OPEN DAYS DEBORAH CHEETHAM VILLAGE
FRIDAY 23 & SATURDAY 24 MAY, 10AM - 2PM
Come and experience the warmth of our Ryman village communities, we’d love to show you around. Discover our lifestyle and care options, tour our show homes and explore our premium amenities. We look forward to seeing you.
12 MONTHS, ZERO FEES*
Sign up to an independent apartment or villa before 30 June 2025 and you won’t pay your base weekly fee for a whole year.*
*Participating villages only, Ts & Cs apply.
To find out more visit rymanhealthcare.com.au/open-days
Aquatic centre closed for June
Bellarine Aquatic & Sports Centre will close for four weeks early next month to allow for “urgent works” the City of Greater Geelong said.
The centre will be closed from Monday June 2 to Monday June 30 to replace the pool’s extraction fan and to undertake repairs to the centre’s roof.
The gym, Motivate30, Gymnastics, studio-based group exercise classes (excluding Crank), and the stadium will all remain open
and continue as scheduled. Crank classes will be held at North Bellarine Aquatic Centre.
Additional Aqua Aerobics classes have been scheduled at Splashdown Leisure Centre and Leisurelink Aquatic & Recreation Centre.
Webstar’s Swim School classes will be relocated or automatically suspended.
Community members enrolled in the program have been emailed with specific information about their options.
Surfside Cafe will remain open for three
weeks (entry via the main entrance), before closing from Sunday 22 June to Friday 27 June.
Communitymemberswillbeabletoenterthe centre through the Shell Road (north-facing) sideofthebuilding,withreceptiontemporarily relocated to the cycle room.
Connewarre Ward councillor Elise Wilkinson reminded users that they had free reciprocal access built into their membership.
“During this period, members can visit the City’s other indoor and outdoor Swim Sport &
French Anzac tour ‘really touching’
Ocean Grove singer-songwriter Vin Healy has returned from France with a renewed sense of purpose after performing on Anzac Day in a town that survives thanks to the sacrifice of Australian servicemen.
Mr Healy has a catalogue of songs telling the stories of heroic Australian men and women during wartime, including an ode to the Unknown Soldier and a ballad telling the story of Australian nurse Sister Ella Tucker in Gallipoli.
Each year French township Villers-Bretonneux holds its own Anzac Day services to remember the thousands of
Australians who gave their lives defending the town from German forces in World War I.
After his songs were used on documentary Never Forget Australia, Mr Healy was invited to Villers-Bretonneux to perform on and around Anzac Day this April.
Heperformedatthetown’sSirJohnMonash Centre on April 23, during the French Anzac Day service, in the township later on Anzac Day and at a school rebuilt after the war ended thanks to Australian charity.
He said the trip had been “a great experience” and “really touching”.
“When I wrote the songs, I did so from afar,
based on what I’d read and seen online,” Mr Healy said.
“To actually go and see the beautiful countryside that was turned into this horror added a whole new lens to the way I see the songs now. It just adds a whole other layer of meaning.”
Mr Healy said he wanted to be able to share his songs further, planning to head to Papua New Guinea later this year and hoping to form collaborations with other Australian artists.
Matt Hewson
Leisure centres at no extra cost,” Cr Wilkinson said. “The most convenient nearby options are North Bellarine in Drysdale, Moolap’s Splashdown and Leisurelink at Waurn Ponds.”
For more information, including class booking instructions and relocation details, visit membership.geelongaustralia.com.au/ BASCTemporaryClosureFAQs
Members also have the option of suspending their membership during the works through the Member Portal.
Helping tiny towns thrive
Bellarine’s tiniest towns are becoming even better places to live, work, stay and play thanks to funding for community-building projects.
Three new Bellarine projects received grants of between $5000 and $50,000 through round two of the state government’s Tiny Towns Fund to help communities with less than 5000 people flourish.
Point Lonsdale Basketball Club will be able to resurface its basketball court at Point Lonsdale Primary School through the grant.
President Ben Van Doren said the upgrades would create a safer environment for the club’s members.
“Currently our club in Point Lonsdale hasnoindoorfacilitiesatallforbasketball or indoor sports whatsoever,” he said.
“We’vehadalotofinjurieswithgrazed knees and young girls not wanting to play basketball or train because they get injured, so we’re at a real disadvantage to other clubs.
“Thecourtisallasphalt,soit’sbasically like a cheese grater when you land on it; it’s pretty abrasive. I’m not sure how old they are, but it’s a really rough surface to play on and very slippery when it’s wet.”
Bellarine Railway received funding to restore and upgrade its historic DAV carriage to support people living with disabilities. President Jake Gonzalez Prudden said the carriage’s restoration would be “transformative”.
“We are committed to ensuring families and friends with accessibility needs can enjoy the same experiences as any other visitor on all our services,” he said. “The DAV Carriage’s upgraded and updated capabilities will ensure the railway continues to offer inclusive and enjoyable experiences through its heritage services and special events.”
Vin Healy. (Ivan Kemp) 465655_11 Inset: Vin in Villers-Bretonneux. (Supplied)
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Financial support to help you study and Free TAFE courses are available.
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Protesters gather at MP’s office
By Jena Carr
Wildlife rescuers are continuing to oppose the state’s duck hunting season following a protest outside a Bellarine MP’s office.
Geelong Duck Rescue (GDR) members gathered outside State Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant’s office at Leopold’s Gateway Plaza on May 10 but were ordered off the shoppingcentre’sgroundsbyasecurityofficer.
Protest organiser and founder Natalie Kopas said the group urged Ms Marchant to take a stand against duck hunting as the shooting site Lake Connewarre was located within her electorate.
“We got the impression that this was an instruction passed on from Ms Marchant’s office to centre management to get rid of us,” she said.
“Labor’s war on wildlife is deeply unpopular, so it makes sense she would try to avoid any public association with the cruelty of recreational duck shooting happening right in her backyard.”
Protesters moved to the streets to highlight their concerns that the state’s native waterbird populations had declined due to habitat loss, drought and climate change.
GDR’s Blue Bill Duck mascot also attended the protest and said the blue bill duck was a
native species that was not supposed to be shot.
“Even though I’m not on the list, my species is still wounded and killed by shooters every year,” they said.
“I think Ms Marchant actually did us a favour. Outside her office, hardly anyone would have seen us, but once we were pushed onto the street, every passing car saw our signs.”
A state government spokesperson said Ms Marchant supported people’s “right to peaceful protest” and that the decision to move protesters was made by Gateway Plaza’s owner, Charter Hall.
Quilters help warm the community
Bellarine residents passionate about quilting and craft are helping provide comfort and warmth to people in need within the community.
Bellarine Quilting Group donated 52 handmade quilts to the community, including Meli’sfostercareserviceandtheSexualAssault and Violence Centre in Geelong.
Group coordinator Christine Fox said the ladies “just love making quilts” and donating them to people in need, primarily to “women and children in distress”.
“We’re just a group of ladies who enjoy a love of craft and are able to pass the benefits of that on to the wider community,” she said.
“Welovebeingcreative,expressingourselves andbeingpartofagroupthatsharesacommon interest; we just enjoy going and having fun.
“One of the things we like to be involved in is making charity quilts, which we like to call them comfort quilts, and we donate those quilts to various organisations on the Bellarine Peninsula and in Geelong.”
Ms Fox said the group started in 1986 with
about five ladies coming together to enjoy crafts, with its members deciding to start donating quilts 15 years ago.
“Givingawaythequiltsisalsoarealbuzz;we get a lot of benefit out of that. You get as much fromgivingasyoudofromreceiving,”shesaid.
“The social benefits are enormous, and we get a lot out of our meetings. People from all sorts of backgrounds come once a week to meet, discuss and share a common interest.”
Jena Carr
Push ups to highlight mental health victims
headspace Ocean Grove is encouraging locals topushforbettermentalhealthbyparticipating in Australia’s largest mental health and fitness event next month.
Participants will take on the Push-Up Challenge and will attempt 3214 push-ups across 23 days in June, to remember and honourthe3214liveslosttosuicideinAustralia in 2023.
Hundreds of thousands of Australians from all ages and walks of life will participate in the event which engages people in mental health through connection, physical activity and education.
