Find Geelong 2025 - June Edition

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Geelong National Folk Celtic Festival

By Joe Lam

The National Celtic Folk Festival; Origins and Its Rise to Prominence The National Celtic Folk Festival, now a major cultural highlight on Australia’s event calendar, has its roots in the creative communities of Maroondah and Geelong. Known today for transforming the quiet coastal town of Portarlington into a bustling hub of Celtic celebration every June, the festival began as a humble idea nurtured by a small group of passionate individuals — most notably festival founder and long-time director, Una McAlinden.

In the late 1990s, Maroondah’s vibrant community of musicians, storytellers, and arts advocates began exploring ways to celebrate and preserve their Celtic heritage. Small gatherings at local venues like Ringwood’s Karralyka Centre featured live Irish folk music, Scottish storytelling, and traditional dance. One of the driving forces behind these gatherings was McAlinden, a proud Irish-Australian with a background in arts education. She saw the potential for something much bigger — a festival that could celebrate the diverse traditions of the Celtic nations and bring together people from all walks of life.

COLUMNIST CONTRIBUTORS COLUMNIST

About the Find Geelong

By Warren Strybosch

The Find Geelong is a community paper that aims to support all things Geelong. We want to provide a place where all NotFor-Profits (NFP), schools, sporting groups and other like organisations can share their news in one place. For instance, submitting up-and-coming events in the Find Geelong for Free.

We do not proclaim to be another newspaper and we will not be aiming to compete with other news outlets. You can obtain your news from other sources. We feel you get enough of this already. We will keep our news topics to a minimum and only provide what we feel is most relevant topics to you each month.

We invite local council and the current council members to participate by submitting information each month so as to keep us informed of any changes that may be of relevance to us, their local constituents.

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Warren Strybosch | 1300 88 38 30 editor@findgeelong.com.au

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OUR NEWSPAPER

We will also try and showcase different organisations throughout the year so you, the reader, can learn more about what is on offer in your local area.

To help support the paper, we invite local businesses owners to sponsor the paper and in return we will provide exclusive advertising and opportunities to submit articles about their businesses. As a community we encourage you to support these businesses/columnists. Without their support, we would not be able to provide this community paper to you.

Lastly, we want to ask you, the local community, to support the fundraising initiatives that we will be developing and rolling out over the coming years. Our aim is to help as many NFP and other like organisations to raise much needed funds to help them to keep operating. Our fundraising initiatives will never simply ask for money from you. We will also aim to provide something of worth to

The

you before you part with your hardearned money. The first initiative is the Find Cards and Find Coupons – similar to the Entertainment Book but cheaper and more localised. Any NFP and similar organisations e.g., schools, sporting clubs, can participate.

Follow us on facebook (https://www. facebook.com/findgeelong) so you keep up to date with what we are doing.

We value your support,

The Find Geelong Team.

Geelong

ALL THINGS GEELONG

The City of Geelong is one of Victoria’s largest regional capital cities. Geelong had a population of approximately 230,000 as at the 2019 Report which includes 16,000 businesses. Geelong’s location is in strong growth corridor, making it an ideal location for businesses to explore options outside of the capital city.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The Find Geelong acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the lands where Geelong now stands, the Wadawuarrung people of the Kulin nation, and pays repect to their Elders - past, present and emerging - and acknowledges the important role Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people continue to play within our community.

The Find Geelong was established in 2019 and is owned by the Find Foundation, a Not-For-Profit organisation with is core focus of helping other Not-For-Profits, schools, clubs and other similar organisations in the local community - to bring everyone together in one place and to support each other. We provide the above organisations FREE advertising in the community paper to promote themselves as well as to make the community more aware of the services these organisations can offer. The Find Geelong has a strong editorial focus and is supported via local grants and financed predominantly by local business owners.

DISCLAIMER

Readers are advised that the Find Geelong accepts no responsibility for financial, health or other claims published in advertising or in articles written in this newspaper. All comments are of a general nature and do not take into account your personal financial situation, health and/or wellbeing. We recommend you seek professional advice before

by Joe Lam

The National Celtic Folk Festival, now a major cultural highlight on Australia’s event calendar, has its roots in the creative communities of Maroondah and Geelong. Known today for transforming the quiet coastal town of Portarlington into a bustling hub of Celtic celebration every June, the festival began as a humble idea nurtured by a small group of passionate individuals — most notably festival founder and long-time director, Una McAlinden. In the late 1990s, Maroondah’s vibrant community of musicians, storytellers, and arts advocates began exploring ways to celebrate and preserve their Celtic heritage. Small gatherings at local venues like Ringwood’s Karralyka Centre featured live Irish folk music, Scottish storytelling, and traditional dance. One of the driving forces behind these gatherings was McAlinden, a proud Irish-Australian with a background in arts education. She saw the potential for something much bigger — a festival that could celebrate the diverse traditions of the Celtic nations and bring together people from all walks of life. At the same time, the city of Geelong — rich with its own Irish and Scottish immigrant history — was seeing a resurgence in interest in folk traditions. Music venues in Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula hosted regular sessions of Celtic music, while local councils supported community-based arts events. The shared cultural heritage of these two regions laid the groundwork for a larger collaboration. In 2002, McAlinden officially founded the National Celtic Folk Festival. With support from local councils in both Maroondah and Greater Geelong, and contributions from early festival advocates like musician Jimmy O’Hare and artist Joan Macdonald, the festival was launched in Portarlington. The coastal town was chosen for its natural beauty, connection to regional Victoria, and its welcoming community. That first festival featured a modest lineup of local artists, workshops, and cultural displays — and it was a hit. The festival’s reputation grew rapidly. Within a few years, it was attracting major international acts such as Altan from Ireland, The Paul McKenna Band from Scotland, and local legends like Claymore and Fiona Ross. Strategic support from Creative Victoria and the City of Greater Geelong helped fund expanded programming, including youth initiatives, cultural exchanges, and masterclasses in music and dance. Today, the National Celtic Folk Festival is more than just a celebration — it’s a living, breathing tribute to community spirit, artistic passion, and cultural pride. From its beginnings in Maroondah’s community halls and Geelong’s music scene, the festival now draws thousands each year, remaining grounded in the values of inclusion, tradition, and creativity that inspired its founders.

Geelong Column

By City of Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj

Portarlington will become an action-packed hive of Gaelic culture when the National Celtic Folk Festival returns over the King’s Birthday long weekend.

This year’s festival, the 21st edition, welcomes four acclaimed Irish acts making their Australian debut –CAOIMHÍN, Gráinne Hunt, Tulua and Boxing Banjo.

The St Ayles skiffs are also set to make their festival debut, with these beautifully crafted Scottish boats sailing into Portarlington in a showcase of competitive spirit and Celtic boat-building artistry.

For the first time the festival features a full-scale hurling match, with Geelong taking on Melbourne in this fast-paced, high-intensity sport.

And in another exciting festival-first, renowned Irish chef Declan McGovern will share his signature take on traditional Irish cooking in the festival kitchen, using fresh local ingredients.

Held over four vibrant days, this festival celebrates the music, stories and enduring traditions of the Celtic nations—Irish, Scottish, Welsh, Manx, Cornish and Breton – and our region’s deep Celtic roots.

And there is something for everyone with all the favourite events and attractions returning this year.

Witness the awesome raw strength of the Heavy Games, the energy and grace of Celtic dance, the pageantry of the pipes and drums and the intrigue of Celtic theatre, poetry and traditions.

You can even get up close and personal with Scotland’s rugged, shaggy highland cows and learn the fiddle, flute, accordion and more from some of the best Celtic artists in the world.

The City of Greater Geelong is proud to support this magical festival featuring over 60 national and international acts, and a bustling market with more than 80 stalls, food trucks, crafts and interactive demonstrations.

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, I encourage you to explore the festival and immerse yourself in the global phenomenon of Celtic culture.

Who to Trust and Deal with?

FINANCIAL

PLANNER

By Warren Strybosch

I thought it would be worth reminding everyone that it is important when seeking financial planning advice, to do some due diligence in relation to the person and/or company you are about to deal with before entrusting your money to them. Firstly, I want to tell you my story and why I got into financial planning.

It all began over 25 years ago. I was a secondary teacher and I wanted to go back and do some further studies. Prior to becoming a teacher and before joining the army, I was halfway through my accounting qualifications. I thought that would be a good place to start –to go and complete my accounting degree. However, someone mentioned that I should look at financial planning. It was an emerging profession that would bring together insurance agents, investment advisors, and the like. It sounded interesting so I decided to do an introductory subject in this area with the Securities Institute of Victoria and Deakin.

It did not take long before word got around that I was studying financial planning. I was approached by an older friend of mine who had trouble reading and understanding financial matters. He presented me with a piece of paper and asked me to explain what the share certificate meant. I had to point out to my friend that what I was holding was not a share certificate but in fact a letter confirming he had gifted over $150,000 to someone we both knew who called himself a financial planner.

There is a lot to this story, but the end result was that whilst my friend got his money back, many other people who also got caught up in the scheme (we are talking about thousands of people in my community and around Australia),

lost their money, their homes, ended up in divorce and some becoming so physically sick they could not get out of bed.

How did this happen?

Well, the person selling the scheme worked in a trusted position and told everyone he was a financial planner. Unfortunately, no one at the time did any due diligence to determine if he was really a financial planner. It was only later discovered that this person, whilst he was listed on the ASIC register as a financial planner, was licenced by a company that was in the process of being deregistered.

Also, the person was selling a scheme that was literally too good to be true. People were being told that their money would double or triple in only a couple of years’ time when the company they invested in listed on the stock exchange.

Unfortunately, many people believed his story…he was a good salesperson. He was raided by ASIC and the whole scheme fell apart.

It was because of this event that I decided to become a fully licensed financial planner. I made it my mission to try and protect as many people as possible; to educate them and help them with their financial needs. I have been working as a financial planner for over 20 years now and I see part of my role, for which I am unapologetic for, is to try and remove people from our profession that are, in my opinion, doing that wrong thing.

Even now, I find myself currently dealing with mortgage brokers and ex-financial planners who think it is ok to either provide advice when they are not qualified and/ or licenced to do so or they are setting up schemes to either defraud the ATO or someone else. It never ends.

So, who can you trust and talk to when it comes to your money and needing advice?

In Australia, financial planning is governed by strict regulations designed to protect consumers. However, just like anywhere, there are still important steps to take to ensure you’re working with someone you can trust. Here’s how you can go about finding a trustworthy financial planner and making sure their advice is in your best interests.

1. Understand the Regulatory Framework in Australia

• Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC): ASIC regulates financial planners in Australia and ensures that they adhere to the legal requirements of the industry. You can check the ASIC Financial Adviser Register to verify whether a financial advisor is licensed and check for any disciplinary action against them.

• Australian Financial Services (AFS) License: Anyone providing financial advice must hold an AFS license or be an authorized representative of an AFS license holder. This ensures they meet the standards for providing financial advice in Australia.

2. Check for Relevant Qualifications and Credentials

• Qualifications: Nearly all the current financial planners have updated their qualifications in the past few years. For most, they will have a bachelor or post grad in financial planner.

• Financial Advice Association of Australia (FAAA) or Institute of Financail Professionals (IFPA): Look for advisors who are members of the FAAA or IFPA, as they adhere to the association’s code of ethics and ongoing professional development requirements. Note: It is not a requirement anymore to belong to an association anymore so whilst this was a requirement to practice financial planning in the past it is no longer a requirement.

• Registered Tax (Financial) Adviser or Accountant: If you’re dealing with tax and investment strategies, you might want to look for an adviser with this registration, ensuring they’re qualified to give advice on tax issues. As an example, I am both a financial planner and an accountant. There are not many people in Australia who are both.

3. Fiduciary Duty and Best Interest Duty

• Best Interest Duty: Since 2013, Australian financial advisers have been legally required to act in their clients’ best interests under the Corporations Act. This means they must prioritize your needs over their own financial interests. The “best interest duty” requires financial advisers to act with care, skill, and diligence.

• Fiduciary Duty: Some advisers might have a fiduciary duty (i.e., they must act in your best interest) while others may not. Financial planners who are fiduciaries are required to disclose any conflicts of interest and provide clear, unbiased advice. While the legal duty to act in your best interest is broad, it’s still important to ask upfront whether they have a fiduciary obligation and how they’re compensated.

4. Look for Fee Transparency

• Fee-for-service (fee-only): Advisors who charge a fixed fee or an hourly rate are typically considered to be more transparent and less likely to have conflicts of interest. This means they don’t earn commissions from the financial products they recommend.

• Commission-based: Some advisers earn commissions from recommending specific products, such as insurance or investment products. It is important to understand why they receive commissions and how this might have an impact on the advice provided. For instance, we only receive commissions for personal insurance advice because people are reluctant to pay large fees to get advice in this area especially if they are unsure if they will obtain the insurance cover to begin with.

Since

has helped reduce conflicts of interest.Still,always ask for a Statement of Advice (SOA), which outlines their recommendations and the cost of those services.

5. Do Your Research

• ASIC Financial Adviser Register: You can verify if an adviser is properly licensed by checking the ASIC Financial Adviser Register. It provides details of advisers’ qualifications, history, and whether they’ve faced any disciplinary action.

• FAAA’s Adviser Search: The Financial Advice Association of Australia has an online Adviser Search tool, where you can find members who meet professional standards, including compliance with the FAAA’s Code of Ethics.

• Google Reviews, Testimonials, and Word of Mouth: It can be helpful to search for reviews online or ask friends, family, or colleagues if they’ve worked with a particular adviser. Personal referrals can help you feel more confident in your choice.

• Awards. Some advisors have won awards. Whilst this is not a true indication of trustworthiness, it is good to know that they are contributing to their profession or are known by their peers.

6. Ask the Right Questions

Here are some key questions to ask when choosing a financial planner:

• Do you have a best interest duty?

• How are you compensated (fees, commissions, or both)?

• How much do you charge and are you on the higher or lower end when it comes to fees compared to other advisors?

• Can you explain the reasons behind your advice?

• What are your qualifications and experience?

• How often will we meet to review my financial plan?

• Can you provide a detailed Statement of Advice (SOA)?

7. Evaluate Their Communication and Transparency

• Clear Communication: A trustworthy financial planner should explain things in a way that is clear and understandable. If you don’t understand their recommendations or they use jargon, that’s a red flag.

• Transparency: Make sure the adviser is open about any potential conflicts of interest, fees, and commissions. They should be willing to provide a detailed breakdown of their costs and explain the reasons behind their recommendations.

8. Get a Second Opinion

If you’re ever unsure about an adviser’s recommendations, don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion from another licensed professional. This helps ensure that you’re not missing out on better options or falling victim to bad advice.

