2021 Community Update Summer edition

C O M MU N I T Y UPDATE SUMMER 2021

WELCOME TO COMMUNITY UPDATE This publication is for and about the residents of Geelong and focuses on the caring and creative individuals and groups throughout the region who contribute to making Geelong such a vibrant and thriving community.

MAYOR’S MESSAGE The end of the year is generally a time for reflection for a lot of people.

Another year has been disrupted by the pandemic and for some community members it’s been a tough 12 months. During this time though, I’ve seen our community display immense strength and compassion to help others, and lemons turned into lemonade.

I’ve noticed personal gains in myself and others, such as increased resilience and a stronger appreciation for what’s really important. This includes connecting with nature and discovering a new hobby but, most of all, family and friends top the list.

Christmas is a time to pull those people close to us to somewhat make up for all those missed moments. With that in mind, we have worked to make the festive season extra special this year with an expanded program of free activities.

Our beloved Floating Christmas Tree at the Waterfront is of course the centrepiece, with sound and light shows happening each night. It’s a winner for all ages and well worth a visit while out and about with loved ones in Central Geelong.

There are also the City Hall projections, the School Christmas Trees, a Christmas Trail across 22 locations and a Best Selfie Competition. For more information on the many opportunities to make new family memories, visit geelongaustralia.com.au/christmas

Greater Geelong is blessed to have 133 kilometres of coastline, 90-square kilometres of open space and 334 parks, so you really can get away from the crowds and embrace the space.

It’s just another reason why I wouldn’t live anywhere else.

Cr Stephanie Asher Mayor, City of Greater Geelong

Summer is also a chance to reconnect with each other while discovering the lesser known natural gems around our region. You can find the perfect spot to picnic, ride, walk, swim and rock-pool ramble at geelongaustralia.com.au/ embracethespace

We Acknowledge the Wadawurrung People as the Traditional Owners of the Land, Waterways and Skies.

We pay our respects to their Elders, past and present. We Acknowledge all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who are part of our Greater Geelong community today.

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PG 14: A TREE-MENDOUS CHRISTMAS

PG 16: STEP BACK IN TIME AND ENJOY THE WONDER OF THE CAROUSEL

IN THIS ISSUE OF COMMUNITY UPDATE

PG 15: MOTHER VERSUS DAUGHTER

YOUR COUNCILLORS For more information, visit geelongaustralia.com.au/ councillors

CR STEPHANIE ASHER Mayor, Bellarine Ward 0417 033 856 sasher@geelongcity.vic.gov.au

CR TRENT SULLIVAN Deputy Mayor, Bellarine Ward 0434 307 050 tsullivan@geelongcity.vic.gov.au

CR ANTHONY AITKEN Windermere Ward 0434 307 044 aaitken@geelongcity.vic.gov.au

CR KYLIE GRZYBEK Windermere Ward 0434 307 043 kgrzybek@geelongcity.vic.gov.au

CR BRUCE HARWOOD Kardinia Ward 0434 307 042 bharwood@geelongcity.vic.gov.au

CR EDDY KONTELJ Brownbill Ward 0455 532 006 ekontelj@geelongcity.vic.gov.au

CR SARAH MANSFIELD Brownbill Ward 0436 343 642 smansfield@geelongcity.vic.gov.au

CR JIM MASON AM Bellarine Ward 0434 307 048 jmason@geelongcity.vic.gov.au

CR BELINDA MOLONEY Kardinia Ward 0435 219 198 bmoloney@geelongcity.vic.gov.au

CR PETER MURRIHY Brownbill Ward 0434 307 045 pmurrihy@geelongcity.vic.gov.au

CR RON NELSON Kardinia Ward 0429 531 875 rnelson@geelongcity.vic.gov.au

COMMUNITY UPDATE SUMMER 2021 | 3

Pictured: Rendine Constructions Foreman, Sam Rickards, with Construction Manager, Charles Drummond

IMPROVING HUME RESERVE Hume Reserve in Bell Park, home to the Corio Soccer Club, is set to undergo a $3.25 million redevelopment. Moolap-based business, Rendine Constructions, has been awarded the contract to design and construct a new modular pavilion.

OUR LOCAL COMMUNITY NEWS

The original change rooms have been demolished to make way for two sets of gender-neutral change rooms and amenities, and realignment of stormwater piping.

