Netballers do Grove proud
The footy and netball season is flying by. Soon we will be at the halfway mark of the season.
On Saturday Ocean Grove ventured to Queens Park to take on Geelong Amateur including Grubbers’ D Grade goaler Lily Davis, who is pictured with her niece Addison.
Ocean Grove was given a harsh lesson the senior footy, but turned the tables on Ammos in the A Grade netball, getting a win in what was a battle between the Bellarine Netball League’s only two unbeaten sides.
This Saturday Ocean Grove plays host to Drysdale at Steeline Ray Menzies Oval with the netball action beginning with the 13 & Unders at 8.15am.
On the oval, the Under 18s kick off the day’s footy at 10am.
See Out & About on page 21 and Sport beginning on page 27 for more pictures and stories.
Sporting plan tick
By Matt Hewson
Three years after resolving to begin community consultation on the project, the City of Greater Geelong has officially adopted the Ocean Grove Sporting Infrastructure Plan (OGSIP).
Council approved the final plan on Tuesday, voting unanimously to redevelop and upgrade the six outdoor sporting facilities covered by the plan: Shell Road, Memorial, Collendina, Devlins Road, Arthur Powell and Wallington recreation reserves.
The plan was scheduled to come before councillors at their March meeting, but was pushed back to allow for further
engagement with clubs and other groups.
Support for the final plan has now been providedinwritingbyallkeystakeholders.
Connewarre Ward councillor Elise Wilkinson said it was “fantastic” to finalise the plan.
“As we know, Ocean Grove’s population is expected to grow by nearly 15 per cent by 2035,” she said. “We already see that growth; it’s projected to surpass 24,000 people. So there are many of these clubs (where) their infrastructure is already bursting at the seams, so we really need to look and plan ahead.”
The Devlins Road redevelopment - the priority project of the broader OGSIP - will see the Ocean Grove Soccer Club relocated
to a purpose-built soccer complex at the site.
The soccer club’s current home at Shell Road Reserve would then be converted into a second football and cricket oval, with expanded cricket nets and an extra undercover netball court.
Further improvements and upgrades will be made at Collendina, Memorial, Arthur Powell and Wallington recreation reserves.
Theplanitselfrestsonthreefoundational pillars: developing facilities that will support future growth and provide a wide range of opportunities for participation; enabling successful and sustainable clubs; and ensuring facilities are accessible and
inclusive for players, officials, volunteers and spectators.
CrWilkinsonsaidthethreepillarswould guidelocalsportinginfrastructureintothe future.
“It’sveryexcitingthattheworkisactually alreadyunderway…thisisanexcitingtime for sport in Ocean Grove,” she said.
Murradoc Ward councillor Rowan Story said he commended the plan on the basis of its impacts on community health.
“The psychological, physical benefits, social connectedness, (and) general health benefits of sport are incontrovertible and this will materially advance those parts of our council plan and our preventative health survey results,” he said.
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Potato Shed revamp plan
By Matt Hewson
The City of Greater Geelong has released a $34.5 million plan for the redevelopment of the Bellarine Arts Centre, colloquially known as the Potato Shed.
The Bellarine Arts Centre Master Plan includes a redeveloped front of house, expanded and upgraded theatre space, improved amenities for performers, a dedicated education space, an outdoor amphitheatre, kitchen, public deck and upgraded entry way.
Delivery of the redevelopment, which is not yet funded, is planned in two stages, with the major upgrades to performance
spaces during the first stage and the education and community rooms during stage two.
Councillor Rowan Story said the much-loved venue had become a “victim of its own success”, with user demand far exceeding the Potato Shed’s current capabilities.
“Proposals in 2010, 2016 (and) 2017 consistently found that the venue didn’t meet contemporary cultural venue standards and was under equipped,” Cr Story said. “The City of Greater Geelong committed in 2022-23 to develop a comprehensive business case and tonight we’re at the end of that process.
“This (plan) will deliver a future-ready performing arts centre for the Bellarine region with key features including a new, large capacity theatre to support more performances and larger audiences.
“This is critical because the area has been identified by touring companies as a place they would like to come to, but they need a certain number for viability.”
Cr Story said no council funding was currentlybeingsought,withthepriorityon state and federal government investment.
The project is anticipated to create up to 55 new jobs and bring 90 cents into the local economy for every dollar spent, with one third of the venue’s visitors coming
Felting down the rabbit hole with Jo
Take a leap down the rabbit hole and wonder through an Alice in Wonderland-inspired felt and fibre exhibition in Drysdale.
SpringDale Felt and Textile Artists will host its Through the Looking Glass exhibition at SpringDale Hall from 10am to 4pm on June 7 and 8.
Group member Jo Aspland said everyone was welcome to attend the event for its 8th year to continue a tradition of engagement and support.
“Thecreativityandstuffthatcomesout
ofsomeofourmembersisamazing.They allgooffindifferentdirections,”shesaid.
“Our group works with felting and fibre textiles. Everybody has different styles and takes on the theme, but we decided to go down a bit of that Alice in Wonderland theme.
“We will have a lot of hand-made and feltedgarments,scarves,hatsandgloves. We also have people in our group who do beautiful weaving and eco-printing. So, it’s quite a variety.
“Once we’ve all got it set up, I look
forward to seeing everybody’s work. We also get some really interesting people come through and we never know what people are going to be interested in.”
Ms Aspland said many works featured in the exhibition contained elements of Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland with felted top hats and a recreation of the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party.
Entry into the exhibition is by a gold coin donation with many felted items on display and demonstrations happening throughout the event.
from outside the region.
Councillor Elise Wilkinson said the project would benefit the local community in more ways than just economically.
“It’s anticipated that this is going to enable local schools, local organisations, to be able to celebrate awards evenings… in their own backyard, instead of having to come into Geelong,” she said.
“It’s a very exciting project. The architecture itself… really maximises the space and accessibility so that the venue isn’t a standalone, in isolation. It’s an incredible expansion to our already thriving cultural precinct here in the (Geelong) CBD.”
A VIEW to end child poverty
Ocean Grove Day VIEW Club is urging the community to give generously to The Smith Family’s Winter Appeal this year, to support thousands of children and young people experiencing disadvantage with their education.
It comes as The Smith Family’s latest Community Attitudes Survey (CAS) of the Australian public shows four out of five respondents (83 percent) believe that tacklingchildhoodpovertyshouldbeatop national priority.
VIEW (Voice, Interests and Education of Women)isanationalwomen’sorganisation and support network, bringing together women to enjoy social activities, develop skills, and make connections – all while supporting Australian children experiencing disadvantage.
VIEWisalsolargestcommunitysponsor ofstudentsonTheSmithFamily’sLearning for Life program, with Ocean Grove Day VIEWclubsupporting28studentsthrough its fundraising activities.
The Smith Family chief executive Doug Taylor said “poverty shouldn’t limit a child’s potential”, which is why the charity is launching its Winter Appeal today.
“TheresultsofourCommunityAttitudes SurveyshowAustraliansrecognisepoverty has an impact on a child’s education,” Mr Taylor said.
“However, what many people don’t see are the hidden impacts of disadvantage and the incredible emotional, social and academic toll that can have on students during and after their schooling.
“But the right educational support at the right time through The Smith Family’s evidence-based programs can make all the difference to those students and give them the tools and resources to fulfil their potential.”
Jo Aspland is preparing for the Through the Looking Glass exhibition. (Ivan Kemp) 480870_05
Most owners happy to pay
By Matt Hewson
A group of Bellarine residents will receive the new street surface they have asked for, at a price.
Geelong council announced its intention to declare a Special Charge Scheme (SRC) to fund the construction and sealing of Elgin Street in Drysdale.
Property owners will fund more than $386,000, or 73 per cent, of the estimated $529,835.83 required to complete the
works.
Under the council’s proposed SRC, each owner on Elgin Street will contribute $9669.50 per property, regardless of frontage, site value or the assessed amenity value.
Of the 25 property owners who responded to the City’s survey, 15 supported the SRC, with eight of those preferring the equal share approach.
Councillor Rowan Story said the proposed construction and sealing
works had been developed in response to complaints and a petition received from residents requesting to seal the road.
“Sealing the road will improve amenity, road safety, and limit the impacts from dust, mud, and stone scattered to adjacent properties,” he said.
“Special charges are a key source of revenue for council civil infrastructure construction programs and they enable the timely delivery of community requested infrastructure that provides
Firefighter named Citizen of the Year
Volunteer firefighter Bruce Golightly is Borough of Queenscliffe’s Citizen of the Year for his decades of service to the community.
The borough held its Community Service Awards on May 21 to celebrate the work of Queenscliff’s many volunteers during National Volunteer Week (May 19 to 25).
Mr Golightly said he was “very honoured” to receive the Citizen of the Year award for his service to the Queenscliff Fire Brigade over 43 years, including as captain for six years.
“I was also very humbled and appreciativeofmyfellowvolunteersatthe Queenscliff Brigade for nominating me,” he said.
“I was disappointed that I couldn’t be thereonthenighttoacceptthisaward,but it was great to have my three kids there to represent me and accept it on my behalf.
“Both of my boys are now firefighters following in the footsteps of their grandfather and myself. All three also volunteer in many other local community organisations.”
Mr Golightly said the things he got enjoyment out of while volunteering had changed a lot throughout his firefighting journey.
“In the early days, it was a rush of adrenaline to get to whatever the emergency call might have been. But in lateryears,it’sbeenmoreaboutbuildinga strong and competent team,” he said.
“Volunteering is vital in a community like Queenscliff’s, whether it’s with an organisation like CFA or other emergency respondersorinmanyoftheothersporting or community groups in the borough.”
Queenscliffe Climate Action Now was also named Community Group of the Year during the awards event following its efforts in championing sustainability since the group started in 2019.
a higher level of service than currently available and deliverable with existing capital budgets.”
Councillor Trent Sullivan said he was “not necessarily a fan” of SRCs, but he saw the need for them in the community.
“And clearly so do the residents of Elgin Street, as we do have a majority of support from the properties there as well. Elgin Street is only really parallel just behind High Street, near the centre of Drysdale,” he said.
Winter tourism campaign goes live
The Geelong region’s peak tourism body has launched a new campaign this month focused on bringing people to the area during the winter season.
Tourism Greater Geelong and the Bellarine’s (TGGB) campaign Off-Peak. On Point spruiks the region’s attractions duringthecoldermonthswiththeintention of addressing the challenges tourism operators face during the off-season.
Postcards featuring local tourism businesses are a central part of the campaign, with thousands being distributed to residents and businesses. Locals can send postcards to family and friends throughout Victoria and interstate, inviting them to come to the region to experience attractions such as award-winning wineries, distilleries, restaurants and tours.
The Visit Geelong and The Bellarine website also features a showcase of local tourism experiences and a wide range of off-peak promotional deals.
TGGB executive director Tracy Carter saidthecampaignwas“aboutenjoyingthe sweet spot outside the summer peak”.