“The Push-Up Challenge is a great opportunity to talk about mental health, learn how to best support each other and recognise
when someone might need to put their own hand up for help,” headspace Ocean Grove Manager Tanya Fitzpatrick said.
“We had so much support from sports clubs, community groups and individuals around the Bellarine last year who seemed to have had so much fun pushing up and learning about mental health with us, we can’t wait to do it all again in 2025.”
“More people than ever before are reaching out to headspace for help and support, and the money raised through the Push-Up Challenge will help us continue to support the mental health and wellbeing of young people on the Bellarine.”
From June 4 to 26, participants of all ages and abilities will do push-ups while learning about mental health, with the number of daily push-ups changing to reflect a vital mental health fact.
“In line with security protocols, Charter Hall was notified of a planned protest out the front of the Bellarine electorate office. The decision to move on protestors is a matter for Charter Hall,” they said.
Hunters will receive cultural heritage and wounding reduction training with stricter penalties introduced for people doing the wrong thing, enforced through the Wildlife (Game) Regulations 2024.
This year’s daily bag limit for game birds has also been guided by the science-based Adaptive Harvest Management model, which was tailored to the state’s conditions, habitats and species.
Grants support volunteer work
Four Bellarine Peninsula coastal volunteergroupshavereceivedCoastcare Victoria Community Grants Program funds.
MemberforBellarineAlisonMarchant announced successful applicants for the 2025 grants program and they will share $220,000 in grants from the state. Grant recipients on the Bellarine include Bellarine Bayside Foreshore Committee ofManagementInc,BellarineCatchment Network, Friends of the Bluff and Swan Bay Environment Association.
They are among 27 successful grant recipients, stretching from Portland in the state’s west to Mallacoota in the east.
Funding will support projects across Victoria that build the capacity of marine and coastal volunteers, improve environmental and cultural values, support community adaptation, and improve ecosystem resilience to climate change.
“I’m really proud to support the dedicated efforts of local volunteer groups working to look after our iconic and special coastal and marine environment,” Ms Marchant said.
“Supporting community projects like these is vital to help volunteer groups adapt and plan for changes to their local coastal environment.”
The government said it was building Victoria’s resilience to climate change and is continually improving how it plans for and adapts to rising sea levels and more coastal erosion as a result of climate change.
Some of the headspace Ocean Grove team getting some push-up practice. (Supplied)
Ann Reid, Heather Grant, Mary Wilson, Chris Fox, Darinka Barmby with grandchild Billy, Barbara Stevens and Claudia Welter. (Ivan Kemp) 476580_03
Classic cars will turn heads Sunday
A sea of classic vehicles is sure to turn heads as they cruise through Geelong and the Bellarine this Sunday.
Geelong Motoring Enthusiasts Incorporated will host its monthly Caffeine and Gasoline event on National Motoring Heritage Day on May 18 from 8am.
The event will feature classic cars cruising along roads from North Geelong through the heart of Geelong’s city centre before heading along Portarlington Road and finishing up in Queenscliff.
CommitteememberChrisQuirkesaidmany
cars aged 25 years or older would be involved in the cruise and that they were “always a head turner”.
“I’ve got an early 90s Mercedes-Benz C Class that my partner and I have been restoring for over a couple of years. That’s all done and we’re taking that along,” he said.
“Any excuse to get the car out, of course, while enjoying a Sunday drive. We get to hang outwithsomefriends,talkaboutcarstuff,have a bite to eat and enjoy the day.
“There’ll be between 70 to 100 vehicles (participating) and this is the second year that
ourclubhasrananeventonbehalfoftheofthe day and we’ve really enjoyed it. It’s just a good day to get out.”
National Motoring Heritage Day was a significant event for motoring enthusiasts as it was time to showcase a passion for older vehicles to the broader community.
Mr Quirke said anyone interested in joining Geelong Motoring Enthusiasts Incorporated could visit gme.tidyhq.com for more information.
Jena Carr
Labor retains Corangamite
Labor’s Libby Coker retained the seat of Corangamite at the federal election.
Based on preference count, Coker had 37.85 percent, Liberal’s Darcy Dunstan 34.42 percent and the Greens’ Mitch Pope 14.16 percent.
Coker had a small 1.07 percent swing against compared to the 2022 election.
Based on a two-party preferred count, Cokerwon58.07ofthevotewithDunstan 41.93 percent.
Pope also had a small swing of 1.08 percentagainsttheGreenswhileDunstan picked up 0.22 percent for the Liberals compared to the 2022 election.
CokerhasheldCorangamitesince2019.
As expected Richard Marles retained the electorate of Corio with a 1.18 percent swing in the federal election held on Saturday May 3.
Marles received 43.08 percent of the primary votes with Liberal candidate Darren Buller 25.25 percent and Greens’ Emilie Flynn 15.41 percent.
Labor’sLibbyCokerretainedtheseatof Corangamite.
Based on preference count, Coker had 37.85 percent, Liberal’s Darcy Dunstan 34.42 percent and the Greens’ Mitch Pope 14.16 percent.
Coker had a small 0.55 percent swing against compared to the 2022 election.
Wannon incumbent Dan Tehan retained his seat despite some strong competition from Independent candidate Alex Dyson.
Tehan had 44.23 percent of the first preference count with Dyson 31.98 percent.
Matt Nugent-McColley, left, Paul Lavithis with his 1976 LX Torana Hatchback, Chris Quirke and Lawrence Glynn. (Ivan Kemp) 477991_08
Workplace surveillance concerns
A Bellarine MP is calling for stronger protections on workplace surveillance as technology advances and job environments shift towards remote working.
Legislative Assembly Economy and InfrastructureCommitteetableditsfinalreport on Tuesday, May 13, regarding an inquiry into workplace surveillance across the state.
Committee chair and Member for Bellarine AlisonMarchantsaidthereportrecommended that the state government introduce new workplace surveillance laws.
“Workplace surveillance that is excessive and lacks transparency has been shown to have a negative impact on employees’ morale,
job satisfaction and commitment to their organisation,” she said.
“It has also been shown that it can intensify work, adversely affect employees’ mental and physical health and exacerbate the power imbalance between employers and employees.
“It became clear throughout the inquiry that many Victorian workers are unaware of the extent of surveillance in their workplace and how their employers are handling and storing datacollectedthroughworkplacesurveillance.”
Ms Marchant said the report recommended that the legislation include requirements for employers to notify and consult with workers about workplace surveillance practices.
Palliative care support
Bellarine Community Health (BCH), as part of Palliative Care Week, wanted to challenge the community to begin a conversation about death, to think about their future and how they want to be cared for.
Palliative Care Week runs from May 11 to 17 this year and aims to raise awareness about palliative care, advocate for quality services, and ensure accessibility for all Australians.
“We are incredibly proud to say that BCH supports more than two-thirds of clients to die in their preferred place, with nearly 55 percent dying in their own homes,” BCH executive directorofadultandagedservicesKarenLaing said.
“This figure is significantly higher than the Australian average of 15 percent and shows the growing need in our community for palliative care support.”
The BCH specialist palliative care team is
made up of four specialist nurses and a social worker supported by a specialist medical officer and visiting clinical nurse consultant from Barwon Health.
The team, working alongside the BCH Community Nurses, provide 24/7 care and support for up to 70 people with a life-limiting illness/condition in their homes at any one time.
BCHhasalsopartneredwithvolunteergroup Compassionate Hearts on the Bellarine to run a bereavement group. The group has a coffee catch up and a walking group each month where people who have lost a loved one can develop connections to help reduce loneliness and discuss their grief in a safe environment.
The BCH palliative care team will also be conducting an information session at the BCH Ageing Well Hub in Drysdale on Thursday May 29 from 10am.
“Existinglegislationhasn’tkeptpacewiththe dramatic changes that have occurred in recent decades and isn’t really protecting workers’ privacy,” she said.
“Whilefuturereformsmayhaveimplications for workplace surveillance, there is no guarantee when these changes will be made and if they will provide effective safeguards.
“Victorian employers should be required to notify and consult with workers about workplace surveillance practices and disclose how workers’ data will be collected, used and stored.”
Ms Marchant said she encouraged the government to introduce technology-neutral
laws and ensured surveillance was reasonable and necessary.
“Surveillance has advanced beyond camera footage and the recording of telephone calls to incorporate keylogging, wearable trackers, biometrics, neurotechnology and artificial intelligence,” she said.
