Ocean Grove Voice - 8th August 2025

Show of faith

By Justin Flynn

Ocean Grove has reappointed co-coaches

Dave Farrell and Nick Bourke for 2026 as the rebuilding club looks to make its long awaited climb up the ladder.

Nonplaying coach Farrell and playing coach Bourke have been at the Grubbers for two years and although the senior team has won only seven games in that time, the club has debuted many youngsters and remains a predominantly young list.

“Thecycleofreviewandplanningdoesn’t stop for us, even in-season we are always looking for ways to improve our program, what we can do immediately and what can

be done in the off season,” Farrell said.

“I’m really looking forward to the next couple of weeks and super excited about reloading for 2026.”

The Grubbers have also reappointed Mel Holmes as A Grade netball coach for next season.

Holmes took over last year after Ocean Grove won a landmark 2023 A Grade premiership, defeating the unbeaten Geelong Amateur in the grand final.

Holmes replicated that last year with a win against the unbeaten Ammos in the decider.

This season the roles have been reversed.

Ocean Grove is now the hunted rather than

the hunter, sitting unbeaten and facing a blockbuster clash against Ammos this Saturday to decide top spot on the ladder.

“I’mabsolutelythrilledtobere-appointed as Ocean Grove’s A Grade netball coach for 2026,” Holmes said.

“It was an easy decision for me. The club has been incredibly supportive, and I feel really lucky to be part of such an amazing community.

“I’m so proud of what this group and club has achieved and I’m excited to keep building on that success.

“Coaching this team is a real privilege, and I can’t wait to see what we can accomplish together in 2026.”

Mild days and chilly nights are in store

Can you believe there is only about three weeks until the official end of winter?

The days are getting longer with some mild ones thrown in lately and soon they will be longer and warmer. Today (Friday August 8) is expected to be dry and in the mid-teens with similar conditions for Saturday and Sunday before climbing up to the high-teens on Monday.

We are in for some chilly nights and mornings, though, with overnight lows struggling to break past 6 degrees and there is even a chance of front on Sunday morning.

There doesn’t appear to be any chance of rain until at least Tuesday. Our beaches are still great places to be, even when it’s cooler.

 See page 21 for more Out & About pictures.

Pictured is Gemma Barnes with her son Henry and daughter Ruby watching on from her pram at Ocean Grove main beach.

Dave Farrell (top) and Mel Holmes have both been reappointed for 2026.

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Remembering the Vietnam War

Vietnam Veterans Day is on Monday August 18 and recognises the invaluable contribution of Australians who served and sacrificed in the Vietnam War. We speak to three local veterans from the army, air force and navy on what it was like to serve.

Chief Petty Officer Peter Foote - Navy

By Jena Carr

Sailing and engineering have been a passion of Ocean Grove Vietnam veteran Peter Foote for over two decades of his life.

The 76-year-old started his career with the Royal Australian Navy in 1965 when he stepped onto the HMAS Leeuwin in Fremantle as a junior recruit at 16 years old.

Mr Foote served on many ships throughout his naval career and made his way up from engineering sailor to chief petty officer in charge of the engineering department before he retired in 1987.

“My first posting was on the HMAS Sydney, which was going to Vietnam with the Australian troops and their equipment,” he said. “I was later posted to destroyer escort HMAS Derwent, which was called upon to be an escort for HMAS Sydney, so we went to Vietnam as the guardian of HMAS Sydney which was full of troops for their next journey up.”

Mr Foote’s grandfather also served in the Navy during the First World War, and his father was a Second World War Army soldier who survived three years as a prisoner of war (POW) of the Japanese and lived to be 100.

“My father was captured at Ambon Island (now part of Indonesia) when the Australian force known as Gull Force was overwhelmed by the Japanese task force that came to take the ground,” he said.

“Hespenthis18thand21stbirthdaysina POW camp in China at Hainan Island, and when the war ended, he was discovered thereandwasrepatriatedbacktoAustralia by a Royal Navy ship.”

Mr Foote said Vietnam Veterans’ Day was a “very important day” to learn from history and honour everyone who served in the Vietnam War.

“You never want history to repeat itself, so we need to show that we support those veterans who are still with us,” he said.

Squadron Commander Tony Wheal OAM - Air Force

By Matt Hewson

For Retired Squadron Commander Tony Wheal,VietnamVeteransDayisoneofthe most important days on the calendar.

While not as big or well-publicised as AnzacDay,MrWhealsaiditwas“certainly as significant” to Vietnam veterans.

“It’s a day when we remember those poor buggers that didn’t come back, or if they did they came back in wooden boxes,” he said.

“You never forget those blokes, never. I certainly haven’t.

“There’sacouplethatIknewquitewell… I can still see them in my imagination and they haven’t aged a day. So it is quite a significant day.”

The son of an RAAF officer, Mr Wheal wanted to be a pilot since he was a child.

He joined the RAAF as a cadet pilot in 1966, graduating in February 1968. In April 1969 he was posted to 9th Squadron, based in Vung Tau in Vietnam.

“We flew in support of 1st Australian Task Force… we supported the Army in the field, we moved troops, food and

Brigadier David Gilroy AM - Army

By Justin Flynn

Retired Brigadier David Gilroy remembers the Vietnam War well.

He did three tours and although Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War was controversial, for Mr Gilroy, and many other veterans, it was just part of the job.

“CominghomefromVietnamIwastold to wear a Hawaiian shirt when I got off the aeroplane so I wouldn’t be abused or recognised as a defence force fella,” the Ocean Grove resident said.

“I came home mid-tour for a break just to see my newborn daughter and there was this nonsense going on that they didn’t want to be confronted with the protesters at Mascot Airport.”

Mr Gilroy’s daughter was born when he was serving in Vietnam and he didn’t get tomeetheruntilshewasfourmonthsold.

“She was born in April and I saw her in August for the first time,” he said.

“We got a telegram about a day after the birth and I was able to make a long-distance call back from the headquarters when I got back to base.

“The good wife and the good ladies of theregimentlookedafterherandallwent well. I wasn’t the only one, there were others in the unit with the same thing. You just can’t change compact units to suit personal instincts and things like that.”

Mr Gilroy believes support for veterans with PTSD is taken much more seriously now.

“More so after Afghanistan and Iraq and Iran and those places,” he said.

“Vietnamese mental breakdowns were not as many as they have been on modern fellas. DVA (Department of Veterans’ Affairs) has been remodelled and remodelled so it is handling things faster, handling things better and restaffing itself so it can now commit to looking after the defence force fellows properly.”

On August 18, Mr Gilroy will remember the Diggers who didn’t make it home.

“You just remember the fellas that didn’t come back and those that did come back, but suffered from some sort of mental anguish or something of which there were quite a number,” he said.

ammunition, we did medivacs when required,” he said. “It was the best flying I ever did in my life, but I wouldn’t want to do it again. It was extremely satisfying because you were supporting Australian troops.”

Mr Wheal spent a year flying Iroquois helicoptersinVietnambeforereturningto Australia, later transferring to the RAAF’s logistics branch.

HeandhiswifemovedtoBarwonHeads in 1999 and he retired in 2002.

He took on the treasurer role at local organisations such as the aero club and op shop, and joined the committee to establishthetown’sBendigoBankbranch.

He was the Barwon Heads RSL sub-branch president for a year, initiating the merger with the Ocean Grove sub branch in 2011 and becoming treasurer of theclubforeightyears,whereheisstillan active fundraiser.

“Certainly on Anzac Day, we get huge support from the local population,” Mr Wheal said. “I’m not a local yet. When I first got here I was told I wouldn’t be for 25 years, but that’s gone out to 40 now.”

Squadron Commander Tony Wheal OAM.

Brigadier David Gilroy AM.

Chief Petty Officer Peter Foote.

New ‘Jogger’ yarn

By Matt Hewson

A local author is releasing his third novel in a series of murder mysteries set on the Bellarine Peninsula.

Rick Wilkinson will launch his third George ‘Jogger’ Jensen yarn, A Bird in the Hand, at a public event on Friday, August 15 at 6pm at Portarlington Recreation Reserve clubrooms.

Mr Wilkinson released the first two books in the series, The Maw of the Beast and Poppy Day, in 2023 and 2024, having written all three stories in an 18-month period.

“They were written all together during COVID;IhadbuggerallelsetodoandIgot on a roll,” he said.

“So yes, I’m very pleased. I’m told by the women authors I know that (releasing a book)islikehavingababy;whenit’sthere, it’s great, it’s happened.”

A Bird in the Hand tells the story of Jogger Jensen, a Bellarine journalist who pursued a career in the big smoke before returning to Portarlington.

By the time of the third novel, Jensen has settled back into life on the Bellarine, writing a weekly column for fictional rag The Bellarine Courier.

While travelling on the QueenscliffSorrento ferry he finds a woman dead in her car, leading to an investigation exploringtheconnectionstointernational crime on the Bellarine.

Wilkinson said locals had expressed their enjoyment of reading a tale set in the region.

“I try to drop in a little bit of history as well; not deep history, just bits and pieces that are interesting, about

whatmadetheBellarineabitdifferent,”he said. “I’ve had a lot of support from people

around here. The book’s not on sale yet, but even in the post office in Portarlington they’ve got pre-orders coming in.”

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Kate Gorman with a piece of work featuring in the ENCIRCLE exhibition.

(Supplied)

Artist comes full circle

By Jena Carr

A ceramic and painting exhibition born out of life, memory and nature has opened in Ocean Grove.

Painter Kate Gorman and ceramicist Glenn England’s exhibition ENCIRCLE will be held at the Hive Gallery throughout August, which featured an opening event on August 2.

Ms Gorman said her paintings in the exhibitionwereinspiredbyhercollaborator andfriendDianneMangan,whowaskilled in a car accident in May this year.

“(The exhibitions paintings are) more of what I call restful scenes like landscapes, but sometimes they don’t look like a landscape, it’s just how it comes out,” she said.

“Each painting represents a place where

you would find peace and tranquillity and somewherenicetositandbeawayfromthe bustling noise of the city or traffic.

“Di was very strict in her profession; a very professional woman, yet she had this other lovely and gentle side... She was an inspiration and very knowledgeable.

“I tried to produce a series that reflected someone that was a very gentle woman. Sometimes I use a lot of bright colours, but with this sort of restricted myself into the more serene blues and greens.”

The exhibition also follows on from Ms England’s unexpected story of loss and recovery after her entire body of work was stolen from her car earlier this year and was later found intact three months later.

“Itwassurrealandtohavethemreturned felt like part of the cycle itself; things lost, then found again,” Ms England said.

Painter

Cruise through four countries, explore historic towns and UNESCO sites, and enjoy Viking’s

Portarlington author Rick Wilkinson. (Ivan Kemp) 493820_06

Beach accessibility boost

OceanGrovehasbecomeamoreaccessible area with a new Changing Places facility now open to support people and carers.

The facility opened at Ocean Grove Main Beach on August 7 to provide essential infrastructure for community members with high support needs and their carers.

Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant said she was delighted that the state government could support a second Changing Places facility on the Bellarine.