“The Off-Peak. On Point campaign positions Geelong and The Bellarine as the placetoenjoymoreofthegoodstuff–more culture, more food, more nature with less waiting around,” Ms Carter said.
“Many of the region’s top attractions are still under the radar for locals and visitors alike, off-season is the best time to visit them. You don’t need a passport for this, just a couple of days and a will to unwind.”
Young people tackle vaping with awareness push
Geelong’syouthareactivatingtospreadthe word about the dangers of vaping among theirpeersaheadofWorldNoTobaccoDay this Saturday.
Senior students and staff at North Bay College and North Geelong Secondary College have been working with the City of Greater Geelong’s Youth Development team and partner CatholicCare Victoria’s Settle Well program all year to raise awareness of the effects of vaping.
The co-design project is part of the Barwon South West Vaping Prevention Coalition, funded by a $200,000 VicHealth Vaping Prevention Grant.
The program draws on the lived experience and perspectives of young people,askingthemtopitchandimplement ideas on vape prevention.
Youth Council member Lacey Young is participating in the local youth vaping
action group. She said it was really concerning how many young people were continuing to take up vaping.
“It is higher than ever before, but the good thing is, young people aren’t just
standing by,” Ms Young said.
“Youth-led groups and initiatives allow us to find ways to prevent and reduce the rise of vaping amongst adolescents.
“It shows that we care and are willing to take action to help stop vaping from becoming the norm.”
Councillor Rowan Story, Geelong council’s chair of Health and a retired surgeon, praised the local teenagers working to raise awareness about the dangers of vaping.
“TheseNorthGeelongSecondaryCollege and Northern Bay College students are proving themselves to be future leaders of the community,” Cr Story said.
“They are committed to sparking honest conversations amongst friends and classmates.”
Visit uncloud.org to find out more about the dangers of vaping.
Geelong Junior Mayor Ayush Singh and Cr Rowan Story with local youth vaping action group participants Bella Harvey and Lacey Young.
Borough of Queenscliffe’s Citizen of the Year and volunteer firefighter Bruce Golightly, right, with his sons Will and Matt. (Supplied)
Premier backs her fire levy
By Jena Carr
Premier Jacinta Allan has spoken out in support of the controversial Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) levy followingprotestsinGeelong.
Country Fire Authority (CFA) and Fire RescueVictoriavolunteersdrovetrucksand blarredsirensaroundGeelongonMay20to protest the new levy after it passed in state parliamentonMay16.
Ms Allan told the Independent on Friday, May 23, that the ESVF was needed as Victoria was one of the most fire-prone areas in the world, with natural disasters
becomingmorefrequentandsevere.
“All our emergency services, volunteers and workers are being asked to do more,” shesaid.
“In terms of providing additional support tovolunteers,bothCFAandSESareexempt from the levy, which again goes to the fact that they protect us and deserve our support.
“I’m focused on ensuring that our emergency services have the support, resources, equipment and tools that they needastheysupportusinsomeofthemost difficultcircumstances.”
Protests against the levy will continue
at Winchelsea Shire Hall from 8am on Saturday, May 31, with Winchelsea Fire Station sounding its sirens throughout the day until 8pm whenever it is called out to a fireorincident.
The new levy replaced the existing Fire Services Property Levy, which was created because of the Victorian Bushfires Royal Commission’s recommendations following the2009BlackSaturdayBushfires.
Greater Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said the levy would hit ratepayers with significantincreasesinthestategovernment charge,whichwillappearonratenotices.
“It was opposed by every Victorian
Orange suppot for SES volunteers
By Jena Carr
Geelong and the Bellarine wore orange on Wednesday to support emergency servicevolunteerswhogiveuptheirtime to help their communities.
State Emergency Service’s (SES) national Wear Orange Wednesday (WOW Day) was held on May 21, with the community encouraged to wear orange andrecognisetheworkofSESvolunteers.
Crystal Sturgess-Myers started volunteering in 2019 at the Fawkner SES Unit, formerly known as the Broadmeadows Unit, before she found
her home within the Bellarine Unit.
“It’s an opportunity to give back to our community on what could be the worst day of their life,” she said.
“It’s rewarding and challenging, but I find that it’s a safe space to be myself. I likebeinginanenvironmentwhereIcan completely let go of work and be myself.
“The camaraderie within the unit is fantastic and the opportunities we’re provided to develop our skills are phenomenal,butservingourcommunity is my favourite aspect of the role.”
Ms Sturgess-Myers said WOW Day was an important time for SES volunteers to
“sit back and reflect on why we do what we do”.
“Volunteering is outside of our day-to-dayjobs,andwedon’tnecessarily do it for any recognition,” she said.
“If in doubt about volunteering; jump in and give it a go. You never know what you don’t know. My advice is that if you are thinking about joining and getting involved; find a really good mentor.”
Victoria SES Barwon region volunteers received more than 3700 requests for assistance since May last year, which reflected the increased demand for emergency services.
council, the Country Fire Authority, Victorian Farmers’ Federation and the majority of the community, particularly farmers who will be particularly badly hit,” hesaid.
“Families, farmers and businesses in our community will be pushed to the wall by thisincrease,whichwillseethestatecollect over $55 million from our ratepayers in 2025-26.
“I understand that the state government is looking to balance its budget; however, raisinganewtaxwhileourcommunityisin themiddleofanextremecostoflivingcrisis isnotpossible.”
More setbacks for footpath project
Ocean Grove’s controversial Principal Pedestrian Network project has been delayed past its initial June 2026 completion date.
The PPN, which is partly paid for by ratepayersandmetwithsomeresistance whenitwasannounced,hasexperienced setbacks, City of Greater Geelong said.
TheSpecialRatesandChargesScheme allows the City to deliver the project within five years from commencement, with a final completion date of 2028, the City said.
The City had intended to finish construction by June 2026, however due to challenges meeting accessibility, cultural heritage, and vegetation requirements,workshavenotprogressed as anticipated, it said.
Connewarre Ward councillor Elise Wilkinson explained that the project is still proceeding despite setbacks and officers are continuing to complete detailed design and are programming the construction of the remaining footpath sections.
“We understand the community’s frustration and the need for transparency,” Cr Wilkinson said.
“It’s crucial that the project meets the needs of all members of our diverse communityandisdeliveredresponsibly.
“Our priority is to respect the financial contributions of our ratepayers while enhancing pedestrian safety and accessibility in Ocean Grove.“
To date, nearly 6km of footpath has been built and council said it would be recommencing footpath construction “shortly”.
A drop-in session is currently being arranged to allow the community to directly engage with project staff. Once finalised, details will be published through media channels and on council’s website.
For further information, visit the project page at geelongaustralia.com. au/ogppn/
Election report leaves councillors with unanswered questions
By Matt Hewson
SomeGeelongcouncillorshavequestioned whether changes to council election rules and the reversion to a single councillor ward structure have had their intended outcomes.
The comments came at Tuesday night’s councilmeeting,wheretheCity’sreporton the 2024 Greater Geelong general election report was presented.
Councillor Emma Sinclair, who joined
the council after being elected last year, noted the 2024 council election was the first since the redistribution of wards.
“So this is the first election where we’ve seen single council wards, (and) there’s no analysis in this report that talks about whether that’s good for diversity, how that ward structure has impacted election results,” she said. “I hope that’s something the state government continues to look at as part of their ongoing assessment of the 2020 reforms.”
Cr Trent Sullivan echoed Cr Sinclair’s comments, saying there were “large concerns” the single-member ward structure was “prohibitive to many members of our community”, including women.
“We,asanorganisation,wereasignatory to the Victorian government’s 50-50 target by 2025, meaning last election,” he said.
“I question us signing up to government programsandtargetswhentheyimplement structureswhichareactivelyrecognisedas
prohibitive to reaching those targets.”
Cr Anthony Aitken said non-resident ratepayer voting numbers had dropped in hiswardfrom1000to2000votersto148last year after a controversial change required them to enrol to vote manually rather than automatically being entered.
Cr Andrew Katos, a Liberal member, suggested that change had been made under a Labor government to limit the numbers of landlords and non-resident owners who “perhaps vote a certain way”.
VICSES Bellarine Unit volunteer Crystal Sturgess-Myers. (Ivan Kemp) 478906_05
Firefighters protest ESVF
By Jena Carr
Emergency service volunteers and their vehicles have swarmed Geelong’s streets to oppose the new Emergency Services and VolunteersFund(ESVF)levy.
HundredsofCountryFireAuthority(CFA) and Fire Rescue Victoria (FRV) volunteers and close to 20 vehicles consisting of firetrucks CFA cars protested in front of the offices of Geelong’s MPs on Tuesday, May 20.
ConnewarreFireBrigadeFirstLieutenant PhilStewartsaidtheprotestwasnotagainst the CFA but rather the state government as
many people couldn’t afford to pay the new levy, which passed in state parliament on May16.
“We (CFA volunteers) do this for free, but we’regettingsluggedaswell,”hesaid.
“The time has come for people to start saying enough. Because you got a lot more land, you’re paying a lot more for it, so it doesn’t seem equitable, particularly in a drought where people are struggling the wholetime. Weneedtostartstandingupto a government that keeps spending money andjustthinkssomeoneelseisgoingtopay for it and enough is enough; farmers can’t affordit.”
Thanking coast volunteers
As part of National Volunteer Week, Barwon Coast hosted a celebration on May 20, to recognise the outstanding contributionsoflocalvolunteers.
The annual event brought together representatives from nine local volunteer groups who contribute to the health, safety and enjoyment of the Barwon Coast – including Coastcare groups, EstuaryWatch,FriendsoftheBluff,Friends of the Hooded Plover Bellarine, Friends of theLobsterPot,theForeshoreMasterPlan Community Reference Group, and local SurfLifeSavingClubs.
Held at the Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club, guests were welcomed with drinks and canapés, before hearing from Sandy Gatehouse, chair of the Barwon Coast Committee of Management, who
thanked volunteers for their passion and commitment.
“Volunteers are the heartbeat of our coastalcommunity,”shesaid.
“From conservation and education to safetyandstewardship,yourworkensures that the coast is cared for today and protected for future generations. National Volunteer Week is a chance to say thank you,andtocelebratethedeepconnections youcreatebetweenpeopleandplace.”
Thissnapshotoftheyear’sachievements showcased the incredible diversity of work being done, from dune planting and community education to bird monitoring andcoastalsafety.
Barwon Coast thanked its volunteers, including those who were able to attend onthenight.
FRV Western District 3 commander Mark Sinkinsonsaidthestategovernmentshould not“taxthosethataredoingthejob”.
“Weneedtoletthegovernmentknowthat there’s got to be another way to do this. The emergency services need funding, and we needitcritically,”hesaid.
“Whateveryone’spaying,particularlythe guysandgirlsthatareonthetruckshereout in the bush, are paying a lot more in their emergencyservicelevyandthat’snotright.”
Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney said she understood concerns raised through the new levy but that it was needed to help battle emergency events
facingtheregion.
