Life’s a beach for Bode and Charlie
Eight-month-old twins Bode and Charlie were able to enjoy Ocean Grove main beach on April 1, but it won’t be long before they will need to really rug up.
While there will still be some warm days to come in autumn, it looks like summer has finally left us.
The forecast for the next week has revealed that the top temperature won’t climb to more than 22 degrees with early next week not more than 19 degrees.
If it isn’t already, it will soon be time for puffer jackets and beanies at our favourite beaches on the Bellarine.
See page 25 for more out and about pics at the beach.
PM promises upgrades
By Jena Carr
Drysdale will receive upgraded netball courts if Labor wins the federal election, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese promised during a visit this week.
The PM met with Drysdale Football Netball Club members and players on the club’s home courts at Drysdale Recreation Reserve on Tuesday, April 1.
Mr Albanese said the federal government was making an election commitment to the club of $5.45 million in funding to upgrade the reserve’s courts and facilities.
“Both netball and football will benefit from this investment. The shed’s upgrade will bring it up to scratch,” he said.
“It’s a beautiful place to live, and I’ve got to say that I’m a bit ’jelly’ of this community. I first came here many years ago, in the early 1980s,
and it’s just a stunning local backdrop.
“We want young people to get off their devices and onto the netball courts, footy fields, and tennis courts and engage with each other.
Nothing beats that than team sports.
“Communities like this need facilities like this to bring a sense of pride. If you make the finals, you want to play a home game if you’ve finished in the appropriate order and this will ensure that can occur.”
Club president Trevor Hume said the reserve had fallen behind the rest of the grounds across the region and that it would be good for the Drysdale club to be able to play a grand final at home.
“We have over 300 netball members and we’d have more than that in football and then you’ve got the families, friends, carers and everybody else within the community that are involved,” he said.
“If you came down here in the middle of winter, you would identify some of the issues around lighting, but it’s also about having courts that the players can train fully on.
“At the moment the netball courts aren’t up to standard to play finals netball, so we can’t apply to hold finals or host finals at our reserve until they come up to speed. So, it’s going to mean a lot.”
Federal Member for Corangamite Libby Coker said she was “thrilled” to deliver the election commitment.
“What it will mean is that the club has two new netball courts, which will be compliant. For so long, this club has not been able to play the finals,” she said.
“We’re going to put new netball club rooms in... which is going to be a fantastic investment in this club and community, and there is also going to be new spectator seating and lighting.”
Drysdale Football and Netball club president Trevor Hume with Member for Corangamite Libby Coker and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese. (Ivan
Grove sports plan needs funds
By Matt Hewson
The City of Greater Geelong has put the call out for bipartisan funding commitments for its Ocean Grove Sporting Infrastructure Plan ahead of the federal election.
The council needs $10 million in funding to kickstart the priority Devlins Road project, whichwouldseetheOceanGroveSoccerClub relocated to a purpose-built soccer complex at the site.
ThetwoexistingsoccerpitchesatShellRoad Reserve would subsequently be converted to a second football and cricket oval, with
expansion of the cricket nets and an extra undercover netball court also on the list.
The plan also involves improvements at Collendina, Memorial, Arthur Powell and Wallington Recreation Reserves.
Peter Dutton announced last week a Liberal government would provide $5 million if elected.
The infrastructure plan has been in the works for years now, originally commissioned in 2019 as a review and update of the 2010 plan.
The plan attempts to address the growth in Ocean Grove and Wallington, with their
populations forecast to grow by nearly 15 per cent over the next decade.
The last five years alone has seen a 77 per cent jump in participation in soccer in the area, while AFL (+49%) and netball (+42%) also experiencing huge growth in numbers.
Connewarre Ward councillor Elise Wilkinson said sport was an important part of the lifestyle of local residents.
“Community members in my ward are very active, social and experience physical, social and mental health benefits from playing sport,” Cr Wilkinson said.
Aquaphilia on the Bellarine
A free photographic exhibition celebrating the joy of sunrise swimming and living on the Bellarine is now open.
Aquaphilia opened at Hat Rock
Contemporary Gallery on Thursday April 3.
PhotographerAnneSpudvilassaidshealways had a camera with her and that photographs featured the region’s sea life, birds, swimmers, sunrises and the weather.
“This is the first time I’ve had a solo show of my photos. My background is mostly in children’s book illustrations, printmaking and portrait painting,” she said.
“With the official opening, I just want it to be a lovely, big, noisy night with friends and family while meeting people I haven’t met before. I hope everyone will like the work.
“All that gorgeous experience that we have in the morning watching the sun come up over the water... We have pelicans that come down and swim past us or fly right over us.
“You have that awe and wonder experience of seeing the sun come up over the sea. It’s gorgeous and different every day. You never know what you’re going to see, it’s always unexpected.”
Ms Spudvilas said she moved to Indented Head from the Murray/Darling junction more than two and a half years ago and that the region’s qualities inspired her.
“The sky, water, twisted shapes of dark trees along the shoreline and the swimmers themselves are all great subject matter,” she said.
“I’ve been photographing them every morning for the past two years... and these photos share the experience of living by the bay.”
Jena Carr
“With the shortfall in infrastructure, we’re struggling to meet demand and so we urge both sides of government to commit to this worthy project.”
The infrastructure plan was set to come before the council at its March meeting, but the item was taken off the agenda at the last minute.
Greater Geelong chief executive Ali Wastie said the removal of the item was due to “a request from community groups that have yet to respond and provide letters of support” for the plan and will be presented in coming months.
Geelong council’s planning committee has refused a local dog breeder’s application to breed up to five dogs at a residential address in Clifton Springs.
Helen Whiteside had applied for a permit to keep and breed up to five dogs at 36 Kanyanya Avenue, Clifton Springs, which is within a General Residential Zone 1.
Ms Whiteside has been running a small dog breeding business in the township for the past 15 years, with her domestic animal business permit for her current breeding site at 142 Bay Shore Road expiring on April 9 and recently refused for renewal by the council.
At an emotion-charged meeting last week the planning committee heard angry claims from residents about noise, dog conditions and environmental and health concerns around dog waste.
Supporters for Ms Whiteside highlighted her professionalism and care for her animals and the benefits her business brought to the community and individuals.
Councillorsnotedtheywereconcerned purely with the planning aspects of the permit.
“This is not about character, this is not about perceptions that the welfare of the dogs is not being maintained… it is a question about planning,” Cr Emma Sinclair said.
“Some of those issued raised around noise in relation to the appropriateness of use in a residential area is something we need to seriously consider.”
PlanningCommitteechairCrAndrew Katossaidtheproposedapplication“had the potential to create further conflict in the neighbourhood”.
Anne Spudvilas with photos from her Aquaphilia exhibition. (Ivan Kemp) 469046_01
Budget ticks off road and clinic
The Barwon Heads Road upgrade will be officially funded, and an urgent health care clinic is coming to the Surf Coast, according to Tuesday’s budget.
Treasurer Jim Chalmers delivered his fourth federal budget on March 25, confirming that Barwon Heads Road Upgrade would receive a $68.2millionboosttofullydelivertheproject’s second stage.
The funding will help upgrade close to 6km of road infrastructure from a two-lane to a four-lane arterial road along Reserve Road to Lower Duneed Road.
“Building Australia’s future also means building on the strength of our regions... with roads and railways connecting our regions to our cities and support economic growth,” Mr Chalmers said.
“We are investing more than $120 billion in infrastructure in every state and territory over the decade, improving the productivity, resilience, livability and sustainability of our cities, regions and communities.”
Federal Member for Corangamite Libby Coker said the works would feature new traffic lights, a shared-use path, and upgraded
Lions back young drivers
AgroupoflocalLionsClubshavecometogether to help provide a new vehicle for young people to improve their driving skills in Ocean Grove. Lions Clubs Leopold, Ocean Grove Barwon Heads, Portarlington-Drysdale and Queenscliff Point Lonsdale have joined forces withCommunityBankLeopoldandtheCityof Greater Geelong to fund a new Kia Rio for the TAC’s L2P program.
The program pairs L-platers aged between 16 and 21 with volunteer driving mentors in supervised driving sessions, giving young people the chance to get driving experience and increase their supervised driving hours.
Last financial year saw 202 local learner drivers participate, with 56 of those graduating and successfully gaining their P-plates. Ocean Grove currently has five learners and seven mentors engaged in the program.
Leopold Lions Club president Rhiannon Russell said the L2P program was deserving of the support as it offered young people an
opportunity to obtain a driver’s licence which otherwise may be beyond their reach.
“The L2P program certainly qualifies for the Lions organisation’s mantra of caring for and aiding the community,” Ms Russell said.
SecretaryBronwynShearersaidCommunity Bank Leopold was proud to support the Lions clubs with funding over three years for the Geelong TAC L2P Program.
“Our commitment in working together to meet the needs of our community is well establishedandwearepleasedtobeinvolvedin such a worthwhile project,” she said.
People interested in participating as a learner or mentor can apply on the L2P page at transport.vic.gov.au or email L2P@geelongcity. vic.gov.au or call the L2P project officer on 03 5272 5272.
Brendon Jones, Bronwyn Shearer, Jennire Ferguson, Emily Ryan, Adrian Miles, Bernie Cole and deputy mayor Ron Nelson. (Supplied)
intersections, with construction expected to start later this year.
“By 2031 Barwon Heads Road is projected to carry up to 44,000 cars and trucks every day, and Armstrong Creek is one of the Victoria’s fastest growing suburbs,” she said.
“The Barwon Heads Road duplication will create a safer road environment for our fast-growing region by improving traffic flow and ensuring working families spend less time in the car and more time at home.”
The budget also revealed a $657.9 million commitment to deliver 50 urgent care clinics
across the country, including a Torquay Medicare Urgent Care Clinic. The clinic was initially announced by Ms Cokerearlierthismonthasanelectionpromise by the Labor Party, with the exact federal funding for the project not yet known.
