Vic Open tees off
Golfers of all abilities have taken over the 13th Beach Golf Links as the Vic Open returns for its 12th year.
The major golfing event kicked off with the all-abilities Golf Clinic organised by genU and Golf Australia on Wednesday, February 5, from 11am to 1pm, with the main tournaments taking place from Thursday, February 6, to Sunday, February 9.
Women and men will battle it out on 13th Beach’s Beach and Creek courses for equal shares of a total $400,000 in prize money across both fields.
Geoff from genU is pictured taking a shot during the all-abilities event, turn to page 24 for more photos from the Golf Clinic.
Storm winds unleash fury
By Jena Carr
Geelong erupted into chaos overnight on Sunday as lightning, wind, rain, and hail shook the region, leaving properties damaged and trees uprooted.
Lightning cracked across the skies for over three hours on Sunday evening, followed by heavy rain and wild winds across Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula and Surf Coast.
Geelong and Lara were hit particularly hard with flash flooding, with downed trees causing property damage and hail stones of 2cm to 4cm, according to the Bureau of Meteorology. Some 63mm of rain was recorded at Lara, 52mm at Avalon Airport, 48mm at Clunes and 47mm at Geelong.
An SES spokesperson said VICSES Barwon South West volunteers were called to almost 500 requests for assistance (RFAs) between 10am on Sunday, February 2, and 10am on Monday, February 3.
at around 1pm on Monday.
“We lost a few things like couches, chairs, tables, and carpets, so it’s just a matter of assessing everything,” she said.
“We lost about 90 per cent of our roofing, and that’s probably a 40-metre span by 10 to 15 metres,sowehavelostafairamountofroofing.
“There’safootpathrightnexttoourbuilding, so we wanted to try and clear some of the roofing from there because that gets used a lot throughout the day by walkers and bike riders.
“Wewerealertedtothedamageatabout7pm on Sunday after a member of the public was walkingpast(theclub)andgotcaughtupinthe storm. She was seeking shelter in our veranda area when the roof came off.”
Damage reports included a tree blown over ontoshopawningsoutsidetheLittlePakington complex along Pakington Street and power lost to traffic lights at the Waiora Avenue and Jasmine Street intersection along Ballarat Road in Geelong West.
“(Calls were) largely relating to trees down (222), building damage (169) and flood (83),” they said. “Local volunteers have cleared almost 300 of these RFAs during this period, and volunteer crews are still out responding aided by other VICSES and CFA crews.”
Target Rifle Geelong was one of many buildings damaged across the region, with winds blowing off sheets of the club’s corrugated iron roof over the footpath next to the building.
Secretary and treasurer Bianca Waldron said the City of Greater Geelong council shut down the building and some of the surrounding area
The storm also led to power network damage in Geelong, with close to 2411 Powercor customers waiting for power to be restored on Monday.
Powercor also deployed a Mobile Emergency Response Vehicle (MERV) to Geelong on Monday to provide on-ground advice to community members impacted by outages.
- with AAP
Left: A tree fell over onto shop awnings outside the Little Pakington complex along Pakington Street during Sunday’s storm. (Jena Carr) Right: Winds blew the roof off Target Rifle Geelong’s building. (Target Rifle Geelong)
Supportingyou andyourfamily
Expanding Paid Parental Leave to 26 weeks with super payments included.
The Albanese Labor Government is committed to delivering more support for families.
ToreadmoreabouthowIcansupportyou, pleasescantheQRCodeorcontactmyoffice.
Strengthening Medicare
The Albanese Labor Government is working to improve our health system.
We are strengthening Medicare, the heart of universal healthcare, easing cost of living pressures with cheaper medicines, and establishing Urgent Care Clinics across the nationincluding one in Belmont.
Workshops to help empower
By Jena Carr
Women’s Empowerment Workshops are coming to Geelong to create a safe space for women and to provide opportunities for connections.
Vines Community Centre will host the workshops every Tuesday from February 11 to March 25 from 10am to 1pm, with participants taking part in a new activity each session.
Action on Disability within Ethnic Communities capacity building officer Rachel Westhorpe said the sessions were open to women from culturally diverse backgrounds, carers, and females living with a disability or dealing with mental health.
“Lots of our participants do feel quite isolated in their community, so if we can get some friendships and relationships going, that would be incredible,” she said.
“It’s about empowering attendees with the confidence to self-advocate and share learnings with their families and communities for broader benefit.
“We have designed this workshop around the aim of empowering women. We have women presenters and facilitators to empower
participants with knowledge and skills.
“The more we educate ourselves and give ourselves the confidence to self-advocate, the morewecanhelpourselveswhenproblemsand things arise. Knowledge is power.
“It’s also empowering participants by creating greater awareness and understanding of available resources and support services they have in their area while combating social isolation.”
Sessions will include cooking, arts and crafts, free legal support, self-defence, wellness and wellbeing, and more.
Ms Westhorpe said the workshops would touch on topics like mental illness and family illness and that anyone interested in participating should email an expression of interest to rachelw@adec.org.au
Bringing hope to many
When Gemma Sisia set out on her mission to open a free school for disadvantaged children in Tanzania more than 25 years ago she had no understanding of the impact she would have on thousands of families.
Neither did she comprehend the myriad challenges she would face along the way nor the levels of support she would receive as she began to establish the School of St Jude.
“I was young; when you’re under 25 it’s a wonderful period in your life where you think you’re infallible and you know it all, but in actual fact you have no idea,” Mrs Sisia laughed.
“People thought I was crazy, and I probably was, but that’s the blissful ignorance of youth… we just started small and kept putting one foot in front of the other, just kept going forward.”
More than 20 years after opening its doors
to just three children, St Jude’s now delivers free education to 1800 students over three campuses and supports 400 former students with their tertiary education.
St Jude’s alumnus John Stanley will join Mrs Sisia this month in Ocean Grove at a free special event organised by the Rotary Club of Ocean Grove.
Mrs Sisia will relate the story of the school and her visions for its future, while Mr Stanley will share the impact St Jude’s has had on his life and future prospects.
Gemma Sisia and John Stanley will be at Ocean Grove Bowls Club between 6pm and 8pm on Sunday, February 23. The event is free and booking is not required. Visit www. rotaryoceangrove.org.au/breaking-news for more information.
Matt Hewson
School of St Jude founder Gemma Sisia and alumnus John Stanley will speak in Ocean Grove at a special Rotary event.
Sunset Run celebrates a decade
By Matt Hewson
It’s been 10 years since Ocean Grove residents Dion and Liberty Milne decided to take their favourite local running trail and turn it into a public event, the Flying Brick Sunset Run.
There have been challenges along the waya global pandemic, to name just one - but Mr Milne said it had been “quite humbling” to see it grow from the two of them to the expected field of nearly 2000 runners taking part this Saturday, February 8.
“Tothink,whenwepitchedtheideatoFlying Brick 10 years ago we were talking about 350 people, and (this year) we’ll probably max out at 1800 registrations,” he said.
‘‘ Whether they’re running or just coming down to watch ... to us it’s really special ’’ - Dion Milne
“It’s been a slow burn; we’ve kept control of our numbers, knowing it was more popular than what we were selling.
“This year (we’re) under Lindsay Sharp’s guidance, she said why don’t you see how big it can get? So here we are, 450 people more than the record.
“It’s only Liberty and I doing the whole
thing, and we just get volunteers on the Friday night and the Saturday to help actually pull it all together. I’m really proud of what we’ve created.”
The event features a 21km half-marathon from Portarlington to St Leonards and back, a 10km run from St Leonards to Portarlington and the 4km Bully Buster, which raises funds and awareness to benefit kids’ mental health, particularly through exercise.
While the Sunset Run is not a charity, Mr Milne said the Bully Buster was a “good opportunity” to give back to the community.
“I think there are 102 kids running for free and then another 90 running for $10, and we donate that… registration to Bellarine
Paramedic takes flight on 25 years
A Geelong paramedic is celebrating 25 years of making a difference in people’s lives throughout the Barwon South West region.
Ambulance Victoria Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance (MICA) paramedic and acting Barwon South West area manager Michael Wells has worked as a paramedic on the road and in the sky.
Mr Wells said when he started MICA, “Advanced Life Support paramedics had only just been introduced”. He then became a MICA flight paramedic in 2005.
“It was a very steep learning curve but luckily, I had some great leaders and mentors around me who helped me gain confidence,” he said.
“Within a short period of time, I went from only being able to administer a few medications to being able to perform advanced treatments.
“I always liked the idea of the Helicopter Emergency Medical Service and the more time I spent on the road, the more it became attractive to me. When I made the switch, I was only 30 years old.”
Mr Wells said he had many memories of his dad as a paramedic and loved every aspect of his job, with his daughter also pursuing a paramedicine career.
“I was lucky enough to work with my dad before he retired, and I hope to work with my daughter before I retire,” he said.
“We’re in a very privileged position to help people in their time of need. They’ve called because they don’t know what else to do. We’re there to help them and provide that link in the healthcare system.
“The jobs we go to allow us to see the best and worst the world has to offer, but knowing we’ve helped someone when they needed it most makes everything bearable.”
Community Health,” he said.
“I think after this year we’ll have raised probably $39,000 in seven, eight years, and we’re about to hit over 1000 kids having run it to promote health.
MrMilnethankedtheBellarineandGeelong community for its continued support for the event.
“Whether they’re running or just coming down to watch, or they’re a shop owner or local restaurantthatopenstheirdoorsandwelcomes our runners, to us it’s really special,” he said.
“We live in Ocean Grove, so we are Bellarine people, and we really do try to keep everything local and give the community something to remember.”
Funds to help children see
The state government’s boost to the Glasses for Kids program will see more Geelong families receive help for their children’s vision through testing at school and free glasses.
The $6.8 million injection of funds will triple the capacity of the program according to Minister for Education Ben Carroll, who made the announcement last week.
Wangala Primary School in Belmont will receive vision tests and glasses in March, while Tate Street Primary in East Geelong and Moolap Primary School will get the same in May.
Prep to Year 3 students will have access to free onsite vision screening and testing, as well as free glasses as needed.
The local schools are three of 473 schools Victoria-wide who will join the program after the funding increase, with an extra 74,000 students potentially taking advantage of the chance to address poor vision.
TheGlassesforKidsprogram,which began rolling out in 2015, targets schools identified as having medium to high levels of disadvantage based on their Student Family Occupation and Education Index.
Member for Geelong Christine Couzens said in addition to directly benefiting children, the expanded program would save Geelong families money and time.
“It’s great that students in Geelong will have the ability (to) take part in this program, helping them to thrive in their learning and in life,” Ms Couzens said.
Nominate a local legend of the Surf Coast for recognition
Surf Coast Shire Council is looking for 2025’s Local Legends to recognise and celebrate the unsung heroes making a positive difference in the community.
Award nominations opened on February 1, with awards available across four categories. Local Legends will be named, and nominees celebrated, during National Volunteer Week in May.
Councillor Paul Barker said people of all ages and walks of life can be nominated for the awards and encouraged people to get nominations by March 15.
“Each of the four awards categories aim to provide a fitting tribute to each of our nominated Local Legends,” he said.
“Their contributions are significant, and our Local Legends program seeks to celebrate them in a fitting way.
“Local legends contribute around us every day in countless, unrecognised and often selfless ways, helping our community in a variety of ways.
“Help us acknowledge and celebrate a community contributor you know by nominating them as a Local Legend.”
Award categories for individuals included Community Commitment, for people dedicated and passionate about the community, and Community Impact, for people whose community contributions have made a remarkable difference.
Categories for groups featured Community Inclusion to celebrate diversity and inclusion in community programs and Volunteer Excellence for groups showcasing overall excellence for community contributions.
Last year, Local Legend recipients were Claire Osborn for forming the Surf Coast
Little Athletics Club, Hutch Hussein for helping people feel included, and Sue Saw for supporting children through their learning.
Matt Benson was also recognised for his volunteer work with the charity Ocean Mind, alongside Jules Haddock for helping manage mental health through art.
Visit surfcoast.vic.gov.au/LocalLegends for more information, find category details, and make nominations. People can also phone 5261 0600 or visit council’s civic building at 1 Merrijig Drive, Torquay.
MICA paramedic and acting Barwon South West area manager Michael Wells with Ambulance Victoria helicopter. (Supplied)
Easing financial worry
Geelong residents facing rental or mortgage stress will have more access to counselling services thanks to the state government.
Minister for Consumer Affairs Nick Staikos visited Meli Community in Geelong to announce that 16 organisations across the state would share $15 million in funding over three years.
Mr Staikos said the funding would help expand and support services offered to thousands of Victorians experiencing financial hardship due to mortgage or rental stress.
“We’re investing in our financial counselling services and workforce so organisations can offer free help to thousands more Victorians,” he said. “As Victorian families continue to face cost of living pressures our financial counselling services are there to help people to get their financial situation back on track.”
New program for young writers to hone their craft
A local author and youth worker has launched a new not-for-profit program to help young and disadvantaged writers in the Geelong and Bellarine area.
Zeb Granger, who has written and produced more than a dozen books and plays, created the free mentoring program Next Draft to provide coaching and support to writers aged 13 to 21.
Mr Granger said he wanted to help young people in Barwon have the same opportunity.
“Working in the youth work space for the past few years, it regularly becomes clear how many creative young people, particularly in these regional communities, feel discouraged or lack the confidence and opportunities to pursue their creative dreams,” he said.
Member for Geelong Christine Couzens said the grants would support primary producers and small businesses in Western and Northern Victoria.
“This funding will have real benefits to those doing it tough in Geelong and it will give more people professional financial support when they need it close to home,” she said.
“Thisisoneofasuiteofmeasurestoeasecost of living pressures, building on other policies such as capping fuel price increases, delivering free kinder, and the $400 school saving bonus.”
The Consumer Action Law Centre will also receive a funding boost to deliver specialist worker support services and give frontline workers access to advice and training to provide high-quality services.
Contact the National Debt Helpline at ndh. org.au or 1800 007 007 to find the closest financial counselling provider.
The funding will bring the number of frontline service support positions across the state to 37 to help people get their finances back on track through methods like working out payment plans.
“I’ve often found that by tapping into those skills and passions within my work, we see mental health improve, we see their confidence and social skills lift. Suddenly, they have a whole new way of communicating and interacting with the world through their stories or poetry.”
Mr Granger, who released his latest book Ogres, Elves & Insufferable Dad Jokes this week, said his own mental health journey had reinforced his belief in the importance of stories.
