Easter fun around the region
Little kids and big kids alike across Greater Geelong are getting ready to enjoy a long weekend full of family, fun and, of course, chocolate.
Aside from the joy of easter egg hunts at home on Easter Sunday morning, community events are happening around the region all weekend.
The National Wool Museum’s Easter Scavenger Hunt, taking place daily between 10am and 5pm, challenges kids and their parents to search through museum galleries to find clues, crack the code and unlock their bag of Easter treats.
Trains are also on the agenda, with both the Portarlington Miniature Railway and the Bellarine Railway offering rides, chocolate and perhaps a meeting with the Easter Bunny.
For families taking the opportunity to get away for the weekend, Victoria State Emergency Services’ Driver Reviver program is offering fatigued drivers across the state free tea, coffee and biscuits to help break up long journeys and stay safe on the roads.
Top pollies big statements
By Matt Hewson
Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles has stated Labor would not negotiate with the Greens, while Liberal Senator for Victoria SarahHendersonsaidtheCoalitionwould“axe free TAFE”.
The remarks from two of Geelong’s most senior federal politicians came on Monday morning at a Geelong Chamber of Commerce event aimed at giving local businesses insight into the effects of the major parties’ policies on Geelong businesses.
Ms Henderson said there was “no doubt” the Coalition was “the underdog”.
“We’ve got a very large mountain to climb, but we are determined to get there… we’re working hard to win because we think this is a sliding doors moment for this nation,” she said.
“The prospects of a minority Labor-Greens-Teals government are pretty frightening. We have quite an extreme left government at the moment; Anthony Albanese is no Bob Hawke.”
Mr Marles said Labor aimed to form a majority government.
“One point we’ve made really clearly… is we won’t be doing any deal with the Greens, we’ve ruled that out,” he said.
Regarding industry diversification and job creation, Mr Marles said the best way to ensure a skilled workforce was “more university places” and “a whole lot more people coming through TAFE with trade qualifications.”
“With the free TAFE measures that we put in place, which has seen 600,000 Australians take up the opportunity… we’ve made clear that there will be an ongoing commitment to
TAFE,” he said. “That really matters for The Gordon… (and) in terms of generating the skilled workforce that will ultimately supply that diversification of our economy.”
Ms Henderson said “governments don’t create jobs, businesses do”, and that a Coalition government would “axe free TAFE”.
“We love The Gordon, it’s a very important part of our community, but the free TAFE policy so far has cost this country $1.5 billion,” she said.
Ms Henderson claimed the free TAFE graduation rate was only 13 per cent, although Victorian statistics from 2019 to 2024 show a figure of 52 per cent.
Mr Marles highlighted manufacturing opportunities in the region, “particularly in the defence industry”.
“That’s really high-tech manufacturing,
and that is the space in which our country… and Geelong will need to be if we’re to see manufacturing take place in our nation,” he said.
“Wehaveseentheunlockingofinvestmentin renewable energy and there is the opportunity for us to be something of a hub… particularly in relation to wind, both onshore and offshore.”
Ms Henderson said “this ‘renewables only’ madness is madness” and Australia needed “affordable, reliable power”.
“That’s why we’ve taken a very big decision to impose a gas reservation policy, because we cannot run out of gas,” she said. Mr Marles said the Coalition’s gas reservation plan had been “criticised by economists across the country”.
Ms Henderson also raised the issue of rail connectivity to the Avalon employment precinct, which has stalled under Labor.
Two-year-old Oscar is ready for the Easter Bunny to visit this weekend. (Ivan Kemp) 472152_02
Discussions for ailing square
Market Square’s owner has met with members of Geelong’s local and federal government representatives to discuss the ailing site’s future.
Mayor Stretch Kontelj, City chief executive AliWastieandDeputyPrimeMinisterRichard Marles met with Phil Wong from Davinski Nominees and Lurline Lett from Knight Frank this week.
The meeting was a “productive and very positive conversation” that “enabled everyone to exchange views about the future of Market Square”, according to a City of Greater Geelong
‘‘ Redeveloping the iconic Market Square precinct is an essential element to revitalising the CBD in Geelong ’’ - Richard Marles
statement on Friday.
Mayor Kontelj said revitalising central Geelong was a priority.
“When I ran to be mayor, I flagged central Geelong’s revitalisation as a key issue of mine, which is why I’m getting on with getting all the stakeholders together so we can move on this,”
Mayor Kontelj said.
“I first worked with Phil Wong in 1998, so this meeting was a great opportunity to get reacquainted.
“Mr Wong has indicated to me that the time isnowrighttomoveonthis,andheisconfident we can work together.
“I want to thank Mr Wong, Davinski Nominees, Knight Frank and Richard Marles
A quacking good time in Barwon Heads
Witness the Barwon River’s ‘yellow waterfall’ as thousands of ducks fall from the footbridge this Easter Saturday.
Rotary Club of Ocean Grove will host the 23rd Great Barwon River Duck Race on April 19, with more than 2000 yellow ducks racing along the Barwon River to the Ozone Jetty. Organiser and ‘mother duck’ Heather Willson said the event would also feature many dressed-up corporate ducks and blue kids’ ducks competing along the river.
“The rotary club run it, so we give all the proceedstolocalcharities...andwehadalmost $30,000 to give away last year,” she said.
“We’re hoping for good weather, but that could change at any minute. The race varies in time because of the tides, and we must be careful not to get the wrong tide.
“The interesting part is that the tide probably has less influence than the wind. One year, we had a howling gale, and the ducks went straight over to one side and beached themselves.
“Last year, we sold virtually all the ducks, which is quite a lot. We had 2000 yellow ducks, 350 blue ducks, and about 40 corporate ducks, each decorated by a company.
“The best part is watching the yellow ducks
fall from the footbridge. The bags sit on top of the footbridge, and, when I blow the horn, they all tip off and it’s like a great big yellow waterfall. It’s quite spectacular.”
The event will begin with the Corporate Duck race at 11am, followed by the Quacker Kids race at 11.15am before the yellow ducks are launched from the Barwon Heads footbridge at 11.30am.
Kids, adults and corporate ducks are still available. Visit trybooking.com/events/ landing/1364254 for more information.
Jena Carr
for their time and I look forward to the next meeting.”
Member for Corio Richard Marles said Market Square was an important part of CBD revitalisation.
“Redeveloping the iconic Market Square precinct is an essential element to revitalising the CBD in Geelong,” Mr Marles said.
“I’m very pleased that both parties are committed to developing the site, which will further enhance our beautiful city.”
Another meeting is planned between all parties.
New AI app for jobseekers
Localnot-for-profitserviceprovidergenU has partnered with Australian developer Getmee to launch an AI-powered app to help jobseekers.
The genU Training AI app offers personalised coaching aimed at improving interview skills, professional communicationandbuildingconfidence.
The app uses AI to identify a user’s individual progress, providing tips and advice to help them improve in key areas.
Chief executive of genU Clare Amies hailedthelaunchasamajorgamechanger for jobseekers and employment service providers.
“genU Training AI will take training and employment outcomes to a whole new level, with this unique app and its exciting features,” Ms Amies said.
“This smart solution will deliver benefits for jobseekers and employment service providers, through enabling a more inclusive, supportive, and effective recruitment process.
“Theappisaccessibleanduser-friendly, making it an ideal resource for anyone looking to enhance their employability and learn at their own pace in their own time.”
The app, which includes support for people from linguistically diverse backgrounds, is free for genU’s Training U for Work students.
Nikki Noack, genU Training general manager, said the new app would augment genU staff members’ support of students.
“As users grow their skills, this will help remove a large part of the stress behind preparing for a job interview, and they will have less anxiety during interviews,” Ms Noack said.
“We will strike a balance between this exciting AI to enhance the job seeker journey, while still maintaining the important human connection and engagement that remains paramount for success and achieving positive outcomes.”
Visit genutraining.org.au/program/ genu-training-ai to download the app or find out more.
Grants available for Surf Coast Shire climate projects
SurfCoastShireCouncilisofferingindividuals and organisations a leg up in their efforts to address the climate emergency.
The Shire’s Climate Emergency Grants are nowopenforexpressionsofinterestfromthose looking to develop climate action projects.
The grants program is now in its fourth year, with $20,000 available for project ideas in $5000 or $10,000 sums.
Last year’s grants helped enable the School for Climate, a collaboration between Common
Ground Project and Lorne P-12 College that has seen all the school’s students learn about regenerative and sustainable farming practices.
Common Ground’s Lachlan Mackenzie said the project wouldn’t have been possible without the grant.
“This program has not only introduced the school children to regenerative farming but we have found previously disengaged kids are engaged again and loving learning about
farming”, Mr Mackenzie said.
Surf Coast Shire councillor Libby Stapleton said the grants were a way for the council to help the community take advantage of opportunities to engage in climate action.
“Our community is passionate about taking climate action, and we know small projects can help deliver big changes over time,” Cr Stapleton said.
“After the initial expression of interest process, the projects are then opened to
community voting to determine who receives the grants.”
While project ideas can take many forms, they must reduce emissions, build resilience to our changing climate and mobilise the community to act.
Exressions of interest are open until Sunday, May 11, with community voting taking place between Monday, May 26 and Wednesday, June 4. Visit surfcoast.vic.gov.au/cegrants for more information.
Mother Duck (Heather Willson) and Plucka Duck (aka Lisa Hanley). (Ivan Kemp) 471823_08
Carving out a message
The Rip Curl Pro is helping discourage young people from using a phone while driving on land and water.
The World Surf League event at Bells Beach, fromFriday,April18,toMonday,April28,will feature the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) campaign highlighting the dangers of distracted driving.
TAC chief executive Tracey Slatter said the campaign compared texting while surfing and the dangers of phone use while driving.
“We know that mobile phone distractions are a major contributor to road trauma and this new campaign is a unique and engaging
way of reminding people of the dangers,” she said.
“Driving is a complex task that requires our full attention, so the best way to avoid being distracted by our phones is to put them away altogether or activate the ‘Do Not Disturb While Driving’ function.”
According to TAC research, young people were more likely to use their phones while driving, with 55 per cent of 18–25-year-olds and 66 per cent of 26–39-year-olds admitting to the behaviours.
Surfing Victoria chief executive Adam Robertson said surfers regularly travelled to
beaches on the state’s regional road network, with higher rates of fatal and serious injury crashes.
“We are proud to partner with the TAC and help spread road safety messages to surfers and surf fans across the state,” he said.
“We know that surfers spend a lot of time driving searching for waves. This campaign will help drive awareness of the risks of distracted driving.”
TAC’s presence at the Rip Curl Pro will include an interactive activity where participants attempt to play a video game while being challenged with distractions.
Grants open for library
Residents can help establish more Library of Things within the Surf Coast Shire with one-off grants now available. Grants of up to $20,000 to establish and run a Surf Coast Library of Things will run until May 11 to allow people to borrow household items like tools, party supplies or sewing equipment.
Councillor Libby Stapleton said the initiative would mean fewer items ended up in landfills and that she would love to hear residents’ ideas on what would work for the community.
“Thisideawasfirstsuggestedtocouncil by a group of local residents about four years ago and is something we hope our community will really get behind,” she said.“I encourage anyone interested in applying for this grant to get in touch with council officers who can discuss your idea to ensure it is eligible and help answer any questions.
“With the current cost of living crisis, this initiative will help households avoid additional expenses by borrowing items they only need to use occasionally rather than having to buy them.
“The great news is that we are completely open to all Library of Things proposals that meet the grant guidelines such as an online or shop model, a new initiative or an add-on to an existing facility.”
A Library of Things aims to drive a circular economy, avoid waste, keep resources in use, reduce unnecessary consumption, enable skills sharing and development and create a more connected community.
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
Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant, Surfing Victoria ambassador Ange Ball and chief executive Adam Robertson, with TAC head of road safety Sam Cockfield. (Supplied)
Recognising Kate’s service
By Jena Carr
A Leopold woman has received a National Emergency Medal for her service to the community during the 2019/2020 bushfires. Leopold Fire Bridgae member Kate Conway worked at Country Fire Authority’s headquarters in Burwood during the major fire event that broke out across Victoria and New South Wales.
Ms Conway also filled support roles in the State Control Centre and Incident Control Centre in Northern Victoria. She said she was
“pretty chuffed” and “really proud” to receive the award.
“It’s (the fire event) opened up a range of different skill sets and knowledge groups that I didn’t know I had and it’s a huge part of my lifenow,”shesaid.“Ireallyliketheopportunity to do something that not everyone else gets to doandsimultaneouslyhelpyourcommunityat the same time.
“Thecontinuoustrustandacknowledgement from the community is what makes me feel the proudest. The medal is a nice thing to receive, but I didn’t do it thinking I could get one.”
Ms Conway said emergency services were an important part of her life as she also worked as a paramedic for Ambulance Victoria in regional Western Victoria.
“What I like most about working with the Leopold Fire Bridge is how dynamic it is, all the different skills that you get to learn and the people you can do it with,” she said.
“For complete strangers to call this generic number for help, and you’re the one that ends up delivering that help and to be trusted by a community to do the right thing, is a really big honour.”
Rotary art to brighten Easter
Hundreds of artworks and photos will line the walls of Christian College’s music, sports and performing arts centre this Easter weekend.
Bellarine North Rotary Club will host the 46th Bellarine North Rotary Easter Expo at Drysdale’s 40 Collins Street location from 10am to 4pm on Saturday, April 19, and Sunday, April 20.
President Ken Withers said the expo showcased works from many styles across the state and would feature displays by the Bellarine Camera Club and the Festival of Glass.
“We love seeing people coming through the door and I like looking at the art myself too,” he said. “We have about 230 paintings and about 80 photos op on display... We also have about $7000 worth of prizes for the artists.
“It is important for us to put on a show for the community, and we want as many peopleaspossibletocomealongandlook at the art show.
“It also gives the opportunity for artists to display their work, and we raise money for the club that goes towards our programs,soourclubputsabout$40,000 a year mainly into the local community.”
MemberforBellarineAlisonMarchant will officially open the event on Saturday, with the artworks judged by Queenscliff Gallery’s Soula and Theo Mantalvanos.
BellarineNorthRotaryClubhasraised close to $350,000 over 46 years through the event, which goes towards initiatives that help make a real difference in the community.
Jena Carr
RESORT STYLE FACILITIES
AsaresidentofArmstrong Green,yourhomeextends beyondyourfrontdoor.The resort-styleclubhouseoffers luxuriousamenities,ensuring residentsenjoyanenviable retirementlifestyle.Callour SalesSpecialiststodayto arrangeatourofthevillage.
Kate Conway, middle, receiving a National Emergency Medal by CFA chief officer Jason Heffernan and board chair Jo Plummer. (Supplied)
Lighting up Winchelsea
The future looks brighter for Winchelsea Bowls Club, with new lighting that helps members participate in night competitions and training.
The completed $151,157 sports lighting installation project will allow the club’s grounds to be illuminated by 100 lux LED lighting from four new 13.5-metre towers.
