GRUBBERS GO4-0, PAGE 27
Honouring the Anzacs
Scouts Zeni, James and Alfie (pictured) were among those who paid their respects to our fallen Diggers on Anzac Day.
Ocean Grove Barwon Heads RSL sub-branch held a dawn service and a march and mid-morning service at Ocean Grove Park.
The march and service was attended by hundreds who turned out to pay their respects.
One attendee, 100-year-old WWII veteran Roy Porter, was there and was recognised for his service and for his birthday milestone.
Community members and organisations laid wreaths at the cenotaph during the morning service. Services across the Bellarine Peninsula were held in Drysdale, Barwon Heads, Portarlington, St Leonards, Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale. It was 110 years ago (1915) that our brave ANZAC sons landed at Gallipoli in an event that has gone onto shape Australia and its people.
For more pictures, see pages 20 and 21.
Coker tipped for third term
As we head to a federal election tomorrow, early polls suggest Labor’s Libby Coker will retain the seat of Corangamite for a third term.
Online polling site YouGov has Labor retaining the seat in a two-party preferred poll with 57.5 per cent compared to Darcy Dunstan’s Liberals at 42.5 per cent with just a 0.1 percent swing to the Coalition.
Ms Coker leads the site’s primary vote poll with 38.1 per cent while Mr Dunstan is at 30.2 per cent.
The Greens’ Mitch Pope has 14.3 per cent of the primary voting with One Nation’s Colin Seabrook at 5.9 percent and Independent Kate Lockhart at 5 per cent.
The funding pledged to the region by the
two major parties is skewed in Labor’s favour, with Ms Coker announcing about $80 million worth of projects in the region compared to Mr Dunstan’s $25 million.
However, the lion’s share of the funding announced by Ms Coker relates to the Barwon Heads Road upgrades, with a successful Labor government spending nearly $70 million for stage two of the project.
Both Labor and the Coalition have pledged $5 million for Ocean Grove’s Devlins Road sports precinct masterplan and $5.45 million for an upgrade to Drysdale Recreation Reserve.
The Libs said they would spend $1.3 million on improved mobile phone coverage for Drysdale and Curlewis, as well
as Armstrong Creek.
A Peter Dutton elected government would also allocate $3.5 million for local charity Feed Me Bellarine.
Historically a conservative stronghold, Corangamite was held by the Liberal Party from 1945 to 2007 and again from 2013 to 2019 until Ms Coker ousted Sarah Henderson from the seat.
IfMsCokermanagestoseeoffMrDunstan’s challenge she will be the first Labor MP to hold Corangamite for three terms.
Polling places are open between 8am and 6pm on Saturday, May 3. Visit aec.gov.au/ voting/ways_to_vote to find your nearest polling place.
Corangamite incumbent
prime minister Anthony Albanese in Drysdale. (Ivan Kemp) 469336_12
Libby Coker with
Morning tea
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Budget funding for lost veterans
By Jena Carr
Honouring veterans with a final resting place is a key commitment under the Borough of Queenscliffe’s draft budget.
The borough decided to open its Draft 2025-26 Budget and Draft Revenue and Rating Plan, featuring a three per cent rate increase, during its Wednesday, April 30, council meeting.
Council also decided during its meeting to allocate $17,000 within the draft budget to the Headstone Project, which looks to locate veterans lying in unmarked graves and provide
them a final resting place.
Councillor Isabelle Tolhurst said the allocated funds would be contributed to about 50 per cent of the remaining headstones expectedtobecompletedatQueenscliff–Point Lonsdale Cemetery.
“That includes adding concrete plinths and bronze plaques commemorating the soldiers who served during or before World War One, and this is a pilot project in Victoria,” she said.
“Thisisareallyexcitingopportunitytoagain put Queenscliff on the map for a great project that celebrates our military history and fallen soldiers who’ve, to date, gone unrecognised.”
The borough will also commit $100,000 to Hesse Street activation initiatives and $30,000 to a Wayfinding Signage Strategy alongside other proposed projects within the draft budget.
Cr Tolhurst said the draft budget outlined resources needed to deliver a wide range of council services provided to the community over the year.
“There’s healthy capital expenditure, a focus on improving caravan parks and recreation facilities, and increasing solar on council buildings,” she said. “(The draft budget) is evidence that our little borough can and does
Painting colourful stories of place
Local artist Wayne Elliott’s 40-year creative journey has led him to many places across Australia and the globe.
He has recently been gaining recognition, winning the Flanagan Art Prize Panel Award last month in Ballarat and being named a finalist in a number of international naive painting awards.
But one thing Elliott has learned over the years is that the final product is rarely the important thing.
“I think there’s an innate thing inside you that wants to create a story, or a response to a feeling,” he said.
“And when you first go in, you want to paint a painting, right? But the reality is, the most important thing is all the process behind that; physically walking through a landscape, taking photos, doing mini sketches and then bringing that to the canvas.
“That’sthemostfun,that’sthebestpartofit, because it’s really a problem-solving exercise. I’ve always pushed this value for young people being involved in the arts, because it sort of tricks your brain into thinking about things.”
Elliott paints stories, with his latest exhibitionfocusingontheurbanenvironment.
From Geelong to Melbourne, Montreal to
Krakow, he captures his subjective experience of traversing a place.
“Mine’s not a perfect, exact representation of what is,” he said.
“It’s about catching the essence of what’s there. Everyone will walk through a landscape and see something different… this is my interpretation.”
In ‘Urban’, which runs from May 2 to 25, Elliott’s works are joined by those of Melbourne ceramicist Ian Hodge at The Hive Gallery.
Matt Hewson
manage its finances soundly and sustainably, while delivering outcomes and responding to community need.”
The borough would maintain a debt-free balancesheetwithnooutstandingornewloans included within the budget, with a forecasted breakeven underlying result.
Thebudgetalsofoundthatfairmarketvalues of properties across the borough declined by 7.1 per cent, except for commercial properties, which increased by 2.4 per cent.
Community members can share feedback on the draft budget by writing to info@ queenscliffe.vic.gov.au until 4pm on May 22.
FEM program helps brigade
Queenscliff Fire Brigade will continue to offer equipment maintenance across the region,withfundsgoingtowardshelping protect the community from fire.
The brigade reignited its Fire Equipment Maintenance (FEM) services lastyearforbusinessesacrossQueenscliff and Point Lonsdale, with maintenance fees invested back into the brigade.
QueenscliffFireBrigadefirstlieutenant Paul Hicks said FEM services were an important fire prevention activity and income source for many Country Fire Authority brigades.
“For us, the benefits of providing FEM servicesinourcommunityarethree-fold: fundraising, community engagement and situational awareness,” he said.
“Providing the service strengthens our ties with the community socially and economically... and it also provides us withasolideconomicbasetofinanceany future needs.”
Mr Hicks said funds earned through theservicehelpedupgradeorsupplement the brigade’s firefighting equipment.
“By visiting local businesses and facilities, we gain valuable insight into each location, its fire protection systems and potential hazards,” he said. “Every dollar we raise through FEM or donated by the community is invested back into the brigade to deliver the best outcome for members and our community.
Brigades use FEM revenue to fund equipment, vehicles, tools, building works, training, cultural activities and supplements applications under the Volunteer Emergency Services Equipment Program.
Local artist Wayne Elliott. (Ivan Kemp)
Asthma clusters across Geelong
By Jena Carr
Geelong, Bellarine, and Surf Coast kids are more likely to have asthma than children in other parts of the country, according to new research.
A University of New South Wales (UNSW) study identified Geelong and its surrounding areas as an asthma cluster and recorded a higher than the national average of children up to 14 years old with asthma at 6.3 per cent. Childhood asthma prevalence was the highest in the Newcomb-Moolap area, at 10.10 per cent, followed by Bannockburn at 8.87 per
cent, Norlane at 8.75 per cent and Lara at 8.65 per cent.
Geelong mother Millie Durst’s children Ryder, 13, and Lottie, 5, were both diagnosed with asthma and had been in and out of hospital since they were young.
“Ryder had his first hospital admission at 10 monthsold,andmyknowledgeofasthmagrew while Ryder was at hospital,” Ms Durst said.
“At one of Ryder’s asthma appointments, the doctor could hear Lottie wheezing and suspected she had asthma. She was diagnosed at six months old.
“Lottie is currently on immunotherapy
Kardinia Park set to star
Kardinia Park is coming to the big screen with a new major film production set to touchdown in the region.
TheparkwillbetransformedintoaNational FootballLeaguestadiumforthe‘UntitledJohn TuggleProject’,afilmabouttheheartwarming story of an underdog American footballer.
Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks said the production would help shine a worldwide spotlight on Geelong’s sporting community.
“This project continues the winning streak for our local screen industry, showcasing both our creative capability and our world class sporting facilities,” he said. “It’s exciting to see another major international production coming to life in Victoria, creating hundreds of jobs and delivering economic impact in Melbourne and regional Victoria.”