“While there are legitimate reasons for employers to undertake surveillance, such as to ensure workers’ health and safety, it can become problematic when employers use surveillance covertly for other purposes.”
The committee previously received more than forty submissions and held four days of public hearings in response to the report.
Victoria, Beth, Paul and Prue from the BCH Community Nursing and Palliative Care team. (Supplied)
Don’t shoot the messenger, back it
By Paul Thomas, Managing Director Ocean Grove Voice
In the final days of the federal election campaign, Peter Dutton’s decision to lash out at the media was not just desperate, it was dangerous. Labelling the ABC and Guardian Australia as “hate media” and accusing journalists of being “activists” rather than reporters echoed the tired, toxic playbook of Donald Trump: when you’re behind, don’t reflect, just shout “fake news”.
Australians saw through that. No amount of spin,deflectionorblameshiftingcouldhidethe truth. Voters rejected the Coalition’s message. Shooting the messenger doesn’t change the message.
Media scrutiny is not the enemy of democracy; it’s the oxygen that keeps it alive. A free press questions power, challenges spin and asks uncomfortable questions. That’s not bias, that’s journalism.
Sure, when journalists get something wrong, callitout.Pointtoit.Demandacorrection.Any credible newsroom will make one. But blanket accusations, unsubstantiated claims and outrightfalsehoodsaimedatdelegitimisingthe media are not just cheap politics, they actively erode trust in institutions that underpin democracy.
We see this tactic far too often, not just at a federallevelbutinlocalcouncils,includingone our newsroom currently covers. Rather than engagingwiththefactsoraddressinglegitimate publicconcerns,someinpowerchoosetheeasy path: Attack the media. But in doing so, they expose themselves, not the journalists. That’s why strong local media matters now more than ever. Local newspapers and newsrooms remain one of the last truly independent and accountable sources of community information. They report on
councils, expose local corruption, celebrate communitysuccessandgiveavoicetoresidents.
Yet their very survival is under threat.
Digital platforms and social media have stripped local media of its commercial foundations, and worse, they have helped legitimise the kind of rhetoric Dutton and Trump rely on. By feeding audiences personalised echo chambers and monetising outrage, they have weakened the public’s trust in credible journalism, while doing little to support its production.
Thosewhobenefitfromjournalismmustalso help sustain it, and that includes the massive digital tech companies who have profited enormously from republishing, aggregating and monetising news content without paying fair value.
Now, artificial intelligence platforms are doing the same, scraping content, harvesting the work of journalists and training their models on material they never paid for. It’s the same pattern we’ve seen for years with social media - extract the value, deny responsibility, and undermine the industry you depend on.
This cannot continue. Everyone who profits from journalism must help fund it. That includes readers, advertisers, governments - and yes, the tech giants and AI developers whose empires have been built in part on the work of others.
On election day, Australians made it clear they won’t be fooled by leaders who blame everyone but themselves. Let’s hope they also recognise the essential role of a strong, independent media and are willing to fight for its future.
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Star News Group managing director Paul Thomas.
Help guide the coastline’s future
Residents across Geelong and the Bellarine can help shape the future of the state’s most-loved coastal stretches during a series of interactive design workshops.
Barwon Coast Foreshore Master Plan will enter its next engagement stage at the Ocean Grove Surf Lifesaving Club with community and stakeholder design workshops from June 27 to 29.
The plan had previously received more than
220detailedcommunitysurveyresponses,with the 50-minute workshop sessions designed to allow people to contribute directly to the plan’s design.
Barwon Coast Committee of Management chair Sandra Gatehouse said the plan would guide the protection, enhancement and sustainable use of coastal areas like Thirteenth Beach and Barwon Bluff over the next 15 years.
“We want this master plan to be shaped by
Staff walk for colleague
For staff at Bellarine Community Health (BCH), the May 50K event became a personal challengeafteracolleaguerecentlyrevealedshe was suffering from multiple sclerosis (MS).
In 2024, 47-year-old BCH staffer Kate McLean received the shock diagnosis of MS. She had suffered years of chronic migraines, headaches and fatigue but had put the symptoms down to being a busy working mother of three teenagers.
“The diagnosis knocked the wind out of our sails, and the fear was very real. But the more educated we became, I realised that ending up in a wheelchair is not definite, in fact, it’s not even likely,” she said.
MSstrikesyoungpeopleintheprimeoftheir lives with the average age of diagnosis just 30 years old. There is no known cure.
“My neurologist told me that when he was in medical school in the 2010s, there were only four types of MS treatments available, now there are more than ten. I thank my lucky stars that we live in this wonderful country where my very expensive treatment every six months is free.”
Kate recently revealed her condition to colleagues at BCH who are now throwing their support behind the May 50K event to walk and run 50km throughout May.
Kate says she is incredibly grateful for the supportofhercolleaguesandBCHtohelpraise funds for ongoing research.
“It’s been a tough ride so far, but made so much easier thanks to my beautiful family, gorgeousfriends,amazingworkcolleaguesand our health system,” she said.
“Myoutlookonsomanythingshaschanged. I’ve learnt to start putting myself first. I doubt we will find a cure in my lifetime, but more treatment options would be ideal.”
Kate says her GP gave her some great advice whichsheisfollowing:‘Makefriendswithyour MS – be kind to it and it will be kind to you’.
Donations can be made at themay50k.org/ fundraisers/bellarinecommunityhealth
voicesfromourcommunities;fromTraditional Owners, locals, to visitors and anyone else who loves this phenomenal place,” she said. “We’ve alreadyheardfromhundredsofpeoplethrough our recent community survey and community launch event, and these workshops are the next step in ensuring community priorities shape this plan.
“Whether you’re a local resident, a visitor, or someonewhocaresdeeplyaboutthiscoastline,
these sessions are your opportunity to help design a sustainable and accessible future for the Barwon Coast.”
AttendancetotheJuneworkshopsisfree,but bookings are essential as numbers were limited to ensure meaningful participation in each session. Visit bit.ly/ForeshoreDesignSessions to book a session or barwoncoast.com.au/ projects/foreshoremasterplan for more information on the master plan.
Barwon Coast Update
HELP SHAPE THE FUTURE OF THE BARWON COAST FORESHORE!
Friday, 27 June – Sunday, 29 June, 2025
Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club
Building on insights from over 226+ survey responses, we’re inviting you to take the next step. Join us for interactive, hands-on workshops, where your ideas, considerations, and priorities will help guide the development of the Foreshore Master Plan. You can learn more about the Master Plan process on our website.
BOOK YOUR SESSION NOW
To book, scan the QR code or visit bit.ly/ForeshoreDesignSessions
We look forward to seeing you there.
TRIAL LAUNCH: DOGS AND CAMPFIRES AT SELECTED
CARAVAN PARK SITES THIS WINTER
Barwon Coast will be trialling the inclusion of dogs and campfires at selected caravan park campsites during the winter low season. The trial will run from Thursday 12 June to Friday 12 September 2025.
COLLENDINA • OCEAN GROVE • BREAMLEA
BARWON HEADS • 13TH BEACH
HONOURING THE VOLUNTEERS WHO HELP CARE FOR THE COAST
Across our region, volunteers play a vital role in caring for our coast. Whether through organised groups or individual efforts, their work supports the health of our environment and the enjoyment of coastal spaces by the whole community.
The trial will take place at Barwon Heads, Riverview Family, and Breamlea Caravan Parks — with dogs only (no campfires) at Breamlea.
During the trial, the community will be able to walk their dogs through the parks on lead. This initiative responds to long-standing feedback from campers and the local community, and aims to explore whether limited, seasonal flexibility could work in our parks.
A dedicated feedback channel will be open throughout the trial so visitors and community members can share their experiences.
From weeding and planting to monitoring, educating, and cleaning up litter, to patrolling our beaches to keep everyone safe, volunteers contribute time, skills, and care to protect our environment and community. Their efforts help preserve biodiversity, improve habitat, and strengthen our connection to place.
Ahead of National Volunteer Week (19-25 May 2025) Barwon Coast extends our sincere thanks to all who contribute. Your commitment and community spirit make a lasting impact.
We value the energy, knowledge, and dedication you bring. Because of you, our coast is healthier, more resilient, and better cared for.
To everyone who gives their time to support the coast - and their community - thank you.
FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM!
We are now on Instagram!
Follow us for coastal updates, conservation projects and ways to get involved in caring for the coast!
The Foreshore Master Plan Community Reference Group
Barwon Coast will commence a three-month trial of allowing dogs and campfires at selected campsites on Friday, 12 June, 2025.
Kate McLean with fellow Bellarine Community Health staff. (Supplied)
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Celebrating volunteers
By Cr Trent Sullivan
Next week is National Volunteer Week (19–25 May), and here in Ocean Grove, it’s a great excuse to give a well-deserved shoutout to locals who are making a real difference.
More than 300 volunteers work tirelessly across numerous programs coordinated by the City of Greater Geelong and they each play an essential role in keeping our community connected and thriving.
This year’s theme, ‘Connecting Communities’, celebrates the power of volunteering to bring people together and create lasting relationships.
Youdon’thavetolookfartoseeourvolunteers in action. They’re everywhere, quietly rolling up their sleeves and getting things done.
Take the TAC L2P Program, which has recently received a dedicated new car based in Ocean Grove.
The TAC L2P program pairs young people between the ages of 16 and 21 (and in some circumstances, up to 23) with fully licenced volunteer mentors in supervised driving sessions.
The program aims to help young people who would not otherwise have access to a vehicle or licenced driver.
Foryounglocalstryingtogettheir120hours of supervised driving, that’s a game changer.
It means they’re not stuck trying to organise lessons miles away, and it’s all thanks to our fantastic group of local volunteers who jump in the passenger seat and help these learners find their confidence.
Meanwhile, over at the Potato Shed in Drysdale, volunteers keep the place buzzing. They’re the friendly faces you see at the door or who usher you to your seat. This committed group of volunteers also serve at the canteen
and help with the setup and pack down after shows.
Volunteering isn’t just for a specific type of person. It doesn’t matter if you’re young or old, working or retired, experienced or just keen to help. There’s something for everyone.
Whether you’re keen to help a young driver, share your love of the arts, or have a chat with someone who needs a friendly face, there’s a place for you. If you’ve ever thought about giving it a go, now’s your chance.
The City of Greater Geelong has a stack of opportunities, so please visit our website for more info geelongaustralia.com.au/volunteer
Even giving an hour or two here and there can make a real difference – not just to others,buttoyouaswell.Plentyofresearch showsthatvolunteeringcanincreaseyour life satisfaction and happiness.
Finally, we’re putting the call out for community members to nominate local seniors for the 2025 Victorian Senior of the Year Awards.
Do you know an older person who volunteers their skills, time and energy to make Greater Geelong a better and fairer place to live?
Hosted by the Victorian Government, there are six categories to consider:
1. Premier’s Award for Victorian Senior of the Year
2. Council on the Ageing (COTA) Victoria Senior Achiever Awards
3. Emerging Impact Award
4. Positive Ageing Award
5. Promotion of Multiculturalism Award
6. Veteran Community Award
For more information on eligibility criteria and how to nominate someone, visit seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/awards. Nominations close Sunday 1 June.
New 2 and 3-bedroom homes are now selling from $529,000** at Ingenia Lifestyle Lakeside Lara.
your home before 30 June and receive $20,000 off the purchase price when you settle by 23 December 2025*
Leopold ward councillor Trent Sullivan. (Supplied)
The AstroTurfs ready for launch
By Matt Hewson
It’s not easy pushing the boundaries of interstellar space, but someone’s got to do it.
For the past five or so years, Geelong space rockers The AstroTurfs have been taking audiences across the universe under the direction of frontman Tom Stevenson.
On May 23 the seven-piece will take to the Barwon Club Hotel to celebrate Stevenson’s 31st birthday and, just maybe, announce the release of new tracks.
“Especially for this show, I think the party vibes are going to be really high,” Stevenson
said. “People can expect a whole lot of chaos, headbanging… you can expect someone’s going to end up on the floor, because at least one of us usually falls over. Yeah, it’s going to be a good time.”
Stevenson, who began gigging when he was 14, abruptly left the scene in 2017 after experiencing a feeling of burnout and dissatisfaction with music.
“I’d been playing music for what felt like a really long time and didn’t feel like I’d gotten anywhere,” he said.
“I was playing the same stuff that I’d played for the last ten years to the same people in the
Boogie time in Geelong
With disco’s post-COVID rise in popularity, bands are tapping into the music’s infectious and feel-good energy.
Sydney-based band Disco Revolution, which formedinWollongongin2019,werewellplaced to take advantage of genre’s resurgence when live music returned fully after the pandemic.
Drummer and founder Chris Mitrevski said disco seemed to inspire people to let go of self-consciousness and have a good time.
“People do really lose their inhibitions with this music,” Mitrevski said.
“We’ve had 18-year-olds to 80-year-olds on the dance floor… they dress how they want, no onecareshowtheylookorhowtheydance,and they dance all night. And that’s reminiscent of that era, back in the day.”
The six-piece band, featuring multiple vocalists and American-born saxophonist Mariela Mulder, plays classic disco tunes from
artists like ABBA, the Village People, Hot Chocolate, Earth, Wind & Fire and Boney M. Mitrevski said they provided a “night of sensory overload”.
“The show’s very Studio 54 inspired, all the classics from that era,” he said. “It’s full of energy, from the moment they walk through the door to the moment they leave.
“We have a DJ on board who’s playing whilst everyone’s coming in, then the band plays two massive sets for about two and a half hours all up, and then the DJ finishes the show off, so they can keep dancing if they want.
“We’re in full costume, all glammed up, great light show, energy to the max from start to finish. Everyone that turns up will go home smiling.”
Disco Revolution is at The Wool Exchange on Saturday, May 24. Visit oztix.com.au for tickets.
Last chance for nominations
City of Greater Geelong has extended the community consultation period for the Geelong Youth Survey until 11.59pm Sunday 18 May to allow for more young people to tell uswhattheyvalueandthechallengestheyface.
The survey only takes five minutes and will identify key themes around young people’s wellbeing, education, employment, leisure, and safety.
So far, there have been had more than 2000 contributions via our online survey at yoursay. geelongaustralia.com.au/GYS2025 or at drop-in sessions with youth staff.
The survey is open to young people aged 12 to 25, parents, carers, those who work at education or tertiary institutions, and interested community members. By sharing their ideas and insights, young people can go into the draw to win a Nintendo Switch, Kindle, iPad, wireless headphones, a portable Bluetooth speaker or one of five $100 Westfield vouchers.
same place, so I stepped away and I didn’t play. As much as possible I purged music from my life, sold all my gear.”
Stevenson may have felt done with music, but it wasn’t done with him. Stepping back from playing created a space, into which new musical ideas soon began pouring.
“All of this material started coming out, but I wasn’t able to facilitate it, so I did a lot of writingusingmyphoneandGarageBandtoget this music out of my head,” he said.
Thus the seed of The AstroTurfs was sown.
Stevenson invited a hand-picked bunch of musicians to join him on his space odyssey
involving big existential themes, “and just throwing in some loud guitars and a bunch of synthesisers”.
“Aslooselyconnectedassomeofthematerial was, I wanted everything to revolve around space exploration and longing for the answers to big questions,“ he said.
“It’s cool to kind of work within this box and then try to see how far you can push the boundaries of it before it breaks.”
For the birthday celebration The AstroTurfs will be joined at the Barwon Club by The Refuge and Barracouta.
Doors open 8pm.
Greater Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj said there was still time to have your say and enter the competition.
“Abigthankyoutothecommunitymembers who have taken the time to contribute to our Geelong Youth Survey,” Mayor Kontelj said.
“The more responses we receive, either online or in person, the clearer the picture we will have about the experience of growing up in Geelong.
“This will mean we can better tailor programs, events, and opportunities young people would like to see from council.”
“It’s awesome to see people my own age be able to participate in advancing Greater Geelong to help the youth more effectively, as well as potentially earn some great prizes at the same time,“ Junior Mayor of Youth Council Ayush Singh said. “The Youth Council is looking forward to using the information collectedfromthesurveystobettersupportthe young community.“
ThePharmacyPilotProgram isimprovingaccessto healthcareintheBellarine.