“(This will help in) taking pressure of hospitals and emergency departments, and all you need is your Medicare card,” Mr Chalmers said. “Four in every five Australians will live within a 20-minute drive of an urgent care clinic as a consequence; opening early, closing late, available on weekends.”
Providing urgent care virtually
The Victorian Virtual Emergency Department (VVED) is making major milestones after providing more than half a million consultations across the state, including across Greater Geelong.
The VVED started as a pilot in October 2020 and was rolled out statewide in April 2022 to providefreearound-the-clockcaretopeoplein the comfort of their homes.
Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant said close to four per cent of the total VVED visits
were from people across the region.
“Congratulationstothehardworkingdoctors and nurses who are delivering this innovative service,” she said.
“Theirhardworksupportingthecommunity through the VVED is improving care across the state including right here in the Bellarine and Greater Geelong region.”
Services included clinical assessments, medical advice, treatment and referrals, with the program helping 83 per cent of patients
Free aged care support
Older members of the community will be able to better navigate the aged care system as Bellarine Community Health (BCH) expands its support services.
BCH established a volunteer-run hub in Portarlington last year to try to help people overtheageof65connectwithMyAgedCare.
Many people accessing the service have come from the Drysdale/Clifton Springs area, so BCH is expanding this free service to include a second site at the BCH centre in Drysdale.
The BCH Ageing Well Hub will operate on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from both Drysdale and Portarlington from 10am to noon.
BCH home care packages manager Laura Fitzpatrick said many people want to stay at home as long as possible and maintain their independence as they age, but knowing what to do and how to access supports and services can be difficult.
“In terms of aged care information and services, there is so much out there,” she said.
“Some of it is irrelevant and outdated and funding or programs are no longer in existence, but on the flip side there is so much information that can assist and guide our local community to age well and remain safe in their homes and communities.
“We look forward to welcoming more of our locals as well as visitors to our community into the ‘BCH Ageing Well Hub’ and keeping you updated on how we can all play a part in helping people and ourselves age well and remain safe in our own homes and communities.”
Make an appointment for either site on 1800 007 224.
avoid an unnecessary trip to the hospital.
MinisterforAmbulanceServicesMary-Anne Thomas said there was a high demand for the VVED, with close to 22,000 calls in December 2024 alone.
“With more than 500,000 video consultations, the VVED has become a service Victorians rely on and it is all thanks to the hardworking doctors and nurses who support patients 24/7,” she said.
The VVED also supported more direct
referrals from aged care, paramedics in the field, primary health networks, the Nurse on Call service and self-referrals from the community.
The virtual service is one of many initiatives by the state government to help take pressure offthehealthsystem,including29UrgentCare Clinics across the state. Visit vved.org.au. to access the VVED. People are still advised to callTripleZeroorgototheirclosestemergency department if faced with an emergency.
BCH volunteer coordinator Kai Whyte, BCH volunteer Lindy Parker and BCH home care packages manager Laura Fitzpatrick. (Supplied)
Aged care uncertainty
By Matt Hewson
Union organisations have reacted with shock to City of Greater Geelong’s (CoGG) announcement that it plans to ditch home care for the region’s aged.
The City released a statement on Wednesday (April 2) saying CoGG officers have recommended the council transition all in-home community care clients to “specialist local providers”.
Currently, CoGG’s service provides home visits, transport, food preparation, planned activity groups and socialisation programs, basic gardening and orthotics for eligible older people.
Council will vote on whether to go forward with officers’ proposed reforms at a meeting on Thursday, April 10.
Geelong Trades Hall Council secretary and treasurer Anthony Anderson said his organisation was “appalled” at the City’s intentions.
“Geelong Trades Hall Council calls on the City of Greater Geelong council to rethink its position,” he said.
“(We have) concerns on the ramifications for the people that access these services within the City of Greater Geelong’s coverage and views it as (a) slap in the face for the community of the Geelong region.
MrAndersonalsocalledoncouncilto“come clean” on whether its April 10 meeting would be open to the public.
Australian Services Union Victorian and Tasmanian Branch secretary Tash Wark said the decision was “both cruel and financially reckless”.
“Everyone knows the council-run home care service is the best available in our community,” Ms Wark said.
“Cutting the service will create safety risks for people who try to keep living at home without the support they need, and will lead to a rush on aged care homes that are already under huge strain.”
CoGG chief executive Ali Wastie said the City’s aim was to “ensure our community is provided the best possible service to its ageing population”.
“When considering these reforms, we had to consider very carefully what would be best for our clients,” Ms Wastie said.
“We feel that specialised aged care providers who make this their core business will provide thebeststandardofcaregoingintothefuture.”
Council opens youth survey
The Geelong council has invited young people to make their voice heard, with the City opening its 2025 Geelong Youth Survey.
People aged 12 to 25, parents, carers, people who work in education and interested community members can complete a five-minute online survey to share their experiences and insights about the key issues facing young people in the region.
The information provided by respondents, who may remain anonymous, will be used to help the City form youth policies going forward.
Young people who participate can also go into the draw for prizes including a Nintendo Switch, Apple iPad, Kindle, speakers, headphones and Westfield gift cards.
Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj encouraged community members to have their say.
“Whether you’re a young person, involvedineducationorcaringforyoung people,wewanttohearfromyou,”Mayor Kontelj said. “This survey only takes five minutes to complete and will help us to ensureweprovidetherightsupportsthat align with young people’s priorities.”
Youth Council junior mayor Ayush Singhsaidthesurveyofferedaneasyway for young people to communicate with the council.
Visit yoursay.geelongaustralia.com. au/GYS2025 before Tuesday, May 13 to take part in the survey or for more information.
City of Greater Geelong chief executive Ali Wastie. (Supplied)
Striving for healthy
By Cr Rowan Story
The 2024 Geelong Preventative Health Survey results were unveiled on Wednesday, providing a snapshot of the health and wellbeing of people across our city.
Every three to four years, Council conducts this survey to help us understand the needs of the community.
The survey measures important trends for keyhealthindicatorsincludinghealthyeating, mental health, physical activity, smoking and vaping, alcohol consumption, personal safety and the health impacts of climate change.
As chair of council’s Health portfolio, I was keen to read the results and gain a better understanding of how health concerns vary throughout Greater Geelong.
As a teacher of law and ethics in healthcare, I was also interested to see how the survey identifies areas of inequity throughout the region.
Ten thousand households were selected at random to partake in the survey, with representation from each suburb in Geelong.
Having participants from all areas and demographics ensured that the survey captured areas of health and wellbeing disparity across our community.
The findings indicated that Geelong residents tend to score higher than the state average across many health and wellbeing indicators.
But self-reported health has declined, with 51 per cent of participants reporting good health in the most recent survey, down from 59 per cent in 2017.
Participants pointed to inclusion within the community, future security and physical health as key components leading to high life satisfaction and positive wellbeing.
Thesurveyalsorevealedthatlonelinessand isolation are prevalent health issues in our community.
Twenty-five per cent of participants said they felt lonely, which is higher than the 23 per cent state average.
This percentage skyrocketed for young participants aged 18 to 24 (60 per cent) and people who have a disability (61 per cent).
These figures are concerning and will be taken into consideration when we look at initiatives and programs that advocate for community inclusion, particularly for our youth and people with disabilities.
The survey also grouped participants by geographicareas.OceanGrovewasgroupedin with Barwon Heads, Breamlea, Connewarre, Mannerim, Marcus Hill, Point Lonsdale, Swan Bay and Wallington (Planning Area 2).
In this area, 88 per cent reported good life satisfaction, giving a rating of seven or higher out of 10.
Participants from this area also tended to feel safer than in most other areas of Greater Geelong.
Ninety-five per cent of Planning Area 2 participants said they felt ’safe’ or ’very safe’ where they live.
This sentiment was echoed in Planning Area 3 (spanning Bellarine, Clifton Springs, Curlewis and Drysdale), where 85 per cent of participants felt safe or very safe living in their community.
In Indented Head, Portarlington and St Leonards 88 per cent of participants felt safe to very safe.
TheCityofGreaterGeelongbeganrecording thislocalhealthdatain2017,andithashelped guide our planning and decision-making for infrastructure, initiatives, programs and advocacy that directly respond to community needs.
I look forward to working with Council to address the concerns raised and build upon our previous work for a happier, healthier Geelong where all of its citizens can flourish.
Murradoc ward councillor Rowan Story AM, RFD. (Supplied)
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Borough against illegal graffiti
The Borough of Queenscliffe will take a stronger approach to illegal graffiti to ensure the region remains safe, clean and welcoming.
The borough adopted, four councillors to one, the Graffiti Management Policy during its March 26 council meeting to protect public and private spaces from illegal graffiti.
Councillor Donnie Grigau said the borough historically had low levels of graffiti but acknowledged that a structured response was needed due to rising incidents, particularly during peak tourist seasons.
“Council has a zero-tolerance approach to
illegal graffiti given its detrimental impact on the borough, its environmental heritage values and tourism appeal,” he said.
“Principals outlined in the policy include mitigation, removal, enforcement and community collaboration to ensure a proactive and effective approach to managing graffiti.
“(We need) adequate financial resources to ensure the policy is implemented effectively, including timely graffiti removal from council-owned assets.
“Italsoincludesatwo-businessdayresponse timeframe for standard removal requests on
council-owned managed properties and a two-hour response timeframe for removing offensive or obscene graffiti.
“It’s very important that we all know, depending on where the graffiti is located, who’s responsible legally to remove the graffiti. This policy and guidance make it very clear to the public and council about whose responsibility it is to remove graffiti.”
Cr Isabelle Tolhurst put forward an alternative motion during the meeting to have the policy put on public exhibition for 28 days and to seek Victoria Police input, but her motion was lost.
Celebrating an Aussie motoring icon
The 2025 All Ford Day is set to be the biggest and best ever, as the iconic motoring company celebrates 100 years in Australia.