A NEW DOG PARK FOR LARA

Construction of the new pavilion is progressing off-site and will include referee change rooms, a first aid room, social space, kitchen, meeting room and storage place.

The project is funded by the City ($3 million) and the Victorian Government ($250,000) and is due for completion by Easter 2022.

OUR YOUTH COUNCIL’S GREAT YEAR Thank you to the wonderful young leaders who have completed their term on Youth Council. They have given a voice to young people in the community and acted as an official advisory committee to Council.

Some highlights of the 2021 Youth Council include their involvement with the What’s your why? vaccine campaign, contribution to the City’s social equity workshop, participation in Monash University’s YourGround safety mapping survey and the RMIT Youth employment and education study.

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NEED JOB HELP? Are you looking to re-enter the workforce, upskill or change your career?

Our Jobs Victoria Advocates can help by connecting you with learning opportunities, apprenticeship programs, local employment opportunities and resume and interview preparation support.

Supported by the Victorian Government, the service is free and designed to help job seekers get back to work. geelongaustralia.com.au /jobsadvocates jobsadvocates@geelongcity.vic.gov.au 5272 5272

Lara dog owners are looking forward to a new fenced dog park opening at Hovells Creek Reserve in Rennie Street later this month.

The park is 4600 square metres and features a training and obstacle area, as well as a separate area for small dogs. In response to community feedback about the initial concept design, we are also building an off-road car park to service the park.

For more information about other local places to exercise your dog, visit geelongaustralia.com.au/pets

‘TIS THE SEASON TO CELEBRATE LOCAL

Pictured: Performers on Pakington Street as part of the It’s Our Backyard initiative

As we emerge from lockdown and welcome a summer with greater freedoms, we’re encouraging locals to celebrate local. From shopping for last-minute Christmas gifts, to showing visiting loved ones around town, here’s a few ideas to help you get local this festive season.

TAKE A TOUR Be a tour guide for visiting family and friends and show them why Geelong and The Bellarine were worth the wait. Our region has so many great experiences on offer, so book in some time together to eat, drink and see the sights.

If you’re stuck for ideas, drop by visitgeelongbellarine.com.au for a great list of things to do in the region.

LET US ENTERTAIN YOU Head out with a friend and enjoy some of the free entertainment as part of the It’s Our Backyard initiative. Delivered with funding support from the Victorian Government, there are 23 different performers to see throughout the region during December.

Find further information at geelongaustralia.com.au/ itsourbackyard

LOCALLY WRAPPED Haven’t crossed everyone off on your Christmas list? Don’t take the risk with postage delays. Head to your local gift store, gallery or artist to pick up a unique treat that your special someone will love. Not only will it make them happy, but you’ll also be putting a smile on the face of a local small business owner.

Or take a look at CODE Souvenir Geelong for a catalogue of beautiful gifts and keepsakes designed exclusively in Geelong, and that celebrate our designation as Australia’s only UNESCO City of Design.

PLATE UP If you’re planning a feast for your Christmas or New Year celebrations, track down the many local food purveyors, butchers, bakeries and grocers who can help you tick off your grocery list. You may even want to save some time and pick up something pre-prepared, and undoubtedly delicious, at a café or restaurant.

For those that can, supporting businesses in our backyard helps local people, industries and the region’s economy. Every purchase, big or small, makes a difference, so let’s think, shop, support and celebrate local first.

Visit geelongcityofdesign.com.au/ code-souvenir-geelong COMMUNITY UPDATE SUMMER 2021 | 5

Pictured: Volunteer, Cheryl, watches on as surfer, AJ, rides in on a wave

Pictured: Celebrating another successful ride with volunteers at the 2016 event

ALL ABILITIES SURFING FINALLY BACK FOR SUMMER

Pictured: National Secretary, Phil Christie (left), talking to volunteer, Ash

After a COVID-enforced hiatus over the last two summers, the Ocean Grove branch of the Disabled Surfers Association of Australia is now planning events in February and March 2022. We caught up with National Secretary, Phil Christie, to find out more about this important local program.

The Disabled Surfers Association of Australia was established in 1986 by surfer, Gary Blaschke, after a motorbike accident prevented him from surfing unaided. While he could draw on help from friends to get back into the water, he realised that many others living with disabilities might not have the same opportunities. Thirtyfive years later, the association now operates in locations all over Australia and New Zealand.