There are seven local pharmacies on the Bellarine included in this pilot offering pharmacy consultations for:
UTIs
Mild skin conditions
Resupply of the contraceptive pill
A range of vaccinations for travel and other health vaccines
Junior Mayor Ayush Singh, Mayor Stretch Kontelj OAM and Deputy Junior Mayor Alanah Forbes.
Get your groove on with Disco Revolution at The Wool Exchange. (Supplied)
Celebrating different cultures during Education Week
From Monday May 19 to Friday May 23, Victorian schools will come alive with vibrant activities and community engagement as part of Education Week.
This annual event honours the achievements of public education across the state.
This year’s theme, Celebration of Cultures, underscores the rich diversity within Victorian school communities and emphasises the importance of inclusivity and cultural understanding.
Activities throughout the week are designed to foster a sense of belonging and mutual respect among all participants.
The Celebration of Cultures theme invites students, educators, families, and the broader community to explore and share the myriad cultural backgrounds that contribute to the fabric of Victorian schools.
The Victorian government provides a range of resources to support schools and families during Education Week. These include activity ideas, discussion prompts, and educational materials aimed at promoting cultural
awareness and inclusivity.
Education Week is an opportunity for everyone to participate in celebrating the diverse cultures that enrich Victorian schools. Whether through attending school events, engaging in classroom activities, or initiating conversations about cultural heritage at home, there are numerous ways to be involved.
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)
‘‘ It was a really beautiful experience, but reality quickly came swinging back in ... I started losing my hair and that’s when I was like, ‘oh, I’ve got cancer’ ’’ - Isla Foy
A journey of agony and ecstasy
Leopold’s Isla Foy is an ambassador and participant during this year’s Mother’s Day Classic in Geelong. Jena Carr speaks with the mother of two about her experience of being diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer while pregnant with her youngest son.
Cancer does not discriminate, not even during a pregnancy, which is a situation Leopold’s Isla Foy knows all too well.
The now 36-year-old noticed something was wrong about two years ago when she felt a mosquito bite-like pain on her chest during her 26th week of pregnancy.
“As the weeks went on, it started to get a bit more painful and eventually, I was in a lot of pain and my left breast was quite inflamed,” she said.
“It was very red, my nipple had started changing colour, and it was rock hard, so it was not doing well at all.”
Following an appointment with her general practitioner, Isla was referred to a breast screening clinic. Up until noon on August 10, 2023, Isla was under the assumption that she just had a “really bad infection”.
“It was a day I will never forget. I thought I was going in for a twenty-minute scan to confirmaninfectionormastitis(inflammation of breast tissue). I was so wrong,” she said.
“When we went to the ultrasound room, the tech was scanning my breasts. She had a good look at the left breast, and the whole screen was just white. So, I was like, ‘Okay, that doesn’t look good’.
“They took me through to another room where they did a mammogram (x-ray of breast tissue) and told me to go back to the room I was in.
“The doctor came in and said, ‘We think you’ve got cancer. It’s very aggressive and you need to get this treated as soon as possible’. The other words; you don’t really hear them as you are just in shock.”
Five days later, Isla received the official diagnosisoftriplepositivestagethreeinvasive ductal breast cancer.
“While my family and I took a few days to digest the news, I realised quite quickly I wanted to fight this disease head on,” she said.
“Because I was pregnant, doctors didn’t know where else the cancer may have gone, so we had to treat it like it had gone elsewhere.
“Although pregnancy and cancer are rare, it does happen, and thankfully, there’s been enough research behind it to say that the chemicals (from the treatments) themselves don’t reach through the placenta.
“I wanted to wait until I’ve birthed my baby to start treatments, but my doctor did not want me to wait. So, that was a key indicator that, if we did wait, I might not have been here today.”
Isla began chemotherapy treatments on Wednesday, August 23, 2023. Two days later, she went into early labour and gave birth to her youngest son, Freddie, on the following Monday.
“Once we knew we were having Freddie, we decided the word ‘cancer’ would not be mentioned so we could focus on a positive birth experience,” she said.
“It was an amazing day under the circumstances. My husband was in the room and my mum was also invited to be there with me, which was really nice.
“It was a really beautiful experience, but reality quickly came swinging back in when the day after Father’s Day (September 3, 2023), I started losing my hair and that’s when I was like, ‘oh, I’ve got cancer’.”
Isla continued with her second round of chemotherapy two weeks after Freddie was born and has gone through 16 rounds since her diagnosis.
“Itwasmythirdorfourthroundoftreatment when I was at a really low point where I didn’t have energy. It was even difficult to hold my newborn,” she said.
“He felt really heavy even though he was only three kilos. I felt horrible and that I was doing a terrible job as a mother, but my husband told me that even talking to and
touching him made a big difference.”
Isla had her last targeted treatment on October 8, 2024, following a single mastectomy (surgical removal of a breast), an axillary clearance (surgical removal of lymph nodes)andcompleting15roundsofradiation.
“Positivity does get you a long way through cancer and it is important to deal with every step of the journey one step at a time,” she said.
“I had connected with a lady on social media who was the same age as me, pregnant with cancer, had a toddler the same age as my eldest and was expecting another one a little bit younger than Freddie.
“We would talk about our treatments and how we were all going. She ended up ringing me from where she lived in the United States, and we had a funny chat.
“I decided that I had to meet her one day. But when I hadn’t heard from her in a long time, I had a really bad feeling. I put her name in a Google search and found an ‘in memory of’ her.
“Sadly, my husband’s mother also got diagnosed with breast cancer in late 2023, and she then passed away in February 2024.
“This disease is so not fair. You are alive,
but then you get things like survivor’s guilt, or you get a bit anxious when your scans come up or if there’s a pain somewhere.”
Isla said she was grateful for the love and support from her husband Trevor and two sons, three-year-old Bailey and 20-month-old Freddie.
Her youngest son was also diagnosed with a skull condition a few months after he was born called left unicoronal craniosynostosis, where a side of the skull prematurely fuses and leads to a deformed head shape.
The condition required Freddie to have major surgery on his skull, which he successfully completed last year.
“As a mother, it is terrifying when you find out your young son will require quite intensive surgery himself,” she said.
“My boys have two very different personalities, but they’re very cute, and I love them so much. I feel super lucky, and Freddie kind of hinted that I had cancer.
“If I wasn’t pregnant, I possibly wouldn’t know that I had cancer because my symptoms changed so much from pregnancy hormones. He’s my little guardian angel.”
Isla became an ambassador for the National Breast Cancer Foundation in 2024 and participated in the annual Mother’s Day Classic at Geelong’s Eastern Park on Sunday, May 11.
The 5km run and walk event was designed to bring people together to raise awareness and funds for breast and ovarian cancer research.
“I want others to know that they’re definitely not alone... and we’ve got such a great community in Geelong,” Isla said.
“I understand not everyone wants to be open about their journeys, and that is completely fine. I share my story for the ones that don’t want to speak up... Once you’ve had cancer, you’re a changed person.”
Isla Foy, 36, with 20-month-old son Freddie.
Isla Foy was pregnant with her second son Freddie close to two years ago when she was diagnosed with an aggressive form of breast cancer. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 476211
Shopping local in Ocean Grove
Voice photographer Ivan Kemp went to The Terrace in Ocean Grove on Monday to see who was shopping local.
Above: Virginia Kingsford with Pam and Margie Hawke. Below: Carol Carland (left), and Laura and Barry White.
Narelle Stone, and right, Tara Wood.
Ivan Jurcevic.
Left: Tanya and Max Burns. Centre: Pieter Bettink and Olga Cross. Right: Kate Braden (right) with her son Louis and her mother Chris. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 477276
First flame robin autumn sighting
It’s been a very mild few weeks, with beautiful still, sunny days, and very little rain.
This is perfect weather for birdwatching, but not great for waterways and farms that are in desperate need of rain.
I saw my first flame robin of the autumn when I was walking (unfortunately without my camera) in Oakdene Estate near Jenelle Crescent in Ocean Grove.
The beautiful male flame robin was on a fence feeding on insects. The bird remained in this spot for a few days, and then disappeared.
I saw an Australian hobby in the same vicinity a few days later, so I’m hoping that the flame robin did not fall victim to this bird catcher.
I was walking in the car park behind the OceanGroveshopsneartheColessupermarket one morning when to my surprise I saw a small flock of singing honeyeaters and a few spiny-cheeked honeyeaters in the banksia trees in the car park. I was quite surprised as usually these birds are seen in the dunes around the beach, and I didn’t expect to see them in the car park, and I hope that they avoid getting hit by my cars there.
