January 10, 2025
Ripping time at classic beach run
More than 1000 runners and walkers participated in the Rip to River Classic on Saturday January 4. It was a warm day that greeted participants who tackled the 10km course from Point Lonsdale to Ocean Grove as well as the shorter 5km course and Nippers course.
The 10km races were won by former Ocean Grove Surf Lifesaving Club member Seb Asher and Amy Fawcett. It was both athletes’ second consecutive title.
Glenn McMillan won the men’s 5km run and Anna Kasapis won the women’s. Natalie Sabbadini was first in the 10km walk while Maria Kasapis, 12, was the first Nipper to cross the line with 147 Nippers participating.
Pictured are sisters Zoe (4) and Margot (3) and cousin Georgia (6) who all ran in the Nippers race and enjoyed an ice treat afterwards.
See page 8 for more pictures and page 30 for the race results
Warehouse opposition
By Jena Carr
The North Geelong community has raised concerns regarding a proposed warehouse development in preparation for VCAT.
Residents were concerned with the height and design of the potential development on 27-28 Nepean Close, which would feature 10.8-metre-high concrete walls within six metres of residential properties.
A planning application was originally submitted to the City of Greater Geelong by E.J. Grech and Associates and The Trustee for Citiwest Constructions Trust’s Warren Gatt in March last year.
North Geelong resident and registered building inspector Leo Dridan said the
proposed development went against Greater Geelong’s Planning Scheme through the expected “magnitude of development”.
“The issue is that they are wanting to construct warehouses all the way to the boundaries of the residential properties along Giddings Street in North Geelong,” he said.
“These warehouses are noted to be at least a minimum of 10.8 metres high. There are no factoriesaroundthisareanearthatheight.I’ve even scoped the area, and they don’t exceed close to 6.5 metres.
“That is to the east side of our properties, which will effectively block our morning sun until about 11am. One gentleman along the street has all his solar panels on his shed at the back boundary, so he will effectively lose
at least 25 per cent of his solar gain for energy production.
“It is an excessive development really for the area as any warehouse or factory of such size also invites large scale machinery, and therefore it will produce a lot of noise.”
Mr Dridan said that despite community objections, the developers have escalated the matter to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT), with a hearing expected for Monday, January 13.
“I think the developer has been playing bullish tactics from the word go because they first had the proposal of planning advertised only days before the long Easter weekend holidays,” he said.
“At the end of November, we received a
notification from their lawyers instructing us to attend VCAT. So they’ve pushed us to VCAToveraChristmasperiodwhenthereare no experts to speak with.
“We’re not opposed to developers, but we would like to have some reference and respect paid to the Greater Geelong planning scheme, which outlines many things that promote good design in the area.
“It’suptoaffectedresidentswhohaveagreed to prepare and submit a group objection. By doing that as we go to VCAT now, we can present ourselves as a group and raise points listed in the objection.”
E.J. Grech and Associates was contacted for comment.
2024 - the year that was
The Independent takes a look back at the stories that made news in 2024.
January
The southern hemisphere’s largest tennis academy was set to be built 25km southwest of Geelong.
A campaign against seismic blasting for fossilgaskickedoffinOceanGrovewithawell received peaceful march along The Terrace. Public Transport Users Association called for the removal of the North Shore level crossing following the death of a man in December.
Police called on members of the public to keep each other safe over the long weekend with Geelong hosting two major events. About a quarter of a million people flocked to the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race and the Festival of Sails during a bumper weekend in January.
March
Failed home builder Apex Homes received a $100,000 payment from a customerwhowantedtobuildinGeelong just days before a winding up order was lodged against it for unpaid debts.
Opponents of a waste to energy in Lara had a win when state parliament’s upper house backed a community led petition calling for the planning minister to reject the facility.
More than 1600 athletes competed in the Geelong Ironman 70.3.
Geelong council unanimously resolved to keep the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre open for two more months following backlash over its previous decision to close the facility from April to November
July
Waurn Ponds Memorial Reserve celebrated its 105th and its committee of management recognised 25 years on July 7.
Three Geelong siblings followed in their dad’s footsteps as the Monkey Mia Kids and took part in Shake It Up Foundation’s half marathon in Cairns to raise money for Parkinson’s research.
The Geelong Sports Museum officially opened at GMHBA Stadium to showcase some of Geelong’s athletes and their stories.
Matthew Flinders Girls Secondary College student Sonnet Pandit earned a Premier’s VCE Award for her Extended Investigation study score of 48 last year.
Ambulance Victoria celebrated its female paramedics following 37 years since the introduction of women in ambulance service roles.
Sonnet Pandit was one of nine local students to receive Premier’s Awards for their VCE efforts last year.
October
A 13-year-old girl was arrested by police after fire engulfed part of Northern Bay College’s Hendry Street campus. Communityradiostation94.7ThePulse announced it would return to community management in June 2025 after 17 years of management by multicultural organisation Cultura.
Geelong TAFE teachers rallied outside member for Geelong Christine Couzens’ office, demanding better pay and conditions.
April
Former SAS soldier Darcy Dunstan announced he would contest the seat of Corangamite for the Liberal Party at the next federal election.
Geelong ambulance and fleet maintenance officers walked off the job in a historic first for better pay and recognition.
Geelong council provided renewed hope for Bell Park’s plans to install female friendly changerooms at its Hamlyn Park home, voting unanimously to support the club’s bid for federal funding.
City of Greater Geelong’s draft budget was released to the public with a small operating surplus of $2.1 million.
Geelong, the Bellarine and the Surf Coast paid their respects to our fallen Diggers at various Anzac Day services on April 25.
November
Members of Balyang Par 3 Golf Course campaigned in opposition to the redevelopment of the unique sporting facility.
Geelong Botanic Gardens’ corpse flower bloomed,withnearly10,000peopletakingthe opportunity to view - and smell - the singular plant up close.
Victoria Police announced positive results from its new Crime Reduction Teams, which have been in operation in Geelong since July.
The Geelong Revival Motoring Festival drew about 50,000 people to Geelong Waterfront despitehotconditions.AndStretchKonteljwas elected mayor of the City of Greater Geelong.
May
Unemployment rates remained low in Geelong with Australian Bureau of Statistics labour force data recording a 3.5 per cent unemployment rate.
Lara’s Ford Millican, 10, cut of his iconic mullet on International Firefighter’s Day to donate to Variety Hair with Heart after raising $8527 by growing out his hair for the Black Dog Institue.
Geelong Kettlebell Sports Association held its first Girevoy Sports Association of Australia Interstate Open competition on May 11.
Geelong tuck-pointer Nat De-Palma received the inaugural Jennifer Bantow Local Heritage Award for years of work restoring heritage buildings.
August
Premier Jacinta Allan visited the Surf Coast to announce a new kindergarten for Armstrong Creek would be open by Term 1, 2026.
Football and netball clubs across the Geelong and Barwon region wore yellow socks and ribbons during Leisure Networks and AFL Barwon’s first-ever inclusion round.
Biyal-a Armstrong Creek Library officially opened, offering a modern library equipped with creative and study spaces.
VictoriaPolice’sPublicOrderResponse Team visited schools across Geelong to bridge the gap between police and the community.
Torquay’sRodPattersonwasrecognised for his courage during the 2018 Bourke StreetattackwithaBraveryMedalduring the Australian Bravery Decorations.
December
Geelong community members stepped up the campaign against Viva Energy’s proposed gas import terminal in Corio Bay with a protest at Norlane Community Centre.
Iconic Geelong athletics venue Landy Field reopened after the $1.5 million renewal of the facility was completed.
Inablowtoreconciliationefforts,Geelong council backflipped on changes made in 2023 around celebrations on January 26. Morethan30,000fansflockedtoGMHBA
February
A local Palestine advocacy group health carecalledforhealthcareworkerstoshow solidarity for their colleagues in Gaza at a protest rally.
Some of Geelong’s northern suburbs were battered by an intense summer stormthatsweptthroughthearea,leaving thousands without power and prompting desperate calls to the SES for help.
Geelong’s newest aquatic centre officiallyopenedinNorlanewitharibbon cutting ceremony.
Thousands flocked to Pakington Street in Geelong West for the Pako Festa where cultures met and celebrated together.
Councillor Peter Murrihy presented a surprise motion to withdraw funding for Bell Park Football Netball Club’s Hamlyn Park changeroom facilities and instead award the money to Newtown & Chilwell in a move that left Dragons’ members shellshocked.
June
Crowds gathered at Herne Hill Reserve to watch 16 sliders dressed in costumes plunge into icy cold waters for Big Freeze Geelong. TAFE teachers from The Gordon Geelong joined a statewide strike for better pay and working conditions for the first time since 2008.
Greater Geelong’s Kaye Rodden, Robert Gartland, Dr James Mullins, George Hill and Michelle Challis received King’s Birthday Honours. Geelong Volunteer Fire Brigade marked 170 years of service to the community on June 15.
Free self-defence program Punch Like a Girl was launched in Geelong, marking the beginning of the Geelong Independent’s We Are Geelong: Together We Thrive campaign which shines a light on local issues facing the Greater Geelong area.
September
The Victorian government officially opened two major health and wellbeing projects in Geelong, University Hospital’s children’s emergency department and Central Geelong Mental Health and Wellbeing Hub.
Winds of close to 100km/h struck Geelong, resulting in nearly 400 cases as fallen trees and 160 incidents of building damage across the Barwon South West region.
Geelong cadet sailors Josh Garner and Jack Benyan were crowned world champions at the Cadet Class World Championships in Plymouth, UK.
Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles showcased plans for a renewable energy terminal at GeelongPort’s Oyster Cove.
Janet McNamara, Wendy Stevens and Maryann Kuit prepare to march against seismic blasting.
Four charged after home invasion
Four people have been charged by Armed Crime Squad detectives following an aggravated home invasion where a shot was fired at Lovely Banks last week.
A man and a woman were arrested at a residential address in Corio on Monday afternoon and subsequently interviewed by police.
A 28-year-old Corio woman was charged with aggravated home invasion (firearm), armed robbery, two counts of common law assault and commit Schedule 1 offence while on bail.
She was remanded overnight to appear at Geelong Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.
A 28-year-old North Geelong man was charged with aggravated home invasion (firearm), prohibited person possess firearm, two counts of common law assault and commit Schedule 1 offence while on bail.
He was remanded to appear at Geelong Magistrates’ Court on April 8.
A 27-year-old Lovely Banks man was arrested on Thursday January 2 and charged with prohibited person possess firearm.
A 52-year-old Corio man was charged
Showing off mussels
By Jena Carr
The Portarlington Mussel Festival is back for a day of great food, drink and even bettermussels - as it celebrates its 16th year.
The annual festival will return to Portarlington Park on January 11 from 9.30am to 5pm with many food and drink stalls, a variety of music and entertainment, a cooking tent and boats selling fresh mussels.
Festival director Jenny Banks said Portarlington had been producing some of Australia’stastiestmusselssince1982andthat the festival was a chance to showcase what the region had to offer.
“It’s always about showcasing the mussels that are growing around Portarlington and the Bellarine Peninsula,” she said. “The size and sweetness of Portarlington’s mussels help them stand out, and I understand they were slightly undersized last year, but I don’t believe that’s the issue this year.
“There is an emphasis on mussels... but if mussels aren’t your thing, there are other food vendors there, and I’m sure you’ll find something that will take your fancy and fill your tummy. It’s a real showcase of the Bellarine Peninsula and the mussel festival is awaytocelebratetheregion...andI’mlooking forward to seeing everybody having a good time and enjoying themselves.”
The festival will also host an art show with more than 30 artists from across the Bellarine displaying and selling their work in Parks Hallduringtheday.Theevent’sentertainment will showcase performances from a Robbie Williams tribute band, The Sound Collective, Hot Club Swing, Matt Orchard, and many other great artists and roving entertainment. There will also be hourly cooking demonstrationsinRie’sKitcheninthecooking tentandajumpingcastleduringtheday. Visit portmusselfestival.com for an entertainment schedule and more festival information.
SUMMER SIZZLER CASHBACK
on Friday January 3 with aggravated home invasion (firearm), armed robbery and two counts of common law assault.
The pair were remanded to appear at Geelong Magistrates’ Court on April 8.
The charges follow an incident where emergency services were called following reports of an aggravated home invasion at a Cox Road address shortly after 9.30am on Thursday January 2.
Police will allege a number of people attended the address armed with a homemade firearm and assaulted the two occupants.
A 23-year-old man and a 27-year-old woman were inside the house at the time. Both were treated for minor physical injuries.
It is believed a shot was discharged into the ceiling during the incident.
Police believe the parties involved were known to each other.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyonewithinformationisurgedtocontact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report at crimestoppersvic.com. au
Portarlington Mussel Festival’s Isaac Field, back left, Kyla Field, John Mitchell, and Layla Dickinson with Filomena Kinkead, front left, Joanne Marriott and Oscar Purves at Portarlington Pier. (Ivan Kemp) 452475_07
Celebrating art milestone
By Jena Carr
Ocean Grove’s William (Bill) Linford is celebrating a half-century art career with a new exhibition of recent works from the many themes he explores.
The Hive Gallery will host Encompass from January 11, with the exhibition featuring themes regularly featured throughout the years and decades of Mr Linford’s work.
Mr Linford said the exhibition featured pieces that ranged in size from his largest painting to some smaller works that may be more familiar to visitors.
“Many visitors will be familiar with my sport themed paintings, but my works linked to the environment and fantasy pieces may be surprising to some,” he said.
“IamhopingthatvisitorstoEncompasswill enjoythediversityofthemesrepresented...The three major themes represented in Encompass are sport, environment, and fantasy.
“I believe I now have a recognisable and unique style that permeates all my work, but this exhibition will hopefully illustrate how I have been able to utilise this style in relation to quite varied subject matter.”
Mr Linford said he had been exhibiting his
works across the region since he relocated to Ocean Grove in 1989 and looked forward to showcasing his latest exhibition at The Hive Gallery.
“I am always impressed with the way that Karen Spreadborough curates all the exhibitions at The Hive. She has a knack of combining works that complement each other,” he said.
“Openings allow me to connect with interested followers of my artistic endeavours, collectors and art lovers in general. It is a wonderfuloccasiontoshareadrinkandachat whilst viewing my work.”
Keep kids safe this summer
People should continue to help keep kids safe around water on residential properties as the region experiences high heat temperatures this summer.
Ambulance Victoria (AV) and Life Saving Victoria regional leaders joined Surf Coast Shire Council to urge people to ensure backyard pools and spas are equipped with certified safety barriers.
AV senior team manager Andrew Kimberley said 92 children aged 4 or younger drowned in swimming pools between 2014 and 2024, with 37 per cent of deaths occurring between December and February.
“Always supervise children near water.Ensureyourpoolfenceissecure, with a self-closing, self-latching gate, and learn CPR in case of an emergency.”
Mayor Mike Bodsworth said there were more than 2500 known pools in the Surf Coast Shire and that “tragic history” showed that carelessness around safety barriers and gates could cost young lives.
Allpoolandspaownersarerequired by law to have a barrier compliance certificate issued every four years by a private inspector to maintain safety standards.
Visit surfcoast.vic.gov.au/PoolsSpas orcall52610600formoreinformation about pool registrations and barrier certifications.
Ocean Grove’s William (Bill) Linford with works from his new Encompass exhibition. (Ivan Kemp) 452547_04
Going batty for flying fox safety
Geelong’s bats will soon be able to better cool down during hot temperatures thanks to the City of Greater Geelong.
The City will install an irrigation system to help grey-headed flying foxes (also known as fruit bats) during extreme heat days, with work expected to be completed this year.
Flying foxes are a threatened species and face several threats, including habitat destruction,failingfoodsources,disturbance, illegal fruit netting and extreme heat events.
Executive Director of City Infrastructure
James Stirton said Geelong was “not just a
home for us, but for our cherished wildlife”, with a camp of grey-headed flying foxes in Eastern Park.
“Wildlife need our help to ensure they have places where they can live, feed and grow with minimal interference,” he said.
“It’sastonishingtothinksuchanexceptional species like the grey-headed flying fox has set up a camp within walking distance of central Geelong.