Phil Christie attended his first Disabled Surfing Association event in Ocean Grove on Black Saturday in 2009.

He’d driven down from Benalla to see whether the activity would be suitable for his son Ryan, who has cerebral palsy. Phil was so impressed with what he saw, he was immediately hooked and has been involved ever since.

Each Ocean Grove event day relies on the help of around 250 volunteers who support roughly 120 people to surf. Catering for anybody who needs

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support to surf, the group has helped many people who are living with a range of disabilities.

“The emphasis is on safety,” said Phil, explaining that they surf in the broken water close to shore and not from out behind the break. “We can have up to 25 people assisting one surfer at times – it’s all hands-on deck.”

While the event is open to surfers of all ages, with both children and seniors getting involved, Phil told us volunteering opportunities are also very inclusive.

“You don’t have to be a surfer or even go in the water. There is plenty to do off the water.”

Selene, a young woman with quadriplegia who relies on a ventilator to breathe, participated in a short documentary made by Nathan Fox for his VCE studies in 2019. When asked what it feels like to ride a wave into shore, she replied:

‘FREEDOM. IT’S BEYOND DESCRIPTION. I JUST LOSE MYSELF.’ This is a description that resonates with Phil as well. “There is nothing like surfing a wave, whatever stage you’re at, it’s a feeling of freedom.”

When asked about his motivation for being involved, Phil said: “It creates smiles on the surfers’ faces, on the people watching them, and happy tears for mum and dad on the beach.

And that’s why we all do it.”

To get involved or make a donation, follow the Disabled Surfers Association Ocean Grove on Facebook and Instagram.

BECOMING AN INCLUSIVE AND ACCESSIBLE REGION We want our region to feel welcoming and accessible to everyone.

Pictured: Brodie Shaw, MY STORY Project participant

To help us do this, we work closely with the members of our Access and Inclusion Advisory Committee, who represent the interests of people in the municipality with a lived experience of disability and advise us on universal access and inclusion for all.

Being accessible means making sure all new and existing community spaces can be enjoyed by everyone. To address this, we plan for accessibility needs in new projects, upgrade existing buildings and infrastructure, such as footpaths, and keep adding to the 12 Changing Places facilities we’ve already built.

To promote inclusion in 2021, we supported programs including: • Inclusion Week – we worked with local organisations to celebrate inclusive events in the lead up to International Day of People with Disability (3 December).

Pictured: (from left) Cr Anthony Aitken, Noah Callan (Get Skilled Access Associate), Ben Pettingill (Sport4All Project Coordinator at Get Skilled Access) and Mayor Stephanie Asher

• The MY STORY Project – over 320 people with lived experience of disability or mental health challenges participated in this event to ‘tell their own story in their own way’ through words, visuals and music.

• Awards for People with Disability – we received 20 nominations for the awards this year, which recognise the outstanding contributions of local people living with disability.

• Sport4All Program – we became one of six Victorian local governments to sign up for this national pilot program, funded by the Australian Government and delivered by Get Skilled Access. The program will support people with disability to participate in school and grassroots sport in ways that suit them best.

To find out more about these programs and more, visit geelongaustralia.com.au/accessibility

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A HUB OF ACTIVITY IN THE NORTH Over its 11 years of operating, The fOrT Youth Centre in Norlane has provided young people aged between 12 and 25 years with a space to connect. As well as offering quiet corners to relax, young people can participate in a range of free activities, including table tennis, art classes and music lessons.

Welcoming around 30 young people on an average day, The fOrT is a regional City-owned facility that provides free programs, freshly cooked meals and a safe space for young people to relax and socialise with others from the northern suburbs.

As well as promoting community connectedness, the centre gives young people a chance to develop skills and interests, and access alternative pathways to education and employment. It is also an important meeting place for several youth committees including the Multicultural Youth Leadership Committee, which actively plans and delivers cultural events across the municipality.

For 19-year-old, Liz Brilli, the centre is a great place because she can hang out, socialise and take part in the many activities on offer, such as drop-ins each weekday, art classes and the weekly pool comp.

“There are so many activities to do, lots of people to talk to and hang out with,” Liz said.

“Everyone gets along together and, if we didn’t have The fOrT, we would miss the interaction and activities.”