“When I first became a father in 2019, I massively struggled with my mental health,” he said.
“Struggling and seeking stories, I quickly noticed the lack of fantasy stories that have relatable men that capture who we are now in the 21st century, and more
Local author Zeb Granger. (Supplied)
specifically fathers, who prioritise being a good dad over slaying the beast. That’s what inspired this story and I’m excited to share it with the world at last.”
Visit nextdraft.com.au for more information on the program.
To all those Unsinkable Guys out there –
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.
Minister for Consumer Affairs Nick Staikos, left, State Member for Geelong Christine Couzens, Meli CEO Grant Boyd and Meli manager of therapeutic services Betty Chapelle. (Supplied)
Geelong mourns Troy Selwood
By Anna Harrington, AAP
Former Brisbane Lions midfielder and Geelong assistantcoachTroySelwoodhasdied,aged40.
A member of the AFL’s famous Selwood family, the identical twin of West Coast premiership player Adam and brother of Geelong champion Joel and former Eagles and Cats midfielder Scott died on Tuesday.
Troy Selwood played 75 games for Brisbane between2005and2010afterbeingdraftedwith pick No.19 in the 2002 draft, then captained Geelong’s VFL team to the 2012 premiership, before retiring in 2013.
He worked in Geelong’s AFL football department in various roles between late 2010 and 2021, most notably as talent identification manager, before a brief stint at Collingwood.
Selwood most recently worked as head of football and sports performance at Geelong Grammar.
“We are heart broken by the loss of our son, brother and father, Troy this morning. We will miss Troy more than words can express,“ the Selwood family said in a statement via the AFL on Tuesday.
“Troy was a much loved and loving member of our family. Over the course of his life, Troy
Local designers on show
Geelong will get its first look at the new works of its up and coming fashion designers this month when fashion show Creative Coast II comes to Novotel Geelong.
The event will feature over 10 Geelong, Bellarine and Surf Coast fashion brands and designers, supported by a small army of volunteer models, photographers and hair and makeup artists.
Revival Runway creative director Niki Bruce said the non-profit organisation focused on creating opportunities for small, emerging independent fashion brands and designers.
“Back in 2019 Revival Runway founder Sofie Carfi, who has a background in business, had a lot of friends in the fashion industry, women running small businesses,” she said.
“She saw they were having a hard time economically, even before COVID. Sofie’s idea was to put something on that would help all of these brands, that would just be fun to do
and would support locals, support women’s businesses, support small businesses.
“The second component of Revival is about helping young fashion creatives. We try to give them a real-life experience, working with money, working with people, where they’re given the responsibility.”
Kate Sylvester is a local conceptual fashion designer with a background in fine arts and textiles.
Ms Sylvester said Revival Runway had been “so supportive” in the lead-up to Creative Coast, her first fashion show.
“Revival have been amazing; everything is catered for, the marketing is all being done. All I’vehadtodoisfocusonthecreating,”shesaid.
“I think it’s such an awesome, awesome program.”
Creative Coast II is at Novotel Geelong on Sunday, February 23. Visit trybooking.com/ events/landing/1336952 for tickets.
SUMMER SIZZLER CASHBACK
brought joy and light to all who knew him.
“He was a loving son of Maree and Bryce, a supportive and caring brother to Adam, Joel and Scott, and a doting father of beautiful children Tom and Sadie.
“WewillmissTroy’sbravery,hishumour,his deep thinking, his love and compassion. Troy had a generosity of spirit, cared deeply about people and strove to make the lives of others better.
“We are grateful to all those that have supported Troy throughout his life, and we know that his many friends, teammates and colleagues will miss him greatly.
“Troy achieved many great things in his life. From his time as a young man and student, to his journey as an AFL player, to working in recruiting young players to help live their AFL dreams to his latest passion and adventure at Geelong Grammar School, Troy was able to influence and touch the lives of so many people.
“We know many people will reach out and sharetheirstoriesofTroy,andwethankyoufor your love and support.
“The family asks for privacy and respect during this time as we process our devastating loss.”
Rotary works to prevent violence
The Bellarine community is working together to help prevent family violence or abuse through initiatives across the region.
Last year, Bellarine North Rotary Club raised funds, distributed posters to help people recognise signs of family and domestic violence and partnered with charities to offer support.
Treasurer and Say No to Family and Domestic Violence group representative Leila Rielly said it was “extremely important” to hold initiatives that brought awareness to family and domestic violence.
“It’s about putting awareness out there that
it’s not just abuse, it’s lots of different things that are classed as domestic violence,” she said.
“The more we can get it out there, the more people hear about it; hopefully, if we can prevent one death, that’s a good outcome.
“We didn’t want to reinvent the wheel and start up something new when other clubs or associationsintheareaweredoingsomething, so we tried to work with them.”
Bellarine North Rotary Club recently called for toiletries to support women and children affected by family and domestic violence, which were donated to the Salvation Army and Vinnies.
Ms Rielly said the club’s efforts were part of a broader commitment to create a safer and more supportive community.
Rotary International’s February theme is Peacebuilding and Conflict Prevention, with clubs working to help people where needed. Family violence incidents in Greater Geelong recorded by Victoria Police had increased by 220 cases to 5085 during the 2023/24 financial year, according to the Crime Statistics Agency.
Jena Carr
Funeral Planning
Bellarine North Rotary Club members Andrew and Alex Jeffrey, treasurer Leila Rielly and president Ken Withers. (Ivan Kemp) 456829_04
Cyclists pedal towards glory
World-class cycling kicked off in Geelong last week with the tenth Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race running from January 29 to February 2. Independent photographer Ivan Kemp went along on Saturday, February 1, to catch the women’s race.
Left: Alison Eldridge and Cameron Gosling after finishing the 50K ride. Right: The race begins. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 454872
Left: Freya and James Davis after finishing the 50K ride. Centre: Karlijn Swinkels (left, 2nd in race) with other UAE team members staying cool before the start of the race. Right: The start of the race.
Riders start to line-up before the start of the race.
The national anthem with riders ready for the start.
Left: Women’s race winner, Ally Wollaston being interviewed before the race (top); The national anthem. Centre: The start of the race. Right: Ally Wollaston with the winning FDJ Suez team.
MY GEELONG
Geelong’s Jen McPherson is a wheelchair boccia (where each player or team takes turns bowling their ball towards a target ball) participant at Geelong West Neighborhood House. She speaks with Jena Carr about what she loves about living in Geelong.
Can you tell me a bit about yourself?
I am a middle-aged woman who has lived in Geelong since 2009.
I go to a local singing and art group, which I love very much, and I play wheelchair boccia at the local community centre; I started a boccia group. I also love Geelong Cats and go to the footy.
Can you tell me about wheelchair boccia and what you like about it?
Boccia is different to bocce. Boccia is a disabled-orientated sport, and it’s a Paralympic sport. You’ve got a white ball and blue and red balls. It’s played indoors, and different grades match your ability.
This is a sport that I can actually do and play. They have racing, tennis and basketball and are too fast for me.
It’s specifically designed for people with cerebralpalsy,acquiredbraininjuryandthings like that. You can kick the ball with your foot, throw it, and use a stick to roll it down a ramp. It’s really good fun, and it helped me find a whole new bunch of friends and a new tribe when I went to Canberra.
I understand you’re trying to form a group here in Geelong, is that right?
Yes, it will run on a Friday from noon for about an hour and 45 minutes. I’d love more people to come along and have fun.
At the moment, it’s just me. So, people can contact the Geelong West Neighborhood House to express interest in joining.
What do you like most about where you live? I can go bushwalking in my chair and go to the beach.
Everything’s close together, and Geelong’s got everything to offer.
The public transport is great down here, and it’s easy to get around with a disability.
What would you say is your favourite place to
go and spend time?
I love going down to Torquay on the beach. They’ve got mats down there, so I can get onto the sand, and I like that.
Is there anything that you would change
about where you live?
I’m finding it very hard to get a beach wheelchair. I know the Geelong council does have them, but I have no idea where they are. Knowing where you can get them would be great because I would have access to the water.
(Jena Carr) 458009_01
CITYNEWS
WE’RE READY TO WELCOME LOCAL YOUTH AT THE NEST
Come along to our newly opened Nest Youth Hub – a fun, welcoming, and inclusive space for young people aged 12-25 to hang out, enjoy meals, access programs, and connect with support services.
Located inside the Busport building on the corner of Gheringhap Street and Transit Place, Geelong, the Hub is part of a two-year pilot program supported by funding from the Victorian Government.
Among other features The Nest includes an open plan area for socialising and group activities, accessible bathrooms, a multipurpose room suitable for a range of creative uses such as music and art, and a kitchen capable of hosting cooking classes.
From Monday 10 February, The Nest will be open Monday to Friday from 3.30pm until 6.00pm (excluding public holidays). Drop in programs will be available on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
We
During drop in times, you can:
• Grab a meal and chill out with your mates.
• Access information and referrals to support services.
• Play a game of pool, table tennis or video games.
• Access a computer, a printer, charging stations and free Wi-Fi.
• Check out the local jobs board and community noticeboard. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, the Hub will be running closed group activities.
The Hub is staffed by members of our Youth Development team, and they will be wearing a lanyard and name tag so you can easily find them.
For more information, scan the QR code or visit geelong.link/ NestYouthHub2 and keep an eye on GeelongYouth socials for updates.
2024-25 rates reminder
If you’re paying your 2024-25 rates by making one annual payment, it is due Saturday 15 February 2025.
There are several arrangements for rate payment depending on your personal situation.
Payment options:
›direct debit
›BPay
›via our website geelong.link/Rates1 ›by phone 1300 858 058.
Credit card payments incur a payment processing fee of 0.25 per cent.
If you’re experiencing difficulty paying your rates, please contact us on 5272 5272 or email revenue@geelongcity.vic. gov.au so we can assist you.
For more information or to sign up to receive your rates notice by email, scan the QR code or visit geelong.link/ Rates2
Our recently-inducted City of Greater Geelong Youth Council comprises of 11 young people who represent the youth community of Greater Geelong.
Youth Council is an opportunity for young people from across our region to have a say in the decisions that affect their lives, represent the views of young people and develop new skills.
The Youth Council will present three reports to Council throughout the year, with the final report in December to provide a comprehensive summary of the year’s work, including the official advice to Council.
For more information, scan the QR code or visit geelong. link/YouthCouncil2
Free Detox Your Home event in February
You can safely dispose of unwanted household chemicals and cooking oil by booking your place today.
Saturday 15 February, 8.00am to 1.00pm:
Corio Operations Centre, 299 Anakie Road, Lovely Banks (opposite Leisuretime)
Bookings essential. This is a free event. Scan the QR code or visit geelong.link/ DetoxHome2 to book and see a full list of items being collected on the day.
4 Year Revenue and Rating Plan 2025-26 to 2028-29
We’re seeking your input into the 4 Year Revenue and Rating Plan 2025-26 to 2028-29.
We’re keen to understand how you think the rates revenue should be spread across the municipality to be most appropriate, equitable and affordable for different rate groups. Your feedback is important to us, please take our online survey.
To have your say, scan the QR code or visit geelong.link/ RevenueRatingHYS2 from 6 February to 23 February 2025.
Cutting the ribbon to officially open The Nest.
L to R: 2024 Youth Council member Friday Nuneza, 2024 Junior Mayor Hteemoo Yohellaymusaw, Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM, Minister for Youth Natalie Suleyman MP, Member for Geelong Christine Couzens MP, 2025 Junior Mayor Ayush Singh.
Our Youth Council unveiled for 2025
by Louise Edebone
Blues and roots under the stars
By Matt Hewson
Americana on the Bellarine returns to Drysdale this month with a lineup of local and international acts.
The locally-run outdoor mini music festival is now in its third year as a live event after the first Americana on the Bellarine was forced online due to COVID-19 in 2022.
The all-ages twilight concert, held under the trees at the Potato Shed, will feature blues, roots, country, folk, rock, rockabilly and gospel, with a stellar lineup including headline act Matt Joe Gow (NZ), Andrea Robertson and band, The Mojo Corner and Jasmin Adria.
Robertson, who is also the founder and organiser of the event, said this year’s Americana on the Bellarine was shaping up to be the biggest and best yet.
“I don’t think we could have asked for it to be any better last year; we had beautiful weather, so fingers crossed we have that again,” Robertson said.
“But the beauty of being at the Potato Shed is that we can head indoors to their theatre space if we have to. If it looks like the weather is going to turn nasty we’ll just make it happen indoors.
“But we’re really hoping we get to do it outside because it’s such a beautiful outdoor setting… you can bring your own picnic rug or beanbag or camp chair and settle in.
“There’s access to the bar to buy drinks, a food truck available, you can bring your own picnic snacks if you want to. It’s very relaxed and down to earth.”
Robertson said Americana on the Bellarine had always been about giving local artists an annual event to showcase their original music.
“I feel like there’s always lots of opportunity for covers bands and covers artists, but less (so)forsongwritersandaudienceswhowantto discover new music, so we wanted to provide that opportunity locally” she said.
“We have so much talent in our region and I really love bringing people together and giving younger artists a chance to show people what they’re doing and introduce them to new audiences.”
Americana on the Bellarine is at the Potato Shed from 5.30pm on Saturday, February 22. Visit tickets.geelongaustralia.com.au/event/ americana-on-the-bellarine25 for tickets and more information.
Andrea Robertson brings Americana to the Bellarine. (Ivan Kemp) 456837_02
Joe Cocker tribute gig offers big show, big vocals
Renowned for his gritty, powerful vocals and flamboyant stage performances, Joe Cocker was an iconic voice for two generations of music fans.
Geelong audiences will have the chance to experience Australia’s premier Joe Cocker tribute show when the Joe Cocker Express performs at Geelong Arts Centre on Thursday, February 20.
Featuring a nine-piece band playing two one-hour sets of Joe Cocker classics, the show takes listeners on a journey through the legendary singer’s multifaceted career.
“We’ve come up with the Mad Dog versus
Englishman show, which compares Joe’s two contrasting career points,” singer Chev Wilson said.
“Mad Dog shows his early years, when he was wild and crazy and doing all the Beatles songs, the Woodstock performance, all that high energy stuff.
“And then there’s the Englishman, when he was suited up, showing the gentleman side of him doing ballads like Up Where We Belong and Have a Little Faith in Me. That part of his careerwherewegottoseethesoftersideofJoe.”
