PUBLICATION OF THE ANGLESEA COMMUNITY HOUSE
ISSUE 133 AUTUMN 2018
More to Explore on Surf Coast Trails By Gary Robinson
Many Anglesea and Aireys Inlet residents live here because of their love for the environment and the beauty of the area. However, we all see and involve ourselves in the area in different ways. Some love the water, others the bush, while many embrace all aspects. The mountain bike (MTB) fraternity follows its own particular philosophy. Riding a push bike is a wonderful way to explore our beautiful area. Travelling 20-plus kilometres per hour ensures a greater distance can be explored in a shorter period of time than walking, and studies have shown that the effects on the trails between the Community Houses are for Everyone
two are no different.
Highlights Anglesea Junior Footy
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Rocky Road to Retirement
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I’m having a coffee with Brett Coleman, secretary of the Surf Coast Trail Group (SCTG), and Brett’s enthusiasm and obvious passion for this sport are contagious.
John Worrell Profile
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Oscars Hut2Hut
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ACN Launch by Lapsley
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Meet the Committee
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The SCTG is a group of passionate local trail riders and runners who aim to promote trail use in the Surf Coast area. They are a subcommittee of Geelong Mountain Bike Club Inc, with
Community Corner
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Anglesea Futures
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Community Celebration
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Book Reviews
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Bill Harding Exhibition
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Continued on page 4 > 1
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News from the House
Published By Anglesea Community House Inc. 9.15am - 2.30pm Monday - Friday (During school terms) 5 McMillan Street, Anglesea PO Box 43, Anglesea, VIC, 3230 Tel: 5263 2116 Fax: 5263 1077 Email: newsangle@anglesea.org.au
Feedback/Comments To be addressed to the NewsAngle Editorial Committee, c/o Anglesea Community House or by email.
Advertisers If you wish to book an annual or casual advertisement, please request an Order Form by email.
Contributors/Writers Please leave news items, order forms or notices at the Community House, or send by post or email and the Editor will get in touch with you.
Distribution NewsAngle is free of charge. Copies are distributed via Australia Post home delivery in Anglesea and PO Boxes in Aireys Inlet, as well as various shops/cafes in both towns.
By Sam Gault, President, Anglesea Community House Committee of Management
As the incoming President of the Anglesea & District Community House, I extend a warm welcome to all of our loyal NewsA ngle readers and advertisers. I hope you continue to enjoy our ever evolving (and dare I say improving) quarterly local magazine. Aside from publishing NewsA ngle, which is one of our more obvious services, we often get asked what we do here at the House. So much of what we do is embedded so deeply within our community that the efforts of our passionate, capable and dedicated staff and volunteers are sometimes not altogether obvious. With a new Committee of Management elected late last year, it is time to start blowing our own trumpet!! The core of everything we do is in response to the needs and aspirations of our community. We try to create opportunities for people to participate, engage and contribute. We do this by delivering lifestyle and vocational courses, children’s services, NewsAngle, community events and the community directory … together with the core House amenities– meeting room hire, photocopying, scanning, printing, access to computers, wi-fi and local advice.
We also support the community by allowing groups to be formally aligned with the House, thus being able to access the benefits of an incorporated entity without having to establish themselves independently. This helps community groups when it comes to seeking grants and the like. The groups we currently support include Foodlink, Anglesea & District Men’s Shed, Anglesea Community Rock Choir, Anglesea Skate Park and the local community gardens. If your group is interested in looking at this (it is called an ‘Auspice Arrangement’) please contact Alex at the Community House. In the next quarter, we showcase the talents of young photographers, so look out for the ‘Young Photographer’s Competition’, and we will welcome all new residents at our second ‘Welcome to Anglesea/Aireys Inlet’ on Thursday April 19, 2018. Naturally our regular classes in Pilates, Craft, Yoga and Ukulele will also be available . If you think we should be offering something new or different, please let us know at the House on 5263 2116.
NewsAngle is available online at www.anglesea.org.au
Deadlines Issue:
134
Casual ad bookings:
14 May
Articles/Contributions:
14 May
Subject to availability of space Distribution:
28 June
Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily those of the Community House.
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More to Explore on Surf Coast Trails > Continued from page 1
approximately 12 committee members and more than 2500 trail users connected to the group via Facebook and free newsletter updates. The group’s goals are to advocate for trails, assist with maintenance and liaise with the various land managers in order to retain a varied and interesting trail network in the area. They promote MTB riding and trail running as healthy, environmentally responsible pastimes that carry significant local economic benefits. They recognise that MTB is often plagued with misconceptions and they aim to demonstrate that MTB trails can be sustainable and when properly designed, good MTB trails and good environmental outcomes go hand-inhand.
The group formed in 2012 in response
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The Surf Coast Trail Group (SCTG) promotes trail use and maintenance in the local area.
to an audit organised by Parks Victoria of the popular but informal mountain bike network in the Eumeralla area bounded by Hurst Road, the Great
Ocean Road and the Eumeralla Scout Camp. Despite Anglesea being viewed as a popular trail destination, at that time
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there were no dedicated formal mountain bike trails within 10km of the town. Yet counters showed that each year thousands were riding these trails near Eumeralla, which had developed over the preceding 10-15 years. Local riders were concerned that the trails might be closed, so they came together under a united front. Four years of campaigning saw the majority of the trails finally formalised in December 2016.
Mountain biking has seen an acceleration of devotees in recent years and has been recognised as an activity that has ‘saved’ small country communities that have struggled to retain residents in sufficient numbers to be viable.
environmental groups, and are progressing towards achieving such a plan with the support of Surf Coast Shire Council.
birthday. Located opposite the school on Camp Road, it occupies one hectare of the 10-hectare block owned by Alcoa, adjacent to Betleigh Street.
They have been very active in the current ‘Anglesea Futures’ processes run by Alcoa and DEWLP, and believe that the outcome for the rehabilitated coalmine precinct and surrounding areas should include an extensive trail network.
The park is world-class, courtesy of the enormous amount of work that has been put in over the years by passionate riders of all ages.
They are buoyed by community feedback published by DEWLP in December 2017 (Anglesea Futures: Land Use Scenarios – Summary of Feedback) that there was overwhelming support for trails, with ‘active recreation’ ranking well above any other land use outcomes sought by the community in each of the five areas studied.
Forrest, in the nearby Otways, Derby in Tasmania and villages along the Wangaratta-to-Bright trail have been the major examples of towns supported by this activity.
However, according to SCTG, DEWLP’s subsequent ‘Anglesea Futures Draft Land Use Plan: December 2017’ fails to acknowledge the community’s sentiment and is far too restrictive towards the potential for future MTB trails in the study area.
Mountain bike trails need greater space than walking trails. Experience around others parts of Australia demonstrates that to attract visitors to come and stay in the region, approximately 80 to 100km of trails are required.
They believe that, in its current form, with a lack of allocated land for MTB trails and poor ability to connect trails, the chance to build a successful trail network that will truly benefit the local community will be lost.
Up until now, and for zero dollars, about 50 per cent of that distance already exists in the Surf Coast region in the form of formal and informal trails.
Another Anglesea attraction linked to SCTG is the Anglesea Bike Park, which recently celebrated its 11th
A visit on any weekend will inform the reader of the impressive number of visitors attracted to Anglesea for the purpose of using the site and its importance in building healthy children. Both DEWLP’s draft land use plan and Alcoa’s recently released plan for their freehold land have recommended the area be rezoned and subsequently sold to developers for housing and tourist accommodation. The Anglesea Bike Park committee, headed up by Mike Bodsworth and SCTG Chair, Tony Smales, is seeking ongoing community support. Their ‘Save Anglesea Bike Park’ campaign has so far attracted more than 5000 signatures via change.org and hardcopy petitions. The SCTG remains committed to working towards a world-class trail network for the region. Such a network is already halfway realised without any formal direction or funding. The ‘Anglesea Futures’ process offers a unique opportunity to realise that outcome on land well suited to recreational trail use.
The sport provides year-round experiences and Anglesea, with its surf beaches and river, offers a wide range of additional activities that other towns do not. So the opportunity for developing a package of activities around the mountain bike experience is an exciting possibility and one SCTG is currently developing. Following the formalisation of the Eumeralla Trails, the group is now working towards the development of a Surf Coast MTB Trail Strategy Plan. They convened a three-hour meeting in April 2017 with interested stakeholders, including land managers and
The Anglesea Bike Park attracts many visitors and local families for healthy outdoor fun.