Also a fan of the pool competition, Liz’s older brother, Mat, enjoys the welcoming environment The fOrT creates. “[I like] being able to meet different people and socialising, especially after the pandemic, The fOrT has given young people a place to socialise somewhere that they feel safe,” Mat said.

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A key feature that makes The fOrT stand out is its emphasis on involving young people in shaping the space and program.

Young people are employed to work alongside youth workers at the centre and those that visit are also encouraged to lead the development of activities they’d like to take part in, such as the Activate Gym Program, Girls Only Drawn Together, Game On Evolved and the SKAART Community Festival. “[The fOrT is] important because some young people don’t have a place to go and they can’t do activities because they don’t have the money,” Liz said.

“THEY WANT SOMEWHERE SAFE AND FUN TO HANG OUT WITH THEIR FRIENDS, HAVE YUMMY MEALS AND IT’S A CENTRE JUST FOR YOUNG PEOPLE. IT’S OURS.” Establishing connections, whether that be with other young people, community groups or local organisations, is also an important and valuable outcome of the centre’s programs. In 2018, a futsal program created for young women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds was established between The fOrT and Leisuretime Sports Precinct to help young women learn the fundamentals of the game and support them to join local club soccer. This program, which ultimately aims to create stronger

and more diverse sporting clubs, is set to resume in 2022.

The fOrT is not alone in the work it does with communities in the northern suburbs, as there are many initiatives driven by the community and us, including: the collaborative Regional Industry Sector Employment program connecting job seekers with construction industry employment opportunities; Norlane Community Initiatives’ social enterprise, The Aviary Cafe; and the Lotus Kitchen at Cloverdale Community Centre, providing connection and affordable meals to the community.

A recent report by Deakin University’s HOME Research Hub, in partnership with LCJ Research, highlighted the importance of programs like these. It also aimed to strengthen the City’s coordination, planning and leadership of combined social and economic development and to increase social equity and prosperity for communities in Corio, Norlane and Whittington.

The fOrT is located at the corner of Princes Highway and St Georges Road in Norlane.

For more information, visit geelongaustralia.com.au/youth or find The fOrT on Facebook.

Scan the QR code to read Deakin’s Vital Communities Strategies for Alleviating Locational Disadvantage in Geelong report.

Pictured: Liz and Mat Brilli

Pictured: Khyl Cornwill

“THERE ARE SO MANY ACTIVITIES TO DO, LOTS OF PEOPLE TO TALK TO AND HANG OUT WITH.” Pictured: Liz Brilli Pictured: Liz and Mat Brilli

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Pictured: Lowell Hunter and his sons

“I’M IN A POSITION TO BE ABLE TO GIVE BACK AND PROVIDE SIMILAR OPPORTUNITIES FOR COMMUNITY – IN WAY OF DELIVERING CULTURAL PROGRAMS LIKE THIS.”

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STRENGTHENING CULTURE AND CONNECTION Earlier this year, a number of First Nations families came together on Wadawurrung Country to be guided by Gunditjmara, Keeray Woorroong women, Lisa Couzens and her daughter Kelsey Love, to learn about the sacred Aboriginal practice of making a possum skin cloak.

Possum skin cloak story is a process that’s shared by knowledge holders in the community and can be a process of healing, connection and of storytelling for their family and journey.

The Possum Cloak Project was an initiative by Nyul Nyul man and director of Wan-Yaari Aboriginal Consultancy Services, Lowell Hunter, who had experienced firsthand the importance of a program that strengthened connections to culture and identity.

“For me growing up in community I had a lot of opportunities to connect to culture through various programs, and that was when I was growing up down on Gunditjmara Country, down in Warrnambool. I knew how important they were as a young fella and now, a bit older, knowing the impact they had on me and my family,” Lowell said.

“It’s really important work and allowed me to connect to culture and strengthen my identity and learn about cultural values.

Fast-forward 20-odd years and now I’m in a position to be able to give back and provide similar opportunities for community – in way of delivering cultural programs like this.”

The program continues on from Wan-Yaari’s cultural strengthening program with young Aboriginal men, which is one of many services provided by the

consultancy. “That program was around cultural strengthening through dance. Often what would occur is the families would come and drop the boys off, but there were still other siblings and family members missing out on the chance to learn about culture.”

the program off the ground.

He worked with the Grovedale Neighbourhood House on the application and is hoping it will be the start of many more programs for Aboriginal communities that are supported by the City.