“Grey-headed flying foxes are among our most vulnerable species and current rates of habitat loss and warming temperatures are
testing their ability to adapt in such a rapidly changing environment.”
Flying foxes breed from September to March, with female bats carrying and feeding their young, called pups, for several months. Both mothers and pups are particularly vulnerable during this period.
Eastern Park currently has many mothers and pups, and when adult flying foxes are disturbed, they may fly away and lose their pups.
Abandoned pups often don’t survive when separatedfromtheirmothers,andcommunity
members can help by educating others about the danger of making loud noises, like cars backfiring, in Eastern Park.
Sick and injured flying foxes should be reported to Wildlife Victoria by calling 03 8400 7300, who will send a vaccinated and trained wildlife rescuer to assist.
Community members should not touch or handle bats but can help look after flying foxes in the backyard using wildlife-friendly mesh netting smaller than 5mm x 5mm when covering fruit trees.
Opening the chapter for indie authors
The Indie Author Book Fair is back in Barwon Heads for its second year of showcasing books written by independent authors.
Barwon Heads Community Hall will host the free and fun family day out on Sunday January 12 from 9am to 1pm.
Organiser Kristine Fitzgerald said the fair was a good opportunity for people to chat with independent authors, with 13 more writers being showcased than last year.
“We’ve got 35 authors from across Victoria showcasing their books, so I’m hoping it’s going to be a really great day,” she said.
“There’s no expectation to buy. People can come, browse, see what they like and get to know the authors. We’re happy to chat and speak to customers.
“I’m looking forward to interacting with the other authors and I love it when you see customers’ faces when they really love your book. That’s a moment when all the hard work that you’ve put in is worth it.”
Ms Fitzgerald said being an independent author allowed her to have more of a say in her book and that the fair was a great chance for aspiring authors to learn more about getting their works published.
“You can give as much feedback as you want on the cover design and layout, and you don’t have the strict rules that you can sometimes have with a traditional publisher,” she said.
Jena Carr
Kristine Fitzgerald will host the Indie Author Book Fair at Barwon Heads Community Hall this Sunday. (Ivan Kemp) 452418_06
Holiday water learning
Barwon Water’s Summer Series is in full swingwith11communitypop-upshappening across the region.
After a successful first-up event at Lorne with hundreds of Nippers at Lorne, the SummerSerieshasmovedeasttoGeelongand the Bellarine.
Mascot ‘Drop’ took to the sand with their Barwon Water colleagues to spread the word on sustainable water use.
With a range of activities, giveaways and information, the Summer Series aims to engage with residents and visitors across the length and breadth of the region during this peak period.
Barwon Water’s region – which takes in Geelong and Bellarine, Apollo Bay and Colac – swells from about 380,000 people to 580,000 during January.
Acting general manager customers, community & strategy Emma Connan said with the rising population placing a great demand on water supplies, it was timely to focus on why ‘Water Matters’.
“We’re meeting people where they like to spend time in summer – at beaches, foreshores and holiday parks – to talk about how we can all use water wisely,” Ms Connan said.
“While our storage levels are secure, they can drop quickly and it’s vital we all play our part in helping conserve our water supply.
From providing practical ways to save water while on holidays, to details about Barwon Water projects in the local area, the Summer Series is a great way to engage with the community.”
Barwon Water’s Summer Series continues at the following locations:
Wednesday 15 January – Portarlington Foreshore
Thursday 16 January – Barwon Heads Foreshore
Friday 17 January – Eastern Beach, Geelong Saturday 18 January – Eastern Beach, Geelong
Tuesday 21 January – Queenscliff Recreation Reserve
To all those Unsinkable Guys out there –
Wednesday 22 January – Portarlington Holiday Park
Thursday23January–ColacMemorialPark
Friday 24 January – Apollo Bay Foreshore Reserve
More information at barwonwater.vic. gov.au/water-and-waste/permanent-watersaving-rules
You might think it’s safe to have a few drinks around water, skip the life jacket when you’re out on the boat or go for a swim without checking the conditions.
But statistics prove that 4 out of 5 drownings are men.
Just remember that no one’s unsinkable.
Grants help to develop local artists
Surf Coast artists and creatives can pursue their project ambitions and careers as the DEVELOP program returns for another year.
Applications for Surf Coast Shire Council’s DEVELOP grants funding program will open on January 27 to help support creative exploration by individuals or groups.
Deputy mayor Libby Stapleton said the grants would allow individuals to apply for grants of up to $3000 and not-for-profit creative groups to apply for up to $5000. “We encourage emerging, mid-career and established creatives to consider applying. Working through the submission process can be a great way to help crystallise concepts and ambitions.”
Council Arts Development Team will also run information sessions on January 29 from 10am to 11.30am at Lorne Community Connect and from 3.30pm to 5pm at council’s Torquay building. Sessions will also be held on February 6 at Winchelsea’s former shire hall from 10am to 11.30am and on February 12 from 2pm to 3pm online via Teams.
“We recommend intending applicants attend one of our information sessions and talk to our Arts Development Team,” Ms Stapleton said.
Bookings for the sessions are essential. Go to surfcoast.vic.gov.au/ DEVELOP
Mascot Drop at Barwon Water’s first Summer Series event at Lorne. (supplied)
Fun blooms at botanic gardens
By Jena Carr
Enjoy a nice picnic, exciting activities, and a ‘ladybug rock hunt’ during a fun and free family day at ‘Geelong’s best kept secret’.
Geelong Botanic Gardens will host the Summer Family Fun Day on January 15 from 10amwithmanyactivitiesavailableforpeople of all ages.
Education and engagement officer Amelia Bellosaidshelookedforwardtocomingtothe event and realising the gardens’ beauty.
“We are encouraging family members to bring along a picnic and come along to enjoy the tranquility of the gardens,” she said.
“It’s marketed as a family fun day, but we have everything for ages young to old, so everybody is welcome to come along... and enjoy the gardens which is Geelong’s best kept secret.
“We’re going to have live music and nature
play spaces set up, which will be great for kids to get their hands dirty and... it’s going to be a wonderful day out for everybody to enjoy.”
Ms Bello said a highlight of the day would be the inaugural ladybug rock hunt.
“We’re also going to have ladybug rocks all throughout the garden that we’ve painted that thekidscantrytohunt,find,grabandcollect. They can also paint their own if they want too as well,” she said.
“I really wanted to bring these ladybug rocks into our garden so that children have something to take home and then they can maybe hide it again in Geelong for someone else to find them.”
The gardens will also host a free Wellness in the Gardens event on the following Wednesday, January 22, where people can participate in sound healing, yoga, watercolour arts and other activities.
Cottage fair back for the 115th time
Cottage by the Sea will hold its annual fair tomorrow (January 11).
The fair is the Cottage’s longest-running fundraiser and was originally an annual picnic.
The children’s charity has records of the century-long fundraiser dating back to 1910.
“Our annual fair is an amazing day out in Queenscliff with all the favourites for our community–fromfreshfruitandvegtobaked goods and second-hand bargains,” Cottage by the Sea chief executive Adam Wake said.
“It’s one of our oldest and biggest fundraisers, ensuring that more children have
the experience of a lifetime at Cottage. 135 years ago, this charity was created to enhance the lives of children in need.
“Our mission, unchanged throughout this entire period, has given so many children the opportunity to benefit from fresh seaside air, clear blue skies, invigorating saltwater and so much more.
Our annual fair is a testament to the enduring power of community. Our charity hasreliedonourcommunity’ssupportuntil now and will continue into the next century.”
There will be a range of different stalls at the fair from fresh produce to a barbecue
lunch, barista coffee, homemade cakes, jams and Devonshire tea. The fair will also include pop-up market stalls selling woodwork and sculptures from Cottage supporter Darren Allbutt, jewellery, pots and plants donated by Van Loon’s Nursery, clothing and second-hand books.
The Harvey family and Harvey’s of Highton havebeensupportingthefairformorethan20 years, donating the fresh fruit and vegetables for sale.
ThefairisonSaturdayJanuary11from9am to 2pm at 29 Flinders Street, Queenscliff. Entry is by donation.
Judy, Sally and Susie at last year’s Cottage by the Sea annual fair. (Supplied)
Geelong Botanic Gardens education and engagement officer Amelia Bello with Cataleya in the children’s garden. (Ivan Kemp) 452478_08
Thousand strong take on heat
A hot day greeted more than 1000 Rip to River participants on Saturday January 4, but it didn’t quell the enthusiasm as Independent photographer Ivan Kemp found out.
Nippers runners Jack, Harry, Oscar, Polly, Camilla, Maggie and Jemima. 451842_11
Oliver Cronin runs with his three-year old daughter Margot in the nippers run. 451842_20
Glenn McMillan won the 5km run. 451842_02
Tom Napier cools off after the race. 451842_08
10km run winners Amy Fawcett and Seb Asher. 451842_14
Sam Murdoch finishes strongly. 451842_19
Jack Wightman (winner of the under 7 nippers race) with his dad Nick (eight time winner and 2nd in the 10km run. 451842_07
Isabell Kays crosses the line at the end of the 10km run. 451842_28
Michael Loader with his children Maddison and Max after finishing the 10km run. 451842_06
Charlie Cammiss and Monty Gleeson in a tight finish. 451842_18
Maria Kasapis wins the nippers run. 451842_17
Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant with Lucinda Whatley (winner of the under 7 nippers run). 451842_09
Natalie Sabbadini won the 10km walk. 451842_27
Quest for the Jurassic Fart
Television’s favourite twin doctors are returning to Geelong as they embark on a ‘Quest for the Jurassic Fart’.
Dr Chris and Dr Xand van Tulleken, from the scientific children’s show Operation Ouch!, will take audiences back in time to unearth the most dangerous, powerful and important fart in history.
Dr Chris said the show would feature new crazy experiments as the doctors explore the world of sciences like never before as they explore the world’s earliest farts.
“There will be a lot of science, experimentation and audience interaction throughout the show,” he said.
“Xand attempts to grow a dinosaur colon in my body, and we have a very elaborate genetic transfer experiment. We may set some farts on fire collected from the audience.
“The best bit is we use a very fancy endoscope, a rhino laryngoscope, to have a look inside parts of Xand’s head to give you views of the human body that the audience will never have seen before.”
Dr Xand said the show would have something for everyone “between 90 and nine months old” to enjoy.
“The core theme of it is trying to find a fossilisedJurassicfartandalongthewaywego on a few detours and have a look at digestion, health and different body parts,” he said.
“There’s also a bit of a disaster as something happens to Chris and you’re going to get prettyclosetomeetingsomethingthat’sabout as close as a real-life dinosaur as you could get nowadays.”
The doctors said they wanted everyone who left the show to understand that “doctors are not grossed out by anything”.
“We love gross stuff, that’s why we become doctors. So, we try and encourage kids to get their grown-ups to think about their health as
well,” Dr Xand said.
“If you have a weird or embarrassing personal problem to do with your farts or poop, you should always go and speak to your doctor. We really don’t get grossed out by anything at all,” Dr Chris said.
From classroom to theatre
A private school teacher is swapping the classroom for the stage as Footlight Productions’ Billy Elliot comes to Geelong this month.
Kardinia International teacher Ian Nash-Gilchrist will take on the role of miner Mr Braithwaite, who leads a second life as a piano player.
Mr Nash-Gilchrist’s character helps ballet schoolteacherMrsWilkinson(SophieCollins) teach Billy Elliot (Sebastian and Luka Sero), a young boy who decides to swap his boxing gloves for ballet shoes to make his dreams come true.
“Mr Braithwaite was just destined to become a miner but kept up his music by playing piano and playing in the pub band,” he said.
“He’s a frustrated dancer at heart and thinks that back in the day he might have been someone potentially himself, but being the time of decade that it was, there was no chance.”
Mr Nash-Gilchrist said the musical highlighted themes like the struggle between
a government and its community and the representation of unions.
“I’d encourage people to come along and see the show. It’s got a lot of positive reinforcement like allowing you to express yourself as who you are and being true to yourself,” he said.
“History tells us that many people were affected by the mines closing down and it was a huge period of upheaval for these mining communities, and it still happens today in certain spots of the world.”
Elements of Mr Nash-Gilchrist’s personal life also come into play throughout the musical, with his 14-year-old son Jasper participating with the show’s props team.
Kardinia International College’s brand-new student-led art club also helped build the manufactured puppet mask that features in the second act.
Billy Elliot will be at Geelong Arts Centre’s Playhouse Theatre between January 17 to February 2.
Jena Carr
New take on old classic
A fun take on the popular story Cinderella will make its way to the Potato Shed next week.
Presented by Theatre 3Triple2 for KiDs the production, written by Rob MacLeod and directed by Cait Reynolds, is a fun and new take on the traditional story.
Great costumes, funny characters, catchy songs, great lights and lots of audience participation is on the card.
Everyone in the lands of Corangamite are very excited as the prince of the district is looking for a wife – a princess. Word is out and the two most eligible and rather desperate sisters Grizabella and Isabella are over the moon as this may be their chance to ‘bag a prince’. Young Cinderella is set the task of getting her two sisters ready for the ball at the palace, yet no mention has been made as to if she can also attend. With a little bit of magical help, it looks like Cinderella will make it to the ball, but how?
Ouch Live: Quest for the Jurassic FartwillcometoDeakinUniversityGeelong’s Costa Hall for two shows on January 14. Visit Geelong Arts Centre’s website for more information and tickets.
Lots of singing dancing and laughs will ensure that everyone enjoys a fun time at the palace. Wear your Sunday best so that you too can go to the ball. Theatre 3Triple2 for KiDs have been entertaining families at the Potato Shed for more than 18 years. Tickets can be purchased online (potatoshed. com.au) by calling the Potato Shed on 52511998.Ticketswillalsobeavailable at the door. Cinderella is at the Potato Shed, Drysdale, from Tuesday January 14 to Thursday January 16 at 10.30am and 1.30pm.
Relevant Persons Consultation for Petroleum Activities Offshore - Otway Basin
Amplitude Energy Ltd (formerly Cooper Energy Ltd) operates the Casino gas field which has supplied natural gas to Australians since 2006.
What activities are we consulting on?
We plan to conduct gas exploration drilling near our existing subsea infrastructure and within our offshore Otway Basin licence areas offshore from Peterborough, Victoria. We expect our exploration drilling will confirm additional volumes of gas. If so, we will work through the required approvals, licences and activities to produce the gas via our existing subsea infrastructure. The Otway Basin has been producing gas for decades, and we are planning to provide gas supply exclusively to the domestic market to help alleviate the forecast shortages.
Why are we reaching out?
If our planned activities in Commonwealth waters in the Otway Basin may affect your functions, interests, or activities, then you may be considered a ‘relevant person’.
Please visit https://cooperenergy.wixsite.com/coeoffshore/ athenasupply to determine how you might be affected. If you consider yourself a relevant person, we would like to consult with you to gather any information that could improve our environment plan.
Please email us at: stakeholder@cooperenergy.com.au should you wish to be consulted as a relevant person or require further information
Ian Nash-Gilchrist as Mr Braithwaite, Luka Sero as Billy Elliot and Sophie Collins as Mrs Wilkinson from Footlight Productions’ Billy Elliot. (Simone Clarke)
Operation
Jena Carr
Dr Chris and Dr Xand van Tulleken will bring Operation Ouch Live: Quest for the Jurassic Fart to Deakin University Geelong’s Costa Hall on January 14. (Supplied)
The best in in-home care
Just Better Care is your go-to provider for the best in-home support.
With a skilled team, they are passionate about providing exceptional care to allow those in the community to live safe, healthy and happy at home for as long as possible.
Services include social and community support, dementia support, domestic assistance, in-home nursing, meal preparation,overnightsupport,palliativecare support, personal care, post-hospital support,
respite for carers, and travel and transport.
Services can be paid for privately or subsidised through a government funded Home Care Package. The experienced team work with you to build a tailored care plan just for you.
To start your Just Better Care journey, call 03 5222 1518, email mailge@justbettercare. com or visit the caring team at their office at Level 1 114a Mt Pleasant Road in Belmont. Visit justbettercare.com/Geelong for more information.