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Anglesea Junior Footy ... Kicking Goals on and off the Field By Jenna Crawford
“Kick it to me, kick it to me” shout Anglesea’s junior footballers as they approach the big sticks. It is not only the on-field players who are kicking goals in the Anglesea Football and Netball Club Juniors … the whole organisation is scoring handsomely. Approximately 150 junior footballers took to the field in 2017, fielding teams at all levels from Under 10s to Under
18s. The Under 18s made it to the finals and the Under 14s were successful in making the Grand Final. These age level groups are governed by AFL Barwon Junior Football. The Under 16s and 18s sides were bolstered by a group of boys from diverse ethnic backgrounds who have found a new life in Australia. Two are from Thailand, two from the Congo and the others from South Sudan, Kenya and Afghanistan. Many of these teenagers have fled their countries of birth and were feeling ‘at home’ playing football for Anglesea. Getting the boys to training and then to games had been a major exercise as they live an hour away, but parents of other kids stepped in and were rostered to pick them up and take them home each week. The biggest winner has been the way it has united the football club and the community and the way they have been embraced by the other players. The development of football skills is a priority and coaching staff are keen to ensure that Juniors have the skills that may enable them to pursue a senior career or graduate to an AFL level. Geelong’s Patrick Dangerfield is a major success story from the Club and more recently, Josh Jaska has been drafted to the Gold Coast Suns. In becoming an AFNC member, you join a club that values sportsmanship and fair play. Winning is great but it is not the ultimate goal. The guiding principles underlying Anglesea Junior Football are to teach and educate young players to develop their skills, and also value fair play and sportsmanship, lessons that hopefully will remain with them forever. They come with a focus known as the four Fs – Fun, Fitness, Friendship and
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Football skills. The ultimate goal would be to field a women’s football team in the future. Paula Fowler, the Junior Football Coordinator, is responsible for coordinating coaches, standards, development and player/parent issues. Her roles for season 2018 currently include General Committee Member, Membership/Registration and Apparel Coordinator. She is also Team Manager for the Under 17s, which is her tenth year of managing a junior team. Jamie Mackenzie, Rob Benney, Ian Benney and Simon Findlay have filled the roles as Junior Coaches, with Dean Lobbe the welfare officer. The Junior Committee aims to fulfil the following:
the support from families and sponsorship to the club. “We live in a small community and commitment to sporting teams can be very rewarding for all.” If you are interested in training, running, first aid, time keeping, scoring or any other role, please contact Paula. A sponsorship package is available at four levels. By contributing as a sponsor, businesses and families become vital players in the on and off field success of the AFNC. The AFNC Community Gym is open for use by players (over 18), club members / sponsors and members of the community. Community members can also purchase an annual gym membership—see the AFNC website for more information and membership.
Junior Season Starts the Weekend of 14—15 April 2018 junior player online registration is now open via the club website at angleseafnc.com.au Training times are: U10s & U13s: 5pm - Wednesday U15s: 5pm - Monday / Wednesday U17s: 5pm - Monday / Thursday
Keep in touch with all updates via the Anglesea Football and Netball Club’s Facebook page or visit the website. For further information, contact Paula Fowler 0407 031 178 – Junior Coordinator. May the 2018 season reach all expectations and enjoy a high level of community involvement and fun.
Ensure equal opportunity, regardless of ability, size, shape, gender, age, disability or ethnic background; Ensure that the rules, equipment, game length and training schedules consider age, ability and maturity levels; Ensure supervision is by competent coaches and officials; Ensure that enjoyment overrides rewards; Promote fair play on and off the field by all involved; Promote respect for opponents. Paula emphasised the importance of
Last year’s Anglesea U16 football team, coached by Jamie Mackenzie.
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The Sometimes Rocky Road to Retirement By Mary Bremner
How many local retirees have been asked by city friends what they find to do on the Surf Coast? The implication seems to be that life is likely to be a bit boring in the sleepy back-waters of Anglesea and Aireys Inlet. Yet the truth is, that for many of us, a little boredom is something for which we yearn. Truthfully though, the road to a fulfilling life in retirement is not easy for everyone and there are many different pathways.
Some choose to ease into it gently, starting by scaling back to part-time work. Others go ‘cold turkey’. Many local residents maintain a base in Melbourne, while others make a clean break.
Christine Walker — Finding Her Feet in LifeAfter-Work Christine Walker is much admired for her contributions to the community since her full-time retirement in Anglesea six years ago. Yet even Christine confessed to having passed through an identity crisis before finding her feet in life-after-work. Originally trained as a librarian, Chris had 15 different positions over her working life, including stints in the legal sphere and in publishing, all fulltime except for a brief period when her daughter Lucy was a baby. Her move to Anglesea came after husband, Dr Ian McLeod, joined the Surf Coast Medical Clinic. After a period commuting to Monash University, where Chris was the Communications Manager for IT Services, she was delighted to secure a similar role closer to home at Deakin University in Geelong. Chris soon won a promotion to Director, Deakin Learning Futures, a challenging and demanding position that she enjoyed until she reached the age of 60 and decided, in her own
Chris Walker enjoys keeping busy in retirement but prioritises space in her schedule for family, particularly looking after her young grandchildren.
words, “It’s time!”. Retirement beckoned.
Chris was not prepared for what was to follow. She had to find a reason to get out of bed in the morning. Used to having people relying on her and asking her opinion, Chris missed feeling needed. In her own words, “I missed my diary, my PA and being important.” Chris kept her corporate wardrobe for two years. The couple would walk around the village on weekends and Ian seemed to know everyone. Chris felt the odd one out and realised that she needed to meet people and become part of community life.
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Chris started up a consulting business, which went well for a while. Some of the projects worked well online but it still involved driving to Melbourne. A turning point came at last when Chris found Seaside Seconds and fulfilment in helping people in need.
“I needed to get over myself! Volunteering is an enjoyable yet humbling experience,” Chris confided honestly. Communities like Anglesea don’t let people with the energy, enthusiasm and organisational skills that Chris possesses, lie idle for long. Membership of the local Red Cross unit proved a great way of finding like continued on page 10 9
The Sometimes Rocky Road to Retirement > continued from page 9
-minded people – Chris soon became branch secretary. She became a member of the local unit of the former Cancer Council and is now Secretary of Anglesea Performing Arts. She is convenor of the annual One-ActPlay Festival, still volunteers at Seaside Seconds and enjoyed some time behind the counter at the Anglesea Visitor Information Centre. Chris speaks with passion about a group she started in Anglesea, the Friends of Red Cross, a vehicle for people to meet socially at the Melaleuca Art Gallery in Anglesea and also to learn by listening to guest speakers while raising money for a worthy cause. With all this going on, Chris and Ian (now also retired) prioritise space in their schedule for their families, enjoying time with grandchildren in Launceston and Melbourne. They travel to Melbourne every week for a full day caring for their 20-monthold twin grandchildren.
John Cummings — A Different Path to Retirement John Cummings found quite a different path to a fulfilling retirement. John had two careers, the first spanned 10 years working in military intelligence and as a ‘translator’ for Defence Signals. In this job he learned to write computer programs, which introduced him to the information technology industry.
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His last job was with IBM Global Services. John left work to take fulltime care of his wife, who had a debilitating terminal illness.
He retired in 2000 at the age of 59 but was totally preoccupied with looking after his wife for the next four years and didn’t really have a chance to feel retired. After John’s wife passed away, it was difficult for him to distinguish between his feelings of grief and his sense of a loss of purpose through the end of his career. John felt that advances in IT has passed him by and he didn’t relish the thought of returning to the pressures and long hours of working for a multi-national company. John later married Margaret, who was keen on the move to Anglesea where she had a holiday house, but John was not so sure. It wasn’t long before the charms of the town won him over and he decided to make the move on a permanent basis. The couple had each spent many years caring for their former spouses and looked forward to living the ‘good life’ in Anglesea, enjoying their newly-built home and entertaining friends. But John soon realised he needed something to do.
After moving to Anglesea, John Cummings fixed people’s computers, making many new friends in the process.
He put up posters around town advertising that he could fix people’s computer problems.
In John’s words, he was “inundated”. Within 12 months, he found himself working eight hours a day, six days a week. John had worked in the IT industry – but not in this ‘hands on’ way. He taught himself how to pull computers to bits, replace the memory and fix viruses. John admits that during this time his best friend was “a bloke called Google”. John said he found it easy settling into small town life – he had grown up living in villages in England, and leaving the big metropolis for Anglesea felt like coming home.
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He was introduced down the street, “This is John. He fixes computers”.
Many of the people he met through this became close friends. He found some time for golf and kept up with family events, but was working too many hours to join organisations. John did this for eight years, but it started to get too much and he wanted to spend more time pursuing his other passion – genealogy.
With his ability to reinvent himself, John became skilled in family history and DNA research. It took him three attempts to shut down his computer repair business - there were some people to whom he couldn’t say “No”. John is now producing family trees, going back 15 generations to the 16th century, to be given as delightful wedding presents to his grandchildren. This pastime is not generating an income, but is giving him great pleasure. John is also helping other family members and friends through their ‘brick walls’ in tracing their forebears.
John and Margaret enjoy the ‘good life’ as retirees in Anglesea.
1. Devise a flexible plan to suit your new capacity. 2. Adjust your pace. 3. Manage (don’t juggle) priorities – family, social life, personal interests, community activities, while staying fit and healthy. 4. Connect to your new community – join a walking group, book club or yoga. Drink lots of coffee! 5. Keep learning.
6. Don’t volunteer for everything in order to keep busy. Consider each activity on its own merit. 7. Remain flexible – try saying “Yes” on a trial basis. You might engage another friend to help. 8. Be aware of others around you. Ask “How are you?” and listen carefully to the answer. Recognise loneliness.