The annual event, now in its 34th year, will welcome more than 50 motoring clubs to Geelong’s Eastern Park this Sunday (April 6), with 1500 vehicles on display.
Featuredcarswillrangefromearlymotoring machines to modern performance vehicles and everything in between.
Event secretary Chris Sager said this year’s day was shaping up to be an “amazing experience” for Ford lovers.
“Itreallyisaboutthecars,theyarethespecial attractions,” Mr Sager said.
“We are the largest single make car event in Australia, and what people love is the opportunity to come together to celebrate their beloved Ford and to spend time with friends.
“We’ve got about 50 attendee clubs, they bring picnics, they set up and enjoy the whole day together. It’s great to see.”
The day will feature some of the first-ever ‘Dalgety’ Model T Fords built in the Dalgety Wool Store, a selection of rare vehicles from Ford Australia’s Heritage Collection and legendary cars from Bowden’s Own.
Special guests from Geelong Cats will also attend, as will V8 Supercar drivers, Ford designers and industry dignitaries.
Mr Sager said the organising committee was privileged to be able to deliver such a beloved Geelong event.
“We definitely consider ourselves custodians of a community event, so our focus is on delivering what people love,” he said.
“There is a generational history of Ford ownership and Ford production in Geelong, and that’s absolutely something we’re here to support.”
All Ford Day is at Eastern Park on Sunday, April6,withgatesopenat9am.Visitallfordday. org.au for tickets or get them at the gate.
Matt Hewson
“I have little opposition to a policy that seeks to formalise a proactive approach to a localissuelikegraffitiandthispolicyisagood start,” she said.
“But there’s no mention of the role of police and no reference to the existing operational procedures that support our management of graffiti identification and removal.
“Going to community consultation is a chance to strengthen a policy. For example, with the removal of offensive or obscene material, how do we define that in the policy? And is two hours realistic for a small council with a limited budget?”
Greater Geelong’s mayor is calling for the release of the Bellarine Link business case and to support the Geelong Ring Road Extension.
StretchKonteljOAMwrotetothestate minister for Transport Infrastructure and Public and Active Transport, Gabrielle Williams, to appeal for the extension’s, or ‘Bellarine Link’, business case.
The state government completed a business case in 2022, following community consultations, traffic modelling, social studies and environmentalinvestigationstoexamine the potential for a future road extension.
Mr Kontelj said council had requested thebusinesscaseonmanyoccasionsand that it was important to put the project ontheradaraheadofthefederalelection.
“A Bellarine Link is one of our local and regional priorities that require investment from the Commonwealth and Victorian governments,” he said.
“Withoutthebusinesscasebeingmade public, it’s difficult to get a full picture of what’s possible and challenging to advocate for funding.
“With the extension identified as a key infrastructure project in the state’s Big Build, we ask that the business case is made public so we can get on with advocating for our community’s needs.”
The Bellarine Link would connect Baanip Boulevard at the Surf Coast Highway to Barwon Heads Road, delivering a critical road link between Melbourne, Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula.
Travel times between the Geelong Ring Road and some of the furthest points on the Bellarine Peninsula would be cut by up to 15 minutes and alleviate congestion.
Blitz mentor a good sport: Shane Hunter celebrated at awards
PeninsulaBlitzBasketballClub’sShaneHunter is a good sport.
ThisweekShanewascelebratedattheannual Good Sports Awards at the MCG, recognising his outstanding dedication to fostering a safe, inclusive,andpositivesportingculturetowards the Drysdale based club.
Good Sports Awards recipients have gone above and beyond through the Alcohol and Drug Foundation’s Good Sports program, helping to break the link between alcohol and sport and tackling topics like illicit drugs, smoking, mental health, and safe transport.
Shane’s recognition as the runner-up Victorian Volunteer of the Year reflects his
outstanding dedication to fostering a safe, inclusive, and positive sporting culture at Peninsula Blitz Basketball Club – values that strongly align with the Good Sports program.
Club spokesperson Peter Hobbs highlighted Shane’s role in embedding Good Sports principles within the club’s culture.
“Shane has been instrumental in shaping Peninsula Blitz into a club that prioritises health,wellbeing,andcommunityconnection,” he said. “His leadership has helped create an environment where players and families feel supported and inspired to make positive lifestyle choices, including a more mindful approach to alcohol.
“Since joining Good Sports, our club has strengthened its commitment to fostering a culture that values participation over alcohol. Shane has embraced this mission wholeheartedly, leading by example and ensuring our teams, families, and volunteers feel empowered to focus on the game, their wellbeing, and each other.
“Shane’s influence extends beyond the basketball court – he embodies everything Good Sports stands for: passion, leadership, and community impact.
“His tireless commitment to ensuring our club remains a safe, welcoming space makes him truly deserving of this recognition.“
Event Secretary Chris Sager and Rex Gorell marketing manager Pike Peters. (Ivan Kemp) 469089_05
Shane Hunter was recognised as a good sport at the Good Sports Awards at the MCG. (Supplied)
Gardens and dams dry as a chip
Even though it is one month into autumn, the weather still feels like summer, and the rain a few weeks ago has not been followed up by further meaningful precipitation, so the garden is dry as a chip again.
Anyone cynical about the science of global warming may change their minds after driving around the farms of the Bellarine and spotting the empty farm dams (even Donald Trump).
I haven’t seen many raptors around the Bellarine over the past few weeks, and didn’t spot any wedge-tailed eagles either, after seeing a pair with a fledgling a few times previously.
I saw a pair of nankeen kestrels at Lake Road, Connewarre when I drove down this road on my way to work. I completely forgot that the horrible duck shooting ‘season’ had commenced, and I usually give Lake Road a wide berth to avoid the shooting.
MyfriendAndreaDennettsubsequently informed me that currently there is no shooting allowed at Hospital Swamp, but Reedy Lake is open for the carnage.
Andrea and John Murray also provided me with hooded plover statistics for the 2025 Bellarine Peninsula breeding season. Around the Bellarine beaches there are seven breeding pairs of hoodies. A total of 19 nests were created by these pairs, resulting in 49 eggs laid. Eight
chicks hatched (16 percent of eggs laid) and one of these survived to fledge.
Luckily the Surf Coast and Mornington Peninsula has a better success rate, with one pair in Anglesea successfully raising three fledglings (which is a miracle).
John Murray walked the Bellarine beaches on 151 occasions to monitor nests, and on these walks, he spotted 144 dogs unleashed in areas where the signs specify that they must be on a lead, which does indicate that signs are useless without consequences. John is certainly a ‘hoodlum’ champion.
Isawawhite-neckedheronatMannerim that was in a lovely position for a photo. White-necked herons are larger in stature and less commonly seen compared to white-faced herons.
These birds stand more than a metre in height and have a white neck with two lines of black spots that run down the length of the neck. I hadn’t really noticed until I saw this particular bird that their underparts are streaked black and white. I received a phone call from neighbours Carole and Rhonda early one morning that they had an exciting visitor to their property, namely a tawny frogmouth, that had made itself comfortable on the hose reel on the second story balcony. They were worried that the bird might have been unwell as it did not fly off when Rhonda accidentally disturbed it when she went to grab the hose, but it looked very alert and well.
CaroleandRhondakepttheirdoginside all day and closed the curtains to give the tawny some privacy, and it remained on thehosereelalldayuntilitflewoffaround 8pm. I’m hoping that the bird visits my garden in the near future.
Make Easter Magical with Our Toy
Jen’s white-necked heron at Mannerim.
Round 1
Saturday 5th April Vs Modewarre AWAY
Round 2
Saturday 12th April V Portarlington Home
Round 3
Saturday 19th April Vs Anglesea Away
Round 4
Saturday 26th April Vs Newcomb Away
Round 5
Saturday 3rd May Vs Queenscliff Home
Round 6
Saturday 10th May Vs Barwon Heads Home
Round 7
Saturday 24th May Vs Geelong Amateur Away
Round 8
Saturday 31st May Vs Drysdale Home
Round 9
Saturday 7th June Vs Portarlington Away
Round 10
Saturday 14th June Vs Torquay Home
Round 11
Saturday 21st June Vs Anglesea Home
Round 12
Saturday 28th June Vs Queenscliff Away
Round 13
Saturday 5th July Vs Modewarre Home
Round 14
Saturday 19th July Vs Barwon Heads Away
Round 15
Saturday 26th July Vs Newcomb Home
Round 16 Saturday 2nd August Vs Drysdale Away
Round 17
Saturday 9th August Vs Geelong Amateur Home
Round 18 Saturday 16th August Vs Torquay Away
FINAL SERIES Finals Commence August 23rd Grand Final Saturday 13th September
CELEBRATING SENIORS
Five things to consider when joining a retirement village
Joining a retirement village or other form of seniors housing is a significant decision, marking the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunities. Villages can provide a fun and fulfilling lifestyle, safety and security all within a community environment. However, with so many great options available, it is essential to consider what each village offers to ensure it meets your needs and preferences. Here are five key factors from Aged and Community Care Providers Association (ACCPA) CEO Tom Symondson to keep in mind when selecting the right village for you.
Amenities / facilities
Consider what amenities and facilities are important to you in a retirement village. Many villages offer recreational options such as swimming pools, gyms and bowling greens. On-site services such as hair salons, libraries and cafes can add convenience and enhance the community atmosphere. Identify which amenities are most important to you and ensure the village you choose meets those needs. Many new developments and service models have emerged and grown in popularity, such as Land Lease Communities. These communities are known for their access to premium amenities.
Health and support services
Healthcare and support services may be essential to you as you age. Investigate the care services provided within the village. With the increasing popularity of home care in retirement village settings, it is worth exploring whether the village operates its own home care services or partners with reputable third-party providers to deliver these services. Some villages have co-located facilities with residential aged care. This can
ensure a seamless transition if you care needs change over time. This integrated approach can ensure peace of mind and allows you to age in place.