9. Look for Long-Term Relationship Compatibility

Financial planning is not a one-off task; it’s an ongoing relationship. Make sure that you feel comfortable with the adviser and that they take the time to understand your unique financial goals. Choose someone who listens and gives you advice tailored to your situation, rather than offering generic solutions.

Red Flags to Watch Out For:

• High-pressure tactics: If an adviser is pushing you into a decision or pressuring you to sign something immediately, that’s a red flag.

• Unexplained fees or commissions: If they’re not transparent about how they earn money or can’t clearly explain the fees involved, walk away.

• Unclear advice or evasiveness: If the adviser is evasive when explaining how their advice benefits you or how their fees are structured, that’s a sign to be cautious.

Final Thoughts

Finding a trustworthy financial planner in Australia requires some effort, but it’s worth it for your financial peace of mind. By making sure they have the right qualifications,adhere to ethical standards, and are transparent about their fees, you can build a relationship based on trust. Don’t rush the process—take the time to find an adviser who aligns with your values, understands your goals, and has the skills to help you achieve them.

Warren Strybosch

1300 88 38 30 |warren@findwealth.com.au www.findwealth.com.au

Warren Strybosch Award winning Financial Adviser and Accountant

Financial Planning is offered via Find Wealth Pty Ltd ACN 140 585 075 t/a Find Wealth & Find Retirement.

FindWealthisaCorporateAuthorisedRepresentative (No 468091) of Alliance Wealth Pty Ltd ABN 93 161 647 007 (AFSL No. 449221).Part of the Centrepoint Alliancegroup https://www.centrepointalliance. com.au/

Warren Strybosch is Authorised representative (No. 468091) of Alliance Wealth Pty Ltd. Services offered are superannuation, retirement planning and aged care advice.

This information has been provided as general advice. We have not considered your financial circumstances, needs or objectives. You should consider the appropriateness of the advice. You should obtain and consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) and seek the assistance of an authorised financial adviser before making any decision regarding any products or strategies mentioned in this communication.

Whilst all care has been taken in the preparation of this material, it is based on our understanding of current regulatory requirements and laws at the publication date.As these laws are subject to change you should talk to an authorised adviser for the most up-to-date information. No warranty is given in respect of the information provided and accordingly neither Alliance Wealth nor its related entities, employees or representatives accepts responsibility for any loss suffered by any person arising from reliance on this information.

Important Tip:

2019,Australian financial advisers are required to disclose all fees upfront,which

BOOSTING YOUR REMOTE TEAM’S COMMUNICATION PERFORMANCE

LEADERSHIP & CULTURE SPECIALIST

By Sally Higoe

You’d be excused if you were still scrambling around working out how to effectively manage your virtual and remote teams to get the most powerful result.

Many leaders and managers were not skilled to manage this or prepared for the change in environment and for a lot, over the last few years as the transition still takes place, it’s been trial and error.

The great news is that if your remote team is set-up and managed in the right way, research shows that they can actually out-perform an in-house team. The key point here is that its unreasonable (and irresponsible!) to assume that you can just disperse your group of talented people and hope for the best!

Pre-COVID, remote teams were quite foreign and even considered strange but as internet connections have strengthened and software for video conferencing has improved in use and functionality, this style of working is now quite typical.

As this norm increases (even BEFORE COVID roughly 32% of workers in Australia were regularly working from home – as stated on the abs.gov.au site) more and more Companies are seeing the benefits and forming remote working teams. As this ability to work from all different locations, collaborating on projects and initiatives provides flexibility, it also requires leaders to support their people in a much different capacity to what was, the norm.

Whether your team is 100% virtual, partially virtual or overlapping in hours or days of work, it’s likely your working environment and relationships have been affected. Communicating what was once simple, now requires more effort and thought.

Luckily, understanding Extended DISC can help you to understand your teams needs and wants.

If you are familiar with Extended DISC profiles for your in-house teams, then you know how helpful it is to be able to support and encourage your people in the way they need. But what about for remote teams? Are these profiles as important seeing as the majority of tasks are performed alone?

Yes. They are critical – that is, if your goal is to create a team of self-leaders, set them up for success and to set you all up to reap the rewards.

A DISC profile clearly shows you the natural, preferred style of your individual team member (or, if you have a team profile, you will also understand the team preference overall, how each member works with and bounces off each other and where the gaps are that must be filled).

When you understand your teams DISC profiles you’re able to tailor EVERYTHING to meet their needs – from projects and tasks to workstations, working partners and required support. The profiles give an insight in to your people’s skill sets and their natural behaviours – identifiers such as their strengths, stretches, how they perceive others, are perceived, what makes them tick, how they like to be motivated, inspired and challenged (if at all!).

The knowledge gained from a DISC profile can be the differentiating support tool that takes your team from ‘here’ to next level. Significant factors like knowing which of your team members can handle the isolation aspects and how much support and contact they need and expect from you to complete their role, will enable you to know where to focus (and how much!). Knowing what to offer your team is essential if you want a successful remote program.

Tips to effectively identify and support the DISC Profiles:

• D Styles are your assertive high achievers, visionary and natural leaders. They are likely to stay on task and get things done. D Style workers want to be heard and thrive on competition. Ensure your D Style people have the space to share their achievements and opinions.

• I Styles are your charismatic relationship focused workers. They typically have high Emotional Intelligence but may get easily distracted, even scatter brained under pressure. They do like to be around people and are the most likely to struggle with working remotely. Ensure you keep in touch with your I style people with messaging apps such as Slack (just don’t be surprised by the amount of chatter coming through these channels) and help to keep them focused and on-track.

• Remote work is most suited to your S Style workers, especially if they are working at home with friends or family. Typically, they are your reliable workers who stay on task and follow instructions. They want to be comfortable but do not like instability. Ensure you offer them enough support to cope with the change in working environments.

• Your C Style workers are your analytical, precise, logical team members. Ensure you provide them with very detailed emails, so they know the tasks they need to accomplish and how to perform them. Check-in regularly with your C Style people so they can ask questions and discuss their concerns.

If you’re interested in discovering more about your teams individual or group preferences, please get in touch.

sally@sallyh.au

customers. Today, we start with a key technology, a top tier phone system helps your business communicate with customers.

VoIP

VoIP stands for Voice of Internet Protocol; in simple terms it means a phone system that uses an internet connection rather than a dedicated phone line. Most phone lines, especially if you have moved to the NBN, use VoIP technology. With VoIP it is easy to have a phone system with increased functionality over traditional business phone systems, while reducing costs and simplifying administrative overhead.

Microsoft Teams Business Phone Systems

By Justin Middleton

A good phone system can enable a business by meeting the evergrowing demands of its customers and employees. Since the pandemic in 2020, it has been increasingly clear that having a flexible workforce that can pick up and work from any location can be the difference between your business surviving and thriving.

Over the coming months, I will write about components enabling your business flexibility and being able to meet and surpass your employees’ technology needs while delivering more to your

What Features do a VoIP Business Phone System offer?

Business Phone Systems have evolved beyond a menu function that connects to specific targets or takes messages. A good VoIP phone system, available anywhere there is internet connection, provides an extensive range of features:

1. Schedule phone hours and multiple call-flow scenarios (business hours, after hours).

2. Host online meetings and webinars.

3. Message internally with colleagues or stakeholders.

4. Share files, track tasks, and collaborate.

5. Diversion of calls during long wait times.

6. Calling multiple phone lines at once.

7. Calendar integration to know when not to call employees.

8. Recognition of business hours to automatically divert calls, improving employee wellbeing.

9. Emailing voicemail messages.

10. Using computers, mobile phones, and physical handsets to handle calls.

11. Improve call quality with background noise suppression.

12. Using AI to take notes, key points, create tasks, next steps, and more.

The list goes on for what a good business phone system can do to enable your business.

Microsoft Teams

There are many different VoIP business phone systems are out there, but one of the most popular, and for good reason, is Microsoft Teams.

Microsoft Teams is a product line that is built to augment the Microsoft Office suite, you’ll probably be familiar with mainstays like Word, Excel, and Outlook. Microsoft Teams is a top tier business phone system with close integration with the Microsoft ecosystem.

Teams is a cost-effective way to enable your business, especially if you’re already using the Microsoft Office suite, with monthly operational costs generally being lower than traditional business phone systems.

If you’re interested in Microsoft Teams or any other business phone system, reach out to Erebus IT on (03) 4210-0680 for your free initial consultation or your local IT provider.

SOLUTIONS FOR SMALL BUSINESS

Clarity Over Clicks: Why Non-Profits Must Stop Chasing Reach and Start Refining Their Message

DIGITAL MEDIA

By Ethan Strybosch

In the fast-paced digital world, it’s easy to believe that marketing is all about visibility. The more eyes on your cause, the better. More traffic means more awareness, which leads to more donations, more volunteers, and ultimately, more impact.

Right?

Not quite.

At first glance, this logic seems sound. Many not-for-profits throw themselves headfirst into the world of social media, email campaigns, Google Ads, and influencer shoutouts, trying to be everywhere at once. They post regularly, pay for visibility, and tick every box on the “best practices” list.

But despite their efforts, many still feel like they’re spinning their wheels. Campaigns underperform. Donations plateau. Engagement stays lukewarm.

Why?

Because visibility without clarity is just noise.

At Good Cause, we’ve had the privilege of working with passionate organisations that care deeply about their mission. These are groups doing important work in communities across Australia. But we kept seeing the same issue arise: they were being seen, but not heard.

Their messaging was unclear. And in marketing, clarity is everything.

You can’t move someone to act if they don’t know exactly what you want them to do, why it matters, and how it

connects to a story they care about. When organisations fail to answer those questions, their marketing falls flat, no matter how many people it reaches.

The truth is, a clear message is more powerful than a big audience.

We’ve seen it firsthand. When we sat down with these non-profits and helped them refine their message, who they were speaking to, what they wanted people to do, and how that action linked to realworld impact, something shifted.

Suddenly, their campaigns started converting. Donors leaned in, not just because they saw another appeal, but because they understood why it mattered and how they could be part of the change. Volunteers showed up because they resonated with the story being told. The mission didn’t just exist, it came to life.

Take, for example, one organisation we worked with that had been investing heavily in Google Ads and Facebook campaigns. They were driving plenty of traffic to their site, but very few people were signing up or donating. Once we reworked their homepage messaging and clarified their call-to-action, replacing vague statements with specific impact-driven language, the same ads began performing 3–4x better. Nothing changed in the budget. Everything changed in the clarity.

It’s not rocket science. But it is a shift in mindset.

In an age where everyone is competing for attention, clarity wins. It’s what cuts through the noise. It’s what inspires action. And most importantly for not-forprofits, it’s what fuels real impact.

So if you’re a charity leader or marketer feeling disheartened because your reach isn’t translating into results, pause before you pour more into ads or post another reel.

So if you’re a charity leader or marketer feeling disheartened because your reach isn’t translating into results, pause before you pour more into ads or post another reel.

Ask yourself:

What exactly do I want people to do?

Why should they care?

How does this connect to the transformation or hope we’re offering?

Once you’re crystal clear on those answers, then turn up the volume.

Because when your message is clear, marketing becomes more than just reach, it becomes momentum.

And momentum is what changes the world.

THE R WORDS: Relationships, Rapport, Retention

ACCOUNTANT

By Anjana Jogi

Your business grows by attracting new clients. However, retaining existing customers may cost less and yield greater returns. The [Harvard Business Review] (https://hbr.org/2014/10/thevalue-of-keeping-the-right-customers ) found that acquiring a new customer may cost five to 25 times more than keeping an existing customer, and that increased customer retention can enhance profitability.

Develop a robust retention strategy with strong client relationships:

- Identify common ground

- Ask questions, listen and build rapport

- Make clients feel welcome

- Establish trust, under-promise and over-deliver

Train your team so that customer care is consistently excellent.

It’s easier to build trust when you’re face to face. Online touchpoints need to be consistent too. Consider ease of use, responsiveness and follow up. Is the path from automated contact to personalised contact and service delivery seamless from the customer’s point of view? Dig into users’ experience to see how they perceive interactions with your business.

Back up service delivery with:

- Social media presence, putting a face to your business

- Email personalisation

- Rapid response. Show clients you respect their time because it – like yours – is valuable

- Data analysis. Different demographics may have different preferences for how they connect with your business. Some are comfortable with chatbot interactions while others may be turned off, valuing personal contact they perceive as authentic.

All this helps your business stand out, so people remember you and tell their friends and colleagues. Great client relationships help your business attract new clients as well as repeat business.

The three Rs are key to long-term success.

Every Dollar Counts: Why Expense Reconciliation Matters More Than You Think

BOOKKEEPING

By Jodie Moore

Accurate expense reconciliation is a critical component of sound financial management in any business. It involves comparing internal financial records with external documents—such as bank statements, receipts, or supplier invoices—to ensure that every recorded transaction is accurate and accounted for. While it may seem like an insignificant back-office task, proper reconciliation has far-reaching implications for the health and sustainability of a business.

At its core, expense reconciliation helps maintain financial accuracy. Discrepancies between internal records and actual expenditures can lead to errors in financial statements, tax filings, and budget forecasts. Over time, these inaccuracies can accumulate, distorting a company’s understanding of its financial position. By reconciling expenses regularly, businesses can catch and correct mistakes early, ensuring their books reflect true financial activity.

Moreover, reconciliation plays a key role in detecting and preventing fraud. Inconsistent or unauthorised expenses can signal misuse of company funds, either through employee misconduct or external threats such as cyber fraud.

Timely reconciliation enables businesses to flag unusual transactions and investigate them before the damage escalates. For example, identifying duplicate payments or inflated vendor charges can help recover funds and tighten internal controls to prevent future issues.

Proper expense reconciliation also supports regulatory compliance. Companies are required by law to maintain accurate records for tax reporting and audits. If a business fails to reconcile its expenses properly, it may face legal penalties, interest charges, or damage to its reputation. Especially in regulated industries like finance or healthcare, the stakes are even higher, making meticulous reconciliation not just a best practice but a legal necessity.

In addition to compliance and fraud prevention, reconciliation provides a clearer picture of cash flow. Knowing exactly how much has been spent, when, and on what helps business leaders make informed decisions. It enables better budget management, improves forecasting accuracy, and ensures that working capital is allocated effectively. This level of insight is especially crucial for small and medium-sized businesses operating with tighter margins and fewer resources.

Automating the reconciliation process can further enhance its effectiveness. With the help of accounting software such as Xero and digital expense management tools, businesses can streamline the process, reduce human error, and free up staff time for more strategic tasks.