9. It’s OK to read a book for the entire day.
Advice for Others? As for advice for those on the verge of retirement? John Cummings said you need to have something to do.
Develop a passion for something. This was certainly a winning formula for him. Chris Walker, who readily admits that she made a mistake in not doing the necessary soul searching and consciously thinking through what she wanted to get out of life when planning her retirement, has offered some tips for anyone facing this new stage. NewsAngle | Publication of the Anglesea Community House | Community Houses are for Everyone
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Where did YOU come from? By John Cummings
More and more people are becoming interested in genealogy and building their family trees and asking – where did I come from? I was adopted - who were my parents? Who are my ancestors? Are there any cousins out there I have never heard of? Most people researching their family history will be surprised at what they discover.
eventually you will probably find it necessary to take out one of their subscriptions.
One of my discoveries was that I am related to the Reverend Edward ‘The Martyr’ Wightman (1580-1612), a radical Anabaptist who was condemned by King James I – he was the last person to be burned alive at the stake in England because of his religious beliefs.
As you enter people into a tree, ANCESTRY searches through its massive database, and where possible, will give you hints of where there is further relevant data for that person.
Only a distant relation – the seventh great-grandfather of the wife of one of my second great-uncles – but a relation nonetheless. His wife and children immediately hightailed it to America. You can either start building your tree manually with pen and paper or you can use one of the many websites that offer this service.
Another way of finding ancestors and living relations is to take a DNA test. Once your test is processed, you get a report on people in the testing company’s database who match you at some level of relationship. Clearly the latter offers you more chances of finding people. Of the websites, ancestry.com (ANCESTRY) is currently the most popular and has the biggest database. You can join ANCESTRY on a free account and start building your tree but
I started out in this wonderful world of genealogy looking for my own biological father. Shortly before she died, my mother told me that the man I thought was my father – wasn’t. And she told me the name of the man who was and a little bit about him. I spent many years looking for this man and it was only through DNA testing that I found out who my father was. It wasn’t the man my mother told me. I now understand that she wanted me to know but couldn’t bring herself to tell me the truth.
One of my wife Margaret’s relations in Canberra knew who her maternal grandmother was but didn’t know who her maternal grandfather was. Her parents searched for years but to no avail. I offered to try and find him on condition she and other family members were prepared to take DNA tests, to which they agreed. I built her family tree on ANCESTRY as far back and out as I could. 12
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Start Learning and Do It Yourself There are plenty of self-help courses on the internet and if your family is closely tied to the Surf Coast, there is the Anglesea & District Historical Society family history group who will help you get started.
But it is very time consuming – and can become very addictive!
Anyone can start building their family tree, with plenty of self-help courses online, along with a variety of useful resources to help get you started.
It took two years of patient research, waiting and checking new DNA matches but eventually we found our man. There’s a very happy family in Canberra. Anyone can create a family tree and order a DNA test but it comes at a cost. Individual tests are reasonably priced, between $100 and $200, but it adds up when you need multiple tests. From time to time, most testing companies offer special deals that are very worthwhile. There are many organisations that provide valuable genealogical and family history data but most charge a subscription rate.
If I were to call it quits today, I would be about $2,000 better off each year. There are many genealogists who will build a family tree for you and arrange DNA tests but they charge professional rates – after all, it is their business. I doubt you will get one for less than $40 per hour and many charge much more. At $50 per hour, you get 20 hours for $1,000 and believe me, you can’t do much in 20 hours.
Besides ANCESTRY, other well accepted sites include MyHeritage.com, Family Tree DNA, Geni, FindMyPast and Familysearch.org (the LDS website, which is one of the few free sites). There are also some very useful family history groups on Facebook. And there are many family history blog sites. It can be very rewarding. I belong to a blog group where not a week passes that someone writes in to say they have finally found the biological ancestor they have been looking for. But a word of caution ... Every now and again I read that someone has discovered that the person they always thought was their mother/ father/grandparent/aunt etc, isn’t!
John Cummings has great advice for those wanting to research their family trees …. why not learn how to do it yourself? NewsAngle | Publication of the Anglesea Community House | Community Houses are for Everyone
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LOCAL PROFILE: JOHN WORRELL
Honouring a Surf Lifesaving Legend By Liz Clark
In acknowledgement of a lifetime's service to surf life saving, John Worrell was honoured to receive the Order of Australia medal (OAM) in the Queen's Birthday honours list for 2017. He was thrilled to receive this award but indicates that he was quite surprised, as he has just been doing the things he loves to do all his life. The list of previous awards received over many years proves that his has been an amazing life of dedication and commitment at local, state, national and international levels in the field of lifesaving: Foundation Member of Anglesea Surf Life Saving Club 1952 Member of the Board of Examinations Deputy State Superintendent 1965-72 Life Member—Brighton Life Saving Club 1953 Life Member—Anglesea Surf Life Saving Club 1964 Life Member—Surf Life Saving Victoria 1972 Life Member—Surf Life Saving Australia 1977
Australian Sports Medal 2000
Federation Sports Award 2001 Surf Life Saving Australia, 60 Year's Service Award 2012 Hall of Fame Legend Anglesea 2012 All this, he says, while just having fun.
John grew up in Hampton and Brighton, youngest of three children. He attended Hampton Primary School and Brighton Tech and studied automotive engineering at RMIT, leading to an apprenticeship and later permanent employment as a mechanic with his father. He joined the Scouts, becoming a King's Scout, played football for the Hampton Rovers, and spent many hours with friends at the local beaches.
Some of these young men were members of Brighton Life Saving Club and, in 1952, they were encouraged to begin a new club at Anglesea.
Teams were formed, skills were gained and they were on the way to winning their reel and line championship of Victoria, the first with more to come. Inaugural meetings to form the club were held in February 1952. Despite great local support, there were only a few volunteers who were already qualified to patrol the beach and train newcomers. One of John's earliest tasks was to recruit new members, so he joined the local golf club to encourage their members to provide support both in person and financially. They organised a ‘Golf Day’ (which continues today) to raise funds for equipment and storage facilities. Raffles at the Golf Day included donations of things like a bag of potatoes, a sheep, meat trays — whatever donors could offer, and finances slowly began to improve through hard work, companionship and general support. John bought an old two-bedroom house with no power, sewer or gas (“but at least we had a tank and a bathroom”) so that he could spend weekends in Anglesea with his family. John's stories are full of local history. Anglesea's first clubhouse was a very small tin shed, set into the sand dunes in the middle of the beach. It held a reel and “about two people with a squeeze”. There was no water available, which made it nearly impossible for the life guards to do duty for a full day — no mod cons for these young men! Tidal activity soon moved the sand, and the shed became rickety and collapsed.
John Worrell (centre) as coach of an early Anglesea Surf Club team. 14
A couple of local plumbers put a pipe under the road from a neighbouring
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John now lives in a house overlooking the Anglesea surf beach and can keep an eye on all activities that happen there. He looks forward to future clubhouse renovations, which will provide greater facilities for their many activities. He fondly recalls many happy family days on the beach, teaching hundreds of kids to swim (“I haven't yet seen a youngster who doesn't want to learn something�), how they made do with simple things — or nothing in former years. He marvels at advances in equipment and safety, and can tell a few stories about misadventures and questionable practices of days gone by.
A delightful sense of humour keeps life in perspective.
John Worrell was awarded an Order of Australia medal (OAM) for his lifetime service to surf life saving.
house to connect their first water supply. They made bricks for the new premises but a mighty storm was responsible for the destruction of this building before it was actually in use. This was the catalyst for building a more permanent and larger boat house with foundations embedded in something more reliable than sand.
Expertise, enthusiasm and genuine desire to spread the good work of lifesaving have all been motivating factors for John Worrell. Rewards (different from awards) have meant friendship and companionship, community involvement, a sense of great pride in jobs well done, ongoing involvement in something he loves to do in a place where he loves to be. As he approaches his 90th birthday, he is fully justified in being quietly pleased with his contributions to the learning and safety of many, many people. His family and our community enjoy the amazing legacy he has given us over many years of service.
Over the years, the group worked and struggled together, patrolling the beaches, learning new safety methods, winning awards and providing Anglesea with protection and a wonderful lifesaving service.
From these humble beginnings, Anglesea has grown into one of the nation's leading surf life saving clubs, noted for its innovation, its support to the overall development of members both as lifesavers and citizens, and its reputation as a family oriented club. John is rightly proud of the part he has played at Anglesea. A long association with state life saving has seen him working as a judge, on the Board of Examiners, as Deputy State Superintendent, on various committees that introduced innovative resuscitation methods, assistance in assessing suitability of beaches, and then setting up new clubs, leadership training and teaching. John says his most rewarding experience was to be part of a team that was invited to Hong Kong, Japan and Taiwan to train lifesavers to the highest standards, to help them prevent loss of life on their beaches. Students were taken through drills during the day, practised at night and were examined the next day. He feels he has left a wonderful legacy for them to learn and grow from Australian experience. NewsAngle | Publication of the Anglesea Community House | Community Houses are for Everyone
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Anglesea ALLSTARS Tackle the Oscars 100 Hut2Hut By Lynne Hume
We’ve met at 6am, three times a week, for more than 10 years now. Five women who’ve shared many adventures, ranging from overnight hiking, mountain bike riding, stand up paddle boarding, our own mini adventure races, surfing, walks, spin classes, boot camps, yoga, canoeing and more. It was on one of our early morning walks that we decided to participate in Oscars Hut2Hut, the 100km trek through Victoria’s high country from 14-16 February. Only in its second year, Oscars 100 Hut2Hut was touting that it was a potentially life-changing and life affirming challenge. It was certainly life-changing for those on the receiving end of funds raised by the event – families and children living with autism. We met with event director, Chris Ord, who put it plainly, “I don’t want to put you off,” he said, “but this event is like the Oxfam100 on steroids. It’s brutal!”