I had a lovely trip to Western Treatment Plant with Lizzy and Stephen from Barwon Heads. We bumped into a couple who told us they had seen a pair of orange-bellied parrots, but we didn’t spot them.
We did see a lovely flock of red-necked avocets, as well as a few red-kneed dotterels and fairy terns.
I received an email from Carole, who told me that all of the campers have disappeared from the St Leonards foreshore back to the city and work, so the next arrivals, namely flocks of little corellas, have taken full advantage. The camping grounds are covered with hungry visitors and the trees are packed with those awaiting their turn.
I’ve also noticed many little corellas in Ocean Grove.
I received an email from Alan who is currently on a road trip with his wife Anne. Alan emailed from Myrtleford, where they stopped to check out the autumn leaves but of course Alan had to check out the birds as well.
FROM THE ARCHIVES
Alan noted that it is extremely busy around Bright with ‘leaf lovers’ as the locals call tourists at this time of year.
Onawalkalongtherivertotheswingbridge there were so many photo opportunities for gang gang cockatoos, satin bowerbirds and king parrots aplenty.
Back at Myrtleford, Alan and Anne ventured 20 minutes out to Lake Buffalo and saw several flame robins along the way but at the lake itself they wandered amongst at least a dozen hopping around the reeds only metres away.
Alanwasalsosurprisedtofindwhite-bellied sea eagles flying around the lake. This lake is full of bird life with different raptors, water birds, parrots and smaller birds. This sounds like heaven.
Ocean Grove Voice looks back through the pages of our predecessors
8 years ago
May 10 to 23, 2017
The Barwon Coast Committee of Management (BCCM) has called for tenders for a new 21-year lease at the Dunes Cafe site of the Ocean Grove Surf Beach complex. The open public tender process, which is consistent with Victorian Governmentpolicyanddirection,hasbeen timed to co-incide with the planning phase for a significant upgrade to the complex, which will include a $271,877 State Government grant to Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club for the construction of a new patrol tower.
6 years ago
May 22 to June 4, 2019
A 7 per cent swing in Ocean Grove to Labor’s Libby Coker appears to have helped unseatLiberalMPSarahHenderson.While the formal result of the federal election’s seat of Corangamite was still undecided by the time the Voice went to print, it looked likely that Ms Coker would win the seat that Ms Henderson has held since 2013.
4 years ago
May 21 to June 3, 2021
BarwonHeadsTennisClubwasabigwinner in yesterday’s 2020-21 state government budget. The club received up to $275,000 through the Local Sports Infrastructure Fund and the Female Friendly Facilities Fund to upgrade its facilities.
2 years ago
May 19 to June 1, 2023
A second battle to save Barwon Heads Library from permanent closure has begun, just five years after people power won the day. The library was slated for closure, along with libraries at Highton and Chilwell, in 2018, but a public backlash resulted in council reversing its decision, allowing it to stay in operation.
Alan’s female flame robin at Lake Buffalo.
Carole’s little corellas at St Leonards.
PUZZLES
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must
ACROSS
1 One who believes in sharing evenly amongst the community (9)
6 Majestic (4)
10 Possessive pronoun (3)
11 Notorious dispute (11)
12 Of cooking (8)
13 Situate (6)
14 Without (arch) (4)
15 Hitchhiker'sGuide author,
– Adams (7)
20 Enterprise (7)
21 Not genuine (4)
25 Invisible (6)
26 Tied up (8)
28 Offender (11)
29 Special effects (1,1,1)
30 US university (4)
31 Not at all sleepy (4-5)
DOWN
1 Patience (8)
2 US state, North – (8)
3 Climb (6)
4 Closest to the centre (9)
5 Duration (4)
7 Package (6)
8 Wild dog native to North America (6)
9 Infested (7)
16 Clothed (9)
17 Erased (7)
18 US actress who portrayed Allison Dubois, – Arquette (8)
19 News title (8)
22 Provide, furnish (6)
23 Of the stars (6)
24 Himalayan mountain person (6)
27 The bow of a ship (4)
1 Who wrote the novel ACuppa TeaandanAspirin? 2 The Crucible Theatre in Sheffield, UK is home to which annual tournament?
3 In Norse mythology, what is the name for the world tree?
4 Elizabeth Barrett Browning was an English a) poet, b) singer or c) actress?
5 What does the phrase ‘per contra’ mean?
TheJazzSinger
7 In what year did the division of Korea take place?
8 Which famous gem was extracted from the Kollur Mine in Guntur, India in the 17th century?
9 What is the name of the town in the Netflix TV series StrangerThings?
10 Karen Gillan (pictured) plays which character in the Marvel cinematic universe?
No. 269 No. 237
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.
Ocean Grove Snooker Club
Avenue Avengers 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
Bellarine Historical Society Inc.
Salute to Old Mill Portarlington exhibition and talk, May 18, 10.30am-4 pm, talk at 2pm. 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 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, 10.45am-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
Live music
Bellarine Country Music Group meets Friday nights at Belmont Park Pavilion, music 7-10pm, $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 1.30pm-3.30pm.
No experience necessary. Just a desire to keep fit and have fun.
Megan 0439-317 344
CWA Nightlights Ocean Grove
CWA Nightlights Ocean Grove meets the first and third Monday of the month, 2.30pm, Seniors Club, 102 The Terrace,
Portarlington playgroup Experience play in an unstructured, relaxed environment. Large indoor space with toilets and baby change facilities. Suits 0-4 years. Free to attend. Wednesdays 10-11.30am, Parks Hall Portarlington.
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 from 1pm to 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
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 Day VIEW
Meets second Wednesday of the month at 360Q, Queenscliff, 10.30am for 11am.
oceangroveday.viewclub@gmail.com
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
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
Out and about
Voice photographer Ivan Kemp was at Ocean Grove main beach on Monday May 12 to see who was out and about on a sunny day.
1/ Lauren McGuckin and Maddie Lamb just out of the surf. 2/ Dawn and Peter Wisbey. 3/ Taryn Paten on
4/ Chloe Leen. 5/ Hugo Menou about to hit the surf. 6/ Emily Hazell. 7/ Ann Sherwell. 8/ Stephen Thomson with his grandson Henry. 9/ Keiha Heppel with Frank and Amali Butcher with Gilbert. 10/ Jan Reader and brother Clive Baulch with their 98-year-old mother Christina. 11/ Allira Elms and Lil Cousens after a surf. 12/ Norbert and Sharon Heimeier on a walk. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 477277
Business DIRECTORY
ACCOUNTING SERVICES
RocheAccounting 52562764
ANTENNAS
ArrowAntennas 0439785703
KendallAntennaServices 0404019781
AUTOMOTIVE
AutoCareOceanGrove(Repco) 52551045
GardinerAutomotive 52555380
BUILDING DESIGNERS
MichaelHigginsBuildingDesign 52553355
BUTCHERS
Benno’sMeatingPlace 52541828
CHIMNEY SWEEPS
A1ChimneySweep&Co 0426897479
CONVEYANCING
VinesConveyancing 52554480
CLEANING AND LAUNDRY
AussieCleaning&Laundry 0430215264
DENTAL
DrysdaleDentureServices RyanDavies 52511683
OceanGroveDentureServices RyanDavies 52554533
ELECTRICIAN
GavinBurnettElectrical 0467554941
• All advertisements must be pre-paid. For $29.00 you get a 4 line, ONE ITEM ONLY advertisement, restricted to “For Sale” or “Motoring” items only for private advertisers, run initially for 13 weeks or until sold. Additional lines will be charged at $3 per line per publication.
• After your advertisement has run for 13 weeks you must call us each fortnight to renew it for a further 2 week period AND reduce the price of your item by a minimum 5% for items in the “For Sale” section or 3% for items in the “Motoring” section. This process may continue until you have sold your item. If we do not hear from you we will assume you have sold your item and your advertisement will not appear.
The sale price must be included in the advertisement and the only alterations you may make are to the
Heads win Battle of the Bridge
Barwon Heads retained the Battle of the Bridge bragging rights with a 77-point win against Ocean Grove in front of a big crowd at Steeline Ray Menzies Oval on Saturday May 10 and Justin Flynn was there to capture some of the action.