Parliamentary Secretary for Community Sport Michaela Settle said the region deserved modern sporting facilities that its residents could be proud of. “Better sport and recreation facilities make it easier for Victorians to get involved in local sport and recreation and lead healthy and active lifestyles,” she said.
Appeal home completed
Building and construction of Geelong’s 2025 Good Friday Appeal Home is finished and will go to auction on Good Friday.
More than 100 tradies and suppliers gathered at the home at Mount Duneed on Tuesday, many seeing the finished product for the first time.
Brought together for a big breakfast by Henley Homes and Villawood Properties, the group reunited as a community of volunteers who contributed their skills, time and materials to something far more meaningful than a standard build.
Set to go under the hammer this Friday
in a no-reserve auction, the stunning family home will see every dollar raised go directly to The Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal, supporting life-saving care for sick children and their families.
“This is the moment many of our trades and suppliers get to stop, look around and take in what they have built,” general manager marketing Henley, Tindi Sorbera said.
“There is a sense of quiet pride, of mateship and shared commitment. It is not only about this amazing construction, but also about contribution. When you talk to the volunteer tradies and supplies, you can feel how much
it means to be part of something that helps change children’s lives.”
The home is the Juno 442-D48 by Henley, a double-storey design with four bedrooms, a theatre, wine room, retreat and expansive living and alfresco zones and is fully furnished.
“These tradies and suppliers give their time and talent so generously, never asking for anything in return,” Villawood Properties chief executive Alan Miller said.
The no-reserve auction will be held on Friday April 18 at 19 Electric Crescent, Mount Duneed at 2pm.
“The new lighting is a real boon for local bowls, providing the club the opportunity to welcome more players and take the local game to the next level.”
Winchelsea Bowls Club president Andrew Doyle said it was great to see the upgrades following club leaders approaching Surf Coast Shire Council with the project concept in November 2022. “We look forward to further improvements as we continue growing the game in Winchelsea,” he said.
“The club’s success off the green with this project complements the success we have had on the green winning six premierships in different divisions in the past four years.”
Surf Coast Shire mayor Mike Bodsworth said the new lighting would allow residents to play lawn bowls at any time of the day or night.
Park P side Lucas, Lucas
Lakeside Lara, Lara
Spri Sp ngside, e Beveridge
Above: Royal Children’s Hospital Appeal ambassador Scarlett Dickson (right) with mum Sasha and Henley Homes Mark Glenn and Villawood Properties Rory Costelloe.
Left: The finished 2025 Good Friday Appeal Home will go to auction on Good Friday in Mount Duneed.
(Pictures: Justin Flynn)
MY GEELONG
Barwon Health cancer nurse specialist Linda Woodford is Barwon Health Foundation and Ceres Life’s newest ambassador. The Geelong West woman speaks with Jena Carr about what she loves about where she lives and what it means to work across the same wards where her mother was cared for before dying from cancer.
What do you love most about where you live?
I live in Geelong West, and I’ve lived here for 30-plus years. I’m in a historic home, and I live opposite a park. I’m also just a short walk to the waterfront and the vibrancy of Pakington Street.
My kids went to the local primary school and high schools, and I love the sense of community that Geelong has. It’s an amazing place to live.
Whereisyourfavouriteplacetospendtime?
There’s so much about my life, where I live and what I do to find a specific spot I love the most. I have three children, who have partners, and two grandchildren, so I love spending time with them.
I also love travelling, going on adventures, working, and spending time with my friends.
I live a very fortunate life.
Is there anything that you would change about where you live?
I’m really fortunate, and there is not too much that I would change.
Whatdoyoulovemostaboutbeingacancer specialist nurse at Barwon Health?
I love the work I do as a cancer specialist nurse at the Geelong Hospital, and I work with an amazing team of people who are amazing, caring, kind and inclusive.
It’s been a beautiful fit for me as I can
build relationships with my patients while hopefully making a difference and working with such an incredibly dedicated and capable team.
I hope to make a difference for patients, and I experienced the care that my colleagues gave my mother, which was comforting during the difficult time. She truly felt like she was a queen.
How does being a Barwon Health Foundation and Ceries Life ambassador feel?
I am so privileged to have been asked to do this. Initially, they wanted both my mother and me to do it together, but she passed away beforehand.
The Barwon Health Foundation provides funds to support people in need in the region, and that money makes a big difference to the patients I look after.
There’s such a dedicated and beautiful team at the Barwon Health Foundation. I have fundraised before for cancer services, and they’re just so committed and dedicated to making a difference.
What is something that people might not know about you?
I love to travel, and I’ve been fortunate to do a lot of travel. One thing I am very proud of is that two years ago, I was in the Cross Egypt Challenge, where I rode a motorbike 2900km around Egypt.
Barwon Health Foundation and Ceres Life ambassador and cancer nurse specialist Linda Woodford. (Monika Berry)
ENTERTAINMENT
Step back in time to Canyon
By Matt Hewson
Sell-out show Songs from the Canyon comes to Geelong for the first time since its inception in 2022.
Featuring renowned Australian singers and musicians such as Husky Gawenda, Dan Kelly, Charm of Finches, Hannah Cameron, Stephen GradyandDanChallis,SongsfromtheCanyon is centred around the music that emerged from counterculture hotspot Laurel Canyon in Los Angeles during the 60s and 70s.
From Joni Mitchell, Crosby, Stills & Nash and Carole King to the Beach Boys, the Byrds andtheMamas&thePapas,theshowhearkens back to a golden age where vocal harmonies reigned and music had the power to change the world.
Gawenda, the show’s musical director as well as performer, has toured the world with his band Husky, opened for artists such as Neil Young and won international songwriting competitions.
He said performing Songs from the Canyon alongside his fellow artists was a “transcendent experience”.
“I’ve never had an experience like this before performing,” he said. “There are some songs where all seven of us are singing together at once… I’m surrounded by these incredible singers,we’resingingsomeofthebestharmony songs ever written in these beautiful theatres… it’s an experience beyond words.
“And I really feel that reflected from the audience, too. I can feel that they’re having that same experience.”
Gawenda said from the beginning Song from the Canyon’s central premise was an “ambitious enterprise”, given the quality of the artists whose material made up the show.
“They are some of the greatest songs of all time, performed by some of the greatest singers and musicians of all time,” he said.
“The voices, the harmonies, are always at the fore, and that’s probably the most challenging part of the show… so a lot of work goes into that.
“Before we started, I was not sure that we’d be able to do it, but I wasn’t prepared to do it unless we were really doing these songs and artists justice.”
Songs from the Canyon is at Geelong Arts Centre on Thursday, April 24. Visit geelongartscentre.org.au for tickets or more information.
Man, I feel like a woman
It’s up to Geelong to decide the queen of country music as ‘Man, I Feel Like A Woman’ coming to the city next month.
Amber Joy Poulton will perform hits from Shania Twain, Linda Ronstadt, Tammy WynetteandOliviaNewton-Johnfrom7.30pm at the Geelong Arts Centre on May 1. Ambersaidherjobwastoshinealightonthe careers, songs and life stories of musical icons to her band, The Governing Bodies, to induct one of them to the fictitious Queens of Country Music Hall of Fame.
“I’m just so proud of them and what they were able to achieve in their own lifetimes, careers, and genres with their personal drama’s going on in their lives,” she said.
“The show’s got both the tongue in the cheek (feel) that we love as well as a great respect for these women in music and it all comes down to
Share your ideas to help us plan for the future of our outdoor public places.
HAVE YOUR SAY ABOUT OUR PARKS, STREETS AND PUBLIC PLACES
We’re committed to providing a park and street network that is enjoyable, sustainable, equitable, accessible and safe for all residents and visitors to enjoy.
Over the next 17 years, Greater Geelong's population will grow from 289,000 to over 400,000 people. At the same time there are challenges that will impact the future of our outdoor public spaces, such as housing targets, land use changes, and climate change.
We’re preparing two strategies that will guide how we plan and manage City-owned and managed parks, streets and public places: the Public Realm Strategy and the Open Space Strategy.
The public realm is the public space around and between buildings and includes streets, laneways and public plazas.
Open spaces are the green spaces for recreation and enjoyment, and these include parks, gardens, reserves, waterways and linear trails.
We need your input so we can ensure these strategies align with community values, needs and priorities.
Scan the QR code or visit geelong.link/PublicSpaces2 to learn more and have your say by 5.00pm on Monday 12 May.
TRAFFIC CHANGES
If you are travelling around the below locations on Friday 25 April, scan the QR code or visit geelong.link/ANZAC2 for detailed information regarding changed traffic conditions.
ANZAC Day
›Various times in Geelong, Drysdale, Portarlington, Ocean Grove, Barwon Heads and Norlane.
a vote from the audience.”
Viewers can sing along to favourites like ‘Just One Look’, ‘Stand By Your Man’, ‘If You’re Not In It For Love’, and of course, ‘Man, I Feel Like A Woman’.
Amber said she had “a lot of enjoyment” and an “immense amount of admiration” in performing hits by the powerhouse women.
“Getting out there on stage when their worlds were sometimes, falling apart is so brave and such a triumph for women in music,” she said.
“Once all the beans are spilt, the audience get to vote with the power of their applause who their favourite queen is. So far, it’s been different in all the towns we’ve toured.”
Visit Geelong Arts Centre’s website for tickets.
Jena Carr
HAVE YOUR SAY
Domestic Animal Management Plan 2026-29
We’d like to hear from you about the role domestic pets play in our broader community, as part of the development of our next Domestic Animal Management Plan.
We want to hear from everyone who enjoys our public spaces. Walkers, park lovers, cyclists, dog lovers, cat lovers, runners, wildlife warriors, animal workers … the lot. Your feedback helps us accurately identify animal-related issues, benefits, topics the community needs more education on, and how we can better serve you.
Scan the QR code or visit geelong.link/DAMP2 to have your say by 5.00pm on Sunday 20 April.
MEETINGS
Council meeting
The next Council meeting will be held on Tuesday 22 April at the Council Conference and Reception Centre, City Hall, 57 Little Malop Street, Geelong at 6.00pm (doors open 5.45pm).
Reports for consideration include: ›Youth Council First Report 2025 ›Endorse for Exhibition Proposed 2025-26 to 2028-29 Budget
›Draft Rainbow Action Plan 2025-29. For full details of the agenda, and to watch the Council meeting visit geelong.link/Council Meetings2
Questions and submissions must be provided in writing by 12.00pm on Monday 21 April via the web page above.
Planning Committee meeting
The next meeting of the Planning Committee will be held at the Council Conference and Reception Centre, City Hall, 57 Little Malop Street, Geelong on Thursday 24 April at 6.00pm.
Item to be discussed is:
›Planning Permit Application PP-74-2024
- Buildings and works associated with the construction of three storey apartment building containing 21 dwellings, reduction in visitor carparking and alterations of access to a transport road Zone 2.
For more information, scan the QR code or visit geelong.link/ PlanningCommittee2
Songs from the Canyon comes to Geelong Arts Centre this weekend. (Supplied)
Amber Joy Poulton will perform hits from four female country music greats. (Supplied)
Remember our Diggers
Anzac Day services and ceremonies will be held on April 25. It was 110 years ago (1915) that our brave ANZAC sons landed at Gallipoli in an event that has gone onto shape Australia and its people.
Anglesea
• Dawn service at War Memorial, Cameron Park, Anglesea, 5.30am, followed by a gunfire breakfast.
• March and service at Anglesea Memorial Hall, McMillan Street, 9.30am for 9.50am step off, followed by a commemorative service at the Cenotaph, 30 Murray Street.
Bannockburn
Dawn service at Bannockburn War Memorial, 12 High Street, Bannockburn, 6am.
Barwon Heads
Ocean Grove Barwon Heads RSL sub-branch service at 9am, Barwon Heads Community Hall, Hitchcock Ave. March at 8.30am for assembly with step off 8.45am sharp. March participants are to form up at 8.30am on the corner of Hitchcock Ave and Bridge Road. All are then welcome back to the Ocean Grove Barwon Heads RSL at the Ocean Grove Bowling Club for refreshments.
Drysdale
Drysdale RSL sub-branch commemoration service at the Cenotaph, High Street Drysdale. Begins with a march at 10.50am from the corner of Eversly and Princess Streets, along PrincessStreettodisperseattheCFAforecourt. at 10.50am.
Inverleigh
March and major service at Inverleigh War Memorial, Hamilton Highway and Railway Street, Inverleigh, supported by the 8/7 Royal Victorian Regiment, 9am.
Geelong
• Pre-dawn service at Johnstone Park, 4.15am.
• Dawn service at Eastern Beach, 6am.
• BoerWarMemorialdawnServiceatBoerWar Memorial Park, Latrobe Terrace, 6.30am.
• Gunfire breakfast at Geelong RSL at 7.30am.
• Wreath laying at Geelong RSL cenotaph, 9am.
• March at Malop Street, 11am.
• Main service at Johnstone Park, 11.30am.
Lara Lara RSL sub-branch dawn service, 6am at 2 Rennie Street, Lara. After the service there is a gunfire breakfast and at 12.30pm, a barbecue and music.
Norlane
Norlane RSL sub-branch dawn service at 6am, 51 Plume Street, Norlane. March step-off 9.30am.
Ocean Grove Ocean Grove Barwon Heads RSL sub-branch dawn service at Ocean Grove Park at 6am. Tea and light ‘gunfire breakfast’ at the old fire station building, corner of Hodgson Street and The Avenue at the conclusion of the service. Service at 10am Friday, the Cenotaph, Ocean Grove Park. The march begins at 9.30am. March participants are to form up at 9.30am in frontoftheCommonwealthBank,TheTerrace.
Portarlington and St Leonards
Portarlington RSL sub-branch dawn service at Cenotaph at 6.30am. Service at St Leonards Memorial hall at 9am. March at 10.45am commencing from the RSL clubrooms on Harding Street and concluding at the Portarlington Cenotaph for a commemorative and wreath laying service.
Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale
• Queenscliff Point Lonsdale RSL sub-branch dawn service, 5.45am at Ocean View carpark, Hesse Street, Queenscliff.
• March and service, 9am at the Cenotaph, Kirk Road, Point Lonsdale.
• March and service, 11am at Fort Queenscliff.
Teesdale
Service at Teesdale War Memorial, Bannockburn-Shelford Road, Teesdale, 7am.
Torquay
Dawn service at Point Danger at 5.45am.
Tribute to our Anzacs
City Hall will be illuminated on Anzac Day to commemorate the 110th anniversary of the landing of ANZAC troops at Gallipoli.
Launching with an early showing to coincide with the Dawn Service in Johnstone Park and again from dusk to 11.30pm (until Sunday 27 April), the free art program will tell the moving story of the Anzacs, featuring powerful symbols of sacrifice, and remembering the soldiers who lost their lives.
Soldiers and nurses during WWI and sculptures by Peter Corlett OAM including Matron Grace Wilson and Private Ted Kenna VC will all be showcased.