We shivered with delight, our eyes widened and we laughed at the evocative mountain names we were to climb: Refrigerator Gap, The Bluff, past Hell’s Window, up Big Hill, Mt Howitt then onto Mt Buggery via Horrible Gap to Mt Speculation while traversing the Cross Cut Saw. We studied maps and saw photos of the spine tingling ridges and rocky climbs to be done. Our legs didn’t flinch at the thought of trekking Mt Buller summit twice (the first and last bits of the event). We knew there were 5600 metres of ascent and we had only 55 hours to finish. We were not deterred.
The trek had a charming element as well, for we were to camp beside Lovicks Hut and King Valley Hut and pass by Bluff Hut, Gantner Hut, Craig’s Hut and Mustering Flat – representing the pioneering history of the high country. Yes – we were keen and quickly recruited a few more to make up four teams of two people – seven from Anglesea and one from Torquay. We registered as the ANGLESEA ALLSTARS and began training nearly six months out from the event. Over the six months, we travelled twice to the high country to explore some of the course and similar terrain, we discovered and walked the steepest of trails and four-wheel-drive tracks out the back of Anglesea, Aireys Inlet and Lorne.
We tossed 10kg packs on our backs like they were beach bags and made treks to Aireys for coffee or Barwon Heads for lunch. We learnt a new language as we started to talk to trail runners about gear, how to overcome injury and build our strength. We learnt the nicknames of the steepest roads we found, learnt to use a compass and each one of us shared our strengths to support each other. Everything grew. Our knowledge of where we live, our physical and mental strength and importantly our friendships, the trust and deep respect we had, deepened.
Who are the ANGLESEA ALLSTARS? From left: Trevor Mildenhall, Kylee Hatwell, Lynne Hume, Gerry Verdoorn, Tanya Wilson, Melinda Solly, Janet Foster and Tim Powell. 16
The event loomed and our minds turned to the purpose of Oscars 100 Hut2Hut – to raise awareness and money for services to support children and families living with autism.
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We all pitched in with the wonderful support of our extended friendship group to host the very successful community event ‘Gather in the Garden’. More than 100 people attended an evening in Anglesea Community Garden, listening to gorgeous tunes by Bec Goring, while enjoying a feast of tacos and Portuguese tarts. The evening, together with a raffle of generous donations, raised over $3,300. Extraordinary! We’ve only just completed the walk and we still feel raw, exhilarated, happy, sad, amazed and bewitched by the whole experience. Chris was right – it was brutal, it was life-affirming and life-changing.
and so many hugs. We slipped down steep rocky tracks that would test our knees and will, crossed rivers thigh deep, climbed up breathtakingly steep hills while always watching our step – careful to stay on track and not slide over the edge. We were humbled by the generous support of strangers and volunteers who worked all hours to keep us fed, watered and safe. We saw ourselves and others extend arms and hearts of compassion in moments of need. We were up at 3.45am to pack our tents and be walking by 5am only to get into camp about 8pm to put up our tents, eat and sleep, to do it all over again.
Not all of us completed the whole 100km but we all gave it all we had.
At times we were reduced to the task of just putting one foot in front of another, drawing in the oxygen to get our legs up that hill.
We struggled with our own difficulties and challenges. We drew on strength, courage and inspiration we didn’t know we had. We wept, we sweated, we laughed and we wept. So many tears
At other times, as we stood on a precipice of a mountain’s edge, we felt an extraordinary gratefulness to fill our lungs with clear fresh wilderness air. To settle our heart rate, to feast on a
NewsAngle | Publication of the Anglesea Community House | Community Houses are for Everyone
never-ending view of mountain after mountain and to just breathe. While we didn’t all cover the 100km in 55 hours, we all created our own experiences in the love and warmth of trusted friendship, made a difference to the fundraising cause and grew much more than we ever anticipated when we blindly agreed to give this event a crack. There are so many people to thank for their wonderful support in our training, our fundraising, during and post Oscars 100 Hut2Hut: Bea Lipson, Margot Smith, Anglesea Community Garden, Anglesea Community House, Bec Goring, Robyn Lucas, our families, Chris Ord, Simon Williams, our various health practitioners and Oscars Hut2Hut. To learn more about the event, go to www.hut2hut.oscars100.com.au P.S. Oscars 100 Hut2Hut is an event for trail runners and trekkers. The winner of the trail run made it in 15½ hours … now that’s brutal!!
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Craig Lapsley Launches Anglesea Community Network (ACN) By Gary Robinson
Craig Lapsley, Emergency Management Victoria (EMV) Commissioner, recently delivered a speech to a packed Anglesea hall on the topic of resilient communities. His point was that resilience is fundamental and is created by effective and practiced connectedness across a community. This is a role that the recently formed Anglesea Community Network (ACN) is embracing. Guests at the meeting included Richard Riordan, Member for Polwarth; Heidi Victoria, MP, Shadow Minister for Tourism and Events; Sarah Henderson, Federal Member for Corangamite; along with Surf Coast Shire Councillors Margot Smith, Libby Coker and Martin Duke, and CEO Keith Ballie. Commissioner Lapsley discussed the difficulties for emergency services when engaging with a community both during and post catastrophic events, when that community was poorly connected. It was from this challenging situation that EMV initiated a search for a better model. After wide-ranging discussions with community leaders over several months, the conclusion was that a resilient community is a well-connected community, and it is this model that EMV is spreading across Victoria … and the model ACN seeks to promote for Anglesea. ACN believes that not only will this
model work effectively for the community in times of stress but will also create better awareness of activities underway or planned for the town. Already the ACN, which meets monthly, is working with groups in the town to better inform residents of the various and diverse activities.
Questions for the Community to Consider For the ACN, Commissioner Lapsley suggested that the community has two vital questions to consider: 1. How do we connect the networks that already exist in our community? 2. Who are the leaders in our community? Considering the first question, these connections need not happen in any hierarchical way, but peer-to-peer, between each other, to allow important information to be disseminated through those trusted networks and not just as a message from ‘CFA Victoria’. These existing networks (of clubs and organisations) are the trusted networks to which people look for reliable information.
As for leaders in our community, one might consider the leaders of local organisations to be the community’s trusted leaders. But, in times of stress, sometimes it’s others who take charge. Who are they and are they willing to step-up and lead in case of emergency? If not, who in our local community might be?
What About Sirens? Responding to a question from the floor as to why sirens had not been introduced into Anglesea, Lapsley stated that although he is a supporter of sirens, he sees them as one part of a range of tools EMV is considering, and only one part of a warning system of tools that would be considered for application in the near future.
In Conclusion The meeting concluded with a statement that the ACN will only succeed if individuals in Anglesea become directly involved and own its future. Otherwise it may not flourish and the community will risk losing a wonderful opportunity to connect and make living in this beautiful part of the world, even more enjoyable.
Residents and leaders of the Anglesea community gathered at the Memorial Hall to hear Craig Lapsley speak about resilient communities. 18
NewsAngle | Publication of the Anglesea Community House | Community Houses are for Everyone
New Joy for Novice Carpet Bowler By Terrence Hoffmann
Stan commenced with a super shot. A looping trajectory took the bowl gently to the kitty* where it stopped, almost touching. My turn. I aimed at the same arc that Stan had taken. My finger touched the carpet as I released the bowl and started a wobble that took the bowl straight off the mat. (*#@!*)
As the bowl neared the kitty, the others got excited. Could this be true? A good shot from the newcomer? “A beauty!”, they cried out. One black was the call. I grinned all over.
There are some safe topics: moaning about the cricket, bagging Collingwood, boasting about fish caught this week or the size of one’s strawberries.
Stan took his next turn. Wonderful, smooth shot, leaving the bowl nestled beside the first. Two red was the call.
I have taken to playing indoor bowls with five new friends each week. It is addictive.
However, this group is not into small talk or enquiries after one’s family or the interests pursued when not bowling. We are there to laugh together and enjoy ourselves.
My turn again. Keep calm.
I swung my arm through in a practice run to make sure I kept clear of the carpet this time. Then back and release. It went off perfectly. This time the bowl went where I intended. But even better. A lovely arc took the ball, with a little more force than Stan had used, right to the closer of his bowls, knocking it away and leaving my bowl touching the kitty.