Jye Walker gets clear.
Jhdara Jones marks and then would go back to kick a goal, and right, Jet Kneebone finds space.
Jai Hale keeps his feet and clears for Ocean Grove.
Left: Sammy Baker boots the ball forward. Centre: Harry Hyland kicks into forward 50. Right: Lachie Wilson gets there before Jai Hale. (Pictures: Justin Flynn) 476565
Above: Jamison Hallam gets front position and takes a good grab. Below left: Kye Annand takes a good grab with opposition from Sonni Walter. Below right: Gus Bourke kicks, but would later be on the bench with an injury.
Damian McMahon is under pressure.
Michael Philp gets onto his left foot.
Hugo Walsh gets the Grubbers on the attack.
Grubbers win bridge battle
Ocean Grove remained unbeaten with a 55 to 34 win against Barwon Heads at Ray Menzies Oval on Saturday May 10. Justin Flynn was there to snap these photographs.
Grubbers’ mascots for the day Amali, Billie, Tilly, Kenzie, Brianna and Milla.
Kaia Giles faces opposition from Georgia Berry.
Arlee Bennett was lively in attack.
Amanda O’Malley in defence.
Ashton O’Brien with the ball.
Chelsea Baker passes to Perri Jones.
Left: Zanna Woods was outstanding for Ocean Grove. Centre: Emily Moroney finds some space. Right: Courtney Leith stands tall. (Pictures: Justin Flynn) 476564
Perri Jones passes to Krystal Baker, and Gemma Bell looks for her options.
Hamlyn Park treasures Triples win
Tennis Geelong’s Triples season wrapped with premierships across Section 2 through 6, a week after Moolap Two Phones Chol won their eighth premiership in Section 1.
In Section 2, Hamlyn Park H.E.A.T. had a strong season, leading the ladder wire-to-wire through the 10-week season with a 9-0-1 record.
Moolap Spin Doctors, with two teenagers, snuck into the grand final past their Moolap Zing Kings counterparts in round 10 with a stronger result. With more than a 150 percent lead in ladder points and only three weeks after a 5-1 35-15 win over the Spin Doctors, it seemed that the H.E.A.T. were a solid favourite to win their first Triples premiership.
The Spin Doctors had other plans on the night, with father-son combo Luca and Barboros Kara taking the number 1 doubles set over Cameron Harris and Lou Arzanovski 6-4.
and Jones were able to break serve as Moolap served for the set and came back to win the set in a tiebreaker 6-5. Tood Morgan won the number 2 singles set for Hamlyn Park 6-4 over Barboros Kara, so the H.E.A.T. took a two-set and four-game lead into the last two sets. Needing to win both of the last two sets, Moolap put up a good fight, but Hamlyn’s experience won out, with Martin and Angelo Traficante taking the number 3 doubles 6-3 over the elder Kara and Peck, and Cameron Harris winning the number 1 singles 6-5 over young Luca Kara, sealing a 5-1 34-26 result.
The first two sets resulted in one 6-5 tiebreaker win for each team, but three of the next four sets were 6-0 results, with two to Drysdale and one to Highton.
The Fat Magpies’ Nathan Jorgensen won two games in his number 2 singles loss to Martin Costello, and those two games proved to be the difference sealing his team’s premiership.
Hamlyn’s Ed Jones came back with a surprise 6-3 singles win over Moolap’s young star Jake Peck, who also played in the Section 1 grand final the week prior. The younger Kara and Peck took a lead over Harris and Jones in the number 2 doubles set, but Harris
Hamlyn Park H.E.A.T team captain Lou Arzanovski said he was relieved to “finally win one” premiership after losing in the grand final the last two years, and he was proud of his team’s “gritty and gutsy effort…to turn around three of the winning sets when 2-5 or 2-4 down”.
Section 3 saw Drysdale’s Fat Magpies win the closest final on paper, taking an away grand final over Highton’s Grown-Ups 3-3 25-23.
Local surfers excel at junior titles
After a thrilling weekend Ava Holland (Dromana) and Jerry Kelly (Barwon Heads) take out Round 3 in the Under 18 No TXT No Wrecks Victorian Junior Surfing Titles divisions, with Holland also claiming the Under 18 State Title alongside Jarvis Barrow (Jan Juc).
Day 1 of the competition brought plenty of excitement in quick succession, with both Under 14 divisions running through to the finals. It was a clean day down at Smiths Beach, with the sun shining and 2-foot peaks rolling through the lineup.
HeadingintotheUnder14BoysFinalitwasa tight battle with all four finalists in contention, adding extra weight to the heat ahead. Harlem Pec (Jan Juc) came out firing, opening his account with a dynamic 4.67 point ride for a crisp forehand snap full of energy. He quickly backed it up with a strong 5.83 point ride for two tight backhand snaps, establishing early dominance. Alby O’Day (Torquay) chipped away at his scoreline with several one-turn hits, while Teddy Robertson (Torquay) found momentum mid-heat.
As the final heated up, all surfers were still within striking distance, but Pec stayed in the lead, extending his advantage with a 6.17-point ride. Refusing to back down, Robertson answered with a powerful two-turn combo, earning him a 6.77 point ride and needed just a 5.23 point ride to overtake. Pec responded with a huge fin blow, raising the requirement
once more. In a dramatic final-minute twist, Robertson launched into a massive aerial off a steep lip, landing in the whitewater, a jaw-dropping maneuver that secured him the win for Round 3.
IntheUnder14GirlsFinal,EstellaCarbonelli (Jan Juc) opened strong with a 5.33-point ride, setting the early pace. Her fellow competitors stayed close, all logging mid-range scores in the first half of the heat. With six minutes remaining, Carbonelli improved her position with a stylish wrap into a quick slash, scoring a 7.17-point ride. However, Scarlett Rennie (Cape Woolamai) surged from behind. Carbonelli had one final attempt to reclaim the top spot, but the wave failed to deliver. With the ocean slowing and the clock winding down, Rennie held on for the Round 3 win.
Day 2 of the competition was moved to Cape Woolamai as the swell dropped at Smiths Beach.
In the Under 16 Girls Final, Chloe Muscroft (Jan Juc) briefly took the lead with two mid-range scores, but Rose Holland struck again with an impressive 8.67 point ride for a powerful re-entry on another left, locking in the win.
In the Under 16 Boys final, Kato Mogi (Belmont) briefly overtook the lead, but George Everest used his priority to catch a key wave to take out the round win.
In the Under 18 Girls Sara Hickson (Rye) struck first, smashing out a series of backhand
snaps on a left to score a 7.67 point ride. But it was Ava Holland who lit up the beach with a 10.00 point ride, linking together four massive backhand re-entries on the right. Despite the perfect score, Hickson’s strong backup ride kept her in the lead, with Holland needing just a 1.94 to overtake. She soon found a clean right and delivered multiple critical hits for a 6.83 point ride, jumping into first with five minutes remaining. As the ocean pulsed again, Holland paddled into a set wave and unleashed another flurry of powerful snaps, scoring an 8.17 point ride and putting the entire field into a combination situation. That dominant performance gave her the Round 3 victory— and the overall series win after also taking out Round 1.
In the Under 18 Boys final Remy Filer (Jan Juc) opened strong with a 6.83 point ride for a powerful forehand gouge, but Tarvi Woods (Fingal) responded with a pair of solid scores, taking the early lead. Jerry Kelly (Barwon Heads) stayed within striking distance after posting a 5.50 point ride and then turned the heatonwithan8.17pointride.Themomentum shiftedagainasKellyfoundanothersetandlaid into a powerful forehand layback, scoring an 8.50 point ride and solidifying his position out front. With most of the field in a combination situation, Kelly locked in the Round 3 win. However, in the points battle across the season, consistency paid off for Jarvis Barrow (Jan Juc), who was crowned the champion.
Leopold hosted the Section 4 and Section 6 grand finals against two Highton teams, providing an excellent showcase for their new clubhouse facilities. They were rewarded with premierships in both sections, with Section 4’s Deuce of Hazard winning their third premiership 4-2 30-25 over Kiss My Ace, not long after competing in last month’s Tennis Victoria League Championships.
Section 6’s Hit for Brains took advantage of untimely injuries and absences from Mid-CourtCrisestowincomfortably,5-134-6.