Financial considerations
A big hurdle for downsizers is the confusion around exit fees, which are standard in retirement villages. The exit fee is simply the ‘lease payment’ for the period of time you spend at the village. Most states in Australia now provide village comparison documents to help prospective residents make informed decisions and compare different villages based on standardised criteria, making it
Home Care Package Provider
easier to understand the financial obligations and benefits each village offers. For those considering other options such as land lease communities, Commonwealth rental support may be available to help offset rental fees. It is essential to do thorough research and figure out what is best for you, considering both the financial implications and the lifestyle benefits each option provides.
Sense of community
The sense of community and overall culture of the village can significantly impact your quality of life. Spend time visiting the village, talking to current residents and getting a
feel for the spirit and atmosphere. Research increasingly shows that retirement living is associated with a positive quality of life, bringing significant benefits such as a sense of safety, companionship and access to support. This supportive community environment can enhance emotional well-being and provide a network of friends and neighbours who share similar interests and experiences, making your retirement years more fulfilling and enjoyable.
Accreditation
Accreditation is a crucial factor in evaluating the quality of a village. It not only ensures compliance with industry standards but also highlights areas for continuous improvement. The Australian Retirement Village Accreditation Scheme (ARVAS) is a comprehensive accreditation program that assesses various aspects of village operations, including governance, communication, corporate systems and service delivery. Achieving ARVAS accreditation indicates that a village is committed to maintaining high standards and prioritising resident well-being. When choosing a retirement village, consider its ARVAS accreditation status, as it reflects the village’s dedication to providing a high-quality, supportive and well-managed living environment.
Choosing the right retirement village or seniors housing option involves careful consideration of various factors to ensure it aligns with your lifestyle, health needs, financial situation, accommodation preferences and social desires. Everyone is different, so there is no wrong or right answer - what works for one person may not work for another
Quality care and respect
Remaining independent while receiving the best quality care has never been easier, with Just Better Care offering many services.
Thespecialisthome-agedanddisabilitycare support service is one of Australia’s largest in-home support providers and features a skilled team of caring people.
Clients Barb and Bob Ross said that Just Better Care Geelong and their team made it easy to remain “fiercely independent” while receiving assistance when needed.
“TheyaredoingalotofthethingsthatIhave had to take on in the past. As I am getting older and have some health issues as well, the
help and assistance is so valued” Barb said. “They’re doing things for us that really enhanceourqualityoflife.Iseeandexperience them as people who respect, encourage and don’t interfere. You can’t ask for anything better than that,” Bob said.
To start your Just Better Care journey, call 03 5222 1518, email mailge@justbettercare. com or visit the caring team at their office at Level 1 114a Mt Pleasant Road in Belmont. Visit justbettercare.com/Geelong for more information.
CELEBRATING SENIORS
Miles of smiles at Affordable Dentures
Gain a smile worthy of showing off by the team at Affordable Denture Clinic, now in East Geelong.
Established 10 years ago, the clinic can provide you with a mouth full of solutions including,dentures,partialdentures,custom mouth guards and denture implants.
OwneranddentalprosthetistJasonDemko has more than 30 years experience in the dental field and has just opened the doors to the clinic’s brand new location at 306 Myers Street, East Geelong.
Mr Demko and his team are able to discuss a variety of options to help you achieve your best smile yet.
Ensuring to keep up-to-date with dental prosthetist technologies, Mr Demko focuses on utilising a variety of systems to integrate new practices into his denture work at the clinic.
As part of their care and quality focused service, Affordable Denture Clinic is the only denture clinic in the Geelong and greater district area authorised to provide and manufacture Valplast, the only dentures with an unbreakable lifetime guarantee.
Metal free and with invisible clasps, they’re a great resolution to your denture needs.
Striving to find the best denture solution, Mr Demko and his team ensure the utmost care and quality of service to their patients.
“We are a family owned business committed to providing highly personalised services to each individual,” he says.
The clinic’s new location, Mr Demko says, is a reflection of hard work and commitment to provide an environment to give his clients the very best in dental prosthetics. He says it wouldn’t have been possible without the ongoing support from the community and his clients.
Jason Demko with patient Eddie Fraser (right), and inside the clinic. (Ivan Kemp)
Musical tribute to rock legend
By Matt Hewson
A show celebrating the life and music of AustralianrockiconChrissyAmphlettisgoing from strength to strength.
The Divinyls Story: It’s a Fine Line returns to Piano Bar this weekend, following a sell-out show at the Little Malop Street venue in November last year.
Created by musician Chrissy Burrell, who takes on the role of the feisty frontwoman, the show features a six-piece band of local musicians performing all the hits and B-sides from the Divinyls catalogue.
BetweensongsBurrelltalksaboutAmphlett; her challenges as a woman in the music industry, her triumphs and tragedies.
Burrell has been performing in rock bands
Chrissy Burrell. (Ivan Kemp) 469040_03
for 30 years, first in Melbourne, then for the past 15 years in Geelong after she moved here to raise a family.
“I always did rock, 80s rock, which included Chrissy Amphlett,” Burrell said. “She was this
strong female rock singer, and she definitely influenced my performances back then.
“After I had my daughter I went back to the solo, duo stuff… (which helped me) evolve and keep learning about music, because you realise you have to sing in a different way.”
As her daughter got older, Burrell began dipping her toe back in the rock band water, and soon found people comparing her voice to Amphlett’s.
Then, in late 2023 the bass player in the band shewasperformingwithtoldhersheshoulddo a Divinyls tribute show.
“It took about six months before it actually drilled into my head that, actually, this is a great idea,” Burrell said.
“Then realising Chrissy Amphlett was from Geelong, it all just came together quite nicely.”
Cut to November 2024, and Burrell found herself singing at a sold-out show dedicated to Australia’s first rock goddess.
“That was an awesome show… it blew our minds and we had so much fun,” she said.
“(Chrissy Amphlett) went to Belmont High, and there were people there that had actually gone to school with her.
“One lady gave me a hug and said, ‘Chrissy wouldbesoproudofyou’.Thatconnectionwas just really beautiful.”
With more gigs on the book in the region and in Melbourne, Burrell hopes the show continues on for as long as possible.
“When you do a show that people enjoy, it is so awesome…. it’s such a privilege,” she said.
TheDivinylsStoryisatPianoBaronSunday, April 6.
Soul sisters bring the noise to Barwon Club
Geelong’s favourite soul band the Sweethearts returns to Barwon Club this weekend for a night of upbeat, funky fun.
Based at Matthew Flinders Girls Secondary College, the all-girl outfit features 30 of the region’s brightest up and coming musicians delivering two sets of soul, funk and R&B classics along with Sweethearts original numbers.
Established three decades ago, the Sweethearts are renowned for their dynamic,
dance-inducingperformances,havingplayedat major international festivals such as Montreux Jazz Festival and Jazz à Vienne.
Last July the band wowed audiences at Porretta Soul Festival during their tour of Italy, which drummer and band captain Ella Carty said was “really excellent”.
“We played seven shows over seven days on that tour, and it was just the best experience of my life, absolutely,” Carty said.
“There was one gig where we walked down
this gauntlet of Italian people just cheering us on. It was pretty awesome.”
Carty has been part of the Sweethearts program since year 7, first with the Young Hearts then joining the Sweethearts two years ago. She said the band had offered her some amazing opportunities.
“Sweethearts has genuinely been my whole life for the five years I’ve been in it,” Carty said.
“It’s a really good way to find like-minded young women who like to play music and have
strong aspirations for it as well.
“TheconnectionsthatI’veformedwithinthe band are just so good, they’re my best friends.”
Carty’s original music project Ella Joan will open the night.
The Sweethearts are at Barwon Club Saturday, April 5. Tickets are available at sweethearts.com.au or at the door. Under 18 attendees must have a legal guardian present.
BUSINESS IN F CUS
Memories are on the cards
In an era where digital interactions often overshadow tangible keepsakes, Cards in the Yard offers a refreshing return to personalised mementos that celebrate individual journeys and collective milestones.
FoundedbyMichaelPanckridge,aseasoned teacher and children’s author with a lifelong passionforcardcollecting,thisGeelong-based company specialises in crafting custom trading cards for schools, sports clubs, and communities.
One standout offering is the Year Level Graduation cards, designed to provide students and their families with lasting memories of their academic cohorts. Each card features a student’s image on the front, whilethereversesidehighlights10descriptive words that encapsulate their unique qualities, fosteringasenseofindividualrecognitionand pride.
Another innovative product is the 100 Days of School cards, which commemorate this educational milestone by showcasing both
current and ‘olden’ days dressed-up images of students. The backs of these cards cleverly transform into jigsaw pieces, which, when assembled, create a fun group photo of the entire class, reinforcing unity and shared experiences.
The process of creating these custom cards is both straightforward and collaborative. It begins with nominating an individual or team to oversee the project, followed by decisions regarding the classes or teams to be featured. Schools and clubs then provide theircolours,logos,andselectedphotographs. Once all information is submitted through the order form, Cards in the Yard handles the design and production, ensuring a seamless experience from concept to delivery. By blending traditional card-collecting enthusiasm with modern customisation, CardsintheYardnotonlypreservescherished memories but also strengthens community bonds,makingeachcardatreasuredkeepsake for years to come.
Cards in the Yard offers a refreshing return to personalised mementos. (Supplied)
Matt Hewson
Let’s gather for a pinot party
It’s time for a pinot party at Leura Park Estate.
Come, celebrate this temperamental, high maintenance and truly wonderful grape on Sunday May 18 from 11am to 5pm.
Just $30 gets you a complimentary tasting glass, your passport to savouring an array of amazing pinot noirs, all grown and crafted on the Bellarine, complimentary pinot noir and blended wine tastings.
Test Pilot Molly will rock on with the best of the best and guest wineries include Jack Rabbit Vineyard, Yes said the Seal and Cat out of the Bag.