The other five are all very accomplished players and have played together for some time. They can all play shots that are as good as can be seen. I manage one or two such shots each week. But I’m aiming for more. The game itself is the attraction. The company is good, but the focus on the game means that much of our conversation is about what we are doing rather than wider issues.
There are three players to each team and we select a different combination each week. Two players lead off. I am normally in the lead group. It takes the pressure off. Besides, sometimes a poor shot that goes too long will become important later when someone else moves the kitty down the mat where your bowl sits. Second pairs have something to aim at. They tend to bowl more boldly as they may hit an opponent’s bowl or their own as a tactic to move them forward out of the way and then roll closer to the kitty. The last pair of bowlers takes this boldness to further heights as they control the end game. We cheer each other’s successes and applaud the seemingly impossible. These words were written after I had played my first three weeks of carpet bowls at the senior citizens club. Sadly, Stan is no longer with us but has left an indelible imprint on our weekly gatherings. We now compete against each other for the honour of winning the best singles bowler, the ‘Stan Stott Cup’. The game continues without him but will always be played as he wanted — fairly, fiercely and in the best spirit. Visit the Senior Citizens at 1.30pm on Tuesday afternoons to catch the excitement, or maybe even join in yourself. Ring Joe on 0412 961 041 for more information.
Indoor bowls at the Anglesea Senior Citizens Club has proven very addictive for some players and a great way to have fun! NewsAngle | Publication of the Anglesea Community House | Community Houses are for Everyone
*Kitty is the small white ball (like ’jack’) that defines the target, or mark, for all other bowls to be played towards. 19
ANGLESEA COMMUNITY HOUSE The ‘Anglesea Community House Photography Award’ is designed to support and encourage the development of photographic skills and provide an opportunity for young aspiring photographers to showcase their talent and skills.
Who can take part? You must be between 5-17 years of age on the closing date of 20 April 2018, and you must live, study or work in Anglesea, Aireys Inlet, Fairhaven, Moggs Creek or Eastern View.
There are 3 Categories of Entry: Primary: 5 to 8 years
Junior: 9 to 12 years
Senior: 13 to 17 years
How to Enter Get your entry form from our website anglesea.org.au and submit it with your photos to the Anglesea Community House no later than 3pm on 20 April 2018.
For further information contact Anglesea Community House on 5263 2116 or email admin@anglesea.org.au
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All entries must be accompanied by parent/ guardian consent form. Photos that include people under 18 years must be accompanied by written permission from the parent, guardian or carer of that person.
NewsAngle | Publication of the Anglesea Community House | Community Houses are for Everyone
A ‘Q&A’ WITH ...
The Anglesea Community House How well do you know your Community House? In this edition of NewsA ngle, we take a closer look at the Anglesea & District Community House, which at its core is here for you, the community. Did you know that … ? NewsAngle is prepared and published by Anglesea Community House, and its cost is supported by advertising from local businesses. Your Community House exists to support and empower individuals to develop community spirit and cooperation. It endeavours to be responsive to community needs and to disseminate information. The House is open from 9.15am to 2.30pm, Monday to Friday during school terms.
It is possible to hire the Community House rooms, with computer use and photocopying services available to the public at cheap rates. The Community House governance lies with a local Committee of
Management (find out who they are on pages 22-23 of this issue). The Anglesea Community House is a member of the Neighbourhood House network. Your Community House runs the Anglesea Occasional Child Care service and the Resale Shed at the Anglesea Transfer Station. The House also supports other local organisations, including: Anglesea and District Men’s Shed Community Gardens at Aireys Inlet and Anglesea Anglesea Skate Park Committee Foodlink Anglesea Community Rock Choir Next year the Community House will be 30 years old.
NewsAngle | Publication of the Anglesea Community House | Community Houses are for Everyone
Each term, many learning programs and opportunities are offered, sharing skills and knowledge. The website for the Community House is anglesea.org.au The Community House and Child Care is located in the community precinct in McMillan Street, Anglesea (entrance 4) co-residing with the Community Garden, Historical Society, Medical Centre, Senior Citizens and Kindergarten. You can become a member and support your Community House. It is as easy as a quick visit, filling in a short form and paying an annual subscription of just $5. Look out for the next edition of NewsAngle where our Q&A will look at one of our supported organisations.
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Meet the Committee - and say hello! With a new Committee of Management elected late in 2017 to oversee and manage the Anglesea Community House, it is an opportune time to learn more about who is on the committee. Next time you see them out in our community, please stop and say hello! Name: Sam Gault Background: Country Victoria (Mildura) born, educated in Melbourne. I have been lucky enough to have worked in many different roles throughout life’s stages; in law, in telecommunications and more recently in project work. I have sat on the Ethics Committee of the Alfred Hospital and am currently serving as President of the Anglesea Community House. I’m married with one teenage son, three grown up step-children (not to mention a wonderful nearly two-year-old grand-
Name: Martin Coker Background: I was brought up in Beaumaris (Melb) and lived by the sea in a beautiful environment. I played lots of sport - tennis, golf, sailing at Black Rock Yacht Club and I learnt to fly light planes when I was 17. I’m the first child of four siblings, son of Fran and Jack Coker. When I left school, my first job was as customs agent. Fran and Jack bought a Mitre 10 hardware in Port Macquarie, where I managed the store for five years.
Love about our Coast: Access to unspoiled nature. Walks on the beach Challenge: To reinvent ourselves following our move here from Melbourne … and sand in the house. Why Join the Committee? To meet people when we first moved here. Now it is to connect with people of like mind and make sure that others can connect if they want to. It’s cheesey but I would like to make a positive contribution to the town. I think it is incumbent on all of us to contribute to the greater good. I worked for one of the first architects to build houses with environmental design principles. I am currently running my own building maintenance business. I have Fine Arts Degree and Cert 4 in Human Resources Management. Love about Coast: I love the community, environment and the people. Why Join the Committee? I wanted to be involved in the community and to give something back.
Upon return to Melbourne, I worked in various management roles in retail and sales.
I joined Foodlink and then subsequently joined the Committee of Management for the Community House.
Name: Rev Margaret Russell
back to the community, and this passion resulted in being awarded an OAM several years before relocating to Anglesea with my husband John and subsequently volunteering with the Community House.
Background: I have lived in Anglesea for three years and been a member of the Anglesea and District Community House COM for two years. I originally trained and worked as a physiotherapist, later becoming a minister of religion in the Uniting Church.
I also have a post-graduate diploma in Quality Management in Health Care, have worked as a Senior Program Advisor for DH&CS, and managed several health and community service delivery organisations. Now retired, I retain a passion for giving 22
child!) and a big golden retriever named Tank.
Why Join the Committee? I believe the Community House is a vital link within our community, providing education, information, support and empowerment for individuals and enhancing community connectivity. I would like to see more people involved as members of the Community House, people who like to be involved in their community and who are willing to assist when and as they can.
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Name: Annette Dwyer Background: In 2005, Bob and I became permanent residents of Anglesea after being holiday-makers for 13 years.
I have a Diploma of Teaching (Primary). I taught for 36 years in the northern suburbs of Melbourne, with a 10-year break to be home with our young children, Marcus and Julia.
uniqueness of the four Christian churches meeting and worshipping together every three months and the dream that many have to be ‘one’ is a venture I would love to see happen.
As well as teaching at all levels, I held leadership positions in curriculum development and working with parents whose children were experiencing social issues at school. Teaching was a passion I enjoyed immensely.
Challenge: The main challenge we have living here is the distance we need to travel to visit our immediate family, but on the long trips it is a good chance for Bob and I to have quality time together too!
Love about our Coast: We love living on the coast because we have found a small town that cares about and supports people so generously in a beautiful relaxing environment.
Why Join the Committee? As I love working for others, when approached to join the committee, I treated it as a wonderful way to learn about how our community works together.
I love the friendliness of retailers and the personal greetings you always get when at the shopping centre.
I have been on the Committee of Management for over 12 years, currently holding positions of Secretary /Public Officer and the Licensee for Child Care.
It is a town that is receptive to new ideas. This is seen through the My wife and I built a new house and moved in as full-time residents in 2007. I began working in Melbourne as a Training Officer in the Postmaster Generals Department and then Australia Post. I worked in various positions in HRM. A job at Prahran CAE as a Lecturer in the School of Business led me to work as an academic for 20 years, finishing at Deakin University. Then I worked for a number of years as a management consultant, specialising in Instructional Design.
Name: Terrence Hoffmann Background: I bought a beach house at Aireys Inlet in 1980, using the weekender regularly until I retired.
Love About our Coast: Originally from Geelong, I holidayed at Christmas with my family at Lorne, Wye River and Apollo Bay.
Thirteenth Beach, Torquay and Anglesea were the local beaches my family most often visited for a swim on hot days. The Surf Coast has always been a favourite part of my world. Why Join the Committee? To share my skills and use my experience to contribute to the community. Since retiring, I have been active in several local community groups. I worked on the committee that established the Aireys Inlet Community Garden and was its Coordinator for several years. I am currently Coordinator of the Anglesea Community Rock Choir, a keen carpet bowler at the Senior Citizens and a volunteer at the Community House, helping with fundraising and writing for NewsAngle.