The Section 5 premiership was played at Lara,andthehomesidedefeatedCocoBewares 5-1 35-20.
‘Heater’ boost for the Giants
Geelong West Giants coach Greg Mellor said the decision to play former AFL star Heath Shaw on the weekend was made with consultation from the leadership group, which had considered the pros and cons.
In the end there were plenty of pros and not really any cons, so the decision was an easy one.
Shaw played 325 AFL games for Collingwood and Greater Western Sydney and made a one-off appearance forGeelongWestintheGeelongFootball League against Lara on May 10. Mellorsaidhehadtoweighupwhether having the 2010 premiership star for one game would benefit the club.
“We benefited significantly from it,” he said.
“We felt like there was an opportunity because we already had a couple of changes anyway from our senior side... Lachie Taylor was suspended and David Hanley was injured. With such a really young team with our senior group, there’s eleven players twenty and under, so I just think for the overall balance of the footy club, it was a positive.”
Mellor said Shaw brought more to the club than playing footy.
“He played for nothing, he paid his own registration fee,” he said.
“He just gave his all, his time and energy and he was committed. I said ‘where do you want to play?’ and he said ‘mate, you’re the coach, I’ll play anywhere’.”
The Giants debuted Oscar Leavold on the day and he was presented with his jumper alongside Shaw.
“He (Shaw) embraced all of that and the jumper presentation and he got his and said ‘look, I’m really competitive and I’m competitive at everything you guysI want to win and I want to play well’.”
Shaw even bobbed up for a goal late in the game. Lachie Horniblow had nine majors, but passed it off to Shaw, who kicked truly from 40 metres out on the boundary line and turned to the crowd to celebrate before being mobbed by his new teammates.
“He’s a bloke who’s nearly 40, he’s just invested in the game and invested in playing the right way and the players just loved it,” Mellor said.
“He was just a terrific human really.”
Justin Flynn
LOCAL TENNIS
Tyler Krumholz
Hamlyn Park H.E.A.T.’s Cameron Harris, Todd Morgan, Lou Arzanovski, Angelo Traficante and Ed Harris. (Supplied)
Under 18 Boys podium. (Noah Clifford (moshxmedia) / Surfing Victoria / Tommy Williams)
Signs of improvement for Grove
By Justin Flynn
Sometimes in footy the scoreboard doesn’t reflect the true nature of how a game pans out. That could certainly be said for Ocean Grove’s past two matches, but for different reasons.
In round 5, the Grubbers didn’t score until halfway through the third quarter before kicking six goals in the final term to add some semblance of respectability to the scoreboard.
In truth the 73-point loss probably felt like a 100-point plus scoreline.
Fast forward one week and a Mitch Herbison masterclass gave Barwon Heads a 77-point victory against the Grubbers, but in general play it felt a lot closer.
Veteran Herbison booted eight goals and the Seagulls looked slick in front of a big crowd at Steeline Ray Menzies Oval.
“At the end of the day the scoreboard is what you’re judged by and that wasn’t pretty,” Ocean Grove coach Dave Farrell said.
“Barwon Heads finished off their work much better than us, but there were some terrific patches of play from both sides.
“The ball moved up and down the ground, our mids got on top around stoppages and our second quarter in particular highlighted what our group is capable of.”
Herbison used his body brilliantly to take many contested marks and finished off his good work in front of the sticks.
“Super impressive game from Mitch, anchored deep and used body and space so well,” Farrell said.
“The way they kicked the ball to him and his contestedworkweregreatexamplestoourboys in what it can look like when we move the ball deliberately and put defenders under pressure.”
While the Queenscliff game was a definite lowlight of the season, Farrell said his group wiped the slate clean pretty quickly.
“They’re a resilient group, they hate losing but love being together,” he said. \“We had 56 players roll up ready to work hard Tuesday and after a quick chat we were all really clear about what the week needed to look like.
“We certainly had to pick each other up quickly and dust ourselves off after the Queenscliff game as every week there is a new opportunity. Our review was quite short and really focussed on a couple of areas only, our balance around contested situations and ball use in the centre third going forward.
“There’s plenty of other areas our group is working away at but we thought they were the
two that are holding us back the most and there were some improving signs in this week’s game against Barwon Heads.”
Captain Joe McDonald injured a hamstring early in the round 6 game, but with a general bye this weekend, he may only miss a couple of matches.
Gus Bourke had a recurrence of a quad tendon injury.
Ocean Grove’s next opponent is Geelong Amateur, which lost its first game of the season on Saturday against a young and hungry Queenscliff.
“I’m sure Ammos’ result on the weekend would have stung them a little and they will come out with a resolve about them,” Farrell said.
“Rather than our group being nervous about that, we’ll look to embrace it. They are the
in-form, standout side of the first six rounds and if they are going to take that up a level it will be our greatest opportunity to learn more about ourselves and develop as a group.”
TORQUAY continued its resurrection with a 13-point win against a Modewarre team that is continuing to improve. McKenzie Burns was best for the Tigers and Oscar Hocking best for the Warriors.
DRYSDALEcamefrombehind to defeat Newcomb by a point. Down by 35 points late in the first half, the Hawks booted eight of the next 10 goals with key defender Jack Jenkins standing tall.
ANGLESEA won its second thriller in a row with a four-point win against Portarlington. AydenGrasbootedeightfortheSeaswhileTeia Miles kicked five for the Dees.
QUEENSCLIFF hung on to hand Geelong Amateur its first loss of the season with Izaac Grant booting five and Jayden McHenry four.
Grubbers set up huge Ammos clash on May 24
Unbeaten Bellarine Netball League A Grade sides Geelong Amateur and Ocean Grove will resume their rivalry on May 24 after a general bye this weekend.
It’s the match everyone has been waiting for. Ammos have gone through the past two seasons unbeaten up until the grand final, where the Grubbers have taken premiership glory.
It looks like it will be a similar situation this season.
“We’re looking forward to it so we’ll enjoy the weekend off and then get ready to prepare for Ammos,” Ocean Grove coach Mel Holmes said.
“It’s only percentage that separates the two teams and I know the girls are looking forward to it and having a look at the way Ammos go about it. At the end of the day, this isn’t the one that matters, but it’s good to have a look.”
Ocean Grove dispatched a physical, and at times impressive, Barwon Heads 55 to 34 while Ammos were very good in defeating third-placed Queenscliff.
Barwon Heads took it right up to the Grubbers in the first quarter and weren’t intimidated by their higher ranked opponents and were very physical.
(Pictures:
Scores were level at the first break, but Ocean Grove gradually got on top.
“It was physical and we took a moment to adjust our style,” Holmes said.
“I was pleased that we won and played our gameandkepttryingtosticktoourgameplan. Wehadaslowerstart,butonceweadjustedand
found our groove we were able to put the foot down.”
The best match-up of the day was Barwon Heads attackers Krystal Baker and Kaia Giles on Ocean Grove defenders Georgia Berry and Amanda O’Malley.
Baker in particular was lively around the
ring, which forced Holmes to adjust her defensive set up to quell her influence.
Grove captain Emily Moroney copped a corkie and star goaler Zanna Woods looked bothered by an elbow complaint, but Holmes said both would line up in round 9.
Newcomb won a thriller by one goal against Drysdale. Carly Sanders was again dangerous in attack while Mia Fallon was superb in defence for the Hawks.
Anglesea and Portarlington couldn’t be separated and each team walked away with two points after finishing the game on 49 goals apiece. Midcourter Scarlotte Benney was Anglesea’s best and goal shooter Tully Bethune was unstoppable for Port with 44 goals.
Geelong Amateur had Queenscliff’s measure for most of the day with a 42 to 30 win. Kayla Donnellon was on fire in attack with 35 goals and Zoey Shaw was terrific at wing defence. Ebony Ralph did all she could for the Coutas at goal defence.
Torquay defeated Modewarre 71 to 24 with Julia Allan-Goodwin starring at wing attack while Grace Hunt was busy at goal attack for the Warriors.
Justin Flynn
Perri Jones and Georgia Ryan do battle, and Georgia Berry was brilliant at goal keeper.
Justin Flynn) 476564
Above: Mitch Herbison is congratulated by teammates after kicking one of his eight goals. Left: Adam Walsh clears with teammates all around him. (Pictures: Justin Flynn) 476565