The Possum Cloak Project ran over 10 weeks. At the end of the project, the families involved went home with a possum skin cloak and the knowledge of this significant cultural practice.

Earlier this year, we worked with the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation to establish the inaugural First Nations Cultural Heritage Grants for projects that preserve, protect and renew Aboriginal cultural heritage.

A series of photographs were also taken to document the experience of the families and these are now on display as banners and framed photos at the Grovedale Community Centre, which was the host venue for the program.

“When I first attended the facility [in Grovedale], I think it was only a couple of years old and the newly renovated space looked like it had a lot of potential. A community hub is there for everyone to use but that gap that was missing was that there was nothing there to encourage the local Aboriginal community to go and be involved in the hub,” Lowell said.

These grants are another part of our organisation’s ongoing journey toward reconciliation, which is being guided by our Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan. Another key change we’ve made is to include Wadawurrung Country in our print and digital addresses, thus acknowledging the Wadawurrung People as the Traditional Owners of the Land, Waterways and Skies.

Scan the QR code to read our Reconciliation Action Plan.

Now with the photos on display, First Nations People and families will be able to see themselves, or someone they know, represented at the community facility.

Lowell credits one of our Healthy and Connected Communities Grants for helping him to get

For more information about Wan-Yaari Aboriginal Consultancy Services, visit wanyaari.com.au COMMUNITY UPDATE SUMMER 2021 | 11

GEARING UP FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON Pictured: Deputy Mayor Trent Sullivan, Councillor Kylie Grzybek and Councillor Eddy Kontelj encouraging everyone to shop local (masks mandated outdoors at time of photo)

Let’s be frank – it’s been a tough year! We’ve endured the global pandemic, an earthquake and more. COVID-19 restrictions have kept us safe, but they have also kept us apart.

So, whatever your cultural background or faith, let’s all make this Christmas a period of reunion, connection and nurturing our important relationships. Many of us will welcome visits from family and friends and we hope you get out and enjoy all of Geelong’s Christmas cheer with them.

For those of you who can afford to give, we encourage you to contribute to the Geelong Giving Tree Appeal and support those in greatest need. Last year, community support brought joy to more than 2000 families. To donate, visit mycause.com.au/events/ geelonggivingtreeappeal While you’re spreading joy, remember to support local by purchasing your Christmas gifts and

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food for your Christmas lunch from local shops. Your support will mean a lot to our local small business owners.

Finally, we know that Christmas isn’t always a happy time. Stresses and strains can come to the surface and arguments, family violence, drug and alcohol issues, depression and anxiety can all be a very real part of Christmas for many.

If you’re finding the Christmas period overwhelming, don’t be afraid to ask for help from one of the many services that are available.

Lifeline: 13 11 14 Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800 Safe Steps Family Violence Response Centre: 1800 015 188

Find out more about the Christmas activities and attractions happening in your local area by visiting geelongaustralia.com.au/christmas

THE GIFT OF INCLUSION The Geelong Community Christmas Day Lunch has been operating out of Christ Church Geelong for 21 years.

Each year, Dr Bernard Shiu and a team of dedicated volunteers organise the lunch for community members who are experiencing homelessness or extreme financial hardship and have nowhere to go on Christmas Day. Up to 180 guests sit down each year to celebrate Christmas lunch with volunteers and each other. While COVID-19 restrictions mean guests must be given food packs to take away this year, Dr Shiu hopes that everyone will be able to sit down together again in 2022.

The event is supported by local hospitality businesses that donate food, as well as local entertainers who have added fun over the years.

There has also been occasional visits from Cats players, councillors and other prominent locals.

Dr Shiu describes the traditional gathering as one of celebrating together:

“VOLUNTEERS SERVE FOOD TO OUR GUESTS AND THEN WE JOIN THEM FOR LUNCH, LISTEN TO THEIR STORIES, SING CAROLS AND PRESENT GIFTS, WHICH HAVE BEEN DONATED.” Dr Shiu told us about a very special volunteer he met two years ago.

“Five years ago, he was homeless and came to the event as a lunch guest. He met someone at lunch who offered him a job and, five years later, he is employed, has a family and is keen to give back to others.”

Dr Shiu also shared a story about a mother who he said looks forward to the event all year as it is the only day that her daughter receives a present.

When urged to take more presents, she refused as she didn’t want to deprive others.