New Residents Meeting at
Anglesea Community House
Thursday 19 April, 4.30—6.30 pm Entrance 4, 5 McMillan St Anglesea Refreshments provided
Want to know more about your new community? Come along to this friendly get together and find out what is available in Anglesea ...
Please RSVP by 29 March to 5263 2116 NewsAngle | Publication of the Anglesea Community House | Community Houses are for Everyone
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Community Corner WANTED
Someone to play chess weekly in Aireys Inlet on Tuesdays between 9am — 12 noon. Further enquiries, phone Alison on 5289 6085 and please leave a message.
NEW BOOK CLUB FOR ANGLESEA? A story is always better if you have someone to share it with. What could be better than sharing it with a group of friends who have read it too? We are currently taking expressions of interest for anyone who would like to join a new book club, which would meet monthly at the Anglesea Community House. If you and/or someone you know would like to come along to have a chat about when, where and what, we will arrange a get-together to decide on the details ... and get started!
Fire Lines By Tony Revell CFA Anglesea, Community Engagement
Have You Considered Becoming an Anglesea CFA Volunteer?
The Anglesea Fire Brigade is currently seeking new members who are interested in a challenge, with the reward of helping the community. We are a volunteer organisation that relies on local people who want to create a safer community, protect people, property and our environment. Without volunteers, your Brigade wouldn’t exist. Our members are a diverse group of men and women of all ages and come with varied backgrounds, interests and skills. The common thread throughout is that we all seek to make a difference and contribute to the Anglesea community. Volunteers can make a difference in more ways than one and may become involved in a variety of activities. Operationally, we responded to 96 incidents within our region last year. This included fires, motor vehicle accidents and support to other emergency services. In addition to the operational responses, we are also active in fire prevention, community education, brigade administration and fundraising. We also run a Junior Brigade program. It is not necessary to have experience to join the brigade. We will provide you with the skills needed for operational roles. CFA volunteers receive nationally recognised and accredited training courses that can be beneficial in both personal and employment environments. Interested in finding out more? An Information Session will be held at the Anglesea Fire Station on Wednesday, 18 April at 7.00pm. You will have the opportunity to meet other volunteers, ask questions and tour the station.
Volunteering information is also available from CFA at www.cfa.vic.gov.au
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NewsAngle | Publication of the Anglesea Community House | Community Houses are for Everyone
Community Corner
What’s On ‘April Sun In Cuba’ Salsa Dance Party
By Ward Councillor Margot Smith
A Pivotal Time in Anglesea’s History
Sunday, 15 April, 1-7pm at The Aireys Pub
Anglesea is at a pivotal time in its history, with draft plans for the former Alcoa mine site considered by Council and our engaged community. It is pleasing to see passionate people providing input about options for the site, including water flows into the Anglesea River to maintain water levels, renewable energy, an interpretation centre, recreational activities, shared trails, residential development, tourism accommodation and protection of environmental assets. The study site is also home to the Anglesea Bike Park. Its future is unclear. As a Council, we’re dedicated to a bike park in Anglesea and we’re undertaking a study with Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) and the bike park community to assess possible locations, including the current one.
The Small Grants Program supports community groups, projects and initiatives. It is a grassroots grants program that helps to build vibrant and healthy local communities. Aireys Inlet Primary School benefitted from the previous round, receiving $1000 to contribute towards an LED lighting educational program. This round closes 31 March 2018. Visit www.surfcoast.vic.gov.au/grants for more information and to apply.
Easter Long Weekend After an action-packed summer, our peak visitor season will culminate following the Easter long weekend.
The community has invested much time and effort into the Anglesea Bike Park over many years and I understand their passion to retain it.
Our economy is driven by tourism and we’re fortunate that Anglesea and Aireys Inlet offer an unrivalled natural environment.
The park provides an excellent recreation experience, and important health and wellbeing benefits. Council will advise the community of opportunities to contribute to the options assessment. The bike park study is scheduled to be considered at our May Council meeting.
Anglesea is a short drive from the world-famous Rip Curl Pro Bells Beach, which will take place over the Easter weekend. We’ll continue to live up to our title as an adventure destination, with Kids Adventure Outdoors (KAOS) Anglesea to be held 7 - 8 April.
Submissions by interested community members were also made to the Alcoa Draft Plan and the DELWP Draft Plan for the site earlier in March.
It’s an adventure festival designed especially for kids and families, offering a range of outdoor activities in our natural landscapes.
Small Grants Program
For those who are venturing away this Easter period, I hope you travel safely.
On a different note, the latest round of our Small Grants Program is open and there is still a small window of time in which to submit an application.
For those staying local, enjoy the wonderful coastal atmosphere of Anglesea, Aireys Inlet and surrounds.
NewsAngle | Publication of the Anglesea Community House | Community Houses are for Everyone
Following the overwhelming response to our salsa party in August last year, Surfcoast Salsa, in conjunction with 'Latin Dance Tribe', is hosting another awesome, funfilled event at The Aireys Pub. It will be jam-packed with dancing fun, live music by the awesome funky latin band 'Los Locos', salsa dance lesson and demonstrations by the amazing 'Florencia & Manuel' (principals of Latin Dance Tribe) https://candeladance.com.au/ The event suits ages 18 and over but supervised kids are welcome. Those 15 and under are free. Drinks/food at bar prices. $25 pre-purchase tickets online (see link below) or $30 at the door https://www.trybooking.com/UJMK
Did you know there is an ‘Events’ page on the Anglesea Community House website? To learn more about events and activities in our area, visit the Anglesea Community House website at : www.anglesea.org.au/events
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LOCAL PROFILE: MARK BURROWS
A ‘Buzz’ on our Coast By Gary Robinson
Most of us save our pennies and dream of a life on the coast. Mark ‘Buzz’ Burrows was born into that dream. The youngest of four boys, Buzz is a fourth-generation Anglesea-ite, who is the great grandson of Jack Ingram, after whom Ingram’s Road is named. Mark was born to Peter and Grace Burrows, who some may remember had the local fruit and vegetable shop in the main street for many years (where the newsagency is now). Mark did his primary school years in Anglesea, with many of his classmates the sons and daughters of Alcoa workers. Sadly, the majority of these friends have now left Anglesea and friendships formed back then have largely disappeared. During his younger years, Buzz worked in several local small businesses in town, including the Mobil Service Station (now Anglesea Surf Centre) pumping petrol, selling newspapers – learning quickly that he could make a few bob selling them at the pub too – as well as working at the local butcher shop owned by Ray and Veronica Shaw and, on Saturday mornings, cleaning the shop front, which is now the shop for Great Ocean Properties. No job was too small and Mark learnt quickly the importance of customer service during this time.
The love of his community led Mark to seek employment locally and he landed a position as apprentice plumber to the then rather large coastal plumbing company known as Diamond Plumbing. During his apprenticeship, he was exposed to many facets of plumbing, including large commercial, new residential and general maintenance plumbing. He also took on the extra task of attending night school to complete a Business Management course. Buzz travelled to many locations during his apprenticeship, with one major commercial job in particular (the Cumberland Resort, 1989) leading him to meet his now wife Leonie. Not long after Buzz completed his apprenticeship, the ‘Recession that Australia had to have’ forced him to consider other options. He joined forces with a fellow Diamond employee, Jim Hurley, and formed the partnership known as M&J Plumbing.
Even in a recession, the boys ran a successful business but as families grew and interests changed they amicably dissolved the partnership, with Buzz going out on his own. Roadknight Plumbing Pty Ltd was created and is now in its 20th year of serving the local community. With Leonie managing the administration side of the business, Buzz has been able to keep up-to-date with new and everchanging plumbing products, while delivering service in a timely and professional manner.
Managing a successful business on our coast can be difficult. Mark knew the business was directly linked to the seasons and vagaries of the weather. These uncontrollable variations meant staff management was not easy and keeping staff employed was a challenge. Maintenance work was always high in summer and markedly reduced in winter. Whilst the business was growing, so was Buzz’s and Leonie’s family. They have three children, Imogen, Caleb and Joshua. You can’t miss the boys, they are already as tall as their dad, with Caleb choosing to follow in his father’s footsteps as an apprentice at Roadknight Plumbing. Buzz hopes to instil the same passion and desire in his children for our coastal community that he still feels strongly about today. His dream is to see the family business continue with son Caleb (and Joshua if he chooses to join the ranks) but that is still a way off. Buzz still enjoys the challenge and variety that plumbing provides every day, as well as the chats with his customers new and old.
Mark Burrows (left) was born and bred in Anglesea, and now has son Caleb working alongside him in the family business. 26
Mark ‘Buzz’ Burrows is widely known in the township of Anglesea and can be reached for all plumbing and gas fitting needs at mark@roadknightplumbing.com.au or by calling him on 0409 940 055.
NewsAngle | Publication of the Anglesea Community House | Community Houses are for Everyone
Tech Angle By Chris Dos
WHAT I DID LAST SUMMER ...