Automation also provides audit trails and real-time tracking, making it easier to monitor financial activity continuously rather than relying on periodic reviews. Ultimately, reconciling expenses correctly isn’t just a matter of good accounting—it’s a strategic safeguard that underpins operational integrity, financial transparency, and business resilience. Companies that prioritise regular, thorough reconciliation are better equipped to grow sustainably, manage risks proactively, and build trust with stakeholders.

In a rapidly evolving economic landscape, the ability to track and verify every dollar spent is not optional—it’s essential. Businesses that neglect this responsibility do so at their own peril, while those that invest in strong reconciliation practices position themselves for longterm success.

INTERIOR PAINTING IN WINTER

PAINTING & DECORATING

By Steve Dahllof

While enjoying the summer weather, we often don’t want to think of home improvement activities for the colder months. However, if you are considering refreshing a few rooms with a new coat of paint, winter is a good time to do that.

Cheaper

The cooler months are usually the offseason for most professional painters, due to the perception that summer is the time for a house make-over. If you are planning a large interior paint job, you could find that quotes are cheaper. As they may not be so busy with other projects, they mey even offer to paint an extra room for free!

Quicker

The wettest month in the Port Phillip region is in spring (October); conversely, winters can be fairly dry. This translates into ideal humidity conditions for painting the interior of your home. Lower humidity means less moisture in the air and as we don’t have snow, the temperature rarely gets too low, so paint dries faster. It’s true there are fewer hours of daylight, but

summer painting is constrained by too many hot hours, so the hours available in the day for painting are probably the same for summer and winter.

From June to August, walls and ceilings are heat conductors. Factor in your heating systems and in some cases, you may discover that your total painting project could be finished more quickly than in summer. However, it is important to check carefully the actual temperature of the interior surfaces you wish to paint. If it turns out that they are in fact colder than the outside air temperature, you can consider using a heat gun or even a hairdryer to warm them up. Do remember to open windows and doors to ventilate the rooms you are painting. Even better, buy wall paints with low to zero VOC (volatile organic compounds) to avoid potentially inhaling toxic fumes.

One other thing to be aware of: if you live near a creek or water course, or if there has been a recent downfall of heavy rain, mould and rising damp may develop. You must spend the extra time to deal with this first before painting. A professional painter can give you a quote on what needs doing and how long it will take.

Better results

If you decide to paint your rooms over winter, here are some tips to get the best results.

Especially when using water-based paints, paint dries quickly in hot or humid weather, meaning more brush marks and overlapping joins. The water content evaporates which is a good thing. Slow drying means you use fewer brush marks and fewer joins which eliminates the need for acrylic paint conditioners and makes for a smoother finish. One great advantage is that washing your brushes out at the end of the day is a breeze as the paint hasn’t baked into them.

Beware, however, if you have not painted interiors much before that paint can become thicker under cold conditions. It is more difficult to paint with thick paint; it might not spread evenly which will leave blotches – not the sheen or texture you were hoping for! If this happens, pop along to your local hardware store and buy an acrylic paint conditioner like Floetrol which will smooth the paint that out for you and make it easier to apply.

Whether this is your first go at painting the inside of your home or you’ve done it for years, always store your paint in a warm dry place, and in colder seasons, indoors.

Most of us spend the winter months more indoors than out so winter is ideal to use that time to beautify your home. Painting your home in winter also means that you and your family can enjoy the following spring and summer without the burden of a large chore to do hanging over you. Start planning now for your new look home!

For more painting advice on painting in winter, contact Dahllof Painting Services at sjd67@bigpond.net.au. We will be happy to answer all your inquiries.

kerna1967@gmail.com

Steve Dahllof

to calm the mind BREATHING

NATUROPATHY

By Kathryn Messenger

When you’re feeling stressed or anxious and especially if you’re feeling stuck in that state, it can be really helpful to have some tools that you can use, to move out of it, into your calm, rational mind.

Your autonomic nervous system has 2 modes: sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight), and parasympathetic nervous system (rest and digest). Don’t worry too much about the names of these 2 modes, they were given hundreds of years ago and the original theories around what they did, turned out to be untrue.

To balance your autonomic nervous system in the long term, you want to make sure your life includes activities that you find fun or relaxing: exercise, time in nature, and time with friends (especially if that includes a good laugh).

In the short term, breathing exercises can be an amazing way to calm your mind. Every health guru will have their special breathing technique, but the basic formula is the same: breathe out for longer than

you breathe in. They must be done through the nose and without taking in more air than you normally would, sometimes they include holding your breath.

For me, I’m someone who has had asthma, and still do from time to time, so I find breath holds more difficult. But what I do find is that breathing exercises not only calm my mind but improve my asthma. If you want breathing exercises specifically for asthma, look into the ‘Buteyko breathing technique’.

Ideally, these exercises would be done for around 15 minutes twice a day, in a place with no distractions or conversation. You need to be straight, so that your diaphragm and whole lungs are used: sitting, standing or lying down. I often use them when I’m lying in bed and can’t relax to fall asleep, I rarely get to the 15 minutes before I’ve drifted off.

The way I like to do it is to breathe in for 4 counts, then out for 5 counts, the length of the counts should be just a little slower than your normal breath in. It shouldn’t feel difficult, but an easy flow to get into. I sometimes find it a little difficult to get into the rhythm at first, especially if I haven’t done it for a while, or if I’m particularly stressed.

Some signs that you’re doing this correctly are: increased saliva in your mouth (after all, it is called rest and digest), and increased blood flow - if you’re someone with cold feet, you will find that the increased blood flow should warm your extremities.

For me once I’ve been breathing like this for 5 minutes, my mind starts to feel amazing. I would describe it as a calm with joy.

If you need any further support to calm your mind, I have many natural products that can make a massive difference with this.

City of Greater Geelong and Devonport City Council join forces to create new economic opportunities

Devonport City Council CEO Matthew Atkins, Mayor Kontelj, Deputy Mayor Ron Nelson, Mayor Jarman, City of Greater Geelong CEO Ali Wastie and Councillor Trent Sullivan

The City of Greater Geelong and Devonport City Council will collaborate on opportunities for economic growth and tourism under a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

With so many passengers travelling between the cities on the Spirit of Tasmania, the new MoU will establish a framework for cooperation and collaboration, including the exploration of opportunities for economic development, capitalising on the key link between the two cities.Its objective is to see a range of stakeholders, including both councils, Tourism Greater Geelong and the Bellarine, and the Spirit of Tasmania determining how to work together to showcase the best that the two cities have to offer visitors.

Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM:

“The first arrival of the Spirit of Tasmania back in 2022 was a remarkable moment for Geelong, and now, we want to make sure we are delivering as many benefits for our region as possible.

Our two cities have so much in common, and I know we can leverage that to bring more tourism jobs and opportunities for both Geelong and Devonport.”

Devonport City Council Mayor Alison Jarman:

“The Spirit of Tasmania service provides for more than just a mode of transport — it serves as a vital connection between two vibrant, growing regional hubs. Our collaboration with Geelong reinforces that connection and paves the way for exciting new opportunities.

With hundreds of thousands of passengers travelling between our two cities each year, this agreement gives us a chance to work together on tourism, business, and cultural exchange that will help grow our regional economies.

This Memorandum of Understanding marks the beginning of an exciting relationship between Devonport and Geelong, where we unite to maximise the benefits of the Spirit of Tasmania connection and create meaningful outcomes for our communities.”

Executive Director, Tourism Greater Geelong and The Bellarine Tracy Carter:

“It’s a wonderful opportunity for our two regions to collaborate and enrich the visitor journey with memorable experiences on either side of their sailing.”

Spirit of Tasmania chief executive Chris Carbone:

“Spirit of Tasmania is proud to support this alliance between the City of Greater Geelong and Devonport City Council, two regions connected by more than just a sailing route.

This memorandum acknowledges the shared economic, cultural and community benefits that flow across Bass Strait and reinforces our long-standing commitment to fostering strong regional partnerships.”

Council endorses plan for a thriving Greater Geelong

Council has voted to endorse the draft Council Plan 2025-29, opening it for community consultation.

The draft Council Plan 2025-29 outlines the City’s proposed strategic direction “we are committed to advancing community outcomes for a thriving Greater Geelong.”

There are six draft objectives, relating to core and critical infrastructure, healthy and caring community, economic development, heritage and cultural identity, environment and circular economy, governance and integrity.

These strategic objectives are supported by major initiatives designed to help achieve them, along with indicators to track their progress.

The draft Council Plan 2025-29 has been developed in accordance with its deliberative engagement practices: a panel made up of representative community members and a community survey.

This engagement helps set the strategic direction of the Council for the four year period 2025 to 2029, addressing the community’s vision, Greater Geelong: A Clever and Creative Future.

The draft Council Plan 2025-29 will be open for consultation for four weeks, providing an opportunity for community to review the draft plan and share their feedback.

Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM:

“Our draft Council Plan 2025-29 is the guiding document which will take us through the next four years.

In getting to this stage, we sought feedback from across the community to really understand what people’s priorities were, and now, the community will have the chance to review the draft in its entirety before Council adopts the final plan later this year.”

Councillor Elise Wilkinson:

The Council Plan is one of our most important documents in terms of setting the direction for the next four years.

We want input from as many community members as possible so it can truly represent our community –make sure you visit our website by 25 June to have your say.

Feedback is now open and closes on 25 June 2025.

Refresh on the way for Balyang Par 3 Golf Course

Council has resolved to lease land in Newtown, home to Balyang Par 3 Golf Course, so it can be transformed into a family-friendly and fun golf and entertainment precinct that appeals to a diverse range of people.

Concepts for the site may include expanded and upgraded clubhouse facilities, driving range with state-of-the-art ball tracking technology, mini-golf course, short format golf course and other entertainment features.

As land manager, the City will lease the 33 Marnock Road site for up to 21 years following approval from the Minister for the Environment.

The City will soon undertake a public Request for Proposal process for redevelopment of the land. Proposals will have to include options for a minimum 9 and 18-hole short course and other golf activities.

Tenderers will need to demonstrate how the development will benefit our existing membership base and the broader community long-term and meet certain deliverables, such as:

• Community development, programs and activation to target groups such as women and girls, older adults, all abilities, multicultural backgrounds and school children;

• Community benefit and sustainability, including economic, social and environmental benefits; and

• Provide suitable facilities for The National Servicemen (‘the Nashos’), who have been holding regular competitions at the course for 20+ years, and other similar groups and individuals.

Our public engagement in August last year attracted 31 submissions; 20 were supportive of the land being leased for redevelopment, six submitters emphasised a desire to retain an 18-hole course while not objecting to a lease, and five made suggestions about how the land should be used. Three submitters appeared before the Submissions Review Panel in March.

“Balyang Par 3 is in need of a refresh to boost visitation and use of the facility.

We’re calling for innovative solutions that make the best use of the space as a golf facility while introducing entertainment elements that attract a broader range of community members.

This redevelopment will be an exciting investment in the golfing, lifestyle, recreational and wellbeing needs of our growing community.”

Councillor Anthony Aitken

“I wish to thank the community members who gave feedback on the lease proposal.

Council acknowledges and thanks the efforts of the community who had their say on this project, whether online or in person at the Submissions Review Panel.

This project has generated a lot of interest. The feedback has helped Council develop its future directions for this asset and how we can make sure the site lives up to its full potential.”

Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM:

Council votes to continue providing in-home community care

Council has voted to continue providing in-home community care services at last night’s meeting.

The decision follows new Commonwealth Government legislation, which will fundamentally change the way that services are delivered over a two-year period.

As part of the reforms, a program called Support at Home will replace Home Care Packages (HCP), the Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP).

The first stage of reform will see Support at Home take over from HCPs from 1 July 2025.

The reforms introduce a new Statement of Rights to ensure older people are treated with dignity and respect, changes to who can access aged care services and how they are funded, and stronger Aged Care Quality Standards, along with greater oversight from the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission.

Following the decision by Council, the City is preparing the necessary measures to ensure compliance with the new reforms, which will require a major shift to the way the service is managed and delivered in alignment with the new model established by the Commonwealth Government, including IT upgrades, the increased integration of health services into in-home aged care, strengthened quality standards and the implementation of the provisions in the new Aged Care Act.

These measures require significant additional expenditure, and the City will continue to advocate to the Federal Government in good faith for additional recurrent transition funding to support the changes.

Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj:

“This Council was voted in to listen to and advocate on behalf of the community we serve, and that’s what we’ve done.

It’s important to note that there will be some changes to how the service operates - these will be determined by the requirements of the Commonwealth Government, but our aspiration is for it to be consistent with the service they’ve come to know and love.

It’s been heartwarming to hear so many stories from people who have told us about how this service makes a difference in their lives every single day.

Council will continue to work and negotiate with the Commonwealth Government in good faith, and I thank the Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles and Member for Corangamite Libby Coker for their interest and support.”

City of Greater Geelong chief executive Ali Wastie:

“We will be taking this one step at a time, speaking to clients individually, and working with employees to explain exactly what’s changing for their service under these reforms.

Our teams are standing by to help anyone who is still unsure about what this means for them.”

In addition to sending clients an update by post, the latest information will be communicated online at geelongaustralia. com.au/care

For more information, staff are available to assist via phone on 5272 5272, or email at agedcarereform@geelongcity.vic.gov.au

Related information

• In Home Community Care Services at the City

Discover Geelong’s past at Shorts Place

In partnership with the National Film and Sound Archive (NFSA) the City of Greater Geelong is proud and excited to present Life in Australia: Geelong (1966) at the Shorts Place Projection Space on the corner of Shorts Place and Little Malop Street.

Each evening from dusk until Wednesday 18 June, visitors can experience a unique snapshot of Geelong’s history projected onto our city’s streets.

The film, which ties in with the finale of the Australian Heritage Festival, offers a glimpse into Geelong’s vibrant industrial past and the everyday lives of its residents in the mid-1960s.

Directed by Antonio Colacino, ‘Life in Australia: Geelong’ was produced by the Department of Immigration as part of a series of promotional films aimed at encouraging European immigrants to move to Australia and seize the opportunities the country had to offer.

The 20-minute film highlights Geelong’s industrial heart depicting many city sites in their heyday, including the grain elevators, refinery, cement works and, of course, the Ford factory.

With depictions of everyday life and customs, the film is a rosy picture from a certain point in history and invites the viewer to think of the ways in which Geelong has progressed socially over the intervening decades.

“The importance of local story has been a recurring theme voiced in feedback on the community engagement for a new Public Art Strategy 2025.

The City will continue to explore opportunities to showcase our unique stories and celebrate our culture through the Shorts Place Projection Space program.

Whether you’re a long-time resident or a newcomer to Geelong, this is an opportunity to experience the city’s history like never before.”

Councillor Eddy Kontelj, Arts & Culture, Hospitality & Live Entertainment chair

“In presenting Life in Australia: Geelong the City hopes to spark the recollection of shared memories.