Signs you need to look at alternative care options
As your loved ones age, you may have noticed signs that they need additional support and need to consider alternative care options.
Key indicators may include forgetfulness, repeatingthemselves,confusion,unsteadygait, declining personal hygiene, significant weight changes, or a cluttered or unclean home.
If these signs are a concern, it’s time to have a family discussion ensuring the responsibility is shared and decisions are made in everyone’s best interests. Consider consulting professionals for advice on available care options.
Care responsibilities can generally be categorised into three main areas: medical, social and financial. It’s advisable to consult a legal advisor regarding wills, power of
attorney and estate management. Documenting medical wishes and ensuring regular visits to healthcare providers are
critical steps. Ensuring your loved one’s finances are in order – covering bank accounts, investments and financial services is essential.
Everyone should be aware of whom to contact in an emergency. Maintaining social interaction is also imperative to overall health and well-being. Professional help or transitioning into an aged care home may be necessary.Thiscansignificantlyenhanceyour loved one’s quality of life by offering a caring environment where they can participate in everyday activities and receive the supportive care they need, providing peace of mind for families and carers.
If you would like to arrange a visit to one of our aged care homes in Melbourne or Geelong, contact homestyleagedcare.com.au or call 1300 104 663 to book a tour and for any admission enquiries.
Transitioning into an aged care home can significantly enhance your loved one’s quality of life. (pictures supplied)
The Just Better Care team is on hand to meet all your in-home needs. (Supplied)
CELEBRATING SENIORS
Live a life unlimited at Lifestyle Communities
At Lifestyle Communities we believe in life without restrictions. One with the freedom to dothethingsyoulove,andtheconfidencetobe whoeveryouwanttobe,whereeverynewdayis a fresh opportunity. It’s a philosophy that rings trueinourbest-in-classhomesandclubhouses. Whether you’re working, semi-retired or retired,comeandjoinacommunitywhereLife is Unlimited.
Join in on pickleball, croquet, yoga, arts and crafts, woodworking, bowls and swimming.
There are also happy hours, guest speakers, musical entertainment and much more. Plus, you’ll have loads of new friends to enjoy all of this with and a beautiful home to live in. The community is thoughtfully planned and designed making it easy to get around and enjoy. Lifestyle Communities promotes a lifestyle that emphasises freedom, the choice to do your thing, your way. Live independently whilst also enjoying a vibrant social life and a variety of recreational activities.
Buying a home at Lifestyle Communities means embracing a life where your horizons are boundless. With a host of activities and an abundance of new friendships waiting for you, your days will be filled with excitement and companionship. Here, you are not just living, you are thriving, and it’s a testament to the limitless possibilities of a life unencumbered by restrictions. Come and experience the freedom to be you, every day, in your new home at Lifestyle Communities.
Come and discover the exquisite Lifestyle Ocean Grove where life knows no bounds. Experience this beautiful community first-hand and explore our facilities and homes for sale!
Whether you’re considering a move, simply curious, or looking for a welcoming community to call home, our open day is the perfect opportunity to see the vibrant and engaging lifestyle we offer.
Where: 60 Gambier Street, Ocean Grove
Date: Saturday 1st February Time: 10.30am to 12.30pm
Call 1300 50 55 60 to RSVP or walk in on the day!
1/ Smiles Lind and Col Knights from Queensland. 2/ Sarah and Tom Miles with their children Banksia and Bodhi. 3/ Lizzie Peters with her daughter Florence. 4/ Lany Stapper with her children Ari and Nellie. 5/ Caitlyn McCutcheon and Sam St John. 6/ Kyle Gore with his daughter Finley. 7/ Winnter 8/ Nicole Winchester with her daughter Pepper. 9/ Rhea Famlonga with her children Lou and Lott. 10/ Chris and Linda Tinnerholm with their children Astrid and Ronja. (451470)
State of the ‘art’ city
By Cr Stretch Kontelj
Geelong has so much colourful and vibrant public art – if you know where to look.
Across our city murals and street art breathe life into otherwise dull walls, laneways and carparks.
Some murals paint idyllic coastal and floral scenes, such as Jasmine Crisp’s ‘They made sure to look’ or Manda Lane’s ‘Welcome to the [Concrete] Jungle’.
Others depict famous and historic figures such as rock goddess Chrissy Amphlett or Moi-Yo Miller, who was considered Australia’s most beautiful woman in the 1930s when she travelled the world as the Great Magician Dante’s assistant.
Around our CBD you can discover riotous colour, patterns and action with miniature humans cartwheeling, playing and scooting across building walls, while in quiet corners native animals and nursery rhyme characters hide in plain sight. Sculptures in our streets also pay homage to our Indigenous, colonialandindustrialhistory,tellingourcity’s story.
On the corner of Moorabool and Ryrie streets Louis Laumen’s ‘Newsboy’ pays tribute to late businessman and philanthropist Frank Costa, who sold newspapers there at age 13.
And it’s not just our CBD that’s home to a colourful array of public art.
From ‘Don’t Forget About Me: Cowies Creek’, a mural in Norlane celebrating our Indigenous history, to totem pole animal sculptures in Whittington, there are just too many examples across our municipality to mention in this column.
It’s also great to see the private sector getting involved, with a recently completed native
floral mural at Federal Mills, North Geelong, getting plenty of attention on social media Australia-wide.
I encourage developers and business owners to explore opportunities for public art to bring colour to our city and make their premises stand out. Perhaps our most iconic and uniquely ‘Geelong’ artworks are the 100-plus BaywalkBollardsonthewaterfront,alongwith another 30 at Barwon Heads.
These fun and fascinating wooden sculptures, developed by the late Jan Mitchell between 1990 and 2001, depict the unique characters in our city’s past.
As Geelong’s most-photographed ‘people’, they promote our city through visitors’ social media and tell a story to all who pass by.
Sadly,theconditionofthesesculptures is declining, which is why the City is conducting a detailed assessment on all the Geelong bollards.
Once this assessment is complete, we can make a comprehensive plan for the future of these iconic sculptures, and I look forward to providing more details soon.
A Clever and Creative city needs art to inspire and challenge people, which is why I want to champion public art during my term as mayor.
The City of Greater Geelong has the largest public art and public monument collections of any municipality in Victoria, and one of the largest in Australia.
And I’m keen to explore how council can encourage even more public art in our new estates as well as established suburbs.
Public art brings culture to our city and attracts visitors, which can provide a boost for traders and make Geelong a more enjoyable place to be.
Most of all, it’s a crucial part of the cultural identity we all share, as the City of Greater Geelong.
To discover more visit geelongaustralia.com. au/publicart or download the Geelong Arts & Culture Trails app on your phone.
Our Funeral Team are here when you need support and guidance.
City of Greater Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj. (Supplied)
PERMANENT FEE-FREE TAFE
‘ESCAPE’ Corio’s library
By Jena Carr
Young people across Geelong can put their brains to the test by participating in challenges as they try to ‘ESCAPE! The Library’.
The escape-room-style event will be held at Corio Library in partnership with headspace CorioonWednesday,January15,from6pmto 7pm for young people aged 12 to 18.
Geelong Regional Libraries chief executive Vanessa Schernickau said participants of all abilities will solve digital puzzles, fly drones, and guide robots through timed challenges during the event.
“It’sachanceforyoungpeopletoexperience the library in a new way and have a lot of fun in the process,” she said.
“Supporting mental health is crucial, and we are proud to collaborate with community partner headspace Corio.
“The event also helps to build digital literacy by encouraging young people to be creative, work together and explore some of the lesser-known library resources in a safe, supportive, and welcoming space.”
headspace Geelong, Corio, and Armstrong Creek clinical services manager Tenille Favazza said the event was a great way to promote mental health and wellbeing for young people.
“This session raises awareness of local service providers. We are proud to support this event, which emphasises the importance of community connection and seeking help,” she said.
“It also promotes healthy headspace tips, such as engaging in activities that matter
to young people, fostering connections by sharing thoughts and feelings, and developing problem-solving skills to navigate tough times.”
The event is free, but bookings are essential for catering purposes and can be made at events.grlc.vic.gov.au/event/12406157
CREATING A CLEVER AND CREATIVE FUTURE FOR GREATER GEELONG
CITYNEWS
Our
collections
TAKE YOUR RUBBISH WITH YOU IF YOU CAN
Our region is a beautiful place to live and visit, and it’s up to all of us to keep it that way. During summer we have additional waste services at popular destinations. However, due to the sheer volume of people and the rubbish generated, it can be difficult to keep up. So, if you can, please take your rubbish with you. For more information, scan the QR code or visit geelong.link/Rethink2
Make a big impact with your recycling Whether you’re a local or visiting Geelong, remember to keep plastic bags, paper coffee and drink cups and tissues out of recycling bins. These items contaminate recycling and should always go in the rubbish bin. Your small acts can make a big impact.
For recycling information, scan the QR code or visit geelong. link/RecycleRight2 NEWS
THE CITY OF GREATER GEELONG IS
performing arts, theatre and music sectors to fill two voluntary, external, community representative member positions for a 2-year term commencing March 2025 and ending February 2027. The EOI closes at 5.00pm on Friday 7 February 2025.
For more information, scan the QR code or visit geelong.link/ PotatoShed2
Summer of Fun - free open days
Join Swim Sport & Leisure for a series of summer events, fun for the whole family! Free entry from 12.00pm with food, coffee, music and activities.
›Sunday 12 January, Kardinia Aquatic Centre
›Sunday 19 January, Leisurelink
›Sunday 2 February, Bellarine Aquatic & Sports Centre
›Sunday 9 February, Norlane ARC
›Sunday 16 February, Lara Swimming Pool
waste team run extra public bin
for the busy summer period.
Noah and Tilly flying a drone at Corio Library in preparation for the ESCAPE! The Library event. (Ivan Kemp) 452485_06
The Guide
GARDENING
AUSTRALIA JUNIOR
ABC Family, Friday, 7.05pm
A new cast of kids pulls on the gardening gloves and gets set to explore all things horticultural alongside the Gardening Australiateam in the second season of this colourful companion series. Offering up family-friendly projects and DIY tutorials to level up your green space, the show encourages kids to get out in the garden and grow stuff, while learning the importance of looking after the environment. Tonight, Tammy Huynh is joined by kids Romeo and Pia (both pictured) to create mini cities from succulents and cacti – complete with lights, dinosaurs and waterslides.
BILLY AND DOM
EAT THE WORLD
SBS Food, Saturday, 7.30pm
Actors Billy Boyd and Dominic Monaghan first met on the set of the epic TheLordoftheRingsfilm series back in 1999, and have developed a close friendship since then. This fun foodie travelogue follows the good mates to eight different locations around the world as they seek out local dishes and discover how each place they come to has developed its unique cuisine. However, they’ve got to earn their keep, so Billy and Dom will be put to work, trying (and mostly failing) to keep up with the locals. Tonight’s premiere finds the pair in London, where they are aiming to master the Sunday roast at their LOTRco-star Ian McKellen’s (pictured, centre, with Monaghan and Boyd) pub on the Thames.
Friday, January 10
ABC TV (2)
6.00 The Great Australian Bee Challenge. (Final, R) 7.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News Breakfast Late. 9.30 The Princes And The Press. (Final, PG, R) 10.30 Poh’s Kitchen. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 The Newsreader. (Mdl, R) 2.00 The Split: Barcelona. (Ml, R) 3.00 Back Roads. (R) 3.30 Grand Designs. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (PG, R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 The Secret History Of The British Garden: The 17th Century. (R) Presented by Monty Don.
8.30 Murder In Provence. (Mav, R) Marine helps Antoine and Hélène investigate the death of an aristocrat, found dead at his chateau.
10.00 Joanna Lumley’s Great Cities Of The World: Rome. (PG, R) Joanna Lumley visits Rome.
10.50 Grand Designs: North Wales. (R)
11.35 Long Lost Family. (PG, R)
12.25 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
LEGUIZAMO DOES AMERICA
SBS Viceland, Tuesday, 9.20pm
PICK OF THE WEEK
MIRIAM MARGOLYES IN NEW ZEALAND
ABC TV, Sunday, 7.30pm
Candid character actor Miriam Margolyes calls Australia home, but when a film role looks like taking her to New Zealand, she’s struck by how little she knows about our Kiwi cousins across the ditch. Determined to overcome her own ignorance, Margolyes sets out to learn more about the Land of the Long White Cloud and its inhabitants in this two-part road trip adventure. Beginning in Wellington, self-proclaimed nosy parker Margolyes wants to find the heart and soul of the country – but did not expect it would be located at a rugby game, a sport she “loathes”. Can 30,000 die-hard fans (and meeting national women’s team, the Black Ferns) change her mind?
Whether you know Colombian American actor John Leguizamo (pictured) as Romeo+Juliet’s Tybalt, artist Toulouse-Lautrec in Moulin Rouge!or Sid in IceAge, his face (or voice) is sure to ring a bell. In this travelogue, the cinematic chameleon crosses the United States to celebrate the diverse Latino cultures in six destinations. Tonight’s double-episode starter takes us to Jackson Heights, the Queens borough that shaped Leguizamo; before hitting Miami’s historic sector.
SBS (3)
6am Morning Programs. 9.15 For The Love Of Dogs. (PGa, R) 10.15 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGal, R) 11.05 Great Canal Journeys. (PG, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Such Was Life. (R) 2.10 Heritage Rescue. (R) 3.00 Railway Journeys UK. (PG, R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! (R) 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Motor Racing. Dakar Rally. Stage 5. Highlights.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 MOVIE: The Prestige. (2006, Mav, R) Two rival magicians battle each other. Hugh Jackman, Christian Bale. 9.55 Rock Legends: Elton John. (PGd) Documents the career of Elton John.
10.25 SBS World News Late.
10.55 Every Family Has A Secret: Grace Karskens And Ming Balintong. (Final, PG, R) 11.55 De Gaulle. (Mv)
12.50 Kin. (MA15+lv, R) 2.45 Grayson’s Art Club. (PG, R) 3.35 Make Me
A Dealer. (R) 4.25 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
The National. 9.30 BBC News At Six. 10.00 Front Up. Noon France 24 English News. 12.30 Hunters. 1.20 Question Team. 2.15 Fanatics: The Deep End. 2.45 Scandinavian Star. 3.55 BBC News At Ten. 4.25 ABC
SEVEN (6, 7)
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show Summer Series. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News. 12.00 MOVIE: As Gouda As It Gets. (2020, PG) 2.00 Motorbike Cops. (PGl, R) 2.15 Catch Phrase. (PG, R) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 29. Hobart Hurricanes v Sydney Thunder. 10.30 Big Bash League Post-Game. Post-match coverage of the game between the Hobart Hurricanes and Sydney Thunder. 11.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. (R) Johanna Griggs learns about UPPAREL’s clothing recycling. Adam Dovile tours Singapore’s culture.
12.30 The Real Manhunter: The Bus Stop Killer Levi Bellfield. (Madv, R) Takes a look at Levi Bellfield. 2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 5.00 NBC Today.
7TWO (62, 72) SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 4.50pm Bluey. 5.00 Peppa Pig. 5.10 Pfffirates. 5.20 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 5.35 Peter Rabbit. 5.45 Hey Duggee. 5.55 Paddington. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 Teen Titans Go! 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.25 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.50 Robot Wars. 9.50 Doctor Who. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)
Homeland. 1.20am MOVIE: The Operative. (2019, MA15+) 3.25 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera Newshour.
To Grandpa. 10.00 Seasons Of The Wild. 10.50 NITV News: Summer Yarns. 11.00 Going Places. Noon MOVIE: Ping Pong Summer. (2014, PG) 1.40 No Ordinary Black. 1.50 Just Another Day In Indulkana.
Home Shopping. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 RSPCA Animal Rescue. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes And Gardens. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 2.30 To Be Advised. 3.00 DVine Living. 3.30 Harry’s
NINE (8, 9)
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra Summer. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Sparks Over Brooklyn. (2023, PGa, R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. (PG, R) 5.00[MELB]TippingPointAustralia.(PG, R) 5.30 WIN News.
6.00 9News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Find My Beach House Australia. Presented by Shelley Craft.