“The Changing Places facility at Ocean Grove Main Beach is a valuable addition to the Bellarine Peninsula,” she said “(It will) enable more locals and visitors

to enjoy our beautiful coastal region with greater accessibility.

“Congratulations to Barwon Coast for leading this important project and completing it in time for the busy summer season.”

The new Ocean Grove facility received funding from the state government, with Barwon Coast contributing an additional $86,000 to the project.

Barwon Coast Committee of Management chair Sandy Gatehouse said everyone deserved the opportunity to access and enjoy the Bellarine’s coastline.

“This facility is an important investment

in inclusion, enabling more people to participate fully in public life and coastal recreation,” she said.

ChangingPlacesfacilitiesarelargerthan standard accessible toilets and have extra features like a tracking hoist, adult-sized change table, accessible shower and additional space for two or more carers.

Minister for Disability Lizzie Blandthorn said Victoria was leading hr charge in making Australia a more accessible place with 170 Changing Places facilities available across the state.

“Accessible facilities are essential to creating an inclusive community for all

Retired Ford engineer John Crockett has been a lifeguard for almost 12 months. (Supplied)

Swimmers say ‘Thank you Mr Lifeguard’

Water has always been a big part of John Crockett’s life and when the novelty of retirement wore off, he decided to give being a lifeguard a go.

The retired Ford engineer has been a lifeguard at Bellarine Aquatic and Sports Centre, North Bellarine Aquatic Centre and Splashdown Leisure Centre for nearly 12 months.

“At first, I thought it would be all young kids and it wouldn’t be for me, then a few dayslaterIthought‘maybeIcanbeofvalue andsharesomeofmyexperienceswiththe young crew’,” John said.

“The interview was a group interview, andIwastheoldesttherebyabout35years,

but they were all great and very inclusive.”

John enjoys the flexible hours, as well as getting to meet so many new people and is keen to highlight the importance of keeping an eye on children around water and recognises that most parents he sees are doing the right thing.

“But you can be the best parent and still take your eyes off them for a second - that’s why we’re there to be an additional set of eyes,” he said.

“For example, a really diligent dad was with his little boy in the deeper 25 metre pool, which was way over the little boy’s head.

“The little boy was hanging on to the

side of the pool while playing with his dad. Dad briefly turned to talk to someone next to him and the little boy let go of the edge and went straight to the bottom - it was so quick.

“The dad turned back around and the boy was gone, he quickly realised and pulled him back up - the look on the dad’s face was one of horror then relief. This all happened in an instant so it just shows you how quick it can happen.”

John’s most memorable moment was when a little boy aged around three approached him and said “Thank you, Mr Lifeguard for keeping me safe at the pool today”.

Victorians and visitors, and we’re proud to support the establishment of another Changing Places site,” she said.

The state government’s 2021/22 budget allocated close to $2 million to provide grants for councils and not-for-profit groupstobuildChangingPlacesacrossthe state.

The budget funding added to $11.4 million that the state government had invested in Changing Places initiatives since 2015. Visit changingplaces.org.au for more information or to find a Changing Places facility.

Bellarine Peninsula community members can help the region continue to grow by having a say on the condition of their parks and green spaces.

The first phase of the $30 million Pick My Park program was launched on August 1, allowing people to provide feedback on current and new parks across eligible suburbs, including Geelong and the Bellarine.

Minister for Development Victoria and Precincts Harriet Shing said she encouraged people to pick their park and share their ideas.

“Weknowhowimportantparksare for communities for connecting with their friends, neighbours and family, so we want to hear what matters to you,” she said. “The Pick My Park program will target areas that are building more homes because as we continue to grow, we need to grow well, which includes delivering vibrant parks for our communities.”

Ms Shing said all community ideas were welcomed to create spaces and connect communities, including creating a new ‘pocket’ park in an urbanspace,improvingaplayground and making accessibility upgrades.

Winning projects selected for the program will receive grants from $20,000to$250,000forparkupgrades focusing on improving and creating parks, open spaces and urban parks.

Funding from the program will alsobuildonnewandupgradedpark investments made across the state, including Belmont Park’s dog park in Geelong.

Visit engage.vic.gov.au for more information and to complete a short survey.

Chloe’s F.A.S.T. journey

Torquay’s Chloe Farrugia suffered two strokes in 2014. She speaks with Jena Carr during National Stroke Week about her journey and the importance of knowing the signs of a stroke.

Ifitweren’tforChloeFarrugia’shusband Grant and children, she possibly would not be able to walk or talk and may not be here today.

It was back in 2014, and the then 24-year-old mum was about to host a big partyfortheAFLgrandfinal,whenastroke would change Chloe’s life.

“Hubby and I went into the bathroom to have some hanky panky before the party and I said, ‘I don’t feel well, like I feel like I’m going to faint’,” she said.

“He went to walk me to bed, but I fell on the floor as my left leg gave way, and I couldn’t feel my left leg, so he lifted me ontothebedandsawmyfacestarttodroop on my left side.

“I thought that I was talking clearly, but I wasn’t, and I was just mumbling, so Grant started to get concerned and called an ambulance straight away.

“I told him not to and said, ‘I just feel like I need to pass out, so leave me alone for a minute and let me pass out’, but he said no and that it was not normal.

“Hecalledtheparamedics,andtheytold Grantoverthephonetoliftmyleftarmand see if I could hold it up.

“Whenhelifteditup,Ilookedatmyhand and realised that I had no control of my body,whichwasreallyscary,andwhenthe paramedics came, they thought there was a bleed somewhere.

If my husband did not know the signs ... I wouldn’t be here today, and my kids would not have a mother - Chloe Farrugia

“They pretty much told my family to say their goodbyes because they didn’t know if I was going to make it or not, but I’m lucky that I made it into hospital and got the medication that I needed.”

Just a month after her first stroke, Chloe was able to take a break from life in rehab at the hospital to go home and spend a day with her kids when she was hit with another stroke.

“Hubby was cooking dinner, so I went and sat on the other side of the bench and started to have tremors on my left side, so we called an ambulance and went back into hospital,” she said.

“They found out that I was having another stroke, so I was rushed in for heart surgery, where doctors found a hole in my heartwheretheclotsweregettinguptomy brain.

“It wasn’t good for my kids to see this, as it was meant to be a happy day with me coming home and spending the day with my children.”

If two strokes weren’t enough of a challenge, Chloe’s son, who has an autism spectrum disorder, also underwent his own personal and medical challenges.

“We were told that he was going to be mute and at the age of two, we thought he hadtonsillitisbecausehewouldn’tturnhis head, but he wasn’t able to tell us that he had a sore throat,” she said.

“After a week of no drinking, eating, or wet nappies, we took him to the children’s hospital, and doctors found a lump on his lymph node.

“They went in to do surgery and a biopsy on the lump, and as they were doing a biopsy on the lump, his throat closed over.

“So, they had to cut half his throat out, intubate and put him in a coma to let it settle and we did about two or three more

Torquay mum of three and stroke survivor Chloe Farrugia. (Ivan Kemp) 494200_07

surgeries after that, which was pretty traumatising.”

Chloe said that what affected her the most during her medical journey was how it affected her children, with her eldest the most impacted.

“My daughter, who was four years old at the time, had a lot of abandonment issues because I went to rehab (for six months) for so long and she couldn’t understand why Mum had left home,” she said.

“Then, when I came home, her brother was in a coma in the children’s hospital, so hubby and I were living in the Ronald McDonald House.

“She just felt like everyone was leaving her and everyone was getting sick, and I want to take all my kids’ pain and for everything to be okay, but sometimes it’s not okay, and you can’t lie to them.

“This still affects her today, and she continues to see a psychologist for separation anxiety and abandonment issues.”

ChloesaidNationalStrokeWeek(August 4to10)wasanimportanttimeforeveryone to learn about the signs of a stroke.

“Ifmyhusbanddidnotknowthesignsof Face, Arms, Speech and Time (F.A.S.T.), I

wouldn’t be here today, and my kids would nothaveamother,”shesaid.“Ievenhavea tattooofF.A.S.T.onmyhand,andit’ssucha goodwaytogettalkingaboutitwithpeople who see it, so that’s why I got it tattooed.

“I believe everything happens for a reason, and I think I had to have these strokes, which sounds silly, but I believe I had to have them to appreciate life.

“I was a personal trainer, I was healthy and had a good lifestyle, so it just shows that it can happen to anyone, as I did not think it would happen to me.

“Adoctorsaidtomeaftermystrokesthat, ‘you may never run with your children again’, and I was like, ‘bugger that, watch

me’.

“I asked for a mirror because I wanted to get my face back, so every day I’d look at my face, and my husband brought the kids in every day, which was my biggest motivation.

“A few years later, we spent twoyearstravellingAustralia inacaravanwherewedidlots of hiking, and I noticed an hour into a hike that my left leg would get really heavy, so I was prone to tripping over.

“I’m also on blood thinners, so I can’t bump my head otherwise I bleed out, so the stroke still affects me with tiredness, and I can lose my words by the end of the day.”

A stroke occurs every 11 minutes in Australia and attacks 1.9 million of a person’s brain cells per minute when it strikes, according to the Stroke Foundation’s 2024 economic impact of stroke report. Visit strokefoundation.org.au for more information about National Stroke Week and the F.A.S.T. signs of stroke.

Chloe Farrugia’s husband Grant and their three kids have been her biggest motivation throughout her stroke recovery.

(Supplied)

Special memories

By Jena Carr

A new children’s book highlights the special memories and bond between a St Leonardsboyandhislategrandfather.

TateandPapa’sMemoriesisanon-fiction book by Ballarat author Janine Taylor and LeopoldillustratorStephaniePeacock.

Ms Taylor said the book focuses on the memories her grandson Tate, who lives in St Leonards, and her partner Peter made beforethegrandfatherdiedfromcancer.

“It’s about Tate, who was our first grandchild, and my partner Peter just loved doing things with him and they did somuchtogether,”shesaid.

“Peter was diagnosed with cancer in 2016, and he still did so much with him up untilthetimehepassedaway.

“Tate was only two and a half years old at the time, and it was just something I wanted to do for myself and Tate to look back and remember the things that they gottodotogether.”

Ms Peacock said it was her first time illustrating a children’s book and enjoyed collaboratingwithMsTaylorontheproject.

“I really enjoyed being able to imagine what a scene would look like and bring all the elements out that we needed to convey whatJanineenvisioned,”shesaid.

“We communicated a lot about what her visions were for each page, and she was very supportive throughout the whole process.

“There’s a lot of planning before getting intotheprocessofcreatingthewholebook as you’ve got to figure out the thumbnails for each page, the composition, how the pagesaregoingtolookandthecoloursthat youwanttoconvey.”

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Honouring the borough’s people

Queenscliffgroupsandorganisations have been recognised for enhancing the region’s wellbeing and quality of life.

Borough of Queenscliffe awarded 14 community grants and 13 event sponsorships during an evening eventonJuly30.

Deputy mayor Brendan Monahan said he was thankful to the community groups and events that support connectivity and culture acrosstheborough.

“We recognise the many people who have dedicated their time, energy, and passion to develop a range of interesting and diverse eventsandactivities,”hesaid.