When you’re walking through Little Malop Street over the next month, be sure to look out for the film in Shorts Place and see Geelong’s history projected.

Life in Australia: Geelong invites reflection on how far the city has come, socially and culturally, over the decades.”

Mayor Kontelj with Geelong residents beneath the Life in Australia: Geelong (1966) projection.

Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM

SUPPORT

Friend in Me

Powering Community-Led Climate Action: How Not-for-Profits Can Access Support for Local Energy Projects

Geelong Sustainability is a not-for-profit community organisation and registered charity with a purpose to build a powerful community movement for a just transition to a net zero future. Its work is grounded in partnership and driven by evidence-based solutions that benefit both people and the planet. The Community Power Hub is one of the ways it supports the community to address rising energy costs and lower emissions across the Barwon region.

As the impacts of climate change intensify, not-for-profit organisations are increasingly on the front lines—supporting vulnerable communities, running vital community facilities, and fostering social connection. But many face rising energy bills, ageing infrastructure, and limited resources to support community climate resilience head-on.

Community Power Hub

That’s where Geelong Sustainability’s Community Power Hub comes in. A Community Energy Officer works with community groups, sporting clubs and other not-for-profit organisations to provide free advice and assistance to cut energy bills and take climate action.

Supporting the Community

Over the last two years, Geelong Sustainability has supported 60 local organisations across the Barwon region, with the cumulative savings of implemented projects over $105,000 per year. These savings enable the groups to focus their funds into other areas, such as improving their facilities, implementing new community activities, or hiring staff.

The Community Power Hub can help with:

• Feasibility and energy assessments

• Energy saving upgrades

• Rooftop solar feasibility assessments

• Electrification planning

• Tracking organisational carbon footprints

• Net zero emission roadmaps

• Access to trusted suppliers and installers

• Grant application assistance

• Project coordination and oversight

• Ongoing community education and engagement.

Whatever your not-for-profit organisation, there are accessible, practical ways to reduce energy costs, cut emissions, and protect the people who rely on your services, with help from the Community Power Hub. This helps community organisations ensure their funds are going to where it’s needed most.

Unlocking Clean Energy with the Community Energy Revolving Fund

Complementing the Community Power Hub is another Geelong Sustainability initiative, the Community Energy Revolving Fund (CERF)—an interest-free loan program for not-for-profit organisations designed to overcome the upfront financial barriers to accessing energy saving upgrades.

“We are so grateful for the support of the CERF,” said Liz Bonner, CEO, Cloverdale Community Centre. “The interest-free loan (as well as a partial state government grant) allowed us to install solar with no upfront costs, making the project cashflow positive from day one. Thanks to the CERF, we are saving $5,000 per year on electricity costs and cutting 25 tonnes of carbon emissions annually—savings that can now be reinvested into our community support services.”

THE MONTH

How does the Fund Work?

The CERF provides interest-free loans to not-for-profit organisations for solar, battery storage, hot water heat pumps and a range of other energy efficiency upgrades. Repayments are offset by the savings generated on energy bills, making the upgrade cost-neutral or even cash-positive from day one.

Once repaid, the funds go back into helping support other organisations—a revolving fund supporting local energy savings opportunities.

The CERF has already helped a growing number of local organisations implement projects and achieve ongoing energy bill savings, such as the installation of rooftop solar for many sports clubs, neighbourhood houses, health organisations and community clubs.

The CERF also allows local not-for-profits to take advantage of available grants, where they can’t meet the full cost of works. These projects not only reduce emissions—they create healthier environments for community members, and free up funds for their core services.

Climate Safe Rooms: Protecting Vulnerable Residents

The award-winning Climate Safe Rooms initiative was developed by Geelong Sustainability to support people with complex healthcare needs that become worse during heatwaves and extreme cold. One room in the home is modified to ensure it does not become uncomfortably hot in summer or too cold in winter - all without increasing energy bills.

Through the initiative, Geelong Sustainability works with a range of community service providers to retrofit a room in vulnerable households—often the bedroom or living space—to be safe and comfortable during extreme temperatures.

This may involve targeted improvements like:

• Installing an efficient reverse cycle air conditioner together with a solar system to generate electricity and offset running costs

• Insulation and draught-proofing

• Window shading and sealing.

The program has resulted in improved indoor comfort, lower energy bills, and enhanced physical and mental wellbeing. “Everything that’s been done is healthier for me”, says Bellarine resident Deb. “I can’t explain how wonderful it is, and I just hope that this is going to go to more people who can’t afford to have these things done to their own home”.

Let’s Work Together

Geelong Sustainability knows not-for-profits are stretched thin, that’s why its programs and initiatives are designed to reduce the barriers of time, expertise and cost. If you’re part of a not-for-profit organisation, contact Geelong Sustainability to support your work and together, create a more climateresilient region for everyone.

www.facebook.com/geelongsustainability/

www.instagram.com/geelong_sustainability/

GAWS ASSISTS COMMUNITY WITH FREE CAT DESEXING PROGRAM

The Geelong Animal Welfare Society (GAWS) is helping make responsible pet ownership more achievable with its ‘Fix a Feline Friend for Free’ program.

With the support of Animal Welfare Victoria, GAWS is offering free desexing and microchipping for 120 eligible pet cats until July 31; aiming to assist pet owners who are in financial need.

GAWS CEO Helen Cocks said the free desexing program is part of GAWS’ commitment to provide services which enable responsible animal ownership and improve the wellbeing of both people and their pet companions.

“The wellbeing of both our community and pets is important to GAWS and we are pleased to be able to offer this free cat desexing and microchipping service,” Ms Cocks said.

“This initiative will help those who would like to desex their cat but are not in the financial position to do so. It will improve the health and wellbeing of the cat, reduce the number of unwanted cat pregnancies and reduce pressure on already crowded animal shelters.”

Cat owners can apply for a GAWS free cat desexing voucher through the National Desexing Network, a nationwide referral system for discounted desexing for pet owners in financial need.

Vouchers are available to applicants over the age of 18 who reside in the City of Greater Geelong, Surf Coast, Bellarine Peninsula, Golden Plains or Queenscliffe shires and hold a current Centrelink pension or concession card.

GAWS head veterinarian Dr Ruth Dover said the most well-known benefit of desexing a pet cat is to prevent unwanted litters, but the many additional health benefits might be a surprise to cat owners.

“Desexed cats often live longer, healthier lives because they are less prone to certain health issues and behaviours that can put them at risk,” Dr Ruth said.

“Desexing your cat can lower the risk of some infections and cancers. Cats who are desexed are less likely to engage in aggressive behaviour. It can reduce spraying, yowling, excessive grooming and roaming.

“Generally, desexed cats are more content and relaxed.”

Last year, almost 2000 cats came into GAWS care.

Fix a Feline Friend for Free voucher eligibility criteria:

• Applicants must be over the age of 18

• Reside in areas serviced by GAWS’ shelter and community vet clinic – City of Greater

• Geelong, Surf Coast, Bellarine Peninsula, Golden Plains or Queenscliffe shires.

• Hold a current Centrelink pension or concession card

• One voucher per person for one cat

• To be redeemed by 31st July 2025 (may be extended based on availability)

• Cats only, male or female

• 120 vouchers available

How to apply:

People who meet the eligibility criteria can call the National Desexing Network on 1300 368 992 to apply for a voucher.

For further information:

http://gaws.org.au/

What to do if you or someone you know is experiencing family violence

If you or someone you know or care about is in an unhealthy, abusive or violent relationship, there are some simple things you can do to get help or provide support.

Whatever your situation, it’s important to know that help is available. There are a range of support services you can reach out to if you’re experiencing violence at home or in a close relationship, or if you suspect that a friend, family member or neighbour may be experiencing family violence.

If you are experiencing violence

Call Triple Zero (000) if you need police or an ambulance immediately.

If English is not your first language, call Triple Zero (000) and tell them your language. They will connect an interpreter.

Reach out to one of the support services listed below.

If you can’t report the violence or seek help yourself, tell a friend, family member or neighbour as they can contact police or a support service on your behalf.

If you suspect family violence

It can be hard to tell if someone is experiencing family violence –there may be no obvious signs. Safe Steps provides some signs you can and should look out for.

If you are concerned for the safety of a neighbour, friend or family member, you can reach out to police or one of the support services listed here. It doesn’t have to be an emergency.

However, if you become aware that a person is in immediate or urgent danger because of family violence (for example, you overhear loud threats of physical harm made against your neighbour by their partner or parent), you should immediately call Triple Zero (000).

Safe steps www.safesteps.org.au 1800 015 188 (toll free)

1800 RESPECT www.1800respect.org.au 1800 737 732 (toll free)

Women’s Information and Referral Exchange www.wire.org.au 1300 134 130 (cost of local call)

Kids Helpline www.kidshelpline.org.au 1800 551 800 (toll free)

Mensline Australia www.mensline.org.au 1300 789 978 (cost of local call)

InTouch www.intouch.org.au 1800 755 988 (toll free)

Djirra www.djirra.org.au 1800 105 303

Men’s Referral Service www.ntv.org.au 1300 766 491 (cost of local call

Orange Door www.orangedoor.vic.gov.au

Legal Aid www.legalaid.vic.gov.au

Women’s Legal Service Victoria www.womenslegal.org.au

What happens if I call for help?

These services are available to help people experiencing violence feel safe and supported and to assist people using violence to change their behaviour.

Making a safety plan

Safety planning is thinking about things you can do to be safer when living with violence or abuse.

The best way to make a safety plan is with the help of a support service. Some of the things you may wish to consider include:

Speak to neighbours you know and trust. Ask them to call police on Triple Zero (000) if they hear violence or abuse.

Have a safe place to go if you need to leave.

Keep a list of important numbers in your wallet or mobile phone that you can call in an emergency, such as local taxis, crisis accommodation and the local police station.

Protect your Plates

The number one item stolen from vehicles in Victoria is Number Plates. Get your plates protected today!, Have anti theft screws fitted to your vehicle for as little as a gold coin donation.

WHERE: Bunnings Waurn Ponds (rear carpark)

WHEN: Saturday 21 June, 2025 10am – 2pm

Brought to you by community partners - Neighbourhood Watch Greater Geelong, Bunnings Waurn Ponds, Waurn Ponds Police and South Barwon SES.

1300 792 387 (cost of local call)

1800 133 302 (toll free) or (03) 8622 0600

If you contact police, they will take steps to ensure that you and your family (or the person you are calling about) are protected and will connect you with support services.

MEMBERSHIP MAY

Become a member in May and not only will you help support young people, you'll go in the draw to win fantastic prizes!

Annual membership benefits:

Help empower young people on their employment journey

20% discount on bike servicing 10% discount on parts, accessories & apparel Exclusive offers

SIGN UP IN-STORE OR ONLINE

Win from over $4000 worth of prizes from our generous partners:

TICKETS

$20 FULL / $15 CONC.

Get ready for a frightfully fun night of trivia at the iconic Piano Bar Geelong! On Friday 13th June, we’re summoning all ghouls, ghosts, and quiz-loving mortals for Boo-Bird Trivia – a devilishly delightful fundraiser hosted by Bluebird’s incredible Volunteer Team.

Gather your coven (or creep in solo – we’ll find you a haunted table), and prepare for fast and furious trivia. If your brain’s as sharp as a vampire’s fang and your trivia skills are to die for, join us— if you dare!

• Doors creak open at 5.30pm

• First spine-tingling question at 6pm sharp

• Prizes, fun, and all for a great cause – supporting Bluebird’s community arts programs

bronlawson@bluebirdfoundationinc.org.au

www.bluebirdfoundationinc.org.au

http://facebook.com/BluebirdFoundationInc

www.instagram.com/Bluebird_Foundation

The Joyful Journey: 25 Years of Laughing Together

Winter is truly upon us in Geelong and we are rugging up against the cold and moving about to get warm.

Sharing laughter with other people and laughing for no reason at all is one of the best ways you can warm your body and soul.

During the cold winter months the benefit of laughing out loud can be felt right from the moment you take your first breath. Scientific studies have shown that people of all ages benefit from regular laughter yoga sessions in a group.

In the words of the Founder of Laughter Yoga, Indian physician Dr Madan Kataria, “It combines laughter exercises with yoga breathing techniques which brings more oxygen to our body and brain making us feel more energetic and healthy. Ten to 15 minutes of laughter yoga exercises can reduce stress, make your imune system stronger and keep your mind positive during challenging times”.

Laughter yoga provides a rich network of caring-sharing relationships with people and builds communities. Since laughter is a universal language, you can connect with people from all around the world irrespective of language, culture and country.

Laughter can positively impact our physical emotional and social wellbeing lowering stress, depression and anxiety. In a world full of noise, laughter cuts through and connects, and is a powerful tool for a lasting effect.

Hundreds of people, some daily, at one of the thousands of social community laughter clubs around the world, come together like those laughers who gather every Saturday between 9:00 – 9:30 am at Eastern Beach in front of the wading pool to enjoy the happiest way to wellness.

Save the date:

Saturday 19 July Laughter Club will celebrate 25 years of bringing more laughter and joy into the lives of hundreds of people. People of all ages and abilities are welcome to come along and join in the fun.

The Geelong Community Disability Expo is brought to you by Connect Support Services & Solutions.

This free event is designed to connect people living with disabilities, their families, guardians, support workers and disability providers. The expo will feature local disability providers ready to answer your questions, provide expert insights, and guide you in achieving your NDIS goals. This event also offers a fantastic opportunity for providers to network with fellow professionals in the local community.

The first 200 people on the day will also receive a free coffee!

There will be a wide range of services and products on display, from assistive technologies to support services, all aimed at helping you succeed in your NDIS journey.

Who Should Attend?

• People living with a disability seeking support and resources

• Carers and guardians of people living with a disability

• Support workers looking for local providers

• Disability providers seeking networking opportunities

On the Day

• Meet with local Disability providers

• Information stalls and expert guidance

• Networking opportunities for professionals working in the disability industry

LEOPOLD SPORTSMANS CLUB BOWLS

In 1971 a couple of locals, Len Lewis and Kevin Ash had an idea for a bowls club in Leopold. The idea took hold, a committee formed and money raised. A location was needed that would have enough space for two bowling greens and a clubhouse. Finally this was located in Kensington Road, our current location and 5 acres purchased for $8500.

In May 1975 the club was officially opened as a family friendly sporting club by Brian Dixon, the then Minister for Youth, Sport and Recreation.

You can see the results for yourself on visiting our club.

There are so many people to thank over many years for their support, encouragement and voluntary help along with the the original crew that helped established the club.