Wilson said Cocker’s music still hit as hard as ever with audiences.
“As an emoter, singer is all about portraying the emotions we feel as human beings, and Joe was very relatable in that sense,” he said.
“The songs that he chose gave him the opportunity to be able to put those emotions forward; just the level of emotion and pain and power and all these different things that he could portray through his vocal delivery of a song.
“I think that builds a deep connection with people.”
Visit geelongartscentre.org.au for tickets and more information.
Matt Hewson
Free Kinder: Enrol for 2025.
Free Kinder is available for three- and four-year-old children in Victoria at participating services. Free Kinder is available in sessional (standalone) and long day care (childcare) settings, saving families up to $2,563 each year, per child.
At kindergarten, your child will:
• learn language, literacy and numeracy skills through play, art, music and dance
• learn to express themself and make friends in a safe and caring environment
• build skills and confidence before primary school.
Contact your preferred kinder service or local council to learn about how to enrol for 2025.
Visit vic.gov.au/kinder
The Joe Cocker Express comes to Geelong. (Simone Gorman Clark)
CELEBRATING SENIORS
Play can help seniors maintain good mental health
Watching your children frolic through a playground is one of the many joys of being a parent or grandparent, but new research has found that engaging in play with kids could help improve mental health.
Researchers from the University of South Australia (UniSA) and the University of Canberra (UC) have explored the benefits of intergenerational play through specially designed playgrounds for kids and adults. Intergenerational play brings young children and older people together to engage in enjoyable and creative activities such as storytelling, using playground equipment, and games.
The world is facing an aging population, with the proportion of over 60-year-olds set to double and over 80-year-olds set to triple by 2050.
Associate professor and deputy director of the Australian Research Centre for Interactive and Virtual Environments (IVE) at UniSA, FankePeng,saysthatsocietyneedsmorepublic spacesthatenablegenerationalintegrationand interaction.
“There’s a social divide between older and younger people, and it leaves little room for meaningful interaction outside of families and classrooms,” she says.
“This age-based segregation causes feelings ofisolationandsocialdisconnectedness,which inturncanleadtodepression,anxiety,suicidal ideation, and cognitive decline in older adults.
“Thefacilitationofaplaygrounddesignedfor children and their parents and grandparents will foster intergenerational play and lead to positive mental health outcomes.”
Inplayspaceco-designworkshopshostedby the researchers, participants aged 65 and over discussed the benefits of spending time with children and what a shared space could look
like in their community.
Participants also reflected on their favourite play experience, their experiences playing with children, and what elements they would want or need in an intergenerational playground.
“(Spending time with children is) also good for my health. And my wellbeing. And it’s the participation. (That’s really) important,” one participant said. “Playing with the kids also makes you feel young. It gives you that sense of accomplishment that you haven’t lost those skills.”
Some participants noted the need for
accessible amenities like shaded seating, water and toilets, and play equipment that is easy for older people to use while still meeting the needs of children.
Assoc Prof Peng says there are barriers that exist that make it harder for older people to engage in play, such as social attitudes and stigmas that play is only for children.
Removing these barriers is crucial in encouraging interaction between generations, and helping to address mental health concerns as people age, she says.
“Designing a space where children and older
adults can engage with each other is crucial to dismantling the social stigma that stops people from playing once they’re older,” Assoc Prof Peng says.
“We know that people start to feel like it’s not appropriate for them to use playgrounds or engage in children’s activities, and so there’s quite limited opportunities for intergenerational play.
“Creating these shared spaces that older adults can participate in means bridging the generational gap and taking care of the community.”
Summer Open Days 2025
Lakeside Lara, Greater Geelong New homes from $529,000* Wednesday, 12 February 10:30am – 11:30am 11:30am – 12:30pm
Parkside Lucas, Ballarat New homes from $530,000* Thursday, 13 February 10:30am – 11:30am 11:30am – 12:30pm
CELEBRATING SENIORS
Nuts support a healthy lifestyle in older Australians
Regular consumption of nuts is associated with maintaining a healthy lifespan, new research from a Monash University-led team has found.
Published in the Journal Age and Ageing, the researchers said the findings may help guide older individuals and their health professionals in making dietary choices that can support health in older age, including in those whose diet quality may not be optimal.
The study involved 9,916 adults aged over 70 years, who reported on their usual diet as part of the *ASPREE Longitudinal Study of Older Persons (ALSOP) sub-study. Those who reported frequent consumption of nuts, including every day or several times a day, regardless of the type or form of nut, lived longer without dementia or persistent
disability, compared to those who never or infrequently consumed nuts.
First author Holly Wild, a PhD candidate and lecturer from the Monash University School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, said that nuts were a good source of protein, micronutrients, unsaturated fats, fibre and energy, but whole nuts can be difficult to eat for those with poor oral health or chewing difficulties.
“Our study was able to account for poor oral health and other foods that people usually ate, and after adjusting for these and other factors, eating nuts remained positively associated with a healthy lifespan in later life. Nuts can be a good choice for a snack or as part of a meal, even if your diet might not be optimal in other ways,” Ms Wild said.
“Ifyouarewantingtoincorporatemorenuts into your diet, nuts are available in multiple different forms in supermarkets these days, including whole nuts, chopped or crushed nuts, nuts meals, and nut butters or pastes. The latter options may be much more accessible to those with oral health issues, and chopped nuts can be added to salads, cereals and smoothies.
“However, we do recommend keeping salted nuts, and candied and chocolate covered nuts to a minimum.”
The current Australian Dietary Guidelines suggest that adults should be consuming 30 grams of nuts, which is equivalent to 1/3 of a cup or a small handful, or approximately two tablespoons of nut butter on most days of the week, though previous research has reported
that Australian adults over 65 years only average between 4-4.6 grams per day.
“What 30 grams of nuts looks like depends on the type of nut, but typically a ‘handful’ is equivalent to around 25 almonds, 10 walnuts or 40 peanuts,” Ms Wild said.
“Choosing a mixture of nuts means you get thebenefitsofthevaryingamountsofnutrients found in different types of nuts. Nuts taste best and have the highest nutritional content when fresh, so store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to maintain freshness.
“Nuts are a great way to incorporate protein andnutrientsintoourdietinamoresustainable way. For this reason, nut consumption has been recommended by leading scientists as part of the Eat Lancet Commission report for planetary health.”
The ‘angels’ in healthcare
Trust the “angels” of healthcare to live the way you want with Just Better Care.
Rosalie Endrei said the specialist home-aged and disability care support service provided manyservicestohelpherandherhusband,Les, age gracefully in the comfort of their home.
“We have been able to get lots of support for Les through Vision Australia via Les’s Home Care Package,” she said.
“Les has macular degeneration (an eye disease that causes vision loss). Just Better Care paid for this little gadget called a MyEye Pro and it works very well.
“We found that everyone here is just lovely. Everyone that we’ve been in contact with have
thatspecialcareforusandIhatetothinkabout where we’d be without them.”
Les said Just Better Care was an excellent resource and helped him with his mental and physical health.
“You’ve got the charm of a new organisation, and they have people looking to make things better...and I think that it is wonderful to have so many angels working here,” he said.
To start your Just Better Care journey, call 0352221518,emailmailge@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
What to look for in a community when downsizing
At Lifestyle Communities, downsizing isn’t just about moving to a smaller home but about upgrading your lifestyle. With over 20 years of experience in independent living, we know that the right community should give you the freedom to enjoy life, connect with like-minded people, and feel secure in a place that truly feels like home. Whether you’re dreaming of a coastal escape or a vibrant neighbourhood with plenty of social events, here are some key things to consider.
Location and convenience
Where you live sets the tone for your lifestyle. Being close to family and friends makes life more enjoyable, while easy access to
healthcare, shopping, and restaurants ensures your day-to-day is hassle-free. Consider whether the area matches your interests whether that’s beach walks, park strolls, or the buzz of city life.
A sense of community
A welcoming, friendly community makes all the difference. Social events like BBQs, trivia nights,andgroupoutingscreateopportunities to connect.
Having access to clubs and hobbies, such as gardening, arts and crafts, or fitness classes, adds to the experience. Living among like-minded people fosters a supportive environment where every day feels more fulfilling.
Facilities that enhance your lifestyle
A great community should feel like a holiday every day. A stylish clubhouse provides a place to meet, relax, and celebrate, while pools, gyms, and walking tracks help you stay active.
If you have a pet, finding a community with pet-friendly spaces ensures they’ll be as happy as you are.
Peace of mind
Feeling safe in your home is priceless. A community with secure access offers privacy and security, allowing you to relax. And having a next-door neighbour you can rely on when you’re off enjoying your retirement in the Bahamas? That’s peace of mind you can’t put a price on.
Low-maintenance living
Enjoymorefreetimewithahomedesignedfor easy living. Smart, modern layouts maximise space and comfort, while minimal upkeep means no more worrying about mowing lawns or fixing fences.
Take the time to visit, talk to current homeowners, and explore what’s on offer. When you find the perfect balance of security, social activities and lifestyle perks, you’ll know, you’ll get that ‘feeling.’
Thinking about downsizing? Discover the vibrant lifestyle waiting for you at one of our Lifestyle Communities today. Call 1300 50 55 60 to speak to a member of our team.
Experience a welcoming and friendly community. (Pictures: Supplied)
Stories of addiction and hope
The ‘I Am Enough’ documentary will be screened in Geelong next week, showcasing the impacts of lived experience in the justice, addiction and mental health space. Jena Carr speaks with filmmaker Abi Richardson and Kane Nuttall about his experience with drug addiction.
Kane Nuttall spent nearly half his life fighting a war that no one could see, beginning when he was just a teenager.
The Geelong man became addicted to drugs following challenges with mental health and bullying in his early teenage years.
“It was those formative years where you’re trying to find your place in the world and start to do things that are outside of your character looking for validation,” Kane said.
“I was bullied pretty harshly for my appearance in those early days. When I was bullied, I would be sitting around laughing, even though when I was by myself, I was in tears because I felt hollow on the inside.
“I found comfort in drugs because no one else expected anything of me other than to be stoned or high and just having a good time. So, that was my way to connect.
“My self-worth was so low, and I wanted to be somebody else, so with that addiction, I fitted in, but I knew that deep down what I was doing wasn’t great.
“Drugs just became a coping mechanism which led to the addiction which led to everything else that sort of went with that.”
After 15 years of drug addiction, Kane stopped using drugs four months before his 30th birthday and will celebrate 10 years clean on May 4, which is four months before his 40th birthday.
“I knew that I had more to offer than just beingadrugaddict,butIfoundcomfortinthat because my self-worth was so low,” he said.
“I feel lucky that I’m here; I don’t take that for granted. There were some very scary times, and I wouldn’t want anybody to feel the way that I felt.
“I lived in my car with my dog at the heights of my addiction, and I’ve suffered mentally, so being able to look back on how far I’ve come, and the impact, is a nice feeling.
“I always helped people, mainly the wrong people for the wrong reasons, but I knew that I
hadsomethingtooffer.Iwasalwaysakindand generous person.”
Kane founded the for-purpose organisation The Power In You Project (PIYP) in 2017 to help people affected by addiction, mental health and justice-related challenges.
He said that “mental health does not discriminate” and it was important to provide help for people as soon as possible as there was a “short window for people to get help” when they asked for help.
“40percentofmystaffhavelivedexperience, whether it’s with addiction, mental health or through the justice system,” he said.
“Within 24 hours, depending on their circumstance, they will be seen. If they can come down straight away, they will be seen straight away.
“Asking the first time is the hardest part. Making your way down here for the first time is the hardest part. Once people come here for the first time, they’ll realise this is a special community.
“This is a place where people can come and there’s no judgment. It’s all built off lived
experience. Just ask for help. No one should ever be too proud to ask for help. We all need help from time to time.”
Kanerecentlyteamedupwithaward-winning Geelong filmmaker Abi Richardson to create the ‘I Am Enough’ documentary that will be launched at South Geelong’s Pivotonian Cinema on February 13.
Abi said the documentary showcased the true impact of lived experience within the addiction, mental health and justice system space.
“It’sveryhumblingtohaveparticipantsshare their stories because they’ve been in some very darkplacesandbeenveryvulnerable,”shesaid.
“One of the participants in the documentary talks about how she was a drug addict for a long time and tried to overdose several times. She’d done many programs, but only for eight or 10 weeks.
“There was an end date, and she’d get to the end date where she was supposed to be better, but she wasn’t better, and then she felt even worse. However, there is no end date for the project here.
‘‘ It’s very
humbling to
have
participants share their stories because they’ve been in some very dark places ’’ - Abi Richardson
“We want many more people to try and understand a little more about why people become addicted or in the justice system.
“You scratch the surface, most people will know someone who’s been affected by addiction, and that addiction almost always comes from some trauma.”
Abi said that if someone was “brave enough to say, ‘I need help’, they need help right now” and that the PIYP was a great place for people to start.
“When I met Kane, I was really impressed with the project. The way they were doing things seemed quite different, and I hadn’t heard of that approach before,” she said.
“I felt it would be really good to share it with a wider community because they’re working so hard doing what they’re doing; sometimes it’s hard to get that out there.
“There’s a lot of people who are affected by addiction,whetherthey’readdictedthemselves or they have family members who are.
“It was good to be able to work with these guys for just over several months and look at different perspectives of why people become addicted and why this project is so successful in helping people.”
Help is available by contacting the Power In You Project on 5292 3000 or visiting in-person at 44 Little Fyans Street South Geelong or through the National Alcohol and Other Drug hotline on 1800 250 015.
Lifeline Australia also provides 24/7 crisis support and suicide prevention on 13 11 14.
Kane Nuttall and Abi Richardson.
Kane Nuttall and Abi Richardson with The Power In You Project staff Josh Smith, left, Jayden Rippon, and Matt Ludbrook. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 456768
The Guide
SANDI TOKSVIG’S WOODLAND RESTORATION
SBS, Saturday, 7.30pm
QIhost Sandi Toksvig might strike viewers as a green thumb, but she’s the first to confess she knows nothing about gardening. All that’s about to change though, as Toksvig and her wife Debbie (both pictured) have just fulfilled their lifelong dream of buying an ancient woodland in southern England. With wit, determination and a little help, the pair begin the process of restoring their patch of nature tonight. Faced with a dark, overgrown, waterlogged jungle, their first step is clearing the plot’s invasive holly bushes to let more light in – it’s an entertaining, educational journey for viewers and Toksvig alike.