SkydanceSportswillproducethefilm,which willhelpcreate825jobsforscreenworkersand
extras across the state while injecting close to $29 million into the Victorian economy.
Physicalproductionexecutivevicepresident Brad Carlson said the film would star David Corenswet (Superman), Michael Shannon (Nocturnal Animals, Shape of Water) and Isabel May (1883, Masters of Air, I Want You Back).
“We are thrilled to be making this film in Victoria with its first-class crews and screen infrastructure,” he said.
“The state’s amazing sports facilities and varied locations can double locations like New York, California and Mexico, so we knew there was no better place to bring this project to life.”
Geelong’s Kardinia Park will be transformed into a NFL stadium in a new film about an American footballer. (Supplied)
which is pretty much unexplored for children under six... and we started treatment, which includes fortnightly injections, in December.”
Ms Durst said her advice for parents who might be going through a similar situation to what she went through was to “really advocate for your kids”.
“There have been times when I’ve felt dismissedbydoctorsandhadtoaskforanother doctor or perspective,” she said.
“It is a really challenging road for families, especially those who have no family history of asthma... Parents also need to be mindful of asthma first aid.”
Asthma Australia chief executive Kate Miranda said she was asking political parties to support the organisation’s Healthy Futures for Kids with Asthma Program following the UNSW study’s findings.
“Our program is designed to meet this need of helping families manage asthma more effectively and keeping kids out of hospital,” she said.
“Many neighbouring areas in Geelong have a higher proportion of children living with asthma compared to the national average, which increases demand and cost on the healthcare system.”
Are your kids living in a world revolving around their passions? That’s a good thing.
It’s why the VCE’s new Vocational Major creates worlds where passions can be explored.
From agriculture to construction, health to clean energy. Whatever world our kids are into, there’s a VCE program to help develop the skills they’ll need to land a job in Australia’s most in-demand industries.
Voice readers to the bird rescue
I haven’t been out and about much over the past few weeks, so I’m grateful to Voice readers who have sent me some of their observations.
I’ve seen two interesting birds recently, but didn’t have my camera on me.
I spotted a buff-banded rail near the small pond behind the Woolworths on Shell Road. The rail was walking on the grass, and when it saw me it scurried into some vegetation, and was so well camouflaged I didn’t see it again. These birds are so beautiful with the black and white stripey underparts, brown upper parts and the distinctive chestnut band across the breast area. The other interesting bird I saw was a willie wagtail in my bird bath, as this was the first of this common species I had seen in my garden.
I received a message from Leo, who spotted twopairsofhoodedploversat13thBeachnear the Bluff. This time of year, hooded plovers can still be seen around their established habitats, but when winter sets in they tend to flock, so it’s not uncommon to see around 10 to 15 hoodies on the beach during winter.
I received an email from Lyn, who has had for the past few weeks, the pleasure of some
little corellas feeding in the red-berried tree on her Ocean Grove nature strip. Lyn told me that anything from four to 20 corellas have been visiting the tree in the afternoon.
I received an email from Alan who was fortunate to see and photograph a flame robin
on April 8 at Point Richards. He spotted the robin as he was driving along the gravel road near the boat ramp. It was on the side of the road in the grass consuming a bug. He also saw another flame robin on the Ocean Grove golf course, as he was teeing
off on the fourth hole. Alan didn’t have his camera on him but plans to take it with him when he next has a round of golf. Alan said that the flame robin was the only birdie he achieved on the golf course on that day. On the subject of flame robins, I received an email from Kathy from St Leonards. Kathy lives near the boat ramp, and she spotted a flame robin on a fence. This may have been the same bird that Alan saw.
I received a message from Robin Spry, who has a property near Lake Victoria. Robin told me that she spotted seven musk ducks near a raft of hoary-headed grebes and silver gulls on the lake. Robin’s bird list of species that she has seen on her property is now up to a whopping 109.
I received an email from Gerald who heard a clicking sound coming from a banksia tree on Bramwell St near Lorikeet Close, Ocean Grove. When he went closer to see what was making the sound he noticed a well camouflaged flock of about 30 yellow-tailed black cockatoos that were feeding in the banksia. After a few moments they flew to a nearby pine tree, carrying banksia cones. That’s a lovely number of black cockatoos, thanks so much Gerald. Alan informed me that he saw a flock of around 40 yellow-tailed black cockatoos at Barwon Heads, including one bird that had unusual plumage markings. This bird has a genetic mutation called leucism, where the feather colour is atypical. Alan has also been photographing a pair of wedge-tailed eagles that have been hanging around a friend’s farm in Portarlington.
New tastes, sights and sounds at Celtic festival
Portarlington’s National Celtic Folk Festival (NCFF) is set to reach new heights this June, withaseriesofnewallianceswithorganisations around Australia and the world.
The festival, held from June 6 to 9, revealed lastweekitwouldpartnerwithCultureIreland, renowned Irish chef Declan McGovern, the Heavy Games National Championship and a range of local producers.
Thenewpartnerswilljoinregularattractions suchastheStAylesSkiffScottishwoodenboats, Highland cattle, Irish hurling and more than 30 musical artists to deliver a richer palette of experiences for festival goers than ever before.
Through Culture Ireland, the Emerald Isle’s peak culture and arts promotion body, the NCFF will present groundbreaking Gaelic music producer and singer Caoimhín, singer-songwriter Gráinne Hunt, whiz kids Tulua and energetic folk band Boxing Banjo to Australian audiences for the very first time.
Chef McGovern, who focuses on traditional
Irish cuisine, local produce and sustainability, will hold tasty workshops and informative masterclasses throughout the weekend.
NCFF director Una McAlinden said while the partnerships were a significant development, the festival was focused on retaining its community feel and getting better rather than bigger.
“For us, it’s all about the connection to culture and people,” Ms McAlinden said.
“We are about the community, supporting people and groups that are passionate about cultural endeavours… and putting a spotlight on the region.
“The unique thing about our event is that it is for all people, all ages… it appeals to young children, up to the older generation in families. It creates this real sense of belonging amongst everyone.”
Visit nationalcelticfestival.com/artists for tickets and more information.
Exhibition showcases painting with paper
Queenscliff will showcase the extensive world ofcollages,withapopularexhibitionreturning to the region on Saturday.
Queenscliff Neighbourhood House Gallery will host the works of 13 Bellarine artists at its annual Collage Collation exhibition from May 3 to June 1.
Curator and artist Anita Armytage said she was excited to highlight the work of collage artists, with some exhibiting their work for the first time.
“There’s a variety of approaches to collage and not everyone does it in the same way... You canmakeitassimpleorascomplexasyouwant it to be,” she said.
“Some people paint their own paper, so with watercolour or acrylic, and then cut or tear the pieces to make their images and others, like me, use glossy magazines.
“Something that appeals to me is that they’re being reused instead of going into landfill, so it’s a good way of using up things already in circulation instead of tossing them.
“It’s really like painting with paper. I find it challenging, but it’s also really fun to do and if you don’t like a part of what you’ve done with the artwork, you can just keep going over the top of it.”
Ms Armytage said she looked forward to seeing the exhibition presented to the public and receiving feedback.
The exhibition will also feature works by Jocelyn Adam, Chris Bubb,
Matt Hewson Irish chef Declan McGovern will feature at this year’s National Celtic Folk Festival in Portarlington.
Bronwen Daddo, Cathryn Ferencz, Penny Hole, Janet Leckie, Annie Macpherson, Jamie Mavromihalis, Anne McMahon, Julie Morgan, Tina Price and Sue Reilly.
Jena Carr
Queenscliff Neighborhood House Gallery curator and artist Anita Armytage with one of her collage artworks. (Ivan Kemp) 474325_04
Above and top right: Alan’s flame robin at Point Richards, and yellow-tailed black cockatoo at Barwon Heads. Right: Robin’s silver gulls and hoary-headed grebes at Lake Victoria.
Do you know how to make your vote count?
Federal election, Saturday 3 May 2025
It’s important that you understand how to vote correctly.
On election day you need to complete two ballot papers:
• a green one for the House of Representatives
• a large white one for the Senate.
On the green ballot paper you are voting for a representative of your local area or electorate in the House of Representatives.
On the white ballot paper you are voting for representatives of your state or territory in the Senate.
Don’t worry if you make a mistake. Just ask for another ballot paper and start again.
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Action for Rainbow Plan
By Cr Elise Wilkinson
Councilisseekingyourinputtohelpshapetwo pieces of very important work supporting our youth and LGBTQIA+ communities.
We endorsed our Rainbow Action Plan for community engagement at our April council meeting and I am proud that this draft will soon be available for your feedback.
The Rainbow Action Plan provides a four-year roadmap for council to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for the LGBTQIA+ community.
Itcomprises18actionsoverthecomingyears to support four key principles: understanding, inclusion, visibility and safety.