Wine tastings
Ten pinot noir wines ready to be tasted, compared and revered. Pinot noir wine goodness tastings include:
Leura Park Estate
Sparkling pinot chardonnay
Rosé (50% pinot noir, 50% shiraz)
Pinot noir
Ms Flamingo & Associates (Moscato-style)
Cat out of the Bag
Pinot noir
Jack Rabbit Vineyard
Rosé (100% pinot noir)
P2 (50% pinot noir, 50% pinot gris)
Frizzante (moscato-style)
Pinot noir
LEURA PARK ESTATE
Artisan wines without compromise
• Sensational setting
• Stunning pizzas, platters & fresh local fare
• Live Music Sundays
• Wine Tastings
• Open Thurs - Sunday 11am - 5pm
1400 Portarlington Rd, Curlewis 03 5253 3180 leuraparkestate.com.au
12606035-SN21-23
Yes said the Seal Pinot noir
The full stable of multi award winning Leura Park Estate wines will also be available for purchase.
PLUS:
• Flying Brick Cider Co showcasing (and sampling) their range of naturally crafted ciders.
• Be tempted by a frozen moscato mojito or cosmopolitan.
FLYING BRICK CIDER CO
Funky, Fabulous, Fun.
• Landmark Bellarine venue
• Innovative space
• Delicious food
• 100% naturally crafted ciders
• Luxurious grounds & vineyard
• OPEN 7 Days 11am-5pm 1251 Bellarine Hwy, Wallington 03 5250 6577 flyingbrickciderco.com.au
12606701-KG21-23
• Delectable edibles - all day. Celebrate Pinot Party with our lavish foodie line up.
• Pizzas
• Slow cooked lamb, goats cheese and roquette (GFA)
• Stunning cheese & antipasto platters (GFA)
• Spicy wedges with sour cream and sweet chilli
• Hot chips with tomato sauce (GFA) (DFA)
• Panko crumbed calamari rings with chips and aioli
• Mushroom, caramelised onion and fetta arancini with chilli jam and salad (V) (GFA)
• Honey garlic chicken skewers w. satay sauce (GFA) (DFA)
JACK RABBIT VINEYARD
• Iconic Bellarine winery
• Unrivalled panoramic views
• Contemporary a la carte
• Sophisticated wines
• Lunch / Wine Tastings
• OPEN 7 Days
85 McAdams Lane, Bellarine 03 5251 2223 jackrabbitvineyard.com.au
12606706-RR21-23
• Spiced pulled lamb sliders with slaw and chips (GFA)
• Roast pumpkin, quinoa, kale, sprouts, cabbage and chickpea salad with a lemon, maple dressing (vegan) (GFA) (DFA)
• Bucket of spiced chicken drumettes with chips (GFA) (DFA)
GFA – Gluten free available DF – Dairy free available Tickets via leuraparkestate.com.au
THE RANGE @CURLEWIS
Finesse your form or just for fun.
• Lunch / Dinner / Snacks
• Burger, Beverage & Balls packages
• Barista coffe, beer, wine & cocktails
• OPEN 7 days 1201 Portarlington Rd, Curlewis Ph 5251 1111 curlewisgolf.com.au
It’s time for a pinot party at Leura Park Estate.
Shopping local in Barwon Heads
Izaac Grant with Harvey and Emma Dickson with Murphy.
Ron and Ann Laird.
Meaghan Rodriguez and Bronwynne Mirkovich.
Michael Kol and Justine Metayer.
Michael Kelly.
Maureen and Neale Frisch, and right, Kylie and Ben Atkinson. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 468728
Kate Purser and Sue Cowan.
PUZZLES
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
ACROSS
1 Medicinal allotment (6)
4 Propagates (8)
9 Extrinsic (5)
10 Malformed (9)
11 Spiritual (5)
12 Beatles song, –Wood (9)
13 Band member (8)
15 Buy back (6)
16 Gruff (6)
18 Region between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea (8)
23 Lasting (9)
24 Dance (5)
26 Pathological self-admirer (9)
27 Ancient (5)
28 Sapling (8)
29 Land surrounded by water (6)
DOWN
1 Division into two contrasted aspects (7)
2 Issue (5)
3 Non-specific (7)
5 Haunt (6)
6 Attain (7)
7 Pleasure (9)
8 Word with same meaning (7)
10 Japanese comic (5)
14 'Back to – –' (6,3)
16 Coniferous tree (7)
17 Labour (7)
19 A native people of Central America (5)
20 Traditions (7)
21 Examined (7)
22 Gentle and kind (6)
25 The press, collectively (5)
in the grid, how many words
four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.
1 Which 1986 coming-of-age film is based on Stephen King's novella TheBody (1982)?
2 Psittacines are more commonly known as what animal?
3 Of the seven chakras, which one is located at the base of the spine?
4 The characters in Teenage MutantNinjaTurtles are named after Italian Renaissance a)
8 True or false: black bears are not always black?
9 In which country was the Battle of Waterloo fought?
10 Who played the titular king in both the 1951 Broadway production and 1956 film adaptation of TheKingandI?
FROM THE ARCHIVES
Ocean Grove Voice looks back through the pages of our predecessors
8 years ago
March 29 to April 11, 2017
A group of Ocean Grove cyclists are pleading with City of Greater Geelong for a bike rack on The Terrace.
The group, which cycles every day and meets outside Mint Cafe on The Terrace, is forcedtoleavetheirbicyclesonthefootpath or hang them from trees.
COMMUNITY OCEANGROVEVOICE.COM.AU
6 years ago
April 10 to 24, 2019
Ocean Grove residents are pleading with council to install a pedestrian crossing on Kingston Downs Drive before it’s too late. The road, which services the rapidly expanding Kingston Estate, is used by schoolchildren riding and walking to two local primary schools.
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
4 years ago
April 9 to 22, 2021
Preliminary work on a potential “world class conservation area” stretching from Ocean Grove to Point Lonsdale is about to start.
TheSouthEastBellarineCoastalReserve Strategy, the brainchild of Ocean Grove Community Association, would further enhance one of the most significant conservation areas in the region, according to the City of Greater Geelong.
2 years ago
April 7 to 20, 2023
Greater Geelong council made its views clearontheproposeddevelopmentat57-59
The Parade, Ocean Grove, with councillors unanimously rejecting the developers’ application for a planning permit at last Thursday’s planning meeting.
The contentious development, a three-storey, 16 unit complex that was repeatedly described at the meeting by councillors, city officers and objectors alike as “monolithic”, was refused a planning permit on several grounds.
WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Voice Community Calendar, 1/47 Pakington Street, Geelong West, 3218, or email to newsdesk@voicegroup.com.au. Deadline for copy and announcements is 5pm Tuesday.
Bellarine Historical Society Inc.
Open to the public. Discover the area’s past. 1st & 3rd Sundays, 10.30am-12.30pm, Courthouse Museum, 11 High Street, Drysdale.
Ann 0407-234 541
Ocean Grove Library
School holiday programs: see website for details and bookings
Wednesday April 16 5.30pm-6.30pm. Lecture: How to create a wildlife friendly garden
Thursdays 3pm-4pm Tech Help - drop in session for basic tech needs
Mondays 10.30am-11.30am Preschool story time
Tuesdays 4pm-5pm Youth Collective (ages 12-18)
Wednesdays 9.30am-10am Toddler Time
Thursdays 11.30am-11.50am Baby Time
Thursdays 4pm-5pm Play with OSMOs
Bellarine Presbyterian Church
Services Sunday 10am, Ocean Grove Senior Citizens’ Clubrooms, 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove.
Rev Brett Cummins, 0438 218 864, or secretary, Neil Mansfield, 0405 064 976
The Big Read Motivate and deepen your reading, focused reading of classics - books that have stood the test of time beginning with George Eliot’s ‘Middlemarch’ (free to download). Meets every other Wednesday from February 5, 10.30am-noon, Ocean Grove Senior Citizens’ Club, 101 The Terrace.
Paul, 0425 110 792
Drysdale Bowling & Croquet Club, Clifton Springs Road, Tuesdays from 10am for training, bring a friend.
0428 740 591
Barefoot bowls Point Lonsdale Bowls Club every Friday and Sunday evening during the holidays. Live music every second Sunday.
5258 1150
Live music
Bellarine Country Music Group meets Friday nights at Belmont Park Pavilion, music 7pm-10pm, $10 entry all welcome.
Ocean Grove Soft Tennis Friendly group of active women retirees who have played soft tennis for many years. The game is similar to Pickleball. Ocean Grove
Memorial Hall, 123 The Avenue, Mondays 1.30-3.30pm. No experience necessary. Just a desire to keep fit and have fun.
Megan, 0439 317 344
CWA Nightlights Ocean Grove
Meets first and third Monday of the month, 2.30pm, Seniors Club, 102 The Terrace, Ocean Grove. All welcome.
Kareen, 0419 246 346, or Janis, 5255 4585
Bellarine Women’s Workshop Portarlington Girl Guides Hall. Meets every second Thursday, and second Saturday of the month.
Facebook: Bellarine Women’s Workshop for further details
Book club
Leopold CAE book club meets second Tuesday each month from 6.30pm. Very friendly group. New members welcome.
Shirley, 0488 055 969
Chess clubs
For chess fun simply come along and see yourself, play some chess, meet some members, with no obligation to join.
We welcome players of all abilities.
Ocean Grove, Tuesdays at 1.30pm at 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove; Portarlington, Mondays at 9.30am, Parks Hall, 87 Newcombe Street, Portarlington; and St Leonards, Thursdays at 9.30am, unit 2 1375-1377 Murradoc Road, (on Blanche Street), St Leonards.
Ralph 0431-458 100 (Ocean Grove), Rob, 5259 2290 (Portarlington), Lyn, 5292 2162 (St Leonards)
Carpet bowls
Leopold Hall 805-809 Bellarine Highway, Leopold on Wednesday and Friday 1-3.15pm. Admission: $4 includes afternoon tea.