Leopold Sporties, located in Leopold, Victoria, is a club based on sports. We offer Bowls, both social and Pennant, Golf, Racquet Ball and Squash.

in the spotlight

Getting to know your find Geelong contributors

Steve Dahllof

I have been painting for 38 years now and my love for painting gives me an opportunity and running. I have been doing factory painting, maintenance painting and currently,

Our business is about making peoples’ houses better either for selling or living. We take general painting, spray painting and glazing of wooden windows. We specialise in high

We are happy to help any clients paint their house to improve it as we have restoration get the job done in an efficient amount of time whilst making sure it is up to our standards,

spotlight contributors

Geelong

opportunity to run my own company, Dahllof Painting Services, for 25 years now which is still up I mostly do contract painting.

pride in everything we do from the little things to the big things. Our services include all high end restoration work but will do anything.

work. No job is too big or too small for us. If you need a reliable painting team that will standards, then give us a call 0407 365 372.

THE GEELONG ARTS

Rockaria The ELO Experience

TRIBUTE SHOW

Rockaria - The ELO Experience is heading to The Play House in 2025! Fri, 06 Jun 2025 07:30pm

Rockaria - The ELO Experience is a show that delivers a captivating live concert repeating the unforgettable sound of Jeff Lynne’s The Electric Light Orchestra.

Evil Woman, Rock and Roll is King, Don’t Bring me Down, Xanadu, Telephone Line, Turn to Stone and also featuring music from Jeff Lynne’s Traveling Wilburys.

So many hit song you will not want this night to finish.

Tickets are on sale now!

The Hindley Street Country Club, Just Gets Better

Hindley Street Country Club are returning to Geelong in 2025!

After a breakout year in 2024, HSCC are set to embark on their first national theatre tour in 2025 with their awesome 11 piece band of premium musicians, spectacular enhanced production values, with fresh new songs and your favourites in an all killer no filler 2 hour set that’ll leave you dancing in the aisles.

Don’t miss this spectacular show!

Performances: Fri, 06 Jun 202508:10pm

CENTRE SEASON 2025

MALTHOUSE THEATRE

- THE BIRDS

IMMERSIVE | RIVETING | THRILLER

THE WIND WILL CHANGE. AND THEY’LL BE WAITING.

Overnight, the weather has turned in a small town. A war has been declared and there’s no one who can stop it. One family sounds the warning, but what can you do when denial is as easy as keeping your head down?

Award-winning actor Paula Arundell (Harry Potter and the Cursed Child) sends your pulse skyrocketing in this adrenaline-shot adaptation of Daphne du Maurier’s classic gothic horror that Hitchcock immortalised in film.

Lights off, headphones on, it is time to be immersed in a theatrical feat of audio engineering. Enter a nightmarish soundscape of flying feathers, murderous swoops and thrilling carnage directed by Matthew Lutton (responsible for making you scream during Picnic at Hanging Rock and written by the frighteningly talented Louise Fox (Broadchurch, Glitch).

As you dodge and duck out of reach, just remember: the big-wigs in the city won’t save you.

110% Ready

The Listies | FAMILY MAGIC 2025

SLAPSTICK | JOYFUL | RAUCOUS

In this show The Listies perform a miracle! 110% Ready sees Rich and Matt do something no family in Australia has ever done before: LEAVE THE HOUSE ON TIME!

Well, that’s what Rich thinks anyway. Matt on the other hand has a different plan. He may or may not have accidentally flushed the car keys down the toilet.

THEATRE

Perfomances: Wed, 11-14, Jun 2025 07:30pm

Featuring a pocketful of puns, silly slapstick sight gags, and a splash of improvisational idiocy, 110% Ready sees Melbourne’s masters of mirth do what they do best for 55 solid minutes of full family lols.

This brand-new show is all about the joys of the average morning routine: sleeping through the alarm, not having any milk, fishing dirty clothes out of the hamper, burning the toast, and then finding the front door is glued shut, the shower won’t switch off, and the house is filling with water.

Dedicated to anyone who has ever been in charge of someone who is impossible to get out the front door in the am.

Performances: Sat, 21 Jun 202512:00pm Sat, 21 Jun 202503:00pm

Buy Tickets

Kitty Flanagan - It’s Whiteboard O’Clock

(Work in Progress Show)

POSTPONEMENT INFORMATION

Due to unforeseen circumstances, Kitty Flanagan has to re-schedule her April shows to June. All tickets valid for the corresponding dates below:

If you are unable to attend on your rescheduled date here are your options:

Exchange your tickets to another of the rescheduled shows (pending availability). Please contact the box office to organise this – 1300 251 200 or email boxoffice@geelongartscentre.org. au

In accordance with the LPA ticketing guidelines if you are unable to attend on the rescheduled date you are entitled to a full refund - Please call the box office or send your booking reference number to boxoffice@geelongartscentre.org.au

(Please note refunds will only be offered until Monday 28th April – after that date, any requests will be considered on a case-bycase basis)

If you are happy to attend your rescheduled date you don’t need to do anything - your tickets will be emailed to you 72 hours prior to the show and will reflect the new date as above.

Burnout Paradise

If you need any assistance, please contact the box office.

We thank you for your understanding.

The Geelong Arts Centre Team

PERFORMANCES 16 - 24, June 2025 07:30pm

HEART-PUMPING | CHAOTIC | RELATABLE

Four performers mount four treadmills. What begins as a simple wager between performer and audience becomes a desperate attempt to complete a series of escalating tasks that confront the limitations of the performer’s bodies, spirits and minds.

This is not an endurance feat. Nor is it performance art. It is an unraveling realisation that the system we participate in is not designed for us. A delusional and physical celebration of our collective struggle to establish clear boundaries in our lives.

Performances Fri, 27-28 Jun 202507:30pm

FRINGE/CABARET

Hans ‘Young, Fun and 21’

International cabaret sensation Hans is turning 21, and you’re invited to the celebration of the decade!

After decades of global fame, the Berlin-born star is finally revealing (almost) all in this highly anticipated coming-of-age cabaret show, Hans: Young, Fun and 21, touring nationally in 2025.

GSODA Junior Players

Present Disney’s High School Musical On Stage

GSODA Junior Players are bringing the smash hit Disney’s High School Musical live on stage to Geelong Arts Centre!

Troy, Gabriella and the students of East High must deal with issues of first love, friends and family while balancing their classes and extracurricular activities. This production is full of energy, a great soundtrack and of course Cheer!

It’s the first day after winter break at East High. The Jocks, Brainiacs, Thespians and Skater Dudes find their cliques, recount their vacations and look forward to the new year. Basketball team captain and resident jock, Troy, discovers that the brainy Gabriella, a girl he met singing karaoke on his ski trip, has just enrolled at East High. They cause an upheaval when they decide to audition for the high school musical that is being led by Ms. Darbus.

Although many students resent the threat posed to the “status quo,” Troy and Gabriella’s alliance might just open the door for others to shine as well.

Disney’s High School Musical is fun for the whole family and the GSODA Junior Players can’t wait to see you at their vibrant and sensational production of this family favourite, after all, we’re all in this together!

Tickets are on sale now!

Widely adored for his glamorous performances and cheeky humour, Hans has kept much of his personal life under wraps… until now. In Young, Fun and 21, the international superstar opens up to audiences in an unforgettable birthday party celebration joined by his dynamic live band, The Ungrateful B*stards, the fabulous dancers, The Lucky B*tches. As well as a few other surprises that are sure to keep you on your toes.

“I’ve been subjected to much rumour and innuendo for much of my life, so as I turn 21, I’ve decided it’s time to set the record straight. This is going to be more than a show, it’s going to be a party, so don’t miss it – there might even be fairy bread!” Says Hans.

Tickets are on sale now!

Performances

Sat, 28 Jun 2025

Buy Tickets

07:30pm

Sat, 28 Jun 2025

Sat, 28 Jun 2025

05 Jul 2025

COMMUNITY THEATRE

You Yangs Off-road (Duathlon &

Trail Runs)

EVENT DATE: JUNE 15, 2025

• Trailblazer Trail Runs 10km, 7km, 4km

• Dirty Duathlon

- Short Course - 3km Run / 14km Mountain Bike Ride (approx) / 3km Run

- Long Course - 6km Run / 28km Mountain Bike Ride (approx) / 6km Run.

Both distances can be completed individually or part of a 2 person team

START TIMES:

• Duathlon

- Long Course - 9:00am

- Short Course - 9:25am

• Trail Runs

- 10km and 7km - 9:35am

- 4km - 9:40am

VENUE:

You Yangs Regional Park. (Event site is just inside the main entrance gate off Branch Rd)

FIELD LIMITS:

- Duahlon (Individual) - 250

- Duathlon (TEAMS) - 30

- Trail Runs - 4km - 100, 7km - 170, 10km - 235

LOCAL EVENTS

Cold Chisel are unquestionably one of the most loved and respected bands in Australian history. They produced some of the greatest and most wellknown Australian anthems and they perform with a truly unique sound and unparalleled energy.

It is with great pride that Gold Chisel take these songs across Australia and allow audiences to relive their memories and at the same time, introduce these great songs to a whole new generation of fans.

Established in the year of 2000, Gold Chisel not only recreate the unique sound of Cold Chisel but they also recapture the amazing energy on stage that made Cold Chisel one of Australia’s most loved bands and biggest draw cards. For over two decades, Gold Chisel has thrilled Cold Chisel fans across the country and even abroad with what has been described by many as the closest

Bookings Now

JUNE 7 - 8, 2025

2025

thing you will ever hear to the real thing. Even the toughest of critics have sung their praises with Jimmy Barnes’ own brothers having joined the guys on stage. Alan Barnes (Jimmy’s younger brother) referred to Gold Chisel as “The Premium Cold Chisel Show... The Best in Australia!” and older brother Swanee saying “Andy” fits the mold perfectly! Triple M’s Ugly Phil said “Andy is the best Jimmy Barnes impersonator I’ve ever heard”.

Playing all the Cold Chisel hits that have become anthems in their own right, together with many other Chisel faourites, Gold Chisel are an absolute crowd please wherever they go and a must see for all Cold Chisel fans and lovers of Great Aussie Rock Music!

Date & Location Sat, 14 Jun, 2025 at 09:00 pm (AEST)

2 Thompson Rd, North Geelong, Vic, Victoria 3215

2-6 Thompson Rd, North Geelong Vic 3215, Victoria, Geelong, Australia

Tickets for Gold Chisel can be booked here

FIND TICKETS

IT IS 1899, MRS HANNAH BRYDEN, THE PICTURE OF RESPECTABLE WIDOWHOOD, HAS LIVED ALONE IN HER SPRAWLING MANSION FOR THE PAST FEW YEARS.

She enjoys nothing save for the occasional company of her dressmaker, the flamboyant and sharp tongued Mr. Bertin.

But when massive advances in the fashion industry jeopardize Bertin’s livelihood, he hatches a plan to save both of them from obscurity. Hannah must come out of her widow’s blacks and launch herself once more as one of Melbourne’s leading socialites at an upcoming masquerade ball, clad in the most jaw-dropping fashion statement Bertin has ever attempted.

An entertaining historical story of two unlikely allies, propelling each other towards purpose and the spark of life, even as old age creeps upon them.

“The Dress is a heart-warming historical play that is definitely worth seeing . . . you won’t be disappointed.” Theatre Travels

Email: info@essenceproductions.com.au

Website: https://www.essencetheatre.productions/ 0439 690 091

K Road Werribee South VIC 3030

20 June 2025

NIGHTIDE FRINGE IS A SMALL, INTIMATE FESTIVAL CELEBRATING THE WINTER SOLSTICE AND HELD ON THE SHORES OF SWAN BAY IN BEAUTIFUL QUEENSCLIFF .

KING PARROT : Geelong w/- Nicolas Cage Fighter + Grytt + Chrome Gypsy

King Parrot is launching their new record “A Young Person’s Guide To King Parrot” all over Australia with a swag of tour dates announced through May and June! The album marks the band’s first output in five years; a hostile and abrasive slab of sensory destroying anthems featuring ten thoroughly crafted blasts through the psyche of the crazed Aussie quintet. It was recorded at Melbourne’s Dangertone studios with engineer Luke Walton and it’s the first full-length album since 2017’s ARIA nominated Ugly Produce and their first new music since 2020’s Holed Up In The Lair EP.

Applying a similar approach to the writing process of their previous records, which has been historically organic and old-school, KING PARROT adopted a new approach to the studio process. Pulling the new record together was a meticulously creative endeavour and the final product is the most complete, aggressive, and urgent the band has ever sounded. Now it’s your turn to catch this new material, with a full headlining set in the live setting for the first time! from: www.kingparrot.net

Think cold. Think dark. Think open fires and ice baths, wood fired sauna, and gypsy tellers of fortune. Think music with the ethereal Dandelion Wine and the extraordinary Gareth Skinner.

Your soul will be nourished by music and they’ll nourish your tummies too with communal feasting. They’re planning a few other surprises too!

Join in to celebrate the midwinter in a truly Queenscliff fashion, with starts, fire, food, music and friends.

$75 per person including the tummy filler. nightidefringe@gmail.com

0497 815 402

Queenscliff Lonsdale Yacht Club 90 King Street Queenscliff VIC 3225

http://facebook.com/nightidefringe https://instagram.com/nightidefringe

Bookings Now

Friday 6 June - Republic Bar, Hobart

Saturday 7 June - Royal Oak, Launceston

Friday 20 June - Brunswick Ballroom, Melbourne VIC

Saturday 21 June - Barwon Club, Geelong VIC

Sunday 22 June - Singing Bird, Frankston VIC (Arvo All Ages)

Friday 27 June - Crowbar, Sydney NSW

Saturday 28 June - Thrashville, Hunter Valley NSW

Date & Location Sat, 21 Jun, 2025 at 07:00 pm (AEST)

The Barwon Club Hotel 509 Moorabool St, South Geelong Vic 3220, Victoria, Geelong, Australia

FIND TICKETS

Royale with Cheese Ultimate 90s Rock Show | Eureka Hotel, Geelong

Royale with Cheese is AUSTRALIA’S PREMIER 90s ROCK SHOW, playing all 90s rock and pop covers – from Seattle-sound to Grunge to Britpop and all the best Oz Rock from the 90s. Royale with Cheese is not just a covers band - it’s a rollicking 90s party reviving one of the greatest and most influential decades in rock music.

From Nirvana, Pearl Jam and Soundgarden to Radiohead, Blur and Oasis to Silverchair, You Am I and Screaming Jets to Red Hot Chili Peppers, Green Day and Blink 182, Royale with Cheese magically weaves all these 90s sounds into a night that’ll have you feeling nostalgic for the last great decade of rock music!

Come as you are to smash pumpkins and RAGE AGAINST THE 90s!

Paint & Sip Social Night in Lara!

Join us for our monthly Paint & Sip Social Event! Combining a great night out with raising much needed funds for people in need in our community.