“These initiatives not only enrich ourcommunity,butalsobringpeople together, create memories, and foster a strong sense of belonging whether it’s through festivals, art shows, flower shows, singing, knitting, or swimmingcompetitions.”

Community grants were awarded to the Combined Probus Club of Queenscliff, Shedding the Blues, Queenscliff Neighbourhood House, Point Lonsdale Primary and QueenscliffeHistoricalMuseum. Boardriders Club, St Aloysius Primary, Friends of the Hooded Plover, Point Lonsdale Bowls Club, Queenscliffe Indigenous Nursery, FirstQueenscliffSeaScouts,Bellarine Catchment Network, Point Lonsdale SurfLifeSavingClub,andFeelGood, Singwerealsograntrecipients.

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Ballarat author Janine Taylor and Leopold illustrator Stephanie Peacock teamed up for the first time on non-fiction children’s book Tate and Papa’s Memories. (Supplied)

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Funding good ideas

By Cr Trent Sullivan

Applications are now open for this year’s round of Community Grants and I can’t wait to see which inspired community members throw their hats into the ring.

The Community Grants program is one of the most rewarding initiatives we offer, providing vital funding to businesses, community groups and not-for-profits that help make Greater Geelong a vibrant place to live.

This year the City has dedicated $2.85 million to the program to fund projects spanning Community Infrastructure, Arts Projects, Clean Economy, Climate Change Partnerships, Community Events, EnvironmentalSustainability,Community Strengthening, Community Equipment and Creative Seed categories.

A diverse range of local projects and initiatives were successful in their application for grant funding last year.

OceanGroveFilmSocietywasabletoget off the ground with a grant going towards the purchase of a state-of-the-art projector and sound equipment.

Securing this grant ensured film buffs from across the region can now gather for monthly screenings hosted at Bellarine Training and Community Hub.

Just over the bridge, the Barwon Heads Arts Council secured funding to support the continued success of the Bellarine Arts Trail. A much-loved event, the trail brings together40venuestoshowcaselocalartists in a fantastic event over the Melbourne Cup long weekend.

Sustainability initiatives were also awarded funding in the 2024-25 Community Grants, with 100 per cent

Clean Bellarine securing $21,500 for its energy assessments program.

TheprogramrunsoutofOceanGroveand Indented Head, enabling small businesses to improve their energy efficiency.

Parents for Climate was successful in its grant application to fund the One Planet

RELEVANT PERSONS CONSULTATION ON ENVIRONMENT PLANS PETROLEUM ACTIVITIES OFFSHORE PETERBOROUGH VICTORIA CONSULTATION IS CLOSING

Amplitude Energy* plans to conduct gas development drilling and gas field development work near our existing subsea infrastructure and within our existing offshore Otway Basin licence areas, offshore Peterborough, Victoria. We call this the East Coast Supply Project (ECSP)

The Otway Basin has been producing gas for decades. We plan to provide gas supply exclusively to the domestic market to help alleviate forecast shortages As part of the ECSP we are preparing two environment plans (EPs):

• ECSP: Annie-2 Development Drilling EP – covering the safe drilling and well construction of the Annie-2 development well

• ECSP: Wells Connection EP – for the connection of wells to our existing subsea pipeline

All activities under these two EPs will be carried out in Commonwealth waters, over 9 km offshore from the coast.

This phase of relevant persons consultation is closing

We initially advertised the opportunity to consult on these two EPs in late April 2025, and are now finalising consultation to prepare these EPs. If you haven’t been in touch, please do so within the next week.

For more information about our proposed projects, please see our consultation page via the QR code, or at https://amplitudeenergy.com.au/consultation

The consultation process

For information about our offshore environment plans and the consultation process, including our obligations, please visit: https://amplitudeenergy.com.au/consultation/why-we-consult

Please contact us at stakeholder@amplitudeenergy.com.au or call 61 8 8100 4900 if you would like further information on these EPs.

* Amplitude Energy is the name of the parent company of Cooper Energy (CH) Pty Ltd

12790145-EA31-25

Festival. The event is designed to empower the community to take action on climate change in a fun and engaging way.

Another fantastic community event, Tranquility at Twilight, received funding to support its annual program at Ocean Grove Park, offering a family-friendly evening with food, market stalls and live entertainment.

If you are considering applying for funding in this year’s program, don’t be deterred by the application process.

Whilegrantwritingcanbedaunting,the City has a range of information sessions to help you on your journey.

These grant-writing workshops are designed to help you craft a strong application.

Our team will take a detailed look at the application questions, explain what makes a good application and give examples of what to avoid.

Theinformationsessionswillexplainthe 2025–26grantsoffered,coverkeyeligibility criteria and highlight any changes in the guidelines.

OnWednesdayAugust20theCommunity Infrastructure grants category will be covered in a hybrid session at our Wurriki NyalcivicprecinctincentralGeelong,with options for prospective applicants to dial in.

All other categories will be discussed in hybrid sessions scheduled for Wednesday 13 August and Thursday 14 August. Our grants help turn your idea into reality. So, if you have a project that you think would make Geelong an even better place, I urge you to submit an application. To register for an information session, visit geelong.link/Grants

Focus on homelessness

Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj has announced the re-establishment of a working group dedicated to tackling homelessness in our region.

Timed to coincide with Homelessness Week 2025, the announcement on the Greater Geelong Homelessness Working Group acknowledged the magnitude of the issue.

“Data shows that throughout 2023-24, 4604 people received support for homelessness in Greater Geelong,” Mayor Kontelj said.

“Of those, 44 per cent were survivors of family and domestic violence, 12 per cent were First Nations people and 9 per cent were young people.

“On any given night, the estimated population of people experiencing homelessness in Greater Geelong is 1546.”

The new working group, which first met in April this year, is City-led but includes a range of organisations and agencies either working with or making positive changes for people experiencing homelessness.

Those stakeholders include Meli, The Salvation Army, Towards Home+ Geelong, The Orange Door and Wathaurong Aboriginal Co-operative.

“Having met several times already, the monthly group is gaining a clearer picture of homelessness in the Geelong region by sharing local data, identifying emerging issuesandcollaboratingonprojects,policy and funding initiatives,” Mayor Kontelj said.

“By working together, members are aiming to help improve services to support people experiencing homelessness and identify opportunities for action, collaboration and information sharing.”

The working group will draw on a new

research report into homelessness in the Greater Geelong region by Deakin University’s HOME Research Centre and the Give Where You Live Foundation, also released this week.

The Home Truths report revolves around the central question of how local service providerscanbestmeettheneedsofpeople facing homelessness in the region.

Give Where You Live chief executive Zac Lewis said the report shone a light on boththeissuesfacedbythosedealingwith homelessness and the action needed for long-term change in the community.

“It also confirms what many of us workinginthisspacehavesensedforsome time; that services are working tirelessly, they’re under immense pressure and the systems in place are no longer suited for the current conditions,” Mr Lewis said.

“We hope this report, which centres the voices of local practitioners and the people they support, can help inform and influence policy, service design, and funding decisions to improve how we respond to homelessness in Geelong.”

Leopold ward councillor Trent Sullivan. (Supplied)

Give Where You Live CEO Zac Lewis addresses the Home Truths research launch. (Supplied)

Roadworks head to Stage 2

FCCConstructionAustraliaandBildGroup willdeliverthefirstpartofthe$318million Barwon Heads Road Upgrade – Stage 2.

The first part of Stage 2 will involve the addition of new lanes along the 3.5km stretch between Reserve Road in Charlemont and Lake Road in Armstrong Creek.

The project will also upgrade key intersections at Warralily Boulevard, Central Boulevard and Precinct Road, install traffic lights at Newport Drive and Boundary Road, and build signalised pedestriancrossingsnearBuildStreetand

the northern end of Harriot Road.

New shared walking and cycling paths and dedicated cycling lanes to improve safetyandtrafficflowwillalsobedelivered as part of the upgrade.

In this year’s Federal Budget, the federal government committed an additional $68.2milliontowardstheproject,bringing the total to $193 million. This will ensure full delivery of the project, including the next section of the upgrade between Lake Road and Lower Duneed Road.

Over the past month, crews have been undertaking utility relocations and site

Gallop of support needed

By Jena Carr

APortarlingtoncharityiscallingforhelpto support the animals in its care, after every horse celebrated its birthday last week.

The Winged Horse Equine Welfare has calledfordonationstohelpfundtherescue andrehabilitationoftheanimalsinitscare, followingtheincreasedcostofanimalfeed and operational expenses.

Founder Carolyn Bischoff said The Winged Horse was a vital sanctuary running for close to 12 years.

“We rescue and rehabilitate neglected and abused horses and ponies, but we also take in other farm animals like chickens, pigs, ducks, alpacas, and goats, along with a couple of cats and dogs,” she said.

“We also do a fair amount of palliative work, so the horses that come in with substantial health issues will often stay with us, and most of them tend to live long lives.

“We are at a critical juncture and the

demand for our services is constant, but the resources to meet that demand are dwindling. Every horse we take in represents a life saved and a story of resilience.”

MsBischoffsaidAugust1wasrecognised as every horse’s birthday in the southern hemisphere, as horse birth records were not always readily available.

“It’salovelydaytocelebratebecausealot of the horses that come in, we don’t know what their true birthday is and often you don’t really know their full history,” she said.

“It takes about $7000 to rehabilitate one horseandthenonceyou’vegotthemgoing, it’s upwards of $50 a week in maintenance and that also depends on whether they’re special needs.”

The charity is also seeking more volunteers to join its feed-out crew and help support animals needing love and care. Visit thewingedhorse.org for more information.

office works, paving the way for major constructiontobegininthecomingweeks.

“This important project needs to be delivered in its entirety for the Bellarine community and the many visitors who use it and the adjoining roads,” Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government Catherine King said.

“Our additional commitment this year willensurethishappensandwillmeanthe thousands of people who rely on Barwon Heads Road every day get to where they need to go sooner and safer.”

The first stage of the Barwon Road Upgrade was completed in 2023 with the project duplicating 4km of the road and 4km of new shared walking and cycling paths, along with dedicated on-road cycling lanes.

The Barwon Heads Road Upgrade –Stage 2 (Reserve Road to Lower Duneed Road) is expected to be completed in late 2028.

“The Barwon Heads Road Upgrade will cut congestion for locals that depend on these roads every day,” Federal Member for Corangamite Libby Coker said.

A community that supports a lifestyle to be envied

As winter winds down, August offers a moment to pause – to retreat from the rush, reset your routine, and reconnect with what matters most.

It’s often in these quieter moments that we start thinking about what really adds value to our lives: good health, meaningful connection, and a lifestyle that makes space for wellbeing.

That’s exactly what life at Lifestyle Communities is all about.

Here, you’ll find more than just thoughtfully designed, low-maintenance homes.

Exclusively available to homeowners, ourLifestyleWellnessProgramisdesigned to support every part of your wellbeing –physically, mentally and socially.

It brings together everything from yoga toagameofbowlswithfriends,tocreative workshops and social gatherings over coffee.