The kids were completely exhausted from their day at the beach and just wanted to relax in front of a movie. Of course, everybody wanted to watch something different. Also, the internet service out here on the fringe is, like our phone reception, flukey at the best of times. I’ve amassed quite a collection of movies and TV over the years (all legally I’ll have you know!) but the lack of storage space and rather strict format rules have meant they generally couldn’t be loaded on to our old iPads for the kids to enjoy. I spied the USB port on our router and had an idea. *Warning - technical advice to follow* I logged in to the router and set up a ‘shared drive’, available to anyone on our home network. Next I filled a USB drive with movies, TV shows, music and other interesting stuff and plugged it in to the router. Finally I downloaded an app that lets you connect to this drive from your device. Less than 10 minutes later the kids were all watching their preferred show - quietly, and I was free to spend some quality time with the barbecue.
Google “set up a shared drive on your home router” for instructions. Share your movies, share photos, share the shopping list - it’s easy.
NEW NBN DEALS AWAIT YOU! Now I’d like to quickly revisit a subject from last year. Those of us who live outside the big city (of Anglesea) have continued to wait patiently for the NBN. Keen eyes would have no doubt spotted the bright green cable being un-reeled around Aireys Inlet, Fairhaven and Moggs Creek.
The NBN rollout site now shows the build has commenced in these areas and should be available from April 2018. Maybe you’ve received invitations from the internet providers seeking your business already. The NBN will carry both your internet and home phone, so many people will be changing plans they’ve had in place for a long time. Providers know this is a great time to pinch customers from each other, so don’t be shy in driving a hard bargain. Why should you pay set up fees? Why shouldn’t you get free calls to mobiles? It’s not often the consumer has the upper hand, so use it to your advantage! NewsAngle | Publication of the Anglesea Community House | Community Houses are for Everyone
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NewsAngle | Publication of the Anglesea Community House | Community Houses are for Everyone
Community Gives Feedback on ‘Anglesea Futures’ Land Use Plan By Chris McNamara, Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Barwon South West
The Anglesea Futures Draft Land Use Plan was released for feedback in December 2017. Community feedback was sought on the proposed land uses for land north of Anglesea following the closure of the coal mine and power station. The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, Barwon South West Regional Director, Christine Ferguson said:
“The area is changing and we are guiding its future to ensure it makes a positive contribution to Anglesea and the region.” 6995 hectares of land has been identified for conservation in the Draft Land Use Plan, with some remaining areas with limited environmental values being identified for alternative uses. Possibilities include recreational activities, renewable energy infrastructure and tourism to provide local jobs and services, support the economy and improve access to the environment.
Fifteen hectares of the land has been identified for a potential combination of residential, tourism and accommodation, north of Betleigh Street and Wilkins Street. Residential use is not proposed in the former coal mine or power station area. The Draft Land Use Plan will help inform future detailed design and decision making. It has also been informed by the area’s attributes, including environmental and cultural significance, bushfire risk and the future land form as identified in
The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning, ran an Open Day earlier this year to seek community feedback about the Draft Land Use Plan for Anglesea.
Alcoa’s Draft Mine Rehabilitation and Closure Plan.
Alcoa land would require an agreement between Surf Coast Shire and Alcoa.
Opportunities identified by the local and regional community and stakeholders, together with relevant policy, have informed the Draft Land Use Plan.
Alcoa has prepared a draft concept plan for their land, which does not include a bike park.
The Bike Park
DELWP is working closely with Council to consider options for the bike park, including possible locations on nearby public land.
Community feedback has featured passionate and diverse views on key issues, including the bike park which is currently located on Alcoa land.
Feedback received is being considered as part of the preparation of the Final Land Use Plan.
The Draft Land Use Plan highlights that the bike park is an important Council facility for the community.
Information about the Land Use Plan and the Anglesea Futures Community Conversations is available online at:
Retention of the current bike park on
www.delwp.vic.gov.au/anglesea-futures
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TWITCHERS’ CORNER Written and illustrated by Kaye Traynor
Common Bronzewing Phaps chalcoptera A medium-sized, heavily-built, grey-brown pigeon with pale-edged feathers that give it a scaly appearance. It has distinctive head markings, a dark-brown crown, yellow-white forehead and a dark line through the eye to the bill. The breast is pinkish-grey and paler towards the belly. The female is less colourful, with grey on the forehead and breast. The Bronzewing takes its name from the conspicuous wing patch of iridescent bronze, green and purple. Common Bronzewings can be found in a number of habitats from forests, woodlands, mallee, acacia thickets, coastal tea-tree, banksia, and heathland. They range throughout Australia, excluding Cape York Peninsula and the dense rainforests. They prefer to walk from place to place when in the scrub. They are shy, wary birds and, when disturbed, they rise with a loud wing clatter. They fly close to the ground with swift, powerful, steady wingbeats. They breed throughout the year, but mostly from July to January. Nest sites vary greatly. They can be found in high horizontal limbs in forests, low shrubs, or among rocks on the ground. The nest can be quite sparse or a substantial platform, in which two white, oval eggs are laid. During the breeding season, their call is a long series of deep, resonant and mournful ‘oom’ sounds. They are also ventriloquial which makes locating them, difficult. The main diet consists of seeds and native plants from a variety of sources. In pastoral areas they feed on wheat grain and seeds along the roadside, mainly in the early morning and late afternoon. They generally drink from a waterhole before dawn or after dark. They are quite common in our landscape, however it is always a pleasure to come across one while walking through the bush. (Ref. The Great Australian Birdfinder by Michael Morcombe and The Field Guide to the Birds of Australia by Graham Pizzey and Frank Knight)
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HISTORY SPOT
Police Honour Past Member Who Lost His Life near Anglesea By Jan Morris, Anglesea & District Historical Society
On Thursday 16 November 2017, Victoria Police honoured a past member who lost his life 137 years ago, near Anglesea. He was 49-year-old Constable David Digby, who had been sent to investigate the ship Hereford that was stuck on rocks just off Point Addis. George Noble, the only resident in Anglesea at the time, had rowed through rough seas to the wreck. He was able to attach a line that resulted in all 27 people on board being rescued. However, tragedy was to come a week later when two police constables were sent to investigate. When returning to shore, their boat was overturned and Constable Digby and another man named Frank Wright were both drowned. Their bodies were never recovered. Last November, a plaque mounted on stone was erected in memory of Constable David Digby. It was unveiled at an impressive ceremony with police honours. Sergeant Digby, current member of the Colac Police, was a speaker at the unveiling of the plaque to his great, great, grandfather. Later generations of the family have continued to serve in the police force for five generations.
A plaque for Constable David Digby has been erected outside the Police Station. Photo: Susan Clarke
The Hereford being towed off the rocks near Point Addis.
We now have a permanent reminder of this historic event with the plaque outside the Anglesea Police station.
It is interesting to note that the iron clipper, the Hereford was not actually wrecked.
The plaque reads as follows:-
The Victorian Marine Underwriters received a message from the insurers, Lloyds of London, telling them not to sell the ship.
Constable David DIGBY Died 18 January 1881 On the 10 January 1881 the ship Hereford was stranded on rocks at Point Addis. A week later Constable David Digby and Mounted Constable Purcell went to the vessel to interview the manager. During the night the weather became very rough and waves repeatedly broke over the ship. The following morning it was decided to send Constables Digby and Purcell, and eleven others to shore. As they travelled through rough water an unusually large wave swept over the boat. Constable Digby and one other were carried off into the deep rough water. Their bodies were never recovered.
David DIGBY was born in 1830 in Clifden, Ireland. He married Ellen Jane HOBEN and they settled in Geelong. They had ten children, George, David, Elizabeth, Georgina, Henry, Albert, Alfred, Ada, Louisa and Reginald.
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Unfortunately the message arrived too late. It had already been sold. The new owners were able to pull the ship off the rocks and found there was very little damage and it was towed to Melbourne. Keith Cecil, in his book Wrecks and Some Near Misses tells us that the Hereford was bought by the Nourse line and used to transport labourers to India. From stories passed down, we believe Mrs Noble fed the 27 people rescued from the Hereford. She cooked rice in the laundry copper. The bell was presented to George Noble in gratitude for his bravery in reaching the stranded ship. The bell was for many years at the Noble property at Aireys Inlet. It was used to call the family to dinner. That bell is now in the Anglesea History House Museum. It has been professionally preserved to ensure it remains in good order. 31
Celebrating Our Community – Setting up again for 2018 By Terrence Hoffmann
The Anglesea Community House ran an event to celebrate our community at the YMCA Camp in November last year. Special guest was the Anglesea Community Rock Choir, which performed a selection of songs showing off lovely harmonies and tight sound vocally, as well as the band that has formed from choir members. Food was provided by the YMCA chefs, two men originally from Korea, who treated us to some of the best Asian food we have eaten this far south of Footscray. The event was managed by the wonderful YMCA staff, who served us the food. Children had their own play area divided into age-appropriate activities and supervised by trained YMCA staff. Parents could lounge on the turf area overlooking the sound stage where the choir sang, while their children played safely nearby.