Community engagement was conducted last year to shape the proposed plan and identify the unique challenges and barriers that are often overlooked by general policy and inclusion efforts.
This engagement highlighted the significant physical safety concerns experienced by the LGBTQIA+ community in Geelong.
Italsofoundthatthecommunityexperienced a lack of cultural safety in our city, citing a lack of inclusion and acceptance, as well as representation within the wider community.
Celebrating the diverse gender identities, sexual orientations and lived experiences of our entire population benefits everyone and is vital to the progress of our region.
Plans like this save lives. They help people feel like they can be their true, authentic selves and be recognised as a valuable part of our community.
More than 34,000 people in Greater Geelong identify as LGBTQIA+ so we all know somebody who identifies within this community.
I urge you to read the Rainbow Action Plan
It started with a tremor
Geelong will once again show its support for people living with Parkinson’s disease with the community coming together to raise awareness.
Fight Parkinson’s A Walk in the Park event will return to Geelong’s Eastern Park Circuit on Sunday, May 4, which was dedicated to improving the lives of people living with the chronic neurological condition.
Fight Parkinson’s chief executive Emma Collinsaidtheeventwasmorethanjustawalk; it was a community-driven movement helping raise awareness and funds for Parkinson’s disease.
“Together we can make sure Parkinson’s is better understood and resourced to ensure everyone gets the support they deserve,” she said.
“When the community is united, they can empower each other to make a difference. A Walk in the Park provides the perfect
andhaveyoursaywhenitbecomesavailableon May 17.
We want our community to feel safe wherever they are, and we particularly want to foster inclusion here in Geelong.
With this in mind, we are also seeking public engagement to address the needs of our younger population through the 2025 Geelong Youth Survey.
We would love to hear from young people, as well as those who work closely with youth in the region.
We also welcome the perspectives of parents, carers, those who work at education or tertiary institutions and other interested community members.
The survey asks participants to identify the main issues faced by young people in Greater Geelong today.
It asks participants to list their favourite activities and community events and identify any gaps that we could fill in our region.
Thisfeedbackisvitalforuswhen considering programs, advocacy and investment that reflect the needs of our younger population, so I urge you to share your thoughts.
To review the Geelong Youth Survey, visit yoursay. geelongaustralia.com.au
Engagement is now open until 11.59pm on Monday May 12.
The Rainbow Action Plan will also be available for community engagement on the Have Your Say website from May 17 to 31.
Amplitude Energy* plans to conduct gas development drilling and gas field development work near our existing subsea infrastructure and within our existing offshore Otway Basin licence areas, offshore Peterborough, Victoria. We call this the East Coast Supply Project (ECSP)
The Otway Basin has been producing gas for decades - we are planning to provide gas supply exclusively to the domestic market to help alleviate forecasted shortages As part of the ECSP, two environment plans (EPs) are being developed. The first EP is called ECSP: Annie-2 development drilling EP and is for the drilling of the Annie-2 development well. The second EP is called ECSP-Wells Connection EP and is for the connecting of wells to our existing subsea pipelines. All activities under these two EPs will be carried out in Commonwealth waters, over 9kms offshore from the coast.
Relevant persons consultation
opportunity for people to walk together and fight together.”
Geelong’s Sean Atkinson, 38, said he would be taking part in the event for his second time alongside his two young kids, following his own journey being diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s disease.
“About two and a half years ago, I noticed a tremorinmyrighthand...Itwasabitofashock to be diagnosed considering I was 36 years old with no family history,” he said.
“There’s a stigma around Parkinson’s disease and people not wanting to share their journeys, where they’re at, or whether they’ve got the disease,butIthinkthecommunityissostrong.
“I’ve got two young kids, and my biggest concern when I got diagnosed was whether it was hereditary and they would be impacted by it... but my type of Parkinson’s isn’t genetic, which is a great result.”
Jena Carr
If your functions, interests or activities may be affected by our proposed activities under the two EPs, then we invite you to consult with us. We consult with relevant persons to understand if you may have information that we might not otherwise be aware of which we can use to improve our environment plans
For more information about our proposed projects, please see our consultation page via the QR code, or at https://amplitudeenergy.com.au/consultation
The consultation process
For information about our offshore environment plans and the consultation process, including our obligations, please visit: https://amplitudeenergy.com.au/consultation/why-we-consult
Please contact us by May 31 2025 at stakeholder@amplitudeenergy.com.au or call 61 8 8100 4900 if you would like further information or to be consulted on these EPs.
Sean Atkinson was diagnosed with early-onset Parkinson’s disease over two years ago at age 36.
(Ivan Kemp) 474558_06
Connewarre ward councillor Elise Wilkinson. (Supplied)
Company provides fresh talent
By Matt Hewson
To many, the works of Shakespeare can seem archaic and inaccessible, using language, references, allusions and humour too far removed from the modern experience.
Geelong’s newest theatre company is seeking to change that perception, beginning with an ambitious inaugural production this month.
Overflow Theatre, a brand-new independent company focused on presenting reimagined versions of the Bard’s plays, will launch itself with its production of The Tragedy of Macbeth at Platform Arts this May 14 to 18.
Featuring a cast of both established professional performers and emerging acting talents, the troupe is led by Josh Monaghan (Macbeth) and Emma Langridge (Lady Macbeth).
Overflow’s take on the Scottish Play is an “intimate, authentic, grungy interpretation of Macbeth that will make you feel like you
A journey back in time
Iconic Aussie band the Choirboys have seen it all in their more than 40 years in the music industry, and this weekend they will spill the beans in Geelong.
Formed in 1978 Sydney, the Choirboys rockedandrolledtheirwaythroughthewildest era of Australia’s pub rock scene, both living through and hearing about the high times. Their show Run to Paradise: Great Rock ‘n’ Roll Stories is a retrospective of those times, presenting the Choirboys’ own hit material, selected songs from other Aus-rock artists and the candid retelling of life in the fast lane.
In the show, the Choirboys frontman Mark Gable recounts tales answering questions such as what happened to Iggy Pop’s pants, what
were Chuck Berry’s weird habits and which moviestarmettheDivinylsbassplayerundera table at a nightclub.
“They didn’t call it pub rock in those days, but we were there in the beginning and we’re still here now,” Gable said. “Put it down to hearsay – it’s our opinion, it’s what we saw, it’s what people told us and most of it is extremely funny and incredibly interesting.
“Some of the stories are so funny and just plain stupid because back then, we could do things that nobody else could do because it wasn’t a normal job. There were no rules.”
TheChoirboysareatGeelongArtsCentreon Saturday, May 3. Visit geelongartscentre.org.au for tickets and more information.
Jane Austen’s world on stage
JaneAustenwasborn250yearsago,withanew performance celebrating the life and works of the popular novelist near Geelong. TheatreoftheWingedUnicornwillbringThe Jane Austen Experience to Ceres Temperance Hall from Friday, May 2, transporting audiences into historic and classic settings.
Cast member Miriam Pohlenz said the performance featured scenes from five of Jane Austen’s well-known novels, including Emma, Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, Mansfield Park and Persuasion.
“A lot of people coming, will be familiar with Jane Austen, but we’re also hoping to attract others who aren’t as familiar with her work, and this is a real taster,” she said.
“How she describes unremarkable people in everyday situations and the tensions between the characters, it’s just so funny. She’s just so
haven’t seen the show before”, according to director Molly England.
“People can expect to be on the edge of their seats, horrified at the way that they connect themselves to the characters they see, and hopefully leaving the show feeling really introspective and contemplative,” England said.
“A lot of the time when we think about Shakespeare, we think about how traditional it is, and that’s one of the things I simultaneously love and despise about working with Shakespeare.
“There’s this sort of idea that you have to be an academic to understand these people in medieval costumes saying all these thees and thous. I really wanted to break down that stereotype and make it really accessible.
“It’s the same text that you would have
studied at school… we’ve not translated the words themselves, but translated the context in which they are said.”
The play is set in an alternate 1940s, leaning into the supernatural sense of the work to create a kind of adjacent reality.
English said Macbeth had an enduring and ongoing significance.
“The more we sit and study it, the more relevant it is to our political situation in Australia and across the world,” she said.
“These characters, their experiences and choices, and then the subsequent consequences… We think we’re so advanced but really, Shakespeare sort of captured us 400 years ago and we haven’t changed very much since.”
Visit overflowtheatrecompany.com.au for tickets and more information.
TheRegionalTourism Investment Fundis supporting innovative and new tourism investment projects across the Bellarine.
CongratulationstoBellarine BaysideandBarwonCoast who received funding to invest in their coastal caravan parks, creating more options for longer stays, especially over the off-peak season.