ST. DENIS MEDICAL
Seven, Monday, 9.10pm
This medical mockumentary from Superstore Ledgin is a riotous comedy that takes the best of Scrubs the volume up to 11. Set in a chronically underfunded hospital in Oregon, it’s chaos as the beleaguered staff try their best to treat patients and maintain their own sanity.
Aussie Josh Lawson ( Lies) plays trauma surgeon Bruce, Bridesmaids McLendon-Covey is hospital director Joyce and WomenKill Tolman is supervising nurse Alex. Tonight, Bruce tries to demonstrate his work’s value, while emergency doc Ron (David Alan Grier) thinks a patient has a crush on him.
Doctor in the house: Aussie actor Josh Lawson plays trauma surgeon Bruce in St.Denis Medical
PICK OF THE WEEK
MUSTER DOGS: COLLIES AND KELPIES
ABC TV, Sunday, 7.30pm
The spotlight is once again on rural Australia in this gorgeous homegrown series showcasing the bonds shared by graziers and their working dogs on farms across the country. There’s an exciting twist this time around: while the first season followed five kelpie puppies and the second a litter of adorable border collies, the third instalment puts both to the test – comparing their strengths and weaknesses and highlighting the work each breed is best suited to. Tonight, the 12-week-old puppies settle into their new homes as the trainers get to know their personalities and introduce them to life on the land. In Kaniva, Victoria, Kim is mourning the loss of her favourite dog, so connection comes first with goofy kelpie Banjo’s training.
Friday, February 7
ABC TV (2) SBS (3)
6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News
Mornings. 10.00 Planet America. (R) 10.30
Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (PG, R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon.
1.00 Silent Witness. (Masv, R) 3.00 Nigella Bites. (R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.35 Monty Don’s Spanish Gardens. (Premiere) Monty Don visits Spain.
8.35 Silent Witness. (Mav) The team investigates a body discocered in a flat after being dead for a year.
10.20 Optics. (Ml, R) Meredith stumbles upon a clue to Fritz’s secrets.
10.50 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
11.20 ABC Late News.
11.40 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee (NZ) (PG, R)
12.25 Grand Designs. (R)
1.10 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Costa Concordia: Why She Sank. (Mal, R) A look at the sinking of the CostaConcordia
8.30 Ray Martin: Mysteries Of The Outback. (Ml, R) Ray Martin embarks on a quest to find a mysterious outback rock formation.
10.20 SBS World News Late.
10.50 Bonn. (MA15+s) 11.45 Sisi. (MA15+av, R) 2.50 Barkley Manor. (R) 3.20 Inside The Modelling Agency. (Ml, R) 4.15 Peer To Peer. (a, R) 4.45 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (PGa, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 4.25pm Nella The Princess Knight. 4.40 Vida The Vet. 4.50 Bluey. 5.00 Peppa Pig. 5.10 Pfffirates. 5.20 Kangaroo Beach. 5.35 Fireman Sam. 5.45 Hey Duggee. 5.55 Paddington. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts. 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 BTN Newsbreak. 8.30 Mythbusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs.
PRETTY
BABY: BROOKE SHIELDS
SBS, Tuesday, 8.30pm
Propelled into the public eye as a 12-year-old by a controversial role in 1978’s Pretty Baby, actress and model Brooke Shields (pictured) found her career defined by a sexuality that she didn’t yet understand – a situation compounded when she went on to star in TheBlueLagoonand a campaign of suggestive Calvin Klein ads as a teen. As much a cultural exposé as an emotional celebrity tell-all, this two-part documentary sees a 57-year-old Shields reflect on child stardom and her relationship with “momager” Teri. Shields’ lucid insights on the harsh realities of life in the spotlight and a vivid collection of archival footage make for compelling viewing.
SEVEN (6, 7)
5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6am Morning Programs. 9.15 For The Love Of Dogs. (PGa, R) 10.10 Great Lighthouses Of Ireland. (R) 11.05 Great Canal Journeys. (R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Such Was Life. (PGa, R) 2.10 History Of Britain. (PGa, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Secrets Of The Imperial War Museum. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven Noon News. 1.00 MOVIE: No Good Deed. (2020, Mav) Michelle Borth. 3.00 Sri Lanka Vs Australia: Pre-Game Show. 3.30 Cricket. Second Test. Sri Lanka v Australia. Day 2. Morning session. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. Johanna Griggs learns recycling secrets with Lottie Dalziel. Adam Dovile and Charlie Albone rejuvenate a Federation home. Colin Fassnidge bakes spiced stone fruit. Graham Ross revels in spring azaleas.
8.30 To Be Advised.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Three contestants go head to head in a test of brain power. 5.00 NBC Today. International news including interviews with people from the world of business, politics, media and sports.
7TWO (62, 72)
Al Jazeera Newshour. 6am Home Shopping. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Surf Patrol. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes And Gardens. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 2.30 Sydney Weekender. 3.00 DVine Living. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Surf Patrol. 4.30 Better Homes And Gardens. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Bargain Hunt. 12.30am DVine Living. 1.00 Auction Squad. 2.00 Harry’s Practice. 2.30 Surf Patrol. 3.00 Better Homes. 4.00 Late Programs.
NINE (8, 9)
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Love On The Reef. (2023, G)
2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG) 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 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo: Savannah Elephants. (PG) Elephants and their enclosure are cleaned.
8.30 MOVIE: The Equalizer. (2014, MA15+lv, R) A former black-ops agent, who faked his death, comes out of retirement to rescue a girl. Denzel Washington, Chloë Grace Moretz.
11.10 MOVIE: The Founder. (2016, Ml, R) Michael Keaton.
1.15 Innovation Nation. 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 Postcards. (PG, R)
(81, 92)
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 AACTA Awards 2025. The AACTA Awards honour Australian television creatives and performers for their achievements over the past year.
10.00 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 10.25 The Graham Norton Show. (PGal, R) Guests include Dame Judi Dench. 11.25 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news. 12.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.30 Home Shopping. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. Noon Hart Of Dixie. 1.00 Bewitched. 1.30 I Dream
Blue Lamp. (1950, PG) 5.30 Our Yorkshire Farm. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Yes Minister. 8.30 MOVIE: Letters To Juliet. (2010, PG) 10.40 The Closer. 11.40 Yes Minister. 12.40am Antiques
VIC
Puppy love: Kim and young kelpie Banjo bond.
Saturday, February 8
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. (PGa, R)
1.30 Optics. (Ml, R) 2.00 Hippo Watch With Steve Backshall. (PG, R) 2.45 Mozart: Rise Of A Genius. (Ml, R) 4.00 Eat The Invaders. (PG, R) 4.30 Muster Dogs: Collies And Kelpies. (PG, R) 5.30 Dr Karl’s How Things Work. (R)
6.00 Australian Story: Unfiltered – Celeste Barber. (R) Celeste Barber shares her story.
6.30 Back Roads: Outback Way, NT Pt 1. (R) Presented by Lisa Millar.
7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 Beyond Paradise. (Final, PG) Humphrey investigates an inexplicable crime.
8.30 Vera. (PGadlv, R) After the body of a young woman is found washed up on the banks of the River Tyne, DCI Vera Stanhope investigates who would have wanted a beloved mother, friend and manager at a green energy company dead.
10.05 The Newsreader. (Ml, R) Helen and Dale are forced into competition.
11.00 Unforgotten. (Madl, R) Remains are discovered in a period property.
11.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.35pm Fireman Sam. 5.45 Hey Duggee. 5.55 Paddington. 6.05 Kiya And The Kimoja Heroes. 6.20 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts. 6.35 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Kids BBQ Championship. 8.15 Chopped Junior. 9.05 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.50 Speechless. 10.10 Officially Amazing. 10.40 Late Programs.
NITV (34)
6am Morning Programs. 11.35 MOVIE: Satellite Boy. (2012, PG) 1.10pm Wildlife Rescue New Zealand. 2.00 Nula. 2.30 Reel Injun: On The Trail Of The Hollywood Indian. 4.10 The Shaman’s Apprentice. 4.30 Strait To The Plate. 5.05 Spirit Talker. 5.30 Ice Cowboys. 6.20 News. 6.30 The Other Side. 7.30 Alone Australia. 8.30 MOVIE: The Exorcist. (1973, MA15+) 10.35 Johnny Cash: Redemption Of An Idol. 12.15am Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 8.00 DD India News Hour. 9.00 Britain’s Great Outdoors. (R) 10.00 BBC News At Ten. 10.30 ABC World News Tonight. 11.00 PBS News. 12.00 Cycling. ProVelo Super League. Round 2. Melbourne To Warrnambool Men’s race. 3.00 Sailing. SailGP Sydney. Day 1. 4.30 Cycling. AlUla Tour. Highlights. 5.30 Auschwitz: The Inside Man. (PGav, R)
6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Sandi Toksvig’s Woodland Restoration. (Premiere, Ml) Sandi Toksvig restores a patch of woodland. 8.25 Scotland The New Wild: Highlands. (PG) Explores Scotland’s Highlands, a vast landscape dominated by hills, forests and glens. 9.25 Great Australian Walks With Julia Zemiro. (PGa, R) Julia Zemiro heads to Tasmania. 10.25 Beautiful Lakes Of Northern Italy. (R) 11.15 Home Jacking. (Premiere, Mlv)
12.35 The Man Who Died. (MA15+as, R) 2.25 Love Your Garden. (R) 3.20 Inside The Modelling Agency. (Ml, R) 4.15 Peer To Peer. (a, R) 4.45 Destination Flavour China 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: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. Inglis Millennium Day and Caulfield Family Day. 3.00 Sri Lanka Vs Australia: Pre-Game Show. 3.30 Cricket. Second Test. Sri Lanka v Australia. Day 3. Morning session. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) An X-ray of a package at the mail centre has the wildlife team desperate to get it open before it is too late.
7.30 MOVIE: The Bourne Identity. (2002, Mlv, R) A man sets out to discover his identity after being hauled from the ocean with amnesia. Matt Damon, Franka Potente, Chris Cooper.
10.00 MOVIE: Taken. (2008, MA15+av, R)
A former spy uses his expertise to save his estranged daughter after she and her friend are kidnapped. Liam Neeson, Maggie Grace, Famke Janssen.
12.00 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. (PGa, R) Dr Harry Cooper meets a bomb detection dog unit.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R)
5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PG, R)
7TWO (62, 72)
6am
Whisky Galore. Continued. (2016, PG) 6.50 Arthur And The Two Worlds War. (2010, PG) 8.45 Hacker. (2019, PG, Danish) 10.30 Kompromat. (2022, M, French) 12.50pm We Are Still Here. (2022, M) 2.30 Whina. (2022, PG, Maori) 4.35 Summerland. (2020, PG) 6.30 The Magic Of Belle Isle. (2012, PG) 8.30 Breath. (2017, M) 10.45 Mothering Sunday. (2021, MA15+) 12.45am Late Programs.
Sunday, February 9
ABC TV (2) SBS (3)
6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Insiders. 10.00 Offsiders. 10.30 World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PGa, R) 11.30 Praise. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. (R) 1.00 New Leash On Life. (Final, PG, R) 1.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 2.25 Monty Don’s Spanish Gardens. (R) 3.25 Long Lost Family. (Final, PG, R) 4.15 Extraordinary Escapes. (PG, R) 5.00 Maggie Beer’s Big Mission. (R) 6am Morning Programs. 11.30 APAC Weekly. 12.00 Cycling. ProVelo Super League. Round 2. Melbourne To Warrnambool Women’s Race. 3.00 Sailing. SailGP Sydney. Day 2. 4.30 PBS Washington Week. 4.55 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 5.00 Dylan Alcott: Peter Bol And Joseph Deng. (PG, R) 5.25 Rommel: The Soldier, The Son And Hitler. (PGav, R)
ABC News.
7.30 Muster Dogs: Collies And Kelpies. The puppies settle into their new homes.
8.30 The Newsreader. (Ml) When news of an oil spill breaks on the day of Public Eye’s launch, Helen is pressured to rethink her show format.
9.20 Love Me. (Mls) Peter and Clara have his ex over for dinner which ends with Peter demanding a paternity test.
10.10 MOVIE: BMX Bandits. (1983, PG, R) BMX riders become mixed up with bank robbers. Nicole Kidman.
11.40 You Can’t Ask That. (R)
12.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.00 Australia Remastered. (PG, R) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 Insiders. (R)
6am Children’s Programs. 5.35pm Fireman Sam. 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 Riley Rocket. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Shaun The Sheep. 7.35 Moominvalley. 8.00 Horrible Histories. 8.30 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.10 Speechless. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Mysteries Of Loch Ness. (PG) A look at the Loch Ness Monster legend. 9.20 Legends Of The Pharaohs: Hatshepsut, The Pharaoh Queen. (Mas, R) Takes a look at Hatshepsut, the fifth Pharaoh of ancient Egypt’s 18th Dynasty.
10.25 Great British Landmark Fixers: Edinburgh North Bridge. (R) A team works on North Bridge in Edinburgh. 11.15 Miniseries: The Boleyns: A Scandalous Family. (Mas, R) Charts the rise and fall of the Boleyn family.
2.40 Love Your Garden. (PGa, R) 3.35 Inside The Modelling Agency. (PGl, R)
4.30 Peer To Peer. (PGa, R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15
France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera News.
6am WorldWatch.
9.30 Small Business Secrets. 10.05 Front Up 2000. 12.15pm Figure Skating. ISU Grand Prix. Skate America. Replay. 1.50 Jeopardy! 3.55 WorldWatch. 4.25 PBS Washington Week. 4.50 Queer Sports. 5.45 Domino Masters. 6.40 Abandoned Engineering. 8.30 The UnXplained With William Shatner. 10.10 WWE Legends. (Return) 11.45 Late Programs.
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: Saturday. (PG) 12.00 Destination WA. (Return, PG) 12.30 My Way. (R) 1.00 Let’s Eat With George. (Premiere) 1.30 MOVIE: Buckley’s Chance. (2021, PGal, R) Bill Nighy. 3.30 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo. (PG, R) 4.30 Explore TV. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Country House Hunters Australia. (R) 6am Morning Programs. 10.00 The Weekly Kick-Off. (R) 10.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals, R) 12.00 Australia By Design: Innovations.
6.00 9News Saturday.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Space Invaders. (Return, PGa) Experts help people declutter their lives.
8.30 MOVIE: The Blind Side. (2009, PGdlv, R) A homeless teenager realises his dream of becoming a gridiron player, thanks to the aid of a kind family. Sandra Bullock, Tim McGraw, Quinton Aaron.