The projections include First Nations soldiers who enlisted during WWI, but whose service and stories are still largely unknown.
The WWI honour roll and the involvement of women and volunteer troops will also be explored.
Photography, historical images, paintings and monuments were brought together by projection artists, Ian de Gruchy and Olaf Meyer and produced by Multimedia Events.
In addition to the special Australian Navy objects on display, Cats and Dogs All at Sea at the National Wool Museum is also honouring our ANZAC diggers with a behind the scenes tour of objects from WW1 and WW2 called ‘Up Close withtheCollection:IntheAnzacSpirit.’
On Tuesday 22 April, attendees can get a close look at a range of blankets made at the Returned Soldiers and Sailors Mill, uniforms, pattern books and historical photographs. Bookings are essential to experience the ANZAC spirit woven into the wool industry’s rich history. Find out about this tour and what else is happening this ANZAC Day at geelong.link/ANZAC2
Geelong paramedic James dives to the depths
Geelong Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance (MICA) paramedic James Cini is a freediver, which involves diving underwater with a single breath, pushing yourself to go as deep or as long as you can before surfacing.
He has held his breath underwater for five and a half minutes, reached a depth of 58 metres, swam alongside an array of marine life including tuna, dolphins and seals, and explored a WWII wreck.
James developed an interest in freediving after growing up around Anglesea and Aireys Inlet, spending plenty of time spearfishing and snorkelling with his dad and older brothers.
“Freediving is like hiking but your path is limitless, and your surroundings are 360 degrees of the underwater world,” he said.
“The freedom of interacting with marine life and disconnecting from the noise of everyday life is incredible – it’s like a form of underwater meditation.
“Freediving forces mindfulness: you have to focusonyourbreathingandyourformtomove effortlessly.”
In his spare time, James now not only dives himself, but teaches freediving in Queenscliff.
“I became an instructor because I wanted to show off our incredible coastline,” he said.
“I would often have conversations with my friends and students who thought the only place worth diving was the Great Barrier Reef.
“In actual fact, the diversity of marine life on our coastline is richer than tropical climates.
“I get a real buzz seeing freedivers become transfixed when they see something truly incredible.”
James is passionate about his home region of Victoria’s surf coast and was able to begin his career with Ambulance Victoria (AV) in Anglesea.
He joined in 2010 as an Ambulance Community Officer (ACO) – a First Responder employed on a casual basis to work on-call and trained to provide advanced first aid in rural and remote communities.
“I really enjoyed the role, especially being able to work in the community I grew up in,” he said.
“The paramedics I worked with were a big inspiration and I developed a keen interest in anatomy and physiology. I was also drawn to the dynamic nature of the job – working outdoors and never knowing what the day would bring. It was a role that kept me on my toes and always learning.”
Since his ACO days, James has become a qualified paramedic and recently completed
his MICA internship, to become a qualified MICA paramedic.
“I’ve always had a passion for learning and challenging myself,” he said.
“I noticed there were instances where I had reached the limits of my Advanced Life Support (ALS) scope of practice and felt like I couldn’t provide the level of care that the patients required.
“That experience highlighted a knowledge gap for me, and I felt the need to do more, to learn more.
“That inspired me to pursue MICA training, so that I can deliver the highest level of care that I am capable of.
“It’s an amazing job, and I’m grateful every day to wear the uniform, work with such great people, and help the community in such a dynamic and challenging environment.”
James said it is important to him to have an outlet, to allow him to bring his best self to work.
“Having a hobby outside of work, like freediving, is so important for mental health and overall well-being,” he said.
“After a busy week, diving into the water is the perfect way to disconnect and be fully present.”
Paramedics regularly face high-stress situations and James said freediving has helped him develop mental composure.
“Freediving is all about controlling your reactions when you’re underwater, holding your breath, and staying calm despite your body’s natural urge to rush to the surface,” he said.
“It teaches you to stay in the present moment and avoid panic, which is crucial in emergency
Members of the regiment 8/7 RVR in last year’s mid-morning Geelong march. (Ivan Kemp) 401013_04
James Cini is a Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance paramedic. (Pictures: Supplied)
James Cini has reached a depth of 58 metres while freediving.
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We will remember them
Each year on Anzac Day we come together to pay solemn tribute to the courage, mateship, and sacrifice of those who have served our country in wars, conflicts, and peacekeeping missions.
We remember the Gallipoli landing where more than 8000 Australian and New Zealand soldiers lost their lives, but where Anzac resilienceforgedalegacywhichstillresonates today, more than a century later.
Each year we are challenged to reflect anew on the cost of freedom, and the values for which our nation and its servicemen and women have paid so great a price. Here in Geelong, the Peace Memorial in
Johnstone Park stands as a proud testament to our predecessors’ spirit of service and love for their country. It bears the names of 3500 local heroes, including many who fought at Gallipoli.
This Anzac Day, I will attend events at Terang, Camperdown and Noorat. I hope you too may be able to take part this year.
Those who do know it is not a duty or an obligation, but a rewarding experience, a welcome opportunity to step back from the minutiae of our everyday lives and to reflect, with gratitude, on the sacrifice others have made for our enduring benefit.
Respect in Anglesea
Hundreds of residents will come together in Anglesea next Friday to pay respects to the brave men and women that served their country.
Veterans, serving personnel, and descendants of those who served will proudly walkthestreetsofAngleseatohonorthefallen and acknowledge the ongoing contributions of current service members.
Close to 800 people gathered along McMillan Street to watch the march and service last year, with many community members expected to attend this year’s commemorative day.
Anglesea Returned and Services League secretary Angela Hunt said she expected about 80 community members to attend the
dawn reflection and close to 600 people to participate in the march.
Ms Hunt said this years’ service also recognised the life of a WWII veteran who will be celebrating his 100th birthday in November.
“The veteran will be in attendance on the day, which is always nice to see... Everybody likes to know that there are still a few of them around,” she said. “Our Anzac Day is a bit different than other services and we are very much community minded. The kids will sing along with Rob Brady. It’s a lovely morning.” The significant community occasion will honour, courage and sacrifice of the service men and women, while providing time for reflection, remembrance, and unity.
Colonel Tim Grutzner and Neil Darr at last year’s Anglesea Anzac Day service.
Member for Western Victoria Bev McArthur will be attending Anzac Day services as she always does. (Pictures: Supplied)
least we forget
25th APRIL
4:15am: Pre Dawn Service
Johnstone Park
6:00am: Dawn Service Eastern Beach
6:30am: Boer War Memorial Kilgour Street
7:30am: Gunfire Breakfast Geelong RSL
9:00am: Wreath Laying Geelong RSL Cenotaph
11:00am: March Malop Street
11:30am: Main Service
Johnstone Park
50 Barwon Heads Road, Belmont 5249 2444
Living with a brain injury
Leopold’s Kirsten Macdonald recently won the international Literary Titan Book Award for her second poetry collection, Orphic Wonder. Jena Carr speaks with the poet and mother about her book and experience living with an acquired brain injury.
Kirsten Macdonald, 48, is a fun-loving mother and poet, but what many people may not see is a person living with an acquired brain injury.
In 2012, the Leopold woman underwent a craniotomy, which is the surgical removal of part of the skull, to treat a life-threatening aneurysm (abnormal swelling or bulge in a blood vessel wall) in her brain.
“I remember going in that morning and laying on the gurney and one of them were testing out the medical equipment and they started up the saw,” she said.
“It hadn’t occurred to me until that moment that I was actually going to have my head cut open. All I wanted to do was jump out of that bed... It was like a horror movie to think of somebody doing that.
“Despite all that, I came out of surgery okay. Therearesomepeoplethatgoinandhavethese types of surgeries that come out as a completely different person or don’t come out at all.”
Following the surgery, Kirsten had to go through intensive rehabilitation to learn to walk again and adapt to a world without her sight.
“I do have a weird way of looking at things. I remember thinking, ‘I’ve never been blind before. This will be interesting’ and I decided to go with it and see what happens,” she said.
“I had to learn how to make a coffee in the morning without burning myself, make my kids breakfast, and feel my way around.
“Within about five days, my hearing became almost bionic. It doesn’t happen to everyone that’s blind, but it can happen.
‘‘ Extreme life events can crack open something in us. It’s scary, it’s uninvited, but it can also lead to profound transformation and deeper understanding ’’
- Kirsten Macdonald
“I could hear a conversation down the other end of the ward. My husband took me for a walk one day around the block on my little walker, and I heard a mouse.
“I felt like Spiderman with these spidey senses, so no one could creep up on you and it was fascinating as it took away all the visual information.”
Kirsten’svisionwouldreturnsuddenlyabout five months later, but her challenges were not over when a second aneurysm was discovered in 2015.
“The idea of not seeing my kids smile was really hard and it was amazing that I got to see that again. My life’s never going to be the same again because it all feels different,” she said.
“I craved colour. I didn’t know you could crave colour, and I remember that when I got my vision back, I went for a walk to Ocean Grove beach and took in the sunrise.
“A couple of years later, I went in to do a regular scan, and this big aneurysm was there, which was inoperable.
“They gave me three days to decide what to do as doctors had this brand-new surgery that they could do. So, through your arteries, they could put a little stent up through your heart into your brain.
“It was very risky, but doctors said that if I didn’t do that, they didn’t expect me to make it to Christmas. I’ve got three kids, so that was a hard decision to make.
“The surgery went ahead, and I was home within a few days... but doctors came back and said that the surgery didn’t work and that there was nothing more they could do: go and enjoy (what time was left).
“They didn’t know how much time I had; it could be tomorrow or five years. That was in
2015, and I am still here. What’s happened since then is that the aneurysm started to stabilise a little bit.
“That doesn’t mean I have less of a chance of a rupture, but I’ve defied the odds before, and I’ve been very blessed.”
Ten years later, Kirsten has released two poetry collections under the pen name KB Eliza, with her second book, Orphic Wonder, receiving the international Literary Titan Book Award.
The award acknowledges writers who push the boundaries of language, expression and form, and Kirsten said she was shocked to be honoured in that way.
“There is an element of bravery to writing poetry, but it’s also powerful, as there could be somebody out there with whom it resonates and impacts in some way,” she said.
“What I love about it the most is how to express something in a way that’s not normally expressed and find the words to convey what the heart is feeling.
“When the first book came out, I didn’t tell anybody about it. Only three or four people knew that I was doing it, and I just loved the concept of being anonymous.”
Kirsten said that one of the hardest poems to write, which is featured in her latest book, was called ‘The Postman is a Stranger’ and detailed the value people held in beauty.
“Before I went into surgery, I was a size eight with really long red hair, but afterwards, I was on different medications and stuff like that, and I was blind, so I couldn’t see myself,” she said.
“The next time I saw myself when my vision just turned on, I was about a size 16 with no hair, but my body was healing, which was the main thing.
“My postie came to the door one day, and when I answered the door, he asked, ‘Where’s Kirsten?’. I said, ‘It’s me’, and he was like, ‘Oh my God, what happened to you?’.
“I just remember feeling like someone had punched me, and it was interesting how many people were affected by what I looked like.
“That really opened my eyes to how much people value beauty, normal brains and all that stuff. It might sound silly, but in a lot of ways it was a blessing because I got to walk in all these different shoes.”
Kirsten said she has been very lucky as she has been able to see her three kids grow up,
with one of them getting married and having kids of their own.
“We all carry a responsibility to make the world more accessible - but being neurodiverse or not fully able-bodied is not ‘less than’,” she said.
“Living with an acquired brain injury has since become a part of my neurodiverse journey,offeringbothprofoundchallengesand unexpected insights.
“Extreme life events can crack open something in us. It’s scary, it’s uninvited, but it can also lead to profound transformation and deeper understanding.
“In my experience, people with neurodiverse minds and a different ability often offer refreshing, original perspectives that challenge the status quo in brilliant ways.
“What really seems to be resonating with readers, and has been reflected in the literary award, are themes around women’s lived experiences, neurodiversity, and challenging the beauty myth.
“These are the threads I’m most passionate about weaving through my work. I’d love to see the stigma around neurodiversity and disability softened, if not erased altogether.”
Leopold poet Kirsten Macdonald. (Supplied)
The Guide
WILLIAM AND HARRY: THE
SBS, Friday, 7.30pm
It was October 2019 when the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Harry and Meghan, on tour in Africa, revealed not all was well in royal ranks. So, what makes a prince want to leave his kingdom to live a literal ocean away? Princes William and Harry (both pictured) were once supportive siblings who endured the utmost tragedy while under intense media pressure. Now, they no longer speak, live on different continents and seemingly want nothing to do with each other. Drawing on hundreds of unseen photos, eyewitness accounts and expert analysis, this documentary reveals how the seeds for this estrangement were sown even before the death of Princess Diana.
BLUEY’S BIG PLAY ABC Family, Sunday, 7.30pm
When it comes to Bluey, one thing’s certain: kids and grown-ups alike cannot get enough. The adorable Brisbane-based blue heeler and her family’s adventures are always in high demand. While we have to wait for new animated escapades (a feature film is in the works, coming out next year), this theatrical production brings the magic of Blueyto the stage –“for real life”, as Bingo would put it. Featuring brilliantly crafted, human-sized puppets and the voices we all know and love, Bluey’s BigPlaysees dad Bandit (Dave McCormack) desperate for a bit of time out on his phone. However, Bluey and Bingo have other plans, pulling out all their old tricks to get him to play with them instead.
Friday, April 18
ABC TV (2) SBS (3)
FARMER WANTS A WIFE
Seven, Monday, 7.30pm
For many, life on the land is a dream. Without the stress of traffic, noisy neighbours or urban pollution, rural residents can be self-sustainable, breathe fresher air and even see the stars at night. It’s often an idyllic existence, but can also be an isolating experience for those seeking romance. Stepping back into her role as country Cupid for this 15th season, Natalie Gruzlewski is bringing together a group of four new farmers on a quest to find a lifelong connection. Tonight, sparks fly as Tom, Corey, Thomas and Jarrad (pictured, from left) take their first steps toward lasting love in a speed-dating bonanza.
Seven, Tuesday, 9.05pm
Inspired by the true story of Italian doctor Pierdante Piccioni, this new medical drama follows the recovery of Dr Amy Larsen (Emmy nominee Molly Parker, pictured), who loses her memory of the past eight years after sustaining head injuries in a serious car crash. With no recollection of the patients she’s treated, the colleagues she mistreated or the tragedy that ended her marriage and caused her to push everyone away, the former Chief of Internal Medicine is rebuilding her life from the bottom up: returning to work as an intern while trying to put together the pieces of her personal life. Piccioni’s real-life brain injury caused him to change his character and become a kinder person –with the chance to start afresh, can Dr Larsen do the same?