ScantheQR codetofind outmore
The Choirboys will take you on a journey back in time. (Supplied)
Josh Monaghan and Emma Langridge star in The Tragedy of Macbeth. (Glen Barton)
Miriam Wood, Melissa Musselwhite and Jocelyn Mackay will help bring The Jane Auste to life at Ceres Temperance Hall. (Ivan Kemp) 474277_07
Swish Beauty leads in clean, kind haircare
For 18 years Swish Beauty has been ahead of the times using Original Mineral ammonia and PPD free hair colours, while supporting local Leopold, Bellarine Peninsula and Geelong businesses and charities.
Swish Beauty are proud supporters of all products Australian made, O & M are Australian pioneers of clean, kind hair care. With the highest performing clean colour range for a healthier choice to both clients and hairdressers.
At Swish Beauty you can enjoy a relaxed experience while you have your colour, keratin smoothing treatment or a haircut and blow wave.
Our hairdressers are trained curly-hair specialists, determined to provide picture perfect results.
We use Australian made LOHY, specially curated to nourish your curly hair and deliver excellent results both in the salon and in-between visits.
Certified toxic-free ingredients, cruelty-free and vegan, LOHY is the Earth-conscious go to for your curly style.
Swish Beauty’s organic beauty products, organicspa, are also Australian made and owned.
They believe that “nature not only nurtures but holds the power to thriving, radiant and youthful skin”.
At Swish Beauty you will be pampered with kindness and care for a wide range of beauty services, including facial treatments, relaxation massage, brow laminations, eyelash lifting, facial tinting, facial and body waxing, spray tans, make up for all occasions, manicures, using standard or gel polish from Mitty (another Australian company) and you will relax while you have your pedicure in our shiatsu massage chairs.
In 2018 Swish Beauty became Leopold’s
first Sustainable salon, recycling 95 percent of their salon waste and diverting their waste from landfill.
Last year alone Swish Beauty collected 442kg of hair and 1469kg of plastics. All recyclable waste is repurposed into innovative products, such as ‘hair booms’ created using the hair from your trims and used to absorb oil spills from the ocean.
By choosing a Sustainable salon you’re helping cut salon waste for good.
Donating ponytails and helping those in need through charities like OzHarvest is just another step towards making the future brighter.
Client experience, upskilling and sustainability is so important to owner Rebekah, she decided to move the salon into a fresh new space in Leopold’s Dorothy Street shops, where they have settled in over the past
three years. Expanding was exactly what the salon needed, into a huge, fresh, bright space that the staff, clients and especially the plants all love.
Swish Beauty’s dedication to all things hair and beauty is reflected by the team’s love for their craft and the number of long-term staff members.
“Having been a beauty therapist for over 30 years now, and at Swish for 14 years, is testament to the wonderful environment Rebekah and Swish beauty encase,” head beauty therapist Carly says.
From humble beginnings to pioneers in salon sustainability and eco-friendly ammonia and PPD free products Swish beauty has been a mainstay in the Leopold salon scene.
Come celebrate 18 years with us and enjoy specials for the whole month of May.
Swish Beauty’s dedication to all things hair and beauty is reflected by the team’s love for their craft and the number of long-term staff members.
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, partial dentures, 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.
Denture Clinic has easy denture payment plans available through Afterpay and DentiCare.
Jason Demko with patient Eddie Fraser (right), and inside the clinic. (Ivan Kemp) 301850
CELEBRATING SENIORS
Treated with care and respect
No other service compares to the care and respect that Just Better Care’s staff provide to its clients.
Lyn Mulligan said she looked forward to seeinghercarerseachweekandhadbuiltsome lovely trusting relationships with the in-home aged care and disability support service’s “beautiful people”.
“Wesharestories,havealaughandeveryone I have met truly cares,” she said.
“They allow me to keep my independence, they are patient and just so helpful and caring. It means a lot to me, and I have confidence in them.
“Having the support of Just Better Care means security, and it means that I can stay in my own home.”
Lyn recently moved into a retirement village and states that she was “so happy” to be able to take her regular carers along with her to her new home.
“I wouldn’t have anyone else, I choose Just Better Care as I have grown to respect them and the wonderful care that they provide,” she 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.
Understanding Parkinson’s
Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive neurological condition typically diagnosed around the age of 65, though it can affect individuals of any age.
The disease is caused by insufficient production of the neurotransmitter dopamine in the brain, which disrupts the transmission of messages within the brain.
Thisdisruptioncanaffectvariousfunctions, including speech, movement control, cognition, mood, senses, and bodily functions such as bladder and bowel control.
Early signs of Parkinson’s Disease can be subtle and may include tremors, changes in handwriting, difficulty sleeping due to uncontrollable movements, difficulty walking or moving normally, constipation, changes in voice modulation, fainting or dizziness, slouching or stooped posture, unusual rigid facialexpressions,lossofordullsenseofsmell, weight loss, and psychological changes such as anxiety and depression.
It is important to recognise these early signs
for timely diagnosis and management of the disease.
Understanding the symptoms and their impact on daily life can help individuals seek appropriate medical advice and support.
Homestyle Aged Care is a proud sponsor of Walk in the Park Geelong. This community event provides an opportunity for people to show their support and to raise awareness and funds for Fight Parkinson’s which supports those living with Parkinson’s Disease.
TheeventwilltakeplaceonSundayMay4at Eastern Park Geelong.
Visit parkinsonswalkgeelong.com.au for more information and to register for the event. If you or your loved one are looking for care in Ocean Grove, Leopold or Grovedale, our admissions team can discuss your individual situation and advise on the many options available.
Call us on 1300 104 663 or visit homestyleagedcare.com.au
Homestyle Aged Care is a proud sponsor of Walk in the Park Geelong. (Supplied)
CELEBRATING SENIORS
Nuts support a healthy lifestyle in older Australians
Regular consumption of nuts is associated with maintaining a healthy lifespan, new research from a Monash University-led team has found.
Published in the Journal Age and Ageing, the researchers said the findings may help guide older individuals and their health professionals in making dietary choices that can support health in older age, including in those whose diet quality may not be optimal.
The study involved 9,916 adults aged over 70 years, who reported on their usual diet as part of the *ASPREE Longitudinal Study of Older Persons (ALSOP) sub-study.
Those who reported frequent consumption of nuts, including every day or several times a day, regardless of the type or form of nut, lived longer without dementia or persistent
disability, compared to those who never or infrequently consumed nuts.
First author Holly Wild, a PhD candidate and lecturer from the Monash University School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, said that nuts were a good source of protein, micronutrients, unsaturated fats, fibre and energy, but whole nuts can be difficult to eat for those with poor oral health or chewing difficulties.
“Our study was able to account for poor oral health and other foods that people usually ate, and after adjusting for these and other factors, eating nuts remained positively associated with a healthy lifespan in later life. Nuts can be a good choice for a snack or as part of a meal, even if your diet might not be optimal in other ways,” Ms Wild said.
“Ifyouarewantingtoincorporatemorenuts into your diet, nuts are available in multiple different forms in supermarkets these days, including whole nuts, chopped or crushed nuts, nuts meals, and nut butters or pastes. The latter options may be much more accessible to those with oral health issues, and chopped nuts can be added to salads, cereals and smoothies.
“However, we do recommend keeping salted nuts, and candied and chocolate covered nuts to a minimum.”
The current Australian Dietary Guidelines suggest that adults should be consuming 30 grams of nuts, which is equivalent to 1/3 of a cup or a small handful, or approximately two tablespoons of nut butter on most days of the week, though previous research has reported
that Australian adults over 65 years only average between 4-4.6 grams per day.
“What 30 grams of nuts looks like depends on the type of nut, but typically a ‘handful’ is equivalent to around 25 almonds, 10 walnuts or 40 peanuts,” Ms Wild said.
“Choosing a mixture of nuts means you get thebenefitsofthevaryingamountsofnutrients found in different types of nuts. Nuts taste best and have the highest nutritional content when fresh, so store in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to maintain freshness.
“Nuts are a great way to incorporate protein andnutrientsintoourdietinamoresustainable way. For this reason, nut consumption has been recommended by leading scientists as part of the Eat Lancet Commission report for planetary health.”
New 2 and 3-bedroom homes are now selling from $529,000** at Ingenia Lifestyle Lakeside Lara.
Secure your home before 30 June and receive $20,000 off the purchase price when you settle by 23 December 2025*
The Bellarine offers a seasonal symphony in a glass
As the crisp air and misty mornings of winter settle over Victoria’s coast, the Bellarine Peninsula transforms into a haven for wine lovers seeking comfort, warmth, and complexity in their glass. While this region is a drawcard year-round, winter offers a unique perspective - fewer crowds, cosy cellar doors, and red wines that come into their own as the temperatures drop.
A cool-climate wine region with character
The Bellarine Peninsula enjoys a cool maritime climate. This lends itself beautifully to varieties that benefit from slow ripening, resulting in wines with elegance, structure, and depthexactly what winter calls for.
While pinot noir and chardonnay are year-round heroes here, winter is the season to delve into the deeper reds and richer whites that local winemakers craft with finesse.
