5255 5380
BUILDING DESIGNERS
Michael Higgins Building Design5255 3355
BUTCHERS
Benno’s Meating Place5254 1828
CHIMNEY SWEEPS
A1 Chimney Sweep & Co0426 897 479
CONVEYANCING
Surfside Conveyancing Pty Ltd5255 5556
Vines Conveyancing5255 4480
CLEANING AND LAUNDRY
Aussie Cleaning & Laundry0430 215 264
DENTAL
Drysdale Denture Services
Ryan Davies & Andrew Irving5251 1683
Ocean Grove Denture Services
Ryan Davies & Andrew Irving5255 4533
FLOORING
Bellarine Flooring5255 2044
RATINGS
Looks: 8/10
Performance: 7/10
Safety: 7/10
Thirst: 5/10
Practicality: 8/10
Comfort: 5/10
Tech: 7/10
Value: 7/10
Land Cruiser, a trusted workhorse
By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
If the new Land Cruiser were any more last century, it would be rolling on solid rubber tyres.
After 40 years or so, the 70 Series is still holding its own among the gentrified HiLux, Navara, Ranger and Triton upstarts.
Toyota’s 70 Series has survived beyond its original intended lifespan and 76, 78 and 79 Series Land Cruisers have received ad hoc upgrades from a far-from-enthusiastic maker.
The latest ’79’ is no exception, adding a 2.8-litre turbodiesel engine option from top-selling sibling, the HiLux, mated with a six-speed automatic transmission, to the V8 turbodiesel, five-speed manual variants. In addition, the upgraded 70 Series brings fresh styling, an upgrade in safety and comfort and convenience features, plus a multimedia boost.
On offer are three Single Cab grades, Workmate, GX and GXL – and two grades, WorkmateandGXLfortheDoubleCab,Troop Carrier and Wagon variants. Prices start at $75,600 plus on-road costs for the WorkMate 76 Series Wagon. On test was the GX Cab Chassis, priced at $78,800.
Toyota Australia Vice President Sales, Marketing and Franchise Operations Sean Hanley says: “The introduction of the new powertrain will not only broaden the appeal of the 70 Series range to more customers, but helps reduce weight, improve payload and reduce fuel consumption compared to the V8, delivering on customer demands.”
A cost option for the GX Single-Cab Chassis and WorkMate Double-Cab Chassis is front and /rear diff locks ($1500). Premium paint is $675. The upgraded Land Cruiser 70 Series is covered by a five-year/unlimited kilometre Toyota Warranty Advantage.
This earns an extension to seven years on engine and driveline, with capped-price servicing for the first five years or 100,000 kilometres, whichever comes first, and each six-month 10,000 service costing $525.
Styling
The updated LandCruiser 70 Series is immediatelyrecognisablethankstoitsupdated exterior styling, a reflection of previous
generations of LandCruiser. On the other hand, the halogen headlamp cluster has been replaced by circular LED headlamps with manual levelling and automatic high beam, while outboard turning lamps once again hark back to the pre-2007 70 Series.
Automatic high beam dims the intense beams if the system detects a vehicle in front and will automatically reactivate the high beams once the vehicle is gone.
A new square grille with a black mesh pattern and T-O-Y-O-T-A lettering sits above a three-slot cooling vent inspired by the 75 Series Land Cruiser cousin, with a small hood vent above the grille borrowed from the original 40 Series model.
Widebumperandblackwraparoundfenders give the 70 Series a beefy stance and sense of stability, paired on GX and GXL grades with dark grey metallic 16-inch alloy wheels.
The tester was fitted with a drop-sided flatbed, which was given a fair workout with numerous trips (far more than needed with a conventional tub) to the tip, carting storm damaged landscaping. Also see tow rating (below).
Interior
The new automatic transmission herald’s inbuilt convenience with a new centre console consisting of a lidded centre storage bin, cupholder and compartments taking small items.
WorkMate and GX variants are upholstered in durable vinyl trim, while GXL grades gain
grey fabric material.
Infotainment
The retro-inspired changes continue inside the cabin with a new-look instrument cluster designed to resemble the speedometer of the 40 Series, with the addition of a 4.2-inch colour multi-information display.
A new 6.7-inch multimedia system is compatible with wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and offers hands-free smartphonepairingsupportedbynewswitches mounted on the steering wheel.