SEVEN (6, 7)
NINE (8, 9) 6.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 7.00 News Breakfast. 9.30 The Cook And The Chef. (R) 10.00 Planet America. (R) 10.30 The Pacific. (R) 11.00 ANZAC Battlefields. (PG) 12.00
ABC News At Noon. 12.30 The Cook And The Chef. (R) 1.00 Unforgotten. (Mal, R) 2.00 Restoration Australia. (R) 3.00 Back Roads. (R) 3.30 Grand Designs New Zealand. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6am Morning Programs. 11.00 Food Markets. (PGaw, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Destination Flavour. (R) 2.10 The Holy Grail Mystery. (Ma, R) 2.55 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 Destination Flavour. (R) 3.40 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.45 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 Mystery Of The Loch Ness Monster. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 6.00 Sunrise. 10.00 Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 12.30 Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal. (PG) Coverage of the Good Friday Appeal. 3.00 Football. AFL. Round 6. North Melbourne v Carlton.
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia. Millie Ross makes a holiday herb basket.
8.30 Sherwood. (Malv) The Sparrows are forced to join the Bransons on their revenge mission, and must act quickly.
9.30 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PG, R) A satirical news program.
10.00 Fresh Blood: Westerners. (Mlv, R) A painter explores the world of arts panels.
10.30 Father Brown. (PGav, R)
11.20 Mayfair Witches. (MA15+a, R)
12.10 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)
5.00 Rage. (PG)
5.50 Paddington. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 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 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.25 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.50 Robot Wars. 9.50 Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament Of Houses. 10.35 Late Programs.
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 William And Harry: The Unseen Photos. (Premiere, M) Looks at the lives of princes Harry and William. 9.15 Scotland’s Scenic Railways: Strathspey Steam Railway. (R) A look at Highland Mainline railway.
10.10 SBS World News Late.
10.40 A Body That Works. (Ml) 11.40 Romulus. (Masv, R)
1.40 Agent Hamilton. (MA15+v, R) 3.20 Could Hitler Have Been Stopped? (PGav, R) 4.15 Bamay. (PG, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Royal Children’s Hospital Good Friday Appeal. (PG) Coverage of the annual Good Friday Appeal to help raise funds for The Royal Children’s Hospital. 11.30 GetOn Extra. Lizzie Jelfs, Matt Hill, Simon Marshall and Brent Zerafa dive headlong into the weekend’s best racing. 12.00 The Black Donnellys. (Mdsv) Sean loses his health cover.
1.00 Travel Oz. (PG, R) A look at holiday destinations.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.
5.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs.
TEN (5, 10)
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Learning To Love. (2023, G) Ina Barrón. 2.00 Pointless. (PG) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 5.00 Tipping Point Australia. (PG, R) Hosted by Todd Woodbridge.
6.00 9News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 7. Dolphins v Melbourne Storm.
9.55 Golden Point. A wrap-up of the Dolphins versus Melbourne Storm match, with NRL news and analysis.
10.45 MOVIE: John Wick. (2014, MA15+lv, R) An ex-hit man comes out of retirement. Keanu Reeves, Willem Dafoe.
12.40 Tipping Point. (PG, R) Hosted by Ben Shephard.
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)
ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.00 The Nanny. 9.00 Bewitched. 9.30 I Dream
Magic. 8.40 Spartakus. 9.40 The World According To Grandpa. 9.50 Chums. 10.00 Great Parks Of Africa. 10.50 News. 11.00 Going Places. Noon MOVIE: Enter The Dragon. (1973) 1.50 Skate Or
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.
6.30 The Project. The hosts and guest panellists take a look at the day’s news, events and hot topics.
7.30 Airborne: Nature In Our Skies: Love In The Air. (PGa) Takes a look at how rivals fight for love, from amorous acrobatics to seduction by scent.
8.40 The Graham Norton Show. (Ml, R) Celebrity guests include Zoë Saldaña, Selena Gomez, Miranda Hart and Ncuti Gatwa. 11.00 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news.
12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted by Stephen Colbert.
DOC
PICK OF THE WEEK
Saturday, April 19
ABC TV (2) SBS (3)
SEVEN (6, 7)
NINE (8, 9) 6.00 Rage Charts. (PG) 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. (PG) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Death In Paradise. (Final, Mv, R) 1.30 Darby And Joan. (Mad, R) 2.15 Extraordinary Escapes. (PG, R) 3.00 Megafauna: What Killed Australia’s Giants? (PG, R) 3.50 A Life In Ten Pictures. (PGa, R) 4.45 Creative Types With Virginia Trioli. (Ml, R) 5.10 Landline. (R) 5.40 Australian Story. (R)
6.10 Father Brown. (PGav) Father Brown investigates murder at a food fayre.
6.55 Federal Election Announcement. (R) An election announcement. 7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.
7.30 MOVIE: Made In Dagenham. (2010, Ml, R) Female workers at a car plant walk out in protest against sexual discrimination and pay inequality. Sally Hawkins, Bob Hoskins.
9.20 Midsomer Murders. (Mv, R) The body of a wealthy landowner goes missing on the night of his death, exposing a web of secrets.
10.50 Unforgotten. (Mal, R) Mel and Asif are taken into custody.
11.40 Boat Story. (MA15+v, R) Janet and Samuel plot their next move.
12.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
6am Morning Programs. 11.00 BBC News At Ten. 11.30 ABC World News Tonight. 12.00 PBS News. 1.00 Motor Racing. Bathurst 6 Hour. Qualifying. 3.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Roubaix. Women’s Race. Highlights. 4.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Paris-Roubaix. Men’s Race. Highlights. 5.00 Going Places. (PGa, R) 5.30 Venice: Building Beauty From A Swamp. (Premiere)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Wonders Of Europe: The Tower Of London. (PG) A historical chronicle of the iconic Tower of London, famous for the Crown Jewels and its ravens.
9.30 Stanley Tucci: Searching For Italy: Bologna. (Maw, R) Actor Stanley Tucci heads to Bologna, home to the largest number of protected food products in Italy.
10.20 Great Coastal Railway Journeys: Morpeth To Amble. (PGaw, R) Michael Portillo leaves Newcastle.
11.20 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Ma, R) Follows a team of Baltimore detectives.
3.50 Bamay. (R)
4.50 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize. (R)
4.55 Poh & Co. Bitesize. (R)
5.15 France 24 Feature.
5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am WorldWatch.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. All Aged Stakes Day, Mornington Cup and WATC Derby Day. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) Narrated by Grant Bowler.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Americas: The Frozen North. (PG) In the frozen north, wolves and polar bears vie for food, hares outsmart lynx and walrus sing on rocky shores.
8.00 MOVIE: Twister. (1996, PGalv, R)
Two meteorologists on the brink of divorce are forced to work together after they are caught in a severe storm. Helen Hunt, Bill Paxton, Cary Elwes.
10.20 MOVIE: Anna. (2019, MA15+av, R)
A young woman unleashes incredible strength and skill to become a feared government assassin. Sasha Luss, Helen Mirren.
12.50 The Black Donnellys. (Mdsv, R) Tommy is asked to host a wake at the Firecracker.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 It’s Academic. (R)
5.00 My Greek Odyssey. (PGln, R)
7TWO (62, 72) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.05pm PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.15 Bluey. 6.25 Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Rocket Club. 7.20 Bluey. 7.30 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. 8.10 Harry Potter: Hogwarts Tournament Of Houses. 8.55 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.35 Speechless. 10.00 Officially Amazing. 10.25 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)
NITV (34)
6am Morning Programs. 9.50 Chums. 10.00 MOVIE: Selkie. (2000, PG) 11.35 MOVIE: The Witches. (2020) 1.30pm Great Parks Of Africa. 2.20 Nula. 2.50 Songlines. 3.30 The First Inventors. 4.30 Tradition On A Plate. 5.00 Shepherdess. 5.30 The Barber. 6.00 The Last Land: Gespe’gewa’gi. 6.30 News. 6.40 The Other Side. 7.30 Alone Australia. 8.30 MOVIE: Dark Age. (1987, MA15+) 10.10 Roberta Flack. 11.40 Late Programs.
10.00 The Movie Show. 12.05pm Bad Education Reunion Special. 1.00 Dating’s Dangerous Secrets. 1.50 Beyond Oak Island. 3.30 News. 3.35 WorldWatch. 5.35 Over The Black Dot. 6.05 Our Law. 6.40 Engineering Tomorrow. (Final) 7.35 Impossible Engineering. 8.30 MOVIE: Silverado. (1985, M) 11.00 MOVIE: Romantic Comedy. (2019, MA15+) 12.25am Late Programs. 6am Home Shopping. 8.30 Travel Oz.
6am The Movie Show. 6.15 RBG. (2018, PG) 8.05 Ride On. (2023, PG, Mandarin) 10.25 Wild Target. (2010, M) 12.15pm Gold. (2016, M) 2.30 Rabbit-Proof Fence. (2002, PG) 4.15 Hum Do Hamare Do. (2021, PG, Hindi) 6.35 Funny Face. (1957) 8.30 Larry Crowne. (2011, M) 10.20 99 Moons. (2022, MA15+, Swiss German) 12.30am Late Programs. 5.50 Hum Do Hamare Do. (2021, PG, Hindi)
Sunday, April 20
ABC TV (2) SBS (3)
6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Insiders. 10.30 The World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Songs Of Praise. (PG) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 2.30 Easter Vigil. 5.00 Restoration Australia: Orange Edwardian. (PG, R)
6.00 DW English News. 6.30 Al Jazeera News. 7.00 APAC Weekly. 7.30 France 24 English News. 8.00 DD India News Hour. 9.00 Incredible Homes. (PGal, R) 10.00 Lap Of Luxury: Escapes Down Under. (R) 10.30 PBS Washington Week With The Atlantic. 10.55 Ascot Kayaking. (PG, R) 11.00 Motor Racing. Bathurst 6 Hour. Race. 5.30 Rediscovering Venice. (PGa)
7MATE (64, 73)
And Joan. (Final, PGad) Jack and Joan race to clear his name.
8.15 Unforgotten. (Final, Ml) Jess and Sunny get the truth.
9.05 Boat Story. (Final, MA15+v) The final face off with The Tailor ensues.
10.05 MOVIE: Ten Canoes. (2006, Mnv, R) Crusoe Kurddal.
11.35 You Can’t Ask That. (Mls, R) 12.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.05 Ask The Doctor. (R)
3.35 Outback Ringer. (PG, R) 4.05 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.05 Easter In Australia. (PG, R)
6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Ancient Empires. (Mav) Looks at the story of Cleopatra. 9.05 Secret Lebanon: The Treasures Of Byblos. (PG) Looks at Byblos, an ancient city of Lebanon, after a team of archaeologists opened a new site in an unexplored area. 10.10 Mayhem: Secret Lives Of Georgian Kings: George III Mad Or Misunderstood? (Ma, R) Takes a look at George III. 11.05 Rebel With A Cause: Oodgeroo Noonuccal. (Ma, R) 12.05 48 Hours To Victory. (PG, R)
2.55 Britain’s Great Outdoors. (PG, R)
3.50 Bamay. (R) 4.55 Poh & Co. Bitesize. (R)
5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 Al Jazeera News.
6.00 Getaway. (PG, R) 6.30 A Current Affair. (R) 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. (PG) 12.00 Surfing Australia TV. 12.30 Destination WA. (R) 1.00 Let’s Eat With George. (Final) 1.30 MOVIE: Getting Even With Dad. (1994, PGl, R) Macaulay Culkin. 3.30 The
6.00 9News Saturday.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Torvill & Dean: Our Last Dance. Dimity Clancey chats with Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean.
8.30 MOVIE: Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory. (1971, G, R)
A poor yet honest boy wins a guided tour of a famous sweets factory owned by an eccentric businessman. Gene Wilder, Peter Ostrum, Jack Albertson.
10.35 MOVIE: Yes Man. (2008, Mls, R) A man resolves to say yes to everything. Jim Carrey.
12.30 How We Celebrate. (PGa, R)
1.30 Surfing Australia TV. (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)
TEN (5, 10)
6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. A couple can’t decide whether to stay or leave.
8.30 Gogglebox Australia. (R) A diverse range of people open their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows, with the help of special, locked-off cameras which capture every unpredictable moment.
9.30 Ambulance Australia. (Mdlm, R) Paramedics are called to help a 92-year-old pinned under his mobility scooter. 10.30 Elsbeth. (Mad, R) A party girl is afraid she may have committed murder. 11.30 FBI. (Mv, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
9GO! (82, 93)
6am Morning Programs. 9.50 David Attenborough’s Dynasties II. 11.00 Ancient Aliens. Noon MOVIE: Flight Of The Navigator. (1986) 1.55 Motor Racing. ABB FIA Formula E World C’ship. H’lights. 3.00 Hunting Hitler. 4.00 Jeopardy! UK. 5.00 Young Sheldon. 5.30 MOVIE: Agent Cody Banks. (2003, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: The Hunger Games: Catching Fire. (2013, M) 10.30 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 1pm
SEVEN (6, 7) TEN (5, 10)
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Sunday Footy Feast. 2.30 AFL Pre-Game Show. Pre-game coverage of the match. 3.00 Football. AFL. Round 6. Sydney v Port Adelaide. 6.00 Hello SA. (PG, R) 6.30 A Current Affair. (R) 7.00
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Football. AFL. Round 6. Western Bulldogs v St Kilda. From Marvel Stadium, Melbourne. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews taking a look back at all the action from the game.
11.00 MOVIE: Midnight Run. (1988, Mlv, R) A tough bounty hunter transports a thieving accountant from New York to Los Angeles. Robert De Niro, Charles Grodin.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Simon Reeve.
4.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. The latest news, sport and weather. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 9News Sunday.
6.00 The Sunday Project. Joins panellists for a look at the day’s news, events and hot topics. 7.00 Matlock. Billy tries to help Sarah when her client is arrested after his business partner is found murdered. Matty and Olympia contend with a pressing confidential matter. 9.00 FBI. (Mv) The team discovers there may be more to a story than just a feud when a famous rapper and two teen fans are gunned down on a tour bus. 11.00 The Sunday Project. (R) Joins panellists for a look at the day’s news, events and hot topics. 12.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings. Morning news and talk show, covering breaking news, politics, health, money, lifestyle and pop culture. 6am Morning Programs. 10.00 The Movie Show. 12.10pm Motorcycle Racing. World Superbike C’ship. Pirelli Dutch Round. 1.10 Figure Skating. ISU European C’ships. Replay. 2.45 Jeopardy! 4.50 WorldWatch. 5.20 PBS Washington Week. 5.45 The Day The Rock Star Died. 6.15 Abandoned Engineering. 8.10 The UnXplained. 9.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Amstel Gold Women’s Race. 10.30 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 8.30 Shopping. 9.00 Cities Of The Underworld. 10.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 10.30 Australia’s Best Backyards. 11.00 Escape To The Country. 1pm The Surgery Ship. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Cities Of The Underworld. 3.30 Better Homes. 4.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Rosemary & Thyme. 8.30 Vera. 10.30 Great Rail Restorations. 11.30 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 7.30 In Touch. 8.00 Beyond Today. 8.30 The Incredible Journey. 9.00 Turning Point. 9.30 TV Shop. 10.00 My Favorite Martian. 10.30 Getaway. 11.00 NRL Sunday Footy Show. 1pm MOVIE: Foreign Intrigue. (1956, PG) 3.00 Rugby
7.00 60 Minutes. Current affairs program.