8.30 MOVIE: King Richard. (2021, Malv) Charts how Venus and Serena Williams became who they are thanks to the coaching of their father Richard. Will Smith, Saniyya Sidney, Demi Singleton.
11.30 Casualty 24/7. (Mm, R)
12.20 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.10 Delish. (R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Drive TV. (R)
TEN (5, 10)
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.
6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 MOVIE: The First Wives Club. (1996, PGal, R) Three women, dumped by their husbands for younger women, decide to get revenge. Goldie Hawn, Bette Midler. 9.35 MOVIE: Starsky & Hutch. (2004, Mdlv, R) Two bumbling yet streetwise cops investigate a drug-running cartel with the help of their trusty informant. Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson. 11.40 The Project. (R) 12.40 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.30 Home Shopping. (R)
10 PEACH (52, 11)
Change of scenery: Miriam Margolyes visits the Hobbiton film set.
Saturday, January 11
ABC TV (2) SBS (3)
6.00 Rage Charts. (PG) 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. (PG) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Beyond Paradise. (Ma, R) 1.30 MOVIE: Casablanca. (1942, PG, R) Humphrey Bogart, Ingrid Bergman, Claude Rains. 3.15 Lucy Worsley: Agatha Christie Mystery Queen. (PG, R) 4.15 Joanna Lumley’s Great Cities Of The World. (PG, R) 5.00 Eat The Invaders. (PG, R) 5.30 Dr Karl’s How Things Work. (R)
6.00 Brian Cox: Life Of A Universe: Creation. (R) English physicist Professor Brian Cox sets out in search of a greater understanding of the cosmos.
6.30 Back Roads: Andamooka And Roxby Downs, South Australia. (PG, R) Presented by Heather Ewart.
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Beyond Paradise. (PGa) Humphrey investigates a strange case.
8.30 Vera. (Mv, R) Vera must unravel the mystery of a murdered family man, who was found beaten to death the day before he was due to testify in court on a case involving a local sportsman accused of assault. 10.00 Shetland. (Final, Mal, R) Tosh and Calder try to unravel the mystery. 11.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Music video clips.
6am Morning Programs. 9.05 The World From Above. (PGa, R) 10.05 Love Your Garden. (R) 11.00 Britain’s Great Outdoors. (R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 Surf Life Saving. Shaw and Partners Iron Series. Round 2. Day 1. 3.00 PBS News. 4.00 Plat Du Tour. (R) 4.05 Forgotten Frontlines. (PGav, R) 5.00 Motor Racing. Dakar Rally. Prologue to Stage 5. Highlights.
6.00 Grand Tours Of Scotland’s Rivers. (PG) 6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Magical Train Journeys In Switzerland: On The Bernina Express From St Moritz To Tirano. 8.30 Cotswolds And Beyond With Pam Ayres: Longleat House. (R) Pam Ayres visits Longleat House. 9.20 Great Australian Walks With Julia Zemiro. (PG, R) Julia Zemiro heads to central Victoria. 10.20 Great Australian Railway Journeys. (PGa, R) 11.25 Mister8. (MA15+a, R) 1.35 Love Your Garden. (PG, R) 2.30 Make Me A Dealer. (R) 4.15 Peer To Peer. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
SEVEN (6, 7)
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show Summer Series. (PG) 12.00 Border Security: America’s Front Line. (PG, R) 12.30 Surf Patrol. (R) 1.00 Horse Racing. Gold Coast Magic Millions Raceday. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: International. (PGadl) A dentist from Kiev hopes for an extended stay in the US after fleeing war-torn Ukraine. 7.30 MOVIE: Back To The Future Part III. (1990, PGlv, R) Marty McFly travels back in time to the Old West to rescue his mad-scientist friend. Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Mary Steenburgen. 10.00 MOVIE: Mercury Rising. (1998, Mlv, R) A renegade FBI agent protects a nine-year-old autistic boy who is in danger of being assassinated. Bruce Willis, Alec Baldwin, Chi McBride. 12.25 MOVIE: Deadly Seduction. (2021, MA15+av) A professor is pursued by a stalker. Lindsay Hartley, Andrew Rogers.
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R)
5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)
7TWO (62, 72)
NINE (8, 9)
TEN (5, 10)
6.00 The Garden Gurus. (R) 6.30 A Current Affair. (R) 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra Summer. (PG) 12.00 Destination WA. (PG, R) 12.30 Find My Beach House Australia. (R) 1.30 MOVIE: Problem Child. (1990, PGlv, R) John Ritter. 3.10 MOVIE: Everything, Everything. (2017, PGals, R) Amandla Stenberg. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Country House Hunters Australia. (PG, R) 6am Morning Programs.
6.00 9News Saturday.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 MOVIE: Rams. (2020, PGalv)
A decades-long feud between two sheep farming brothers comes to a head when disaster strikes their flocks. Sam Neill, Michael Caton.
9.50 MOVIE: Just A Farmer. (2024, Maln)
A newly widowed mother is left to care for an alcoholic father-in-law and a failing farm. Leila Mcdougall, Joel Jackson.
11.50 MOVIE: Avarice. (2022, Malv, R)
An archer’s family is abducted. Gillian Alexy.
1.30 Country House Hunters Australia. (PG, R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa)
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
5.30 Helping Hands Summer Series. (PG, R)
9GEM (81, 92)
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Amy and Kunal hope that getting a dog will help their boy, Arnav, get his spark back.
8.30 The Dog House. (PGa, R) Dogs are matched with companions. A basset hound is on the prowl for a new owner. Second chances are in store for a Jack Russell puppy. A couple have to see past a pooch’s size to find a place for it. 9.30 Ambulance Australia. (Mms, R) Paramedics respond to a child’s call about a five-year-old stuck in mud, but all is not as it seems. A suspected stroke at an alleged workplace, only to find a severely intoxicated man at a party. 10.45 Ambulance UK. (Madl, R) Someone threatens to use a nerve agent against the emergency services. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power. Religious program.
6am Morning Programs. 12.05pm MOVIE: Belle. (2013, PG) 1.55 Africa’s Underwater Wonders. 2.50 Carpool Koorioke. 2.55 MOVIE: The Endangered Generation? (2022, PG) 4.30 Strait To The Plate. 5.00 Spirit Talker. 5.30 Ice Cowboys. 6.20 NITV News: Summer Yarns. 6.30 The Other Side. 7.30 Alone Australia. 8.30 MOVIE: Hellboy. (2019, MA15+) 10.35 Nina Simone: Live At Montreux. 11.55 Late Programs. NITV (34)
6am The
7MATE (64, 73)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.55pm Paddington. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Good Game Spawn Point. 7.55 MOVIE: Billionaire Boy. (2016) 8.55 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.40 Speechless. 10.00 Officially Amazing. 10.30 Teen Titans Go! 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 Wild Manes. 8.30 Children’s Programs. 1.55pm MOVIE: The Black Stallion Returns. (1983) 3.55 MOVIE: Combat Wombat. (2020, PG) 5.40 MOVIE: Monster Family. (2017, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them. (2016, M) 10.10 MOVIE: The Campaign. (2012, MA15+) Midnight The Originals. 2.00 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. 3.00 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 1pm Blokesworld. 1.30 The Weekend Prospector. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00
9GO! (82, 93)
Bookshop. Continued. (2017, PG) 7.15 The Majestic. (2001, PG) 10.00 The Zookeeper’s Wife. (2017, M) 12.20pm Wild Target. (2010, M) 2.10 3 Days In Quiberon. (2018, PG, French) 4.20 Lucky You. (2007, PG) 6.35 Queen Bees. (2021, PG) 8.30 The Unlikely Pilgrimage Of Harold Fry. (2023, M) 10.30 The Girlfriend Experience. (2009, M) Midnight Cousins. (2021, M) 1.50 Late Programs.
Sunday, January 12
ABC TV (2) SBS (3)
6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Breaky. 9.55 Secret Science. (PG, R) 10.25 Boyer Lecture. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PGa, R) 11.30 Praise. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. (R) 12.55 New Leash On Life. (R) 1.55 Dream Gardens. (R) 2.25 The Secret History Of The British Garden. (R) 3.25 Long Lost Family. (R) 4.10 Extraordinary Escapes. (PG, R) 5.00 Magda’s Big National Health Check. (PG, R)
6.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) Hosted by Fiona Bruce.
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Miriam Margolyes In New Zealand. (Ml) Miriam Margolyes explores New Zealand.
8.30 Miniseries: Until I Kill You. (Mal) Charts the story of Delia Balmer, who survived a series of violent attacks to pursue a traumatic journey to justice.
10.05 You Can’t Ask That: Porn Stars. (MA15+s, R) Porn stars share their insights. 11.10 MOVIE: A Star Is Born. (1976, Madls, R) Barbra Streisand.
1.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.10 Australia Remastered. (R) 4.05 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.05 The Great Acceleration. (R)
6.00 DW English News. 6.30 Al Jazeera News. 7.00 APAC Weekly. (R) 7.30 France 24 English News. 8.00 DD India News Hour. 9.00 PBS Washington Week With The Atlantic. 9.25 Judo. (R) 9.30 FIFA World Cup Classic Matches. 11.30 Speedweek. 1.30 Cycling. National Road Championships. Women’s U23 and Men’s Elite Road Race. 5.30 Motor Racing. Dakar Rally. Stage 6. Highlights.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Fortress Britain With Alice Roberts: Avoiding Armageddon. (PGa, R) Alice Roberts takes a look at the Cold War. 8.25 Asia’s Ancient Civilisations: Japan’s Vibrant Ryukyu Kingdom. (PG, R) Peter Lee heads to the Ryukyu Archipelago, the setting for the small but vibrant Ryukyu Kingdom. 10.15 Putin And The West: A Dangerous Path. (Ma, R) 11.25 Michael Mosley’s 21 Day Body Challenge. (PG, R) 2.10 Love Your Garden. (R) 3.05 Make Me A Dealer. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (PGa, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera News.
(6, 7)
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Women’s Ashes Pre-Game Show. 10.30 Cricket. The Women’s Ashes. One Day International. Australia v England. Game 1. From North Sydney Oval. 3.00 Cricket. The Women’s Ashes. One Day International. Australia v England. Game 1. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (R)
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 32. Melbourne Renegades v Melbourne Stars. 10.30 Big Bash League Post-Game. Post-match coverage of the game between the Melbourne Renegades and Melbourne Stars.
11.00 7NEWS Spotlight. (R) A look at the death of Amy Wensley.
12.00 The Duke And I. (PG, R)
A look at Prince Philip’s influence.
1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R) Presented by Greg Grainger.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.
4.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs.
5.00 Sunrise 5am News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Hello SA. (PG, R) Looks at the best ways to have fun in SA.
6.30 A Current Affair. (R) 7.00 Weekend Today. News, current affairs and sports.
10.00 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. Hosted by Tony Jones. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Day 1. 4.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Afternoon 1. 6am Morning Programs. 10.00
6.00 9News Sunday.
7.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 1. From Melbourne Park. Hosted by James Bracey. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Late Night 1.
12.00 New Amsterdam. (Mam, R) Bloom, Iggy and Reynolds rally around Max as he deals with the fallout from Helen’s decision.
1.00 First On Scene. (Mav, R) Documents stories behind the headlines.
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) Religious program.
4.30 GolfBarons. (PG, R) The team roadtests the Mizuno ST220 drivers.
5.00 Today Early News. A look at the latest news, sport and weather.
5.30 Today. The latest in news and current affairs.
6.00 The Sunday Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.00 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Dr Chris Brown. 8.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Mlv) Graham Norton is joined on the couch by celebrities Cher, Michael Fassbender, Keira Knightley, Josh Brolin and Jalen Ngonda. 9.30 MOVIE: Scream VI. (2023, MA15+lv) Four survivors from the most recent Woodsboro killings move to New York City for a fresh start. Melissa Barrera, Jenna Ortega, Courteney Cox. 11.55 The Sunday Project. (R) A look at the day’s news. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.
6am Morning Programs. 10.35 Jeopardy! 12.40pm Bamay. 1.00 Ironman. Shaw and Partners Series. 3.00 Cook Up Bitesize. 3.05 Fashionista. 3.15 Bamay. 3.35 WorldWatch. 4.05 PBS Washington Week. 4.35 Queer Sports. 5.30 The Engineering That Built The World. 6.30 Toby Price Dakar Preview. 7.00 Cycling. National Road C’ships. U23 Women’s and Men’s Elite Road 10.30 Late Programs.
7TWO (62, 72) 6am Children’s Programs. 5.45pm Hey Duggee. 5.55 Paddington. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Moominvalley. (Premiere) 8.00 The Secret Life Of Our Pets. 8.50 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.35
6am Morning Programs. 11.00 I Escaped To The Country. Noon Escape To The Country. 1.00 My Greek Odyssey. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Better Homes. 3.30 Steam Train Journeys. 4.30 Australia’s Amazing Homes. 5.30 I Escaped To The Country. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Rosemary & Thyme. 8.30 McDonald And Dodds. 10.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 11.30 Late Programs.
9GEM (81, 92)
6am Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. 6.30 Amazing Facts With Doug Batchelor. 7.00 Leading The Way. 7.30 In Touch Ministries. 8.00 Beyond Today. 8.30 The Incredible Journey Presents. 9.00 Turning Point With David Jeremiah. 9.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 10.00 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Day 1. 6pm Tennis. Australian Open. Night 1. 11.00 Late Programs.
Monday, January 13
ABC TV (2) SBS (3)
6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News
Mornings. 10.00 McCartney 3, 2, 1. (PG, R)
10.30 Vera. (Mv, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon.
1.00 Australia’s Open. (Ml, R)
2.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R)
3.00 Back Roads. (PG, R)
3.25 Grand Designs. (PG, R)
4.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 7.30. Presented by Laura Tingle. 8.00 Escaping Utopia. (Premiere) A look at the Gloriavale Christian community.
9.00 You Can’t Ask That: Former Cult Members. (Mal, R) Former cult members share their stories.
9.35 Shakespeare: Rise Of A Genius: Fortune And Tragedy. (Ml, R) A family tragedy devastates Shakespeare.
10.35 ABC Late News.
10.50 Lucy Worsley: Agatha Christie Mystery Queen. (PG, R)
11.50 Grand Designs. (PG, R)
12.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.30 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.10 Parkinson In Australia. (PGa, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30
7.30. (R)
6am Morning Programs. 11.15 Great Canal Journeys. (PGas, R) 12.10 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News Weekend. 1.25 Al Jazeera News Hour. 2.00 Heritage Rescue. (R) 2.50 Railway Journeys UK. (PG, R) 3.25 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! (R) 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Motor Racing. Dakar Rally. Stage 7. Highlights.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PGl, R) Presented by Marc Fennell.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Mystery Of Blackbeard’s Lost Treasure. (PGav, R) A look at Blackbeard’s treasure.
8.25 Jimmy Carr’s I Literally Just Told You. Jimmy Carr hosts a comedic game show where paying attention pays off.
9.20 Inside Sydney Airport: Emergency Exercise. (PGal, R) Airport operations are placed in jeopardy due to a series of incidents.
10.15 SBS World News Late.
10.45 Clean Sweep. (Madlsv) 11.40 Wisting. (MA15+a, R)
12.35 Faking Hitler. (Mns, R)
2.25 Grayson’s Art Club. (PG, R) 3.20 Make Me A Dealer. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
9.30
Tuesday, January 14
The Lost World. (PG, R) 2.55 The Weekly Football Wrap. (R) 3.25 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! (R) 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00
SEVEN (6, 7)
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show Summer Series. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News. 12.00 MOVIE: Lost And Found In Rome. (2021, PGa) Sophie Vavasseur, Paolo Bernardini. 2.00 Jabba’s Movies School Holiday Special. (PGahlv, R) 2.30 Border Security: International. (PG, R) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (Return, PGav)
7.30 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 33. Sydney Thunder v Perth Scorchers. From ENGIE Stadium, Sydney. 11.00 Big Bash League Post-Game. Post-match coverage of the game between the Sydney Thunder and Perth Scorchers.