Belowtheair-conditioningunit,a12Vpower outlet, two USB-C ports on GXL and bank of switches provide extra functionality and smartphone charging options.
Engines/transmissions
The new 2.8-litre four-cylinder powertrain has beenprovenovertheyearsinnumerousToyota 4×4 models and produces 150kW at 3400rpm and 500Nm from 1600 to 2800rpm, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Multiple mechanical changes have been made to the engine to ensure optimal cooling and performance in tough conditions and under heavy loads, with all 70 Series models maintaining a strong 3500kg braked towing rating.
Safety
The comprehensive update also ushers in new safety features, starting with lane departure alert which issues audible warnings if the
system detects the vehicle is leaving its lane. Road sign assist is linked with the multi-information display to read speed signs and display the current speed limit, which can be used to alert drivers if they are exceeding the speed limit by reversing the colours on the display.
The new features join the existing Toyota Safety Sense features including the Pre-Collision System with pedestrian and daytime cyclist detection and intersection assistance.
Driving
The Land Cruiser 79 is no tradie Titan – good for hauling a trailer full of tools during the week, then putting on a new face to show off itsshinyselfinfrontofthelattesippingSunday congregation.
For almost half a century it’s been a dependable piece of agricultural/mining equipment more at home delivering fodder or lick blocks to stock in some far-off paddock. So how does it go on the bitumen? Not the best.
As we know from the past, the Land Cruiser 70 Series is equipped with a part-time 4×4 system with low-range gearing, live axles and front coil suspension, anathema to smooth going on the high street or highway.
The auto transmission shift and 4WD transfer case lever shared handily placed spots on the transmission tunnel, while the former was easily flicked sideways into manual mode. Average fuel consumption hovered between 11.6 and 9.2 litres per 100 kilometres on the road.
Automatic lane-keeping, a feature of many new vehicles, was limited to a ‘beep’ when inadvertent wandering was detected. No overbearing steering action here.
The diesel particulate filter automatically set to work getting rid of crap a couple of times during the test period. It had next to no effect on the vehicle performance while this was going on.
Summary
With tradition to the fore and minor refinements to standard driver systems the LC70 Series has every right to remain the trusted workhorse of the LandCruiser cohort.
The LC70 Series has every right to remain the trusted workhorse of the LandCruiser cohort. (Pictures: Supplied)
Juniors’ summer hits off
LOCAL TENNIS
Donna Schoenmaekers
Saturday summer seasons kicked off for Junior and Senior pennants this week, with more than 1100 players in more than 300 teams participating across the day.
Summer is the time many beginners start the game, especially with younger players, and this year is no exception with two orange ball andfivegreenballsectionshelpingsomeofour newer players into competition.
Both of these formats allow new players to learn valuable match play skills while still developing their hand-eye coordination and technique. Orange ball uses low compression balls on a smaller court, producing a lower
bounce and better opportunity for rallies. It is also a great opportunity for parents to help their children, and themselves, learn the game by acting as umpires to help keep the matches flowing. It is also great for younger siblings who aren’t quite ready to join in yet, as they can act as ball kids, helping their engagement with the sport.
Green ball is played on a full court, but with a ball of low compression, and again due to the lowerbounceandslowerspeed,facilitatesmore rallies and better match play exposure.
Barwon Heads have eight teams within these two modified formats this season, and attracted the attention of Tennis Australia (TA), who realising the importance of these two introductory options, are looking to
encourage growth of these programs across the country and wanted to see first hand how the competitions are delivered within Tennis Geelong at Barwon Heads.
A small group from TA attended Saturday’s morning session at Barwon Heads talking to playersandparentsfromtheclubsinattendance about their thoughts on the competitions they are participating in.
Club coach Jason Schoenmaekers and assistant Rebekah Schoenmaekers were also interviewed about what they see as the benefits to player development and retention. With four matches across the two formats, TA got exactly what they were looking for to promote the game across the country, and give all these players a great thrill both on and off the court.
Cats’ finals hopes are all but over
Emelia Yassir has kicked three goals to lead Richmond to a thrilling seven-point AFLW win over Geelong in a result that has killed off the Cats’ slim finals hopes.
In a final quarter that featured five lead changes,lategoalstoYassirandKatieBrennan lifted Richmond to the 6.10(46) to 5.9(39) win at the Swinburne Centre in Melbourne.