8.00 RBT. (Ml) Police pull over a construction worker.
8.30 The People V Michael Jackson. (MA15+a) Takes a continued look at the 2005 People versus Michael Jackson criminal trial from the jurors’ point of view.
10.30 Footy Furnace. (Mlv)
11.30 9News Late.
12.00 The First 48. (Ma)
12.50 Destination WA.
1.20 9Honey: He Said She Said. (PG, R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 Drive TV: Drive Car Of The Year. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
Monday, April 21
ABC TV (2) SBS (3)
6am Morning Programs. 11.10 Scandinavia. (Premiere) 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
SEVEN (6, 7)
NINE (8, 9) 6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Unforgotten. (Final, Ml, R) 10.50 The Assembly. (PG, R) 11.30 Creative Types With Virginia Trioli. (Ml, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Landline. (R) 2.00 Restoration Australia. (R) 2.55 Back Roads. (Final, R) 3.25 Grand Designs New Zealand. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
The Body On Somerton Beach. (Ma, R) 2.45 Travel Shooters. (PGa) 3.20 Going Places. (R) 3.50 The Cook Up. (R) 4.20 Mystery Of The Puzzling Pyramids Egypt. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. Presented by Marc Fennell.
6.30 SBS World News.
ABC News.
7.30 7.30.
8.00 Australian Story: Herding Katter – Bob Katter.
8.30 Four Corners. Investigative journalism program.
9.15 Media Watch. (PG) Presented by Linton Besser. 9.35 The Truth About Menopause With Myf Warhurst. (PG, R)
10.30 ABC Late News. 10.45 Planet America. (R) 11.15 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PG, R) 11.45 Grand Designs New Zealand. (R) 12.30 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.20 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.10 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
7.35 Milan With Michael Portillo. (PGa) Michael Portillo comes face-to-face with a lion.
8.25 Big Fat Quiz Of Everything. (Mls) Guests include Harry Hill, David Mitchell, Roisin Conaty, Sophie Willan, Josh Pugh and Fatiha El-Ghorri.
10.05 Rock Legends: Queen. (PG, R)
Charts rock band Queen’s rise to fame.
10.30 SBS World News Late.
11.00 Classified. (Premiere, MA15+v)
11.50 Infiniti. (MA15+av, R)
1.55 Son Of. (MA15+av, R)
3.35 Paul O’Grady’s Little Heroes. (PGa, R) 4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6am Morning Programs. 9.30 Small Business Secrets. 10.05 The Movie Show. 12.15pm WorldWatch. 12.45 Most Expensivest. 1.40 Devoured. 2.35 Wine Lovers’ Guide. 3.05 WorldWatch. 5.20 Alone: Frozen. 6.10 Mysteries From Above. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.30 News. 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30
6.00 Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show. (PG) The latest news and views. 11.30 Athletics. Stawell Gift. Easter Monday session. 2.30 AFL Pre-Game Show. Pre-game coverage of the match. 3.00 Football. AFL. Round 6. Geelong v Hawthorn.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGav) Justin fears the worst.
7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (Return, PGal) Natalie Gruzlewski brings together a group of new farmers on a quest to find true love.
9.15 9-1-1: Lone Star. (Ma)
TK gets a huge surprise on his 30th birthday. Tommy is determined to push through her latest crisis.
10.15 The Agenda Setters. (R) An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics.
11.15 Suits L.A. (M) Ted and Harvey team up to right a wrong.
12.15 Treadstone. (MA15+av)
1.15 Travel Oz. (PG, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News.
5.30 Sunrise.
TEN (5, 10)
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Paris Can Wait. (2016, PGal, R) Diane Lane, Alec Baldwin, Arnaud Viard. 2.00 Pointless. (PG) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. (PG) 5.00[MELB]TippingPointAustralia.(PG) 5.30
6.00 9News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Travel Guides. (Return, PGl) Ordinary Australians become travel critics.
9.00 Footy Classified. (Ml) A team of footy experts tackles the AFL’s big issues and controversies.
10.00 9News Late.
10.30 The Prison Confessions Of Gypsy-Rose Blanchard: Only Way Out. (MA15+av) Gypsy is desperate to escape her mother.
11.20 Police After Dark. (Mlv, R)
12.10 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.05 Hello SA. (PG)
TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
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.
9GO! (82, 93) 6am Lara. Continued. (2019, PG, German) 7.05 Rabbit-Proof Fence. (2002, PG) 8.50 Funny Face. (1957)
6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Seinfeld. 11.00 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. Noon MOVIE: National Lampoon’s Vacation. (1983, PG) 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: National Lampoon’s European Vacation. (1985, M) 10.30 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Counting Cars. 11.00 Foley’s Gift. 11.30 Big Shrimpin’. 12.30pm Counting Cars. 1.30 Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars.
Tuesday, April 22
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Great Coastal Railway Journeys: Dun Laoghaire To Rosslare. (R) Hosted by Michael Portillo. 8.30 Insight. Kumi Taguchi explores the daily realities and impacts of living with invisible and chronic illnesses.
9.30 Dateline. Looks at El Salvador.
10.00 SBS World News Late.
10.30 Living Black: Marion Scrymgour – Path To Success. (R) 11.00 The Point. (R) 12.00 Guillaume’s Paris. (PG, R) 12.30 Unbroken. (Malv, R) 2.10 Faking Hitler. (Mns, R) 4.00 Paul O’Grady’s Little Heroes. (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. (PGav) A life is on the line.
7.30 Farmer Wants A Wife. (PGal) Hosted by Natalie Gruzlewski. 9.05 Doc. (Premiere, Ma) When Chief of Internal Medicine Dr Amy Larsen suffers a catastrophic brain injury, her life is turned upside down.
10.05 The Agenda Setters. (R) An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics. 11.05 The Irrational. (Mav) Alec and Rose infiltrate a community theatre production. 12.05 The Act. (MA15+ans, R)
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 Tipping Point: Travel Guides. (Premiere) Hosted by Todd Woodbridge. 9.00 Footy Classified. (Ml) A team of footy experts tackles the AFL’s big issues and controversies.
10.00 9News Late.
10.30 Australian Crime Stories: Killing Florence. (Mav, R)
11.40 The Equalizer. (MA15+v, R)
12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.20 9Honey Hacks. (PG)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Building Ideas. (PG)
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.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 Gogglebox Australia. (R) Opinionated viewers discuss TV shows. 8.40 Sam Pang Tonight. (Mals) A weekly tonight show hosted by Sam Pang, featuring a monologue roasting the news of the week. 9.40 Taskmaster Australia. (Mals, R) Comedy game show featuring comedians performing a series of tricky tasks. Hosted by Tom Gleeson. 10.40 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 11.05 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news. 12.05 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Contestants compete in a high-stakes game where they must beat The Banker to win a cash prize.
The Project. The hosts and guest panellists take a look at the day’s news, events and hot topics.
The Dog House Australia. (PGa) Glen and Cheri long for love. An 81-year-old searches for a companion.
Wednesday, April 23
ABC TV (2) SBS (3)
NINE (8, 9) 6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Four Corners. (R) 10.45 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 National Press Club Address. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 2.00 Restoration Australia. (R) 2.55 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. (R) 3.30 Grand Designs New Zealand. (PG, R) 4.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.25 Federal Election Announcement. (R)
6.30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games.
6.55 Federal Election Announcement. (R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 7.30.
8.00 Hard Quiz. (Final, PG)
8.30 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PG) A satirical news program. 9.00 Planet America. Hosted by Chas Licciardello and John Barron. 9.30 Big Boys. (Return, MA15+l) Shannon wins big at bingo.
10.00 Mayfair Witches. (Malv, R)
10.40 ABC Late News. 10.55 The Business. (R) 11.15 In Limbo. (Mals, R) 12.10 Grand Designs New Zealand. (PG, R) 12.55 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.10 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6am Morning Programs. 9.20 Travel Quest. (PG, R) 10.20 Matched. (PG, R) 11.10 Europe’s Waterways. (Premiere, PGa) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 The World’s Most Beautiful Landscapes. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. Presented by Marc Fennell.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Alone Australia. (Mal) Survivalists struggle with empty bellies.
8.40 Weight Of The World. (MA15+a) Examines the profound cultural shift drugs like Ozempic and Mounjaro are triggering in society. 9.45 The Handmaid’s Tale. (MA15+) June and Moira go undercover. Serena and Nick make consequential choices. 10.50 SBS World News Late. 11.20 My Brilliant Friend. (Return, Malnv) Elena wants to make up for lost time with her daughters. 12.25 Lost Luggage. (MA15+a, R) 3.20 Invisible. (PGa, R) 4.50 Poh & Co. Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 6.25pm Octonauts: Above And Beyond. 6.35 Hey Duggee. 6.40 Kiri And Lou. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.00 Supertato. 7.05 Dino Dex. 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 Abbott Elementary. 9.25 Doctor Who. 11.05 Late Programs.
6am WorldWatch.
SEVEN (6, 7) TEN (5, 10)
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 To Be Advised. 2.35 Surveillance Oz: Dashcam. (PG, R)
3.00 Beat The Chasers UK. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGav) Tane is pushed away.
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PGl, R) Hosted by Lee Mack.
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Hosts Sam Pang, Mick Molloy and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL.
9.30 Unfiltered. (PGa) Hamish McLachlan sits down with key football stars and personalities to reveal their stories.
10.00 Akmal: Open For Renovations. (MA15+l, R) A stand-up performance by Akmal.
11.15 Autopsy USA: Walt Disney. (Ma, R) A look at the 1966 death of Walt Disney. 12.15 Midnight Texas. (MA15+hv)
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
10.00 The Movie Show. Noon WorldWatch. 12.30 Hoarders. 2.10 My Life Online. 2.40 Queer Sports. 3.30 News. 3.35 WorldWatch. 5.30 Alone: Frozen. 6.25 Mysteries From Above. 7.20 Jeopardy! 7.50 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.45 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Fleche-Wallonne Men’s Race. 12.55am Cycling. UCI World Tour. Fleche-Wallonne Women’s Race. 2.15 Letterkenny. 3.10 Late Programs. 6am Shopping. 6.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Harry’s Practice. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Medical Emergency. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: Love’s Fast Lane. (2023, PGa) Grace Patterson, Tom Gipson, Paul Van Scott. 2.00 Pointless. (PG) 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 The Hundred With Andy Lee. (Ms) Comedy panel show.
8.30 The Grand Tour. (MA15+l) On the edge of Loch Ness, the hosts recount their road trip around central Europe.
9.50 Wild Cards. (Mv) George gets a three-day pass from jail.
10.50 9News Late.
11.20 The Equalizer. (Mv, R) McCall investigates the murder of a prominent congresswoman.
12.10 Next Stop.
12.40 Tipping Point. (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. (R)
5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa) Joe and Ashlea need a dog to tire out their sons.
8.40 Elsbeth. (Mv) Elsbeth and the team uncover plans for a gala heist while investigating the death of an employee at a New York jewellery store. 9.40 NCIS: Origins. (Mav) The team investigates the murder of a veteran who fell on hard times after serving in Vietnam. 10.40 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 11.05 The Project. (R) A look at the day’s news. 12.05 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.
7MATE (64, 73) SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm Learning On Country. 2.00 Tradition On A Plate.
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 Harlem Globetrotters.
ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 9.30 I Dream Of Jeannie. 10.00 Seinfeld. 11.00 Motorway Cops: Catching Britain’s Speeders. Noon MOVIE: Three Amigos! (1986, PG) 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: The Northman. (2022, MA15+) 11.15 Late Programs.
5.25 Black As. 5.30 News. 6.00 Bamay. 6.30 News. 6.40 Great Parks Of Africa. 7.30 Ocean Warriors: Mission Ready. 8.30 MOVIE: The New Boy. (2023) 10.45 Late Programs. NITV (34)
9GO! (82, 93) 6am The Band’s Visit. (2007, PG, Arabic) 7.05 The Scarlet And The Black. (1983, PG) 9.40 Earth To Echo. (2014, PG) 11.20 All Quiet On The Western Front. (1979, PG) 2.10pm The Movie Show. 2.45 Heidi. (2015, PG, German) 4.50 Dafne. (2019, PG, Italian) 6.35 Spitfire. (2018, PG) 8.30 Flags Of Our Fathers. (2006, MA15+) 10.55 Donnie Brasco. (1997, MA15+) 1.20am Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Mountain Men. 10.00 Deadliest Roads. 11.00 Storage Wars. 11.30 American Pickers. 12.30pm Pawn Stars. 1.30 Outback Truckers. 3.30 Duck Dynasty. 4.00 Mountain Men. 5.00 American Resto. 5.30 Storage Wars. 6.00 American Pickers: Best Of. 7.00 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Highway Patrol. 8.30 The Force: Behind The Line. 9.30 World’s Wildest Police Videos. 11.30 Late Programs.
Thursday, April 24
ABC TV (2) SBS (3)
6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Foreign Correspondent. (R) 10.30 The Weekly. (PG, R) 11.00 Restoration Australia. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Sherwood. (Malv, R) 2.00 Restoration Australia. (R) 2.55 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. (R) 3.25 Grand Designs New Zealand. (PG, R) 4.10 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (PG) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6am Morning Programs. 9.20 Travel Quest. (PG, R) 10.20 Matched. (PG, R) 11.10 Europe’s Waterways. (PGaw) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 ABC World News Tonight. 12.55 PBS News. 1.55 Alone Australia. (Mal, R) 3.00 Living Black. (R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 The World’s Most Beautiful Landscapes. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.30 Claire Hooper’s House Of Games. 6.55 Federal Election Announcement. (R) 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Restoration Australia: Bango Boom Time. 9.00 Grand Designs Australia: Mount Waverley. (R) Hosted by Anthony Burke. 9.55 Bill Bailey’s Wild West Australia. (PG, R) 10.45 ABC Late News. 11.00 The Business. (R) 11.15 Darby And Joan. (Final, PGad, R) 12.00 Grand Designs New Zealand. (PG, R) 12.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.20 The Many Days Of Anzac. (PG, R) 4.20 Anzac Dawn Service From Sydney. 5.30 Anzac Dawn Service From Canberra.
6.00 Mastermind Australia.
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 The Secret DNA Of Us: Surry Hills. (PGa) Marc Fennell and his team head to Surry Hills.