Whether you’re diving into something new or rediscovering an old passion, there’s always something to re-energise and inspire you.

Thebestpart?Itallhappensrightwithin your community, and at your pace. Do a little or do a lot. The choice is yours.

“Before joining the community, my husband spent most of his time alone,” a homeowner from Lifestyle Kaduna Park said. “Retirement and Parkinson’s had isolated him socially. Now, he’s thriving – playing bowls, joining committees, and building strong friendships. The change in lifestyle and regular exercise has noticeably improved his health, and

Lifestyle Ocean Grove. (Supplied)

The Winged Horse Equine Welfare volunteer Eva McGowan with Rainbeau. (Ivan Kemp) 493142_09

Relive the Dire Straits era

By Matt Hewson

Thisweek,Drysdale’sPotatoShedwillhost a local production celebrating the music, impact and story of timeless rock band Dire Straits.

Written by local historian, writer and performer Colin Mockett, Money For Nothing (And Your Chicks For Free) features Mockett’s retelling of the Dire Straits’ meteoric rise to fame and eventual disbandment interspersed by a four-piece

band of local musicians performing the bands’ songs.

Mockett said the band’s story was a “20th century fairy story”, with the band emerging from obscurity to become the world’s biggest rock group.

“They basically seemed to appear from nowhere and go straight to the top of the American hit parade,” he said.

“It was something of a lucky chance, because the record company in London sentthefirstdemotapeovertoNewYorkto

say,shouldwesignthisgroup?Andonthat demo was Sultans of Swing.

“The New York company released the song to a couple of radio disc jockeys to see what sort of reaction it got, and it got a huge reaction from people wanting to buy the record. They were signed… then turned into the biggest band in the world; bigger than the Beatles, bigger than the Stones, bigger than all of them.

“Thentheydecidedtheydidn’twanttodo

it anymore… they didn’t like the lifestyle, so they just walked away.”

The band features veteran musicians Geoff Sinnbeck and Trevor Harrison, who are joined by young guns Evan Kennedy and Adam Powell.

Money For Nothing (And Your Chicks For Free) is at the Potato Shed at 10.30am on Tuesday, August 12.

Visit geelongaustralia.com.au/ potatoshed for tickets and more information.

Chamber choir’s musical journey of loss and healing

Music lovers have the chance to hear one of Australia’s foremost choral groups when Music at the Basilica presents the Australian Chamber Choir’s Renaissance Requiem this weekend.

Described by reviewers as projecting “beguiling serenity” and a “celestial sound”,theAustralianChamberChoirwill perform a program of works including two premieres at the Basilica of St Mary of the Angels at 3.30pm on Sunday, August 10.

The core of the program is esteemed composer Gordon Kerry’s newly commissioned Requiem, created specifically with the Australian Chamber Choir in mind..

The Requiem will be punctuated by music setting English texts from the 16th and 17th centuries, known as England’s ’golden age’, including works from Thomas Tomkins, Thomas Morley, William Byrd andJohnDowland,aswellastheAustralian premiere of Morten Lauridsen’s ethereal O Magnum Mysterium.

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Conductor and choir co-founder Elizabeth Anderson said interspersing the Requiem with other works emulated its presentation in a church service.

“Westartedtalkingabouthowyouwould present a requiem, because it’s a hefty amount of music,” Anderson said.

“If you were performing a requiem in its natural environment - a church service - you would do one movement and then there would be a prayer or a hymn, then you would do another movement… it’s all broken up.

“I said, could we do that? Break it up and make it, not the centrepiece, but the

backbone of the program? Gordon really liked that idea… he got his thinking cap on and started suggesting pieces and where they would fit in the context of the text of the Requiem.

“Thesequenceofmusicreallytellsastory ofhowhumansdealwithlossandsadness. It makes for a very serious program, but it’s a beautiful journey.”

The concert is the third date in a series of five, with four of the performances held in regional areas.

Andersonsaidbringingmusictoregional areas had been a focus of the choir “right from the very outset”.

“We have so many friends who live in regionalareasandweknowhowmuchthey enjoymusic,”shesaid.“(StMary’sBasilica) is lovely, it’s like a cathedral. Much of the music we sing was written for the church, so in that space the music just feels right.” Visit auschoir.org for tickets and more information.

BUSINESS IN PROFILE

Exclusive retirement living open day at Bellarine Lakes

Don’t miss out on a rare opportunity to secure your dream retirement lifestyle.

Withonlyafewbrand-newtwoandthree bedroom homes remaining in the final stages.

Now is the time to discover what makes this community so special before they’re all gone.

The popular three bedroom – plus study 21 square Eden Beach, and the spacious two bedroom open plan Belford Waters designhavebeenhighlysoughtafterinour last stages of development.

Visit our displays today to see these quality built homes and the retirement living options you deserve.

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’sawayoflife.Withitsownprivate 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, August 22.

Meet our friendly residents, explore our stunning display homes, and tour our exceptional resort-style facilities, spacious grounds and learn more about retirement

The Australian Chamber Choir presents Gordon Kerry’s new Requiem at St Mary’s Basilica. (Bruce Inglis)

Join Bellarine Lakes Country Club’s open day on August 22.

Sustainable Living

Building a greener future thanks to ecofriendly homes

Sustainable homes – once considered a niche concept – are now becoming a key element in designing a more responsible and resilient future. These ecofriendly dwellings are not only better for the planet, but also offer long-term economic and healthbenefitsforhomeowners.

What is a sustainable home?

A sustainable home is designed, built, and operated with minimal impact on the environment. This means reducing energy and water consumption, using renewable materials, and promoting healthier indoor environments.Fromthelayoutofthehome to the materials used in construction and the appliances installed inside, every aspect is considered through the lens of environmentalresponsibility.

Key features of sustainable homes

Energy efficiency: Sustainable homes use less energy through smart design and technology. Features may include solar panels, energy-efficient lighting and appliances, double-glazed windows, and high-quality insulation. Passive design strategies, like positioning windows to maximisenaturallightandventilation,also reducetheneedforheatingandcooling.

Water conservation: Low-flow taps and toilets, rainwater tanks, and grey-water recycling systems are common in ecofriendly homes. These reduce water use andtakepressureofflocalwatersupplies.

Eco-friendlymaterials: Buildingmaterials such as recycled timber, bamboo, rammed earth, or reclaimed bricks reduce the carbon footprint of construction. Many sustainable homes also prioritise locally

Smart home technology

Automated systems for lighting, heating, and cooling allow homeowners to monitor and control their energy usage more effectively. Smart meters and home energy management systems help optimise consumptionandreducewaste.

Lower utility bills: Energy-efficient systems and solar power can dramatically cutelectricityandwatercosts.

Increased comfort: Smart design keeps homes warmer in winter and cooler in summer.

Improvedhealth: Cleaner air and natural materialssupportoverallwellbeing. Higher property value: As awareness grows, homes with green credentials are increasinglyindemand.

Sustainable living starts at home

Creatingasustainablehomedoesn’talways mean starting from scratch. Retrofitting existing homes with solar panels, efficient appliances, and improved insulation can make a significant difference. Even simple changes like switching to LED lighting or installing water-saving devices can contributetoamoreecofriendlylifestyle.

The future is green

With growing environmental awareness and support from government incentives, sustainable homes are no longer just the preserve of ecowarriors or architects with bold visions. They are fast becoming the standard for modern living. Whether building new or renovating old, choosing sustainability means choosing a better future – for ourselves, our communities, andtheplanet.

Benefits for homeowners

Investing in a sustainable home pays off in manyways:

Interested in making your home more sustainable? Start small. Conduct a home energy audit, explore rebates for solar installation, or look into ecofriendly buildingmaterialsforyournextrenovation. Every step counts on the path to a greener lifestyle.

Passion and precision

Comfort, performance and precision. Built into every project.

At Conscious Construction Co., we are custom architectural builders who specialise in high-performance homes, combining design precision with technical excellence. We work across Geelong, the Surf Coast and Bellarine, delivering both new homes and renovations that are energy-efficient, carefully considered and built to last. Whether you’re just starting to plan or already working with a designer, we can support your project.

As an accredited Passive House (Passivhaus) builder, we apply proven principles that significantly reduce heating and cooling demand while enhancing indoor comfort and air quality. Even when certification isn’t part of the brief, we bring the same attention to insulation, airtightness, thermal bridging and material selection to every project.

From performance-led new builds to carefully considered renovations, we help clients turn their homes into spaces that feel better to live in. Comfortable year-round, technically sound and ready for the future. Our team collaborates closely with homeowners, architects and consultants to ensure performance and design are considered at every step.

If you’re planning a new home or renovation and want to understand how performance-first thinking can shapetheoutcome,getintouchorvisit our website at consciousconstruction. com.au to learn more. Plan with confidence. Build with precision.

sourced materials to limit transportation emissions.

Indoor air quality: Sustainable homes often incorporate materials with low or no volatile organic compounds (VOCs), improving indoor air quality. Proper ventilation systems and non-toxic finishes contributetoahealthierlivingspace.

Winki is leading the way in solar and battery solutions Sustainable Living

WinkiEnergyisatrustednameinsolarand battery solutions, delivering high-quality installationsacrossawidespectrum-from small residential systems to large-scale commercialandutilityprojects.

With offices in Torquay and Melbourne, WinkiEnergyblendsregional values with the expertise and capability tomanageprojectsofanyscale.

Founded in Torquay by Steve Cox, a licensed electrician and CEC-accredited solar and battery specialist with more than 17 years of industry experience, Winki Energy has grown to become one of Victoria’s premier solar installation companies.

From its humble beginnings servicing homes in the Surf Coast region, the companynowoperatesacrossallofVictoria.

In 2024 alone, Winki Energy installed over 8MW of solar capacity - the equivalent of approximately20,000panels.

The team comprises 32 professionals, including 13 CEC-accredited electricians, 10 apprentices, and a dedicated operations, sales,andsupportdivision.Allinstallations are completed in-house, ensuring consistentqualityandeliminatingtheneed forthird-partysubcontractors.

While the business has grown significantly, Winki Energy remains firmly rooted in its founding values: integrity, safety, quality, and exceptional customer service. With full-time teams based in Torquay, Geelong, and Melbourne, the companyiscommittedtolong-termsupport -notjustasaserviceprovider,butascareer electricians who stand behind their work and honour their warranties for years to come.

Why partner with Winki Energy? Comprehensive warranties: 10-year workmanship warranty, 10-year inverter warranty, and 25-year product and performancewarrantiesonsolarpanels.

Expertlydesignedsystems: Every solar and battery solution is designed by qualified professionals to ensure optimal performanceandvalue.

Accredited professionals: All systems are installed by licensed electricians and CEC-accreditedsolarinstallers.

Transparent, accurate quotes: Performanceestimatesarebasedonreliable data and conservative cost assumptionsnohiddensurprises.

Winki Energy is proud to be part of Victoria’srenewableenergyfuture.Whether you’reahomeowner,business,ordeveloper, they’reheretohelpyoumakethetransition to clean, reliable, and affordable energybackedbyateamyoucantrust.

Winki Energy is a team you can trust.