11.30 Motorway Patrol. (PG)
A driver gets sleepy and goes bush. Officers meet a stoned slurpee sipper. A motorist forgets to check his nuts. 12.00 Satisfaction. (MA15+ads, R) Simon is faced with a family mystery. Adriana and Grace must work together against an enemy.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs.
5.00 Sunrise 5am News. The latest news, sport and weather.
5.30 Sunrise. News, sport and weather.
NINE (8, 9)
6.00 Today. The latest in news and current affairs. 10.00 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. Hosted by Tony Jones. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Day 2. 4.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Afternoon 2. From Melbourne Park. Hosted by Roz Kelly and James Bracey.
6.00 9News. 7.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 2. From Melbourne Park. Hosted by James Bracey. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Late Night 2. 12.00 New Amsterdam. (Mam, R) Wilder struggles with a patient’s decision to refuse life-saving surgery. Iggy tries online dating.
1.00 First On Scene. (Mad, R) Documents stories behind the headlines.
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R) Home shopping.
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) Religious program.
4.30 GolfBarons. (PG, R) A panel of experts discusses golf.
5.00 Today Early News. A look at the latest news, sport and weather.
5.30 Today. The latest in news and current affairs.
TEN (5, 10)
6.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 7.30.
8.00 Dr Karl’s How Things Work: Chocolate.
8.30 Eat The Invaders: Carp. (PG) Hosted by Tony Armstrong.
9.05 The Penguin King With David Attenborough. (R) Follows a penguin’s search for a mate.
10.00 Miriam Margolyes In New Zealand. (Ml, R) 11.05 ABC Late News. 11.20 Murder In Provence. (Mav, R) 12.50 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 1.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 2.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.40 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30
7.30. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) Presented by Marc Fennell. 6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? Miranda Otto. (PG, R) Miranda Otto explores her roots. 8.40 Came From Nowhere. (Ml, R) Marc Fennell charts the rise of A-League team the Western Sydney Wanderers. 10.25 SBS World News Late. 10.55 Beyond Signs. (MA15+a) 11.55 Christian. (Malv, R) 3.00 Grayson Perry’s Rites Of Passage. (Mas, R) 3.55 Make Me A Dealer. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 34. Hobart Hurricanes v Melbourne Renegades. From Ninja Stadium, Hobart. 11.00 Big Bash League Post-Game. Post-match coverage of the game.
11.30 Lockerbie. (PGav, R) The CIA hand over a Libyan double agent.
12.35 Underarm: The Ball That Changed Cricket. (PGl, R) A look at the 1981 underarm bowling controversy.
1.30 Harry’s Practice. (R) Information about pet care.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs.
5.00 Sunrise 5am News.
5.30 Sunrise.
Australian Open. Day 3. 4.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Afternoon 3. From Melbourne Park. Hosted by Roz Kelly and James Bracey.
6.00 9News.
7.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 3. From Melbourne Park. Hosted by James Bracey. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Late Night 3.
12.00 New Amsterdam. (Mam, R) There is an explosion at a wedding ceremony.
1.00 First On Scene. (Mv) Documents stories behind the headlines.
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Our State On A Plate. (PG, R) Georgia Moore bags some great groceries.
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) Religious program.
4.30 GolfBarons. (PG, R) A panel of experts banter about golf.
5.00 Today Early News. A look at the latest news, sport and weather.
5.30 Today.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. The hosts and guest panellists take a look at the day’s news, events and hot topics.
7.30 MOVIE: Dungeons & Dragons: Honour Among Thieves. (2023, Mav) A charming thief and a band of unlikely adventurers undertake an epic heist to retrieve a lost relic. Chris Pine, Michelle Rodriguez, Hugh Grant. 10.20 10’s Late News. Comprehensive coverage of local, national and international news, as well as the latest sport and weather. 10.45 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news.
11.50 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news.
7.30 MOVIE: Jack Reacher. (2012, Mlv, R) A former US Army military police officer investigates the shooting of five innocent civilians by a sniper. Tom Cruise, Rosamund Pike, Jai Courtney. 10.05 10’s Late News. Comprehensive coverage of local, national and international news, as well as the latest sport and weather. 10.30 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news.
The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings. 6am WorldWatch. 10.00 Front Up. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Land Of The Giants: Titans Of Tech. 2.05 Dark Side Of The ‘90s. 2.55
Wednesday, January 15
ABC TV (2) SBS (3)
6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News
Mornings. 10.00 The Way We Wore. (PG, R)
11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Changing Ends. (PG, R)
2.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R)
2.55 Back Roads. (R)
3.25 Grand Designs. (PG, R)
4.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 7.30. Presented by Laura Tingle. 8.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) Hosted by Adam Hills.
8.30 Changing Ends. (PG) Christine forces a stressed Graham into going on a caravan mini-break in Great Yarmouth.
9.20 Utopia. (PG, R) Tony is frozen out by the minister when he is reluctant to announce an ambitious new project.
10.15 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)
10.45 ABC Late News.
11.05 Aftertaste. (Mls, R)
12.05 Grand Designs. (PG, R)
12.50 Long Lost Family. (PG, R)
1.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.40 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Morning Programs. 11.00 Great Canal Journeys. (PGa, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Amazon: The Lost World. (PG, R) 2.55 Plat Du Tour. 3.05 Destination Flavour China. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! (R) 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Motor Racing. Dakar Rally. Stage 9. Highlights.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 The Real Crown: Inside The House Of Windsor: Threats. (PG, R) The Falklands War breaks out.
8.30 Michael Palin: Into Iraq. (PGa, R) Michael Palin continues his journey into the heart of Iraq, arriving in Kirkuk. 9.25 The Night Manager. (MA15+v) Roper gathers his entourage. 10.30 SBS World News Late. 11.00 Pagan Peak. (MA15+av) 11.50 Rogue Heroes. (Malv, R)
12.50 Soldiers. (Malsv, R) 2.35 Grayson Perry’s Rites Of Passage. (Mal, R) 3.30 Make Me A Dealer. (PGl, R) 4.20 Peer To Peer. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am WorldWatch.
10.00 Front Up. 12.10pm WorldWatch. 12.40 Hudson & Rex. 2.20 Unknown Amazon. 3.15 Cook Up Bitesize. 3.20 The Weekly Football Wrap. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.50 Alone. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 1982: The Greatest Geek Year Ever. 9.15 MOVIE: The Year Of Living Dangerously. (1982, M) 11.20 MOVIE: Goon. (2011, MA15+) 1am Late Programs.
SEVEN (6, 7)
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show Summer Series. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News. 12.00 MOVIE: Royal Blossom. (2021, PGa) 2.00 Motorbike Cops. (PG, R) 2.15 Catch Phrase. (PG, R) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) 7.30 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 35. Adelaide Strikers v Sydney Sixers. From Adelaide Oval. 11.00 Big Bash League Post-Game. Post-match coverage of the game between the Adelaide Strikers and Sydney Sixers. 11.30 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera. (PGa, R) Footage of headline-grabbing moments, including a climber taking a 12.1m fall that is captured on his bodycam. 12.30 Black-ish. (PGd, R) Bow convinces Dre to attend a fundraising event where they meet Michelle Obama. 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs. 5.00 Sunrise 5am News. The latest news, sport and weather. 5.30 Sunrise. News, sport and weather.
NINE (8, 9)
6.00 Today. The latest in news and current affairs. 10.00 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. Hosted by Tony Jones. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Day 4. 4.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Afternoon 4. From Melbourne Park. Hosted by Roz Kelly and James Bracey.
6.00 9News. 7.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 4. From Melbourne Park. Hosted by James Bracey. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Late Night 4. 12.00 New Amsterdam. (Mams, R) Max mandates a personal health day for the staff and is met with resistance.
1.00 First On Scene. (Ma) Documents stories behind the headlines.
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R) Home shopping.
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) Religious program.
4.30 GolfBarons. (PG, R) A panel of experts banter about golf.
5.00 Today Early News. A look at the latest news, sport and weather.
5.30 Today. The latest in news and current affairs.
(81,
TEN (5, 10)
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. The hosts and guest panellists take a look at the day’s news, events and hot topics.
7.30 MOVIE: Jack Reacher: Never Go Back. (2016, Mlv, R) Jack Reacher helps an army officer he suspects is the victim of a conspiracy. Tom Cruise, Cobie Smulders, Danika Yarosh. 9.55 10’s Late News. Comprehensive coverage of local, national and international news, as well as the latest sport and weather. 10.20 The Project. (R) The hosts and guest panellists take a look at the day’s news, events and hot topics. 11.25 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.
6am Shopping. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Animal Rescue. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 TBA. 2.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Heartbeat. 8.45 The Inspector Lynley Mysteries. 10.45 Late Programs. 6am Danger Man. 7.00 Creflo Dollar Ministries. 7.30 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. 8.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. 10.00 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Day 4. 6pm Tennis. Australian Open. Night 4. 11.00 Midsomer Murders. 1am Creflo Dollar Ministries. 1.30 MOVIE: The Loves Of Joanna Godden.
6am Morning Programs. 2pm Family Rules. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 3.25 Little J And Big Cuz. 3.35 Spartakus. 4.05 Cities Of Gold. 4.35 Motown Magic. 5.00 Our Stories. 5.15 Harlem Globetrotters. 6.00 Bamay. 6.30 NITV News: Summer Yarns. 6.40 Africa’s Underwater Wonders. 7.35 Great Australian Walks. 8.30 Island Echoes With Nornie Bero. 9.00 MOVIE: Kiss The Girls. (1997, MA15+) 11.05 Late Programs. NITV (34)
SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)
7TWO (62, 72) SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 5.45pm Hey Duggee. 5.55 Paddington. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 The Deep. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 7.50 The Inbestigators. 8.05 Operation Ouch! 8.35 Doctor Who. 10.10 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 10.35 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Hop. 6.30 Children’s Programs. Noon Motor Racing. Formula E. Mexico City ePrix. H’lights. 1.00 Surf Boat Tsunami. 2.00 Bewitched. 2.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 3.00 The Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 News. 6.00 Tennis. Austn Open. Afternoon 4. 7.00 The Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: The Matrix Reloaded. (2003, M) 11.15 Seinfeld. 11.45 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 11.00 American Pickers. Noon Pawn Stars. 1.00 Outback Truckers. 3.00 Billy The Exterminator. 3.30 Full Custom Garage. 4.30 Storage Wars. 5.00 American Resto. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Highway Patrol. 8.30 The Force: Behind The Line. 9.30 World’s Wildest Police Videos. 10.30 Surviving The Moment Of Impact. (Premiere) 11.30 Late Programs.
7MATE (64, 73)
9GO! (82, 93) 6am Belle. Continued. (2013, PG) 6.55 Meditation Park. (2017, PG) 8.45 The Silver Brumby. (1993, PG) 10.35 Ten Canoes. (2006, M, Ganalbingu) 12.10pm The Quiet Girl. (2022, M, Gaelic) 1.55 Another Mother’s Son. (2017, PG) 3.55 Lola. (1961, PG, French) 5.30 The Last Wave. (1977, PG) 7.30 A Bronx Tale. (1993, M) 9.45 Romper Stomper. (1992, MA15+) 11.25 Late Programs.
Thursday, January 16
ABC TV (2) SBS (3)
(6, 7)
(8, 9) 6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Eat The Invaders. (PG, R) 10.30 Back Roads. (PG, R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 The Penguin King With David Attenborough. (R) 1.55 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 2.55 Back Roads. (R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 4.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 5.55 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R)
6.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 7.30. Presented by Laura Tingle.
8.00 Back Roads: Camperdown, Victoria. (PG) Presented by Kerry Staight.
8.30 Long Lost Family. (PG) Davina McCall and Nicky Campbell follow a trainee nurse who fears what happened to her brother.
9.20 Grand Designs: Tunbridge Wells. (PG, R) Hosted by Kevin McCloud. 10.05 Dr Karl’s How Things Work: Chocolate. (R)
10.40 ABC Late News.
10.55 Escaping Utopia. (R)
11.55 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 12.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.30 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.10 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Morning Programs. 11.05 Great Canal Journeys. (PGa, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Amazon: The Lost World. (PG, R) 2.55 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.05 Destination Flavour China. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! (R) 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Motor Racing. Dakar Rally. Stage 10. Highlights.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG) Rae Johnston meets a chocolatier.
8.30 Silk Road From Above. (PGa, R) Documents an aerial journey along the ancient Silk Road, beginning in Xi’an, China. 9.30 The Darkness. (M) Magnus assigns Hulda a new partner.
10.25 SBS World News Late. 10.55 DNA. (Malv) 11.50 Blackout: Tomorrow Is Too Late. (Mlnsv, R) 12.45 Blanca. (Malnv, R) 2.45 Grayson Perry’s Rites Of Passage. (Ms, R) 3.40 Make Me A Dealer. (R) 4.30 Peer To Peer. (PGv, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show Summer Series. (PG) 11.30 Seven Morning News. 12.00 MOVIE: The Valley Of Love. (2023, PGal) 2.00 Catch Phrase. (PG, R) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)
7.30 Cricket. Big Bash League. Match 36. Brisbane Heat v Hobart Hurricanes. From the Gabba, Brisbane. 11.00 Seven’s Cricket: The Spin. An expert panel tackles all the big news and issues with a deep dive into the wild world of cricket.
11.45 Pam & Tommy. (MA15+als) Pam is pushed to the emotional brink. 12.45 Black-ish. (PGa, R) Jack gets a job as a locker room attendant.
1.40 Harry’s Practice. (R) Information about pet care.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs.
5.00 Sunrise 5am News.
5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 Today. The latest in news and current affairs. 10.00 Australian Open Tennis Pre-Show. Hosted by Tony Jones. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Day 5. 4.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Afternoon 5. From Melbourne Park. Hosted by Roz Kelly and James Bracey.
6.00 9News.
7.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Night 5. From Melbourne Park. Hosted by James Bracey. 11.00 Tennis. Australian Open. Late Night 5. 12.00 New Amsterdam. (Ma, R) Max endeavours to save a nurse.
1.00 First On Scene. (M) Documents stories behind the headlines.
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R) Home shopping.
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) Religious program.
4.30 GolfBarons. (PGl, R) A panel of experts banter about golf.
5.00 Today Early News. A look at the latest news, sport and weather.
5.30 Today.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer.
6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 MOVIE: Top Gun: Maverick. (2022, Mlv, R) An aviator trains a detachment of Top Gun graduates for a mission while confronting the ghosts of his past. Tom Cruise, Miles Teller, Jennifer Connelly. 10.05 10’s Late News. Comprehensive coverage of local, national and international news, as well as the latest sport and weather. 10.30 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news. 11.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert. 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings. 6am WorldWatch. 10.00 Front Up. 12.05pm WorldWatch. 12.35 The
Homicide: Life On The Street. 12.55am Cars That Built The World. 1.45 Question Team. 3.35 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. 6am Shopping. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Animal Rescue. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Mt Hutt Rescue. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Animal Rescue.
Viking Vela joins fleet
Viking have proudly announced it has taken delivery of the company’s newest ocean ship, theVikingVela.
Classified as a small ship, as are all Viking ocean ships, the Viking Vela has 499 stateroomsthatcanhost998guests.
VikingChairmanandCEOTorsteinHagen said the Viking Vela joins the company’s growing fleet of award-winning ocean ships and will spend her inaugural season sailing itineraries in the Mediterranean and in NorthernEurope.
“We are proud to welcome the newest sister ship to our award-winning ocean fleet,” he said.
“Together with our partner Fincantieri, we have built the world’s most elegant small oceanships.”
“With the arrival of our newest vessel, we look forward to introducing even more curious travellers to the Viking way of |exploration.”
He said Viking was working on a project for a partial hybrid propulsion system for future ocean ships based on liquid hydrogen and fuel cells, which could allow the company to operate at zero-emission in the Norwegian Fjords and other sensitive environments.
While the Viking Vela has a traditional propulsion platform, she is considered hydrogen-ready and can be retrofitted in the future.
The delivery ceremony took place when the shipwaspresentedatFincantieri’sshipyardin Ancona,Italy.