This month each table will have their own theme to choose from, pictures will be supplied on your table.

Open to teenagers and adults of all abilities!! We recommend a minimum age of 9 for children (please note that children attending cannot be running around!)

Doors open at 6pm for a 6.30pm start!

All painting materials, canvas and easel will be supplied. Both acrylic and poster paint is available. Painting is done at your own pace.

BYO NIDDLES & SNACKS, drinks available at very affordable bar prices!!

Each ticket will include a $10 donation to an organization, individual or family within our immediate community. Suggestions/ nominations are welcomed from attendees for upcoming events.

Tickets are $25pp purchased through this link: https://events.humanitix.com/ paint-and-sip-social-event-lara-vt44w5nt/ tickets?dateId=67802a893ec6403430135c26

Don’t take our word for it! Here’s what our fans have to say:

Great to see some serious love for the music that rocked a generation

Fantastic musicians! Vocals were fantastic I actually thought they might have mimed they were that good! Loved every minute of it!!!! I’ll be following these wonderful performers!

Awesome Band!! Nailed every cover, loved the mix ups too. Tight, gutsy and loud- One of the best bands I’ve seen live.

Had such an awesome time on Saturday night!

Full of energy & fun, smashed every song & lovely guys too. Cant wait til the next gig!!

Best 90’s tribute band ever!!!

Amazing vocals, you guys are the best!!! Fantastic stage presence, you know how to get the crowd jumping thanks for the rocktastic night.

Date & Location Fri, 20 Jun, 2025 at 08:00 pm to 11:30 pm (AEST)

Eureka Hotel 98 Little Malop Street, Vic, Geelong, Australia

A limited amount of extra canvas’s will be available on the night for those who wish to do 2 paintings, these can be purchased for $10, please bring correct cash!

Please DM our page or contact Natasha on 0403 577 721 with any further questions!

The proceeds for this event will be going to Lara Helping Hands - an amazing initiative led by Lara Lake Primary and some very special people who provide hampers of goodies and necessities to local families during Christmas and Easter, who may be doing it tough and deserve to be reminded that they are not alone.

Fri, 13 Jun, 2025 at 06:00 pm to 10:00 pm (AEST)

Lara Golf Club, Elcho Rd, Lara Vic 3212, Lovely Banks, Victoria, Geelong, Australia

FIND TICKETS

FIND TICKETS

Schlager Party

Come to the German Club Geelong (aka Närrische Insulaner) and dance the night away, German style.

The best of German music from the 70s till today, combined with drinks at affordable bar prices, and we’ll party all night.

German Club Schlagerparty 2025

Sat, 14 June 2025, 6pm - 11pm

German Club Geelong (45 Arunga Ave, Norlane; just behind Bunnings)

Ticket: $15 Members, $20 Non-Members, $25 at the door Tickets come with a complimentary Schnaps and Pretzel, and all proceeds go towards the upkeep of the German Club.

Wood Chopping Championships at Blackman’s Brewery, Torquay

Our second annual Wood Chopping Championship is ON!! With a special guest Bluegrass Band so that we can fire up the outside dance floor once the winner is crowned. Lock it in!

We’re bringing back all the nostalgia and magic of local chopping champs from back in the day. All while drinking a local beer, cider and seltzer at the brewery.

You can look forward to fun-filled games, a prize for best dressed and a raffle on the night. There will be German sausages (vegetarian option available) with bread/potato salad, and sweet or salty nibble platters for sale.

Date & Location Sat, 14 Jun, 2025 at 06:00 pm (AEST)

22 Arunga Ave, Norlane Vic 3214, Victoria, Geelong, Australia

The Western Victorian Axeman’s Association has secured a full line up of competitors, and the format is going to see out an action packed day. 12 underhand competitors and 12 standing block competitors, cutting one on one in two separate events. We’ll end with two finals of 3 competitors and announce the champion.

Followed by some live tunes and a little dancing, we are SO EXCITED about this one!!!

Proudly sponsored by:

Major Sponsor Black Bear Projects Plus Echo Beach Landscapes and Future Construction.

Free entry on the day. No BYO Food or Drink, only Blackman’s Food and Beers permitted. This is an outdoor event so please dress warm.

See you there!!

Also check out other Sports events in Anglesea, Music events in Anglesea, Entertainment events in Anglesea.

THE SUPERJESUS - ALBUM TOUR

Off the back of joining Cold Chisel on their BIG Five -O Tour, The Superjesus hit the road in support of their new single ’Something Good’. And that it is ….. ‘Something Good’ is the 5th single from the bands forthcoming full length album, due to drop early 2025.

Screamfeeder will join the bill in Qld, Dallas Frasca in Melbourne, and newcomers Disgraceland (The Punk Rock Elvis Experience) in NSW.

GET READY FOR A NIGHT OF PURE LAUGHTER, AMAZEMENT AND UNFORGETTABLE FUN ON FRIDAY, JUNE 21 FROM 6.15PM AS HYPNOTIST AND ENTERTAINER ADAM PALMER MAKES HIS 360Q DEBUT!

With more than 15 years’ experience hypnotising audiences and more than 30 years as a performer and stand-up comedian, Adam brings you a show that’s as mind-blowing as it is hilarious. Volunteers become the true stars of the show – performing incredible, unexpected feats under hypnosis –while friends in the audience are left in hysterics.

Bonus: $10 from every ticket supports the Point Lonsdale VIEW Club and children’s education through The Smith Family.

Enjoy a two-course dinner, a beverage package of beer, wine and soft drinks, stunning harbour views – and a night you’ll be talking about for years!

Website: https://www.trybooking.com/DBGKU Email: nightidefringe@gmail.com

2 Wharf Street East Queenscliff VIC 3225

About The Superjesus

Since bursting out of Adelaide in the mid-’90s, The Superjesus have had nine Top 50 hits, two Top 10 albums, placed five songs in Triple J’s Hottest 100, won three ARIA Awards from eight nominations, and been inducted into the South Australian Music Hall of Fame.

It’s been quite a ride. And there are many more chapters to be written in The Superjesus story.

Sarah McLeod and Stuart Rudd have been the lifeblood of this band since its inception and together they have created The Superjesus sound.

“Ruddy and I are like family,” Sarah says. “We love what we do and we love our band. There are still so many songs to write and so many new things to learn. And with every new song comes a new lesson. It’s a very exciting time.”

Date & Location

Sat, 14 Jun, 2025 at 08:00 pm (AEST)

Barwon Heads Hotel 1 Bridge Road, Vic, Barwon Heads, Australia

BECKLEY PARK MARKET HAS BEEN AROUND FOR OVER 40 YEARS.

You can purchase a wide variety of goods such as fruit and vegetables, delicatessen goods, bread, eggs, household goods, candles, clothes and footwear, pet food and accessories, flowers, plants, hardware, movies and music, second hand ‘Bric-aBrac’ and more.

They look forward to welcoming you soon at Beckley Park Market! beckleyparkmarket@gmail.com 0408 704 440

Beckley Park Centre 41 Broderick Road Corio VIC 3214

https://www.facebook.com/Beckleymarket

Bookings now JUNE 28-29, 2025 MAY 31- DEC 19, 2026

No prior artistic expertise is necessary—just bring your enthusiasm and curiosity, and they’ll take care of the rest. Every workshop is a canvas for your creativity, infused with the essence of Anatolia.

icture yourself embarking on an enchanting artistic adventure, right here in Geelong. Their Anatolian Art Classes are not just workshops; they are gateways to unlocking your inner artist and embracing the rich heritage of Anatolian creativity.

Whether you’re a novice eager to explore the world of art or a seasoned artist refining your craft, their dedicated instructors are here to nurture your talents. They offer a blend of traditional mosaic lamp making and ceramic painting, infused with the spirit of Anatolia.

Mosaic Lamp Making Workshop: Assemble mosaic pieces to craft your very own lamp, bringing a unique piece of art into your home.

Ceramic Painting Workshop: Freely apply your dream patterns and colours onto ceramics, creating your personal masterpiece.

Immerse yourself in the art of Anatolia, where centuries-old techniques blend seamlessly with contemporary innovation. Their skilled instructors will unveil the hidden secrets passed down through generations, connecting the past with the present.

https://www.artmasterclass.com.au/ support@artmasterclass.com.au 0483 955 983

genU Eastern Hub (Hinchcliff Room) 285A McKillop St East Geelong VIC 3219

https://www.facebook.com/artmasterclass.au https://www.youtube.com/@artmasterclassAU https://www.instagram.com/artmasterclass.au/

Bon But Not Forgotten, the world-renowned AC/DC tribute band, is hitting the road for an epic Australian tour to mark five decades of legendary and electrifying rock ‘n’ roll. This highvoltage tour will celebrate AC/DC’s iconic legacy, performing timeless hits that have shaped the sound of rock music across generations.

The Australian rock titans have delivered decades of anthems like “Highway to Hell” “T.N.T.” and “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” and Bon But Not Forgotten is set to pay homage to these classics.

No prior artistic expertise is necessary—just bring your enthusiasm and curiosity, and they’ll take care of the rest. Every workshop is a canvas for your creativity, infused with the essence of Anatolia.

JUNE 19-21, 2025 JUNE 28, 2025

Immerse yourself in the art of Anatolia, where centuries-old techniques blend seamlessly with contemporary innovation. Their skilled instructors will unveil the hidden secrets passed down through generations, connecting the past with the present.

Bookings now

https://bonbutnotforgotten.com.au/ hello@aaaentertainment.com.au

The Wool Exchange 44 Corio Street Geelong VIC 3220

THE AUSTRALIAN BALLET IS COMING TO GEELONG WITH A BREATHTAKING PROGRAM THAT BLENDS CLASSICAL FAVOURITES, SIGNATURE WORKS AND BOLD CONTEMPORARY INNOVATION.

In partnership with The Australian Ballet School, the program will showcase highlights from The Australian Ballet’s extensive repertoire and includes the dazzling Allegro Brillante by George Balanchine, alongside the pas de deux from Diamonds in Jewels. Act II of The Nutcracker will have audiences feeling the festive spirit early and Lucy Guerin’s new work, Ground Control, will make its exclusive premiere.

Perfect for both existing ballet lovers and those discovering the magic of ballet for the first time.

https://geelongartscentre.org.au/whats-on/all-events/theaustralian-ballet-on-tour-2/ boxoffice@geelongartscentre.org.au

1300 251 200

Geelong Arts Centre - The Play House 50 Little Malop Street Geelong VIC 3220

KASEY CHAMBERS - BACKBONE TOUR

JUNE 7, 2025

AUSTRALIAN COUNTRY MUSIC ROYALTY KASEY CHAMBERS, WHOSE DISTINCTIVE VOICE, HEARTFELT LYRICS AND WORLD-CLASS PERFORMANCES HAVE EARNED HER THE RIGHTFUL POSITION OF ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR AND ACCLAIMED ARTISTS OF HER GENERATION, IS HITTING THE ROAD ON A NATIONAL ALBUM TOUR CELEBRATING HER NEWEST RECORD BACKBONE AND A JOURNEY DOWN THROUGH THE YEARS OF HER CAREER AND LIFE.

With a career spanning over 25 years, Kasey continues to inspire with her trademark authenticity and unwavering commitment to her craft. At a time when she could easily rest on her laurels the beloved singer, songwriter, producer, author, mum and ARIA Hall-of-Famer instead launches herself into one of her most ambitious projects to date officially returning with both her ninth solo album, Backbone and her new book.

Hailed as bringing Australian country music into the mainstream, Kasey has won 14 x ARIA Music Awards, 24 x CMAA Golden Guitar Awards, and 10 x APRA Music Awards. Her 12 albums have sold more than 15 x platinum, and include 5 x No. 1 albums, and her double-platinum No. 1 single ‘Not Pretty Enough’

JUNE 7, 25 - SEP 6, 2025

Don’t miss out on an evening of incredible storytelling and performances of fan-favourite hits and brand-new music! https://geelongartscentre.org.au/whats-on/all-events/kaseychambers-backbone-tour-2025/

boxoffice@geelongartscentre.org.au

Geelong Arts Centre 50 Little Malop Street Geelong VIC 3220 https://www.facebook.com/geelongartscentre https://www.instagram.com/GeelongArtsCentre

THE GOLDEN PLAINS AND MOORABOOL VALLEY REGIONS ARE FAMOUS FOR FRESH FOOD, LOCAL PRODUCE, FREE-RANGE MEATS, FLOWERS, AWARDWINNING WINES, GOURMET FOOD PRODUCERS, ARTISAN GOODS AND BREATHTAKING SCENERY.

Only 20 minutes from Geelong in the heart of Bannockburn, the Golden Plains Farmers’ Market is held on the first Saturday of each month (except January) from 8:30am to 12:30pm and presents the best the region has to offer in a relaxed and friendly environment. So, come and enjoy a morning out with family and friends at the Golden Plains Farmers’ Market.

https://geelongartscentre.org.au/whats-on/all-events/theaustralian-ballet-on-tour-2/

boxoffice@geelongartscentre.org.au

(03) 5220 7111

Geelong Arts Centre - The Play House 50 Little Malop Street Geelong VIC 3220

GEELONG LEGO BRICK SHOW

PLAYWELL EVENTS ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO BE HEADING TO GEELONG WITH THEIR AWESOME LEGO EXHIBITION.

This event will be held at the Geelong West Town Hall. They will have an amazing variety of custom-built LEGO models on display. With themes ranging from Star Wars, Architecture & Marvel to a huge City layout, there will be something for everyone.

They’ll have their ever-popular play tables where the kids can get creative and build themselves as well as several other interactive displays.

There will also be opportunities to purchase LEGO sets and parts on the day from vendors. https://www.facebook.com/events/3510787672556159 graham@playwellevents.com.au

PLAYWELL EVENTS ARE LOOKING FORWARD TO BE HEADING TO GEELONG WITH THEIR AWESOME LEGO EXHIBITION. Bookings now JUNE 7-8, 2025 JUNE 5, 2025

Line dances include: Electric Slide, Mamma Maria, Rocket to the Sun, Bar Song.

https://flyingbrickciderco.com.au/blogs/news/toe-the-lineboot-scooting-flying-brick

ciderhouse@flyingbrickciderco.com.au

(03) 5250 6577 Flying Brick Cider House 1251-1269 Bellarine Hwy Wallington VIC 3222

Geelong West Town Hall 153 Pakington St Geelong West VIC 3218 https://www.facebook.com/PlaywellEvents/ https://www.instagram.com/playwellevents/ A hootin’ scootin’ hollerin’ night of line dancing, fun and hearty Texan

THE AUSTRALIAN INXS TRIBUTE SHOW

Into the Fold beckons viewers into a personal exploration of the Bellarine Peninsula, where each piece unfolds as a unique portrait of the landscape. Woven together through close observation and the delicate threads of memory, these works capture not just the physical contours of the land, but the emotional and sensory essence it evokes for the artist.

https://lonretreat.com.au/events/youreinvited-opening-event-of-into-the-fold-by-amywright-friday-2nd-may-4pm-7pm

Lon Retreat 25 Gill Road Point Lonsdale VIC 3225

Featuring a breathtaking original video show as well as a fully authentic six piece lineup delivering an energetic journey through the songs that made INXS a household name for the past four decades. Fronted by the incredible Dellacoma Rio, whose uncanny portrayal of Michael Hutchence has captivated audiences worldwide.