0400 500 402
Scottish country dancing classes
GOG Scottish Country Dance classes 7.30pm Tuesdays at Leopold Hill Hall, $5. No partner needed, just comfy casual clothing and flat shoes.
Jane, 0481 126 022, or Barbara, 0419 511 781
Ocean Grove Senior Citizens 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove Weekly
Tuesday: 1pm, snooker, chess, indoor bowls. Wednesday: 1.30pm, bingo. 2pm, ukulele class. 4pm, chord club jam session. Thursday: 1pm, craft & chat, snooker, cards 500, social afternoons. Friday: 9am, art classes, 1pm, cards 500.
Fortnightly
CWA 1st & 3rd Monday 2.30pm
Kareen, 0419 246 346, or Janis, 5255 4585
Book club, Wednesday 10.30am.
Paul, 0425 110 792 or Dianne, 5255 1372
TOWN club
The Springs TOWN Club (Take Off Weight Naturally) meets Mondays, 9-10.30am at the Community Hub, 23 Eversley Street, Drysdale. Weigh-in, group therapy and regular relaxation sessions. Cost: $5 per session, $54 annual fee.
Bev, 0421 636 830
Croquet
Out and about
Voice photographer Ivan Kemp was at Ocean Grove beach this Tuesday to see who was out enjoying April Fool’s Day.
1/ Maria Vilani with her daughter Natalie and Cooper. 2/ Andy and Lyn Nethercote. 3/ Lyn and Allan Evans from Echuca. 4/ Danielle Bertolini. 5/ Wayne and Natalie Robbins. 6/ Paul and Michelle Atkins. 7/ Mel Fisher with daughter Charlotte and Maxi. 8/ Molly Hargreaves and Remi Cooper. 9/ Marg Wilson. 10/ Lu Albrecht and Laura Polgar.
Maree and Rod Grant. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 468730
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Which Melbourne United basketballer was awarded the 2025 NBL Grand Final MVP?
2. And which Illawarra Hawks basketballer did he then give this award to?
3. Name the six NRL teams not named after animals.
4. After playing 298 games for the West Coast Eagles, Jack Darling played his 300th AFL game with which club?
5. Australian basketballer Georgia Amoore most recently played for which US college?
6. Australian basketballer Alex Condon most recently played for which US college?
Chris Finch most recently coached which NBA
In which two years did Lachie Neale win the Brownlow Medal?
Which Texas city will host the final of the 2025 NCAA Division I men's basketball tournament?
10. Which US professional sports league is the Toronto Tempo set to join in 2026?
11. Which Florida city will host the final of the 2025 NCAA Division I women's basketball tournament?
12. In Round 2, which AFL team temporarily reverted to their original name to celebrate their centenary?
13. Sydney Roosters hooker Brandon Smith has signed a contract with which NRL club for the 2026 season?
14. What three animals appear on A-League club Melbourne City’s logo?
15. Australian F1 driver Jack Doohan is the son of which motorcycling icon?
16. Which NFL team won the first ever Super Bowl?
17. What is the name of the Brisbane BBL team?
18. Which American Major League Cricket team did Pat Cummins sign to in 2024?
19. What is the newest NBL team?
20. What is WWE wrestler Seth Rollins' birth name?
21. In cricket, what is a yorker?
22. How many periods are there in a hockey game?
23. What is the name of South Sydney Rabbitohs’ costumed rabbit mascot?
24. The Buccaneers are an NFL team out of which city?
25. Which male tennis player won the US Open in 2003?
26. In which year did badminton become an Olympic sport?
27. Which state won the 2023 Sheffield Shield?
28. Which animal is in Premier League team Brentford’s logo?
ACCOUNTING SERVICES
RocheAccounting52562764
ANTENNAS
ArrowAntennas0439785703
KendallAntennaServices0404019781
AUTOMOTIVE
AutoCareOceanGrove(Repco)52551045 GardinerAutomotive52555380
BUILDING DESIGNERS
MichaelHigginsBuildingDesign52553355
BUTCHERS
Benno’sMeatingPlace52541828
CHIMNEY SWEEPS
A1ChimneySweep&Co0426897479
CONVEYANCING
VinesConveyancing52554480
29. Illyria is the name of a soccer-playing boarding school in which sports movie?
30. Before 2025, when was the last time the Illawarra Hawks won an NBL championship?
CLEANING AND LAUNDRY
AussieCleaning&Laundry0430215264
DENTAL
DrysdaleDentureServices RyanDavies52511683
OceanGroveDentureServices RyanDavies 52554533
ELECTRICIAN
GavinBurnettElectrical0467554941
Doohan
Be swift for the new Suzuki
By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring
It’s ironic that the Swift Sport Turbo is the oldest, unchanged model in the Suzuki lineup, but at the same time still manages to shine as the star of the lineup.
Yep. The third generation Sport dates back to the 2017 Frankfurt motor show, it’s still a great little performance package at a super affordable price, and proof positive of the old saying: if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
In June, 2020, Suzuki added a 48-volt mild hybrid to the car for the European market, but alas Australia never benefited from that update.
Styling
Dual exhausts, a sports bodykit and roof-mounted rear wing, together with the optional two-tone paint job transform the Swift Sport Turbo into a desirable little hatch.
There’s just the one model, priced from $32,990 driveaway. It’s available with a choice of six-speed manual or conventional six-speed auto. An auto adds $2000, metallic paint $595 or two-tone paintwork $1095, bringing the total price to $36,085 with the works.
Given the Sport has not moved on from the previous architecture and hasn’t been updated in a while, nor has it been mentioned indispatches,there’sagoodchanceitisliving on borrowed time.
So. If you have a hankering for one, get going and get one, or you could find the Sport slipping through your fingers.
Standard equipment includes cloth trim, single-zone climate air conditioning, tilt and reach adjust steering wheel, driver seat height adjust, D-shaped three-spoke sports steering wheel, keyless entry and start, electric folding mirrors, auto lights and mirror (but not the wipers), rear park sensors, driver info display. Oh, and somewhere along the line they added a digital speedo.
Swift Sport is covered by a five-year warranty.
Service intervals are pegged at 12 months or 10,000km.
Infotainment
Infotainment consists of an insect 7.0-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth, voice control, satnav, a reverse camera, wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plus six-speaker unbranded audio with MP3 compatibility. MP3s . . . remember them?
A small information display located between the two instrument dials provides trip, fuel consumption, distance to empty etc. You won’t find any USB-C ports in front, just a single USB-A port and a 12 volt outlet.
Safety
The current Swift attracts a measly single star safety rating from ANCAP, but it is unlikely this rating applies to the Sport.
The original rating, issued in 2017, has long since expired.
So, it was safe back then, but may not be as safe as competitors these days.
Safety encompasses six airbags, electronic stability control and advanced safety stuff such as auto emergency braking, lane departure warning, weaving alert, blind spot alert, rear cross traffic alert, high beam assist and adaptive cruise control.
Engines/transmissions
Sport is powered by a 1.4-litre turbocharged four cylinder petrol engine that produces 103kW of power at 5500 revs and 230Nm of torque, the latter between 2500 and 3000 revs.
It’s available with a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic (subject of our test), with steering wheel mounted gear change paddles.
With a 37-litre tank, fuel consumption is a claimed 6.1L/100km whether it is the auto or manual, and it takes 95 premium unleaded.
Driving
Althoughdescribedasafive-seat hatch, you’d be lucky to fit five in the Sport — let alone four. Rear legroom is limited.
The sports seats are a snug fit and the side bolsters make getting in and out more difficult than would normally be the case, not to mention pressing uncomfortably into my thighs.
The front seats are manually adjusted and trimmed in an attractive combo of cloth, with red stitching and Sport logos.
RATINGS
Looks: 8/10
Performance: 8/10
Safety: 8/10
Thirst: 8/10
Practicality: 8/10
Comfort: 7.5/10
Tech: 8/10
Value: 8/10
Overall: 7.9/10
There are two cup holders in the front between the seats, with room for larger bottles in the doors.
There is no centre console and no rear air vents, not that they’re really needed.
The dash features some coloured pieces of trim with a carbon-fibre like finish, but you’ll find it’s all hard plastic.
A flat-bottomed, leather trimmed sports wheel hides two, old-style analogue instrument dials that flank a central information panel.
Cycling through the panel brings up a series of graphics: clock, motion, torque and power, acceleration and braking graphs, and
one for turbo boost.
There’s also a digital speedo, which in a car like this is an absolute necessity.
Sport is push button start, but like other Suzukis, you need to be careful putting it into drive.
Dragging the transmission lever all the way back engages manual mode. The result is lots of revving, until you work out what is going on, but the tranny will eventually change up when the engine red lines.
Punching the accelerator produces a surprisingly fun, surprisingly engaging response, that is both tactile and audible.
Sport is not lightning quick, but it does make all the right noises and there’s enough there to get the blood pumping. The dash from 0-100km/h takes a sharpish 7.2 seconds and overtaking can be accomplished almost at will.
Suspension is MacPherson strut front and torsion beam with coil springs rear.
Steering is excellent and the brakes are aggressive, with a ride that is firm but not harsh. At the same time we did manage to find the bump stops a couple of times.
The tyres generate quite a bit of noise on coarse bitumen, but that’s par for the course with small cars where it’s harder to disguise. With 17-inch alloys and exey 195/45 Continentals, Sport sits securely on the road, turns in nicely and has plenty of mid-corner grip.
Push really hard and it will ultimately understeer, with some lift-off oversteer under hard application of brakes.
The turning circle by the way is crap and tight carparks can be a trial, even in a car this size.
Whether you opt for the auto or manual, fuel consumption is a claimed 6.1L/100km.
We were getting 6.9 from the tiny 37-litre tankaftersome727km(andittakespremium 95 RON unleaded).
The boot looks larger than before, but of course that’s because it doesn’t have to fit a spare – just a puncture repair kit.
Summing up
Suzuki Swift Sport Turbo is a bit old school, but that’s a good thing.