8.35 Sydney’s Super Tunnel: Countdown To Launch. The project is nearly complete. 9.40 Virdee. (MA15+v) Harry wakes covered in tarantula hawk wasps. 10.50 SBS World News Late. 11.20 Breaking Point. (MA15+av) 12.15 The Hollow. (Premiere, Malv) 1.15 Departure. (Ma, R) 2.50 Hitler’s Teen Killers. (Mav, R) 3.50 Paul O’Grady’s Little Heroes. (PG, R) 4.50 Poh & Co. Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
WorldWatch. 10.00 The Movie Show. 12.05pm WorldWatch. 12.35 Hoarders. 2.15 Insight. 3.15 News. 3.20 WorldWatch. 5.15 Alone: Frozen. 6.05 Over The Black Dot. 6.35 Travel Man. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. 8.30 History’s Greatest Mysteries. 10.10 The UnXplained With William Shatner. 11.00 Homicide. 1.45am Dark Side Of The Ring. 2.40 Late Programs.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: Hailey Dean Mysteries: Deadly Estate. (2017, PGav, R) Kellie Martin. 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Football. AFL. Round 7. Melbourne v Richmond.
10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews taking a look back at all the action from the game.
11.00 Kick Ons. Kane Cornes, Josh Jenkins and Jason Richardson debate the hottest topics and preview the upcoming AFL matches.
11.30 Born To Kill? Trevor Hardy. (Mav, R) A look at serial killer Trevor Hardy.
12.30 Spitfire Guardians. (PG, R) A look at the Battle of Britain.
1.30 Travel Oz. (PG, R) Presented by Greg Grainger.
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs.
4.50 Anzac Day Dawn Service.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: The Love Hunt. (2023, PGa) Scout Taylor-Compton, Brock Yurich, Sterling Beaumon. 2.00 Pointless. (PG) 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 9News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 RBT. (PGd, R) Follows the activities of police units.
8.30 Emergency. (Mlm, R) Dr Andrew Trezise is worried a dirt bike rider will have life-altering injuries after a crash.
9.30 A+E Crash Scene Emergency. (Premiere, alm) Staff treats a 76-yearold who suffered a catastrophic heart attack at the wheel.
10.30 My Feet Are Killing Me. (Mam)
11.20 9News Late.
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) 4.20 Anzac Day Dawn Service.
6.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer. 6.30 The Project. A look at the day’s news. 7.30 Gogglebox Australia. (Final) Opinionated viewers discuss TV shows. 8.30 Taskmaster Australia. (Mls) Comedy game show featuring comedians performing a series of tricky tasks. Hosted by Tom Gleeson. 9.40 Law & Order: SVU. (Msv, R) The discovery of an unconscious teenager sparks a missing persons investigation. 10.40 10’s Late News. Coverage of news,
Mornings.
Magic of enchanting Iceland
I’m a mother of two independent adult boys in their 30s and three years ago, my partner of 24 years passed away suddenly. Along with my grief I also began to feel a deep sense of loneliness and despair as I was used to a busy house full of family and suddenly, I was on my own. I started to seek adventure as a way forward. Walking and hiking helped me initially, but I needed more. I discovered that the more challenging the adventure, the better I felt about myself and what I could do as a solo female.
This is when my life changed in a grand way. One of my adventures was to wonderful Iceland.
I started watching travel videos online and Iceland kept catching my attention. To me it seemed like a kind of fairytale, magical and enchanting land that was so mystifying and different. I researched further and discovered it is indeed a nature lover’s paradise with its glaciers, hot springs, lava fields and waterfalls. And although it’s named Iceland, only a small part is glaciated.
After further research I learnt that it is one of the few countries in the world that allows people to hike its active volcanoes and that sounded incredibly exciting to me and a must do tour.
Thetourguidesweretwofriendlymiddleaged ‘Viking’ men who spoke fluent English. They picked me up early from my hostel in Reykjavik and drove us out to the extraordinary mountain peaks covered in black volcanic ash which in time covered itself in moss from the cold damp temperatures. I’ve never seen anything quite like it, it had an otherworldly appearance.
The guides then walked us through nearby lava tunnels which went on for miles. After spending a good hour roaming through and negotiating narrow uneven burrows, our guides then led us to the base of Meradalir Volcano.
We were led up the black igneous rock to fissures where you could see, smell and feel the heat from the hot lava below. I thought to myself ‘Where else in the world could you possibly experience this?’ I did feel relatively safe as there was many people traversing the area like it was Central Park, however I was greatly aware of the unpredictability of active volcanoes, and I could feel my adrenaline levels increase. The tour then led us on a hike to the highest point which took approximately two hours, and there we got the most stunning and extraordinary view from the top of the volcano.
You could see the black and red path of the lava spilling over and out for miles, less than one year ago travelling down through the rolling mountains. It was a spectacular sight and an experience of a lifetime and one I’ll never forget.
This experience is one of many that I’ve had since I began my adventures. My life now feels fulfilled and exciting. I find myself saying wow frequently and I am grateful for every day.
It was both a humbling and exhilarating experience. This world of ours is truly remarkable and there for all of us to see and experience.
My message to all is go out in search of things that excite you. Life is too short!
Lina Beerling at the base of base of Meradalir Volcano in Iceland.
The extraordinary mountain peaks in Reykjavik, Iceland covered in black volcanic ash and moss.
LINA BEERLING
Time to explore the Far East
For those wishing to delve into the history, culture and cuisine of the Far East, the new ‘Jewels of Japan and China’ voyages explore iconic destinations in China, including Shanghai, Beijing, Xi’an and Osaka, Japan.
The itineraries highlight rarely seen destinations and ports in China to which only Viking has access.
Each voyage offers guests immersive destination-focused experiences, insightful lectures and regionally inspired cuisine.
The new itineraries will operate on the Viking Yi Dun, formerly the Viking Sun, a sister ship featuring the same award-winning design and service as all other ocean ships in the fleet.
On this voyage guests have exclusive access to seldom-seen ports and learn more about the deep experience of travelling to this captivating nation.
For more than 15 years ‘Viking Rivers’ brought curious travellers to China. In addition to sailing the mighty Yangtze River guests visited Beijing, Shanghai and Xi’an and many other places in this fascinating country.
Viking’s Executive Vice President of Product, Karine Hagen said “Beyond visiting historic and iconic sites we shared a bit of real-life China experiences with our guests, meeting local children in schools that we sponsor along the Yangtze River and visiting the markets of Shanghai, the hutongs of Beijing and the typical homes of Tibetan families.”
“Our guests enjoyed meals with locals and sharing kitchen table stories and laughs and it is these personal contacts which, in my experience at least, create the most lasting travel memories.”
Ms Hagan said the Chinese itinerary was one of her personal favourites which is why she was particularly pleased when Viking again offered China as a destination to guests.
But instead of sailing through the heartland of China on a river, guests now sail along the coastline of China on the Viking Yi Dun.
She said, “This new itinerary is the first time international travellers get to explore some of these rarely seen Chinese destinations by ship so it’s quite a historical opportunity.”
After holding the launch of the inaugural China Discovery itinerary in Shanghai in 2024 both Ms Hagan and her father Viking Founder and Chairman Torstein Hagen agree they can’t wait to get back.
The new itineraries in China and Japan offer the guests the opportunity to explore the Viking way, so in addition to included shore excursions in every port they have options that offer immersive experiences to introduce guests to the lovely people, the fascinating history and the ancient as well as the modern cul-
ture of China.
“And for 2025 I’m delighted to announce that we are expanding our China program to offer new voyages that also include Japan.”
Discover the natural beauty of Jeju and Miyazaki and take in views of Mt. Fuji in Shimizu with overnight stays in Hiroshima and Osaka let you further explore Japan’s intriguing cities.
Guests have the opportunity to experience the German heritage of Qingdao, marvel at Shanghai, a city that blends tradition and modernity.
Ms Hagen said as one of Viking sister ships,
the Yi Dun offers the same award winning Scandinavian design and impeccable service as all the other ocean ships in the fleet so guests will be exploring in the utmost comfort.
With more than 50 ethnic groups, more than 300 languages spoken and 4000 years of history, China has one of the richest cultures in the world and Ms Hagen said they are delighted to be able to again offer privileged access to this magnificent country.
The fifteen day ‘Jewels of Japan and China’ voyage from Tokyo to Beijing (or vice versa) is priced from $6,295 per person in a Veranda
Stateroom, with savings of up to $12,200 per couple on select October to November 2025 sailings. (Available to book now through 30 June 2025 or until sold out.)
Viking’s ocean vessels are intimate yet sophisticated and custom-designed with fewer than 1,000 guests and all veranda staterooms no kids, no casinos, and everything you need to be included, they focus on delivering meaningful experiences tailored to you.
To find out more and join this once in a lifetime adventure, please visit viking.com or phone 138 747.
The stunning cityscape view of Shanghai, included in the Viking Jewels of Japan and China voyage on offer now.
Zojoji Temple, Tokyo.
LEE MCCARTHY
Discover More of Asia FOR LESS IN 2025
Are you planning your next 2025 ocean voyage? Explore Asia’s magnificent temples, immerse yourself in ancient cultural traditions and enjoy authentic regional cuisine. Sail with us and gain insights from knowledgeable local guides as you discover iconic cities and breathtaking natural wonders.Wherever it is that sparks your curiosity, you can enjoy savings of up to $15,800 per couple on selected 2025 Asia Viking voyages. Hurry, these offers are available on new bookings from 1 April 2025 until 30 June 2025.
& HONG KONG
Hong Kong to Bangkok
15 DAYS | 4 COUNTRIES | 6 GUIDED TOURS
From $8,095pp in Veranda Stateroom
COASTAL JEWELS OF CHINA
Hong Kong to Beijing (Tianjin) or vice versa
15 DAYS |
Hong Kong (Shenzhen) to Beijing
22 DAYS | 1 COUNTRY
From $12,795pp in Veranda Stateroom
JEWELS OF JAPAN &
Beijing (Tianjin) to Tokyo or vice versa
15 DAYS | 3 COUNTRIES | 9 GUIDED TOURS
Beijing to Tokyo (Yokohama) 22
Kiriwina Island
Alotau
Conflict
South Pacific
Islands & New Zealand Voyage
43 Nights | 3 January 2026 | Prices fr $9,999pp
Savour an extraordinary adventure on board Noordam, where you’ll be immersed in a world of awe-inspiring sights, unforgettable experiences and endless adventure.
Embark on the ultimate adventure with a one-night hotel stay in Sydney before setting sail on a 42-night cruise across Australia, the South Pacific and New Zealand. Dive into Moreton Island’s crystal-clear waters, then journey to Brisbane, Townsville, and Cairns. Venture into Papua New Guinea, where you’ll discover the beauty of Alotau, the Conflict Islands and Kiriwina Island.
Immerse yourself in WWII history of Honiara, then be enchanted by Vanuatu and Fiji. Experience Tonga, explore New Zealand’s breathtaking coastlines and stand in awe at the historic Waitangi. Your adventure culminates with Tasmania’s natural wonders and Melbourne’s charm, before returning to Sydney.
Cairns
Townsville
Moreton Island
Brisbane
Sydney
Your itinerary
Burnie
Hobart
Port
Mystery
Honiara
Islands
Luganville
Lautoka Suva
Dravuni
Waitangi
Fiordland National
Great Barrier Reef
Covering 344,000 square kilometres and 900 islands, the Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest living organism. Experience its breathtaking beauty and vibrant tapestry of colours from a glass-bottom boat.
Your holiday includes
Full-Board Cruise
42 night full-board cruise on board Noordam
Visiting: Sydney, Moreton Island, Brisbane, Townsville, Cairns, Alotau, Conflict Islands, Kiriwina Island, Honiara, Luganville, Port Vila, Mystery Island, Lautoka, Suva, Dravuni Island, Vava’u, Nuku’alofa, Waitangi, Tauranga, Auckland, Tauranga, Napier, Wellington, Timaru, Port Chalmers, Fiordland National Park (scenic cruising), Hobart, Burnie, Melbourne, Sydney
Vava’u
Nuku’alofa
Tauranga
Napier
Wellington
Sydney, Moreton Island, Brisbane, Townsville, Cairns, Alotau, Conflict Islands, Kiriwina Island, Honiara, Luganville, Port Vila, Mystery Island, Lautoka, Suva, Dravuni Island, Vava’u, Nuku’alofa, Waitangi, Tauranga, Auckland, Tauranga, Napier, Wellington, Timaru, Port Chalmers, Fiordland National Park (scenic cruising), Hobart, Burnie, Melbourne, Sydney
Noordam is an awardwinning ship offering excellent hospitality, luxurious amenities, and world-class restaurants. With ultra-modern entertainment and extensive spa treatments, you won’t be short of luxuries on board.
Luxury Hotel Stay
1 night five-star stay in Sydney at the Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney with breakfast
Complimentary Flights & Taxes
Saver Fare
Enjoy the same exceptional value with our holiday packages featuring hotel stays, memorable tours, and iconic rail journeys around the world, all without transfers* included – travel your way with Imagine Holidays.
PUZZLES
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
ACROSS
1 Attribute (6)
4 Castigate (8)
9 Rodeo ropes (7)
11 Lighthearted (7)
12 Connection (11)
13 Hearing organ (3)
14 Royal family member (8)
16 Doorkeeper (5)
19 Follower of a Jamaican religion related to reggae music (5)
20 Masters (8)
22 Obtain (3)
24 A phrase marked off by brackets (11)
26 Fears (7)
27 Sewer entrance (7)
29 Salad additive (8)
30 Writing desk (6)
DOWN
1 Unwell (3)
2 Paintings of people (9)
3 Feudal lord (5)
5 Genetic mixture (6)
6 Measurements, – of sugar (9)
7 Idiotic (5)
8 Bold undertakings (11)
10 Meagre (6)
12 Describes a legally protected creative work (11)
15 Ultimate winners (9)
17 Astrological prediction (9)
18 Large bottle of wine (6)
21 Place of confinement (6)
23 Laconic (5)
25 Follower of the main Indian religion (5)
28 Australian bird (3)
Using the nine letters
be included and each letter may only be used
No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.
1 What is the science of epigraphy?
2 Mike Myers (pictured) shares his name with the antagonist from which horror franchise?
3 In which year was the element barium first isolated?
4 Which famous politician said, 'In the twinkling of an eye, I found myself without an office, without a seat, without a party, and without an appendix'?
5 What song does Annie Lennox sing in the 1991 film Edward II?
6 How many kilometres is the diameter of the Earth’s moon?
7 What breed of dog was the original Greyfriars Bobby?
8 Which scale is used to measure the spiciness of chilli peppers?
9 Hyson is used to make which kind of drink?
10 Who was known as 'The Champion' in English Test cricket?
No. 265 No. 233
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.
Easter services
South Valley Baptist Church Easter services, Good Friday 9am, Easter Sunday sunrise service 6.30am, breakfast 7.30am and service 9am.
Lectures
Australian Decorative & Fine Arts Society
Geelong Inc. welcomes members and guests to illustrated lectures monthly, Newcomb Hall, May 14, 10.15am. Geelong West Town Hall, 5.45pm. Guest speaker Jamie Hayes from UK, graduate Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts.
Ballroom dance
Leopold Hall, Leopold Hall, 805-809
Bellarine Highway, Saturday April 19, 7.30-11pm, $10 includes supper, music Ben.