Keep up-to-date with this important annual event at facebook.com/ GeelongCommunityChristmas DayLunch

Pictured: (from left) Vivien Allen, Dominic Raimondo, Dr Bernard Shiu and David Potter preparing for the Geelong Community Christmas Day Lunch

A VERY NEIGHBOURLY INITIATIVE Rosewall, Norlane and Cloverdale neighbourhood houses have invited their local community to nominate Corio and Norlane residents who deserve a gesture of kindness, moral support or gratitude.

Those nominated will receive a care pack filled with goodies made inhouse during classes – items such as heat packs, seedlings and cookies.

Additional items are being sourced where possible from local suppliers, providing a boost to local business.

Each neighbourhood house will take a unique approach to developing the care packs but, by collaborating and supporting each other, they are sending a strong message of inclusion and support this festive season.

The ‘pay-it-forward’ Community Care Packs will promote community connection and goodwill within the 3214 neighbourhood for the nominators, the recipients and those involved in making the initiative happen.

The three neighbourhood houses received $4000 each in funding as part of our Christmas in the Community Grants allocation.

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A TREE-MENDOUS CHRISTMAS Pictured: Chris Anderson, Head of Service Delivery at GeelongPort, overseeing the Christmas Tree assembly

This year marks the eighth season that the iconic Floating Christmas Tree has illuminated Corio Bay as part of the region’s program of free Christmas activities and entertainment.

While the tree is the highlight of our Christmas in Geelong program for many, it is only one part of a bigger program that attracted over 261,000 people in 2020, generating more than $20 million in economic output for the region.

This year, you can either visit the tree in-person, or tune-in to our live feed from the comfort of your home. The spectacular sound and light show is on nightly until 7 January at the Waterfront between 8.30pm and midnight. Each show runs for six minutes and repeats every 15 minutes.

Our Christmas in Geelong program wouldn’t be possible without our Floating Christmas Tree sponsor, GeelongPort. Christmas comes early 14 | geelongaustralia.com.au

for those working at GeelongPort with assembly of the 10-tonne, 25-metre Floating Christmas Tree beginning as early as October.

According to Chris Anderson, Head of Service Delivery at GeelongPort, it’s an annual event that everyone looks forward to:

“GEELONGPORT IS THRILLED TO AGAIN PARTNER WITH THE CITY IN BRINGING CHRISTMAS CHEER TO THE STUNNING WATERFRONT – IT’S SUCH A GREAT SPECTACLE FOR THE ENTIRE COMMUNITY.”

Our thanks goes to the team at GeelongPort for providing the safe storage, Hanlon Industries for the assembly and Total Events, who produce the sound and light show every year.

For more information about the Floating Christmas Tree and other Christmas program highlights, visit geelongaustralia.com.au/christmas Did you know?

The star is four-metres wide and gently rotates with the wind direction.

MOTHER VERSUS DAUGHTER – OUR 2022 CALENDAR CONTENDERS Each year, we receive hundreds of entries from local photographers hoping their special snapshot of Greater Geelong will be chosen for our much-loved calendar.

This year, mother and daughter duo, Tash and Danka Dear, were surprised to find they’d both been shortlisted for the cover.

We received over 1300 entries for the 2022 calendar competition, including the photos taken by Tash and Danka. While Tash’s photo of the Carousel at the Waterfront ended up being selected for the cover, Danka’s image of the Floating Christmas Tree was still the top choice for December.

way light enhances the landscape, colours, reflections and anything else that catches my eye,” Danka said.

When asked how they felt about their photos competing, Tash responded, “It was such a surprise to find out we were going headto-head; I wasn’t sure how to feel about it at first. It’s been a fun experience though, and certainly making it even more memorable than it already was.”

While the pandemic stopped the pair from meeting up regularly to take photos last year, they continued to enjoy each other’s photography online. “It’s very rare for one of us to go without the other. That’s the wonderful thing about sharing the same passion – we’re able to bond over it and able to have a fun time regardless,” Tash said.

Danka is also passionate about their shared pastime and says it has given her strength as she’s faced health challenges over the years.

“Photography has really made me appreciate the good in life, the beauty and the wonder that surrounds us, and I want to capture as much of it as I can,” she said.

Follow Danka and Tash’s work: Facebook – dankadearphotography and tashdearphotography Instagram – dankadear and tashdearphotography Did you know?