Touring across the globe, The Australian INXS Tribute Show has travelled to Dubai, India, Hawaii, Tahiti, New Zealand, Hong Kong, Vanuatu, Singapore, Japan, China, Bora Bora, New Caledonia, Taipei and South Korea. Hailing from Melbourne, Australia, this unique INXS theatre experience delivers a breathtaking ‘Australian Made’ rock show unlike anything you’ve seen before!

Tickets are on sale now!

https://geelongartscentre.org.au/whats-on/ all-events/the-australian-inxs-tribute-show/ boxoffice@geelongartscentre.org.au

1300 251 200

Geelong Arts Centre - The Story House 50 Little Malop Street Geelong VIC 3220

https://www.facebook.com/ geelongartscentre

https://www.instagram.com/ GeelongArtsCentre events@lonretreat.com.au

TASTES OF GREATER GEELONG

COME ALONG ON A CULINARY ADVENTURE AND TAKE PART IN GEELONG’S ANNUAL FOOD FESTIVAL FEATURING THE BEST IN FOOD, DRINK AND HOSPITALITY THAT THE

Tastes of Greater Geelong collectively showcases the wide variety of culinary offerings that make the region one of the best food, beverage and hospitality destinations in Australia.

Foodies can look forward to delicious events spanning the whole region.

This year, the food festival extends over four weeks, offering a plethora of flavourful events hosted by venues across Greater Geelong.

Save the date! A full Tastes program will be released this May.

https://www.geelongaustralia.com.au/ tastes/

tastes@geelongaustralia.vic.gov.au

https://www.facebook.com/ lovecentralgeelongg

https://www.instagram.com/ lovecentralgeelong/

KATE CEBERANO

Performing iconic Australian songs that have shaped Kate’s extraordinary 40 years on the road.

Flanked by two powerhouse musicians, Harts and Kathleen Halloran, this show is an invitation to feel the pulse of Australian music history through the eyes of one it’s most enduring and celebrated voices.

A set list that promises to shift seamlessly between eras and influences like a radio dial spinning through time.

Featuring Kate’s hits such as Brave, Bedroom Eyes, Pash alongside classics from The Models, Divinyls, INXS, Silverchair, I’m Talking, Renee Geyer, Sia, Split Enz, Oz Crawl, Icehouse, Paul Kelly and more.

https://geelongartscentre.org.au/whats-on/ all-events/kate-ceberano-australian-madetour-2025/

boxoffice@geelongartscentre.org.au

Costa Hall - Deakin University Geelong Waterfront 1 Gheringhap Street Geelong VIC 3220

https://www.facebook.com/ geelongartscentre

https://www.instagram.com/ GeelongArtsCentre

Why attend?

Not only will you get a rare behind-the-scenes look at reallife investigations, but you’ll also have the chance to engage directly with our experts during the Q&A session. Plus, every dollar raised from this event will go directly to regional schools, supporting vital programs like school supplies, uniforms, and excursions.

So, gather your friends, secure your tickets, and prepare for an evening of intrigue, insight, and impact. With meals and drinks available at bar prices, you can be part of a night that makes a real difference in our community!

Remember, this event is strictly for those aged 18 and over, ensuring a mature and engaging experience for all attendees. Be part of this remarkable night and contribute to a cause that truly matters. See you there!

When 21 June 2025, 06:00 PM - 10:30 PM

Where

The Sporting Globe Bar & Grill Wadawurrung Country, 175 - 177 Ryrie St, Geelong

Contact: Daryl Floyd

Email: terryfloydfoundation@outlook.com

Phone: +61 402 125 551

Associated organisation: Terry Floyd Foundation

Website: https://terryfloydfoundation.org.au/ Follow us: https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=100064596617426#

Coonawarra Wine Tasting Showcase in Geelong

WINE LOVERS OF GEELONGCOONAWARRA IS COMING!

Taste the best of Coonawarra with over a dozen producers coming direct from South Australia’s premier wine region, for one evening at the Novotel Geelong Waterfront.

Come along to meet the makers, sample over 100 wines and discover why Coonawarra’s wines are among the best in the world.

Tickets must be purchased online prior to the event and will be available on the day, if not sold out prior.

https://coonawarra.org/coonawarra-winetastingroadshow-2025/

marketing@coonawarra.org

(08) 8737 2392 Novotel Geelong 10-14 Eastern Beach Rd Geelong VIC 3220

https://www.facebook.com/coonawarra/

https://www.instagram.com/coonawarra_wine/

Bookings Now

Come and see what our talented students have been working on in class! The Bellarine Performing Arts Showcase is a joyful celebration of music, drama, and dance, featuring performances that highlight the creativity, growth, and hard work of our young performers.

A great outing for the whole family!

Children under 3 are free on lap.

Wadawurrung Country, 41 Peninsula Drive, Drysdale VIC 3222

OPINION: AFLW fixture a step in the right direction, but overlap challenges remain

Emma Moore speaks with media at Ikon Park ahead of the 2025 NAB AFLW season. Picture: AFL Photos

AS THE NAB AFLW season lengthens over the coming years, there’s no getting around the fact the overlap period between the men’s and women’s competitions will increase.

This week’s freshly released AFLW fixture will see a two-week overlap between the end of the men’s home-and-away season and the start of the women’s, and shapes as a teaser to the future shaping of the competition.

It’s also the first fixture created solely in the Emma Moore reign, with the AFL’s general manager of AFLW having started her role well after last year’s fixture was released.

During the last two weeks of the men’s season, clubs who are hosting both men’s and women’s matches in the same weekend have had those games scheduled on different days to allow for fans to attend both matches.

It’s a commonsense and pleasing step forward for the integration of the two competitions, which have often badly clashed in the past.

Floating timings, AFL overlap, more: All you need to know about the AFLW fixture

Despite a number of requests from some clubs, no double-headers to coincide with men’s games have been scheduled in those two weeks, nor have the major tier one stadiums been used (outside of GMHBA Stadium and People First Stadium, which are traditionally fixtured for AFLW).

Instead, the AFL has opted for built-in timing flexibility. It makes allowances for starting times to be tweaked if a club’s women’s and men’s sides are within one hour of overlapping.

Brisbane coach Craig Starcevich has been a vocal critic of his side’s fixturing around the finals period, given the Lions’ men’s team often go deep in September and they wish to support each other.

His suggestion of a ‘Gather Round’ in Melbourne in the last weekend of September wasn’t utilised, and the Lions’ women have once again been scheduled up north the day after the men’s Grand Final.

Gone is last year’s contentious midweek footy block, abandoned after fierce criticism from players, club staff and fans alike.

Generally speaking, the compressed period saw poorer standard games as exhaustion hit the younger sides (even Adelaide and Melbourne only managed a 16-14 game), while the rhythm of the season (or lack thereof) made life difficult for fans.

Gone too are the 5pm games on a Friday, which were scheduled to prevent a clash with men’s finals but were poorly attended given the difficulty in getting to matches on time, let alone crossing inner-city Melbourne in peak hour.

Instead, matches are loaded up on Saturday and Sundays, opting for overlapping timeslots during the afternoon rather than 11am starts.

The AFL is steadfast in its focus on community grounds, with Hawthorn once again hosting matches at Kinetic Stadium in Frankston, while Richmond will play its home games at the bigger Ikon Park, with Swinburne Centre scheduled for redevelopment.

Optically, a full Mission Whitten Oval is a much more exciting premise than the same number of fans scattered around lower tier of Marvel Stadium.

2025 AFLW fixture explained: Nod to tradition, flexible timings Sarah Black,Gemma Bastiani andAFL head of strategy and scheduling Josh Bowler discuss the key points from the 2025 NABAFLW fixture release

AlyssiaPisanoduringthematchbetweenAdelaideandMelbourne at Norwood Oval in round seven,2024.Picture: AFL Photos

The AFL’s own ground goes into concert mode in October, hosting the likes of Oasis, Metallica and Lady Gaga during the AFLW season.

It’s a difficult balancing act, given the sizeable income generated to help support things like the AFLW, but there was arguably a missed opportunity to schedule an all-W double-header at Marvel in early September. Dip your toe in the water, build it, and they will come.

While some clubs were very keen to hold men’s and women’s double-headers, others weren’t as enamoured with the idea, especially in situations where support staff work across both teams.

Holding AFL and AFLW matches at the same ground often also becomes a ticketing issue, given the disparity in prices, while the time required to reset the ground and its surrounds between matches can kill momentum for spectators.

ANALYSIS

AFLW fixture analysed: Full set complete, who your team doesn’t play

Some clubs requested a club v club focus for the overlap rounds, particularly if the VFL sides are also playing each other, leading to consistent club messaging and open up dual press opportunities, leveraging off existing men’s media coverage, but that did not eventuate.

The bye round before the men’s finals also provides a great window to maximise coverage and celebration of the AFLW, and would have been the perfect period to trial an AFLW-only double-header.

The AFL has gone for a slightly different approach, scheduling one of the two Indigenous Rounds during that window, with Richmond and Essendon to face off in Dreamtime in Darwin on the Friday night.

It’s been made clear through the Collective Bargaining Agreement that the pathway to expanding the AFLW season is through increasing attendance and TV viewership.

Mary Dunn, the 2024 AFLW Indigenous Round Honouree, and Bonnie Toogood at the coin toss ahead of the match between Essendon and Richmond at TIO Stadium in round nine, 2024. Picture: AFL Photos

Kaylee Kimber and Elaine Grigg celebrate with fans after the match between the Western Bulldogs and Sydney at Mission Whitten Oval in round five, 2024. Picture: AFL Photos

See Australia’s top equestrian talent compete at Victoria’s premier eventing competition in the stunning surrounds of Werribee Park.

Enjoy dressage on Friday and Saturday. On Sunday, follow the incredible Cross Country course through the beautiful surrounds of the Werribee Park Mansion and Victoria State Rose Garden.

On Monday, the Show Jumping determines the final placings.

Soak up the buzz of this must-do equestrian event and explore the winter Trade Village.

Entry is free on Thursday 5 and Friday 6 June.

https://m3de.com.au/

SueMcKay@equestrianvictoria.com.au

Presented by the Museum and Bob Gartland OAM, the Museum’s latest exhibition includes artefacts and images from the Bob Gartland collection, and the Polly Farmer Foundation.

The exhibition invites visitors to look back into a time when Polly football cards were traded for marbles, Polly posters were plastered on bedroom walls and newspaper clippings were pasted into scrapbooks. Visitors are also invited to share their own stories about Polly on the memory wall.

https://www.geelongsportsmuseum.vic.gov.au/ geelongsportsmuseum@kardiniapark.vic.gov.au

Located in the heart of the City, Westfield Geelong is your one-stop hub for shopping, food, fun and relaxation.

Geelong’s premier shopping destination foe fashion and beauty.

Home to some Australia’s best-known retailers including Myer, Big W, Target and Coles as well more than 160 specialty stores.

A great range of cafes, restaurants and lunch options.

A friendly Concierge team is available to help with: Westfield gift cards, personal styling sessions, hiring mobility equipment, Kiddy cars, mobile phone charging station, nad parking information and more.

There are plenty of amenities, a parent’s room on each level and an adult change facility; Changing Places.

Located two blocks back from the water front, between Malop Street and Brougham Street.

What’s Happening...

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Public holiday

opening hours

Concierge Desk - Geelong

Today

9:00am – 5:30pm

03 5215 4000

https://www.westfield.com.au/geelong/centre-services

Located at Centre Court, near the travelator to the food court

We are open as normal this long weekend:

Kings Birthday, 9 June - 10am - 5pm

Please note that some retailers may have different trading hours on the day. If you’re planning to visit specific stores, please contact them directly here to confirm their hours ahead of your visit.

Discover dining >

Visiting with kids? Discover our range of family friendly quick eats, where the kids play areas are, and much more here >

Discover the best place to park, including parking with prams and more here >

Make the most of every shopping trip with Westfield membership

We’ve been dishing out plenty of incredible member offers, events, extended free parking. Unlock your member benefits this summer by downloading the Westfield membership app.

Find out more here >

Find out what’s happening here >

Market Square was a town square located in the centre of Geelong, Victoria, Australia. Consisting of eight acres (2.9 hectares) of land, the area was reserved by Governor Sir George Gipps as a town square during the initial surveying of Geelong. The area later became a produce market, before being progressively built upon. Today the Market Square Shopping Centre occupies the site, having been opened in 1985 by the City of Geelong.

What’s Happening...

GEtTING TO KNOW GEELONG

WATERFRONT

The Geelong Waterfront is one of Australia’s most stunning waterfronts. Having started from humble beginnings when Geelong was founded as a port in 1836, the Waterfront has now attracted a series of prestigious awards.

This cosmopolitan and vibrant area is a hive of activity with restaurants and cafes, beautiful landscaped gardens, attractions and public art, all with amazing views of Corio Bay. It also provides a full events calendar, tourism, education and accommodation services:

Our historic Carousel, Poppy Kettle playground and youth activities area is great for kids of all ages. See Geelong’s famous bollards.

There are plenty of possibilities to explore and view the Waterfront: take a ride on a Harley Davidson motorcycle, ride the trackless train if you prefer a more leisurely look around, check out the view from the air in a helicopter or take a boat cruise along Geelong’s spectacular Waterfront.

A visit to Geelong is not complete if you haven’t seen our spectacular waterfront.

POPPY KETTLE PLAYGROUND

Situated on the Geelong waterfront, this park is jam-packed with awesome play elements, has beautiful sea views, has picnic facilities, and is a short walk away from cafes and other Geelong attractions. It makes for a beautiful day out for all ages, and is certainly a must-do in summer.

The interactive play equipment include a multi-coloured tubular slide that winds down the hill, a dragon emerging from the ground, a timber tower, swing, boat (atop the sand pit), bouncers, and a unique pyramid climbing net.

The playground is also well known for the interactive Poppy Kettle water fountains and miniature statues, situated amongst a rock area, which seem to be the main attraction for little ones. In fact, this feature was inspired by a children’s book written by local author, Robert Ingpen, and gives the park a magical quality. During the summer months the slide area has additional water play features.