The result improved the Tigers to 6-2 and put them right in the mix for a top-four berth. But Geelong, with two wins, five losses and one draw to its name, are almost certain to miss the finals even if it wins its remaining three games.
“I’m a bit in awe of what the girls put up, the fight we showed,“ Richmond’s Kate Dempsey told Fox Sports following the win in what was her 50-game milestone.
“We’ve owed Geelong a big game for a long time. They’re hard to beat. I can’t believe it.“
Star Richmond midfielder Monique Conti racked up 27 disposals, seven clearances and 1.3, while for Geelong it was forward
Aishling Moloney (23 disposals, one goal) who produced a dazzling display.
The match featured plenty of spice, and tempers threatened to boil over after the three-quarter-time siren when what started out as a push-and-shove resulted in players from both sides rushing in.
Geelong’s Nina Morrison and Claudia Gunjaca were in the thick of it, along with Richmond duo Caitlin Greiser and Eilish Sheerin.
The Cats won the inside-50m count 12-6 in the opening term with the aid of a strong breeze, but their only reward was a goal from Kate Surman for a 9-2 lead at the first break.
Yassir scored Richmond’s first goal early in the second quarter after taking a brave mark running with the flight of the ball, and Conti nailed a 40m set shot to give the Tigers a five-point edge at half-time.
Geelong’s Rachel Kearns was left with a swollen right eye and a game-ending concussion following an accidental clash
Bailey Smith lands at Cattery
Western Bulldogs star Bailey Smith will go to Geelong after a last-gasp AFL trade was struck.
With about five minutes left before the 7.30pm AEDT deadline on Wednesday night, news came through that the deal had been struck after months of expectation. Also in the last hour of the trade period, Essendon forward Jake Stringer was offloaded to GWS after it had appeared that
deal had fallen through. Tom Barrass goes from West Coast to Hawthorn, Luke Parker and Jacob Konstanty have departed Sydney to join North Melbourne, and Caleb Daniel also joins the Kangaroos from the Bulldogs. In other late trades, James Peatling heads from GWS to Adelaide and Jack Macrae finally has his wish, of leaving the Bulldogs for St Kilda.
Moloney’s strong mark on the behind line and subsequent goal in the third quarter helped give Geelong a two-point lead heading into the final change.
The danger signs were there for Geelong early in the final quarter as Richmond pushed hard with a series of re-entries.
Brennanthoughtshehadscoreda goal, only for her snap to be touched on the line.
Then Conti’s flying shot from 65m rolled into the post, levelling the scores with more than 14 minutes remaining.
Sheerin’s snap from the pocket gave the Tigersthelead,beforeKateDarbyputGeelong back in front with less than five minutes to go.
But Richmond came up trumps when it mattered most, with Yassir nailing a set shot from a tight angle, before Brennan put the icing on the cake with her late goal.
The inner harbour has still been offering some great fishing to those casting soft plastics either land based or from boats around the structures.
The waterfront is always a popular area to have a crack and in particular around Wangum Walk. Pinky snapper, Australian salmon, flathead, trevally, snook and more.
The grammar school lagoon has also fished very well this past week with good numbers of pinkies kicking around snatching up soft plastics. Fish to 2kg have been landed here recently and offers great shelter for small boat or kayak fishers.
Alcoa Pier has been fishing very well this past week with large numbers of Australian salmon patrolling the pier. Most fish are around the 30cm mark with still plenty of fish either side of the average.
The best bet to secure some of these guys is small 3” Minnow Profile soft plastics worked fast through the school. Some very impressive snapper are also being caught off the pier at the moment with snapper taking both soft plastics and bait. Fishing an evening or first/last light seems to be when they are biting best.
King George whiting are still going very good off the Curlewis bank and yes this is mentioned pretty much every week, but the fishing is still fantastic. About 4 metres of water seems to be the sweet spot for them at the moment and again, fishing the strong tides is key.
Queenscliff bight has had a great week on the XL calamari with reports starting to roll though to anglers fishing out that way. Casting size 3.5 and 4.0 jigs are the best bet when fishing here.
Thereareafewotherimportantfactors to put into place is ensuring the water clarityisgood,ideallysmalltidesandthe slacktideisbyfarthebesttimetofish.To find the slack tide, go off Williamstown tides to find the slacks.