Winter reds: depth, spice and comfort
Pinot noir remains the Bellarine’s crown jewel even in winter. Its lighter body and vibrant acidity make it a perfect match for hearty, slow-cooked dishes and earthy winter flavors like mushrooms and game. Local expressions tendtobearomatic,withnotesofcherry,plum, and forest floor - complex and comforting.
Shiraz, though less dominant than in warmer regions, makes a striking winter impression on the Bellarine. Cool-climate shiraz(sometimeslabeledsyrah)hereiselegant and peppery, with lifted spice and dark fruit flavors - ideal for fireside sipping or pairing with roast meats.
Cabernetblends,particularlythosefeaturing merlot or malbec, are also gaining attention. These offer a robust alternative, with firm tannins and notes of blackcurrant, cedar, and tobacco that unfold beautifully in winter’s slower pace.
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
Full-bodied whites: rich and textural
While many associate white wine with summer, Bellarine Peninsula offers whites with the body and texture to stand up to the cold. Barrel-fermented chardonnays shine during winter, showcasing buttery textures, stone fruit, and subtle oak spice. These wines areanaturalpartnerforcreamydishes,roasted poultry, or seafood chowders.
Other standout whites include pinot gris and viognier, which can show impressive weight and a warming profile when vinified with care. Expect notes of baked pear, spice, and honeysuckle - a welcome brightness in winter’s grey.
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
Cellar door experiences: fireside tastings & coastal charm
Winter on the Bellarine is all about intimacy and atmosphere. Many cellar doors offer fireside tastings, mulled wine, and seasonal menus featuring local produce. Wineries like Jack Rabbit, Scotchmans Hill, and Oakdene combine beautiful architecture and panoramic
• 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
views with bold winter wine offerings. For those looking to make a weekend of it, the region’s boutique accommodations and cosy coastal towns like Queenscliff and Portarlington round out the perfect wine escape.
A final sip Winter on the Bellarine Peninsula is more than a season - it’s a mood, a slower rhythm, and a perfect backdrop for discovering wines that warm from the inside out. With its mix of coastal beauty, cool-climate elegance, and hospitality, the peninsula invites you to raise a glasstothecoldermonthsandsavoureverysip.
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
JACK RABBIT VINEYARD
Jack Rabbit is a great place to go during winter.
Oakdene produces some very nice winter reds.
Roy Mears wins second writing competition prize
on a charging steed.
When we hit the highway he stopped, stared straight ahead and asked, “Left or right?”
This was oursecond topic forthe year, with 18 storiesreceived.Thestorieswereentertaining and well written, and the winner was Roy Mears, who produced an outstanding piece of work. The prize was presented to him at Barwon Heads Hotel on Tuesday night. We hope you enjoy the story presented on this page.
Alan Cobham
Judges’ comments
We were immediately entranced by the likeable, mischievous Aussie larrikin taking chances, a characteristic that goes with him throughout the story. There are vivid descriptions of our local area and lively, amusing dialogue. We follow the story to its clever, moving conclusion, completing the cycle of chance.
Left or right
By Roy Mears
Robbo always backed the Kombi up the drive, so it was easier to get away in the morning. “No point wasting time. Adventure awaits,” he’d say. “There’s a whole world out there.” He’d take the fire track behind the town dam. I swear going up the hill, it would’ve been quicker to walk. At the top Robbo would let the Kombi slide, mostly sideways, whooping and yelling, his arms out the window, slapping the door like he was urging
Before I could get a word out, Robbo would take off. “Too late! My call. Missed your chance.” He was that kind of guy. I didn’t mind, only ever made a pretence of protesting before pushing in the eight-track and winding up the volume.
Left and we headed east, back through the tourist towns, Anglesea, Torquay, sometimes as far as Geelong. We never stopped in town, except to pick up supplies. In those days you had to bush bash to get to Bells. There were plenty of camping spots, if you were prepared to take a chance on a random track in the scrub.
Tied an old tarp off the roof racks and pegged it out for a crude tent. Fixed the tears with gaffa tape. Mostly kept the rain out. Sometimes we had to squat. We copped a spray when they found us in the lifesaving club at Lonnie. Wanted to know where we got the beer. Chased us right across the quarry. One day at Eastern Beach was a scorcher, sun was blazing. Even the blowies took the day off. Middle of the day, everyone in the water, Robbo spots the old playground slide, goes galloping up the ladder and screeching down the metal slide. Dry as a dead dingo’s donger. Tore the seat clean out of his togs. Raced through the crowd into the water to cool off, bare backside and all. Never laughed so much in my life.
If we went right, we headed west along the coast, but not before the tail end of the summer when the crowds would have gone. WewouldfindaspottostashtheKombiinthe bush and hike to where a small creek emptied onto the beach. Had it all to ourselves. We fished, sucked on a longneck, and skipped
Roy Mears
Ocean Grove author Roy Mears has a strong background in communication, first through membership of a children’s theatre group and now as a trainer in leadership and professional writing. His interest and expertise in short story writing has been recognised in the Peter Carey Short Story Competition, where his entry was highly commended. Roy is now working on a middle grade novel which explores the theme of communication.
half-naked and half-cut into the surf. Then we’d build a bonfire. Robbo would find a hollow log, trim both ends with his trusty Husqvarna, build up a solid base of
glowing coals, then upend the log on top. Before long, smoke would be pouring out of his makeshift chimney, the inside would catch alight, and heat would pump out in all directions. Kept us warm all night.
Sometimes, Robbo misjudged how long to cut it, would rip the chainsaw into action and, fully loaded, stumble around the fire, trip over himself and still cut a perfectly flat circle, neater than if he’d been working the machines at the mill.
Last trip we both ended up hoeing into the Big Brekkie, three kinds of burnt sausage, bacon, tomatoes, baked beans, and a couple of fried eggs with lashings of tomato sauce in the old pub at Skenes Creek. Halfway through, Robbo excused himself and headed to the loo. I’d never known him to do that before. He usually mopped up any remaining yolk and sauce with his last bit of toast. When he sat back down, he leant on the table too hard, bumped his cup, snatched at it, and threw the coffee all over me.
“Jeez, mate, you okay?”
“Yeah, mate. Just a bit tired.”
We sat in silence.
“Bit crook.” Robbo lifted his head, looked me square in the eyes. “A lot crook actually.” I waited.
“Even went to the doc. Reckons I need an op. Supposed to go in last week. But I’ll take me chances. Always have.”
I should have said something at the time. Now here I am. Back with Robbo for what is nearly a half century of road trips together. Back in the Kombi. Except this time, I’m driving and Robbo’s in the passenger seat. In the urn.
When I reach the highway I need to rest my head on the wheel, take a couple of deep breaths. I don’t know what to say, which way to turn. “Which way, mate? Left or right?”
750 words max.
Entries close Friday 6th June 2025.
Entries to barrysproull@gmail.com Winner notified by phone.
(Supplied)
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
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
Portarlington playgroup
Experience play in an unstructured, relaxed environment. Large indoor space with toilets and baby change facilities. Suits 0-4years. Free to attend. Wednesdays 10am-11.30am, Parks Hall Portarlington.
Portarlington community concert
Portarlington Neighbourhood House presents Newport Junction. Saturday May 31, 6-10pm, Parks Hall, Portarlington. $15 ticket.
Bookings, 5259 2290
Ocean Grove Library
Wednesday May 21, 10.45-11.30am, National Simultaneous Story Time
Wednesday May 21 to Wednesday June 4, Activity: What does reconciliation mean to me?
Wednesday May 21, 2pm-3pm, book chat Wednesday May 28, 5.30pm-6.30pm, author talk: Building Strong Foundations: Inspiring Kids to Flourish with Sally Wilson 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
Barefoot bowls Point Lonsdale Bowls Club every Friday and Sunday evening during the holidays. Live music every second Sunday.
5258 1150
Ballroom dance
Leopold Hall, Leopold Hall, 805-809 Bellarine Highway, Saturday May 4, 7.30-11pm, $10 includes supper, music Ben.
0419 463 306
Croquet
Drysdale Bowling & Croquet Club, Clifton Springs Road, Tuesdays from 10am for training, bring a friend. Turning 75 and World Day of Croquet, Sunday May 4, 12.30pm.
0428 740 591
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
Ocean Grove Snooker Club
Avenue Avengers (pictured) are a snooker team who play for Ocean Grove Snooker Club. The club, which has 12 teams, has been playing for 49 years. Matches are highly competitive but played in great spirit, with refreshments and supper at the end. Next year’s 50th season is highly anticipated and celebrations are being planned. Avenue Avengers are looking to bolster numbers.
0448 391 366
CWA Nightlights Ocean Grove
CWA Nightlights Ocean Grove meets the 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
Live music
Bellarine Country Music Group meets Friday nights at Belmont Park Pavilion, music 7pm-10pm, $10 entry all welcome.