A trip to this playground can be combined with a walk or bike ride along Geelong’s famous Bollard walk or a visit to The Carousel. Geelong’s Youth Activity Precinct is located a stones’ throw away from the playground, and features basketball ring, seating areas, open multipurpose area, and skate ramps.

This is one of the most perfectly positioned playgrounds for so many reasons.

SKATE PARK

Skate parks in Geelong have a variety of facilities available for skate boarders, bladers and BMX bike riders including quarter pipes, handrails, funboxes, vert ramps, pyramids, banked ramps, and stairsets.

We strongly advise the wearing of helmets and padding when using our Skate Parks, and enforce compulsory wearing of helmets at all skate events.

Looking to get into skating or want to know more about skating in Geelong?

Young people interested in joining in activities can call the Skate Program Worker on 03 5272 5272.

We have more skate parks per capital than any other municipality in Australia.

CUNNINGHAM PIER

The Pier Geelong offers uninterrupted bay views stretching from Rippleside to Point Wilson and the Geelong City skyline. It provides a large impressive area catering for small events of up to 800 guests seated or 1000 guests’ cocktail style.

The venue also housed City Quarter Bar a trendly lounge bar on Level 1. With loft ceilings, three decks, comfortable lounges, fireplace, gourmet pizzas and world inspired tapas, CQ is perfect for hosting engagements, birthday parties, hen’s high teas or pre or post event drinks.

Also housed within this iconic building is Wah Wah Gee, a funky Asian-inspired restaurant, offering an extensive menu leaving you feeling satisfied and content in an exciting atmosphere. Enjoy our delicious cuisine with floor to ceiling views of Geelong’s bay - you’ll feel like you’re floating on water.

A jewel on Geelong’s waterfront or a bit of a white elephant. Once a working pier known as Railway Pier, it’s now neither a pleasure pier nor used for regular shipping.

ARTS & CULTURAL PRECINCT

The area between Johnstone Park and Ryrie Street to the west of the shopping and business district of Geelong is known as the Geelong Arts Precinct. This area is also home to the Geelong Town Hall, which is the main council offices of the City of Greater Geelong.

The city is currently seeking funds for a radical overhaul of the precinct where the current facilities will receive a substantial redevelopment. There are also plans for some pretty innovative landscaping and street works which will bring the area into line with the rest of our recently rejuvenated city. This massive renovation will make the precinct one of the best arts and cultural precincts in the state. The scale of the project put the cost of the whole redevelopment in the vicinity of over 130 million dollars.

The Geelong Art Gallery is attached to the Geelong Town Hall, and it houses a magnificent and varied collection of artworks. Two paintings in particular are extremely special to our Gallery, first being the “View of Geelong” which was painted by Eugene von Guerad in 1856. This painting was bought recently by the museum from legendary English musical creator Sir Andrew Lloyd Webber. “A Bush Burial” by Fredrick McCubbin, painted in 1890 is another of the gallery’s most precious works.

Geelong Arts Centre, formerly the Geelong Performing Arts Centre, is a performing arts, functions and events venue located in Geelong, Victoria, Australia.

OLD PAPER MILLS

Geelong’s best kept secret The Fyansford Paper Mill is set on the Barwon River and overlooks the picturesque Buckley Falls. It was constructed in the 1870s and is one of the oldest paper mills in Australia.

The site is being transformed into a food, beverage, arts and cultural precinct, located within 10 minutes of Geelong’s CBD. With just under 5,000m2 of building space, the Mill is home to over 15 businesses, including a winery, café, gallery, yoga studio, homewares shop and escape room. There are also a number of small independent artists who have private studios across the site.

Visit the Fyansford Paper Mill onc of Geelong’s historic places to visits. Discover all kinds of food, arts, activities, as well as our great history, see what’s on in Geelong here.

Fyansford Paper Mill one of Geelong’s most historic places to visit.

WESTERN BEACH

In those days there was an unwritten rule designating Western Beach for men’s bathing and Eastern Beach for women. But some ‘dastardly gentlemen’ would disregard the agreement scaring respectable women away.

Today the area is rarely used for swimming, but it’s still a popular stretch of foreshore connecting Rippleside to the rest of the Waterfront.

Here you’ll find the Boat House restaurant (Geelong’s best spot for fish and chips), the Poppykettle Playground, a designated fishing area, and the marvelous Western Beach Boardwalk.

Curving out over the water the boardwalk has wellplaced seats where you can sit back and watch the sea birds duck dive for fish. In the early morning, it’s perfect for watching the sun come up over the bay.

People have been swimming, boating, fishing and playing at Western Beach Geelong since the 1840’s

RIPPLESIDE PLAYGROUND

Located on the western edge of the Waterfront, Rippleside Park Geelong is a pretty grass-covered foreshore reserve.

Popular with locals, Rippleside is less well-known to tourists who drive past en-route to more popular areas.

The park has magnificent bay views and is particularly appealing to families with young children who love the adventure playground.

The huge wooden structure has ramps, walkways, steps, and plenty of nooks and crannies to explore.

When the kids tire of the playground the reserve has wideopen spaces to run around in. Don’t forget to bring your footy!

Tucked in next to the reserve is tiny Rippleside Beach where you can bask in the sunshine or splash around in the water.

Overlooking the whole area is the bright and spacious Ripples On The Bay cafe. This stunning cafe serves excellent coffee and has huge windows with to-die-for water views.

Other amenities include picnic and barbecue facilities, toilets, and plenty of car parking spaces.

A community built wooden Adventure playground built over six days in 2001 with all the usual ramps, walkways, steps, nooks and crannies to explore.

STEAMPACKET GARDENS

A path on the northern edge connecting the gardens to the bay has seats where you can enjoy the sea breeze and watch the nearby helicopter toing and froing.

On the eastern side you’ll find the Wharfshed Cafe serving yummy meals and to the west sits the delightful historic carousel.

There are some interesting art sculptures dotted around the park. Be sure to check out the Volunteer Rifle Band bollards and The Buoys sculpture, a group of former channel buoys that have been turned into a powerful piece of artwork.

The Geelong Waterfront Makers and Growers market (Steampacket Market) is held here on the first Sunday of each month. This popular market offers local produce, beautiful art and handicrafts, and lots of tasty treats.

Located right beside the water Steampacket Gardens Geelong is a big rectangle of lush lawn that’s perfect for a relaxing picnic or a game of frisbee.

THE CAROUSEL

One of only a few in the world this beautifully restored carousel is considered by many to be the best that’s still in use today.

Housed in a modern steel and glass enclosure the pavilion has an old-world carnival atmosphere that’s enhanced by a pipe organ playing Dixieland melodies.

A ride on this enchanting carousel is a magical experience for children of all ages and abilities, with a mobility lift that assists wheelchairs onto the attraction.

Entry into the pavilion is free. Tickets to ride the Carousel are $5.00.

The Carousel Pavilion can be booked for wedding ceremonies, wedding receptions, photo shoots, and private or corporate functions.

Housing a beautifully restored Carousel, this competitively priced, exclusive all-weather venue is available for private hire seven days a week from 3:00pm.

The Carousel Geelong is a rare 1892 Armitage-Herschell hand-carved wooden carousel.

OLD GAOL

The Geelong Gaol Museum is housed in the 170-year-old Geelong Gaol, the third oldest prison in Victoria. Opening in 1853 and closing in 1991 it housed male and female prisoners.

Over its history, it has been used as an industrial school for young girls, a hospital gaol and a military detention barracks. It was the site of 6 executions.

Today it houses display illustrating not only the history of the Geelong Gaol but the history of the corrections of Victoria.

It features displays on the Hulks, Colonial Prisons, Executions and Saga Behind the Armour along with some of the prisoner stories who have spent time behind the bluestone walls.

The Geelong Gaol Museum is open on weekends, school holidays and public holidays.

A 19th century gaol which operated from 1853-1991 in the same conditions you see today.

Help the local community know you exist and what sets you a part compared to other aged care facilities, Financial Planners and other providers in the local area.

We have developed Find Aged Care Services (www.findagedcare.services) so you can promote your facilities and services to the general public. You can also place any job vacancies on our website that is available in your facilities.

SMSF growing slowly in numbers but 40% of people should not have one

RETIREMENT

By Warren Strybosch

As an accountant who looks after SMSF returns and as a financial advisor with SMSF qualifications, I often get asked if people should have a SMSF or not and what would be reasons for setting up a SMSF.

Let me get straight to the point. The only time I believe someone should set up a SMSF is if they want to purchase a commercial property for which their business is going to reside in or the commercial property is being purchased to help a family member to run their business from. Otherwise, I cannot see the value in setting up a SMSF.

I know, you get told you have more control, it is transparent, and you can invest in all types of weird and wonderful things. Yes, SMSF allow you to invest in different things e.g., Crypto and/or derivatives, but for most people who do this, they tend to lose their money when investing in these more speculative investments. When it comes to control and transparency, this is now lesser of an issue and one should not be encouraged to set up a SMSF based on these factors any longer.

If we look at the March 2025 quarterly statistical report on the self-managed super fund (SMSF) sector that the ATO produces it highlights the following;

• There are 646,168 SMSFs.

• There are 1,197,293 members of SMSFs.

• The total estimated assets of SMSFs are $1.01 trillion.

• The top asset types held by SMSFs (by value) are:

- listed shares (26% of total estimated SMSF assets) - cash and term deposits (16%).

• 53% of SMSF members are male and 47% are female.

• 85% of SMSF members are 45 years or older.

What is interesting to note is that approximately 40% of Trustees have investments sitting in either listed shares or cash.

Given that Industry funds now offer access to listed shares and the cash account can be paying higher than term deposit rates, one has to question the viability and costs of establishing and/or continuing with a SMSF.

Also, age is something to consider as well. If we look at the age of members, we can see that over 50% of trustees are over the age of 60 (refer Table 1: Member demographics – age and gender).

Table 1: Member demographics – age and gender

This table contains the age distribution of individuals who were members of SMSFs as at the end of June 2024.

The data is an estimate based on Australian Business Register (ABR) data.

The data was extracted on 17 September 2024 and is updated annually.

Table 6: Members, by gender and age range

(Source: https://data.gov.au/)

We are now seeing more people over the age of 70 starting to wind down their SMSF. In part, this is because one of the partners would not want to operate the SMSF when their partner passes away, and due to the increasing costs, compliance, and legal burdens being placed on trustees.

Table 2: Total asset range

These tables show:

• the proportion of funds by their size (based on asset range)

• the proportion of total assets that are held by SMSFs of different sizes (based on their asset range).

These figures are estimates based on SMSF annual return data for the 2019 to 2023 financial years.

The data was extracted on 12 August 2024 and is updated annually.

Table 8.1: Members, by gender and age range

Table 8.2: Proportion of assets, by asset range of fund

(Source: https://data.gov.au/)

Of the roughly $620,000 SMSF that are establish, over 65% have assets held in the SMSF worth more than $1,000,000 and approximately 30% of SMSF have assets over $$5,000,000.

With the introduction of Div 296, trustees are going to have to consider the value of holding assets in a SMSF given anything over $3,000,000 is likely to be taxed at 30% (Note: Div 296 has not yet legislated but is very likely to come into play).

With the increasing costs of running a SMSF and the extra legislative and compliance requirements associating with managing a SMSF, trustees should consider whether they should continue to operate one or close them down.

If you are not sure whether to retain or keep your SMSF open, consider speaking to Warren at Find Accountant for a free noobligation free discussion.

Special Tax Return Offer

$99 Returns - PAYG Only

We have made it cheaper and easier for you to get your returns completed & you can do it all from the comfort of your own home.

Here are the steps involved:

1. Email to returns@findaccountant.com.au requesting your PAYG return to be completed. Provide us with your full name, D.O.B and address

2. A Tax engagement letter will be emailed to you for signing via your mobile (no printing or scanning required).

3. You will be then sent a tax checklist to complete online. Takes less than 5 minutes.

4. We will then require you to upload your documents to our secure portal.

5. Once we have received all your documentation, we will complete the return.

6. We will email you the completed return with our invoices. Once you sign the return and pay the invoice we will lodge the return on your behalf.

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to editor@findgeelong.com.au. If

If you have any questions, contact the editor on 1300 88 38 30 or Email warren@findnetwork.com.au

Go to www.findgeelong.com.au/graphic-design to upload your details and we will create this for you. Go to www.findgeelong.com.au/graphic-design to upload your details and we will create this for you.

If you have any questions, contact the editor on 1300 88 38 30 or Email warren@findnetwork.com.au

TRADIES - FREE ADVERTISING

Email your artwork to editor@findgeelong.com.au. If you wish us to create your ad, we will do this for a minimal cost.

Go to www.findgeelong.com.au/graphic-design to upload your details and we will create this for you.

The Dimensions of the Ads are:

If you have any questions, contact the editor on 1300 88 38 30 or Email warren@findnetwork.com.au

TRADIES - FREE ADVERTISING

Email your artwork to editor@findgeelong.com.au. If you wish us to create your ad, we will do this for a minimal cost.

Go to www.findgeelong.com.au/graphic-design to upload your details and we will create this for you.

The Dimensions of the Ads are:

If you have any questions, contact the editor on 1300 88 38 30 or Email warren@findnetwork.com.au

TRADIES - FREE ADVERTISING

Email your artwork to editor@findgeelong.com.au. If you wish us to create your ad, we will do this for a minimal cost.

details and we will create this for you.

The Dimensions of the Ads are:

If you have any questions, contact the editor on 1300 88 38 30 or

Email your artwork to editor@findgeelong.com.au. If you wish us to create your ad, we will do this for a minimal cost.

TRADIES - FREE ADVERTISING TRADIES - FREE ADVERTISING

Email your artwork to editor@findgeelong.com.au. If you wish us to create your ad, we will do this for a minimal cost.

Creative Design

TRADIES - FREE ADVERTISING

Email your artwork to editor@findgeelong.com.au. If you wish us to create your ad, we will do this for a minimal cost.

x 98 mm - 1/8 Small Size

x 96 mm - 1/4 Page Portrait

If you have any questions, contact the editor on 1300 88 38 30 or Email warren@findnetwork.com.au

TRADIES - FREE ADVERTISING

Email your artwork to editor@findgeelong.com.au. If you wish us to create your ad, we will do this for a minimal cost.

Go to www.findgeelong.com.au/graphic-design to upload your details and we will create this for you. Go to www.findgeelong.com.au/graphic-design to upload your details and we will create this for you.

x 98 mm - 1/8 Small Size

x 96 mm - 1/4 Page Portrait

If you have any questions, contact the editor on 1300 88 38 30 or Email warren@findnetwork.com.au

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GEELONG