Offshore snapper have continued to fish well offshore with great reports coming through when the weather permits. Gone Fishing Charters has been right amongst the action as per usual with the crew getting plenty of fish up to 4kg with some pleasant big catches such astigerflathead,gummysharksandeven the odd thresher shark.
Fishing Charters with a thresher
Bailey Smith joined the Cats at the end of trade deadline on Wednesday. (AAP Image/Joel Carrett)
of heads with Ellie McKenzie in the second quarter.
Justin Chadwick, AAP
Aishling Moloney. (AAP Image/Dave Hunt)
Cricket begins on the Bellarine
Voice photographer Ivan Kemp was at Drysdale and Portarlington Recreation Reserves on Saturday October 12 with the home clubs hosting Ocean Grove and Wallington respectively.
Above: Drysdale’s Xavier Jetson plays this delivery to fine leg. Right: Zac Jones celebrates taking a catch to dismiss Nick Hallam off Dan Roddis for a duck.
Bailey LeMaistre bowls to Xavier Jetson.
Left: Nick Hallam hits this delivery from Dan Roddis to mid-wicket and is caught. Centre: Ronnie Peillon is out lba to Campbell Snookes. Right: Jack Wilkinson dispatches Dan Roddis to the boundary.
Matt Sampson-Barnes’ elbow breaks the stumps allowing David Hambrook to make his ground.
Above: Buckley Hickey wonders how Nick Adamson kept the ball out.
Below: Stephen Illingworth lofts this ball to the boundary during his 84 not out. Right: Billy Gravett in action for the Wallabies.
Top: Tom Stewart in action for Portarlington.
Above: Matt Sampson-Barnes skies this delivery from James Tilders and is caught. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 436306
Walter drives Cobras to victory
By Justin Flynn
Corey Walter confirmed his standing as one of the best ever Bellarine Peninsula Cricket Association players with a masterful century for Collendina against Winchelsea.
Walter batted through the innings to be unbeaten on 109 from 123 deliveries as the Cobras made a decent total of 6/193.
“(I was) a bit rusty early and I haven’t been hitting the ball that well at training to be honest,” he said.
“So I probably just set myself to just try and bat through and the runs sort of started ticking along the more time you spend out there. Good togetanicescoreinthefirsthitwhichgetsyour season kicked off in the right way, I suppose.”
Walter had support from Aidan Foard (20) and Richard Brown (35 not out from 37 balls). Collendina was 6/117, but Walter and Brown
added an unbroken 76 for the seventh wicket.
“He (Foard) came in at the middle stage where they had (Shane) Murdoch bowling, who’s a quality bowler and spinner and he worked the ball around really well and hit
the bad ball for four and I thought he sort of changed the momentum a little bit,” Walter said. “Then we lost a clump of wickets again and Browny, I think externally he’s probably pigeonholed as just a big hitter who comes in at the end, he had 15 overs and the way he worked it around for five or six overs and then cashed in at the end and hit a couple over the fence. It was good for him to get a chance and spend some time out in the middle and get a nice score, which will hopefully set his season up really well.”
Collendina’s bowlers then did the job, skittling Winch all out for just 57.
Spinner Stan Grazotis didn’t let his diamond duck bother him to take three wickets while new-ballpairTedFarrellandGusPeterspicked up two each.
Debutante Jackson De Jong also grabbed his first two A Grade wickets for the club.
Wallabies hop to impressive triumph
Wallington began the new season with a spiritedrunchasethatresultedinawinagainst Portarlington.
Due to round 1 being a washout, round 2 on Saturday October 12 was the first hitout for all teams and the Wallabies would have been happy with their A2 Grade performance. Port won the toss and batted first and had good contributions from Riley Illingworth (30) and Cam Gourley (27), but at 5/99 the Demons were looking at a sub-par total.
Stephen Illingworth then resurrected the innings with a superb unbeaten 84 from 73 deliveries. He hit 10 boundaries and two sixes and had terrific support at the other end from David Hambrook, who finished not out on 27 from 43 balls.
The pair shared an unbroken partnership of 91 for the sixth wicket to push the final total up to a very competitive 5/190.
Adam Southorn took 3/37 from eight overs for Wallington while Dane Wise-Graham kept things tight with 1/23 from eight.
At 3/45, Wallington was in a bit of strife in its run chase although Sven Burluraux made a handy 22.
When Southorn departed for a well made 34, Wallington was 5/111 and Port was on top.