“There has been a reaction, and I understandthatthereareanumberofevents that have been organised and people have the right to have their voices promulgated,” she said. “The key to all of this is that we need to have more resources to deal with issues that confront our communities, whether it be fires, bushfires, flooding, or highwindstorms.
“I just hope that we have the fortitude in all of us to make sure that we do have the resourcesthatweneedrightacrossthestate to combat the climate change events that faceourcommunities.”
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Barwon Coast chief executive Gareth Smith, volunteer Kerryn Lester-Smith, Barwon Coast chair Sandra Gatehouse and volunteer Gregory Kelly at the celebration. (Supplied)
Three cheers for health service volunteers
Bellarine Community Health (BCH) is celebrating its volunteers during National Volunteer Week.
Whether it’s driving clients around the Bellarine to activities or for shopping, assisting clients in their social support groups, helping clinicians with group exercise programs, or the many other tasks our volunteers help with, they are an invaluable part of the BCH team.
“Ourvolunteersareoftenthefirstfriendly face our clients see, and they provide a warm smile, wonderful interaction and meaningful conversation that is cherished
bythepeopletheysupport,”BCHvolunteer coordinator Kai Whyte said.
BCH currently has around 80 volunteers and collectively over the past 12 months they have contributed almost 6700 hours of work either supporting programs and services, volunteering in the Portarlington Op Shop which raises funds for BCH or volunteering in the BCH Ageing Well Hub which supports people to navigate aged care services.
TonyDesiradrivestheBCHbusesforthe Social Support and Going Places programs and has clocked up more than 340 hours
behind the wheel in the past 12 months.
“I enjoy the company, talking to the clientsandstaff,gettingoutandabout,and just getting out of the house and enjoying the company of other people,” he said.
BCH runs regular volunteer group catchups to give the volunteers a chance to meetupandconnectwithothervolunteers and a series of training sessions which this yearhasincludedbasicfirstaidandmental health for older people.
Contact Kai Whyte at kai.whyte@bch. org.au or 0436 024 718 if you are interested in volunteering.
New vegetation policy adopted
Borough of Queenscliffe will further protect the environment and address climate change issues through its adopted Vegetation Management policy.
Councillors unanimously accepted thepolicyduringits May28,meeting, which will guide a planned and integrated approach to managing vegetation across the borough.
Councillor Isabelle Tolhurst said the policy would help enhance Queenscliff’s natural, urban and formal green spaces.
“The role that feedback and community input has played in getting this policy to where it is, I think it’s really strong,” she said.
“It has some ambitious targets around increasing things like tree canopy to 30 per cent, and it is also a policy that applies to all public land managed by the borough.”
The policy’s objectives included maintaining and enhancing the distinct character of Point Lonsdale and Queenscliff’s townships while promoting livability and cultural integrity.
Council also accepted a notice of motion to request a comprehensive report on the Climate Emergency Response Plan be prepared and presented to the August meeting. The report will help inform the plan’s review and ensure community and councillors make decisions based on comprehensive, factual and transparent reporting.
BCH celebrated its volunteers with a special event at Point Lonsdale Surf Lifesaving Club which included a ‘self-care’ activity and afternoon tea. (Supplied)
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Promoting fine food
By Cr Trent Sullivan
Tastes of Greater Geelong is back for 2025, and the Bellarine Peninsula is shining brighterthanever.
Now in its 14th year, this year’s festival features more than 80 homegrown businesses showcasing handpicked produce and exquisite multi-course meals acrosstheGreaterGeelongregion.
WithsomanyvenuessurroundingOcean Grove,nowisthetimetocelebrateourlocal highlytalentedchefsandgrowers.
Anyone who’s already visited Ket Baker will know their bread and pastries are worththehype.
AndafterattendingownerMiekPaulus’s Sourdough Bread Workshop, you could be cookinglikethisathome.
Learntomix,shapeandbaketheperfect loaf and take home two loaves as well as your own sourdough starter so you can impress your friends with delightful homemadesourdough.
Your freshly baked bread could be perfectly complemented by butter from localproducer,LardAssButter.
At their tasting event, you can sample handcrafted slow-churned varieties such as salted, sweet vanilla and smoked. You’ll also learn butter-making traditions and enjoypairingtips.
On The Terrace, The Dill Seafood Restaurant is serving a traditional Ukrainian Dinner on Wednesday June 25. Try hearty and flavourful dishes served by Ukrainianheadchef,IvanRoianov.
Meanwhile over in Wallington, The Flying Brick Cider House is offering a Fabulous Friday three-course feast,
including a glass of Yes Said the Seal wine, beerorcider.
Alternatively, cheese lovers can head to the High Cheese event at the same venue. This twist on a regular high tea offers indulgences such as baked camembert, brie souffle with apple butter and goat cheesecroquettes.
For those with a penchant for cocktails, Yes Bar will serve their Flight of Fancy – a tasting paddle of four signature cocktails, showcasingarangeofflavoursandstyles.
And if gluten’s not your friend, My
Bellarine Kitchen is putting on a gluten-free high tea with the kind of care anddetailthatmakesitfeellikeatreat,not aworkaround.
Over in Drysdale, Farm My School is hosting a Cooking on Country workshop withNornieBero,chef,authorandfounder ofMelbourne’sMabuMabu.
This hands-on cooking and educational workshop will encourage you to slow down, connect with country, learn about regenerative farming, harvest organically grown produce and prepare a healthy meal.
You can also join celebrity chef Adrian Richardson for a masterclass of Italian cooking featuring standout produce from Lonsdale Tomato Farm and vintages from LethbridgeWines.
Grown on the Bellarine, these handpicked tomatoes take centre stage in a celebration of freshness and delicious Italianflavours.
We haven’t forgotten the kids. Children canembarkonaculinaryjourneythrough Geelong’s streets during the school holidays to discover delightful dishes designedforyoungpalates.
There’s also a program for teens to learn essential life skills such as food planning, budgeting,shoppingandmealprep.
The festival officially kicks off in central Geelong with the Winter Festival, but you don’t need to go far to enjoy it there’s so muchonofferinourbackyard.
TastesofGreaterGeelong2025runsfrom June20toJuly20.
For more information and the full program, head to geelongaustralia.com. au/tastes
Leopold ward councillor Trent Sullivan. (Supplied)
Migrants flock to Geelong
GreaterGeelonghastoppledQueensland’s Sunshine Coast to become the country’s most popular destination among Australianmovers,aftersecuringregional Australia’s biggest share of net internal migration.
The latest Regional Movers Index (RMI) report shows in the 12 months to the March quarter, the Greater Geelong local government (LGA) had a 9.3 percent share of total net internal migration, compared with the Sunshine Coast’s 8.9 percent.
It comes amid an uptick of movement out of metropolitan areas to the regions, with capital city to regional relocations increasing by almost 11 percent.
Greater Geelong’s ascent on the leaderboard was set against a background of a rise in popularity in regional Victoria as a whole - the state capturing 34 percent of the total net inflows into all of regional Australia during the March 2025 quarter, larger than the 28 percent share in the March 2024 quarter.
RAI chief executive Liz Ritchie said the data in this quarter’s report demonstrates shifting migration patterns within Australia.
“The nation’s love affair with regional living is showing no signs of abating with 25 per cent more people moving from capital cities to the regions, than back in the opposite direction. Further, net migration to regional Australia is now sitting 40 per cent higher than the prevailing level in the pre-pandemic era,” she said. “Regional Australia is being reimagined. The regions’ enviable lifestyle offerings, buoyant jobs market, position as an economic leader and variety in communities are proving to be an ongoing lure, particularly for those in metropolitan areas. Contemporary regional Australia has what people are looking for and it’s clear clichéd images and misconceptions about regional living are well and truly a thing of the past.”
Bringing the laughs to the Bellarine
The Tin Shed in Barwon Heads is set to become the Bellarine’s newest comedy venue with a series of shows kicking off in June.
The popular venue will play host to three comedy nights between June and September, featuring lineups programmed by comedian and creative producer Stella Kinsella.
Chris Franklin, who shot to national fame in 2000 with his number one single Bloke(aparodyofMeredithBrooks’song Bitch), will headline the first show on Thursday, June 5.
Franklin will be joined by Melbourne-based comedians Evan Hocking and Billy Stiles, with follow up shows featuring much-loved comics Richard Stubbs and Dave O’Neil.
Kinsella, who has recently moved to OceanGroveaftermanyyearsofrunning
comedy events in Melbourne, said she hoped the three shows would be the first of a regular series of comedy events.
“Comedyisoneofthosebrilliantforms of, if you want to call it art, that connects very quickly with people,” she said.
“And while we think we know comedians from the television, when they’re in the room with you - when they’re in a room that is made up of a community like Barwon Heads and Ocean Grove - there’s a really uniting connection that’s quite bespoke to that event.
“So I wanted to start up a space in Barwon Heads. The headline comedian is the hero of the night, but I want to be able to give support acts an opportunity to work as well.
“(There is a) growing comedy scene in Geelong and I’ll be able to provide
opportunities for stage time for some of the comedians that are working in and around Geelong and the Bellarine.”
Kinsella said she was looking forward to connecting locals with quality comedy.
“Audienceshereareterrific,peopleare switched on down here,” she said.
“They’re aware, interested, connected through social media and relative to the news… and they go to lots of stuff. But a lotofthethingstheygotoareinGeelong, or in the city.
“Somytheory,whichistheoneIworked on in the inner west of Melbourne, was if you only have to drive five minutes and pay your babysitter less than two hours to have a really good night out, then that’s a winning combination.”
Tickets on sale at stellavision23.com. au or at the venue.
Voice speak up for reconciliation
A vibrant community event to celebrate National Reconciliation Week 2025 will be held at Queenscliff next week.
Reconciliation Queenscliffe will stage Voices for Reconciliation at Wirrng Wirrng (Queenscliffe Hub) on Friday May 30 to bring together voices and a shared commitment to reconciliation.
The pop-up performance of Goanna’s iconic anthem ‘Solid Rock’ will be led by Queenscliff local Rose Bygrave, original member of Goanna and long-time advocate for reconciliation.
Local music groups Shedding the Blues, New Swell Choir, Tides of Welcome, Sea of Ukes, and Feel Good...Sing! will also be part of the event, showcasing the power of collective voice.
Joining singers on the night will be acclaimed musicians Dave Steel, Wayne Jury, and Ngarrindjeri and Gunditjmara man Mick Ryan on yidaki.
“Over forty years ago my friend and Goanna band mate Shane Howard wrote a songaboutthedispossessionofAboriginal people,” Rose said.
“Since then it has become one of the greatunifiersforblackandwhiteAustralia. Hereinourlittleborough,whereI’mproud to say, our community is full of socially aware, kind and respectful people, we have an opportunity to come together to sing that song and ‘Solid Rock’ the air with good will. There are over 500 singing groups around Australia who are singing that song as well-let’smakeoursthemostpowerful.”