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
Carpet bowls
Leopold Hall 805-809 Bellarine Highway, Leopold on Wednesday and Friday from 1pm to 3.15pm. Admission: $4 includes afternoon tea.
0400 500 402
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)
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
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
Ocean Grove Day VIEW
Meets second Wednesday of the month at 360Q, Queenscliff, 10.30am for 11am.
oceangroveday.viewclub@gmail.com
Drysdale Day VIEW
Supporting The Smith Family for fun and friendship while supporting disadvantaged Students. Meetings at Portarlington Golf Club for lunch on the fourth Friday of each month.
Margaret, 0431 636 090
Ocean Grove Evening VIEW
Meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 6.30pm. Supporting disadvantaged children through education.
oceangroveevening.viewclub@gmail.com
Ocean Grove on Barwon Probus Meets 9.45am for 10am every third Wednesday at Ocean Grove Golf Club.
gwen.anne.james@gmail.com
Drysdale Ladies Probus Club Meets at 10.30am on the fourth Monday of each month at the Clifton Springs Golf Club.
Raelene, 4244 0376
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
Afternoon tea dance
Life Activities Club [Geelong Inc] hosts an afternoon tea dance on Thursdays, 2-4pm, at Belmont Park Pavilion.
Entry: $5.
5251 3529
CWA Drysdale Meets Drysdale RSL, Princess Street, Drysdale on the second Tuesday of the month. Meetings start at 1pm followed by afternoon tea. Friendly group looking to recruit new members.
Jenni, 0452 258 333
A time for solemn remembrance
A large crowd gathered at Ocean Grove Park for the Anzac Day march and service. Rain threatened, but fortunately it passed before proceedings took place. Guest speaker was Lieutenant Claude Bromilow while WWII veteran Roy Porter, who turned 100 earlier this month, was acknowledged. Justin Flynn was there to take these photographs. Lest we forget.
Cr Elise Wilkinson and Liberal candidate for Corangamite Darcy Dunstan.
WWII veteran Roy Porter.
Lt Claude Bromilow and Ocean Grove Barwon Heads RSL sub-branch president Phil Edwards.
Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant and Member for Corangamite Libby Coker.
Amenah and Kayla from Ocean Grove Surf Lifesaving Club.
ACROSS
1 Scholarly (8)
5 Practices (6)
10 Breakfast favourite (5)
11 Divide into parts (9)
12 Jolly (6)
13 Squirm (7)
14 Ways of speaking (8)
15 Capital of Czech Republic (6)
18 Bring into being (6)
20 Haughty (8)
21 Sloping type (7)
24 Unfold (6)
27 Bewitch (9)
28 Whinny (5)
29 Lengthy list (6)
30 LAN network (8)
DOWN
1 French abbot (4)
2 Alaska’s largest city (9)
3 Boredom or lethargy (5)
4 Rude (8)
6 More irridescent (7)
7 Current (5)
8 Most heartfelt (9)
9 Sketch (4)
14 Dishonest (9)
16 Subtle change by degrees (9)
17 Debate (8)
19 Coaching (7)
22 A useful quality (5)
23 Wound-mark (4)
25 Flinch (5)
26 Informal conversation (4)
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 newspaper did Clark Kent work at?
2 If a ship is a collier, what does it carry?
3 Name the ghost in Shakespeare's Macbeth
4 The kina is the national currency of which nation?
5 Who provides the voice for Smaug in The Hobbit: The DesolationofSmaug?
6 What does the Kelvin scale measure?
7 Which was the first Mr Men book: MrHappy Mr Tickle or MrMessy?
8 True or false: bream is a species of bird?
9 What character did Alan Rickman (pictured) play in RobinHood:PrinceofThieves?
10 Jørn Utzon designed which iconic Australian building?
No. 267
No. 235
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Which team selected US basketballer Paige Bueckers with the first overall pick of the 2025 WNBA draft?
2. With what number pick of the 2025 WNBA draft did the Washington Mystics select Australian basketballer Georgia Amoore?
3. Which Canadian player led the 2024–25 NBA regular season with 32.7 points per game?
4. The jumper worn by the Gold Coast Suns during a recent AFL Gather Round match was predominantly what colour?
5. Which Lithuanian-American player led the 2024–25 NBA regular season with 13.9 rebounds per game?
British tennis player Harriet Dart has apologised after asking an umpire to tell her opponent to wear what during a recent match in France?
Which US basketballer led the 2024–25 NBA regular season with 11.6 assists per
The fictional Charlestown Chiefs minor league ice hockey team featured in which 1977 film starring Paul Newman?
9. Which Australian basketballer led the 2024–25 NBA regular season with 3.0 steals per game?
The late Major League Baseball pitcher Octavio Dotel was born in which country?
11. In April, Oscar Piastri took his second and third F1 Grand Prix victories of the year at races in which two countries?
12. Which former AFL player and premiership coach is known by the nickname ‘Choco’?
13. Running 100m in 10 seconds flat, who became the second-fastest Australian in history at the national championships in Perth?
14. Which Italian soccer club is the reigning champion of the UEFA Europa League?
15. And with seven victories, which Spanish club has won the Europa League title the most times since its 1971 inception?
16. In cycling, what term describes a crash where one fall causes many others?
17. Which French tennis player, nicknamed ‘The Crocodile,’ went on to found a fashion brand known for its polo shirts and reptile logo?
18. Which UK city is UFC fighter Paddy Pimblett originally from?
19. And for what comedic reason does Pimblett claim he can’t be knocked out?
20. Which two teams played in the AFL’s first ‘Opening Round’ in 2024, a week before the traditional Round 1?
21. What colour is the number 13 pool ball in a standard set?
22. Auston Matthews plays for which NHL team?
23. San Jose’s Major League Soccer team goes by what nickname?
24. How many lanes are there in an Olympic swimming pool?
25. And how many metres wide are they?
26. In which year did the Essendon Football Club last win a final?
ACCOUNTING SERVICES
RocheAccounting 52562764
ANTENNAS
ArrowAntennas 0439785703
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AUTOMOTIVE
AutoCareOceanGrove(Repco) 52551045
GardinerAutomotive 52555380
BUILDING DESIGNERS
MichaelHigginsBuildingDesign 52553355
BUTCHERS
Benno’sMeatingPlace 52541828
CHIMNEY SWEEPS
A1ChimneySweep&Co 0426897479
CONVEYANCING
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CLEANING AND LAUNDRY
AussieCleaning&Laundry 0430215264
DENTAL
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in which sport?
30. Circuit of the Americas is a motor racing track in which US state?
27. WWE wrestler The Miz stars in which 2013 action movie?
28. Jamie Elliott debuted for the Collingwood Football Club in which year?
29. Long on and long off are positions
Still keeping ahead of the game
By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring
It’s amazing how the Toyota Corolla has evolved over the years.
Back in the day it was basic, vanilla transport and that’s the way it stayed for years.
Then someone, somewhere flipped a switch and things began to change dramatically, starting with the 11th gen Corolla in 2012.
But it was just a warm up for the current model which arrived in early 2018, with its complex, unrepentant, multi-faceted design.
Sittinglowerthanbeforewithasteeplyraked windscreen, it presents a predatory nose, with a designthatisasgoodasanythingfromEurope.
The long and short of it is that the company has been able to transform the image of the car from staid and conservative into something much more sporty with younger buyer appeal - and Corolla remains the best-selling cars in the world.
Styling
Corolla hatch starts from $30,630 for the AscentSport,$33,780fortheSX,$37,620forthe ZR - all with a 1.8-litre hybrid petrol-electric drivetrain and CVT automatic.
And, if the sporty ZR doesn’t float your boat, there’s also the high performance, all-wheel drive GR Corolla to consider.
But bring your money with you, because it’s a big hike in price: $67,990 in manual form or $70,490 with an automatic (before on-road costs). Two-tone paint adds $775 and is offered in combination with white, grey, red, silver and blue.
Our test vehicle, the ZR Hybrid hatch, is priced from $43,280 by the time you put it on the road in Sydney. The price varies a little depending on your address.
Finished in black over silver, the ZR looks stunning.
Standard kit includes 18-inch alloys, dual zone climate air and a combination of real and artificial suede trim, with heated sports seats up front with red accents and an eight-way, power-adjust driver seat with lumbar support.
There’s also a premium gear lever and steering wheel, smart entry and start, electric parking brake, adaptive cruise control, road sign recognition, auto lights and wipers, auto-dimming rear view mirror, front and rear parking sensors and rear privacy glass. In the lights department, it has auto high beam, bi-LED headlights, along with LED daytime, tail and front/rear fog lights.
ZR steps up to a full 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster along with windscreen head-up display.
Corolla comes with a five-year unlimited kilometre warranty.
Infotainment
Infotainment consists of an 8.0-inch touchscreen with premium JBL 8-speaker audio, plus Bluetooth, satellite navigation, AM/ FMandDAB+digitalradio,andwirelessApple CarPlay and wired Android Auto.