11.10 MOVIE: Stronger. (2017, MA15+l, R) An ordinary man becomes a symbol of hope. Jake Gyllenhaal.
1.20 Destination WA. (PG, R)
1.50 Garden Gurus Moments. (R)
2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG)
2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.30 Global Shop. (R)
5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
9GEM (81, 92)
Three. (1940)
(1954,
7MATE (64, 73)
Morning Programs. 1pm Blokesworld. 1.30 On Tour With Allan Border. 2.00 Rides
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (Premiere) Neale Whitaker and Andrew Winter help Australians renovate or find a new home.
8.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Follows the staff at the Animal Welfare League as it tries to find the right fit for a man with childhood dog-attack trauma, and a three-year-old and his family who are hoping to find a forever friend in a staffy puppy. 9.30 Ambulance Australia. (Ma, R) NSW Ambulance delivers a baby and saves a four-year-old with a critical heart condition. 10.30 Ambulance UK. (Mal, R) A patient has fallen from a tree. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
2.30
The Courtneys Of Curzon Street. (1947) 4.50 MOVIE: Khartoum. (1966) 7.30 MOVIE: Chariots Of Fire. (1981, PG) 10.00 To Be Advised. 12.30am Late Programs.
9GO! (82, 93)
6am Children’s Programs. 1.50pm MOVIE: Courage Mountain. (1990, PG) 3.45 Ben Fogle: Starting Up Starting Over. 4.45 Young Sheldon. 5.45 MOVIE: Cats & Dogs. (2001, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Who Framed Roger Rabbit? (1988, PG) 9.35 MOVIE: The Full Monty. (1997, M) 11.30 Young Sheldon. 12.30am
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Air Crash Inv: Accident Files. (PGa, R) 1.00 TBA. 3.00 Pre-Game Show. 3.30 Cricket. Second Test. Sri Lanka v Australia. Day 4. Morning session. (Please note: alternative schedule may be shown due to changes to cricket coverage). 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Australian Idol. (PGs) Hosted by Ricki-Lee and Scott Tweedie.
8.50 Queen: In Their Own Words. (Mal) The four founding members of the rock band Queen, tell the story of their lives and careers in music.
9.50 Lee Kernaghan: Boy From The Bush. Part concert film and part road movie featuring Australian country singer Lee Kernaghan.
11.55 Autopsy USA: Debbie Reynolds. (Ma, R)
12.55 Friday Night Lights. (Madsv, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62, 72)
6am Morning Programs. 10.30 DVine Living. 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 Cities Of The Underworld. 4.30 Steam Train Journeys. 5.30 I Escaped To The Country. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Rosemary & Thyme. 8.30 Vera. 10.30 Extreme Railways. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Hello SA. (PG, R) 6.30 A Current Affair. (R) 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Golf. Jack Newton Celebrity Classic. 11.00 For The Love Of Pets. (PGm, R) 12.00 Fishing Australia. 12.30 The Pet Rescuers. (PGm, R) 1.00 MOVIE: The Cutting Edge. (1992, PGl, R) D.B. Sweeney. 3.00 Space Invaders. (PGa, R) 4.00 David Attenborough’s Green
6.00 9News Sunday.
7.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls) It is time for the commitment ceremony.
8.30 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians.
9.30 9News Late.
10.00 See No Evil: The Big Guy. (Mav) A look at two murders.
11.00 The First 48: The Code. (Mal) A young man is murdered.
11.50 Iconic Australia: The Pub. (Mav, R)
12.50 Destination WA. (R)
1.20 Talking Honey. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
4.30 Fishing Australia. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
9GEM (81, 92)
6am Skippy. 6.30 Amazing Facts With Doug Batchelor. 7.00 Invictus Games: Preview. 8.00 Invictus Games: Opening Ceremony. 10.30 MOVIE: Daleks’ Invasion Earth 2150 A.D. (1966, PG) 12.20pm MOVIE: Quiet Weekend. (1946) 2.15 MOVIE: Pacific Destiny. (1956) 4.15 MOVIE: Sabata. (1969, PG) 6.30 M*A*S*H. 8.30 MOVIE: Rambo: First Blood. (1982, M) 10.25 The Closer. 11.25 Late Programs.
6am Children’s Programs. 1pm Young Sheldon. 2.00 MOVIE: Fletch Lives. (1989, PG) 4.00 MOVIE: Bean. (1997, PG) 5.45 MOVIE: Johnny English. (2003, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Sherlock Holmes. (2009, M)
6.00 The Sunday Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.00 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) Hosted by Julia Morris and Robert Irwin.
8.30 MOVIE: Rocketman. (2019, Madls, R) Based on a true story. Follows the life of English singer-songwriter Elton John, from his years as a prodigy at the Royal Academy of Music to his influential and long-time musical partnership with Bernie Taupin. Taron Egerton, Jamie Bell, Richard Madden. 11.00 FBI. (Mv, R) A local club owner is found dead. 11.50 The Sunday Project. (R) A look at the day’s news. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.
Monday, February 10
ABC TV (2) SBS (3)
6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News
Mornings. 10.00 McCartney 3, 2, 1. (R) 10.30 Vera. (PG, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00
The Human Revolution. (Final, PG, R) 2.00 Parliament Question Time. 3.00 Nigella Bites. (R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (R) 4.10 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (PG, R) 5.25 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 7.30. Presented by Sarah Ferguson. 8.00 Australian Story. Presented by Leigh Sales.
8.30 Four Corners. Investigative journalism program exposing scandals, firing debate and confronting taboos.
9.15 Media Watch. Presented by Linton Besser.
9.35 Mozart: Rise Of A Genius. (Ml) Mozart moves to Vienna.
10.35 ABC Late News.
10.50 The Business. (R)
11.05 Planet America. (R)
11.40 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. (R)
12.10 Grand Designs. (R) 1.00 Parliament Question Time. 2.00 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.40 Parkinson In Australia. (PGa, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
SEVEN (6, 7)
6am Morning Programs. 12.10 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News Weekend. 1.30 Al Jazeera News Hour. 2.00 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 2.05 History Of Britain. (PGa, R) 2.55 Railway Journeys UK. (PG, R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Secrets Of The Imperial War Museum. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. News, sport and weather. 10.00 NFL. Super Bowl LIX. Kansas City Chiefs v Philadelphia Eagles. 3.00 The Chase. (R) Contestants race to answer quiz questions correctly to avoid being caught by The Chaser. Hosted by Bradley Walsh. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 To Be Advised.
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Madrid With Michael Portillo. Michael Portillo models capes. 8.25 Wilderness With Simon Reeve: Patagonia. Simon Reeve travels through wilderness of Patagonia, at the foot of the South American continent. 9.35 Inside Sydney Airport: Interrupted Journeys. (PGal, R) Friday is a busy day at the airport. 10.35 SBS World News Late.
11.05 Wisting. (Return, Mal)
12.50 You Shall Not Lie. (MA15+als, R)
3.00 Barkley Manor. (R) 3.30 Inside The Modelling Agency. (PGln, R) 4.25 Peer To Peer. (PG, R) 4.55 Destination Flavour China 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. (PGas) Justin fears that Lyrik is over.
7.30 Australian Idol. (PGal) As the auditions continue, more hopefuls strive to prove they have what it takes.
9.10 St. Denis Medical. (PGals) After Ron hexes the day to prove superstitions are not real, things at the hospital start getting weird.
10.10 First Dates UK. (PG) Singles experience the thrills of dating.
11.15 Lopez Vs. Lopez. (PGadls) Quinten misses out on a promotion. 12.15 Friday Night Lights. (Madsv, R) Julie and Matt go on their first date.
1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6am Morning Programs. 1.35pm First Sounds. 1.55 Black As. 2.00 Unsettled. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Waabiny Time. 3.25
7MATE (64, 73)
MA15+) 3.05 Late Programs.
Tuesday, February 11
Such Was Life. (R) 2.10 History Of Britain. (PGal, R) 3.00 The Weekly Football Wrap. (R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Britain’s Secret Islands. (PGav, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) 7.00 ABC News.
7.30 7.30.
8.00 Dr Karl’s How Things Work: Cheese. (Final) Dr Karl Kruszelnicki learns how cheese is made.
8.30 Eat The Invaders: Deer. (Final, PG) Hosted by Tony Armstrong. 9.00 Hippo Watch With Steve Backshall. (Final, PG, R) Presented by Steve Backshall.
9.45 Ningaloo Nyinggulu: Choices. (Final, R)
10.45 ABC Late News. 11.00 The Business. (R) 11.15 Four Corners. (R) 12.00 Media Watch. (R)
12.20 Parliament Question Time. 1.20 Grand Designs. (R) 2.10 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.25 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? Melissa Doyle. (PG, R) 8.30 Pretty Baby: Brooke Shields. (Malv) Charts Brooke Shields’ life. 9.45 The Artist’s View: Van Halen. (Ml, R) Profiles American rock band Van Halen.
10.15 SBS World News Late. 10.45 Beyond Signs. (Final, MA15+av) 11.45 Fargo. (MA15+v, R) 1.30 Barkley Manor. (PG, R) 2.00 Inside The Modelling Agency. (PG, R) 3.50 Bamay. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (PG, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Home And Away. (PG) Dana enlists help for her next scheme. Leah plays with fire. Harper tries to hide her feelings.
7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) As the auditions continue, more hopefuls strive to prove they have what it takes.
9.20 The Hunting Party. (M) The team tracks Clayton Jessup, a deranged killer who targets happy families. Bex learns who she can and cannot trust.
10.20 The Irrational. (Mav) A Wall Street rising star dies.
12.20 Friday Night Lights. (Madsv, R) Taylor tries to keep Matt and Julie apart.
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
NINE (8, 9)
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls, R) 1.30 To Be Advised. 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. (PG) 5.00[MELB]TippingPointAustralia.(PG) 5.30 WIN News.
6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) Intimacy week gets underway.
9.00 Australian Crime Stories: The Investigators: Strike Force Kindra. (Mdv) Retired Detective Superintendent Deborah Wallace shares the story of Strike Force Kindra. 10.00 9News Late.
10.30 Forensics: Murder Scene: Pelm. (MA15+alv)
11.30 First On Scene. (Man)
12.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.00 Hello SA. (PG)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
TEN (5, 10)
9GO! (82, 93)
6.00 9News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) The husbands’ intimacy workshop gets derailed.
9.00 Madam. (MA15+ls) With a farmer convention in town, The Sweethearts are ready for business.
10.20 9News Late.
10.50 My Feet Are Killing Me. (Mm) Vincent fixes a woman’s foot.
11.40 The Equalizer. (Mv, R)
12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Our State On A Plate. (PG, R)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
Believer’s Voice Of Victory.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) The celebrities continue to compete in a test of survival in the jungle for the chance to claim the title. 9.00 NCIS: Sydney. (Mv, R) The team investigates when a US petty officer’s body is found in Sydney’s historic Rocks area.
Wednesday, February 12
ABC TV (2) SBS (3)
6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News Mornings. 10.00 Four Corners. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 National Press Club Address. 1.35 Media Watch. (R) 2.00 Parliament Question Time. 3.00 Nigella Bites. (R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (R) 4.10 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 7.30.
8.00 Hard Quiz. (PG) Presented by Tom Gleeson.
8.30 Optics. (Ml) Greta and Nicole offload a client onto Ian.
9.00 Guy Montgomery’s Guy Mont Spelling Bee (NZ) (PG, R) Presented by Guy Montgomery.
9.45 Planet America. A look at American politics.
10.20 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)
10.50 ABC Late News.
11.05 The Business. (R)
11.20 Aftertaste. (Mls, R)
12.20 Grand Designs. (R) 1.10 Parliament Question Time. 2.10 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
3.40 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Morning Programs. 10.05 Great Lighthouses Of Ireland. (PGa, R) 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 Such Was Life. (R) 2.10 History Of Britain. (PGav, R) 3.00 Railway Journeys UK. (PG, R) 3.35 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Britain’s Secret Islands. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Lord Lucan: The Evidence. (Premiere, M) A look at the case of Lord Lucan.
8.30 Wonders Of The Sun With Dara Ó Briain. (PG) Dara Ó Briain sets out to learn about the Sun, beginning with a look at a total eclipse. 9.25 Miniseries: Playing Nice. (Mal) Pete is questioned by the police.
10.20 SBS World News Late. 10.50 Pagan Peak. (MA15+av) 11.50 Rogue Heroes. (MA15+al, R)
12.55 Agent Hamilton. (MA15+v, R) 2.40 Barkley Manor. (R) 3.10 Inside The Modelling Agency. (PGl, R) 4.05 Peer To Peer. (R) 4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am WorldWatch.
10.00 Front Up 2000. 12.05pm WorldWatch. 12.35 Hudson & Rex. 2.15 Unknown Amazon. 3.10 Fashionista. 3.20 The Weekly Football Wrap. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.50 The Fast History Of. 6.15 The Machines That Built America. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 MOVIE: The Last Samurai. (2003, MA15+) 11.15 MOVIE: The Kid Detective. (2020, MA15+) 1am Late Programs.
SEVEN (6, 7)
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 To Be Advised. 3.00 The Chase. (R) Hosted by Bradley Walsh. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 To Be Advised.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) Leah digs her heels in.
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PG) Hosted by Lee Mack. 8.30 Ludwig. (Mav) A new case takes Ludwig on a walking tour of Cambridge where he is faced with an impossible question.
9.45 Breathtaking. (Premiere, Ma) Follows NHS staff during the COVID-19 pandemic, revealing the reality of hospital life during unprecedented times.
10.45 The Suspects: True Australian Thrillers. (Mlv, R) Hosted by Roy Billing.
11.45 Autopsy USA: Audrey Hepburn. (Ma, R)
12.45 Damnation. (MA15+asv) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
NINE (8, 9)
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. (Mls, R) 1.30 My Way. 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. (PG) 5.00[MELB]TippingPointAustralia.(PG) 5.30 WIN News.
6.00 9News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls)
It is time for the second dinner party.
9.00 Big Miracles. (Mam) Scientists help Alicia and Chris to overcome Alicia’s history of miscarriages.
10.00 9News Late.
10.30 Casualty 24/7. (MA15+m, R) Follows staff and patients at a hospital.
11.30 The Equalizer. (Mav, R)
12.15 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.05 Explore TV. (R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R)
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)
4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
9GEM (81, 92)
TEN (5, 10)
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer.