CELEBRATING SENIORS

Simple habits with big impact to keep your brain healthy

As life expectancy continues to rise, so does the focus on how to age well — not just physically, but mentally. Experts say that keeping the brain active is one of the most effective ways to preserve memory, sharpen thinking skills, and reduce the risk ofcognitivedecline.

“Your brain is like a muscle — if you don’t use it, you lose it,” says Dr Helen Rhodes, a neurologistspecialisingincognitiveaging.

“The good news is that small, everyday activitiescanmakeabigdifference.”

Researchhasshownthatolderadultswho staymentallyandsociallyengagedaremore likely to maintain their cognitive function. Frompuzzlesandreadingtosocialisingand learning new skills, experts recommend a multi-facetedapproach.

One growing trend is the number of seniors enrolling in online courses or community education programs. Websites like Coursera and local libraries offer free classes on everything from art history to computerscience.

“Learning something new — especially a challengingsubjectorskill—stimulatesthe brain and builds new neural connections,” explainsDrRhodes.

For 72-year-old retired teacher Mark Wilkins, that meant picking up the guitar forthefirsttime.

“It’s hard, but it’s exciting. I can actually feel myself concentrating differently than I used to,” he says. “It makes me feel young again.”

The Power of Social Connection

Equally important, experts say, is staying sociallyconnected.Lonelinessandisolation

have been linked to increased risk of dementia.Groupactivities,phonecallswith lovedones,andvolunteeringcanallhelp.

“I host a weekly Scrabble night with neighbors,” says 68-year-old Margo Elkins. “It’sfun,competitive,andweallfeelsharper afterward.”

Diet, Exercise, and Sleep Matter Too Brain health isn’t just about mental challenges. Regular physical activity boosts blood flow to the brain and improves memory and mood. A balanced diet rich in leafy greens, berries, and omega-3 fatty acidsisalsorecommended.

“People underestimate how important good sleep is,” Dr Rhodes adds. “The brain does its cleanup work at night. If you’re not sleepingwell,you’renotgivingitthechance torecover.”

Tech Tools for a Healthy Mind

Apps like Lumosity, Elevate, and even Duolingo are increasingly popular among older adults looking to stay mentally fit. While not a substitute for real-life learning orsocialisation,thesetoolsofferaneasyand accessiblesupplement.

A Holistic Approach

There’s no single trick to keeping the brain sharp, but combining physical, mental, and socialactivitiesgivesthebestresults.

“Staying mentally active is about more than just preventing decline,” says Dr Rhodes. “It’s about maintaining independence,purpose,andjoyasyouage.”

In other words: Use it — and enjoy it — or loseit.

Home Care Package Provider

Care you’ll never forget

Just Better Care provides support that is hard to forget, allowing everyone to continue living a safe, healthy and happy life at home.

As one of Australia’s largest providers of in-home aged care and disability support services, Just Better Care has a skilled team of passionate people.

Client Marion Cruickshank said that the staff at Just Better Care provide her with the highest quality of care.

“Staff are very kind, empathetic and patient,” she said.

“My memory isn’t very good. My daughter does help me when she can,

however it is also nice to have someone else I can count on such as the staff at Just Better care.

“They help me with my gardening, physio, social support, transport, meals and domestic assistance all via my government home care package.”

To start your Just Better Care journey, call 03 5222 1518, email mailge@ justbettercare.com or visit the caring team at their office at Level 1, 114a Mt Pleasant Road in Belmont. Visit justbettercare.com/Geelong for more information.

Just Better Care client Marion Cruickshank.

CELEBRATING SENIORS

Smile brighter with Affordable Denture Clinic in East Geelong

Achieve a confident, radiant smile with the expert care of the team at Affordable DentureClinic,nowwelcomingpatientsat theirnewlocationinEastGeelong.

With more than a decade of dedicated service, the clinic offers a comprehensive range of dental solutions, including full andpartialdentures,custommouthguards andimplant-retaineddentures.

Led by owner and seasoned dental prosthetistJasonDemko,whobringsmore than30yearsofexperiencetothefield,the clinic has recently opened its doors at 306 MyersStreet,EastGeelong.

Jasonandhisskilledteamarecommitted to helping you discover the best options to achieveyouridealsmile.

Staying abreast of the latest advancements in dental prosthetics, Jason integratesmoderntechniquesandsystems intoeveryaspectofhiswork.

Notably, Affordable Denture Clinic is the only practice in Geelong and the surroundingdistrictauthorizedtoprovide and manufacture Valplast denturesflexible, metal-free options that come with anunbreakablelifetimeguarantee.

Jason and his team pride themselves on delivering personalised care in a welcomingenvironment.

“We are a family-owned business committed to providing highly personalised services to each individual,” Jasonsays.

The new East Geelong clinic stands as a testament to years of dedication, aiming to offer clients the very best in denture care.

Jason acknowledges that this achievement wouldn’t have been possible

without the unwavering support of his loyalclientsandthebroadercommunity. To make denture care more accessible,

Affordable Denture Clinic offers flexible payment options through Afterpay and DentiCare.

Jason Demko with patient Eddie Fraser.

FROM THE ARCHIVES

Ocean Grove Voice looks back through the pages of our predecessors

8 years ago

August 2 to 15, 2017

Organisers estimate the Light of Day Australia Winter Gigs raised in excess of $18,000.

The Winter Gigs were held in Ocean Grove on 21 and 22 July.

6 years ago

July 31 to August 13, 2019

The Bellarine Peninsula will benefit from increased bus services on weekends, the state government announced.

Member for Bellarine Lisa Neville announced three extra weekend services on the four bus routes that run to and from towns on the Bellarine.

4 years ago

August 13 to 26, 2021

Imagine running 375 kilometres in nine days with a 14 kilogram backpack strapped to your body.

Murray Pearce did exactly that, running between Barwon Heads and MyrtlefordinVictoria’snortheastallfor charity.

Spring is set to take

There’s been a hint of spring in the air with a few lovely sunny days over the past week.

Withonlythreeroundstogointhehome and away AFL footy season, it certainly feels like it won’t be long until we are experiencing warmer weather, and many birds will move around the continent to prepare for breeding.

I haven’t had a chance to venture out and about over the past few weeks, so it’s fortunate that I’ve received some great observations from Voice readers.

Pete, from Ocean Grove, was walking near the picnic area at Moggs Creek on the Surf Coast when he came across a magnificent powerful owl perched in a tree holding its breakfast, which was a ring-tailed possum.

Powerful owls can often be seen holding on to the previous night’s catch while roosting for the day.

IreceivedanemailfromKevin,whowith his wife Anne Maree, went to Winchelsea wheretherewasn’tmuchwindandthesun was shining, so it was a good day for bird spotting.

While there were no little corellas (that’s surprising Kevin), there were quite a few small birds, some of which were quite friendly.Hecaughtacoupleofmalesuperb fairy wrens, a grey shrike thrush as well as a more distant white-browed scrubwren.

The Barwon River at Winchelsea is a haven for little corellas and there are usually hundreds of these birds there, as wellasnearthegrainstorageareanearthe highway. Maybe they have flown to Ocean Grove, as there is certainly a sizeable flock hanging around Ray Menzies Oval.

A football game was being played on the oval recently and I noticed at least 50 of these birds trying to feed while the game was in progress.

I received a great message from Carole, whowasdrivingatPortarlingtonwhenone of the best birds ever - a spotted harrierperched on a fence and allowed her to take some photos. Carole explained that the bird didn’t look very pleased to have its photo taken, but she just sat in the car and admired it, as it glared at her.

From my experience harriers (swamp

2 years ago

August 11 to 24, 2023

Ride the Bellarine for SIDS is closing in on $35,000 raised for Red Nose Day and the event keeps getting bigger. What started as a 25km walk from Geelong to Lara in 2020 is now a 110km ride around the Bellarine Peninsula.

and spotted) do not like human confrontation (understandably) and they do not hang around for photos, so I was in awe of Carole’s pic.

I received an email from Alan, who had a quick trip to Anglesea last weekend. It was so cold and windy, so there were no birds other than a beautiful white-eared honeyeater.

The photo was a good test for Alan’s new camerabody(OMSYSTEMOM1)whichhas AI bird recognition.

Eveninthelowlight,itwasabletodetect

the bird in amongst the branches and foliage then focus on the eye and body resulting in a decent shot that Alan would have struggled to get with his previous camera body (without AI). Alan was pleased to report that the water quality at Blue Waters Lake has improved. The persistent blue-green algae appears to haveclearedaftermorethaneightmonths, but Alan did notice it in the creek last week flowing out through the golf course. Hopefully it will be completely flushed out with a bit more rain.

Left: Carole’s spotted harrier at Portarlington. Top right: Kevin’s grey shrike thrush at Winchelsea. Right: Pete’s powerful owl at Moggs Creek.

Embrace the changing season with lighter meal options

There may be three weeks of winter left, butthedaysarestartingtogetwarmerand longer,sowethoughtwe’dbringsomeearly spring food ideas a tiny bit early. Spring is perfect for lighter, brighter dishes that highlight the delicate flavours of young vegetables, tender greens, and fresh herbs. Whether you’re planning a garden party, a family brunch, or simply want to enjoy the best of spring’s bounty, here are some delightful spring recipes that celebrate the season’s best ingredients.

Asparagus and pea risotto

Asparagus and peas are quintessential spring vegetables, and when combined in a creamy risotto, they create a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing.

Ingredients:

1 cup Arborio rice

1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces

1 cup fresh or frozen peas

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups vegetable broth, kept warm

1/2 cup dry white wine

1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh lemon juice and zest (optional) Freshherbslikeparsleyormintforgarnish

Instructions:

Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sauteing until softened.

Stir in the Arborio rice, coating it with the oil and toasting for about 2 minutes.

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Pour in the white wine, stirring constantly until it is absorbed.

Add the warm vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring frequently. Allow the liquid to absorb before adding more.

When the rice is nearly cooked (about 15 minutes), add the asparagus and peas, continuing to cook until the rice is tender andthevegetablesarejustcookedthrough.

Stir in the butter, Parmesan cheese, and season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Garnish with fresh herbs and lemon zest before serving.

Spring green salad with honey-lemon vinaigrette

This salad is a celebration of all things green,showcasingthebestofspring’sleafy vegetables and herbs.

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In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, snap peas, cucumber, mint, and parsley.

Drizzle the salad with the vinaigrette and toss gently to combine.

Top with crumbled feta cheese and toasted pine nuts before serving.

Lemon herb roasted chicken

This simple yet flavourful dish is perfect for a Sunday roast or a casual dinner. The combination of lemon and fresh herbs infuses the chicken with a bright, zesty flavour.

Ingredients:

1 whole chicken (about 1.8kg)

1 lemon, quartered

4 cloves garlic, crushed

1/4 cup fresh herbs (like rosemary, thyme, and parsley)

3 tablespoons olive oil

Ingredients:

4 cups mixed spring greens (like arugula, spinach, and baby kale)

1/2 cup snap peas, halved

1 cucumber, thinly sliced

1/4 cup fresh mint leaves

1/4 cup fresh parsley leaves

1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese

1/4 cup toasted pine nuts

For the Honey-Lemon Vinaigrette:

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

1 tablespoon honey

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil,lemonjuice,honey,Dijonmustard,salt, and pepper until well combined.