You also get 12 months of complimentary access with remote connect to Toyota Connect Services which automatically notifies emergency services in the event of an accident as well as provides remote access to the car. There’s also a wireless charge pad, two USB-C ports and a 12 volt outlet in the front (but nothing for rear seat passengers).
Safety
Corolla has been awarded a full five stars for safety by ANCAP. It comes with a rear view camera, seven airbags including a driver knee airbag and autonomous emergency braking (City, Interurban & Vulnerable Road User) as well as lane keep assist (LKA) with lane departure warning (LDW).
An upgraded Toyota Safety Sense suite starts with the pre-collision safety system which adds motorcycle detection, intersection collision avoidance support for crossing vehicles and left/right turn, emergency steering assist and acceleration suppression at low speeds.
Cameras and radar sensors have also been
improved offering a wider range for detection of obstacles or vehicles.
Blind spot monitor has been added across thehatchrange,whilelanetraceassisthasbeen expanded to include the emergency driving stop system feature that has been designed to bring the vehicle to a gradual stop if it detects the driver is no longer making vehicle inputs.
The active cruise control system has also been enhanced and now offers four distance settings, the ability to detect other vehicles earlier, and the addition of deceleration assist when changing lanes.
But it misses out on auto reverse braking.
Isofix child restraint anchorage points are provided for the rear outboard seats.
Engines/transmissions
With the introduction of the upgraded fifth-generation hybrid powertrain, performance has been boosted with a 13kW increase in power to deliver a combined output of 103kW.
The upgraded hybrid teams a 1.8-litre petrol engine with a newly developed high-output motor generator, power control unit and downsized hybrid transaxle.
The front, axle-mounted drive motor has been enhanced by doubling the number of magnets per pole inside the rotor, while the newly developed lithium-ion battery reduces weight by 14 per cent while increasing both input and output power.
Thehybriddrivesthefrontwheelsexclusively viaacontinuouslyvariabletransmission(CVT).
Driving
Corolla’s low stance and wind-cheating profile places the car quite close to the ground. As a result, it can make getting in and out difficult at times and it means driveways and speed humps also need to be approached with caution, as the low front apron is prone to scraping.
Sports seats with bolstered sides add to the difficulty. The sloping rear roof line also makes entry to the back seat more difficult than it probably should be and you might find it a little cramped once you’re in.
The boot gains some extra space, with a puncture kit instead of a spare tyre to make room for the hybrid battery pack.
Of note Corolla’s cousin the Lexus UX scores a larger 2.0-litre engine as the basis for its hybrid that produces a combined 146kW.
Putting the transmission of the hybrid in Power mode delivers more satisfying throttle response, with a turn of speed thanks to the boost from the electric motor. But make sure you don’t pull the transmission lever back all the way or you’ll find yourself in B instead of D, which is regenerative braking mode.
Traffic sign monitor recognises physical speed signs only.
It doesn’t recognise electronic speed signs, nor does it differentiate between standard signs, timed school zones or bus and truck advisory speed - so until it encounters a real speed sign it could be telling you fibs.
Steering is sharp and the hatch corners flat
and hard, but the ride is overly harsh and the cabin can become quite noisy depending on the surface.
Toyota does not permit operation of the satellite navigation system while the car is in motion.
It’s super annoying, but you have to be in park with the handbrake activated. And that means pulling over and spending precious minutes on the task.
Sluggish response from the touchscreen makes the task that much more difficult. You can bang in the name of a street only to look up and discover it failed to recognise the first letter and that means starting over.
Of course, you could try appealing to the car’s voice activation system, but that’s an even more frustrating experience.
At the end of the day the hybrid is all about economy and this is where the Corolla excels. Rated at 4.0L/100km, we were getting 5.2L after almost 400km of mixed driving.
Summing up
You can’t really go wrong with the Corolla ZR hybrid hatch, but it commands a steeper price these days at more than $43K on the road. There’s no longer a petrol model to distract buyers, but the hybrid powertrain provides immediate, accessible, no frills fuel savings to the average motorist, with no need for user intervention.
Beware the low ride height however which makes entry and exit more difficult than you might think.
You can’t really go wrong with the Corolla ZR hybrid hatch. (Pictures: Supplied)
Power surge under lights
Voice photographer Ivan Kemp saw Newcomb defeat Ocean Grove under lights at Grinter Reserve on Anzac Day.
Josh Saltalamacchia breaks clear.
Jarrod Stafford and Jacob Talarico compete in the ruck.
Left: Corey Ogle kicks into the forward line. Centre: Ben Bennett picks up the ball before being tackled. Right: Mitch Ward marks strongly. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 473889
Jacob Talarico and Jarrod Stafford.
Jamison Hallam breaks clear.
Dion Johnstone kicks to a team mate.
Oliver Poulson is tackled.
Cameron Fowler runs out of defence.
A favourite son returns
By Justin Flynn
St Leonards hopes of returning to the Bellarine Peninsula Cricket Association A1 Grade competitionhastakenaturnforthebetterwith the appointment of a new coach and assistant coach.
Shane Cutajar will cross from Drysdale to take the reins while prolific Drysdale batter Nick Hallam has also moved to Len Trewin Reserve as assistant coach.
Cutajar played in the Saints maiden A Grade flag in 2003-04 and has also played in a premiership with Drysdale.
Cutajar began playing junior cricket for St Leonards in the Under 12s where he took nine wickets for seven runs in one game, including a hat-trick, but it is his batting that he is more well known for.
Cutajar played 134 games for St Leonards and won the Ray Menzies Medal for best player in the competition in 1996-97 and returns after a two-decade absence.
“Welcome home Cutters, it’s been far too long and we can’t wait to see you in action as a Saint once again,” the club said on its Facebook page.“Thecurrentcropofplayerswillloveyou, and the old past players will all be celebrating upon hearing this news.”
Hallamiswellknownacrossthecompetition as a stylish right-hand batter and will bolster the Saints’ top order.
Meanwhile St Leonards voted in a new president with Luke Roberts now at the helm.
Star bowler James Burns is vice-president, Michael Norris is treasurer and women’s A Grade player Trudi Kyrou is again junior coordinator.
Three rounds to go before the finals
LOCAL TENNIS
Donna Schoenmaekers
Despite doubts about whether play would go ahead even up to an hour before start time, Tuesday Women’s Round 11 went ahead in what turned out to be beautiful autumn conditions.
In Section 2 there is still plenty to play for, with just three rounds to go before finals, and all teams still with the possibility of making finals.
Aireys Inlet (3rd) and Moolap (4th) were only separated on percentage going into this week’s match and Moolap travelled down the coast on a wet and miserable looking morning to find the courts damp but playable. Moolap secured a 5-1 win at home in the round 4 clash, but Aireys turned the tables, comfortably at home winning five sets to one, maintaining their position on Surfcoast Torquay Yellow, only two points ahead.
Torquay Yellow made the trip to Highton to face seventh placed Gold team and maintained their place on the ladder, with a 5-1 win. Gold challengedYellowwithclose7-6and6-4losses, but Torquay were too strong on the day.
Ladder leaders Point Lonsdale were the third team to win 5-1, in their away match to Surfcoast Torquay White, with the scoreline matching the round 4 encounter almost exactly.
The Ladies from Lonny put on a consistent performance, ensuring they maintained top spot and placing them well with two of the top four to play in the final three rounds.
The closest match of the day was fifth placed Barwon Heads hosting eighth placed Highton Blue, on the blue courts under blue skies. In their round 4 meeting, Highton managed to scrape through by one game, so this week’s meeting was also expected to be close.
The teams split the first two sets with Julie Toner and Emma Webb winning the first for the home team 6-2, while Sue Pickering and Belinda Murphy battled though in a tie-break for Highton.
Highton took the lead winning the third and fourth sets 6-2, 7-6, before Pickering hurt her knee in the first game of the sixth set and was unable to continue. Highton battled in the fifth set, but the Heads’ Toner with Shelley Sutton proved too strong winning 7-5, taking the win by six games.
Sutton and Murphy had an enduring match up across the morning with all three of their sets going to seven. Despite the loss, the three sets pushed Blue from eighth to sixth, with a slim but possible chance of still making finals with Torquay White, Aireys Inlet and Moolap left to play.
With many of the top four still left to play each other, there is still plenty of opportunity for position changes within and from outside thefour.Allteamswillneedtoearntheirfinals positions and time will tell who will.
Fowler wins Aus title
Geelong’sChrisFowlerhasbeencrowned Australian Grand Prix Midget Racing Association champion for the first time in his career.
Qualifying in pole position for the title at Wahgunyah was Alex Myers with Fowler, Gary Bowyer, Gavin Black, Adam Buckley, Matt Kamolins, Daniel Meredith, Locky Robotham, Paul Perry, Travis Florrimell, Riley Bowyer, Johnny Rouse, Shawn Ward, Dylan Lees, Terry Brown, Wayne Harrison-Watt and Mark Cecil completing the lineup for the 20-lap title distance.