A small hatch, turbocharged four cylinder engine and manual gearbox provide the essential ingredients for some affordable driving fun.
Don’t let it slip through your fingers.
Suzuki Swift Sport Turbo is a bit old school, but that’s a good thing. (Pictures: Supplied)
Titans, Kookaburras claim flags
The Voice’s Justin Flynn was at RT Fuller Oval, Barwon Heads on Saturday March 22 for the Bellarine Peninsula Cricket Association A2 Grade grand final between Wallington and Inverleigh and at Collendina Recreation Reserve on Sunday March 23 for the A1 Grade decider between Armstrong Creek and Barwon Heads. Armstrong Creek and Inverleigh were crowned champions.
Will Collins saves a run.
Daniel Donaldson played superbly for the Heads, and right, Jack Maclean was superb for the Titans with five wickets.
Left: Daniel Maclean steadied the ship for Armstrong Creek. Centre: Jaxon Mallett dug in with the bat for Barwon Heads. Right: Lachlan Mulgrew got the vital wickets.
Jason Robertson bowled well early for Armstrong Creek.
Sven Burluraux gets behind the ball.
Left: Nick Adamson made a gritty 36 for Wallington. Centre: Max Melzer made a half-century for the Seagulls. Right: Brent McMinn is bowled by Jack Maclean. (Pictures: Jusin Flynn) 466935
Above: Locke Perrett was superb for Inverleigh, taking 1/14 from 13 overs. Below: Henry Collins picked up two key wickets.
Mulgrew ton propels Titans to flag
By Justin Flynn
Armstrong Creek opener Clay Mulgrew put on a batting masterclass to guide his club to its maiden Bellarine Peninsula Cricket Association A1 Grade premiership.
Mulgrew made chanceless 135 from 231 deliveries to take his season’s tally to an astonishing 869 runs as the Titans ended day one on 8/202 against Barwon Heads at Collendina.
It was pretty much a one-man show with Adam Trevean’s 21 the next highest score.
Heads’ skipper Daniel Donaldson sent down 32 overs of legspin, taking 4/70 in a superb performance.
Brent McMinn opened the bowling with his off-spinners after the withdrawal of paceman Darcy Hewitt due to a side strain.
McMinn took 1/57 from 20 tidy overs.
On day two, Titans’ left-arm seamer Jason Robertson barely bowled a bad ball. He went wicketless, but conceded just 13 runs from 12 overs with Seagull openers Max Melzer and Jaxon Mallett struggling to get the bowling away.
Melzer eventually found his groove and went to 51 from 106 balls, but pace bowler Lachlan Mulgrew struck after tea and then got rid of the dangerous McMinn for one with a pearler of a ball that clipped the top of off stump.
Mallett would go on to make a patient 46 from 171 balls, but became Jack Maclean’s first wicket of the day.
Matt High was promoted up the order, but didn’t last long, while Angus Ford was lbw for a duck.
Donaldson was now playing a lone hand, although Jacko Mallett (12 off 25) chipped in.
With 16 balls remaining, it was fitting that Lachlan Mulgrew took the final wicket. He finished with 3/42 from 16.5 overs while Maclean was superb with 5/64 from 20. Daniel Maclean was his usual tidy self conceding 45 from 17 overs.
Donaldson finished unbeaten on 51 with the Heads all out for 189.
Inverleigh earned promotion to A1 Grade next season with a rousing win against Wallington.
Wallington was sent in and found runs difficult to come by.
Nick Adamson dug in and played well for 36 from 96 balls, but missed a paddle sweep off leggie Henry Collins and was trapped in front.
Danny Midolo was bowling economically and Wallington needed a partnership.
Eventually it came in the form of Dane Wise-Graham (31) and Mitchell Sleeman (33) and they got the score up to 141 on a slow outfield at Barwon Heads.
Matthew Spiller, Midolo and Collins each took two wickets for the Kookaburras while Lock Perrett took 1/14 from 13 overs.
Inverleigh took its time to compile a winning score, but the runs were made in the 72nd over with six wickets to spare.
Runs to Lachie Platt (37), David Peel (36 not out) and Kieran McNally (25 not out) ensured Inverleigh’s demotion to A2 Grade lasted only one season.
Barwon Heads prevailed in B1 Grade.
The Heads made 288 batting first with skipper Rob Mackie and Damian Clarke each making 54. Jason Borg chipped in with 39, Ande Santilli made 37 while Anthony Brown made 28 and youngster Dan Shaw contributed 27.
Oscar Crocker and Iva Priest each snared three wickets for the Sharks and Andrew Kent kept things from really getting away, conceding 57 from 21 overs.
At one stage it looked like Jan Juc could chase down the enormous total. Iain Lygo made a nice 78 from 110 balls, Finn Bilston scored 54 and Brad Roberts hit 42, but player of the match Borg stepped in to take four wickets, as did Charlie Cox, and the Seagulls were home by 69 runs.
BPCA Grand Finals
A1 Grade
Armstrong Creek 8/202 (C. Mulgrew 135, A. Trevean 21, D. Donaldson 4/70) def Barwon Heads 189 (M. Melzer 51, D. Donaldson 51 no, Jaxon Mallett 46, J. Maclean 5/54, L. Mulgrew 3/42)
A2 Grade
Inverleigh 4/142 (D. Peel 54 no, L. Platt 37, W. Collins 19) def Wallington 141 (N. Adamson 36, M. Sleeman 33, D. Wise-Graham 31, H. Collins 2/18, M. Spiller 2/23, D. Midolo 2/37)
B1 Grade
Barwon Heads 288 (R. Mackie 54, D. Clarke 54, J. Borg 39, A. Santilli 37, A. Brown 29, D. Shaw 28, O. Crocker 3/28, I. Priest 3/60) def Jan Juc 219 (I. Lygo 78, F. Bilston 54, B. Roberts 42, C. Cox 4/38, J. Borg 4/72) C1 Grade
Collendina 145 (A. Foard 66, O. Terhorst 33, M. Warton 4/48, C. Bishop 3/44) def Inverleigh 125 (L. Hazlewood 39 no, C. Bishop 32, D. Britt 3/29, O. Irwin 3/31, Z. Muir 3/37) C2 Grade
Armstrong Creek 1/63 (N. Johnson 36 no) def Barwon Heads 60 (J. Perry 13, J. Hills 4/25, R. Kalathur 3/24) D Grade
Winchelsea 132 (C. Primmer 25, M. Tench 23, J. Stephenson 21, M. Shipsides 3/9, S. Tattersall 3/21, A. Naseer 2/17) def Wallington 80 (C. Jackson 21, L. Lenehan 3/16, D. Hampshire 3/17)
Collendina won a low-scoring affair in C1 Grade against Inverleigh.
The Cobras were in massive trouble, but opener Aidan Foard (66) and Ollie Terhorst (33) put together a partnership that eventually got the Snakes up to 145 all out.
ZacMuir,DeanBrittandOscarOrwinthen each took three wickets to have Inverleigh all out for 125.
Armstrong Creek demolished Barwon Heads in C2 Grade.
The Heads were all out for just 60 as Jarrad Hills (4/25) and Ravi Kalathur (3/24) doing the damage.
In reply, the Titans lost just one wicket with Nic Johnson not out on 36 and the game was all over on day one. Winchelsea claimed the D Grade flag with a win against Wallington. Spencer Tattersall and Matt Shipsides each took three wickets for Wallington as Winch was dismissed for 132.
The Wallabies then crumbled to be all out for 80 with Chris Jackson (21) top scoring.
Armstrong Creek won the A1 Grade premiership. (Armstrong Creek CC)
Collendina’s C1 Grade premiership team. (Collendina CC)
Night tennis is back again
LOCAL TENNIS
Donna Schoenmaekers
With Saturday Summer Pennant now complete, focus within Tennis Geelong turns to night competitions and Tuesday Women’s where, at Round 9, teams are starting to positionthemselvesforfinalsandthiscouldn’t be more obvious than in Section 1.
Last week saw six of the seven teams change ladder position at the halfway mark of the season, with only 12 points between first and sixth there is plenty for all teams to play for. It was a week for the away teams, with none of the three home teams managing to take advantage of their home courts while Ocean Grove had the bye.
Surfcoast Torquay levelled the points tally with Barwon Heads last week but put themselves into first on percentage with a 4-2 win over Winchelsea. Torquay produced a strongwinoverMoriacthisweek,spearheaded by Jayne Steel winning her three sets, so they keep top spot for at least another week.
Barwon Heads didn’t lose any ground in second with their win, accounting for Grovedale 5-1. The teams started with a 6-0 win each, but from there things tightened with the final two sets decided 7-5, 7-6, the Heads Kahlee Rennes and Kellie Burbridge
winning three sets for the day.
GeelongLawnpushedthemselvesfromsixth to fourth this week, overcoming Winchelsea four sets to two. The match opened with Anna McGennisken and Allison Blake taking the first set for Winch 6-4 while Jacqui McGrath and Jill Pavia had a more convincing win 6-0. Lawn won the third and fourth sets 6-4, and McGrathteamingwithKarenBestinthesixth won her third set for the day to clinch the win.
Next week will see Barwon Heads with the bye, Geelong Lawn have a good chance to move further up the ladder when they face seventh placed Ocean Grove, and Grovedale, only two points ahead of them, play ladder leaders Surfcoast Torquay.
AstrongwintoeitherMoriacorWinchelsea in their tie could see them also decrease the margin on third, currently sitting three and five points behind respectively. There is still plenty of time for all teams to get themselves into the four, but every match will be crucial to give themselves the best chance of making it.
Junior season finishes with a bang
LOCAL TENNIS
Donna Schoenmaekers
Tennis Geelong’s Junior Pennant grand finals were played across the region with some fantastic tennis played.
Geelong Lawn had the most successful day with five wins in 6 Boys (6-0), 8 Boys (4-2), 9 Boys (4-2), Green Ball 4 (3-3 and only two games), and the guaranteed win in 1 Girls where their White team accounted for Green (4-2), with the difference coming with White winning both doubles.