6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) The celebrities continue to compete in a test of survival in the jungle for the chance to claim the title. 9.00 Elsbeth. (Msv) An elite matchmaker goes to extreme lengths to keep her socialite client from finding out the truth about her perfect new husband. 10.00 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 10.25 NCIS: Hawai’i. (Mdsv) The team goes undercover. 11.20 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news.
12.25 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.
NITV (34)
6am TBA. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Surf Patrol. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 Air Crash Inv. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Surf Patrol. 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 Morning Programs. 12.55pm The Young And The Restless. 1.50 Explore. 2.00 Invictus Games. 2025 Vancouver Whistler. Day 2. Highlights. 3.00 Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE: The Flying Scot. (1957) 5.00 Our Yorkshire Farm: 5 Years On The Farm Special. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 To The Manor Born. 8.30 Midsomer Murders. 10.30 The Closer. 11.30 Late Programs.
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 BTN Newsbreak. 8.40 Doctor Who. 10.25 Merlin. 11.10 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. Noon Gossip Girl. 2.00 The Golden Girls. 2.30 The Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 The Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 6.00 The Golden Girls. 6.30 The Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: RoboCop. (1987, MA15+) 10.35 Seinfeld. 11.35 The O.C. 12.35am The Nanny. 1.35 Love During Lockup. 2.30 Surfing Aust. 3.00 Bakugan: Legends. 3.30 Late Programs.
6am The Adventures Of Baron Munchausen. (1988, PG) 8.20 Diana. (2013, PG) 10.25 Murder By Decree. (1979, M) 12.40pm Aline. (2020, M, French) 3.00 Without A Clue. (1988, PG) 5.00 The Producers. (1967, PG) 6.40 Finding Graceland. (1998, PG) 8.30 Kill Bill: Vol. 1. (2003, MA15+) 10.35 Speed Kills. (2018, M) 12.30am Ladies Of Steel. (2020, M, Finnish) 2.15 Late Programs.
7MATE (64, 73) SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 2pm Unsettled. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Waabiny Time. 3.25 Little J And Big Cuz. 3.35 Spartakus. 4.05 Cities Of Gold. 4.35 Motown Magic. 5.00 Our Stories. 5.30 Living Black. 6.00 Bamay. 6.30 News. 6.40 Arctic Secrets. 7.30 Great Australian Walks. 8.30 Island Echoes With Nornie Bero. 9.00 MOVIE: The Color Purple. (1985, PG) 11.40 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 9.00 America’s Game. 10.00 Storage Wars. 10.30 American Resto. 11.00 American Pickers. Noon Outback Truckers. 2.00 Pawn Stars. 3.00 Sri Lanka Vs Australia: ODI Pre-Game Show. 3.30 Cricket. One Day International Series. Sri Lanka v Australia. Game 1. First Innings. 7.00 Cricket. One Day International Series. Sri Lanka v Australia. Game 1. Second Innings. 11.00 Late Programs.
9GO! (82, 93)
Thursday, February 13
ABC TV (2) SBS (3)
6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News Mornings. 10.00 Eat The Invaders. (Final, PG, R) 10.30 Back Roads. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 The Newsreader. (Ml, R) 2.00 Parliament Question Time. 3.00 Nigella Bites. (R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6am Morning Programs. 11.05 Great Canal Journeys. (R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Such Was Life. (PG, R) 2.05 History Of Britain. (Final, PGav, R) 3.00 Railway Journeys UK. (PG, R) 3.35 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Britain’s Secret Islands. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! (R) 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.25 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 7.30.
8.00 Back Roads: Outback Way, NT Pt 2. (PG) Presented by Lisa Millar.
8.30 Sue Perkins’ Big Adventure: Paris To Istanbul. (Premiere, Mn) Sue Perkins visits Paris.
9.20 Grand Designs: Dunstable. (PG, R) Hosted by Kevin McCloud. 10.10 Dr Karl’s How Things Work. (Final, R)
10.35 ABC Late News. 10.50 The Business. (R) 11.10 Miriam Margolyes Almost Australian. (Ml, R) 12.10 Grand Designs. (R) 12.55 Parliament Question Time. 1.55 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 2.45 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)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Finding Your Roots: Fathers And Sons. (PG) Hosted by Henry Louis Gates Jr. 8.30 Scotland’s Poshest Train: Alan Cumming. (PG) Alan Cumming continues his VIP tour of Scotland on board the RoyalScotsman 9.30 The Darkness. (Malv) Hulda gets trapped with the killer. 10.20 SBS World News Late. 10.50 Golden Boy. (Premiere, MA15+ds) 11.45 The Allegation. (Mav, R) 2.20 Barkley Manor. (R) 2.50 Living With The Boss. (PG, R) 3.40 Peer To Peer. (R) 4.10 Bamay. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: Be My Valentine. (2013, PGa) William Baldwin. 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 To Be Advised. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. (Mls, R) 1.30 Mr Mayor. (PGs, R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. (PG) 5.00[MELB]TippingPointAustralia.(PG, R) 5.30 WIN News.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGas) Eden faces Remi. 8.30 MOVIE: Bridget Jones: The Edge Of Reason. (2004, Mdl, R) Bridget Jones fears her relationship with Mark Darcy is in jeopardy after meeting his glamorous colleague. The situation escalates to the point where she decides to escape to Thailand, where she encounters her ex. Renée Zellweger, Colin Firth, Hugh Grant.
10.45 To Be Advised.
12.15 Damnation. (MA15+asv) Local farms face foreclosure.
1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 9News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 RBT. (Mdl) Follows the activities of police units.
8.30 Emergency. (Mm) Dr Michelle Thornhill worries an older man might lose his independence after falling off a roof.
9.30 A+E After Dark. (Malm) A woman has a swollen and painful arm.
10.30 9News Late.
11.00 Resident Alien. (Malv)
11.50 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
12.40 Pointless. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGals) Hosted by Julia Morris and Robert Irwin. 9.00 The Graham Norton Show. Graham Norton is joined on the couch by Reese Witherspoon, Will Ferrell, Ariana Grande and Don Gilet.
10.10 10’s
7 February,
Antarctica more than penguins and icebergs
If travelling to Antarctica is high on the bucket list, and the one destination you yearn to visit, it is time to let the experts at Viking introduce you to this cultural and scenic land. Viking cruises are not only designed for those wanting to relax but also for those travellers seeking more interaction with the continent they are visiting.
Viking’s state-of-the-art expedition ships the Viking Octantis, and the Viking Polaris have been designed so guests can explore some of the world’s most pristine destinations in comfort and maximising viewing in these spectacular locations.
With more indoor and outdoor viewing areas than other expedition vessels and with floor-to-ceiling windows throughout, every light-filled space has been thoughtfully designed as a viewing platform.
No matter where you are on the ship, you’re as close as possible to the most magnificent scenery on earth.
The adventurer will have the opportunity to snowshoe through the magnificent polar landscapes, kayak in still, icy inlets, or take a Zodiac to observe majestic wildlife in their natural habitats and take comfort in knowing that all the gear needed for your excursions is provided.
Some may prefer to hop on to one of two military grade, twelve-seater ice strengthened aluminium, ocean-going Special Operations Boats built for exploration.
Guests are shielded from wind and waves from a flat, stable surface inside the ship and glideintothewatertoleaveontheirexcursion.
Also available and designed for professional use in the harshest of environments, Viking have a fleet of seventeen Zodiacs with fuel-efficient Yanmar Dtorque 111 engines reinforced throughout yet stable and comfortable for a day of exploration.
For those who want to be even closer to nature, Viking offer traditional tandem paddle kayaks which offer superb stability and a large, open cockpit for easy accessibility and are at home in the Arctic or Antarctica.
And the opportunity to view this truly spectacular region on Viking’s uniquely designed submarine which comfortably accommodates six guests and a pilot and offers an incomparable undersea experience
in one of a kind.
The revolving seats plus nearly 270 degree spherical windows offer an undistorted view in all directions for every guest.
Viking Science and Sustainability head Dr Damon Stanwell-Smith, a marine scientist, with an honour’s degree in Marine Biology is an expedition leader on expedition-cruise vessels in Antarctica.
“In my view, there is nowhere else on the planet that comes close to the feeling of going to polar regions,” he said.
“I personally have had the privilege of visiting many many places on earth but there is nowhere, but nowhere where you get the feeling when you arrive in complete wilderness. It is extraordinary.”
“The experience of engaging wildlife that has so little fear of humans, the feeling that yougetwithotherhumanswhenyouarethere.
When you are in a city of millions you can feel very isolated, it is the complete opposite when
you are in isolation, you feel very close to your fellow human. “
“So, it is both a human experience as well as one of engaging in the natural world. I would assert that no one going would return unchanged.”
“For Viking Expeditions, we are very excited about the partnerships that we have. We’ve been delighted at the positivity that has come from the academic institutions we have approached. They’re in different countries but the common theme is that they are the world leaders in their specific disciplines.
“Through these partnerships Viking guests will have an unprecedented opportunity. It is the new way to explore. It is an expeditionary experience that is like no other. It is a new way in which the private sector can engage with academic institutions, and most importantly it will have a profound effect on our guests.”
Onboard the ship enjoy the stunning
panoramic auditorium in the Aula, the world’s most advanced venue for learning at sea.
Inspired by the University of Oslo’s famed ceremonial hall where the Nobel Peace Prize was historically awarded, the Aula will offer a dynamic venue for lectures and entertainment, with floor-to-ceiling windows and 270-degree views.”
Adjacent to the Aula through sliding glass walls is the Finse Terrace, an outdoor lounge area with comfortable couches and warming lava rock ‘firepits’ perfect for panoramic views of the surroundings.
Together the two spaces can be combined to create an unmatched indoor-outdoor al fresco experience for guests to be immersed in nature.
Tofindoutmoreaboutthisremarkablecruise andhavetheprivilegeofjoiningaVikingCruise please visit www.viking.com or phone (AU) 138 747.
Can you picture yourself aboard the Viking’s state-of-the-art expedition ship, the Viking Octantis visiting Antarctica in 2025? It is a life changing experience. (Supplied Viking)
LEE MCCARTHY
The breathtaking vistas
Explore TV presenter, Trevor Cochrane, returned to the screen with Viking, Saturday, 1 February on Channel Nine showcasing the first of four episodes dedicated to Viking’s 13-day Antarctic Explorer voyage on board the award-winning ship, the Viking Octantis. Throughout February, Cochrane ventures where few others have been, taking viewers on a journey of otherworldly wildlife and breathtaking vistas that will leave an indelible mark on viewers.
Cochrane uncovers a land of paradoxes: the world’s biggest desert and world’s largest ice sheet belonging to no nation, which lay virtually unexplored until 150 years ago.
Viking ANZ Managing Director Michelle Black said they were pleased to welcome Cochrane and his team back.
“We are honoured to have Trevor travel for the seventh time with Viking and present our Antarctic Explorer voyage. Trevor and his team have brought to life the absolute best this exciting itinerary has to offer,” she said.
In the first episode, Cochrane began his journey in vibrant Buenos Aires, where he toured the gastronomic district of Palermo Soho, sampling empanadas, steak and Argentinean ice cream. He visited lively Caminito in La Boca for more local delicacies and performances, including Tango, before finally embarking on the Viking Octantis in Ushuaia.
The second episode sees Cochrane sail the infamous Drake Passage before setting eyes on the “White Continent” for the first time.
“There’s a significant amount of mystique associated with Antarctica, the purity of the landscape, the natural wonders, the rugged terrain and arduous journey to get there—I’m not sure what was top of mind, but all weighed in on my thoughts of what to expect—but what I actually experienced blew my mind,” Explore TV Presenter, Trevor Cochrane said.
Episode two continues with Cochrane kayaking through Antarctic waters, navigating icebergs and learning about sea ice. His first shore landing explores a historic hut at Damoy Point built by the British Antarctic Survey in 1975 with Viking Polar Expedition Leader, David McGonigal.
In the third episode, Cochrane introduces viewers to the onboard The Science Lab, where Viking guests learn from and participate with scientists in primary research. Trevor visits an Adelie penguin colony in Brown Bluff and the shipwreck of the Guvernøren, a whaling boat that caught fire during a staff party in 1915 near Enterprise Island.
Episode four begins with a submarine dive to the Southern Ocean floor and a Special Operations Boat (SOB) ride alongside a pod of humpback whales feeding before concluding the series with a visit to Astrolabe Island to view seals and chinstrap penguins.
“We rode on the SOBs to where we could see whales and the guide idled the boat. Bubbles started rising around the boat, which seemed fascinating and innocuous,” he said.
“But our experienced skipper knew. He
gently reversed the boat to ten metres away and told Lawrence, Explore TV’s director of photography, to change to a wide lens. We were in the middle of a feeding pod of 40-tonne humpback whales swimming deep underneath us, blowing bubbles in circles as they pushed krill upwards before bursting to the surface with mouths agape only a few metres from the boat.”
Tune into Explore TV on Channel Nine and 9NOW every Saturday for four weeks until 22
February at 4:30 pm AEDT, 5:30 pm AWST, for the chance to win a 13-day Antarctic Explorer voyage for two people, departing 14 November.
For further information on Viking Cruises please visit www.viking.com or call 138 747 (AU) or 0800 447 913 (NZ)
Entrants must be over the age of 18. Only one entry is permitted per valid email address. The promotion ends at 11:59 pm (AEDT) on 1 March.
Tune into Explore TV on Channel Nine and 9NOW Saturday to watch Trevor Cochrane explore Antarctica.
Viewers will be taken on a journey of otherworldly wildlife and breathtaking vistas as television presenter Trevor Cochrane travels aboard the Viking Octantis
Watch Explore TV presenter Trevor Cochrane, as he explores Antarctica on a Viking expedition.
LEE MCCARTHY
NOV-DEC 2025; JAN-FEB, DEC 2026; JAN-FEB 2027 From $19,195pp in Nordic Balcony
$23,195pp in Nordic Penthouse
ANTARCTICA & SOUTH GEORGIA ISLAND
Buenos Aires to Ushuaia
19 DAYS | 3 COUNTRIES
SET SAIL: FEB, NOV-DEC 2025; JAN-FEB, NOV 2026; MAR 2027
From $26,195pp in Nordic Balcony
From $39,195pp in Nordic Junior Suite
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.
or
|
SET SAIL: JUL, SEP 2025; 2026; JUN, SEP 2027
From $40,195pp in Nordic Balcony
From $56,195pp in Nordic Penthouse
New Expeditions Brochure
ICEBERG IN ANTARCTICA
Your itinerary
China’s Ancient Treasures, Luxury East Asia Voyage & Cherry Blossom Discovery.