Myers was the first to lead a lap with Fowler, Black, Bowyer, Buckley and Paul Perry the top six. Black would pass Fowler on lap two into second spot and Perrywouldbethefirsttocomeacropper onlapfourwhenhespunwhilstinhissix spot, sending him way back to 13th the next time he passed around.
On lap four Black would move to the lead of the race and Kamolins moved into the sixth spot vacated by Perry.
At the half way point of the race Black, Myers, Bowyer, Fowler and Buckley was the race order whilst Bowyer would spin on lap 10 and Meredith a lap later would starttohavetemperatureissueswhenthe water hose let go and he exited infield, whilst Bowyer also suffered a spin.
Robotham’s clutch gave up and his car exitedtheraceonlap12withFowlernow back in third, Buckley fourth, and Riley Bowyer in fifth despite his spin.
On lap 13 Fowler moved to the second spot behind Black with Myers back to third before dropping another spot-on lap 14 to fourth and then three more positions on lap 15 settling into seventh spot.
Buckley moved into third with dramas plaguing the Myers car, and at the chequered flag Black crossed the line ahead of Fowler.
Post-race scrutineering found that Black’srearwingwassittingtoohighand outside the rules and was disqualified. Victorian champion Fowler became the new Australia one driver with Buckley second and Kamolins third.
“I would like to take this opportunity firstly and foremost to thank my father John for all the work, time, and effort he has done to get the car to where it is now so very consistent in its performance,” Fowler said.
“Also to Danny Stainer for building the car and his help and advice ever since we got the car from Danny and Ross. I am disappointed for Gavin and believe he made an honest set up error and look forward to racing with him again soon.”
Dean Thompson
Chris Fowler on the dias after his Australian Grand Prix Midget Racing Association title. (Noah Thorley Images)
TW2 Barwon Heads: Julie Toner, Emma Webb, Shelley Sutton, Sally Ford.
TW2 Highton Blue: Sarah Hall, Belinda Murphy, Lisa Dowling, Sue Pickering.
New St Leonards coach Shane Cutajar is congratulated by new president Luke Roberts. (St Leonards CC)
The Grubbers pushed all the way
By Justin Flynn
A vastly improved Newcomb gave reigning Bellarine Netball League premiers Ocean Grove an almighty scare under lights at Grinter Reserve on Anzac Day.
The Power led by eight goals at one stage in the second quarter before Grove rallied and hit back to win 46 to 40.
Sensing the danger that was unfolding, coach Mel Holmes made a match-winning move, shifting Zanna Woods from goal shooter to wing attack and Ashton O’Brien into the circle.
The Grubbers went on an unanswered 14-goal spree in the third term and early in the last.
Holmes put her side’s sluggish start down to wet conditions and a slick and hungry Newcomb team that opened the match strongly.
“Everyone had to play in the wet, but we didn’t adjust to that in the first little bit and to Newcomb’s credit they came out quite well,” she said.
“I mixed things up a bit to get a bit more movement. We were just struggling in the wet to get the ball down and just to create something different and it worked. We played the second half more to the conditions and we adjusted.”
With no Amanda O’Malley for the second week in a row, Georgia Berry had her hands full trying to curtail Carly Sanders and Gemma Bell moved from wing defence to goal defence. Captain Emily Moroney starred at wing defence instead of her usual wing attack and was judged best on court.
Holmes praised Newcomb’s game.
“Carly Sanders is a strong presence and a good target for them,” she said.
“She was impressive. They have recruited well and Lisa (Robinson) is a wonderful coach and person so I’m thrilled for them.”
Holmes said the opportunity to play on Anzac Day was something the club did not take for granted.
“We were on the oval with the footballers (before the game) and they did a beautiful service,” she said.
“It was a really moving tribute. It was an honour to play on Anzac Day.”
Ocean Grove returns home to Ray Menzies Oval this week after two away games and faces another big test in Queenscliff, which thumped Modewarre.
The Grubbers will regain O’Malley for the top three clash.
“They’re looking good and we’re looking forward to the challenge,” Holmes said. It’s just as well the Grubbers will have a full side because Queenscliff’s attack looked ominous in its 68 to 30 win. Alex Booker, Phoebe Knox and Kaitlin Gladman were unstoppable in attack for the Coutas in an impressive performance.
Geelong Amateur defeated Barwon Heads 50 to 36 with skipper Keisha Guilmartin brilliant in defence with midcourter Georgia Duncan playing her role and Kayla Donnellon good in attack. Chelsea Baker played well at wing attack for the Seagulls.
Torquay came away from Anglesea with a 62 to 52 win with new coach Kate Schippers best.
Round 4
B Grade: Ocean Grove 37 def Newcomb 26. Best: Emma Jones, Claudia Britt, Jesse Sutton. C Grade: Ocean Grove 33 def Newcomb 18. Best: Anika Bult, Melanie Holmes, Zali Palmer. D Grade: Ocean Grove 37 def Newcomb 18. Best: Ailish Bowers, Emilie Punton, Tarryn Stanley.
E Grade: Ocean Grove 31 def Newcomb 12. Best: Emma Barry, Ruby Hildebrandt, Mia Haritos.
19 & Under: Ocean Grove 23 def Surf Coast Suns 9. Best: not supplied. 17 & Under Division 1: Ocean Grove 62 def Surf Coast Suns 3. Best: Piper Needham, Mikala Martin, Grace van Maasdyk.
17 & Under Division 2: bye 15 & Under Division 1: Ocean Grove 28 def Surf Coast Suns 22. Best: Ruby Brooks, Iluka O’Loughlin, Stevie Long. 15 & Under Division 2: Ocean Grove 63 def Newcomb 3. Best: Emma Robinson, Joie Clarke, Caitlin Maud. 13 & Under Division 1: Ocean Grove 31 def Surf Coast Suns 13. Best: not supplied.
13 & Under Division 2: Ocean Grove 23 def Newcomb 6. Best: Max Johnson, Cleo Kelso, Lily Robinson.
Portarlington defeated Drysdale 36 to 32 on Anzac Day to move up to sixth spot on the ladder. Tall goaler Tully Bethune contributed 18 goals while Mia Fallon was Drysdale’s best.
Work to do as Grove searches for a second win
Ocean Grove has some work to do after being outpointed by an impressive Newcomb on Anzac Day under lights at Grinter Reserve.
Newcomb started the game strongly, but the Grubbers got back into the contest and were three goals down going into the final break.
However, the Power finished strongly to win 15.11(101) to 8.9(57).
There was no doubting Ocean Grove’s effort. But it lacked a focal point up forward whereas Newcomb had one in Jack Duke, who booted five goals.
“The boys left nothing in the tank, and as a coaching group that’s our number one ask,” coach Dave Farrell said.
“As for the forward line, we’re definitely missing that focal point right now with Kye (Annand), Jai (Hale) and Nick (Bourke) all out of action and expect they will all have a big impact in the forward half when fit and playing again.”
Newcomb’s resurrection this season is there for all to see. The Power have a strong midfield and with Duke up forward, they could win more than they lose.
After a good win in round one, Grove has dropped three in a row and faces another one-and-three side in Queenscliff this Saturday.
“Queenscliff are one of those sides that can knock anyone off if you’re not on your game,” Farrell said. “But we’re excited to be back on our deck - we love playing at home, it will be a massive pink day raising awareness and funds for BCNA and we feel like we owe our supporters a strong four-quarter performance. We’ll have a big week on the track and we’ll be ready.”
Ocean Grove was well served by its midfield, particularly Joe McDonald and
Josh Lange, who kept putting their heads over the ball contest after contest.
“I thought our mids competed really well - clearances and contested footy were strengths on the day,” Farrell said. “But forward of centre, we just didn’t make the most of our looks. Our connection going inside 50 needs work, and we’ll be training to that again during the week.”
Despite the wet and slippery conditions,
Farrell said it was an honour to be able to play on Anzac Day.
“We spoke about it during the week and again before the game - what the day represents, the sacrifice, the mateship, and the opportunity to represent our club and community in that spirit,” he said.
“The boys really embraced it, and we felt privileged to be part of something special.”
With Grove’s reserves side having a win,
there is competition for spots.
“We got through relatively unscathed but all quarters went over 35 minutes so we’ve effectively played a fifth quarter,” Farrell said.
“The boys will benefit from the extra day’s break. Our 12pm side is looking really good, our depth is great and we’ve got healthy competition for spots at the moment, which is exactly what you want.”
Justin Flynn
Left: Campbell Snookes and Josh Saltalamacchia in a tight contest for the ball. Right: Newcomb’s Dion Johnstone lays a strong tackle on Mitch Ward. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 473889
Emily Moroney won the medal for best player on the court. (Ivan Kemp) 428237_15