Wise-Graham (44 from 43 balls) and Billy Gravett (32 not out from 23) took the score to within six runs of victory, but the Wallabies eventuallygothomewithtwoballstospareand seven wickets down.
For Port, youngster James Tilders picked up 2/23 from eight tidy overs.
Wallington was too good for Drysdale in C1 Grade, making 139 batting first with Murray Biemans top scoring with 32 from 31 balls late in the innings. Matt Gordon’s 4/24 from eight overs was the highlight for the Hawks.
“He’s a genuine all rounder,” Walter said.
“Hits the ball pretty hard for a 16-year-old kid and bowls well. He’s a promising young player, that’s for sure.”
COLLENDINA had a good win in C1 Grade with its top seven batters all reaching double figures. Oscar Irwin made 37 from just 23 balls as the Cobras made 202 against Ocean Grove. Jacob Muir then starred with the ball, taking 4/18 while Craig Goodger took 3/10.
DAVE Treharne took 5/23 in C2 Grade although Dina lost to Surf Coast, falling 24 runs short of victory.
JYE Hearps took a hat-trick in D Grade as Collendina defeated St Leonards by two wickets. The former A Grade skipper took 3/10 and Chris Pitfield snared 4/20 to have the Saints all out for 118. Hearps then made 40 with the Snakes passing the total eight down in the 37th over.
Hawks win opening battle
Ocean Grove has some work to do after a round 2 loss to Drysdale.
The Grubbers had plenty of positives to come out of the 69-run defeat at Drysdale, but will need to improve to be a challenger in A1 Grade this season.
New skipper Fletcher Long won the toss and sent Drysdale in with hard-hitting opener Charlie Clode making 65 and Jason Malcolm 21.
Jack Wilkinson chipped in with a handy 29, but the Grubbers were able to remove dangerman Nick Hallam for a duck lbw to impressive newcomer Campbell Snookes.
Xavier Jetson made sure that the Hawks would have a sizeable total to defend with a well-made 58 not out and Hayden Eddy ended unbeaten on 16. A final total of 7/222 was always going to be tough to chase.
Snookes was excellent in his first game for his new club with 3/22 from eight overs while Bailey LeMaistre took 2/35 from his allotment of eight.
Grove started its chase badly and never really found much rhythm although Snookes stood up with a fine 67 and Dylan Thorley started the season well with 42.
Prolific wicket taker Blake Dobbin again showed his worth with 4/23 and debutante Oscar Cutajar snared 3/19 in what shapes as the first of many A Grade wickets to come.
Grove was bowled out for 153 off 37 overs and faces a tough assignment against reigning premiers and old foes Barwon Heads in round 3 after a washout prevented any play in round 1.
In reply, Drysdale finished at 9/104 with Adrian Millard getting 38 with Dale Palmer and Damien Biemans each snaring three wickets.
Barwon Heads thrashed Wallington in C2 Grade with Tom Andrew taking four wickets in helping the Seagulls dismiss Wallington for just 41. The Heads got the required runs in 11 overs,losingonewicketwithMarkHowardnot out on 27.
Winchelsea won a high-scoring D Grade encounterafterWallingtonmade4/232batting first. The top four all got past 40 with Shaun Robinson (47), Matthew Shipsides (45), Mark Johnson (45) and Chris Jackson (42 not out) all batting well. However, Winch chased the total down with seven balls and three wickets in hand.
Justin Flynn
A superb 81 from 98 deliveries from Jake Taylor and 73 from 109 by Adam Arnold gave Ocean Grove a big total of 5/216 against Portarlington in B1 Grade.
Three wickets from Tom Kent then ensured the Grubbers got the six points with the Demons ended at 7/176.
Collendina was too good in C1 Grade with most batters contributing in a final total of 202 with Will Finn snared 4/23 from eight overs, however Ocean Grove was all out for 111 in reply.
Queenscliff won by eight wickets in D Grade with Brendan Thom making a fine 104 retired for the Coutas.
Justin Flynn
Top left: James Sood drives to mid wicket during his innings of 40 for Wallington. Left: Sven Burluraux cuts on his way to 22. Right: Stephen Illingworth drives down the ground for four during his unbeaten 84 for Portarlington. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 436306
Corey Walter started the BPCA season with a fine century. (Ivan Kemp) 364562_03
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