• Iconic Bellarine winery

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• OPEN 7 Days

85 McAdams Lane, Bellarine 03 5251 2223 jackrabbitvineyard.com.au

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Salt and pepper to taste

1/2 cup white wine or chicken broth

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 220°C.

Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Rub the olive oil all over the chicken and season generously with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the lemon quarters, garlic, and fresh herbs. Tie the legs together with kitchen twine and place the chicken on a rack in a roasting pan.

Pour the white wine or chicken broth into the bottom of the roasting pan.

Roastthechickenforabout1hourand20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 74°C.

Letthechickenrestfor10minutesbefore carving and serving.

THE RANGE @CURLEWIS

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• Lunch / Dinner / Snacks

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JACK RABBIT VINEYARD

LEURA PARK ESTATE

Shopping and dining local in Ocean Grove

Jennifer wins Shop Local comp

Jennifer Smith was the lucky winner of our Shop Local and Win competition.

Jenniferwona$300shoppingspree while supporting six amazing local businesses. She won a $50 voucher fromeachofthesixbusinesses. That’s $300 to splurge on fashion, food,gifts,homewaresandmore. ThepromotionranuntilJuly24.

Jennifer and her husband Alan live inPortarlington. They are most looking forward to using their voucher at Hive, Portarlington as Jennifer enjoys shoppinglocallywherepossible.

The six businesses who participated were -TheTinShed -KalaGreekRestaurant -PortarlingtonKitchen&Bar -LamiSaruBoutique -OceanGroveHomeHardware -HivePortarlington

Linda Nash.

Linda Newstead.

Michelle McNaughton and her mother Patty.

Corey Daniel.

Rod Hemmink and Alison Spence.

Far left: Rod Swan. Left: Sandra Murphy and Val Cassidy. Above: Toni Hogg. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 493585

Jennifer Smith of Portarlington won the Shop Local & Win competition and husband Alan was only too happy to pick up the prizes on her behalf.

PUZZLES

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

ACROSS

1 Strike (3)

3 Murder a politically important person (11)

9 Cowboy literary genre (7)

10 Print process (7)

11 Trustworthy (8)

12 Leave off (6)

14 Aye (3)

15 Debates (11)

17 Not anxious (11)

19 Buddhist temple or monastery (3)

20 Peril (6)

21 Despot (8)

24 Speech (7)

25 Stamp (7)

26 A phrase marked off by brackets (11)

27 Lord (3) DOWN

1 Common greeting question (3,3,3)

2 Fights (7)

and

No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns

3 Playground (5)

4 They protect the eyes from glare (10)

5 Staunch (4)

6 Made greater (9)

7 Japanese emperor from 1989 (7)

8 Type of boat used in rowing competition (5)

13 Amounts (10)

15 Flower tea (9)

16 Soaked (9)

18 Mythical horse-man (7)

19 Soaking (7)

20 Sag (5)

22 Ribbons (5)

23 2.54cm (4)

No. 281

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.

Barwon Heads Senior Citizens

Crazy whist: Join a friendly group to play this easy to learn card game at Clifford Parade, Barwon Heads, 10am-noon Mondays. $2, morning tea supplied.

Ocean Grove Day VIEW

Meets second Wednesday of the month at 360Q, Queenscliff, 10.30am for 11am.

 oceangroveday.viewclub@gmail.com

Ballroom dance

Leopold Hall, Leopold Hall, 805-809 Bellarine Highway, Saturday August 9, 7.30-10.30pm, $10 includes supper, music Charles. Sunday August 10, 2-4.30pm, $5 bring a small plate. Music: Kevin.

 0419 463 306

Ocean Grove Snooker Club

Avenue Avengers are a snooker team who play for Ocean Grove Snooker Club. The club, which has 12 teams, has been playing for 49 years. Matches are highly competitive but played in great spirit, with refreshments and supper at the end. Next year’s 50th season is highly anticipated and celebrations are being planned. Avenue Avengers are looking to bolster numbers.

 0448 391 366

Bellarine Historical Society Inc.

Open to the public. Discover the area’s past. 1st & 3rd Sundays, 10.30am-12.30pm, Courthouse Museum, 11 High Street, Drysdale.

 Ann, 0407 234 541

Portarlington playgroup

Experience play in an unstructured, relaxed environment. Large indoor space with toilets and baby change facilities. Suits 0-4years. Free to attend. Wednesdays 10am-11.30am, Parks Hall Portarlington.

Ocean Grove Library

Wednesday August 20, 2-3pm: book chat Wednesday August 27, 5.30-6.30pm: author talk with Gail Holmes - In the Margins

Thursdays 3-4pm Tech Help - drop in session for basic tech needs

Mondays 10.30-11.30am Preschool story time Tuesdays 4-5pm Youth Collective (ages 12-18)

Wednesdays 9.30-10am Toddler Time Thursdays 11.30-11.50am Baby Time Thursdays 3.45-4.45pm After School Program

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

Live music

Bellarine Country Music Group meets Friday nights at Belmont Park Pavilion, music 7-10pm, $10 entry all welcome.

Croquet

Drysdale Bowling & Croquet Club, Clifton Springs Road, Tuesdays from 10am for

Vietnam Veterans’ Day Commemorative Service

Ocean Grove Barwon Heads RSL Sub-branch service, Monday August 18, 11am, Ocean Grove Park Cenotaph. Veterans’ and family can go to Ocean Grove Bowling Club afterwards for refreshments.

training, bring a friend.

 0428 740 591

Ocean Grove Soft Tennis

Friendly group of active women retirees who have played soft tennis for many years. The game is similar to Pickleball. Ocean Grove Memorial Hall, 123 The Avenue, Mondays 1.30-3.30pm. No experience necessary. Just a desire to keep fit and have fun.

 Megan, 0439 317 344

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 1-3.15pm. Admission: $4 includes afternoon tea.

 0400 500 402

Scottish country dancing classes

GOG Scottish Country Dance classes

7.30pm Tuesdays at Leopold Hill Hall, $5. No partner needed, just comfy casual clothing and flat shoes.

 Jane, 0481 126 022, or Barbara, 0419 511 781

Ocean Grove Senior Citizens 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove Weekly

Tuesday: 1pm, snooker, chess, indoor bowls. Wednesday: 1.30pm, bingo. 2pm, ukulele class. 4pm, chord club jam session. Thursday: 1pm, craft & chat, snooker, cards 500, social afternoons. Friday: 9am, art classes, 1pm, cards 500. Fortnightly

CWA 1st & 3rd Monday 2.30pm

 Kareen, 0419 246 346, or Janis, 5255 4585

Book club, Wednesday 10.30am. Paul 0425-110 792

 Dianne, 5255 1372

TOWN club

The Springs TOWN Club (Take Off Weight Naturally) meets Mondays, 9-10.30am at the Community Hub, 23 Eversley Street, Drysdale. Weigh-in, group therapy and regular relaxation sessions. Cost: $5 per

session, $54 annual fee.

 Bev, 0421 636 830

Drysdale Day VIEW

Supporting The Smith Family for fun and friendship while supporting disadvantaged Students. Meetings at Portarlington Golf Club for lunch on the fourth Friday of each month.

 Margaret, 0431 636 090

Ocean Grove Evening VIEW Meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 6.30pm. Supporting disadvantaged children through education.

 oceangroveevening.viewclub@gmail. com

Ocean Grove on Barwon Probus Meets 9.45am for 10am every third Wednesday at Ocean Grove Golf Club.

 gwen.anne.james@gmail.com

Drysdale Ladies Probus Club Meets at 10.30am on the fourth Monday of each month at the Clifton Springs Golf Club.

 Raelene, 4244 0376

Afternoon tea dance Life Activities Club [Geelong Inc] hosts an afternoon tea dance on Thursdays, 2-4pm, at Belmont Park Pavilion. Entry: $5.

 5251 3529

CWA Drysdale Meets Drysdale RSL, Princess Street, Drysdale on the second Tuesday of the month. Meetings start at 1pm followed by afternoon tea. Friendly group looking to recruit new members.

 Jenni, 0452 258 333

Out & about on the sand

Voice photographer Ivan Kemp was at Ocean Grove main beach on a mild early August Monday to see who was out and about.

Tate Van Den Bosch with Tide.

Maddie McQuade with Sunni and nana Lisa with Saylor.

Left: David and Pat Polson. Centre: Nikita Harris with sons Logan and Maddox. Right: Ian Coggins and Craig Robertson. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 493584

Left: Mini Melzak and Jun Sheehan just out of the surf. Centre: Laura Carr with daughter Imogen. Right: Mark and Margaret Houghton (top); Jorja Wernert.

Hannah Meade with her son Eddie, and Josie with daughters Scarlet and Faith.

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Who did Iga Swiatek defeat 6–0, 6–0 in the 2025 Wimbledon women’s singles final?

2. And what bread-related nickname does this scoreline bear?

3. True or false: Tiger Woods has never competed at the Olympic Games?

4. In which city will the 2026 Tour de France begin?

5. Which prestigious sports award is named after Herbert Henry Messenger?

6. Cross-code athlete Sheridan Gallagher plays in which two Australian sports leagues?

7. Which current AFL coach was named in the 2004 Greek Team of the Century?

Championship was held in which US state?

And which US state has hosted the most PGA Championships, including the first iteration in 1916?

Which team won the 2024 AFLW Grand

How many consecutive VFL grand finals did Hawthorn contest in the 1980s?

Norwegian Olympic bronze medallist

Audun

Grønvold recently died after being struck by what natural force?

13. In chess, how many types of pieces can be moved diagonally?

14. Which Sauber F1 driver scored a podium finish at the British GP, his first in 239 career races?

15. What score were the West Indies dismissed for in their second innings of the third Test against Australia?

16. And which popular Australian fast bowler took a hat-trick in the process?

17. After his Wimbledon victory, how many grand slam titles has Jannik Sinner now won in total?

18. Courtside is a new retail and recreation business in Melbourne founded by which two current NBA players?

19. Which thoroughbred horseracing and breeding operation sold over $2 million worth of readyto-race horses in July?

20. Actor Adam Driver portrayed which legendary motor racing icon in a 2023 biopic?

21. How many golfing major championships has Scottie Scheffler won?

22. The Australian Opals defeated which nation in the final of the recent FIBA Women’s Asia Cup?

23. What stadium is hosting the 2025 Super Netball Grand Final?

24. What sport does the athlete awarded the largest sporting contract of all time play?

25. The sport of dragon boating originated in which country?

26. In which year will Papua New Guinea join the NRL competition?

27. The British & Irish Lions recently played in which Australian city for the first time since 1888?

29.

future Australian sporting team?

30. True or false: women were not allowed to compete at the first modern Olympic Games in 1896?

28. Who captained the First Nations and Pasifika XV in their recent match against the British and Irish Lions?

Rum’un is the mascot of which

Cannon difficult to ignore

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

As the price of 4×4 sports utilities continue to climb, Great Wall’s Cannon ute is an attractive alternative.