Children at the borough’s three primary schoolshavealsobeenlearningthesongfor Reconciliation Week, and are encouraged to attend Voices for Reconciliation with their families and friends.
“Reconciliation is a key part of learning for kids across Australia,” Point Lonsdale Primary School principal Fay Agterhuis said.
“Progressing reconciliation creates safe places for young people and doing that through song and shared experiences is a wonderful education opportunity.”
Everyone is welcome to join the singalong, a part of the larger Voices for Reconciliation project taking place this year during National Reconciliation Week 2025. No experience is required, and the event is accessible.
Geelong council formalises alliances with Wyndham and Devonport
Geelong council endorsed formal relationships with two municipalities vital toourregion.
City of Greater Geelong will enter into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) withboththeCityofWyndhamtothenorth and the City of Devonport in Tasmania this week.
Wyndham, which encompasses 17 western Melbourne suburbs including Hoppers Crossing, Laverton, Little River, Werribee and Wyndham Vale, borders
Geelong to the northeast, while the Spirit of Tasmania travels between Geelong and Devonport.
The MOUs will serve as frameworks for cooperationandcollaborationwiththetwo cities,includingtourism,advocacy,growth, economicdevelopmentandprocurement.
Councillor Trent Sullivan, who helped build the relationship with City of Devonport during his term as Geelong mayor, said the MOU presented “fantastic opportunities” to collaborate on tourism
andeconomicdevelopment.
“The Spirit of Tasmania has been a fantastic upgrade to our region, with over 400,000 travellers coming through our regionnowannually,”CrSullivansaid.
“By signing an MOU with Devonport, ultimately,thatmeansthewholeofTasmania as well. There are so many opportunities that will open up for Geelong… because we arethepointofentryontothemainlandfor mostTasmaniapeople.”
Councillor Anthony Aitken said the MOU
with Wyndham was “a really significant strategicchangeforGeelong”.
“Our centre geographically in terms of our population, with the new 110,000 people over the next 30 years in the north and western growth zone, will be shifting backtothenorth,”CrAitkensaid.
“So we have to work with Wyndham to make sure that we take advantage of all of these opportunities and, importantly, create the employment opportunities that Geelongisgoingtoneed.”
Stella Kinsella is bringing some of Australia’s best comedians to Barwon Heads. (Ivan Kemp) 479071_02
Birdwatch app hit and miss
Over the past week there’s finally been some decent rain around the Bellarine, and the weather seems more appropriate considering winter is just around the corner.
Unfortunately the rain hasn’t fallen where it is desperately needed in the west of the state.
I’vespentmoretimethanusuallookingat birds in my garden recently.
To help me with monitoring garden birds I recently invested in a ‘BirdWeather PUC’, which is a small device that detects bird calls. It’s been interesting process getting thedevicesetup,anditcommunicateswith an app on my phone and generates a list of bird species that are detected.
I must say that some of the species that it lists I have never seen anywhere near my garden, such as a European greenfinch, so I’m not sure if there’s a bird that sounds similar that the device is wrongly identifying.
A large flock of little corella flew over the house calling raucously, and the device didn’t register anything, which was quite disappointing. Another time two eastern spinebills were drinking at the birdbath and because they didn’t call, the device didn’t register their presence.
There have been great egrets and cattle egrets registered, which is quite possible if they were calling while flying over the
house.Onthesubjectofbirdsflyingoverthe house I did see a whistling kite fly overhead during the week, which was lovely.
I’ve had a pair of spotted pardalotes hanging around my garden. Usually they are high in the tree canopy feeding on insects, so they are difficult to photograph, but this pair have been feeding off autumn leaves on the ground.
The female of the pair (with the lighter plumage coloration) has been skimming along my windows feeding off insects on spider webs, which I’ve never noticed them doing before. I was a bit worried that the bird would crash into my windows, but it’s just been flying along the windows, so there have been no injuries. It’s been great to be abletoobservethesebeautifulbirdsatclose quarters.
In the paddocks near Jenelle Crescent in Ocean Grove, near Oakdene Estate, I noticed a male flame robin a few weeks ago and thought that an Australian hobby might have scared it off. I noticed the flame robin had moved further east, which is precisely where I spotted one of these birds last winter. And the same as last year when I tried to photograph this beautiful bird it flew off into the gardens surrounding the paddockandwouldn’tletmeanywherenear it, which is precisely how it should behave when being wary in its environment.
The other bird I have been photographing recently was the little wattlebird, which is not as common in Ocean Grove compared tothelargerredwattlebird.There’sagarden around the corner from my house that has a lovely pinkish-red grevillea, and the little
You’re invited to help shape the future of the
Barwon Coast Foreshore
Barwon Coast is creating a Master Plan for the coastal public land we manage between Breamlea and Collendina.
The Foreshore Master Plan will guide the protection, enhancement, and connection of key areas.
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wattlebirds are loving the nectar from the flowers. I hope the residents of the house aren’t too annoyed by my constant loitering outside their garden.
Neil from Ocean Grove has been getting back into photography after two hip replacements. He has been trying to photograph lorikeets in flight.
“Theyarelikebulletssonochancepicking them up and panning,” he said. “I have the camera on tripod pre-focussed just above a natural tree ‘bath’ high in the front garden. I sit in a chair and when I see something out of the corner of my eye I press the shutter and shoot nine frames a second. I need a new mirrorless that does 30 frames per second.”
Neil said the squabbling between musks and rainbows was hilarious.
Barwon Coast manages 19km of coastline, including Bancoora Beach, Thirteenth Beach, Barwon Bluff, Barwon Heads foreshore, Bukareeyoo, Ocean Grove Main Beach and Collendina.
Left: Neil’s rainbow lorikeet threatening a musk lorikeet in Ocean Grove. Right: Jen’s flame robin at Oakdene Estate, Ocean Grove (top); Jen’s female (centre) and male (far right) spotted pardalotes in her garden.
Lakes Open Day
Dr Colossus comes home
By Matt Hewson
While Simpsons-themed metal band Dr Colossus are ostensibly Melbourne-based, Geelong is their home turf.
It comes as little surprise, then, that Colossus frontman Jono Colliver considers the Barwon Club Hotel’s Negative Waves 2025 rockfest one of their most important sets of the year.
“We’re second from the headline spot, right before Cosmic Psychos and right after Hoss - both bands that were majorly influential on me as a kid,” Colliver said.
“So I’ve personally got nerves, because I
want to be able to put on a show that’s going to stand up. We’re going to treat it like a big show, because it is a big show for us.”
Colliver is no stranger to big shows.
When he’s not fronting Dr Colossus or crooning as his washed-out lounge singer persona Casino Stepdad, he tours with international superstar Vance Joy as the singer-songwriter’s bass player.
But Colliver said gigs like Negative Waves were special in a way stadium shows simply couldn’t be.
“I’m real pumped; this lineup is the quintessentialGeelongscenemixofbands,” Colliversaid.“There’sclassicolderbandswe
grew up listening to, like Cosmic Psychos and the Meanies, and there’s some younger crew I’ve been getting around.
“The best thing about these kinds of days is that when those two worlds are brought together… the older gig heads and younger gig goers, and everyone’s united by the same sort of stuff.
“Older crew get turned onto new bands, and older bands like Psychos get to play in front of a bunch of new people they haven’t converted yet. I think it’s really good for the scene.”
DrColossuswillmixclassicSpringfieldian anthems with new material they have been
A trip around the world in 80 minutes
By Matt Hewson
Takeamusicaltriparoundtheglobewhen theMelbourneMandolinOrchestrabrings its latest show to Geelong.
Music From Around the World collects themusicofahostofnationsandcultures, from South America to Japan and Yugoslavia.
The ensemble, which has been bringing mandolinmusictoaudiencesformorethan half a century, also features mandolas, mandocellos, guitars and double bass, as well as guest solo spots from rising star clarinettist Anna Yamzaki and conductor Juliette Maxwell on the accordion.
Geelong’s Donna Kerslake, who leads the orchestra’s guitar section, joined the
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ensemble as a child.
“My mother was from Holland; she playedmandolinandjoinedtheorchestra, so I started playing guitar at the age of nine,” she said.
“I’ve been playing ever since with the orchestra. My husband does too, he learned as a child in the UK.
“We come from all over the place, we’re quite multicultural. We have amateur musicians as well as professional musicians, we have doctors, lawyers, architects,housewivesandstudents.Soit’s really quite a nice community orchestra, it’s like a big family.”
Kerslake said it was “terrific” to be able to perform with the orchestra in her home town.
“I love the gigs in Geelong because all my friends and work buddies come,” she said.
“I work in aged care so I’ve got a busload of residents coming, and they’re all very excited. This concert has been handpicked forGeelong…itwillbeareallynice,joyous afternoon of music.”
The Melbourne Mandolin Orchestra is at Wesley Uniting Church on Sunday, June 15 from 2.30pm. Visit trybooking.com/ events/landing/1397560 for tickets and more information.
working on for their forthcoming album, due in early 2026.
“We’ll probably road test a couple of newies that are ready to go, and personally, I’ll be trying to lean into the fact that we’re not an established old legendary band,” he said. “We’re a Simpsons-themed metal outfit, so we’ll be leaning into the stupid very heavily. It’ll be a nice palate cleanser right near the end of the night.”
Colliver might not consider Dr Colossus a legendary band, but Geelong knows better.
Negative Waves 2025 is on Sunday, June 8. Visit barwonclub.com.au/whats-on for tickets and more information.
Exclusive retirement living – open day and lunch in June
Don’t miss out on a rare opportunity to secure your dream retirement lifestyle.
With only a few brand-new homes remaining in our final stages, now is the time to discover what makes the Bellarine Lakes Country Club community so special before they’re all gone.
We also have some fabulous refurbished and new two and three bedroom homes for sale.
Our large 21 square Eden Beach home offers three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a study, open plan living, extensive outdoor entertaining and a double garage. A stylish kitchenfeaturingstonebenchtops,loadsof storage and quality appliances. The home has all the features you could possibly desire and the comfort of low maintenance living with resort style facilities in your own backyard.
The enviable resort style living facility includes; a private golf course, a four-rink bowling green, tennis court, hobby workshop, gymnasium, indoor heated swimming pool and outdoor lap pool, alfrescodiningandabeautifullyappointed community clubhouse which houses a cinema, billiard room, craft room, medical room, library, fully equipped catering kitchen, club bar and even indoor carpet bowls.
Nestled just minutes from the beach and only 7km from Geelong CBD, Bellarine Lakes Country Club offers more than just a home, it’s a way of life. With its own private golf course and a vibrant, welcoming community, you’ll enjoy the perfect blend of relaxation, recreation, and luxury. Experience it yourself. Join us for a two-course luncheon at noon on Friday, June 13.
consultant Lisa Duke on 0447-495 400 or FreeCall 1800 255 578. We look forward to welcoming you to Bellarine Lakes Country Club at 402 Bellarine Highway, Moolap.