Over 130,000 copies of the Geelong Calendar are distributed free to residents of the Greater Geelong region each December. You can find out more about the calendar at geelongaustralia.com.au/calendar

Always a creative person, Danka is a self-taught photographer who has been experimenting with the medium for many years. This was of great use when her daughter, Tash, was born. “I had a film camera I was using, and would eagerly try to capture all those precious moments of baby smiles, giggles, crawling, first steps and all the wonderful things babies do,” Danka said.

An artisan in her own right, Tash recalls joining her mother on photo shoots and being creative from a young age. “I learnt how to use Photoshop when I was nine, so graphic design has always been something I’ve loved, as well as drawing and painting (both traditional and digital), and playing guitar, to name a few other hobbies.”

When we quizzed Tash and Danka about their favourite type of photography, both agreed on landscapes. “I’m always noticing the

Pictured: (from left) Danka Dear with her daughter, Tash Dear

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STEP BACK IN TIME AND ENJOY THE WONDER OF THE CAROUSEL Enjoying a prime position on the Geelong Waterfront, beside Cunningham Pier, the Carousel offers breathtaking views over Corio Bay. The Carousel is almost 130 years old and has been lovingly restored, over thousands of hours, to become a city landmark.

The Carousel was manufactured around 1892 by the New York company, Armitage-Herschell.

Music plays from a replica Gavioli & Co. band organ, which typically accompanied portable carousels of the era. Twenty-four of the 36 horses are original and are believed to be hand-carved by the acclaimed American master carver, Charles W Dare.

According to local historian and tour guide, Colin Mockett, the Carousel was bought by an unknown Australian showrunner in the early 1900s and shipped to Melbourne to travel around Victoria on the show circuit, which ran throughout spring and summer.

“The Carousel was packed up onto a horse-drawn tray and would be pulled from show to show: from the Melbourne show to Geelong, and then Bendigo and so on,” Colin said.

After World War I, as travelling shows fell out of favour, the Carousel was moved to the Mordialloc Pier, where it operated until the 1930s. It was discovered many years later stored away in a barn on a Bendigo farm and was eventually purchased in 1996 by the Steampacket Place Development Board, a joint group formed by the Victorian Government and the City of Greater Geelong.

The restoration took three years and sought the expertise of specialist historians, craftspeople and artists from around Australia and North America. They 16 | geelongaustralia.com.au

undertook extensive research before the commencement of restoration to ensure the result was as authentic as possible.

The original horses took around 300 hours each to restore, with the team scraping back around 40 layers of paint to reveal the original colours, which have been faithfully reproduced.

The Carousel is one of only 200 still in operation globally and is housed in a glass pavilion designed by local architecture firm, McGlashen Everist. The venue is open 364 days of the year, COVID restrictions permitting, and can host events and private functions including weddings, birthday parties and anniversaries.

Local couple, Bernadette Innes and Bart Turley, got engaged at The Carousel on New Year’s Eve 2019. The location holds such special memories they chose it as their wedding venue and were married in early November this year.

Bart was “proudly born and bred” in Geelong, and he explains that finding somewhere that was “very Geelong” was key when deciding where to propose to his formerly Melbourne-based partner.

“Geelong is such a great place; everything is accessible, there are so many great opportunities and a great lifestyle here. The Carousel says Geelong to me,” Bart said.

Everyone at the Carousel was cheering and clapping and crying and saying congratulations.

Geelong is Bart’s hometown and my new home, and the people of Geelong made our engagement so special.”

The couple, who both work for Barwon Health, said they booked the venue as soon as they found out it hosted wedding ceremonies.

“The Carousel staff were fantastic to deal with – they made everything so easy,” Bernadette said.

Bart’s father was one of 17 children who grew up in a house in Swanston Street, South Geelong. The family have been Geelong Cats members for generations and, in a nod to his heritage, the couple’s wedding reception was held in the Captains Room at GMHBA Stadium.

The Carousel’s summer hours (October to March) are 10.30am–5pm on weekdays, and 10.30am–6pm on weekends. The Carousel is located at 1 Eastern Beach Road, Geelong Waterfront.

For more information, visit geelongaustralia.com.au/carousel

Scan the QR code to read more about the Carousel’s history.

Bernadette described the proposal as: “Absolutely beautiful, it was like a movie.