It’s not just a little cheaper but a lot cheaper than the front runners of the segment, and not at the expense of build quality these days.

While Toyota’s Hilux tops out at more than$70,000andtheFordRangerRaptorat morethan$90,000,youcangetintoatopof the line Cannon XSR for as little as $49,990 - that’s drive away.

And that’s becoming difficult to ignore.

Styling

GWM has rationalised the Cannon lineup, pruning the seven models to just four, all packing the same 2.4-litre turbocharged diesel.

The range kicks off with the Lux priced from $40,490, followed by Ultra from $43,490, Vanta from $45,490 and XSR from $49,990 - all prices drive away for private buyers.

The larger Alpha variants come with the same 2.4-litre turbo-diesel, with the Lux priced from $51,990 and Ultra from $57,990.

The Alpha is also available as a hybrid and plug-in hybrid.

Our test vehicle was the second cab off the rank, the Cannon Ultra.

The Cannon has been given a mid-life makeover with a more sophisticated look and feel.

Standard equipment includes artificial leather and single zone climate air with rear outlet, power-adjust driver seat, heated and cooled front seats, heated steering wheel and ambient cabin lighting and fold out tailgate step.

There’s also auto high beam, LED front and rear lights, adaptive cruise control, traffic sign recognition, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, auto wipers, rear privacy glass and a powered sunroof.

Side steps and a chrome sports bar are standardandthereartailgatenowfeatures large embossed GWM branding for a stronger road presence.

Cannon is backed by a seven-year/ unlimited kilometre warranty, five-year roadside assistance and five-year capped price servicing.

Infotainment

Infotainment is accessed through a 12.3-inch touchscreen, with Bluetooth, voice control, AM/FM and DAB+ digital radio, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and six-speaker audio.

There’salsowirelessphonechargingplus front (1 x USB-A and 1 x USB-C) and rear (2 x USB-A) and a USB-A port for dashcam along with three pre-wired 12v accessory buttons.

Safety

Cannon carries a five-star safety rating, with seven airbags and features a suite of advanced active and passive safety technologies.

Autonomous emergency braking (Car-to-Car and Vulnerable Road User) as well as a lane support system with lane keep assist (LKA), lane departure warning (LDW) and emergency lane keeping (ELK), and an advanced speed assistancesystem(SAS)arestandardonall variants.

There’s also blind spot monitor, rear cross traffic alert with brake, driver fatigue monitoring system, door open/vehicle approach warning (DOW), 360 degree overhead camera and front and rear parking sensors.

The rear seat has two ISOFix mounts and top tethers for child seats.

Engines/transmissions

A 2.4-litre single turbo-diesel four-cylinder enginedelivers135kWofpowerat3600rpm and 480Nm of torque from 1500-2500 rpm. It features an ‘advanced’ variable geometry turbocharger which GWM says optimises the aspect ratio at both low and high revs, reducing turbo lag while maintaining efficiency at higher speeds.

The diesel is paired with an in-house nine-speed conventional torque converter auto, with gear change paddles.

Driving

You’ve seen one ute, you’ve seen them all. There’s not much to differentiate them, apart from their size.

Their purpose dictates their shape and there’s not much scope to do anything with the rear, with vertical style tail lights almost mandatory.

All the action can be found up front and the only company that has tried to do anything remotely different here is Mazda.

Butitssmiley-facedBT-50gotthethumbs down from conservative buyers and a ‘bolder’ look followed.

All this leads us to the fact that Great Wall’s Cannon does not stray far from the formula and we reckon it bears a passing resemblance to the Hilux.

At 5416mm in length with a 3230mm wheelbase and 2630mm long tub, Cannon is no shrinking violet.

Nowhere is its size more evident than in the large 13.1 metre turning circle. That means plenty of three-point turns.

At least it’s not as large as the silly ‘full-size’ American pick-ups however that seem to be gaining traction here.

If you have to have one, do the rest of us a favour and stay out of carparks.

Rear legroom in the Cannon is generous, the tub has a moulded liner and there’s a handy pop-out step that makes access to the tub easier (but there’s nowhere to hang on).

Also, the driver side support cable protruded from the gap between the body and the tailgate in our test vehicle.

The tub has four tie-downs, but no light and no power outlet.

There are side steps and all doors get grab handles to make entry easier, while the overhead handle on the driver’s door has morphed into a weird sunglass holder. The centre console has two cupholders, a storage tray and cooled console box.

The engine and transmission are a lift from the larger Cannon Alpha.

It features an ‘advanced’ variable geometry turbocharger which GWM says optimises the aspect ratio at both low and

high revs, reducing turbo lag while maintaining efficiency at higher speeds.

There’s up to seven drive modes, depending on grade, including Normal, Eco, Sport, Snow, Mud, and Sand. Ultra scoresNormal,EcoandSport, as well as low range (4L).

There are also three steering settings, which helps make lighter work of the large turning circle.

RATINGS

7.5 Performance: 7.5 Safety: 7.5

Thirst: 7

Practicality: 8

Comfort: 7

Tech: 7 Value: 8 Overall: 7.4

The four-wheel drive system is a full-time, torque on demand system with an electronically activated rear diff.

Easilyengagedviaacentrallylocateddial, the Borg Warner transfer case optimises traction, stability, and performance.

XSR and Cannon Alpha models add a front locker, offering enhanced traction and control.

Ground clearance is 232mm and wading depth is 500mm, but the plastic side steps will be a limiting factor off road (and easily damaged).

With a 78-litre tank, fuel consumption is aclaimed8.4L/100km.Weclockedupmore than 300km, but can’t tell you what we got because the trip computer refused to give up its secrets.

Ultra can carry a 995kg payload while braked towing capacity has increased from 3200 to a class standard 3500kg.

Straight line performance is exemplary.

But there’s some turbo lag and the boost when it comes on is strong and unpredictable. Plonk the accelerator and you’re never quite sure what is going to happen. Sometimes it fires, sometimes it doesn’t, which can make pulling out at intersections nerve wracking.

Lifting off the accelerator on the other handdoesnotalwaysdeliveranimmediate response, with some throttle overrun - or is that turbo overrun? The first-second, second-first change invariably produces a clunk.

The lane keeping software is intrusive and insistent. We’ve found with experience thatitisbestnottofightthewheel,because in theory the car knows best. It’s a lot less strenuous to drive this way too.

However, giving the Cannon its head can result in the car over correcting and crossing the inside line which happened more than once. Ultimately this could lead to running off the road - so keep an eye on it.

Suspension is independent at the front with leaf springs under the rear and vented disc brakes at all four corners and 265/60 profile road-biased rubber.

The GitiXross HT71 tyres are designed for highways and light off-road trails, delivering durability and a quieter ride for SUVs and 4WDs.

The ride quality is generally good, but not what we’d describe as Parramatta Rd friendly. This is particularly evident compared with an SUV that has benefited from local suspension tuning.

It’s a good idea to slow down for drivewayentryandthelikewhich can be a bit calamitous.

Inside the dash is stylish and well laid out, but lacks functionality for simple often-used features.

Cannon is fitted with two computer screens: a 12.3-inch touchscreen for infotainment and a smaller 7.0-inch screen for instrumentation which sits in front of the driver.

The screens are not concealed behind a single,one-piecehousing,butsitseparately. The centre screen provides a rear and overhead view when reversing, with dynamic guidelines for backing.

Atleastit’ssupposedto.Ononeoccasion, the reverse camera refused to display anything for a couple of minutes when reverse was selected. This is simply not acceptable. Strike one.

As mentioned, the trip computer also playedup.Wewereunabletocyclethrough the various screens using the buttons provided on the steering wheel. Strike two.

A row of physical buttons below this screen provides shortcuts to various functions.

There are fan speed buttons, but not temperature adjustment. However, we discovered that pressing the heated seats button provides access to temperature controls.

All cars fitted with CarPlay and Android Auto need a home button because once you’re in Android world it is often difficult to find your way back, to do such things as setthecabintemperatureandflickthrough radio stations.

Also, you cannot access volume control unless you return to the home screen.

Summing up

Apart from one or two niggles, the Cannon Ultra is a compelling proposition. It must be the stuff of nightmares for the likes of Ford and Toyota who want big money for their vehicles.

People seem happy to stump up the price.However,it’snotacaseofifbutwhen the dual cab bubble will burst - wouldn’t you say?

Apart from one or two niggles, the Cannon Ultra is a compelling proposition. (Pictures: Supplied)

Grubbers farewell Funky

Ocean Grove defeated Newcomb by four points at Ray Menzies Oval on Saturday July 26 and sent Glenn ‘Funky’ Campbell into retirement with a win in his 100th game. Voice photographer Ivan Kemp was there at the finish.

Glenn Campbell is chaired from the ground.

Above: Glenn Campbell (right) chats with Lachie Joyce after the siren. Left: Charlie Every handballs.

Glenn Campbell finishes his career with a win as the siren sounds.

Richie Hollins takes a strong mark and kicks a goal to bring Newcomb within 10 points.

Above: Rory Phillips takes a strong mark. Below: Josh Saltalamacchia is well tackled. RIght: Glenn Campbell (right) celebrates with Charlie Every.

Caleb Morrissy handballs under pressure from Billy Hayward.

Left: Craig Goodger finds space to mark. Centre: Billy Hayward takes a timely mark. Right: Hugo Walsh runs the ball out of defence. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 492067

Tom Webster is tackled from all sides.

Grubbers win Under 15 battle

Voice photographer Ivan Kemp saw Ocean Grove defeat Drysdale at Drysdale on Saturday in the 15 & Under Division 1 clash. The girls are coached by A Grade stars Ashton O’Brien and Mia Fallon.

Lucy Veenvliet takes possession.

Hazel Haberfield gets her pass away.

Left to right: Tannah Hildebrand looks for a teammate; Heidi Armstrong finds some space; Holly Downs-Johnston (12 goals) stretches out; Stevie Long passes forward; Ruby Brooks leads up to take a pass.

Olivia Clark passes out of defence.

Milla Leslie looks for an option up the court.

Iluka O’Loughlin accepts the ball.

Charli Rew goes full stretch. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 493576

Jayla Restall passes forward.

Heads in command again

LOCAL TENNIS

Donna Schoenmaekers

It was round 13 in Junior Pennant and with two weeks to go, teams are getting closer each week, and the race for finals and positions are still up for grabs.

Barwon Heads held their position in third with an away win against Geelong Lawn.

The win closed the gap at the top of the table to four points.

Dex Taylor battled with Roy Savage in their first set before Taylor went ahead to take it 7-5.

From there Taylor took command, winning the second 6-1, putting the Heads on the board. Lawn’s Josh Severin-Harvey came out of the blocks strong winning his first set against Max Creati 6-0, but had a

tougher time in the second, getting up 6-4.

The match would be decided by the doubles and the Heads pairing proved

to be the better combination taking it 8-3, putting them ahead by a set and four games.