Bellarine Lakes: Live the resort style living every day – with private golf course, walking tracks, hair dressing salon, swimming pools and so much more. Do as much or as little as you like. (Supplied)
Melbourne Mandolin Orchestra brings music from around the world to Geelong this June. (Supplied)
Playing through the grief
Point Lonsdale musician, artist and disability advocate Bree-Arne Manley was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis 20 years ago. She speaks with Jena Carr about her experience and the launch of her new album ‘Good Grief’.
Bree-Arne Manley was like any other 19-year-old, enjoying her life outside school while travelling and being active.
But her world would soon come crashing down when her vision suddenly started to deteriorate in one eye.
“I had just come back from New Zealand and the world was my oyster. I was excited to start my life on the outside of school,” she said.
“I came home and, all of a sudden, I couldn’t see. I had an aura in my vision, and I thought I was getting a migraine. I had some tablets, but my eyesight never came back, and it never got better.
“So, I went to the doctor, and they said there was not much they could do. They sentmetotheoptometristbuttheycouldn’t seeanythingwrongwithmyeyeseither,so they then sent me to an eye specialist.
“But, they also couldn’t find anything , soIwasthensenttoaneurologist,andthis is when I started getting freaked out as I began wondering if it was a brain tumor or something else.”
Whiletryingtoworkoutwhatwaswrong with her eye, the same thing started to happeninherothereye,causingBree-Arne to go to the hospital.
People stuck in chairs often get left behind ... they just have to put up with seeing stuff instead of being immersed in it
This was when Bree-Arne finally got the answer to what was happening to her and was diagnosed with the autoimmune disease multiple sclerosis (MS), which affects the central nervous system. What she didn’t know was that her sight issues were not her first sign of having MS, as she had experienced a health event while on a school hike a year before her diagnosis.
“I was on this hike and collapsed from what the teachers and I thought was dehydration, so I thought nothing else of it,” she said.
“But looking back on it, I think it was the very first sign of heat intolerance, which is an MS symptom, because I had it happen a couple of other times.”
Twenty years later, the now 39-year-old Point Lonsdale woman is in a wheelchair butstillmanagestowalk,swim,rockclimb and even surf with her husband, Lachlan. Bree-Arnealsohastwosons,aged11and 8, and said she had to work out how to care for her boys with limited mobility.
“I couldn’t carry them. I just popped them on the change mat on the floor and then I pushed the mat and crawled along with it and they would go for a little ride,” she said.
“There’s a lot of stuff that I miss with my disability, but it’s just a puzzle, and you get around it... It’s like rock climbing; you’re just working out how to get from the bottom to the top.
“My husband and I go tandem surfing as I can still swim. I will go out on the beach, and then Lachlan will piggyback me down to the shoreline and lie me down on the board.
“Then he drags me into the water, and I start paddling. Sometimes, he’ll let me go on my own, but he’ll be at the back holding me or making sure I don’t drown.
“He will also sometimes jump on the back of the board, pick me up, and we’ll
surf together. He’s (Lachlan) a legend, but he doesn’t like you saying that to him.
“There are not enough hours in the day for my ambitions, and I want to fill as much of my life up with experiences as I can. I will try and do anything and everything.”
Bree-Arne was introduced to music by her parent’s love of singing and records, and discovered at three years old that she could play a song on the piano just by listening to it. She started writing and composing her own songs when she was just 12-years-old.
Following her diagnosis, Bree-Arne threw herself into music where started a reggae band with her husband. She launched her new folk-music album ‘Good Grief’onMay24,detailingherjourneyand processofgriefatbeingdiagnosedwithMS through soulful lyrics and guitar chords paired with emotional piano strokes.
The launch formed part of a fundraiser at Point Lonsdale Surf Life Saving Club to raise money for a beach access wheelchair.
“I’m hoping that other people can be inspired by the album and its songs to not giveupandknowthattheywillbealright,”
Bree-Arne said.
“I’ve written about going through the stages as I’ve grown up and... I wanted it to be something I could put out there to say that I’ve been through this, but I’ve come out the other side.
“IfeelblessedthatIcangetintothewater
as I have a husband. But not everyone’s got a Lachlan who can carry them down to the water and keep them safe.
“People stuck in chairs often get left behindbyaccessandinclusionsometimes,
and they just have to put up with seeing stuff instead of being immersed in it.
“To actually go onto the beach and into the water to immerse and experience it; it’s such a difference... Being in the water is such a great experience and it’s so much fun.”
Bree-Arne said she encouraged anyone going through what she’s gone through to continue to enjoy life, as it “flies by very fast”.
“(Sometimes)youjusthavetohaveagood cry. Let it all out and then pick yourself up, dustyourselfoffandthenseewhatelseyou can focus on,” she said.
“TheotherthingIsaytopeopleisifyou’re scared to do something, just go and do it anywaybecausequiteoftenit’snotasscary as you would have thought.
“Then you’ll be so proud of yourself that you’ve done it when it’s finished, and it will go so fast that it will be a distant memory soon enough.
“I’ve tried to live my best life and experience as much as I can, but I still have barely scratched the surface... There’s always something to learn or experience, so just immerse yourself in educating yourself.”
A GoFundMe has also been set up for anyone who was unable to attend the fundraiser but still wanted to show their supportforabeachaccesswheelchair.Visit gofund.me/03cc86beformoreinformation or to donate.
Bree-Arne Manley will launch her new album ’Good Grief’ during a fundraiser for a beach access wheelchair. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 478898
Point Lonsdale’s Bree-Arne Manley was diagnosed with MS when she was 19-years-old.
FAMILY LAW IN VICTORIA
Understanding different aspects of Family Law in Victoria
Family law governs the legal responsibilities and rights of individuals infamilyrelationships.InVictoria,asinall Australianstatesandterritories,familylaw is largely governed by federal legislation, particularlytheFamilyLawAct1975(Cth).
However, there are also some aspects where state-based laws and services intersectwithfederalprovisions.
This article provides an overview of how familylawoperatesinVictoria,includingkey areas such as marriage, divorce, parenting arrangements, property settlements, and familyviolence.
The legal framework
Federal law
The primary legislation is the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth), which applies across Australia.Itgoverns:
•Divorce
•Parentingarrangementsforchildren
•Propertydivisionafterseparation
•Spousalmaintenance
•Child support (with some administration viaServicesAustralia)
The Family Court of Australia and the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia (FCFCOA) are the main courts dealingwithfamilylawmatters.
State law
Whilemostfamilylawisfederallyregulated, Victorian law comes into play particularly in:
•Family violence interventions (under the FamilyViolenceProtectionAct2008(Vic))
•Child protection matters (overseen by the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing(DFFH))
Allison Rowe Family Lawyers can make a significant difference in providing experienced support across all areas of family law.
•Birth registrations and changes to legal parentage (handled by the Registry of Births,DeathsandMarriages)
Marriage and divorce
Marriage
TobelegallymarriedinVictoria,individuals must:
•Be at least 18 years old (exceptions may applywithcourtapproval)
•Notbemarriedtosomeoneelse
•Enterintothemarriagevoluntarily Marriages are registered under state law, butlegalrightsandobligationsaregoverned byfederalfamilylaw.
Divorce
Australia has a ‘no-fault’ divorce system, meaning the only ground for divorce is the irretrievable breakdown of the marriage, demonstrated by at least 12 months of separation.
Couples can apply for divorce through the FCFCOA, and in most cases, divorce is a straightforward administrative process.
Seek legal advice early
Family relationships can be complex, and when legal issues arise - such as separation, divorce, or parenting disputes - they often carry significant emotionalandpracticalchallenges.
A family lawyer offers expert guidance, clarity, and protection, helping individuals navigate these situations with confidence. Key areas of family law include divorce, property settlements, parenting arrangements, mediation, and domestic violence protection. Lawyers help formalise agreements, protect financial and personal interests, and ensure the best outcomesforeveryoneinvolved.
Early legal advice is essential to avoid costly mistakes, especially when dividing assets, creating parenting plans, or addressing family violence. Mediation and dispute resolution offer
alternativestocourt,andfamilylawyers play a vital role in reaching fair, legally binding agreements. Legal support is also critical in blended family matters, andspousalmaintenance.
Contrarytocommonmisconceptions, involvingalawyeroftenreducesconflict and facilitates resolution. Family law specialists understand both the legal and emotional aspects of family breakdowns and offer compassionate, practical advice tailored to each situation.
Whether you’re considering separation, need advice during a dispute, or want to protect your future, engaging a trusted family lawyer - like theteamatAllisonRoweFamilyLawyers -canmakeasignificantdifference.They provide experienced support across all areasoffamilylaw.
Parenting and child custody
UndertheFamilyLawAct,thebestinterests ofthechildaretheprimaryconsiderationin anyparentingdecision.
Keyprinciplesinclude:
•Children have the right to maintain meaningful relationships with both parents
•Protectionfromharmtakesprecedence
•Parentalresponsibilityisgenerallyshared, thoughnotalwayscustody/time
Parenting arrangements
Parentscan:
•Agreeonarrangementsinformally
•Make a Parenting Plan (not legally enforceable)
•ApplyforConsentOrdersorhavethecourt decideonarrangements(legallybinding)
The court may consider factors such as the child’s views, relationships with each parent,andculturalbackground.
Property and financial settlements
After separation or divorce, couples must divideassets,debts,andfinancialresources
fairly. This applies to married and de facto couples(includingsame-sexcouples)under theFamilyLawAct.
Keystepsinpropertysettlementinclude:
•Identifying and valuing assets and liabilities
•Assessing contributions (financial and non-financial)
•Consideringfutureneeds
•Reachingafairandequitabledivision
Couples can agree privately, through mediation, or apply for court orders if necessary.
Spousal maintenance
One partner may be required to financially support the other if they are unable to adequatelysupportthemselvesdueto:
•Ageorhealth
•Caringforchildren
•Earningcapacity
Spousal maintenance is separate from property settlements and is considered based on financial need and capacity to pay.
Family violence
Familyviolenceisaseriousissueaddressed under Victorian state law, especially the Family Violence Protection Act 2008 (Vic).
Itincludes:
•Physicalandsexualabuse
•Emotionalandpsychologicalabuse
•Economicabuse
•Coercivecontrol
Victims can apply for Family Violence Intervention Orders (FVIOs) through the Magistrates’ Court of Victoria. These orders cancoexistwithorinfluenceparentingand otherfamilylawmatters.
The challenges faced during a divorce or separation can be overwhelming, emotional and unfamiliar. Navigating not only the legal requirements, but separating the personal feelings can easily feel like an isolating experience.
By weaving compassion, dedication and first hand experience into their services, Allison Rowe Family Lawyers can handle your legal obligations so you can shift your focus back to what matters most - your family and your future.
To book a
call, visit
FROM THE ARCHIVES
Ocean Grove Voice looks back through the pages of our predecessors
9 years ago
May 25 to June 7, 2016
Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews receivedacelebritywelcomeashevisited Ocean Grove Primary (OGPS) today, promoting the State Government’s $4m grantfortheschool.