Pictured:

Pictured: Bernadette Innes and Bart Turley enjoying the Carousel

“GEELONG IS SUCH A GREAT PLACE; EVERYTHING IS ACCESSIBLE, THERE ARE SO MANY GREAT OPPORTUNITIES AND A GREAT LIFESTYLE HERE. THE CAROUSEL SAYS GEELONG TO ME.” Picture credit: Herschell Carousel Factory Museum Pictured: Children enjoying a ride on the Carousel

COMMUNITY UPDATE SUMMER 2021 | 17

CREATING A SMOOTH PROCESS FOR LOCAL BUSINESSES

Pictured: City officer, Matt Stojanovic (masks mandated outdoors at time of photo)

While navigating the permits required to start or expand can be overwhelming, our free Business Concierge Service is here to help.

Matt Stojanovic, who works within the service to help business owners navigate the regulations that guide the set-up of businesses and the permits required, describes the role as interesting and rewarding as it helps business owners get the resources to develop their ideas into reality.

“So many individuals in our Greater Geelong community have strong business ideas,” Matt said. “The role also allows me to work with various City departments and appreciate the varied services we provide to our community.”

As for the types of businesses Matt works with, everyone from hairdressers and café owners through to sole traders have made use of our free service.

18 | geelongaustralia.com.au

MATT’S TOP TIPS FOR STARTING A NEW BUSINESS 1. Build your business knowledge and skills using free online resources to develop the strongest possible business idea and plan. For regular updates on local business support, resources, events and news, sign up for our eNewsletter at geelongaustralia/business 2. Take your time to understand all the costs involved in starting a business and determining the selling price of your product or service.

An important aspect that is often overlooked is valuing your time.

3. Research your target market and competitors to understand who will buy your product or service. Ask yourself: who are the competitors in your market? What do they offer?

Why is your product or service different to theirs?

4. Develop a marketing plan to ensure your brand, product or service stands out from the crowd. Take your time to develop the unique selling points of your business and promote it to your key target market.

5. Where permissible, test your product or service in the market before committing to the business.

Importantly, don’t just ask family and friends as they will likely be biased.

For more information on local business support, or to contact the Business Concierge Service, visit geelongaustralia.com.au/business Free business promotion, resources and mentoring sessions are also available.

UPCOMING EVENTS IN YOUR LOCAL AREA

Pictured: The Tempe Manning selfportrait at Archie 100

GREAT AUSTRALIAN BEER FESTIVAL

GEELONG REVIVAL MOTORING FESTIVAL

15 January 2022 Johnstone Park

5–6 March 2022 Geelong Waterfront

Indulge in Australia’s biggest alfresco beer tasting and appreciation event at the Great Australian Beer Festival.

Treat yourself and sip, sample and taste over 200 beers that will be on offer.

Start your engines and get ready to hit the track for the Geelong Revival Motoring Festival. See the historic quarter-mile sprints and over 600 unique and fascinating vehicles over two action-packed days.

ARCHIE 100 On now until 20 February 2022 Geelong Gallery Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Archibald Prize, Archie 100 explores the history of Australia’s most prestigious portrait award.

This exhibition discovers a diverse collection of Archibald portraits from the last century, featuring works that have dazzled and shocked.

Let’s continue showing our support for local businesses which have been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Visit: itsourbackyard.com.au

Pictured: Great Australian Beer Festival

Pictured: Geelong Revival Motoring Festival

AND MORE! Toast to the Coast has been confirmed for Sunday 6 February next year. There will be 80+ wines on offer from 19 local wineries, plus tastings from local distilleries and breweries.

See the world’s fastest criterium!

Watch thrilling racing as part of the Bay Cycling Classic when it hits Eastern Park from 8–9 January 2022.

Choose local products or services for your gifts

For the latest event information please visit eventsgeelong.com.au

BE THE PERSON WHO HEARS IT FIRST! Sign up today to receive our newsletter at eventsgeelong.com.au

Choose local food and beverages, buy direct

Catch up with family and friends at local venues

COMMUNITY UPDATE SUMMER 2021 | 19

CITY OF GREATER GEELONG Wadawurrung Country PO Box 104, Geelong VIC 3220 P: 5272 5272 E: contactus@geelongcity.vic.gov.au W: geelongaustralia.com.au

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Cover image: David Potter, Vivien Allen, Dr Bernard Shiu and Dominic Raimondo preparing to share a Christmas feast. Read more on page 13.

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