0419 463 306
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
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
Ocean Grove Senior Citizens
101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove
Weekly
Tuesday: snooker 1pm, chess, indoor bowls 1.15pm. Wednesday: bingo 1.15pm, ukulele class 2pm, guitar jam session 4pm. Thursday: snooker 1pm, cards 500, social afternoons 1.15pm. Friday: art classes 9am.
Fortnightly
CWA 1st & 3rd Monday 2.30pm
Kareen, 0419 246 346, or Janis, 5255 4585
Monthly
Inhouse Movies 3rd Wednesday 1.30pm.
Dianne, 5255 1372
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
Chess Group chess lessons at Geelong West. Suitable for beginners who have a reasonably firm understanding of the game rules. Kids and adults welcome.
Isaac, isaacsmith5603@gmail.com or 0406 199 457
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
Geelong Historical Society Inc.
Guest speaker first Wednesday of each month, 7.30pm, Virginia Todd Hall, 9 Clarence Street, Geelong West.
Harry, 0473 807 944, or geelonghistoricalsociety.org.au
Stamps
Geelong Philatelic Society Inc meets 7pm first Saturday of the month at Virginia Todd Community Hall, 9-15 Clarence Street, Geelong West and 1pm third Monday of the month at Belmont Library, 163 High Street, Belmont.
Julie, 0438 270 549
Scrabble club
Christ Church hall, corner Moorabool and McKillop Streets, 1pm Saturdays. Beginners to experts welcome.
Pauline, 0429 829 773, or John, 0434 142 282
Games
Scrabble, chess, board games or cards.
Geelong Dragon Boat Club
Paddle at Barwon River. Training Wednesdays 5pm, Saturdays 9am. Free one-month trial.
revolutionise.com.au/geelongdragons
Geelong Prostate Support Group Meets last Friday of the month (except December), 10am-noon, Belmont Park Pavilion, 162 Barrabool Road, Belmont. Bill, 0414 524 155, or info@geelongpsg.net
Choir
St Paul’s Choir rehearses Wednesdays 7.45-8.45pm and 9.30am Sunday for 10.30am service. Choral scholarships available. Occasional choir for those unable to make commitment to main choir.
Dr Terry Norman, 0411 875 033, or termernorman@gmail.com
Mr Perfect Monthly free bbq for men of all ages to get together over a BBQ for a chat. Norlane Community Centre first Sunday each month except January, 10.30am-12.30pm. 0430 022 446, or michaeldg999@gmail.com
Thursdays 2-4.30pm, All Saints’ Parish Hall, Newtown. Afternoon tea provided.
Dinah, 0418 547 753
Book club
Leopold CAE book club meets second Tuesday of each month 6.30pm.
Shirley, 0488 055 969
Sing Australia Geelong Choir Wednesdays 7.30-9.30pm at Senior Citizens Centre, 52 Thomson Street, Belmont. No auditions needed.
Mary, 0419 278 456
Mindfulness & meditation U3A 9.30am and 12.30pm Wednesdays, Cobbin Farm, Grove Road, Grovedale.
Jean, 5264 7484
Geelong Breakfast Lions Morning club for those who want to help others, first Tuesday of each month at 8am, Eastern Hub (formerly Karingal) in East Geelong. Dinner somewhere in Geelong each month to suit members.
ajd53m@yahoo.com
Ocean Grove Seniors
Play 500 every Thursday at 1.15pm. Cost $20 annually and coffee included. 102 The Terrace, Ocean Grove.
Lyn, 5256 2540
Scribes Writers Group
South Barwon Community Centre, Mondays 9.30am-noon. Welcoming new members who wish to refine their skills.
geelongscribeswriters@gmail.com, or 5243 8388
Ballroom dancing
Belmont Park Pavilion, Thursdays 2-4 pm.
Val, 52513529
Kids’ church Group lessons for children aged three to six years; 7-10 years; and 10+ years at St Paul’s Anglican Church Hall, 171a Latrobe Terrace, Geelong, first Sunday of the month during school term, 10.30-11.30am.
Suzie, 0402 963 855, or Althea, 0403 005 449
Zonta Club of Geelong Meets monthly for dinner first Wednesday of the month between February and December at 6.30pm for a 6.45pm start. RSVP essential.
zontageelong.org.au or zontaclubgeelong@yahoo.com.au
Geelong ballroom dancing Saturdays 7.30-10.15pm, corner Bayview Parade and Carey Street, Hamlyn Heights. Entry: $10. BYO drinks and a plate. Afternoon tea dance, Wednesdays 2-4pm. Teaching segment for a new dance 1.30-2pm.
5278 9740, or geelongballroomdc.com.au
Corio Bay Lions Club Meetings First and third Thursday of each month at 6.30pm.
geelongcoriobay.vic@lions.org.au
Alcoholics (and other addicts) For Christ 12 Steps Group Meets Thursdays 7.30pm at Belmont-Highton Baptist Church, 43 Mt Pleasant Road, Belmont. 0420 910 763
Belmont Seniors Players wanted to play 500 each Monday 12.30pm. Belmont Senior Centre, 52 Thomson Street, Belmont.
5241 1776
Geelong Vietnam Veterans Coffee and a chat at 31 Mt Pleasant Road, Belmont. Open Monday, Wednesday and Friday 10am-3pm. Fortnightly lunch at various locations. Meetings second Monday of each month.
Gary, 0400 862 727
Welcome mat
Belmont Uniting Church every Friday from 10am-1pm. Games, lunch and friendship.
Fay, 0409 361 414
OMNI
Older Men New Ideas men’s friendly informal chat group, South Barwon Community Centre, 33 Mt Pleasant Road, Belmont, 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month, 10.30am.
Allan, 0409 665 608
Lara Community Market Run by Rotary Club of Lara District every second Sunday of the month at Lara RSL from 9am to 1pm.
Geelong Amateur Radio Club Storrer Street Clubhouse, Geelong, Wednesdays 1.30- 4pm and Fridays at 6.30pm.
Robert, 0438 409 979, or vk3atl.org
Out and about at the waterfront
Independent photographer Ivan Kemp dusted off the cobwebs of the weekend and headed to Geelong’s waterfront on Monday to see who was out and about.
1/ Louise and Adam Josifovski and their children Ariana and Levi. 2/ Howard Hughes on his yacht C’est Si Bon. 3/ Shaun Mitten and his dog Benji. 4/ Fiona Reed with daughters Abigail and Makayla. 5/ Annette Rezk and son Ambrose. 6/ Declan Robinson with his children Hadley and Archer and his dog Chisel. 7/ Nelza Mills, Nina Gearing-Thoma, Pearl Stott and Isabelle Thyer. 8/ Kritika Shrestha and daughter Arika. 9/ Camilla Dwyer with son Joey and Lisa Green with son Samuel. 10/ Nicole and John Antonopoulos. 11/ Linda Grigsby and Ellie Baxter. 12/ Bethany and Leo Costello. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 471647
Child Protection Practitioner & Advanced Child Protection Practitioner (Rural After Hours Services) Work Location: VIC - various
The Department of Families, Fairness and Housing Rural After Hours Service (RAHS) are now accepting applications for Beginning Practice Child Protection Practitioners (CPP3) and Advanced Child Protection Practitioners (CPP4).
If you are passionate about making a positive difference in the lives of children, then a career in child protection is for you. Child protection work is interesting, challenging, busy and fulfilling and involves therapeutic and analytical skills. You will be working in collaboration with families, Community Sector Organisations and professionals to develop and implement effective plans for children.
We are recruiting to positions across the Rural After Hours Loddon and West division teams.
As part of these teams you will work to a structured rostered model and provide response and emergency outreach visits as required to all child protection matters that are received outside core business hours, at night, on weekends and on public holidays and will be entitled to applicable penalty rates and allowances.
The positions are as follows:
Loddon Division
Child Protection Practitioner CPP3 - Multiple full time and part time positions (.74 FTE and .26 FTE) in Bendigo
Advanced Child Protection Practitioners CPP4 - Multiple full time and part time positions (.74 FTE and .26 FTE) in Bendigo
West Division
Advanced Child Protection Practitioners CPP4 – Multiple part time positions (.26 FTE) in Warrnambool, Portland or Horsham
Advanced Child Protection Practitioners CPP4 - 2 X part time positions (.26 FTE) in Geelong Advanced Child Protection Practitioners CPP4 - 1 X full time position in Warrnambool or Portland Working in child protection in a regional location is a unique opportunity. It offers a different experience and sense of pride knowing that you are having a positive impact on children and families in your community where you live. You will benefit from access to ongoing learning, development and career opportunities, tailored wellbeing and support programs, flexible work arrangements and generous leave provisions including an additional 5 days annual leave and substitute leave for public holidays.
Salaries
Current salary ranges (based on full time rosters and excluding 11.5% superannuation)
CPP3 $76,817 to $93,275
Employees who hold a Social Work bachelor’s degree will commence at a higher salary, currently $80,111.
CPP4 $95,102 to $107,905
In addition to the salary received, other financial incentives include:
•four annual wage increases of 3% over the life of the Victorian Public Service Enterprise Agreement 2024.
•salary sacrificing options including vehicle novated leases and private health insurance
•annual clothing allowance paid on 1 July of $650 (pro rata for part-time employees)
Child protection retention allowance
A retention payment of up to $15,000 paid over 3 years to eligible CPP3 and CPP4 employees who are substantively employed and reside in one of the regional locations; find out more by visiting https://www.vic.gov.au/child-protection-jobs-regional-benefits
Contact for further information: Michelle Ferran 0458 079 331/ michelle.ferran@dffh.vic.gov.au
Reference number: VG/CPP3CPP4RAHSAC25
Applications close: 20-Apr-2025
Formoreinformationaboutthisopportunity,pleasegotowww.careers.vic.gov.auanddownload apositiondescriptiontoviewdepartmentalinformation,theselectioncriteria,ourpreemployment screeningrequirementsandourDiversityandInclusioncommitments.
Big brother gives Prado a lift
By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring
TheprideoftheToyotaSUVparade,thePrado, is showing off a new stiff upper lip thanks to TNGA-F architecture shared with its bigger LandCruiser 300 Series sibling.
Also on board is the latest in the company’s on and off-road driver assistance technology, including a new 48-volt V-active powertrain mated to a new eight speed automatic shifter.
The pedigree has its origins in the iconic LandCruiser with all its on- and off-road capability and functionality. The latest generation consists of five members – GX, GXL, VX, Altitude and Kakadu – all featuring the new V-Active powertrain and eight-speed automatic transmission.
Withthestifferladder-frameunderpinnings the LandCruiser family members have grown compared to the previous generation. Wheelbase is now 2850mm, 60mm more than before and front and rear track widened to 1664mm, 79mm and 83mm, respectively, up on previously. Overall length is stretched, providing more cabin space.
The range is priced from $72,500, plus on road costs, for the entry-level five-seat GX. Up a notch to the GXL adds a third row of 50:50 split seating for $79,990. The mid-range VX seven-seater (on test) comes in at $87,400, while the off-road focused Altitude ($92,700)issecondonlytotheflagshipKakadu ($99,990.
The Toyota Warranty Advantage sets up each Prado buyer with five years unlimited kilometre cover and five years’ capped price servicingforthefirst10servicesoversix-month intervals or 10,000km, whichever comes first. There is also the option of a full-service lease through Toyota Finance Australia.
Styling
The Prado’s striking exterior draws on LandCruisers of the past, while retro design characteristics offer substantial functional benefits. For example, a low beltline, flat bonnet and extensive glass allow good visibility in tight off-road situations, while chamfered edges and high-mounted lamps keep clear of potential damage.
The VX wears a black vertical grille with Toyota bullhorn branding, body-coloured bumpers and wheel arches, 20-inch alloy wheels and high-grade LED headlights with automatic high beam and auto-levelling.
Interior
While the cabin has undergone an extensive makeover to ensure up to five or seven occupants, according to the grade, are carried in comfort and safety, it does have a twist.
Look, we know the md-hybrid battery needs a home but why build it such a quirky corner.
To accommodate this, the third row of seats does not fold flat. It sticks up above the load floor leaving a narrow gap to the tailgate.
Toyota’ssolutionistofillthegapwithaskinny removable storage box with lid that takes shopping bags three abreast. It makes for quite a lift to load and unload.
The rear fares no better with occupants. Despite the Prado’s bulk comfort for even the average build occupant is at a premium. However, access is just the opposite, with the single pull of a lever freeing one of the second-row seats to tumble forward.
A single USB-C outlet and a pair of cupholders on each side await borders and there’s a 220V/120W outlet in the adjoining boot area. There are also air vents in the roof. There is 182 litres of load space behind the third row, expanding to 906 litres with it folded and 1829 litres with the second row folded as well.
The VX boasts leather accented upholstery with black/tan colour schemes, driver’s lumbar support with memory, four-way power adjustable front passenger seat, power adjustable steering wheel, carpet mats, refrigerated centre console cubby, 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, multi-terrain monitor, 14-speaker JBL premium audio and tyre pressure monitor.
Infotainment
RATINGS
Looks: 8/10 Performance: 6/10
Safety: 7/10
Thirst: 6/10
Practicality: 7/10
Comfort: 6/10
Tech: 8/10
Value: 7/10
All variants are fitted with the latest gen multimedia system accessed via a 12.3-inch touchscreen or via steering wheel-mounted controls. On hand are wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, plus Bluetooth, AM/FM/ DAB+ radio and embedded cloud-based satellite navigation.
Engines/transmissions
The Prado is powered by a 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine putting out 150kW between 3000 and 3400rpm and 500Nm of torque from 1600 to 2800rpm. A new eight-speed automatic transmission has a broader spread of ratios than previously and feeds a full-time all-wheel drive system, dual range transfer case and a lockable centre limited-slip differential.
Safety
Prado occupant safety is testament to Toyota’s Safety Sense technology and Toyota Connected Services which supplies a wealth inbuilt of vehicle information via smartphone app. Driver assistance applies on- and off-road through an improved camera-cum-radar system that scans the road with greater accuracy and at longer distances.
Other advanced technology includes autonomousemergencybrakingpre-collision system, all-speed adaptive cruise control, lane assist, and departure warning, road sign assist, blind spot monitor with safe exit assist, emergency stop and driver camera,
along with front and rear parking sensors and nine airbags.
Driving
The tried-and-tested 2.8-litre diesel donk is given a hand by 48-volt V-Active technology, adding smoothness, driveability and fuel economy to the Prado on bitumen and in the rough. Toyota claims diesel usage of 7.6 litres per 100 kilometres for the VX on the combined urban/highway cycle. The test vehicle managed 9.6 litres over a week of mixed driving, tending towards city usage.
Driver assistance systems span on- and off-road going with vehicle stability control with active traction control, downhill assist and crawl control, while across-the-board trailer sway control and integrated towbar pre-wiring harness frees the Prado’s increased 3500kg braked towing capacity. With double-wishbone front and four-link solid axle rear suspension, enhanced handling and ride comfort have come via the addition of adaptive variable suspension The braking and steering systems showed an improved response and feel, the latter through the debut of electric power steering. Pity about the squeaky brakes in reverse.