Excited students clamoured to high-five the Premier as he approached theschool’sgates.
7 years ago
May 23 to June 5, 2018
OceanGroveisnowreadytolightupthe nightforParkinson’s.
The fifth Light of Day Winter Gigs will beheldatDriftwoodCafe,Maggie’sBar, Olive Pit Deli and Piping Hot Chicken Shop&BurgerGrill.
4 years ago
June 4 to 17, 2021
Hospitality venues across the Bellarine Peninsula have been left devastated by the state government’s latest COVID-19 restrictions.
Cafes and restaurants were forced to close their doors to dine-in patrons for a full week and now face another week of restrictions, with a patron cap of 50 and density limit of one person per four squaremetres.
1 year ago
May 31 to June 13, 2024
Bellarine swimming enthusiasts will be able to enjoy their new aquatic facility all year round after Geelong councillors decided to keep the North Bellarine AquaticCentre(NBAC)openthroughout winterandautumn.
The council voted unanimously at Tuesday night’s meeting to keep the centre open at reduced hours between the start of June and the end of October. Throughthatperiodthe50-metreheated pool will open weekdays from 6am to 10amandSaturdaysfrom8amto12pm.
Line dancing and Texas BBQ for the win
Flying Brick Cider House’s first Toe the Line boot-scootin’ night sold out faster than a hot pie at a country fair. The crowd has spoken and back by popular demand an encore round of line dancin’, toe tappin’, and good-times rollin’ has been added to the schedule.
If you missed it the first time (or just wanna do it all again), now’s your chance to kick up the dust one more time.
Forbeginnerstofull-timeboot-scooters, the event promises a hootin’ scootin’ hollerin’ night of line dancing, fun and hearty Texan BBQ feast (just as the cowboys and cowgirls like it).
Just $49 gets you a 90-minute dance class, arrival bubbles or pot of tap beer/ cider, family style Texan BBQ feast featuring bourbon pork ribs, Angus beef brisket, southern fried chicken, assorted ranchstylesidesandsauces,drinksatbar prices and, most importantly, guaranteed fun.
Line dances include Electric Slide, MammaMaria,RockettotheSunandBar Song.
It’s completely sold out on Thursday June5,butifyougetinquick,youcanjoin Toe the Line on Thursday July 10 for the encore performance.
Arrive at 5.30pm for a 6pm start. Tickets via flyingbrickciderco.com.au
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
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
JACK RABBIT VINEYARD
• Iconic Bellarine winery
• Unrivalled panoramic views
• Contemporary a la carte
• Sophisticated wines
• Lunch / Wine Tastings
• OPEN 7 Days
85 McAdams Lane, Bellarine 03 5251 2223 jackrabbitvineyard.com.au
12606706-RR21-23
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
Shopping local in Ocean Grove
Voice photographer Ivan Kemp went to The Terrace in Ocean Grove on Tuesday so see who was shopping local.
Siblings Tom and Amy Filipovic. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 480715
Above: Patricia Williams. Below: Nicole Hindson, and Emma Colby.
Denise and Geoff.
Karlee Mae with Ayla.
Sara Lappe (left), and Merryn Tate (above).
Lucy Tardif and daughter Marcelle.
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
ACROSS
1 Football (6)
4 Careful (8)
9 Reprimand (5)
10 Intercede (9)
11 Fluid injection (5)
12 Clumsy (9)
13 Plan of action (8)
15 Obedient (6)
16 Uproar (6)
18 Scary things (8)
23 Reflects upon (9)
24 Brings up (5)
26 Making loud and confused noise (10)
27 Bring forth (5)
28 Removes (8)
29 Water-surrounded land (6)
DOWN
1 Triumph (7)
2 Legal offence (5)
3 Handsome (7)
5 Representative song (6)
6 Underwater missile (7)
7 Spy (9)
8 Ghost (7)
10 Cake decoration (5)
14 Superfluous (9)
16 Means of transport (7)
17 Southwestern US state (7)
19 Fertile spot (5)
20 Waitstaff (7)
21 Hang by attachment (7)
22 Holiday accommodation (6)
25 Fragrance (5)
letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.
1 Which of the following is not a noble gas: helium, krypton, hydrogen or neon?
2 GirlwithaPearlEarring is an oil painting by which Dutch Golden Age painter?
3 Freetown Christiania is an intentional community and commune located in which city?
4 ThePrimeofMissJeanBrodie is a novel written by which Scottish writer?
5 In World War I, which three countries formed the Triple Entente?
6 ‘124 was spiteful’ is the first sentence of which novel?
7 And who authored that book?
8 ‘Go ahead, make my day’ is a catchphrase used by Clint Eastwood’s (pictured) character in which 1983 film?
9 True or false: Canada was the first nation to grant universal suffrage for women?
10 Hyperhidrosis is the medical term for what condition?
No. 271
No. 239
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 Day VIEW
Mother’s Day raffle drawn Saturday May 10: Sue Galino 1st, Patti Gawith 2nd, Gill Robertson 3rd, Sandra 4th, Sue Kayler-Thomson. 5th, Michelle Lewis 6th. The raffle raised $2737.69 for The Smith Family.
Meets second Wednesday of the month at 360Q, Queenscliff, 10.30am for 11am.
oceangroveday.viewclub@gmail.com
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 91 366
Portarlington community concert
Portarlington Neighbourhood House presents Newport Junction. Saturday May 31, 6-10pm, Parks Hall, Portarlington. $15 ticket.
Bookings: 5259 2290
Bellarine Historical Society Inc.
Open to the public. Discover the area’s past. 1st & 3rd Sundays, 10.30am-12.30pm, Courthouse Museum, 11 High Street, Drysdale.
Ann, 0407 234 541
Ocean Grove Library
Wednesday June 4, 4pm-5pm, kids workshop: Monsters, Music and Me – A Creative Workshop with Sally Wilson Wednesday June 11, 2pm-3pm, jobs and lifeskills: resume writing tips
Monday June 16, 10.30am-11.30am, kids special event: Nutcracker dancing story time with the Australian Ballet.
Wednesday June 18, 2pm-3pm: book chat 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 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 31, 7.30-11pm, $10 includes supper, music Kevin.
0419 463 306
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
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 10-11.30am, Parks Hall Portarlington.
who have played soft tennis for many years. The game is similar to Pickleball. Ocean Grove Memorial Hall, 123 The Avenue, Mondays 1.30-3.30pm. No experience necessary. Just a desire to keep fit and have fun.
Megan, 0439 317 344
CWA Nightlights Ocean Grove
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
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
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
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 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 & about
Voice photographer Ivan Kemp went to Queens Park Reserve in Newton for the Geelong Amateur vs Ocean Grove footy and netball matches on Saturday May 24.
1/ Chrissy and Matt Gibbon and Paul Sutton. 2/ Sisters, Lesley and Sharon Gemmell. 3/ Pam and Darren Baker and Shenae Zanardo. 4/ Sean O’Neill with his daughter Winnie.
5/ Lachlan Dongers with his twins Addy and Leo 6/ Niki Hines, Fiona Belcher, Tracy Dawson and Bella Jubber. 7/ Laura Ritchie and Amy Harris. 8/ Eamon Mills and Vicki Streeter. 9/ Jo Bliss with Ben and Cassie Redfern. 10/ Gab and Mal Baxter. 11/ Anabel Jones, Laylah Mouat and Millie Ludlow. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 477686
Business DIRECTORY
ACCOUNTING SERVICES
RocheAccounting52562764
ANTENNAS
ArrowAntennas0439785703
KendallAntennaServices0404019781
AUTOMOTIVE
AutoCareOceanGrove(Repco)52551045
GardinerAutomotive52555380
BUILDING DESIGNERS
MichaelHigginsBuildingDesign52553355
BUTCHERS
Benno’sMeatingPlace52541828
CHIMNEY SWEEPS
A1ChimneySweep&Co0426897479
CONVEYANCING
VinesConveyancing52554480
CLEANING AND LAUNDRY
AussieCleaning&Laundry0430215264
DENTAL
DrysdaleDentureServices RyanDavies52511683
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ELECTRICIAN
GavinBurnettElectrical0467554941
• 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
Five generations of Santa Fe
By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring
I still remember the launch of the first Hyundai Santa Fe back in the year 2000, the year that was going to change everything.
Twenty-five years later and now in its fifth generation, the latest version of the family-sized SUV has come a long way sincethoseearlydays.
The first version was okay, the fourth was pretty damn good and this one is something special, the winner of numerous awards and a wagon that boxes wayaboveitsweight.
Hyundai describes the boxy newcomer as “open for more”, a rugged yet refined large SUV that seamlessly integrates the demands of family life with the desire for adventure – it’s got something to do with Koreanssleepingintheback?
Styling
Priced from $53,000 (the price has grown with the car), available with petrol and hybrid powertrains in either twoor all-wheel drive. That gets you the base unnamed version with a 2.5-litre turbocharged four cylinder petrol-engine along with an eight-speed dual clutch styleautomatic,andfront-wheeldrive.
In case you’re wondering, there ain’t no diesel anymore – the hybrid now fulfils this role and pretty well to a point as we discovered.
Base petrol with all-wheel drive is another $3000 at $56,000, while the base hybrid with a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine kicks off at $58,500 – all pricesbeforeon-roadcosts.
Mid-range Elite is priced from $65,000, while our test vehicle, the top of the range seven-seat Calligraphy Hybrid which attractsapricetagof$75,000.
Butwaitthere’smore:itwasalsodecked outinPecanBrown–NappaLeather($295) as well as the functional but very stylish off-roadXRTPeakOptionPackwhichadds $9990 to the price, bringing the estimated driveawaypriceto$93,575.06.
The XRT pack adds 17-inch off-road wheels and tyres, mudflaps, off-road suspension, underbody skid plate, black side steps, roof racks, roof platform, bonnetprotectorandstylevisors.
Phew! It wasn’t that long ago that the first Hyundai cracked the $70,000 mark withthefirstGenesissedan.
Creamy white and Terracotta Orange cost nothing. Premium paint adds $750; mattetakesitto$1000.
Standard kit at this end of the spectrum includes classy Nappa leather, heated, cooled and power-adjust front seats with memory and massage for the driver, leather trimmed steering wheel, keyless entryandstartplusrearprivacyglass.
Zero gravity front seats distribute pressure to provide maximum comfort whentakingabreakonadrive.
If it sounds swish it is, with two-zone climatecontrol,rearairventsandseparate fan controls for the third row, a digital rear view mirror, solar filter windscreen and front-door side glass, customisable mood lighting, UV sanitisation tray that sterilises items and an innovative bi-directionalcentreconsole,andapower tailgate that seems to have a mind of its own. The bi-thingy lets front and second-row passengers open the console to access storeditems.Howaboutthat?
Calligraphy also cops two glass sunroofs: large and fixed at the rear and a smallerretractablepanelatthefront.