The naming of the Viking Vela also served as a celebration of Viking’s longtime partnership with Fincantieri, which is one of the world’s largest shipbuilding groups and is basedinTrieste.
With its rich maritime history, Trieste is considered the endpoint to the maritime Silk Road and is now Italy’s most important commercialport.
“WithFincantieriasourpartner,webelieve we have built the world’s most elegant fleet of smalloceanships,”
“We thank Ivana Elice for being the godmother of the Viking Vela. In her role at Fincantieri, she has cared for our ocean ships duringtheirconstructionjustasagodmother would, and we are very appreciative of her contributions as a member of the extended Vikingfamily.”
The Viking Vela is the newest ship in Viking’s award-winning ocean fleet of sister ships. Classified as a small ship, as are all
Vikingoceanships,theVikingVelahasagross tonnage of 54,300 tons, with 499 staterooms that can host 998 guests; the ships feature all veranda staterooms, elegant Scandinavian design,light-filledpublicspacesandabundant alfrescodiningoptions.
The Viking Vela will spend her inaugural season sailing itineraries during the “quiet season” in the Mediterranean before continuingtoNorthernEurope.
The delivery of the Viking Vela follows a string of recent accolades for the company.
Viking was rated number one Oceans, Rivers and Expeditions by Conde Nast Traveler in the 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards forthesecondconsecutiveyear.
This achievement marked the first time a travel company won these three categories in back-to-backyears.
Viking was also named Best Luxury Line, Best Line for Couples and Best Line in the MediterraneaninUS.
News and World Report’s 2025 Best Cruise Lines ranking for the fourth consecutive year.
Viking’s ocean ships have been rated and “Recommended” as part of the Forbes Travel Guide 2024 Star Awards, an annual independent evaluation for luxury travel brands.
Additionally, Viking received seven awards at the 2023 Cruise Critic Editors’ Picks Awards — more than any other line — across the luxury, river and expedition categories.
For further information and cruise informationpleasevisitwebsiteviking.comor phoneReservations(AU)138747.
Norwegian singer Sissel Kyrkjebø, one of the world’s leading crossover sopranos and godmother of the Viking Jupiter, and acclaimed Italian opera singer Alessandro Safina, perform at the naming ceremony of the Viking Vela.
Karine Hagen, Viking Executive Vice President of Product, Torstein Hagen CEO of Viking with Ivana Elice, godmother of the Viking Vela and Ann Ziff, godmother of the Viking Saturn.
LEE MCCARTHY
Viking proudly accepted their newest Ocean Cruise Ship, Viking Vela with 499 staterooms that can host 998 guests.
The exceptional Viking Orion
I was recently extended an invitation to take a ships tour of the stunning Viking Orion docked at Pinkenba Port during an overnight stop in Brisbane.
The Viking Orion was on day 79 of a one-way cruise from Vancouver to Sydney and we were lucky enough to embark during its stopover.
With less than a thousand guests the Orion appeals to the over sixty age group who enjoy retrospective camaraderie and a comfortable dynamic with like-minded guests.
The tour was warm, welcoming, and professional and the ship charming and impossibly perfect.
There’s a whisper across the ship of understated elegance with an abundance of class.
Before you even board the Viking Orion, the passengers you pass disembarking for a day onshore are generous with their smiles and greetings, giving you a sense of what is to come.
From the first step into the heart of the atrium, standing beside the gleaming black grand piano and looking upwards to the ascending staircase you notice the lush seating, the wealth of tasteful art works, unique flooring, and a mood of comfort.
The atrium bar boasts soft blue and grey floral emblems on each bar stool, a nod to Norway’s traditional style of decorative floral painting that originated in the rural valleys of Norway.
When we arrive, the bar is quiet with guests reading or relaxing, but you can imagine the laughter and conversation along with the
clink of glasses and muted music from the lacquered ebony piano as the guests return to the ship for a night’s beverage and the chance to swap stories and enjoy others company.
The Scandinavian themed veranda staterooms with ocean views continue the show off the ship’s minimalism and use of space with crispy linen, monogrammed throws, and classic decor.
The full-size bathroom with heated floors, fluffy quality towels and sufficient wardrobe blended into the panelling inside the stylish main bedroom add to the clever design.
Another highlight harking back to its
origins is the Nordic Spa which has been designed based on the Scandinavian wellness principles of hot and cold. Set next to the fitness centre, the spa features everything you would now expect from Viking with heated beds, sauna, multi jet spas and comfortable lounging chairs along with the world’s first Snow Grotto at sea.
Thereareeightdiningoptionswithexciting menusandequallyexcitingbarareasincluding the dimly lit and luxurious Speakeasy 1940’s cocktailbarwhichtransportsyoutoanywhere in the world in your imagination.
Manfredi’s and the fine dining Chef’s Table
menu change every three days and there is the optiontoenjoyacasualmealanddessertfrom the World Cafe or Mamsen’s.
Wine and beer with lunch and dinner is included in the cruise fare for all guests. The beverage package is optional and allows for premium wine, beer and spirit selections.
I was buoyed to see the selection of quality books in the library and in sitting areas where writing your memoir or next best seller would be appropriate.
The library is curated by Heywood Hill of Notting Hill in London. The selections are different on every ship as the libraries are destination focused.
The pools are surrounded by decadent lounges, with glorious when sailing and a retractable roof to accommodate guests’ enjoyment of the space if the weather is less forgiving.
Naturally, waiters are on hand to deliver cocktails and coffees to grateful recipients.
There are no gimmicks, no dress ups with smart casual the dining dress code relieving guests of the need to conform or compete.
There are too many special features and purposeful design touches to mention however it is fair to say the Founder and Chairman of Viking, Torstein Hagen has had a hand in every aspect of the Viking Cruise success.
It is resplendent example of craftsmanship and attention to detail with guests’ comfort at the forefront of every inch of the ship.
Ten out of ten from me.
For further information please visit www.viking.com or for reservations call (AU) 138 747.
Roomy and well designed, the staterooms and suites are designed for maximum comfort including a bathroom with heated floors and perfect sea views from the balcony.
The luxurious theatre on deck two beside both cinema’s and bar adds to the easy decadence of your Viking cruise.
Few things are as relaxing as a coffee, cocktail or a dip here at the sparkling clean Infinity Pool overlooking the ocean on Viking Orion.
The stunning Viking Orion Atrium boasts a mix of attention to detail, simple lines and luxurious comfort.
LEE MCCARTHY
"Exploration is really the essence of the human spirit."
FRANK B.
EXPL RER
Sailing
Discovering another culture is a wondrous awakening. Sail with us to extraordinary shores where you can immerse yourself in new destinations and unique experiences.
Whether by river or ocean, we have crafted unforgettable journeys across all seven continents so you can explore more of the world.
Enjoy free flight offers with selected river, ocean or expedition voyages, valued up to AU$2,400 per person. Plus AU$500 shipboard credit with any ocean and expedition booking. Available for a limited time only, offers end 31 March 2025.
8
Alice Springs and Coober Pedy including Nitmiluk Gorge Cruise
ï Station to hotel transfers included in Darwin and Adelaide
Hotel Stays
ï 3 night four-star stay in Darwin at the Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront
ï 3 night four-star stay in Adelaide at the Vibe Hotel Adelaide
ï All hotel stays include breakfast
Tours
ï Charles Darwin Harbour Dinner Cruise
ï Barossa and Hahndorf highlights tour
All Flights and Taxes
Your holiday includes
All-Inclusive Rail Journey
ï 3 night all-inclusive rail journey on board the Indian Pacific from Sydney to Perth with all meals, fine wines, and beverages
ï Off Train Experience and short stop in Broken Hill, Adelaide, Cook and Rawlinna
Hotel Stay
ï 5 night four-star stay in Perth at the Crowne Plaza Perth, an IHG Hotel with breakfast
Tours
ï Discover Rottnest Island tour including ferry transfer and Swan River Cruise
ï Half Day Perth & Fremantle Tour
ï 48 hour Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Pass
All Flights, Taxes and Transfers+
FROM THE ARCHIVES
The Independent looks back through the pages of our predecessors
5 years ago
January 8, 2010
Geelong’s council is anticipating raising $4.37 million from parking fines – or $11,972 a day – from offending motorists this financial year.
Fines in previous years have averaged a rise of $376,000 since 2002, but council’s predicting almost an extra $600,000 on last year.
12 years ago
January 11, 2013
New state government problems building rail links to Melbourne Airport have bolstered Avalon Airport’s timeline to develop an international terminal.
A corridor set aside for the airport link to Tullamarine is now to host a new regional rail link, leaving Spring St with anexpensive,politicallyawkwardproblem finding an alternative route.
6 years ago
January 11, 2019
Union officials are set to take industrial action amid fears several dozen Geelong pathology workers could lose their jobs in impending cuts.
Medical Scientists Association of Victoria secretary Paul Elliott threatened totakeAustralianClinicalLabstotheFair Work Commission following a meeting with company management yesterday.
1 year ago
January 12, 2024
The southern hemisphere’s largest tennis academy is set to be built 25km southwest of Geelong.
This world-first partnership will see CORA effectively replicate French tennis coach Patrick Mouratoglou’s flagship facility in Nice on the French Riviera.
Your community aged care home
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
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 Geelong Independent Community Calendar, 1/47 Pakington Street, Geelong West, 3218, or email to editorial@geelongindependent.com.au. Deadline for copy and announcements is 5pm Tuesday.
Belmont Seniors
Players wanted to play 500 each Monday 12.30pm. Belmont Senior Centre, 52 Thomson St, Belmont. 5241 1776
Geelong Vietnam Veterans
Coffee and a chat at 31 Mt Pleasant Rd, Belmont. Open Monday, Wednesday & Friday 10am-3pm. Fortnightly lunch at various locations. Meetings second Monday of each month. Gary 0400-862 727
Welcome mat
Belmont Uniting Church every Friday from 10am to 1pm. Games, lunch and friendship. Fay 0409-361 414
OMNI
Older Men New Ideas men’s friendly informal chat group, South Barwon Community Centre, 33 Mt Pleasant Rd, Belmont, 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month, 10.30am. Allan 0409665608
Lara Community Market
Run by Rotary Club of Lara District every second Sunday of the month at Lara RSL from 9am to 1pm.
Geelong Amateur Radio Club
Storrer Street Clubhouse, Geelong, Wednesdays 1.30pm to 4pm and Fridays at 6.30pm. Robert 0438 409 979, vk3atl.org
Geelong’s Soroptimist International Service club for women and girls, every second Tuesday of the month from 6pm at Belmont RSL. 0455-835 691, geelong@siswp.com
Geelong Sports & Game Fishing
Meets first and third Monday of the month at Belmont Park Pavilion, 7.30pm. John 0409-234 307
Combined Probus Club of Belmont
Central Meets at 10am on the second Wednesday of each month at Waurn Ponds Hotel. Visitors welcome.
Secretary 0417-555 547
Geelong Anglers Club
Meets fourth Wednesday of the month at 7.30pm, 9 Yuille St, Geelong West. Monthly fishing competitions.
Brian 0417-190 092, Ian 0470-114 787
Drysdale CWA
Every second Tuesday at 1pm and crafts every fourth Tuesday at 11.30am of each month at Drysdale RSL Club. Jenny 0452-258 333
Scottish dancing
GOG Scottish Country Dance classes
7.30pm Tuesdays at Leopold Hill Hall, $5. No partner needed.
Vicki 0412-762983, Barbara 0419-511 781
Geelong Scottish Dance Highland dance classes for all ages
Wednesday from 4pm and Saturday from 10am at Western Heights Uniting Church Hall, St Herne Hill.
Christine 0468-311 788, facebook.com/ GeelongScottishDance Bingo
Tuesdays 1pm-3pm, great grocery prizes plus $50 jackpot books $2.50. Belmont Seniors Centre, 52 Thomson St, Belmont. Frank 5241 1776
First steps in music Babies, toddlers and preschoolers
Ballroom dance Leopold Hall, Leopold Hall, 805-809 Bellarine Hwy, Saturday January 11, 7.30pm-11pm, $10 includes supper, music Charles. 0400-500 402
welcome with parent/carer. Thursdays Northern Bay College, Tallis, and Fridays at Northern Bay College, Peacock. Free if living in 3214 postcode, bookings essential. info@bluebirdfoundationinc.org.au
Dragons Abreast Geelong
Dragon boating for breast cancer survivors, Saturdays 12.30pm, Geelong Canoe Club, Marnock Rd, Highton. Free come and try.
Traci 0417-301 226, Facebook Dragons Abreast Geelong - Juggernauts
PlayLinks
Music and art playgroup where babies, toddlers and preschoolers learn together with their parent/carer. Wednesdays St Thomas Aquinas Primary School, Norlane. Free if living in 3214 postcode, bookings essential. info@bluebirdfoundationinc.org.au
GROW Australia
Community organisation offering practical steps and peer support to help recover and maintain mental health through free face to face and online groups. Mondays 7pm, 195 Ormond Rd, East Geelong, Fridays 12.45pm, Vines Rd Community Centre, Hamlyn Heights, Zoom group 7pm Tuesdays. grow.org.au, 1800 558 268
Grovedale Seniors
Indoor bowls Monday 1-3 pm; gentle exercise Tuesday 9-9.45 am; cards (Euchre) Tuesday 1-3pm; bingo Thursday 1-3pm. Grovedale Community Hub, 45 Heyers Rd. Julie 0419-549 521
Laughter Club Geelong
Saturdays 9am, Eastern Beach in front of the swimming enclosure. 30-minutes free laughter yoga done standing or seated. 0418-521 265
Drysdale Day VIEW
Fourth Friday of each month at Portarlington Golf Club for lunch. Margaret 0431-636 090
Geelong Day VIEW
First Monday monthly from 11am at Eastern Hub, East Geelong. geelongdayview@gmail.com
Leopold VIEW
Second Tuesday of each month at Leopold Sportsmans’ Club at 10.30am. leopold.viewclub@gmail com
Geelong Evening VIEW
Third Monday of the month, 6pm at Waurn Ponds Hotel. Von 0414-930 259, geelongeveningview@gmail.com
Lions Club International
Enjoy meeting great people and help out your community at the same time. Clubs all over greater Geelong - see which one is right for you.
Les 0428-466 446
Grovedale Marshall Probus
Second Thursday of the month,10am at The Grovedale Hub, 45 Heyers Rd,
Grovedale. Anne 0425-356 973
Chess
Group chess lessons at Geelong West. Suitable for beginners who have a reasonably firm understanding of the game rules. Kids and adults welcome. Isaac, isaacsmith5603@gmail.com or 0406-199 457
Community kitchen
Do you enjoy cooking or want to learn cooking and budgeting skills with a small group of like-minded people in your community? Are you interested in volunteering to facilitate a Community Kitchen?
healthycommunities@barwonhealth.org. au
Croquet
Drysdale Bowling & Croquet Club, Clifton Springs Rd, Tuesdays from 10am for training, bring a friend. 0428-740 591
Barefoot bowls
Bareena Bowling Club, Newtown, Friday twilight starting 6pm. $15 covers bowls and BBQ. Drinks at Crackerjack bar prices. Wendy 0401-221 061
Grovedale East Ladies Probus Fourth Monday of each month, 9.30am, Belmont RSL. Sally Nelson 0402-450 610
Belmont Central Combined Probus Second Wednesday of each month, 10am, Waurn Ponds Hotel. 0417-555 547
Waurn Ponds Combined Probus Fourth Wednesday of the month, 10am. Maximum 100 members. probussouthpacific.org/microsites/waurn
Lions Club of Geelong Meets 1st & 3rd Monday of each month. Contact below for venues and times. geelong.vic@lions.org.au or Ph 0408 599 962
Geelong Harmony Chorus Women’s four-part harmony singing. All ages encouraged. Rehearsals Mondays 6.45pm at Herne Hill. contact@geelongharmony.com.au, 0406-666 737
Geelong Welsh Ladies Choir Small ladies choir who require no knowledge of the Welsh language. Meet Wednesdays 7pm at St Luke’s, Highton to help each other sing in Welsh and English. 0413-406 433, welshladieschoir.com.au
Chess clubs
Ocean Grove, Tuesdays at 1.30pm at 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove; Portarlington, Mondays at 9.30am, Parks Hall, 87 Newcombe St, Portarlington; and St Leonards, Thursdays at 9.30am, unit 2 1375-1377 Murradoc Rd (on Blanche St), St Leonards. Ralph 0431-458 100 (Ocean Grove), Rob 5259 2290 (Portarlington), Lyn 5292 2162 (St Leonards)
Geelong Scout Heritage Centre
Meets third Sunday of the month, 56 Russell St, Newtown, 10am-3pm. 0419-591 432, geelong.heritage@ scoutsvictoria.com.au Dancer’s Club Geelong Ballroom dance weekly, Leopold Hall 7.30pm-10.30pm. Admission $8 includes supper. Old time, New Vogue and Latin. CDs by Puff and Damian. Russ 5250 1937
Life Activities Club [Geelong Inc]
Arvo tea dance every Thursday, Belmont Pavilion, 2pm-4pm, $5 entry. Val 5251 3529
Belmont Combined Probus First Monday of the month, 9.30am, Geelong RSL Function Room, 50 Barwon Heads Rd. New members and visitors welcome
Pam 0408 520 931, leave a message on 03 5243 4042
Barwon Valley Belmont Probus First Thursday of the month, 10am, Waurn Ponds Hotel.
membership officer 0407-333 263, bobstafford@ozemail.com.au
Sports
Badminton: Corio Leisuretime Centre, Mondays 12.30-2.30pm. Beginners welcome.