23 Nights | 22 February 2026 | Prices fr $8,899pp
Witness China’s Terracotta Army and the Great Wall, cruise the highlights of the Philippines, Taiwan and Japan on Holland America Line’s Westerdam, and experience Mount Fuji in bloom.
Be swept away in China’s extraordinary ancient past during this all-encompassing trip. Follow in the footsteps of emperors in Beijing’s Forbidden City and Summer Palace, and see the Great Wall of China. Meet Xi’an’s 8,000 terracotta warriors, every one unique.
Fly to Hong Kong for a one-night stay before embarking Holland America Line’s elegant Westerdam. Be awed by Boracay’s powdery white-sand beaches before exploring vibrant Manila. From port in Keelung, discover Taipei, the bustling capital of Taiwan. Witness the tranquil beauty of Japan’s Ishigaki Island ahead of Osaka, home to sacred shrines and sushi dens. Disembarking in Tokyo for a two-night hotel stay, you’ll experience a full-day Mount Fuji tour.
In Xi’an, one of the birthplaces of Chinese civilisation, witness the astounding 8,000 life-sized sculptures of the Terracotta Army. Discovered by sheer chance in 1974 when a group of farmers were digging a well, the soldiers form part of the necropolis built for China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang in 210 BC.
Your holiday includes
Full-Board Cruise
14 night full-board cruise on board Westerdam
Visiting: Hong Kong, Puerto Princesa, Boracay, Manila, Kaohsiung, Keelung, Ishigaki Island, Naha, Osaka, Yokohama
Fully Escorted Tours
Temple of Heaven, Forbidden City and Tiananmen Square; Great Wall of China and Summer Palace; fast Train to Xi’an; Terracotta Warriors; complimentary tour of Mount Fuji including the Hakone
Holland America Line’s Westerdam is a superb ship for those looking for a leisurely pace of life at sea, yet with interesting activities, modern innovations, high-quality dining options, and contemporary entertainment venues.
Ropeway cable car; complimentary boat trip across Lake Ashi and complimentary high-speed bullet train to Tokyo
Hotel Stays
Five-star hotel stays in Beijing, Xi’an and Hong Kong
Four-star hotel stay in Tokyo
All Flights, Taxes and Transfers Overnight flight
Ishigaki Island, Naha, Osaka, Yokohama, Tokyo
Rods on full display
Many classic cars roared through Queenscliff over the weekend for the Queenscliff Rod Run. Independent photographer Ivan Kemp went down to Hesse Street on Saturday, February 1, to capture the rods as they revved past.
Kimmy Dean, Jason and Sam Cartledge (rear), Stephanie De Leeuw and Corey Cartledge had a prime position to watch the rods. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 454870
Melissa Farnham with a 1957 Chevrolet 4-door.
Rod Lakey with his 1951 Ford Mercury.
Mel and Mick Lirsch with their daughters Jorja and Brianna.
Putting for inclusivity at golf day
The genU Adventure team partnered with Golf Australia to run an all-abilities Golf Clinic for genU clients to kick of the Vic Open. Independent photographer Ivan Kemp went along to the event at 13th Beach Golf Club on Wednesday, February 5.
1/
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.
Free haircuts
Tuesday February 11, 10am-2.30pm, The Gordon East Campus, Boundary Road, East Geelong. (No kids cuts)
Belly dance classes
Beginner level, great exercise for mind and body, Tuesdays 1.30pm, $8, Life Activities Club- Geelong Inc (LACG INC), Belmont Park Pavillion, Barrabool Road, Belmont.
Glenys, 0400 214 897
Bellarine Country Music Group
Friday nights at Belmont Park Pavilion, music 7pm-10pm. Entry $12 all welcome.
Free Events at Ocean Grove Library
February 10 to 14 (various times) Go Green Screen – Library Lovers Day event. February 17 11am to noon 3D Basics. February 24, 9.30am to 2.30pm, Local and Family History - drop in session. February 26, 2pm to 3pm, Book Chat. February 27, 2pm to 3pm Digital Cyber Safety – staying safer online.
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 Road, East Geelong, Fridays 12.45pm, Vines Road Community Centre, Hamlyn Heights, Zoom group 7pm Tuesdays.
grow.org.au, or 1800 558 268
Grovedale Seniors
Indoor bowls Monday 1-3pm; gentle exercise Tuesday 9-9.45am; cards (Euchre) Tuesday 1-3pm; bingo Thursday 1-3pm. Grovedale Community Hub, 45 Heyers Road.
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, or 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 Road, 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.
Geelong and District Budgerigar Club
Annual Diploma and Unbroken Cap (baby birds) Show on Sunday, February 16, in the Hall of Agriculture at the Geelong Showgrounds, from 10.30am-2pm. This is a FREE event, and the public are most welcome. Karen, 0439 558 168
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 Road, 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 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, or 0406 666 737
Geelong Welsh Ladies Choir
Small ladies choir who require no knowledge of the Welsh language. Meet
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
Live music
Country Heartbeat Allstars every Friday 7pm-10pm, White Eagle House Polish Club, Fellmongers Road Breakwater. Walkups welcome. Proceeds to Sunny Days Rescue & Rehab. Entry $10.
Dawn 0417-148 493
Australian Decorative & Fine Arts Society Art lectures each month, Newcomb Hall, 10.15am. Evening lectures, Geelong West Town Hall, 6pm. February 12 lecturer is Kathleen Olive from Sydney. Topics ‘Renaissance Villas and Gardens’ (morning lecture) and ‘The Development of a Spanish Style’ (evening).
Search Facebook, program under Arts National-Adfas Geelong
Ballroom dance
Wednesdays 7pm at St Luke’s, Highton to help each other sing in Welsh and English. 0413 406 433, or 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 Street, Portarlington; and St Leonards, Thursdays at 9.30am, unit 2 1375-1377 Murradoc Road (on Blanche Street), St Leonards.
Ralph, 0431 458 100 (Ocean Grove), Rob, 5259 2290 (Portarlington), Lyn, 5292 2162 (St Leonards)
Geelong Scout Heritage Centre Meets third Sunday of the month, 56 Russell Street, Newtown, 10am-3pm. 0419 591 432, or geelong.heritage@scoutsvictoria.com.au
Dancer’s Club Geelong Ballroom dance weekly, Leopold Hall 7.30-10.30pm. 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, 2-4pm, $5 entry.
Val, 5251 3529
Belmont Combined Probus
First Monday of the month, 9.30am, Geelong RSL Function Room, 50 Barwon Heads Road. New members and visitors welcome
Sue, 0409 945 011, or probusclubofbelmont@outlook.com
Barwon Valley Belmont Probus
First Thursday of the month, 10am, Waurn Ponds Hotel.
Membership officer, 0407 333 263, or bobstafford@ozemail.com.au
Sports
Badminton: Corio Leisuretime Centre, Mondays 12.30-2.30pm. Beginners welcome.
Netball: YMCA Riversdale Road, Monday & Wednesday mornings, Thursday nights. Walking-netball also played. Umpire
Leopold Hall, Leopold Hall, 805-809 Bellarine Highway, Saturday February 8, 7.30-11pm, admission $10 including supper, music provided by Charles. Sunday February 9, 2pm-4pm, admission $5, please bring a small plate to share for afternoon tea, music Kevin.
0400 500 402
Hamlyn Heights Probus
Second Thursday of the month, 10am, Geelong Cement Bowls Club, 200 McCurdy Road, Herne Hill.
Noel, 0425 706 339
Geelong Central Probus Third Friday of the month, 9.45am, Geelong RSL.
geelcentprob@gmail.com
Newcomb Probus
Third Wednesday of each month, 10am, East Geelong Uniting Church, corner Boundary and Ormond Roads.
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 Road, 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, or Jan, 0407 296 958
Highton Seniors Carpet bowls, bingo, cards, taichi, line dancing, mahjong. Community Centre, 84 Barrabool Road, Highton.
Elma, 0411 065 524
Adfas Geelong Art lectures each month, morning and evening, Newcomb Hall, Wilsons Road.
adfas.org.au, or geelong@adfas.org.au
Cards
Wanted: card sharp partners to play the game of Bolivia on Thursday evenings. For venue email Ingrid.
griddlepop@hotmail.com
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every
from 1 to 9
appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal
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 Skin on the head (5)
4 Commonsensical (9)
9 Roof’s projecting edges (5)
10 Power cells (9)
11 Collusive syndicate (6)
12 Nullify (8)
14 Informal bulletin (10)
15 Capture (3)
17 Melody (3)
19 Sorcerers (10)
23 Soon (8)
24 Thief (6)
26 Large powerful sea monster (9)
27 Sun-dried brick (5)
28 Speaks to (9)
29 Finished (5)
DOWN
1 Offensive odour (6)
2 Unfavourable (7)
3 Own (7)
4 A precious stone (4)
5 Exercises (10)
6 Mistakenly (2,5)
7 Instruction (7)
8 Plastic unit containing audio or visual tape (8)
13 Linen (10)
16 Spanish headscarf (8)
18 Distant (7)
19 Hub for military planes (7)
20 Quarantine (7)
21 Forbidden (7)
22 Ally (6)
25 Singles (4)
In
3 Which James Bond actor starred in the 1988 film Taffin? 4 Ops, or Opis, was the ancient Roman goddess of what?
5 Which element comprises 71 per cent of the sun?
6 Which tropic runs through Paraguay?
7 In which European city was Erwin Schrödinger born in 1887?
8 Who did Betty White (pictured) play in The Golden Girls?
9 What Russian alcoholic drink is made from cereals and stale bread?
10 Shall We Tell the President? was written by which famous author?
No. 255
D-Max is at home among winners
By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
With utes accounting for more than one fifth of the 1.2 million vehicles sold in Australia last year, Isuzu has jumped on the Ford Ranger/ Toyota HiLux bandwagon with a seriously upgraded D-Max pick-up truck.
Thepick-upfinishedasthefourthbest-selling vehicle overall, as well as scoring third in the dominant one-tonne ute LCV segment
With major updates to technology, safety, interior and exterior design, 25 models cater for owners across the board from families to tradies and the odd tourist, the 2024 D-Max offers a choice of body styles, tray configurations and power trains.
The Japanese manufacturer says pricing remains competitive, with the D-Max SX single cab chassis 4×2 1.9 litre turbo-diesel manual at $32,990 drive away rising to the D-Max X-Terrain 3 litre turbo 4×4 at $67,990. Inbetweenisaselectionofvariantsincluding cab chassis/ute, manual or auto 4×2 or 4×4. Newly added is an X-Rider crew cab ute 3 litre auto 4×4 for $59,400. On test was the flagship 3 litre 4×4 auto at $67,990.
AllarecoveredbyIsuzu’ssix-year/150,000km warranty and up to seven years roadside assistance. A revised five-year/75,000km flat price servicing warranty has been introduced in response to customer and media feedback.
Styling
The D-Max X-Terrain weighs with a mix of muscle and contemporary design. Up front, the profile has taken on new bi-LED headlights and sharp body lines evolved from Isuzu’s signature horizontal bar grille.
Tying in with this redesigned grille, are a set ofnewtail-lights,whichwithhorizontalcreases expand the width of the tailgate. The grey
metallic aero sports bar has been redesigned, there are dark grey metallic sidesteps, mirrors, door and tailgate handles, roof rails, plus front and rear underbody spoilers and fender flares.
The X-Terrain is topped off with a matte black roller tonneau cover and the whole unit rollson18-inchalloywheelsinmattegreyshod with 265/60R18 Bridgestone 68411 HT tyres.
Aerodynamics are taken up by a pair of air curtains within the fog lamps, channelling airflow round the front wheels, together with
QUALITY CAR SERVICING
deflectors, sleek bodylines and reworked tailgate spoiler.
Interior
Forget the rough stuff, the crew cabin design, we are told, has more than a touch of the aesthetics of the Japanese art of Miura Origami paperfolding in the perforated leather-accented upholstery while melding creature comforts with occupant ergonomics and wireless connectivity.
The flagship X-Terrain adds signature red stitching throughout the cabin with dark grey and piano black appointments. Spokes of the steering wheel are trimmed in either matte silver, satin chrome or piano black, depending on grade.
The dual cab X-Terrain offers adequate leg-, head-, shoulder- and toe room for rear seat occupants. There are centre console-mounted air vents and USB-C ports, as well as a fold-down centre armrest with cupholders.
Infotainment
Addressing customer demands, a new 9-inch information touchscreen is the basis of new technologyintheX-TerrainsupportingUSB-C connectivity, voice recognition, DAB+ digital radio, and wired and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Also on hand in a new 7-inch muti-information display are more info on sat nav, ADAS setting controls and an additional 3AmP USB-C connection as well as tyre pressure and temperature figures.
Off-road enthusiasts can make use of an inclinometer and Terrain Command 4×4 modes now integrated in the system enabling the driver to access essential systems at a simple tap and swipe of the screen.
Engines/transmissions
There are two turbo-diesel engines, 4 2 and part-time 4 4, as well as six-speed manual and automatic transmission options. On test was the flagship 3 litre turbo-diesel 4×4 six-speed automatic.
Safety
D-MAX is already in possession of a five-star ANCAP safety rating under 2022 testing, the pick-up is waiting in the wings for a latest upgrade, which Isuzu is confident of passing withitsextensiveadditionstodriverassistance.
These include a new Gen4 stereo camera, plus upgrades to intelligent adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, rear cross-traffic braking, welcome headlight and welcome light functions which improve visibility and safety around the vehicle at night.
Eightairbagsincludedualfront, dual rear seat side, dual full length curtain, front knee and centre (far side).
Driving
Not a fan of sidesteps for their tendency to damage in hard going off road. However, together with sturdygrabhandles,theydomake climbing into a big off-roader more acceptable, especially if the D-Max owner is met with an exaltedviewfromthedriver’sseat.
Settling in some of the most comfortable seats in its class, D-Max passengers can have little to complain about. Font-seat padding is supportive and the X-Terrain’s eight-way power adjustment is easy to operate.
Whenthe3.0-litrefour-cylinderturbo-diesel of the test vehicle fired up there was more than a distant sound of the past from under the bonnet – for what the term ‘agricultural’ was coined.