Santa Fe comes with a five-year/ unlimited kilometre warranty, with eight years on the hybrid battery. Servicing is due every 12 months or 10,000km and you getroadsideassistancefor12months.
Infotainment
Infotainment consists of a sweeping display panel that houses two 12.3-inch screens, one for info and the other for instruments, plus a smaller 6.6-inch screen for the aircon, with a speaker tacked on the right end to make the whole thinglookevenlonger.
The system offers voice control, Bluetooth multi-connection, Google fast pairing, user profiles with Bluelink accountlinkingandcalendarintegration.
There are also themes, blue-light filter, quiet and valet mode, AM/FM and DAB+ digital radio, built-in satellite navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, plusovertheairupdates.
Calligraphy also features a new dual wireless charging pad in the spacious frontcentreconsole,toallowthecharging oftwosmartphonesatthesametime.
Premium12-speakerBoseaudioisfitted, with an external multi-channel amplifier, a front centre midrange speaker, and a subwoofer.
Access to connected services is complimentaryforfiveyears.
Safety
Five star safety extends to 10 airbags, head-up display, 360-degree camera and autonomous emergency braking.
The latter is capable of detecting and reacting to vulnerable road users such as pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists andoperatesatspeedsfrom5-85km/h.
There’s also active cruise control, traffic sign recognition, blind-spot monitoring with active collision avoidance, auto evasivesteeringassist,lanekeepingassist, junction-turning and crossing assist, steering-initiated rear evasive assist and driverattentionwarnings, Navigation-based smart cruise control recognises the vehicle ahead using the front-view camera and front radar, and determinesthesafespeedrangeforcurves aheadusingthenavigationsystem.
Engines/transmissions
The petrol-electric powertrain consists of a 1.6-litre four cylinder turbocharged petrol engine and 47.7kW electric motor that draws its power from a 1.49 kWh lithium-ionpolymerbattery. Combined output is 172kW of power at 5600 rpm and 367Nm of torque from 1000-4100 rpm, with a conventional six-speed automatic (not dual clutch) that feedspowertoallfourwheelsasrequired.
Driving Santa Fe is the same width but 45mm longer, with H-shaped (Hyundai) graphic elements.
It’s also 60mm higher than before, with a 50mm longer wheelbase (distance between axles) which translates to more legroom.
Gettinginforthefirsttimethenewmodel feels spacious. A large centre console has space for two mobiles to charge side by sidesimultaneously.
The look and feel is upmarket, unexpectedly more than the badge suggests, but we’re not huge fans of the Pecanleather.
It’s a long way back to the two of the seven seats right down the back, with a second row bench that slides and reclines, and one-touch control to access the third row. Each of the third-row seats also fold andrecline.
Second-row legroom has increased by 20mm,third-rowlegroom15mm.
Hyundai claims 628 litres of cargo capacity with the first two rows of seats in use(thewheelarchesobviouslyintrudeas shown).
There’s also a six-seat version for about $525 more, but less is more as they say because it offers easier access to the third row.
The petrol-electric powertrain consists of a 1.6-litre four cylinder turbocharged petrol engine and 47.7kW electric motor that draws its power from a 1.49 kWh lithium-ionpolymerbattery.
Combined output is 172kW of power at 5600 rpm and 367Nm of torque from 1000-4100 rpm, with a conventional six-speed automatic (not dual clutch) that feedspowertoallfourwheelsasrequired.
This compares with the previous 2.2-litreturbo-dieselthatitreplaceswhich produced148kWofpowerat3800rpmand 440Nmat1750rpm.
There are four drive modes (Eco, Normal, Sport, My Drive) as well as three multi-terrainmodes(Snow,Mud,Sand).
The dash from 0-100km/h takes 9.5 secondsandithasatopspeedof190km/h.
The XRT off-road option pack fitted is a collaborative effort between Hyundai Australia and the Hyundai America TechnicalCentre.
An Australian team travelled to California to test the existing North American sourced components in varied on-andoff-roadconditions.
These included steep unsealed climbs
and descents with rocks and sand, along with other test work including heavy duty towing, damper tuning and Motor Drive PowerSteering(MDPS)assessment. AmongotherthingstheXRTpackbrings 17-inch wheels with chunky all-terrain rubber, together with off-road tuned springs and dampers that lift ground clearance by 30mm boost to a handy 210mm.
Italsoimprovesapproachanddeparture angles: approach (19 degrees), departure (22degrees)andbreakover(19degrees). AhiddenhandlefoldsoutoftheC-pillar, providingimprovedroofaccess.
Early Santa Fe was surprisingly good off road, even without low range gearing, keeping up with more fancied 4x4s in all butthemostarduousconditions.
It just shows what you can achieve with reasonable ground clearance, decent rubber and a smart four-wheel drive system.
TheXRTbuildsonthisheritage,withthe makingsofsomethingabitspecial.
Of course, it poured cats and dogs the day we planned to put the vehicle through itspacesonourfavouritefiretrail.
But it certainly looks the part and a colleague that tried it out on the same trail was impressed with the way the car performed.
It’s more than ready to take on muddy conditions, icy slushy sealed roads and moderately rough dirt tracks – just don’t gettooadventurous.
On the downside, a space-saver spare is provided which does not meet the requirements of off-road driving where a punctureisonthecards.
The hybrid powertrain performs well most of the time, tootling around town, doing the family shop or getting the kids fromschool.
Under hard acceleration, however, it starts to feel a little underdone. Initial response is good, but after that it begins to fade, sounding more like the hard-working four cylinder engine that it is–turbochargedornot.
Load it up with kids and a boot full of luggageandthepowertraincouldreallybe putunderpressure.
Predominantly front-wheel drive, the clever all-wheel drive system is an active system and always sends a percentage of drivingforcetotherearwheels,ratherthan waitingforwheelspinlikemostsystems.
There’s a good chance you’re going to want to tow something with your new Santa Fe, so it is important to note that the hybridislimitedtotowinga1650kgbraked load.
Steering and handling are surprisingly good, particularly the latter where we wouldhaveexpectedmorebodyroll.
But the busy steering wheel and twist-gripgearselectorwithitsparkbutton ontheendwillrequiresomemastering. Mounted below the indicator stalk, they can be confused at times, especially duringhurriedthree-pointturns.
With a 67-litre tank, it takes standard 91 unleaded and has claimed fuel consumption of 5.6L/100km. We were getting 7.8L/100km after about 350km of mixed driving, including dirt and pavement.
The 1600km long term average was also 7.8L/100km.
Summing up
TheSantaFeisanimpressivecar,especially withtheXRTkitfitted.
But the price could be a stopper, at more than $90K by the time you put it on the road.
That’s a long, long way from $36,990 for thetopoftherangeGLSwhentheSantaFe was launched here back in 2000 (but it’s a lotmorecar).
The Santa Fe is an impressive car, especially with the XRT kit fitted. (Pictures: Supplied)
Ammos win
big over Grove
Voice photographer Ivan Kemp was at Queens Park on Saturday to see Geelong Amateur defeat Ocean Grove.
Above: Jacob Talarico marks strongly.
Right: Joe Maishman breaks a Jacon Talarico tackle.
Below: Sam Lloyd booted five goals for Ammos.
Kye Annand takes the ball down low.
Jai Hale handballs to a teammate, and Hugo Walsh takes a one-handed mark in the centre.
Riley Fergusson gets his handball away.
Left: Blake Sutterby was one of Ammos’ best. Centre: Kye Annand thumps the ball forward. Right: Billy Hayward takes a chest mark. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 477690
Tom Gribble and Kye Annand lock in the ball.
Charley Green and Jacob Talarico compete in the ruck.
Grubbers win top of the table clash
Voice photographer Ivan Kemp saw Ocean Grove prevail against Geelong Amateur in the battle of undefeated Bellarine Netball League sides at Queens Park on Saturday.
Amanda O’Malley played well in defence.
Georgia Ryan in action.
Kaitlin Sheringham waits for a pass.
Arlee Bennett tries in vain to keep the ball in play.
Emily Moroney was lively on the wing.
Left: Lauren Lapsley about to pick up a low ball. Centre: Elyse Boyer and Gemma Bell eye off the ball. Right: Zoey Shaw leaps high to take a pass. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 477687
Georgia Duncan accepts a pass under pressure from Georgia Ryan.
Kaylen Donnellan, Gemma Bell and Kaitlin Sheringham in a hot contest.
Neither Ashton O’Brien nor Kaitlin Sheringham give ground.
Georgia Berry reaches for the ball.
Rain stays away for finals
It was winter weather for semi-finals week in Tennis Geelong’s Tuesday Women’s SummerPennant,buttherainstayedaway long enough for matches to go ahead in all sections.
It was do or die for those in the second-semis as elimination loomed if resultsdidn’tgotheirway,andresultswere decisive or close until the end, with not much in between.
Section4wereintheirlastroundofhome and away matches, with Western Heights hosting Surfcoast Bellbrae Green and both teams keen to gain third spot, avoiding runaway ladder leaders Surfcoast Torquay Black in next week’s final.
Bellbrae started well, but didn’t have everything their own way, winning the firstthreesets,withtwogoingtoseven.The Heightspushedhardwinningtwosets,but itwasn’tenoughtostopBellbraetakingthe win and third place.
Moolap had a day they would prefer to forget, with Section 7 going down to Grovedale 6-0, and although posting 20 games, they were in many sets but just couldn’t get over the line.
State titles wrapped up
Section 2 would have been hoping for a repeat of their 6-0 win over Surfcoast Torquay Yellow in round 8, but instead wereshell-shockedwitha6-0loss,andonly managing seven games for the morning.
HightonhadahardbattleagainstMount Moriac in Section 3, and despite the tough conditions, the match was punctuated with plenty of long rallies, and the rain kindly waited until the teams were settled into lunch. While Highton took the win 5-1, it wasn’t all that easy with two of them tie-breaks and only a nine-game differential.
The winner for Section 6 before the match was difficult to pick with both Wandana Heights Blue and Hamlyn Park having strong wins over the other during the season. The match was evenly poised through the day with the teams tied at two sets with Wandana ahead by two games going into the final two sets. Tensions were high as both fifth and sixth sets went to the wire, but Hamlyn Park toughed it out winning both 6-4, 7-6 to book their place against Clifton Springs next week, with Tanja McKenzie a standout winning her three sets.
Section 5 was the battle of Grovedale with their Black team hosting Yellow, after
Yellow snuck into the finals in the final round. Both teams posted 5-1 wins against the other during the season, but it was a completely different outcome on Tuesday.
The teams split the first two sets before Black took the lead winning the next two, putting them up 3-1 with two sets to play. Yellow blasted out of the blocks in the final two sets, leaving Black shellshocked as Yellow won 6-1, 6-0, levelling the sets at three all, but keeping them one game ahead, and their finals campaign alive.
Moriac hosted Geelong Lawn in Section 1, which was likely to be an epic battle, as bothmatchesinhomeandawaywerethree sets all and one a drawn result, and it was.