Summary
For those who like the idea of genuine off-road capability the new Prado has the goods wrapped in a ‘modern’ retro design to have city dwellers drooling. The mid-range VX is the way to go.
The Prado’s striking exterior draws on LandCruisers of the past. (Pictures: Supplied)
Cats on the attack
Independent photographer Ivan Kemp was at St Albans Reserve on Saturday to see the Lara Cats defeat St Albans in Geelong Netball League A Grade.
Sharni Van Doren reaches high to pull in a pass.
Above: Katie Loader and Caitlin Hendricksen compete for the ball.
Left: Bridget Kelly intercepts a pass.
Rosie Shannahan wins this contest with Amber Kelly.
Left: Kaitlyn Haustorfer takes the ball through the centre. Centre: Tiana Galea surveys her options. Right: Taliah Mullane looks down the court. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 470278
Tori Hoffman with the ball.
Grace Iacono takes the ball in the ring.
Claire Newcombe looks for a passing option.
Shaya Walter takes possession in front of Claire Newcombe.
Supersaints march in
St Albans enjoyed a big win against Lara at home on Saturday and Independent photographer Ivan Kemp Kemp was there.
Left: Brodie Cambridge loses possession in this tackle by Jacob Russell. Centre: Max Chambers handballs under pressure. Right: Ethan Guida goals on the run. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 470280
Lachie Grima marks in front of goal.
Ryan Bell and Joel Grigsby compete in the ruck.
Nic Clarke runs in to kick one of his five goals.
Koby Harris kicks into the forward line.
Above: Tom Higgins kicks a goal.
Right: Jim Botsaris knocks the ball to Koby Harris.
Sam Purdy lays a strong tackle on Jim Botsaris and wins a free kick.
Top right: Bailey Coutts tackles Darby Henderson near the Above: Majok Bol puts a big tackle on Koby Harris.
Supersaints grab round 1 victory
By Justin Flynn
St Albans 19 & Under netball coach Warren Button is hoping his side can play finals again this season.
TheyoungSupersaintsmadethepreliminary final last year before losing to Newtown & Chilwell and they started the new season off in style, defeating Lara 36 to 27 at St Albans Reserve on Saturday April 12.
“We started off slow, but the girls got the job done in the end,” Button said.
“It was a hard-fought slog.”
St Albans led by five at half-time, but scored nine goals to three in the all-important third term.
“We looked at the first half and we changed our game plan,” Button said.
“We started to get off the body and create more of a moving target in the goal circle, which opened it up and gave our goalers a bit more freedom. And then we also dropped one of our centre courters back into defence to create a bit of a wall.”
Button said finals are definitely on the radar.
“We made the prelim last year and we’ve still got three of those players in the side,” he said.
“I would hope to make finals again this year, but it’s just growth from the first half to the back half of the year. It’d be a win for us if we canimproveonthescorelineandjusthavethat efficiency.”
TheSupersaints’bestplayersweregoalkeeper Isabella Telfer, goal defence Ruby Wilson and Millie Andrews who played goal attack and goal shooter.
Surf Coast pair gain wildcards
“She’s (Telfer) fairly solid back there and withRubyhelpingherout,theycommunicated quite well,” Button said.
“They got the job done. She (Andrews) startedoffatgoalattackinthefirstquarterand then moved in the goal shooter for the second, third and fourth.”
The competition now pauses for a week for Easter before St Albans takes on Geelong West in round 2.
“WefoundGeelongWesttobeawell-coached
side last year,” Button said.
“They’re well structured. It’s going to be an even contest. I think it’s just going to come down to who’s cleaner on the court.”
Buttonsaidtherewereareastoimproveupon going forward.
“In the first quarter our disposals were lacking,” he said.
“Wethrewafewballsawaysowejustneedto pick the better options.”
Newtown&ChilwelldefeatedBellPark49to
Xavier Huxtable and Carly Shannahan have secured their wildcard spots in the 2025 Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach.
The trials for the main event wrapped up in spectacular fashion, as local talent battled for the coveted wildcard spots into the main draw of the World Championship Tour event. The competition was moved to the secondary location of Winkipop which provided punchy right hand waves on which the region’s best up-and-coming surfers could display their surfing.
Previous trials’ winner Tully Wylie (Jan Juc) came out swinging in the early rounds, dominating with his sharp backhand attack. In the semifinals, Xavier Huxtable (Jan Juc) brought high-octane power surfing, navigating the challenging conditions with precision and speed. Willis Droomer (Jan Juc) also earned his place in the final, putting on a progressive display together with multiple aerials that kept the judges on their toes.
In the final, Droomer stuck to his strengths, combining a powerful carve into a stylish forehand air reverse for a 6.67 point ride. Huxtable countered with a deep snap into a
huge layback, earning a 7.17 point ride and briefly taking the lead. Droomer answered back with two clean air reverses on a single wave to take back the lead.
Huxtablethenpaddledintoasetwaveatthe top of the peak and unleashed a committed carve followed by another critical layback, sending spray flying and the crowd into a frenzy. The score dropped, an 8.17 point ride, enough to snatch the lead and the win. With a combined total of 15.34 points, Huxtable claimed the men’s wildcard into the Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach main event.
“It feels amazing to win, I’ve had a good couple of months - just got second with the Torquay Boardriders Club at the ABB, qualified for the Challenger Series and now getting into the event makes it even better,” he said.
“It feels so special to be able to surf against the best and hopefully I’ll go well.”
Among the women, Eva Bassed (Sandy Point) stood out through the early rounds with her ability to read the lineup and pick off the best waves. Meanwhile, Carly Shannahan (Torquay) impressed the judges with her
crisp forehand surfing and confidence under pressure.
In the final, Shannahan opened with a series of forehand snaps for a 5.17 point ride. She backed it up on a beautifully shaped wave that she tore into with a huge carve and then executed a critical snap to finish, scoring an excellent 8.00 point ride. Sarah Hickson (Rye) beganmountingacomeback,lockingina6.33 pointrideandonlyneedinga6.68astheclock wound down.
With under a minute to go, Hickson found a wave under Shannahan’s priority and attacked it with two powerful top turns. The beach held its breath as the score dropped, a 6.50 point ride. With Hickson coming up just short it secured Shannahan’s win and her spot in the main draw.
“It feels amazing to take out the trials, I feel like it’s not even real, maybe I’ll wake up soon,” Shannahan said.
“It’s been such a good day. All my mates came down to watch every heat and heaps of people have been messaging for support so I’m so grateful for that, it’s just been an epic day with an epic result,” she continued.
26 with goaler Emma Chitty best on court.
StMary’shadtoworkhardtodefeatGeelong West 32 to 23 with Alexis Milner dangerous around goal while Keira Loney was potent at the other end for the Giants.
St Joseph’s pulled away from Leopold to win 35 to 26 in a good game with skipper Paris Knight in fine early form.
South Barwon got the better of Grovedale 51 to 22 with co-captain Isabell Hand scoring 24 goals.
United signs American star
Geelong United Basketball has signed US import Annika Stewart for the remainder of the NBL1 South season.
Freshoffthebackofwinningthe2025 WBIT Championship with University of Minnesota women’s basketball team, the 191cm forward/centre will join the ranks of Geelong’s unbeaten women’s squad, adding even more depth to the already impressive roster.
“I’m beyond excited to experience basketball in Australia and to join the Geelong team,” Stewart said of her signing.
“It’s an incredible opportunity, and I can’t wait to get to know my teammates, explore a new culture, and compete in a new league.”
BeforehertimeinMinnesota,Stewart spentfourseasonsplayingforUniversity of Nebraska, where she would first link up with Geelong’s Jaz Shelley. Teammates once again in a United uniform, Stewart is ready to bring “energy, toughness, and a team-first mindset” to the floor.
“I’m looking forward to contributing in any way I can to help us win games and build a strong team culture,” she said.
“Annika is going to be a great asset for us,” GUB women’s NBL1 head coach, Megan Moody said.
“She adds another strong post presence which will complement what we already have in place through the likesofHannahHank,DakotaCrichton and Tanielle Knight.”
Stewart is set to join the squad during Geelong’s Tasmania double header weekend starting on Anzac Day, and will play her first home game when the team returns to Geelong Arena on May 10 against Dandenong Rangers.
Jan Juc surfer Xavier Huxtable secured a wildcard spot in the 2025 Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach. (Noah Clifford (moshxmedia)/Surfing Victoria)
Left: Millie Andrews takes the ball under the basket. Centre: Lara’s Lani Hassett looks for a pass (top), and Ruby Wilson was one of St Albans’ best Right: Tayla Button takes the ball outside of the circle. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 470281
Sense of optimism at Supersaints
By Justin Flynn
There was a genuine sense of optimism at St Albans even before the round 1 game of the new season, and while the lid is not off yet, a 138-point win certainly helps.
The Supersaints were simply superb in their 22.20(152) to 2.2(14) win against Lara and things are falling into place for new coach Rick Munn.
“We’ve got a whole new footy department, coaching staff, 20 new recruits, so it does feel like a different vibe around the group,” he said.
“They’ve always been pretty strong off the field, it’s a good football club. Great volunteers, (we are) financial and a good junior program, but we just haven’t had a great football team for a little while.
“The footy club is really invested in a great medical team, strength and conditioning team and giving me all the resources I need to to really turn it into a proper footy program.”
Fletcher Keck has been a ball magnet for St Albans for several seasons and was best afield against the Cats, but Munn said he challenged the young dynamo during the preseason.
“I really challenged Kecky when we had his exit interview (last year),” Munn said.
“I wanted him to be more dangerous with the ball. He won a lot of, nearly 90 percent, of his possessions last year were in the back half. That’s going to happen when the ball is in there a lot, but we really challenged him to get fitter, get stronger and play as an inside mid where he can be a bit more damaging and explosive from contests.
“He’s got all the attributes. I won’t be surprised if he’s at the very least, having a full VFL preseason or that clubs will look at him. He’s got all the right traits.”
Munn said what pleased him most about the performance was how different players had embraced, rather than shunned, new roles.
“A lot of those boys have stuck fat for the last three, four, five years - I think they won five games in four years or something like that,“ he said. “Ninety percent of them signed on before
I got there. They’re really invested in the future so it’s good to see some of those boys that have played there for a long time without much success - it just takes a little bit early and just gets that little bit of a sugar hit.
“Theygo‘OK,well, this is what it feels like to be playing good footy and win games and if we keep playing our role and we keep investing then we can enjoy it a little bit more often’.”
The Supersaints’ early fixture is favourable with several more chances to claim victories in the next month or so.
“We want to get out of the Division 3 zone. You break it down, the GFL has three (unofficial) tiers - the Div 1 teams, Div 2 teams and Div 3 teams and it’s been pretty consistent for a little while.
“But we’re really challenging the group to try and break out of that Div 3 space into the Div 2 space to be more competitive with those teams.”
COLAC had a day out against North Shore, winning by 264 points. Ben McCarthy was best while Jonathan Simpkin and Luke Hillman each booted six goals with Darcy Lang slotting through five. Declan Clarke was the Seagulls’ best and booted the team’s only goal.
SOUTH BARWON defeated Grovedale by 76pointswithLachlanNoblebootingfivegoals and captain Matt Caldow four.
NEWTOWN & CHILWELL gave new coach Steve Johnson his first win with an 11-point triumph over Bell Park with Logan Morey starring on a wing and Cameron Wilkinson great in the ruck. Mitchell Mahady was good for the Dragons in defence.
PATRICKDowling’sreturntoStMary’safter a brief stint in the BFL was successful with four goals in an 82-point win against Geelong West.
Young Cats on the prowl with impressive victory
Lara’s youthful Geelong Netball League A Grade squad could be primed for bigger things this season.
The Cats started the season off with a 64 to 28 win against St Albans with 16-year-old defender Millie van Diemen best on court and another 16-year-old, Tilly Baker, set to join the squad in the next few weeks after she recovers from injury.
“My captain (Sharni Van Doren) is 21, I have two 16-year-olds and a couple of 20-year-olds,” coach Chris Camilleri said.
“We have two older players - Bridget (Kelly) who is 41 and Tori (Hoffman) who is about 30, but apart from that, the rest are all quite young, so it’s a good feel around the club at the moment.”
In very warm conditions, Lara never looked like losing and finished the game strongly, scoring 15 goals to three in the final quarter.
“That last quarter I specifically said this is where we’ve got teams down, we need to actuallyupitanddon’teaseoff,”Camillerisaid.
“I know it’s hot, everyone’s tired, but I want you to really up the pressure and put the sword to them. Really go for it and to their credit they did. The game slowed down in the last quarter. Everyone was pretty bloody hot and tired but they just kept the pressure on.”
Camilleri was most pleased with his side’s defensive efforts.
“Ourdefencewasgreat,butitwasafull-court defence,” he said.
“The attackers were working really hard to defend also, which made a big difference.
Leading the defence was my 16-year-old (van Diemen), who was fantastic yesterday. She played predominantly (as a) keeper, but also in goal defence. The way we transitioned from defence to attack was something we worked on during the week, which we hope to build on.”
While there is a long season ahead, Camilleri said success for his side would be continued improvement.
“I wouldn’t be talking finals or anything,” he said. “You never know as the season goes on, but as long as I can see improvement going into next season. I would hope for us to be moving up towards the middle of the ladder somewhere. If it’s beyond that great, but I’d still be looking to develop these girls over the next
two years or so.
“Now that we’ve got a stable base, we can keep that there for the next three to five years and build a strong foundation.
“Hopefully I can build a strong young team instead of trying to recruit older players and bring them in like a lot of clubs do. I prefer to have them homegrown so that we can keep them there for five years at least, not just people who only play for a short period.”
Newtown & Chilwell showed it will again be there at the business end of the season with a 63 to 39 win against a gallant Bell Park. The familiar trio of Vanessa Augustini at wing attack, Ruby Pekin-Schlicht in defence and Natalie Tommasini in midcourt proved too
good although Madison O’Keefe was superb for Bell Park.
South Barwon defeated Grovedale 72 to 30 and was in control all game. Olivia Cameron, Ellen Doyle and Monique Parker were rotated in attack very effectively while Taylar Borg was good in midcourt for the Tigers.
Geelong West was super impressive in its 52 to 38 win against St Mary’s. Goal attack Rachel Palmer-Brennan was best and Karina Martin was terrific in defence. Eliza Brown did all she could in defence for St Mary’s.
St Joseph’s defeated Leopold 63 to 16 with Ella Closter on fire in attack, contributing 46 goals.
Flynn
Justin
Left: Shaya Walter played well for St Albans. Right: Youngster and best on court Millie van Diemen jumps as Katie Loader takes a shot on goal.
(Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 470278
Above: Fletcher Keck marks and then kicks one of his three goals for St Albans. Inset: Rick Munn addresses his players during the break. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 470280