Tap the accelerator and the D-Max has a particularly perky take-off – it’s easy to startle onlookers with a tyre squeal or two. The six-speed automatic transmission handled shifts smoothly, giving the driver an added layer of confidence. This is not the same for the lane-keeping, with systems varying in response. The system can be switched off manually.
Isuzuputsthecombinedurban/highwayfuel consumption at eight litres per 100 kilometres. The test X-Terrain recorded 10.4 litres per 100 kilometres in town and 6.4 litres per 100 kilometres on the open road. Towing is limited to 2800kg to 3500kg.
An optional suspension tuning unique to Australian roads, would not go a miss with those craving classy comfort, while off road is just the beginning for the D-Max X-Terrain, with impressive ground clearance of 240mm, and wading depth of up to 800mm, plus vital underbody protection.
Selectable dual-range 4WD, a rear differential lock and generous approach and departure angles make the D-Max one of the most capable units on the market.
Then, for the more adventurous, there are new improvements to Isuzu’s Rough Terrain Mode, an electronic off-road traction control aid that maximises torque transfer and driveability in slippery or rugged conditions.
Summary
The Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain Crew Cab, helped by a corner full of the latest technical and safety know-how, continues to duke it out with some of the best in the heavyweight ute division.
The Isuzu D-Max X-Terrain Crew Cab continues to duke it out with some of the best. (Pictures: Supplied)
Schmid takes cycling line honour
By Roger Vaughan, AAP
Playing cycling’s version of two-up, Mauro Schmid has won big at the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race after his bold gamble.
The reigning Swiss national champion scored the first win for the Australian Jayco AlUla team in the men’s race since the event started a decade ago.
Schmid and Australian teammate Chris Harper formed an outstanding one-two combination punch that ultimately floored their rivals in Sunday’s baking heat at Geelong. First,Harperwentclearofasmallbreakaway group by himself with 26 kilometres left in the 183.8 kilometre race. That meant Schmid could sit back in the main chase group and conserve energy.
Harper was caught inside 10km left, on the last of four ascents of the steep Challambra Crescent climb that is the key landmark of
this race.
Schmid, a pre-race favourite, surprised the rest of the front group moments later with his attack on a slight downhill.
Itwasamajorgamble,givenhehadtosurvive at least 7km to the finish and Schmid never led by more than about 10 seconds.
But once they hit the tricky 1.6km finishing straight along the Geelong waterfront, a stretch renowned for producing surprise results, Schmid’s odds shortened significantly.
Heheldontowinbythreeseconds,withNew Zealander Aaron Gate (XDS Astana) taking out the eight-rider sprint for second ahead of compatriot and defending champion Laurence Pithie (Red Bull Bora Hansgrohe).
Schmid’s tactics were forged from bitter experience, with the win coming two years after he was also the solo leader and caught just 300 metre from the finish at Geelong.
“Chris, on the front - he did an amazing
ride. He was also a big part of this win, because I could just sit back and when we caught him on the last climb, I knew ‘now is the moment’,”
Schmid said.
“It was a big help to have Chris up there. To win this race is special.”
Gate and Pithie were pleased with their podium finishes, noting Schmid’s tactic took courage.
“There was definitely a lack of cohesion, everyone tries to rely on each other. You have to gamble for these wins - so I was definitely gambling, big-time,” Pithie said.
“Everyone was gambling; Mauro won.”
After fellow Swiss Noemi Ruegg won the women’s Tour Down Under this month, Schmid also proved a smart off-season can have the Europeans ready for the early-season Australian heat.
“He was in phenomenal form, which we saw alloflastweekinDownUnder.Hatsofftohim,
Torquay too strong at Ocean Grove
Visiting side Torquay took all 16 points when they defeated Ocean Grove 2 by 62 shots to 50 on Tuesday February 4. Independent photographer Ivan Kemp saw all the action.
he deserved the win,” Gate said. “Heshowedthathehadthenousandalsothe legs to do it.”
Apart from the obvious breakthrough win, this was a significant result for Jayco AlUla. They had worked hard at last week’s Tour Down Under, but were left frustrated and scored no big results.
At times, their tactics were questionable. On Sunday, they were faultless.
“It was definitely not easy for us, especially losing Plappy for this race,” Schmid said.scored no big results.
At times, their tactics were questionable. On Sunday, they were faultless.
They also lost Luke Plapp to wrist surgery on Friday. Along with him being one of the key favourites, his absence also left them a rider short as the temperature hit the high 30s.
“It was definitely not easy for us, especially losing Plappy for this race,” Schmid said.
Wollaston proves she is a quick learner
A poor start to the season has proved fuel to the fire for Ally Wollaston’s masterclass at the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race.
The New Zealand cycling star outsprinted a class front group to take out Saturday’s 142.4 kilometre race that started and finished in Geelong.
On a day tailor-made for fast finishers such as Wollaston, Dutch rider Daniek Hengeveld won with a solo break that caught the sprinters’ teams napping.
Wollaston proved she is much more than just a sprinter, sticking with the leaders in the two ascents of the tough Challambra Hill climb that dominates the Cadel Evans race.
She bided her time as the front group of 14 lined up for the finish and timed her kick perfectly for a convincing win. It is Wollaston’s first victory at WorldTour level since taking out stage one of last year’s Tour Down Under and follows her win on Wednesday at the Surf Coast classic, a preamble for Saturday.
“It could have gone one of two wayswe could have taken it really badly and been fed up, pissed off about the result. But the team really took it in our stride,” WollastonsaidoftheTourDownUnder.
“Communication in the team has been really good since then.
“It was definitely fuel for the fire.
“We made a few mistakes in South Australia ... It made us hungrier this week. We were all really motivated.”
Dutch rider Karlijn Swinkels (UAE) was second and Swiss Noemi Ruegg (EF Education Oatly) took third after winning the Tour Down Under.
American star Chloe Dygert (Canyon Sram) was another pre-race favourite and finished fourth, while Amanda Spratt (Lidl Trek) was the only Australian in the front group and finished 13th.
On the last climb up Challambra, with about 10km left, Wollaston knew she had a big chance when she stayed with Dygert.
“I wouldn’t actually say super-comfortable - it was really hard. But to make it over Challambra the second time, on Dygert’s wheel, I knew I was in with a good shot,” she said.
Ian Donald leads off for Ocean Grove.
Gary Burkett concentrates on his line, and below left, Paul French plays for position.
Rodney Swan tries to disrupt the head.
Above: Joe Russell skippers his team to win this end by 5 for a great start to the match.
Left: Brian Calthorpe puts Torquay into a great position.
Right: Adele Ryan leads the way for Ocean Grove.
(Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 454854
Cobras fire, steady start for Cats
Independent photographer Ivan Kemp caught all the action on Saturday February 1 as Lara dug in for 191 against Murgheboluc in GCA 2, while in BPCA A2 Collendina made 231 against Newcomb.
Left: Inam Ullah bowled well, taking 2/30 off 8 overs. Centre: Corey Walter is beaten by this delivery from Naichese Lovett. Right: Skipper Nathan Frye drives down the wicket. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 454865
Shane Healey appeals and Jack Wood is out LBW for 30 runs.
Naichese Lovett bowled took 3/86 off 26 overs, and right, Abhishek Sharma took 2/31.
Corey Walter continued his good form making 97 runs.
Robert Sodomaco top scored with 87 for Lara, and right, Daniel Grozdanovski (0/21) in action.
Above: Tom Barter in his follow through. Below: Jason Hewitt drives through covers.
Jason Hewitt (67) plays defensively.
Summer pennant action heats up as finals loom
LOCAL TENNIS
Donna Schoenmaekers
It was a perfect day for the resumption of Tennis Geelong’s summer pennants, and with the countdown to finals restarted the competition is hot as the weather, especially in Section 4 Mixed where all 7 teams are still in finals contention.
Ladder leaders Newcomb had the bye this week, and with only eight points to Lara in fifth, results would determine whether they would stay there.
Drysdale closed part of the gap between them and a finals spot when they travelled to Lara and secured a 4-2 win. Lara started well, winning the first set 6-2, but retired in the second set. From there Drysdale won the men’s and women’s doubles, and secured the fourth mixed to win the day.
It was derby day for Western Heights with thirdplacedRedtakingonBlueatLunanPark. With only one point separating the teams and bragging rights on the line, competition was
bothfierceandfriendlywithsmashingvolleys, spinner serves and great rallies all highlights of the day.
The teams were even after the first mixed sets, with each team taking one set 6-2. It was still neck and neck after the doubles as Red took the women’s 6-2 while Blue the men’s 6-1. The reverse mixed would determine the day’s winner and ladder positions.
It was Blue that made the most of their chances, winning both sets 7-5 and 6-2, with Shaun Howard helping his team over the line winning his three sets in the 4-2 victory.
The win moved Blue to within one point of Newcomb, and will make their round 13 clash one to watch.
With all teams being so close, Wandana Heights moved themselves from fifth to third, despitehavingtheclosestwinofthedayagainst Bannockburn. Banno’s dad and daughter combo, Melissa and Brendan Gillett, battled hard to win the first mixed in a tie-break, while spouses Melissa and Craig Smith had an easier time in the second winning 6-0.
The doubles were decided in a similar fashion with Banno winning the women’s 6-4 and Wandana the men’s 6-1. The reverse mixed also went one each way, but Wandana’s eight game lead was too big for Banno to overcome, giving Wandana the win on games and putting them within five points of top spot.
Walter falls just short
By Matt Hewson
Collendina made a strong start at home against Newcomb as the side seeks to solidify a spot in the final four of the BCPA A2 ladder. After Newcomb won the toss and elected to bowl the Cobras posted 6/231 in the first innings of the two-day contest.
Collendina opener Corey Walter, who has been in fine form all season, batted through 68 overs of the Cobras’ 75-over innings before losing his wicket just three runs short of a century.
Jackson de Jong also scored well for the home side, joining Walter in the 54th over and seeing out the innings unbeaten on 48.
Newcomb’s Naichese Lovett put in a hard-working shift, taking three wickets for 86 - including that of Walter - from 26 overs, while opening bowler Abhishek Sharma also took 2/31.
Cobras skipper Nathan Frye said he was very happy with his side’s performance.
“It’s probably the best we’ve done all year in terms of keeping partnerships going throughout the day,” Frye said.
“And on a very slow outfield, I think 230 is probably worth 270 or so at a different venue.”
Frye praised stalwart Walter, who was named captain of the BPCA Team of the Decade in 2020, saying Lovett made things tough for the batters all day.
“Naichese bowled a lot of overs right through the middle of the game, just bowling tight and quick overs,” he said.
“(He bowls) some darts, stump to stump sort of stuff that makes you play pretty much every ball, and he can be quite difficult to get away.
“So it’s really good to have somebody (like Walter) with that much experience and class at the top of the order to steady things the whole way through.”
Collendina have undergone something of a changing of the guard this season, with seven young players joining the ranks and losing a number of veterans from the team that competed in last year’s grand final.
Frye said Jack Wood “did well” on debut, batting at number three and making 30, while Wood’s fellow debutant Byron Hansford will get his chance this Saturday with the ball.
“We’ve had to ask a bit more of the young blokes, especially with the bat… but we’re pretty confident in what we bring to the table with the experience we got last year,” he said.
SURF COAST will hope to return to the winners’ circle after bowling out Winchelsea for 128 at Eastern Reserve. William Liddle led the attack, taking a spectacular 7/36 from 13.4 overs to give the Suns the advantage in the third-last game of the home and away season. Rowan Ferguson was Winch’s top scorer with 31 runs.
WALLINGTON made it hard going for St Leonards after winning the toss and electing to bowl. The Wallabies showed why they occupy second spot on the ladder, bowling out the home side for 10/167 in 51 overs. Mitchell Sleeman (3/26) and Billy Gravett (3/43) were the top bowlers, while Jack Jeffrey made 30 runs for St Leonards.
PORTARLINGTON made 10/208 away against Inverleigh, just enough to challenge a side that has not lost a match since round seven. Aaron Toole high scored with 55 for Port, while David Peel and Locke Perrett both claimed three wickets for the Kookaburras.
At the end of the round things are tighter than they started with only 17 points between all teams and six points between first and fifth - with the wrinkle of Western Heights Uniting Red, Lara and Drysdale still to have their second bye.
Top of the table clash
Skipper Daniel Weigl is confident Lara can “get the job done” this week at King Lloyd Reserve against Murgheboluc after posting a tally of 191 runs on Saturday.
After Inam Ulla (230) took the early wickets of opener Kaden Marum (1) and first drop Peter Herrick (8) and put the score at 2/20, Robert Sodomaco (85) and Jason Hewitt (67) dug in to add another 140 runs before their partnership ended in the 54th over.
Murgheboluc spinner Owen Dunipace ripped through the rest of the Lara batting order, taking 6/22 to end the Cats’ innings 20 overs later. Jason Grozdanovski also contributed with the ball with figures of 2/58.
Weigl said while his side, who have an unassailable lead at the top of the GCA 2 ladder, could have ended the innings stronger against their nearest rival, they performed well overall given the conditions.
“We did well for the first 60 overs and then let ourselves down a little bit, but at the same time when the ball got soft and theirspinnerstookpaceofftheballitwas quite difficult to score, quite difficult to get in on,” he said.
“Noonethrewtheirwicketaway,itwas just a combination of good bowling and tougher scoring conditions that meant the day ended where it did.
“That being said, I think if we bowl well we’ll be okay.”
Weigl said Sodomaco and Hewitt did wellafterUlla’searlystrikeswiththenew ball.
“Bothofthemdidareallygoodjoband did as we planned,” he said.
“Especially Jason, opening the batting coming up from the twos in the last couple weeks, we got a pretty good contribution from him.”
The Cats will look to exploit those same conditions this Saturday.
“I’m very confident, if the wicket is the same next week as it was this week I really back our spinners to do a good job and make it difficult,” Weigl said.
“I think their (Murgheboluc’s) scores (at home) probably reflect that as well. There haven’t been too many scores over 200 there.”
Matt Hewson
Wandana Heights and Bannockburn players Rohan Perrott (WH), Wendy Castle (WH), Mel Smith (WH), Craig Smith (WH), Annie Walsh (WH), Brendan Gillett (B), Scarlett Gillett (B), Clare Hardy (B), Melissa Gillett (B) and Peter Kohl (B). (Supplied)
Corey Walter drove Collendina to a solid total against Newcomb. (Ivan Kemp) 454865_05