Netball: YMCA Riversdale Rd, Monday & Wednesday mornings, Thursday nights. Walking-netball also played. Umpire training available.
Maureen 0429-397 015
Arts National Geelong Welcomes guests and members to monthly lecture series. Details of lecture topics, lecturers and venues at artsnational.au
Peace meditation
Non-religious secular group. Our own peace is the basis of world peace. Whittington Neighbourhood House, 20 Worden Court, Whittington. Saturday December 14, 11am-noon, Belmont Library.
Graeme 0438-785 512
Live music
Bellarine Country Music Group meets Friday nights at Belmont Park Pavilion, music 7pm-10pm, $10 entry all welcome. Guest Artist November 15 is Vanessa Sanger.
Hamlyn Heights Probus
Second Thursday of the month, 10am, Geelong Cement Bowls Club, 200 McCurdy Rd, Herne Hill. Noel 0425-706 339
Geelong Central Probus Third Friday of the month, 9.45 am, Geelong RSL. geelcentprob@gmail.com
Newcomb Probus
Third Wednesday of each month, 10am, East Geelong Uniting Church, cnr Boundary and Ormond Rds. Gary 0407-320 735
Polish language for kids
Fortnightly Polish language classes for kids aged 7-11 at one of Geelong’s libraries. Dorota 5224 1105
Music for preschoolers
Mainly Music is a music and movement program for babies to preschoolers at St Albans-St Andrews Uniting Church, 276 Wilsons Rd, Whittington, Tuesdays 10am during school terms. Rhonda 0437-241 345
Rostrum meets Geelong Rostrum Public Speaking Club Inc meets each Monday. Andrew 0408-369 446, Jan 0407-296 958
Live music
Country Heartbeat Allstars every Friday 7pm-10pm, White Eagle House Polish Club, Fellmongers Rd Breakwater. Walkups welcome. Proceeds to Sunny Days Rescue & Rehab. Entry $10. Dawn 0417-148 493
1/ Linda Meech discussing the ride on Cavalry Girl 2/ Josh Amos and Grace Pizzul. 3/ Stacey Renfrew and Rianne Catoggio. 4/ Sarah Start (committee), Jamie Mott, Luke Rayner (CEO Geelong Racing Club) with Julius Sandhu (owner and trainer of Capricorn Star. 5/ Josh Amos and Grace Pizzul. 6/ Tom Stockdale being interviewed after his win on Cherish Me. 7/ Capricorn Star ridden by Jamie Mott runs passed
Community Cup. 8/ Bicky Bertram, Sarah Lewis, Renee Gleeson and Rhiannon Armstrong. 9/ Cherish Me (Tom Stockdale) wins the Rex Gorell Volkswagen Geelong Diamond from Cavalry Girl 10/ Writey O’Pal leads Capricorn Star (winner) with 150 metres to run. 11/ Writey O’Pal leaves the mounting yard with the clerk of the course. (Linda Meech). 451830
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 Frisk (6)
4 Optimistic (6)
10 Earth (Lat) (5)
11 Reality (9)
12 Insurance (9)
13 Proficient (5)
14 English author Graham – (6)
15 Ornamental quartz (4)
19 Pig meat (4)
20 Two-piece bathing suit (6)
24 Japanese comics (5)
25 Impact; crash (9)
27 Globe-trotter (9)
28 Rome’s river (5)
29 Hue (6)
30 Approach (6) DOWN
1 Surroundings (8)
2 Condensed (8)
3 Monty Python member, Graham – (7)
5 Body of troops (7)
6 Cast out from society (6)
7 Japanese car brand (6)
8 West African nation (4)
9 Remaining; residing (7)
16 Sound of wood burning (7)
17 Lamentable (8)
18 Married Italian women (8)
19 High plains (7)
21 Very stupid (7)
22 Aid to vomiting (6)
23 Involve (6)
26 Old stringed instrument (4)
Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial
1 What is the official language of Peru?
2 What liqueur is the primary ingredient in a grasshopper cocktail?
3 Beginning with ‘b’, what is another name for the tree known as sour gourd?
4 Stephanie Gilmore is a famous Australian: a) tennis player, b) surfer or c) footballer?
5 The ancient works The Iliad and TheOdyssey are attributed to which Greek poet?
6 What is epidemiology the study of?
7 Who was the Roman goddess of love, beauty, sex and fertility?
8 What does HIV stand for?
9 Name the man who Atticus Finch defends in Harper Lee’s classic novel To Kill a Mockingbird
10 Singer Sam Smith (pictured) wrote and performed the theme song for which James Bond film?
Civic service into the future
With a heritage of more than half a century, there is lots that can be said about the Honda Civic.
No navel gazing here, though.
Far from dreamy reminiscences about its-once popular product, the maker says the company is looking strictly to the future with the updated model as a bridge to total electrification of its vehicles.
The entry-level petrol engine has been given the shove, with the new Civic e:HEV L hybrid filling the position, while the e:HEV LX variant is still available. Performance buyers have not been left behind, with the Civic Type R turbo, sans hybrid assistance, still ‘on the grid’.
The e:HEV system combines a naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre petrol engine mated with two electric motors, one that drives the front wheels and the second acting as a generator to charge the high-voltage battery.
Advanced in-car technology updates –including Honda Sensing and next generation Honda Connect with Google built-in – have been added across the range. Prices start at $49,900, plus on-road costs, for the entry-level e:HEV L and top out at $55,900 for the e:HEV LX. As with all Hondas, these prices are non-negotiable.
Every Civic comes standard with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty, five-year Premium Roadside Assist, five $199 services and three-year Honda Connect subscription.
STYLING
Back in the day the Civic – as a two-door fast-back sedan and later as a three-door hatchback – was to become one of the all-time best-selling automobiles in the world, with more than 28 million units sold since 1972.
While the MY25 version looks like a sedan in profile, the Civic is a lift-back with a
According to Honda the new Civic is the harbinger of sustainable-energy driving. (Pictures: Supplied)
low-profilerooflinethatmakesitlooklesslike an upright hatch. Enhanced sportiness is the theme here, with a redesigned front bumper and body-coloured headlamp garnishes combining to present a more powerful front.
QUALITY CAR SERVICING
New 18-inch alloy wheels suggest advanced athleticism.
INTERIOR
Space inside is abundant. Headroom up front is good and heated seats and dual-zone climate control are joined by a heated steering wheel. Storage is not so good, with a pair of cupholders and a small wireless charge tray. A lidded console offers more storage, and front doors have bottle holders.
Thelegroomoutbackisgenerous,andseats include a fold-down armrest, a pair of USB-C ports and air vents.
Boot space of 409 litres with rear seat backs up rear seatbacks up is accessed by a manual liftback which can be awkward to operate. A space under the floor is enough to hide small items, while missing are a full-size or space-saver spare.
The Civic hybrid comes with a tyre repair kit.
INFOTAINMENT
The 9.0-inch infotainment screen now adds Google built-in services. allowing access to Google Assistant, navigation via Google Maps, link to compatible smart home devices and add apps from the Google Play store.
Honda Connect services also provide a link between smartphone and the car, remotely adjusting the climate control air-con, lock or unlock the car, check the vehicle location, and receive car status checks.
A three-year subscription is included.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and wired Android Auto, AM/FM/DAB radio, or Bluetooth are on tap, while a 12-speaker Bose audio system punches above its weight with sound reproduction across all genres.
ENGINES/TRANSMISSIONS
Powering the Civic e:HEV pair is a 2-litre direct injection petrol engine plus a two-motor hybrid system putting out 135kW of power and 315Nm of torque, engineered for ‘engaging levels’ of performance, response and feedback.
SAFETY
The Civic comes with new and advanced activeandpassivesafetytechnology,including Honda Sensing, driver assistance made possible by better front camera software, while Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering body structure is designed to better protect occupants and pedestrians in an accident.
New-generation Honda Connect features a new user-friendly Connected App interface,
improved response time and other new features.
All models come with 11 airbags (with rear-seat side and centre airbags previously not part of the hybrid equipment list).
DRIVING
Get in, press the start/stop button and leave theresttotheCivic.Thepowertrainprioritises electric running, with the ICE chipping in from cold starts, or when battery charge is running low.
The E-CVT automatic is very un-CVT, with smooth running like an EV at low speeds, using the petrol engine to drive the wheels at higher speeds.
The regenerative braking that feeds power back to the battery when coasting can be adjusted via steering wheel paddles.
The Civic e:HEV features more than one selectabledrivemodelettingthedriverchoose throttleresponseandfuelefficiencyaccording to preference or driving conditions.
On offer are Normal or Econ, which reduce throttle and transmission sensitivity as well as air-conditioning to help optimise fuel use and Sport which enhances throttle response, steering feel and engine sound.
Finally, Individual mode enables the driver to select preferred settings including engine responsiveness, steering feel and gauges.
While all this was going on the test Civic recorded average fuel consumption of 4,6 litres per 100 kilometres during a week of family-style motoring. Honda claims a combined urban/highway cycle figure of 4.2 litres per 100 kilometres. Recommended fuel is regular 91-octane unleaded petrol.
SUMMARY
According to Honda the new Civic is the harbinger of sustainable-energy driving, with the sporty Prelude the next cab off the petrol/ electric rank being launched next year before coming Down Under in 2026.
Something to look forward to.
RATINGS
■ Looks: 8/10
■ Performance: 8/10
■ Safety: 6/10
■ Thirst: 5/10
■ Practicality: 7/10
■ Comfort: 6/10
■ Tech: 7/10
■ Value: 6/10
Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
2024 - the year that was in sport
The Independent takes a look back at the stories that made sporting news in 2024.
JANUARY
It was a successful tournament for Barwon Region at the 68th Interregional Country Championships, returning from Benalla with the overall win.
Highton leg-spinner almost bowled his team to victory against Grovedale with a five-wicket haul. Ocean Grove all-rounder MickThorntonmadeasuperbcenturyagainst Armstrong Creek.
Dutch teen Rosita Reijnhout won the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race and became the youngest winner. Laurence Pithie won the men’s event.
FEBRUARY
Queenscliff cricketer Tony Hanafin played his 350th game.
Geelong Cricket Association won the Division 1 Melbourne Country Week cricket tournament defeating Ferntree Gully in the final at Junction Oval.
North Geelong won the GCA T20 competition defeating Grovedale in the final withTomWebsterearningplayerofthematch honours with three wickets.
Point Lonsdale’s Bea Conroy earned a Bell’s Beach Classic Longboard wildcard at the Victorian Longboard Titles.
MARCH
Ocean Grove won the Midweek Division 1 bowlspremiership,survivingalatesurgefrom a gallant Torquay.
Barwon Heads won the Under 17 Division 1 junior cricket flag with a win against North Geelong.
Highton won the Geelong Bowls Region Premier Division premiership with a thrilling one-shot win against Ocean Grove.
North Geelong won its fifth consecutive Geelong Cricket Association premiership. BarwonHeadsdefeatedAngleseaintheBellarine Peninsula Cricket Association A1 Grade final withSamSchallertakingfivewickets.
APRIL
Grovedale won four Tennis Geelong Saturday Senior Pennant premierships.
Portarlington ended a 68-game losing streak, defeating Newcomb in the opening BellarineFootballLeagueroundoftheseason.
Anakie broke a 308-day drought when it defeated Werribee Centrals in the Geelong & District Football League.
Ocean Grove began its Bellarine Netball League premiership defence with a two-goal win against Torquay.
Max Holmes signed a four-year contract extension to stay with Geelong.
MAY
Geelong badminton player Mike Simpkins collected three gold medals and one silver at the Australian National Para Championships.
Geelong United was granted a licence to compete in the WNBL and will play home games at The Arena in North Geelong.
Ocean Grove joined bowls’ showpiece television and spectator event the Bowls Premier League. The club will play under the banner of Geelong Jets.
Geelong Falcon forward Will McLachlan was selected by Brisbane in the midseason AFL draft.
Corio stayed unbeaten in the Geelong & District Netball League.
JUNE
Geelong United announced its first signing with point guard Jaz Shelley joining the fledgling club.
St Joseph’s won the Big Freeze Geelong game against St Mary’s.
Geelong was taking a cautious approach to
Patrick Dangearfield’s hamstring injury.
One of Geelong’s inaugural AFLW players, Erin Hoare, announced her retirement.
Keely Froling, an Australian Opal, became Geelong United’s new signing.
Rising Geelong BMX star Cameron Gatt was named the Vic Sports Rebel Young Athlete of the Year.
JULY
All Australian forward Tyson Stengle signed a five-year contract extension with Geelong.
Star Lara forward Mitch Day’s season was over after breaking his thumb against St Albans.
Geelong livewire Lawson Humphries was named the AFL round 18 Rising Star.
Ocean Grove shocked a wasteful Geelong Amateur to record a 28-point win in an upset Bellarine Football League win.
AUGUST
Meghan McDonald was named Cats AFLW skipper for a fifth consecutive season.
Top Geelong badminton junior Sophie Ng claimedherfifthgoldmedalinasmanyJunior Classics tournaments.
St Albans broke through for its first win of the Geelong Football League campaign defeating Newtown & Chilwell by 10 points.
Dual sport superstar Monique Conti committed to Geelong United for the WNBL season.
Grovedale, Anglesea and Belmont Lions
won the women’s footy premierships.
Corio’s Molly Gribble and Matthew James won the netball and footy Geelong & District League best and fairests.
SEPTEMBER
OceanGrovewonitssecondstraightBellarine Netball League premiership again defeating an unbeaten Geelong Amateur in the decider.
Torquay defeated Anglesea in an all-Surf Coast footy grand final.
Thomson defeated Belmont Lions in the Geelong & District Football League grand final while East Geelong prevailed in the netball.
LeopoldmadeittwoinarowintheGeelong Football League defeating South Baron in the grand final in front of more than 10,000 fans at GMHBA Stadium.
Newtown & Chilwell won its eighth premiership in 10 seasons beating St Joseph’s in the Geelong Netball League decider.
OCTOBER
Lawson Humphries put pen to paper for another year at Geelong.
Geelong’s AFLW finals hopes were all but over after a loss to Richmond late in the season.
Master jockey Craig Williams won his sixth Geelong Cup on the back of Onesmoothoperator.
Sixteen local junior tennis players represented the Barwon region in Tennis
Victoria’sRegionalTeamEventinShepparton.
Geelong United was thrashed in its WNBL debut by Townsville.
NOVEMBER
Chris Pitfield racked up game number 350 for Collendina Cricket Club.
Geelong’s AFLW season officially came to an end with a loss to Adelaide in the final round.
Ocean Grove touring car ace Zac Soutar finished second in the TCR Australia Touring Car Series overall points standings.