Wandana Heights had seven teams participating, however, could only manage two wins, one over Geelong Lawn in 5 Boys (5-1) and Premier B (2-1) where after dropping the doubles to Grovedale Black, won both singles in straight sets to take the win.
Lara regrouped from their first-semi loss against Wandana Heights White in Green Ball 5 winning three singles, laying the foundation for their 4-2 win, in the club’s only final. Grovedalehadadaytheywouldratherforget playingsixfinals,butnotbeabletogetoverthe line in any.
OceanGrovetookthetitleinPremierAover
Grovedale with good wins in all sets, followed up with 4-2 wins in 1 Boys over Wandana and in 5 Girls over Highton.
Waurn Ponds made the most of their final in 2 Girls with Ocean Grove Sand. With no score below 6-4, the teams played 61 games with the Ponds prevailing 4-2.
Highton had a mixed day with two of their fiveteamswinningontheday.4Boyswonboth doubles to take the win 4-2, while 3 Boys lost the first two singles before levelling the match after the third and fourth singles. The doubles were split between the teams, leaving the final result three sets all with a one-game advantage to Highton.
Bannockburn had wins in all three outings. 7 Boys came from third to upset Surfcoast Jan Juc 4-2 including two tie-breaks, while 4 Girls eked out three tie-break singles wins in their 4-2 win over Wandana Heights. 11Boys had one of the closest matches with St Mary’s with the teams level on sets through the morning but the final result showed Banno ahead by four games.
St Mary’s proved more successful in their other two finals, with one of the better wins in 13Boys (6-0) over Grovedale, and Barwon Heads Blue pushed them to two tie-breaks in Green Ball 3 with the wins helping them over the line 4-2. Barwon Heads Blue fared better in Green Ball 1, proving too strong for Highton White, winning 6-0.
Western Heights were also multiple winners
with 2 Boys adding to
winning both
while
Anglers tough it out on waters
ON THE BITE
Peri Stavropoulos
Tough conditions have certainly made it difficult for anglers to sneak out for a fish.
The outer harbour offered a tasty mixed bag to anglers with whiting, flathead and calamari all holding in great numbers.
Some fishos have been finding all three species holding in the same area and able to target them on the same anchor.
Ideally anchored for whiting and drifting for the squid and flathead. The 4 to 6 metre zone is proving to be ideal for the whiting and flathead and 2 to 4 metres for the calamari.
Natural coloured jigs have been the pic of colours as of late.
St Leonards remains a standout location again this week for King George whiting with anglers still getting amongst great numbers of fish. The area known as Bourke Street again remains the pic of locations to fish however they do seem to be well spread out across the area.
Offshore has still got some great fishing on offer (when weather has permitted) for kings, mako sharks and tuna. Kings are still lurking in close off Point Lonsdale and out of the wrecks in a bit deeper. Livebaits, poppers and jigs have all been accounting for plenty of fish.
Tuna are still in good numbers right across the coast just cruising on the surface. Anglers showing persistence have been finding success with poppers and stick baits worked slowly on top of their heads. Makos have still been hanging around out deeper to those putting out a solid burley trail with plenty of sharks coming up for a sniff. Makos have been around the 50kg mark with plenty of bottom fish action to keep you amused until they come about.
The Barwon River has been offering somegreatlocalfishingthisweekwith estuary perch and redfin on the chew. Small soft plastics have been working very well with the aid of a Jigspinner for extra vibration and flash in the water. The jig spinner offers a bigger profile appealing to larger fish such as bass and yellowbelly.
Peri Stavropoulos with a kingfish.
Grovedale’s woes
doubles to seal the match 4-2,
10 Boys only dropped the first singles in their 5-1 win over Ocean Grove. Inverleigh matched sets with Wandana Heights in 5 Girls with close sets, including
three tie-breaks, the match eventually going to Inverleigh five games ahead with sets at three all. There were two tie-breaks in Inverleigh’s other final against Surfcoast Torquay in Green Ball 2, however things didn’t go quite the same way, with Surfcoast eventual winners 4-2.
SJ3Boys Highton: Heath Agustsson, Ramsay Van Elst, Thomas Harman, Siddarth Sivanesan, Andre Ficca.
SJ8Boys Geelong Lawn: Oliver Chudoschnik, Joshua Wang, George Montgomery, Sebastian McGowan, Noah Williams.
SJ1Girls Geelong Lawn: Frankie Moxham, Aria Williamson, Scarlett Anderson, Zoe Loftus, Esme Lahery. Absent: Elsa Grgic.
SJGB4 Geelong Lawn: Tim Hutton, Zack McLaren, Martin Carrington, Jesse Grills, Henry Montgomery.
Geelong Lawn’s Georgie Parker and Karen Best.
Reigning champs ready to go
By Justin Flynn
Ocean Grove begins its Bellarine Netball League A Grade premiership defence with some new, and old, faces.
The Grubbers begin the season with an away clash against Modewarre and although the roster has been turned over, it still smacks of quality.
Amanda O’Malley needs no introduction for BNL followers, being a star player for Werribee Centrals for a long time. She has relocated to Ocean Grove and will add experience and class.
Best on court in the 2023 premiership
Ashton O’Brien returns after a year off and Gemma Bell is back. Bell was runner-up in the C Grade league best and fairest in 2022, progressed to B Grade in 2023 and spent last season in A Grade at Otway Districts.
Coach Mel Holmes said Bell had been “impressive” during preseason and would rotate through wing defence and goal defence.
“She’s very coachable, she has a lot of grunt, she’s fit, she’s determined,” she said.
“She just brings something exciting to our group.”
Holmes said O’Malley would slot in seamlessly.
“She’s been amazing,” she said. “We’ve welcomed her into our team and look forward to having her experience down that end.”
O’Brien’s return is a huge boost while Holmes said star defender Georgia Berry is the fittest she has been.
“Ashton can play across a variety of positions,” she said.
“Her and Amanda (O’Malley) are combining beautifully and I can also swing
her in the goals, so I’ve got lots of versatility.
“She (Berry) is so fit. She’s been doing half-marathons and running.”
Ocean Grove won both practice matches, beating Geelong Netball League side Leopold and Geelong & District Netball League reigning premiers East Geelong.
Missing from the line-up this season will be JessLeader(distanceandworkcommitments), Rhiannon Whitson (relocated for work), Kim Hart (Barwon Heads) and Rebecca O’Neill (retired).
Holmes said a road trip to start the season against Moddewarre was a challenge.
“At this point I’m not sure what to expect from Moddewarre, but it’s always a good contest,” she said.
“They always put up a good fight. We’re just excited to start. We’re strong across the grades.”
Grubbers ready for round one as hopes build
By Justin Flynn
While Ocean Grove has recruited well for the upcoming Bellarine Football League season, it required a ‘buy-in’ from those players that went deeper than just playing.
AstheGrubberspreparetotackleModewarre in the opening round this Saturday, coach Dave Farrell said playing footy wasn’t the only requirementforthenewcomersthispreseason.
“Wehavebroughtinafewplayerswithsome experience at higher levels and the biggest positive we have seen from this so far is their level of buy-in,” he said.
“I think some clubs use the coastal, relaxed vibe of the competition to attract players wanting to scale back their commitment to football at different stages of their careers. Our recent results and the huge depth of young developing talent doesn’t suit this approach.
“Weneedournewplayerssettinganexample and sharing their experience to support the development of our younger players and program which they’ve been terrific with so far.”
Farrell said the youthful squad had brought “energy” to the playing group.
“Our whole group of graduating under 18s has brought energy and are already creating pressure on some of our more experienced players for spots,” he said.
“Wehave15playersfromlastyear’sunder18 squad on our senior list and are really looking forward to seeing them develop throughout the year.
Ocean Grove played four practice matches in what Farrell described as a “different approach”.
“The first two we mixed our squads to play two even sides and spread experience across the group and support our first-year players still learning how we want to play,” he said.
“The third and fourth we played a more
traditional noon/2pm split but rotated a lot of guys through. While it’s made the selectors’ job really tough, it has given us plenty of confidence in the depth of our list moving forward.”
Farrell wouldn’t be drawn on labelling what success would look like for the Grubbers this season.
“We’re constantly reviewing our program and making little tweaks to how we can better support our playing group,” he said.
“These sessions in the back half of preseason have already highlighted some areas with our
attendances and training standards that have taken big steps. We’re really confident we are trending in the right direction but it looks like mostclubsintheoffseasonhavedonethesame which makes for an exciting season.
“We’ll continue to review at stages throughout the season with a focus on individual player development and maintainingthelevelofengagementwe’vehad to this point of the year.”
Travelling to Modda is a tough assignment atanytimeofyearandFarrellsaidtheopening round clash would give him an indication of
Round 1
Saturday April 5, 2.10pm
• Barwon Heads vs Portarlington at Apco Cafe 24/7 Oval, Barwon Heads
• Drydale vs Anglesea at Mortimer Oval, Drysdale
• Modewarre vs Ocean Grove at Community Bank Oval, Moriac
•
•
where his list is at.
“Our squads look quite different with theirs being some bigger bodies and loads of experience,” he said.
“They play their ground really well and it will be a great first up test for our group. Round one always comes with a big build up and can be weighted more than other rounds.
“Everyoneissuperexcitedandwe’rehopeful our performance gives us a really good base to build into the season from.”
See pages 14 and 15 for the full fixture.
Newcomb vs Queenscliff at PlasterCom Oval, Newcomb
Torquay vs Geelong Amateur at McCartney Oval, Torquay
Ocean Grove coach Dave Farrell.
Ocean Grove co-coach Nick Bourke will be important on and off the field.
Gemma Bell returns after a short stint with Otway Districts and is one to watch.
Best on court in the 2023 premiership win, Ashton O’Brien returns to the Grubbers this season.
