Country Pride

Australian T20 captain and Colac local Aaron Finch gives us the lowdown on some of his favourite spots around Victoria.

He grew up in the state’s southwest, but has since travelled the world playing the game he loves. Having made his Test debut in 2018, Aaron Finch now captains the national Twenty20 team, a job he’ll relish when 15 other teams arrive in Australia for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup (16 October – 13 November).

“It’s going to be an incredible tournament and we’re really excited to have the best cricket nations in the world coming to compete,” says Aaron. “We go into this World Cup as the defending champions for the first time and we’re proud of that and want to perform well. On top of that, playing in front of your family and friends is always special, particularly in Melbourne.”

Here, Aaron shares some of his favourite spots in the state.

12 Apostles

Do you have a regular coastal getaway?

Having grown up in Colac, the Great Ocean Road is a favourite spot. The best experiences are when you extend your trip by a few days in a coastal town and enjoy the local hospitality.

Family-favourite restaurant for a Sunday get-together?

When I was the younger, the family would head down to The Union Club Hotel in Colac if it was special occasion.

Which winery would you recommend to visitors?

My wife and I often head to Zonzo winery and restaurant in the Yarra Valley, so I’d recommend that.

Is there a bakery you can’t go past?

Definitely Hulm’s Bakery in Colac. They do a really good pie.

Favourite craft brewery?

Little Creatures has a brewery in Geelong and it’s a good spot.

Is there a town you’ll always detour to visit?

I’m happy anywhere along the Great Ocean Road – Lorne, Apollo Bay and many more towns down that way. It’s a great part of Victoria. +t20worldcup.com

Flavour Town

Clyde Park Carli Wilson

A trip to Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula offers a world of taste, with new venues and old favourites to explore.

Only an hour from Melbourne, Geelong and the neighbouring Bellarine Peninsula is a popular destination with its beaches, cultural attractions and, increasingly, amazing food and wine offerings. Here’s a taste of what to expect.

Wine Time

Head to the Moorabool Valley, where a small band of impressive winemakers produce varieties like chardonnay, pinot noir, shiraz and more. Enjoy sweeping views of Clyde Park’s vineyard at its cellar door and bistro, where an Enomatic system means guests can taste even the Single Block wines. Austin’s has opened a cellar door in a converted shearing shed,with wine tastings, cheese platters and larger meals available on the weekends.

History Restored

The 134-year-old Portarlington Grand Hotel has just reopened. While many of the original elements of the hotel have been restored, there are now 18 beautifully appointed rooms, some with balcony access that overlooks the ocean. The elegant bistro downstairs is committed to the region, serving up Bellarine booze from the likes of Scotchman's Hill, The Whiskery and Terindah Estate, alongside a menu featuring local seafood and pub classics. Staying the weekend? It’s a great starting point for exploring the Bellarine Taste Trail. +visitgeelongbellarine.com.au