Nina Morrison won her first Geelong Cats best and fairest from Aishling Moloney and Georgie Prespakis.
Geelong Falcon Lachie Jacques was drafted to Western Bulldogs with the 29th pick.
DECEMBER
Portarlington’s Aaron Toole made a blistering 203 not out from just 137 deliveries against Barrabool.
FormerDrysdaleHawkandGeelongFalcon Tess Craven played in North Melbourne’s AFLW premiership win against Brisbane. Wallington’s Marc Occhipinti donned the whites for his 350th game.
Armstrong Creek C2 Grade captain Tim Hester made 277 from just 192 deliveries. Newtown & Chilwell’s Sara Howley was draftedtoGWSwithpick4intheAFLWdraft while St Mary’s Rebecca Clottey headed to Hawthorn at pick 50.
Newtown & Chilwell were the Geelong Netball League premiers.
Highton won the Geelong Bowls Region Premier Division premiership.
Winners are grinners as Leopold celebrates the Geelong Football League premiership.
North Geelong completed the Geelong Cricket Association double, winning the Division 1 and T20 premierships.
Locals star in the pool
Local swimmers from Melbourne Swimming Club’s Geelong branch (MSC Geelong) were victorious following a five-day battle in the pool at the state’s premier swimming event.
The Mattioli Victorian Age Long Course Championships took place at Melbourne Sports & Aquatic centre last month.
MSC Geelong swimmers joined their MSC metro teammates on pool deck to deliver an outstanding whole-club performance which saw MSC lead the point score from day one. The hard-fought competition continued into the fifth day with MSC finally claiming victory and unseating Nunawading Swim Club from its long-held podium position.
MSC Geelong swimmers returned with 15 medals.
James Logan stepped up with a stellar performance across the board winning 10 individual medals in the multiclass events for swimmers with disability.
“I’m fortunate to have the support of the club and coaches,” he said.
“Training is hard work but fun when you’re surrounded by a great team.”
The 18-year-old athlete set a new Australian S15 record in the 400m freestyle and rounded out his state campaign being awarded Para Age Group Champion 15-18yrs. Logan now has his eyes firmly set on the 2025 Deaflympics in Tokyo.
The club and MSC Geelong branch continued their incredible run with further success at the Victorian Open Water
Championships in Geelong on 21 December. Eastern Beach became a picturesque backdropfortheeventwiththeMSCGeelong team winning a further 10 championship medals. Stand-out performances from Liam Walker, Billie O’Bree and Archie Greco winning gold in their respective events.
The local program is led by senior coach Lucky Weerakkody and provides opportunities for all levels and abilities.
“The results this week are testament to the success of our program and the Open Water Championships being on our doorstep gave our team the extra confidence they needed,” he said. “We’re thankful to City of Greater Geelong and Geelong College for the lane space in which we train.”
Asher, Fawcett make it back to back
Seb Asher and Amy Fawcett took out the Rip to River Classic 10km run in warm conditions on Saturday January 4.
The run, from Point Lonsdale to Ocean Grove, began before the day really heated up, but it was still warm enough to be a test for all participants.
Former Ocean Grove Surf Lifesaving Club member Asher crossed the line in 33:12 minutes while Fawcett won with a time of 36:30. Both Asher and Fawcett won the previousRiptoRiverClassiconDecember30, 2023.
Eight-time winner Nick Wightman was runner-up in the men’s race with Brandon Muscat filling out the placegetters. Wightman’s son Jack won the Ripper Nipper Under 7 race.
LouiseWoodwasrunner-upinthewomen’s event with a time of 40:18 with Danni Rogan (40:46) third.
Morethan1000participantsparticipatedin this year’s Rip to River.
Glenn McMillan (16:47) won the men’s 5km
run and Anna Kasapis (19:10) was the first woman to cross the finish line.
Natalie Sabbadini (1:12:29) was first in the 10km walk.
Maria Kasapis (5:17) was the first Nipper to cross the line with 147 Nippers participating.
Night finals proceed on a scorcher
LOCAL TENNIS
Donna Schoenmaekers
It was touch and go whether Monday’s Women’s night final would go ahead with the temperature reaching 40 degrees through the day, however, by start time the conditions had improved and play was able to commence on time.
In Section 1, minor premiers Grape Therapy faced Rust-eze, and for the first time in their four meetings, both teams were their standard line up.
Therapy had taken the honours in all three home and away matches, but every match had been a battle, with Rust-eze a little unlucky in round four only going down by four games.
The first set saw Therapy’s Jo Puckett and FionaWalkerbattleitoutwithMelMcClelland and Andrea Eccleston in a set punctuated with big forehands from McClelland, crisp volleys from Walker, amazing angles from Eccleston and great reading of the play from Puckett. Rallies were plentiful and games were long and the8-1wintoGrapeTherapybeliedthequality of the set.
The second set was a lot closer on the scoreboard than the first with Di Williams and Donna Schoenmaekers taking on Rust-eze’s Denise Airey and Narelle Thompson. The set went game for game with powerful serving fromThompson,strongreturningbyWilliams, greatplacementbyAireyandcrosscourtsetups from Schoenmaekers. At five-all Rust-eze got the break and from there held serve to take the match 8-6.
With the match tied at a set all, match ups were important going into the remaining two sets. Walker and Schoenmaekers matched
it early with Eccleston and Thompson, but their prowess as a pair showed through with Rust-eze taking the fourth set 8-3. It was left to Puckett and Williams and McClelland and Airey to determine the winner and at 5-4 with a break to Grape Therapy at the completion of the fourth set, the match was poised to be a thriller.
Puckett and McClelland continued with their lengthy rallies, but Therapy eventually got over the line 8-5, leaving the teams level at two sets all, but Therapy had the three-game advantage.
Section 2 proved a little more one sided with Western Heights facing Moolap Monarch’s. Monarch’s were hoping to match Two Phones Chol and Zing Kings wins in last Thursday’s Triples finals while the Warriors were looking for their first premiership after finishing
Offshore fishing going beserk
ON THE BITE
Peri Stavropoulos
The offshore fishing as of late has been nothing short of sensational over the past week or so with pelagics on the chew.
Between Barwon Heads bluff and the Rip has offered some sensational fishing options for kingfish, southern bluefin tuna and mako sharks.
Anglers chasing kingfish have found their best success fishing in closer from 20 metres and under whilst slow trolling. Livebaits, squid strips and rigged garfish all make great baits to troll around.
The Rip has also been fishing sensationallyandprobablythestandout location for kings at the moment. The only struggle is anglers are struggling to catch live bait. A great tactic and by far the most effective way is to sound around with a sabiki rig ready to drop and the second a school is sounded up drop a bait right on their head and use the boat to hold on top of them.
Wrecks are a great area to spend time sounding. Bluefin tuna have been holding a little deeper than the kingfish, more so from 35 metres to 50 metres. Quite often the schools of fish can be sighted on the surface just cruising around, opening an opportunity to cast topwater lures suchaspoppersandstickbaitsatthem.
The fish are usually very timid when behaving like this so a slow, stealth approach is key. Try to avoid going in hard or driving through the school as this will increase your chances hugely. When they can’t be sighted, trolling hasbeenworkingverywellwithdivers and skirted lures getting plenty of bites.
Corio Bay inner harbour has offered some great family fishing options for the school holidays and when the weather is a bit wild. Along the edge of the channel near Alcoa pier has been holding a good mixture of species including pinky snapper, whiting and flathead. Soft plastics work great and of course bait is always a great tactic to secure a feed.
The outer harbour and around the Bellarine Peninsula has been producing some good reports on King George whiting and calamari. Artificial jigs in bright and funky colours have been a standout for the calamari in size 3.0 and 3.5 jigs working best. When fishing further back into the bay it does pay to even run some size 2.5 jigs.
runner-up three times.
Jenny Hurst and Joanna Harriott kicked off against Kirsty Matthews and Sheree Holdsworth in the first with a strong 8-1 win for the Warriors while Carmel Addlem and Debra Brackley also did well winning 8-2 against Monica Cavarson and Belinda Atkins.
With the team in the box seat, spirits were high, and Hurst and Addlem continued the strong form winning 8-1 while Holdsworth and Atkins battled to take the fourth set 8-6. Fourth time was the charm for the Warriors winning 3-1.
After a fantastic night of tennis, the teams relaxed with a drink after the match with food supplied by the players, with a big thanks to Highton’s Leanne Shelton for the effort she put in for the night and across the season
The whiting have been fishing well on the stronger tides and if you can time that at the end or start of the day your chances will increase. Squid strips and pipis make for the best baits withsomechoppeduppilchardsinthe pot just off the bottom makes for great burley to get them in and hold them at the back of the boat.
On the Bite columnist Peri Stavropoulos with a kingfish. (supplied)
Grape Therapy: Fiona Walker, Jo Puckett, Di Williams, Donna Schoenmaekers.
Amy Fawcett won her second consecutive Rip to River. 451842_12
Seb Asher won the 10km race for men. (pictures: Ivan Kemp) 451842_13
Two Blues hold sway at the top
Justin Flynn takes a look at the Geelong Cricket Association Division 1 state of play at the halfway mark of the season.
Ladder
■ Newtown & Chilwell 40.62
■ North Geelong 38.18
■ Grovedale 31.68
■ Highton 29.34
■ St Peters 28.82
■ East Belmont 20.11
■ St Joseph’s 15.52
■ South Barwon 13.23
Newtown & Chilwell
Nothing typifies ‘team effort’ more than the TwoBlues’seasonsofar.Withnobodyinthetop 10 for runs and Lachie Sperling just scraping in the top 10 for wickets (coincidentally he is the highest run scorer with 252), it’s been a collectiveteamperformancesofar.SamAllen, Noah Guida and Dylan Hodge have chipped in with the ball. Only just behind Sperling is Hodge (231 runs), Ronnie McKenna (210) and Paddy McKenna (189).
North Geelong
Another season, another North Geelong side capableofgoingalltheway.LeftyNedCooper is as hungry for runs as ever with 394 and fellow southpaw Bailey Sykes is relishing a changeofclubwith17poleswithhisorthodox spinners. Tom Mathieson (another lefty, 16 wickets) and tall spinner (yep, you guessed it, another left-armer, 13 wickets) have ensured thePieswillagainbethereatthebusinessend.
Grovedale
The Tigers have had a superb first half of the season with Rohan Smith and Jack Wrigglesworth taking 17 and 16 wickets respectively.JordanMoranisthetoprungetter with 259. Grovedale is not unlike Newtown & Chilwell in that the side has gotten here with a
genuine all round team performance.
Highton
With Greg Willows (369 at 46.13) again making runs, teams will have to find a way to get the mega-talented Englishman out. Brady Somers (277) and Zac Wills (268) have both offered a lot as well. Bowling wise it’s been young leggie Fionn Neeson, who is having a breakout season with 19 impressive wicketsthe most in the comp.
St Peters
The Saints haven’t just been happy with promotion, they are only just outside the top four. Will Ford leads the comp for runs with 406 of them with brother Luke not far behind on 375. James Stokes and Josh Sorgiavanni
each have 16 wickets and a finals appearance is definitely on the cards for the boys from Walker Oval.
East Belmont
Write this team off at your peril. East Belmont may be a little different in make-up this season, but is as dangerous as ever. Shane McNamara is having another golden summer with 404 runs and James Lidgett is only seven behind and with an average of nearly 80. The team probably needs a bigger effort with the ball after the break to trouble the top few sides. Matt Miller and James McMahon have 23 wickets between them and have been good.
St Joseph’s The Joeys need some wins early at the
resumption, but their bowlers have been exceptional. Cameron Port (13), Tim Smith (13) and Ryan Simmonds (12) can’t have done much more than what they already have. Andrew Casey, with 307 runs, has led the way with the bat, but St Joseph’s need runs from others if they are to play finals.
South Barwon
Sam Ellis (369 runs) and Nick Butters (294) have been exceptional for the Swans. Ellis is also the leading wicket taker with just eight. The team needs left-arm quick Cam Egan to recover from a back injury to inject some fire into his team’s quest for a finals berth, or even to avoid relegation.
Anglesea still favourites in Bellarine cricket
It’s the halfway mark of the Bellarine Peninsula Cricket Association season and as the comp resumes in 2025, Justin Flynn takes a look at what the rest of the season could look like.
Ladder Club points percentage
■ Anglesea 36 2.04
■ Barwon Heads 36 1.30
■ Armstrong Creek 27 0.99
■ Barrabool 24 1.34
■ Jan Juc 24 1.06
■ Drysdale 15 0.80
■ Ocean Grove 15 0.52
■ Queenscliff 9 0.75
Anglesea
This amazing club just keeps on setting standards. The Seas will again feature in another finals series and will likely finish top two and earn a home semi. Tyron Norman keeps getting better and has 372 runs while Mick Thornton has 195 and Simon Umbers 188. Bowling-wise, Anglesea has several contributors. Thornton and spinner Tom Beasley have 11 wickets each.
X-factor: Mick Thornton is a genuine all-rounder and has offered this side genuine star power. Geelong Grammar speedster Jack Robinson could well give some batters a few sleepless nights as well.
Barwon Heads
The Seagulls lost a few stars from their 2023-24 premiership side, but haven’t suffered too much as a result. Dan Donaldson has 15 wickets, but the skipper has many options to call upon. Teen spinner Angus Mackie announced himself with four wickets just before the break and 48-year-old debutante
Damian Clarke looks to have a permanent role as a stop-gap seamer. Max Melzer (351 runs) is in career best form.
X-factor: 17-year-old left-hander Angus Ford is on the cusp of a breakout innings.
Armstrong Creek
Clay Mulgrew has cemented his status as the comp’s best batter with 500 runs already. If you don’t get this bloke early, then look out. The Titans play a patience game with the ball, preferringtostranglesidesover75oversrather than ambushing them early. Jack Maclean has 10 wickets and brother Daniel has eight.
X-factor: Chris Marsiglio has had an interrupted season, but if the classy opener can string some games together, he is the perfect partner to stride out with Mulgrew at the beginning of each innings.
Barrabool
It’s hard to see the Bulls missing finals from here. With two tough ones against Armstrong
Creek to come, Barrabool also has dual games against the bottom two sides. Michael Kelson has 338 runs and James Fisher leads the comp with 18 wickets.
X-factor: Michael Kelson has star power and can go big, which could be important in a final.
Jan Juc
Probablythemostdifficultsidetogetareading on. The Sharks have genuine run-making power in Peter Buszard and Nick Hyden and have some of the best bowling in the comp through the consistent Jordy Graham.
X-factor: Mark Zahra offers plenty with his batting and his spin bowling. If Nicky Smith can get on the park, his pace bowling is the perfect finals product - if the Sharks make it.
Drysdale
There is heaps of time for Drysdale to turn it around, but it wouldn’t be happy so far. Blake Dobbin has 16 wickets so far and you know
he will give everything. The Hawks need runs, though.CharlieClodeiscapableofdelivering.
X-factor: Nick Hallam just needs to wipe the slate clean and start again. Capable of mass runs, don’t discount the classy right-handed from making a big contribution.
Ocean Grove
The only team to have beaten Anglesea, but also capable of some bad losses, the Grubbers are starting to get their act together. They probably should have beaten Barwon Heads just before the break. Spinner Alex Mann has 10 wickets and Zac Jones has 247 runs. Finals may be a bridge too far, but survival in the top flight is attainable.
X-factor: English import Zac Jones is a class batter, but has struggled with the ball, but is only one big haul away from ripping a top order apart.
Queenscliff
Way better than their ladder position suggests, Queenscliff will be pushing to avoid relegation. Hayden Illingworth has made 329 runs and can go big in the second half of the season. The Coutas need more with the ball although veteran Tony Hanafin and Luke Adam have nine wickets each.
X-factor: You get the feeling that Frank Mileto is just warming up and could make a huge impact with the willow after the break.
Can Daniel Donaldson lead Barwon Heads to consecutive premierships?
Clay Mulgrew is the competition’s leading run scorer.
Ned Cooper is among the runs again for North Geelong.
Dylan Hodge is leading the way at Newtown & Chilwell.
Shane McNamara has scored 404 runs for East Belmont.