Victorian State Titles in both Shortboard Masters and SUP Surfing divisions have been wrapped up on the Surf Coast with the Victorian Masters and SUP Surfing Titles running at Point Impossible and Jan Juc.
Surfing in the inaugural Over 30s Open Shortboard Division, Jarvis Cininas (Phillip Island) was in top form making the most of the head high clean conditions at Jan Juc.
Cininas finished the heat with a heat total of 14.67 (out of a possible 20), beating locals Tim Birnie and Cahill Bell-Warren who finished in second and third respectively. Luke Breeling (Dromana) and Ross Dart (Torquay) finished in third and fourth respectively.
Tiffany Riggs (Torquay) went back to back in the Over 40 Women’s Division and was in control for the majority of
the final. With the clock counting down it was Clair Eldridge (Portland) who put in a late charge locking in a 7.00 ride in the final five minutes. However it wasn’t enough, leaving Riggs in top place and with the State Title.
Other champions across the day includedJohnnyHawken(O40Open,Jan Juc), Andrew Hyde (O50 Open, McCrae), Craig Lloyd (O55 Open, Armstrong Creek), Michelle Fincher (O55 Women, Phillip Island), Rowan Sapwell (O60 Open, Torquay) and Kim Shannon (O65 Open, Melbourne).
On the Saturday, the best SUP Surfers fromacrossthestatecompetedinperfect reeling waves at Point Impossible. Taking out his 5th Open Men SUP Surfing Titles in a row, Matt Takle (Torquay) was unstoppable.
Locking in an excellent 9.50 ride on his first wave, Takle dominated
the final finishing on a heat total of 16.33. Finishing in second was Sandy Ryan (Phillip Island) who returned to competition after a multi year break. Rick Pettifer and Steve Toy finished in third and fourth respectively.
In an exciting element to the weekend, the first Under 18 Girls heat was run since 2018. Finishing in first place was Willa Webb (Torquay) on 12.33 heat total with Tulleah Close (Jan Juc) finishing in second on a 6.17 heat total.
Other event champions on Saturday included Sandy Ryan (O40 Open, Phillip Island), Lucy Bell (O40 Women, Sandringham), Brendan Ryan (O50 Open, Port Campbell), John Takle (O60 Open & 9ft O60 Open, Torquay), Gwen Carbone (O60 Women, Ocean Grove), Liam McCafferty (9ft Open & 9ft O50 Open, McCrae) and Emma Webb (9ft Open Women, Torquay).
Moriacclinchedthefirstsetinatie-break, while Lawn got through 6-4 in the second. Lawn took the lead winning the third and fourth 6-3, 6-4, leaving Moriac a tough ask to come through.
Tough they were, however, battling in the final two sets to win 6-4, 6-4 leaving the match tied on sets and games, sending it to a seventh deciding set. The teams selected their pairs with Bridget Laird and Fiona Blood for Moriac, and Lynda Nixon and Georgie Parker for Lawn going out for the decider. In yet another close set, Moriacmanagedthewin6-4,puttingthem through to face minor premiers Barwon Heads next week.
Young realises AFL dream
Barwon Heads’ Flynn Young was left stunned on Wednesday night as his AFL dreambecameareality.
The Werribee premiership player was taken by Carlton at pick four of the AFL mid-seasondraft.
Young had a breakout season with the Tigers last season and played a key role in their premiership. He kicked 21 goals in the space of four games for Newton & Chilwell last season and broke into Werribee’s side anddidn’tlookback.
The Blues said he is highly regarded for notonlyhisclassyleftfootbutalsohisaerial ability.
Carlton list management head Nick Austin said Young’s incredible rise to AFL football in the space of 18 months was built offhardwork.
“Flynnhasgonefromstrengthtostrength in the last little while and we couldn’t be happier to bring him to the football club,” hesaid.“At23yearsofage,ithasn’tbeenthe conventionalpathtotheelitelevelforFlynn -whathehasshowninhistimeatWerribee is his appetite for getting the best out of himselfandleavingnostoneunturned.
Speaking in a video on Carlton’s social media,Youngsaidhewasexcitedtojointhe club. “Looking forward to making the trip up to Carlton, some great memories at Ikon Parkandcan’twaittocreatemanymoreand just get stuck into it with the boys and meet allthestaffandplayers.”
Among the first people to call Young is newteammateandfellowOceanGroveboy SamWalsh.
Young played footy with Walsh’s brother previously. The two had run into each other a couple of weeks ago, with Walsh saying to Young hopefully we are teammates in a coupleofweeks.
Flynn Young.
(Ljubica Vrankovic)
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Torquay’s Tiffany Riggs went back to back in the Over 40 Women’s Division. (Ange Zorica/Surfing Victoria)
LOCAL TENNIS
Donna Schoenmaekers
TWS7 Grovedale and Moolap: Mel Eddy, Dolores Barrow, Kell Drayton, Nip Meyrick, Steph Thomas, Justine Rice, Heather Graham, Anne Waldron. (Supplied)
Ammos ‘super impressive’
By Justin Flynn
GeelongAmateurandOceanGrovearetwo BellarineFootballLeagueclubsatopposite ends of the ladder and development.
Ammos are primed for a premiership tilt this season and sit on top of the table while the Grubbers are a young side rebuilding for the future.
The result on Saturday was never in doubt with Ammos winning 15.20(110) to 4.7(31) with Lara recruit Mitch Day and former Richmond and Western Bulldogs player Sam Lloyd combining for 11 goals. Day (six goals) and Lloyd (five) and a five goaltononefirsttermsawoffanychanceof an upset loss very early.
OceanGroveshowedglimpsesofputting ittogetherdespitethelopsidedscoreboard.
“They have a crack and they’re obviously a younger side,” Ammos co-coach Riley Kershaw said.
“When they get the footy in their hands, theynaturallywanttomovequickly,which is good. They closed down a little bit, but I think they still got their own dash going and were probably a bit inaccurate in front of goal themselves at times as well.
“The more they stick around (and) stick together, that will come more frequently. They’ve got a few young guys that are
willing to take it on.”
Ocean Grove coach Dave Farrell said
Geelong Amateur was too good on the day.
“It’s been pretty well established how stacked their side is this season and seeing them first hand they were super impressive,” he said.
“Experience and strength on every line made it really difficult for our boys to get our game going for periods of the day.”
Farrell said the young list would not
learn anything by putting numbers behind the ball to limit scoreboard damage.
“Despiteafewuntidyscoreboardfinishes the last few weeks the coaches and players are clear about not retreating or pumping numbers behind the ball to soften these losses,” he said.
“We did that early in our development plan and now believe it’s about getting a bit more balance at the contest and how we take the ball forward. We spoke post-game
that some groups in the position we found ourselves would be starved of confidence and stop wanting the ball in hand or working for each other late in games when self-preservation becomes more of a focus.
“This group is different, despite not having the experience other sides might have, down two rotations from half-time again and with one rotation for most of the last quarter, they continued to work for one another and want the ball in hand when it was their turn.”
DRYSDALE looks to have gotten its mojo back with a 25-point win against Torquay. Midfielder Lachlan Nelis and forward Ben Fennell were best while skipper Ben McNamara was best for the Tigers.
MODEWARREcontinueditsresurrection with an 11-point win against Barwon Heads with Callan Farrell (two goals) best and youngster Harry Hyland putting in a good shift for the Seagulls.
QUEENSCLIFF put itself right in the running for a top three berth this season witha102-pointthumpingofPortarlington. Izaac Grant and Patrick Bradley each booted five goals for the Coutas.
ANGLESEA proved too good for Newcomb with a 48-point win with Ike Hardman and Liam Carolan leading the way.
Grubbers take outright top spot with impressive win
By Justin Flynn
Even without injured playmaker Zanna Woods, Ocean Grove proved too good for Geelong Amateur in the eagerly awaited topoftheBellarineNetballLeagueladder round7clashatQueensParkonSaturday.
After an even first half, the Grubbers’ tall defensive duo of Georgia Berry and Amanda O’Malley got on top of their shorter counterparts to run out 51 to 35 winners.
Woods broke a bone in her elbow against Barwon Heads in round 6, but didn’t realise it until much later in the week when she had it checked out. Coach Mel Holmes said the star goaler had already had two weeks off and should not miss an extended period of time.
“We didn’t find out until the Thursday (after the Heads game) because it just wasn’t getting any better,” Holmes said.
“She has broken both elbows before so it’s just a small fracture. I think she might miss another week or two, but we’re not expecting her to be out for too long.”
Scores were level at quarter time and Ocean Grove held a two-goal advantage at half-time before pulling away with mobile goalers Arlee Bennett and Ashton O’Brien leading the charge in Woods’ absence.
The difference between the two sides was goal accuracy. Grove shot 51 goals from 60 attempts whereas Ammos had trouble finding the net with 35 from 58.
“Arlee and Ash were outstanding,” Holmes said.
“They were faultless to be honest. And I guess we haven’t had a moving goal ring likethatagainsttheminthelasttwoyears. So that would have been different. Both teams had moving goal rings technically, butIfeellikethatwasachallengeforthem not really knowing those two (Bennett and O’Brien) together.”
At the other end of the court, Berry and O’Malley are forming a strong combination in defence while Gemma Bell was given the tough task at wing
defence on Ammos’ coach Kaitlyn Sheringham.
“They were unbelievable - that was their best game yesterday,” Holmes said.
“I had Gemma on Kaitlyn Sheringham and she gave it a red hot go.”
Despite remaining undefeated, Holmes said neither side would take too much notice of the result with both expected to bethereatthebusinessendoftheseason.
“It was really close in the first half, so it’s good for both sides to have a look at each other,” she said.
“A lot of those (Ammos) girls we know, but it was good to see where we sat. It doesn’t hugely matter at this point, but we’re really pleased with the win.”
Ocean Grove now turns its attention to Drysdale this week.
The Hawks had former star Bell Park shooter Bree Cail line up for them on the weekend.
“They are probably a bit unknown,” Holmes said.
“It’s different going against Ammos because we sort of know them a little bit more so we’ll just kind of go again. We take the win, but reset and be ready to take on the next team which happens to be Drysdale.”
TORQUAY outlasted Drysdale with a five-goal win with Kiralee Collings dominant at centre and Kate Schippers excellent at goal attack.
AILISH Glennen was very good at goal defence as Barwon Heads got the win against Modewarre, 69 to 30. Macie Mortlock played well at wing defence whileGraceHuntdidwellfortheWarriors at goal attack.
QUEENSCLIFF defeated Portarlington by 25 goals with defender Ebony Rolph and attacker Kaitlin Gladman best.
NEWCOMBwentalongwaytoensuring a finals spot with a six-goal win against Anglesea with Sarah Mulqueen and Jessica Duke best.
Above: Arlee Bennett finds space in the circle for Ocean grove. Inset: Ocean Grove coach Mel Holmes at three-quarter time. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 477687
Harry Cashin clears from half back, and Kye Annand marks on the run. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 477690
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