Parents had some ‘me’ time with their friends and partners, knowing their children were having fun too—and in experienced hands. Many older residents were freed from their grandchildren and chatted with friends while they were served finger
food and sipped their BYO drinks. The rest of us just got into it, eating, socialising with friends and new acquaintances and listening to the music.
What a fantastic community event it was. It was sponsored and delivered by the Anglesea Community House with the assistance of a Surf Coast Shire grant. Those attending paid a big fat zero, as it was a testing of the water to see how the community responded. After we looked at the feedback, we started thinking about 2018. Planning is now under way to run a bigger event in November 2018, with more entertainment, a larger invitation list and a cost to buy a ticket. It will still be subsidised, so the tickets will be very affordable. The Community House wants people to come and enjoy each other’s company and to celebrate our community together. The food will again be a key attraction. The YMCA kitchens have rightfully
earned a reputation for interesting and delicious food.
Entertainment will again be provided by the Anglesea Rock Choir, but there are plans to invite local musicians to perform as well. Invitations to attend will be offered to members of the Community House, the parents and children using the Occasional Child Care service at the House, as well as members of the various groups that are auspiced by the House, including the Men’s Shed, the Community Gardens at Anglesea and Aireys Inlet and Foodlink. Others may be invited if possible. If you are keen to attend this event, you could join up as a member of the Community House. It costs only $5 a year and you too can join in the fun. Ring 5263 2116 or come to the House and join up.
Guests of the Anglesea Community House enjoyed a fabulous end-of-year celebration at the YMCA, entertained by the Anglesea Rock Choir. 32
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Great Reads from Brought to you by Nicole and the team at Great Escape Books
The Shepherd’s Hut (Australian Fiction) by Tim Winton
The Shepherd’s Hut is a book that roars. It grabs you by the throat and renders you just about breathless until its shattering end. Teenager Jaxie Clackton has always had a tumultuous life. Living on the margins, he doesn’t expect much from any adult, be they parent, teacher or shopkeeper. So when a tragic accident kills his father, he takes off into the desolate Australian bush heading for the one person who understands him. “Hoofing it like a dirty goat,” he is almost at his wits end when he comes across a rugged hermit living on the fringes of a great salt lake. Their mutual distrust and unavoidable liking for each other is like a dance that is both beautiful and heartbreaking. This is a raw, magnificent read and, in our opinion, one of Tim Winton’s best novels yet. Review by Nicole @ Great Escape Books
Rather His Own Man (Aust Non-Fiction) by Geoffrey Robertson, QC
Geoffrey Robertson has always carved his own path. Ridiculously clever and charismatic, he has not only been the champion of the underdog, but has also changed the very fabric of Australian society, influencing the ways we think about human rights. At times very funny and often poignant, Robertson speaks of his gargantuan battles for death row inmates, taking on mighty despots and self-serving governments, as well as providing lighter moments where love and laughter rule. A genuinely engaging read from the mind of a uniquely great Australian. Review by Nicole @ Great Escape Books
The Bookshop of the Broken Hearted (Australian Fiction) by Robert Hillman A very gentle and poignant story of great love. Young sheep farmer Tom Hope thinks he’s ‘pretty rubbish’ at maintaining any relationship, his first marriage over almost before it had begun, but to his astonishment he proves to be a great surrogate dad to young Peter. When he is ripped from his life to go to the ‘Jesus camp’ by his first wife, he is shattered. Into his life comes the charismatic Hannah, a beautiful Jewish holocaust survivor, illuminating his life with love, laughter and books. But will the ghosts of both their pasts stay long enough at bay for them to learn to love again? Surrounding this couple are some of the most delightful depictions of townsfolk, from the psychic postie to the bedhopping butcher. A magical, uplifting read. (Release date: 2 April 2018) Review by Nicole @ Great Escape Books
Roar (Australian Non-Fiction) by Samantha Lane
Read about the trailblazing young women whose sheer force of talent and perseverance has lead the face of AFL rules to be changed for the first time in over one hundred years, since the first game was officially played by the original eight teams in 1896. This is the story of not only women, but also some remarkable men, whose vision imagined a truly inclusive football league for all Australians. An especially important book for all the young girls (and boys) in your life. We can all be very proud! Review by Nicole @ Great Escape Books
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Arthur William (Bill) Harding Exhibition—A Feast of Art in Aireys The work of artist Bill Harding, who drew much of his inspiration from local landscapes, will be on exhibition at Little Feast in Aireys Inlet during March and April, before making its way to a major exhibition at the Victorian Artists’ Society Galleries in East Melbourne. Bill’s connection with the Surf Coast began around the time he was appointed to Geelong Teacher’s College in the 1950s and remained a constant stimulus for his exploration and mastery of colour harmonies throughout his life.
Bill painted ‘plein air’ on small boards (12 x 16”or 20 x 24”) on the cliff tops, the beach, local farms – Clarke’s, Hartley’s (The Glen) and Gladman’s on Pearse Road, Angahook forest, gravel roads, Anglesea gravel pits and Lighthouse cottages.
Family holidays were initially enjoyed west of Aireys Inlet on the Clarke’s Eastern View dairy farm, owned by Mary Ann and George William Clarke .
These favourite locations were revisited regularly at dusk to capture the ‘magic’ light.
A number of College colleagues ‘escaped’ to the quiet and untouched village of Aireys Inlet and encouraged the Hardings to do the same. Following the purchase of a bush block on Eaglerock Parade in 1958, a modest family holiday home was constructed in 1968 and provided a more permanent getaway.
An informal group of local fellow artist friends often gathered for morning painting excursions, the location keenly discussed as each had a preference depending on their painting style. Self-portrait by A.W. (Bill) Harding.
Aireys Inlet and the surrounding landscape provided an ever-changing motif and source for a large body of Bill’s work over the following 50 years.
David Newbury, Max Sherlock, Leon Jackman, David Keys, Chris White, Bernard Kelly and Ray Woods were regulars during the 1970s and 80s. Chris and Bernie continued to paint with Bill in Aireys until his health deteriorated in 2012. Bill’s work is represented in the Geelong Art Gallery’s permanent collection. His last solo exhibition was held at Metropolis Gallery in Geelong in 2011. The exhibition at Little Feast is open until 9 May, and is a precursor to a major exhibition and sale to be held from Thursday, 31 May to Tuesday, 12 June 2018, at the Victorian Artists’ Society Galleries in East Melbourne. The guest opener will be Hon. Jenny Macklin on Friday, 1 June. Please contact Virginia Harding if you would like an invitation to this event: harding.virginia.v@edumail.vic.gov.au
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Above: A selection of paintings from artist Arthur William (Bill) Harding, many inspired by landscapes of Aireys Inlet and surrounds. Bill’s children, Nick, Virginia, and Matthew have organised an exhibition of his art at Little Feast in Aireys during March and April, followed by a major show at the Victorian Artists’ Society Galleries in East Melbourne from 31 May to 12 June 2018, to be opened by Hon. Jenny Macklin on Friday 1 June..
AN ARTIST’S POINT OF VIEW “I have always felt the honesty and purity of Bill’s approach to his painting has never been expanded on enough. “As a fellow painter, I have gradually, with age, sought an honesty of conscience as to subject matter, style etc, which has habitually been influenced by the likelihood of selling, or at least the potential of popularity. “These considerations NEVER interested Bill; I witnessed him fighting the same motif in varying light conditions over and over until he was reasonably satisfied with the result, always preferring the most difficult light transitions and his beloved Contre-jour.” Chris White, Artist 2 February 2018 NewsAngle | Publication of the Anglesea Community House | Community Houses are for Everyone
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Write Angles
Village Life After I'd signed the form for the pharmacist, I said, “I've remembered my name and the date.” He said, “Now all you have to do is find your way home.”
By Melva Stott
Australia Day It's the day when Aussie songs waft along the riverbank. This year I cried by myself, which wasn't as strange for me as it was for you, because overseas and at competitions all town criers perform separately. I received a lovely welcome when I arrived and was announced by The Billy Tea Band. I said I'd come to give my address to the nation. The Surf Coast CEO paid tribute to Stan's 25 years of service as crier for the Shire. The Australia Day Ambassador was David Jacka who has achieved a host of amazing milestones. If you've been hearing any strange noises on Sunday mornings, it was probably me - I'd been exercising my voice for months by singing along with ‘Songs Of Praise’ on the telly.
Getting Along with Macropods Those who study kangaroos have discovered that they have a habit of coughing to show submission. So if a roo comes near you and seems aggressive, try coughing loudly whilst slowly moving away.
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Everything in the Garden … Is not so good! Something I've learned since Stan has gone is that it doesn't take long to fill up the big green bin! This year, I received a birthday present I've never had before - my daughter gave me some gardening gloves that are light and flexible and also pretty with a floral pattern.
As Time Goes By I recently saw a photo in the Geelong A dvertiser of a boy I taught in Prep - he now has a lovely white beard!
Don't Kick the Bucket There came a stage last year when there wasn't much left on my ‘Bucket List’ … so the main aim I had was not to kick it! But then I added a few more items so that I now have things to plan for, and look forward to in the future, because that's what a Bucket List is all about - things, events, trips, celebrations to keep living for. Keep smiling! Melva Stott
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