Wandana Heights White cracked their first win in three outings against Grovedale with the result important to both teams. Before the match the teams were tied on points in fourth and fifth with only percentage separating them. The Heights’ Hamish McNaughton showed good form in his singles against Lachie Smith winning 6-3, 6-0 while teammate Tom Smith had his work cut out for him against Oli Plunkett. Smith took the first set 6-2 before Plunkett fought backtotakethesecond6-4,withthematch eventually decided 10-4 in a super tiebreak to Smith.

In the doubles, Grovedale’s Jaylen Sach and Lachie Smith proved a great pairing,

Newbies Geelong West on top of the ladder

LOCAL TENNIS

Donna Schoenmaekers

The sun was shining and only a breath of wind for round 2 of Women’s Midweek and playersmadethemostofit,althoughSection 1 Barwon Heads will have to see what next week brings due to a bye.

Geelong West have re-entered the Tuesday competition, with a team transitioning from Highton after a hiatus, andarecurrentlysittingtopoftheladder-in part due to receiving a forfeit last week, but also a good win over Grovedale this week.

Angela Sherlock, Jacqui McGrath, Jodie McConnell and Annette Morgan showed that the break had not hindered them, winningthefirstfoursetsbeforeGrovedale’s Belinda Lee and Tracy Bromilow got the opposition on the board. Geelong West eventual winners five sets to one.

Ocean Grove had a loss to summer premiers Surfcoast Green last week but hit back against Surfcoast Black this week, with

a4-2winathome.BlackarenewtoSection1 after promotion due to their win in Summer Section 2.

The teams were super competitive with Judi Broad and Kate Lockhart having a slow start but eventual winners 7-5 for the home team while Amrita Smith and Olivia Cottrill proved too strong in the second set forSurfcoast,winning6-3.SmithandMaree Kullenberg battled with Broad and Alison Lugg before getting over the line 7-5 in a tiebreakwhileontheothercourt,OceanGrove kept things on the level with Lockhart and Mel Keating winning 6-3.

Whilethefinalresultwasfoursetstotwo, thefinaltwosetsweredecidedintie-breaks, both to the home team, with the practiced combinations of Lockhart and Lugg, and Keating and Broad doing enough to get over the line, and by just three games.

The final match of the day was a meeting from last season’s grand final with Moriac hosting Surfcoast Green. These teams have a long history of close matches and Tuesday

takingthewin8-1againstMcNaughtonand Tom Smith, but the win went to Wandana along with third spot with a three-point buffer to Grovedale.

It was first vs second in the third match of the morning with Hamlyn Park hosting ladder leaders Wandana Heights Blue. Denzel Ludowyk and Alric Wong kicked off the match with a win for Wandana in the doubles 8-3, but Axel Potter-Ayres and Xavier Willoughby weren’t going to let that distract them in the singles.

In matches that were hard fought and playedwithgreatsportsmanship,thematch took more than three hours. In the end, Potter-Ayres got over Ludowyk 7-5, 7-5, and Willoughby over Wong 6-4, 6-3. Hamlyn Park posted their first win over Wandana, and reduced Wandana’s lead to only two points with two matches left to play.

Round 24 fixture

announced

Geelong will play its final game of the AFL home and away season on SaturdayAugust23.

TheCatsarevyingforatopfourspot and will meet Richmond at the MCG withthegamestartingat4.15pm.

GoldCoastwillhaveashortfive-day break to prepare for the crucial clash with Essendon that could decide whether the expansion club reaches theAFLfinalsforthefirsttime.

The league on Wednesday confirmed the schedule of matches for round 24, with the Suns and Bombers to do battle in the last game ofthehome-and-awayseason.

Their fixture - which had to be rescheduled from opening round because of Tropical Cyclone AlfredwilltakeplaceatPeopleFirstStadium onWednesdayAugust27.

Round 24 opens six days earlier on August 21, when Essendon takes on oldrivalsCarltoninadeadrubber.

The Friday night offers a rare double-header, with flag hopefuls Collingwood taking on Melbourne, and Port Adelaide hosting Gold Coast in coach Ken Hinkley’s final game in charge.

Top-four contenders Geelong and Adelaide are both in action on Saturday, but the Sunday fixture loomsasthehighlightofround24.

was no exception.

ColleenBattyeandMeganWilliamsdrew first blood for Surfcoast winning 6-1 while Bridget Laird and Fiona Blood played a marathon against Kristie Walters and Jayne Steel with the former winners in a tie-break. Walters partnered Lyn Dillon to take the third set 6-2 for Surfcoast, but Blood and Charlotte Wilson levelled the match with a 6-4 win for Moriac.

With a six-game buffer, Surfcoast were hopeful going into the final two sets and the difference proved valuable. Blood won her third set for the day with Kerrie Fatone (6-3) leaving Moriac needing to win the final set 6-2 to take the win, but Walters and Battye had other ideas with the long-standing partners winning 6-2 to give Surfcoast victory by seven games with the sets tied at three-all.

With a few new faces and a new club in play, the tennis in this section will be entertaining and no doubt a few seemingly surprising results should be expected.

It starts with GWS hosting St Kilda at Engie Stadium, before the Western Bulldogs meet Fremantle at Marvel Stadium and Brisbane take on HawthornattheGabba.

The Suns-Bombers clash is then set to determine the exact finishing positionsofthetopeight.

“While it’s unconventional, we’re looking forward to rounding out what has already been a historic home-and-away season for the club here at People First Stadium on a Wednesday night,“ Gold Coast chief executiveMarkEvanssaid.

The Suns, who sit sixth with a 13-6 record, are aiming to play finals for the first time since joining the AFL in 2011. Their game in hand gives them an advantage over other teams currently locked in a tight battle for finalsspots.

Just two wins separate first-placed AdelaidefromGWSineighth,withthe Bulldogs one win further back with a strong percentage. Only nine teams arerealisticallystillinthefinalshunt.

Wandana Heights Blue and Hamlyn Park: Xavier Willoughby, Axel Potter-Ayres, Alric Wong and Denzil Ludowyk. (Supplied)

TW1 Geelong West and Grovedale: Jacqui McGrath, Jodie McConnell, Annette Morgan, Angela Sherlock (Geelong West), Erin Wilkinson, Belinda Lee, Lynette Marshall and Tracy Bromilow (Grovedale). (Supplied)

Minor-premiership clash

By Justin Flynn

It’s the game everyone has been waiting for as Ocean Grove and Geelong Amateur clash this weekend to see who finishes with the Bellarine Netball League minor premiership.

Grove is undefeated and Ammos have lost just once (to Ocean Grove), but with a superior percentage, can leapfrog into first on the table with a win this Saturday.

Ammos were impressive in defeating third-placed Torquay on Saturday with goaler Kim Hammond returning from injury for her first full game since early in the season.

While undefeated, Ocean Grove has been struggling to put away lower ranked teams for a few weeks now.

The Grubbers eventually overcame a dogged Drysdale on Saturday, 60 to 48. Holmes praised the performance of the seventh-placed Hawks.

“They’re a good team,” she said.

“They played well, and I felt like we were going through the motions a bit. They had nothing to lose, and they played well. I’m not going to take that away from them. They actually shot really well. ?

“I’m trying not to be disrespectful because Drysdale are a very good team. If you look on paper, Mia Fallon and Elise Ruggles, Olivia Young, Bree Cail, they’re all quality players.” ?

The Grubbers finish the home and away

season with two bumper clashes - against Geelong Amateur and Torquay.

“They’re huge,” she said.

“And then it’ll just be like playing all of those teams again come finals. If we don’t win, we lose first place.

“I think it’s important to keep first place and not for resting, not for any of those reasons, but just to ensure we can get that second chance. It’s important to have the second chance. Nobody’s going to not want that.

“If you win, it guarantees you the ticket to the big dance.”

For now, Holmes will concentrate only on this Saturday’s blockbuster.

“We’ll turn our attention to what we need to do at training, focussing on our plan of attack against Ammos,” she said.

“It’s a big game and it’s important for us to keep top spot. There’s some of that stuff that we’re still trying to work out. But I have the hope and the team has the belief that we can get it done.”

GEELONG Amateur kept its end of the bargain with a 10-goal win against Torquay with Kim Hammond and Kayla Donnellon starring in goal.

NEWCOMB guaranteed a finals spot with a hard-fought four-goal win against Barwon Heads. Carly Sanders took her season’s goal tally to 561 with another 38.

QUEENSCLIFF reclaimed third spot with a 51 to 37 win against Portarlington. Tess Orvis, Jessica Rankin and Ebony Rolph were largely responsible for the victory.

ANGLESEA handed Modewarre the woodenspoonwitha50to36winwithJess Croker and Ariana Luamanu each scoring 22 goals.

The run home poses a tough test for Ocean Grove

By Justin Flynn

Ocean Grove finishes its home and away season with two of the toughest assignments in the Bellarine Football League - first placed Geelong Amateur and second placed Torquay.

Coach Dave Farrell said rather than shy away from the task, the group would embrace it.

“The position we are in, it probably doesn’t make sense for us to look further than who we play a week ahead, but we spoke after the bye about the run home and to play the top three sides in the last three rounds is exciting,” he said.

“We were bold enough to plan for finals in 2025 and have fallen well short. We think we can draw great experience from playing these teams in the lead up to their

finalsandsqueezeeverybitofopportunity out of our season still.”

Ocean Grove lost to fourth-placed Drysdale by 45 points on Saturday, but managed 20 scoring shots.

“Therewerepatchesofthisweek’sgame thatwereasgoodaswehaveseenallyear,” Farrell said.

“Our pressure was fantastic and we generated some really positive ball movement.Alargenumberofinjuriesand unavailability of players week to week has been a bit unsettling, you can see there isn’t the same familiarity in our side that a team like Drysdale has from playing together.

“The players took a whole heap of responsibilityonground,wesetupwelloff the ball consistently, they were fatigued after losing Nick and Benny in the first

quarter, but kept working really hard. To not go into their shells or retreat late was awesome to watch.”

Meanwhile Ocean Grove sent Glenn ‘Funky’ Campbell off as a winner against Newcomb in round 15.

It was Campbell’s 100th and final game for the Grubbers and it was a thriller with the home side getting the win by just four points.

“It was great to get the result against Newcomb we did, a win at home and in Funky’s final game all fit really well,” Farrell said.

TORQUAY reminded everyone that it is a genuine premiership contender with a 49-point win against top side Geelong Amateur. Tynan Smith added another string to the Tigers’ attack with seven goals.

ANGLESEA just needs to keep winning to assure itself of a finals spot and it did just that with a 51-point win against Modewarre. Dale Kerr was best for the Roos while Connor Joseph booted four for the Warriors.

BARWON Heads also needs to keep winning and hope that Anglesea slips up along the way to sneak into fifth place. The Seagulls eventually shrugged off a persistent Newcomb to win by 39 points with skipper Lachie Wilson in fine form.

QUEENSCLIFF holds onto third spotand a double chance by about three percent from Drysdale. The Coutas were only one point ahead at the last break, but a six-goal final term gave them a 32-point triumph with Jayden McHenry kicking seven goals.

Glenn Campbell with his wife Caitlin and children Louis and Lyla after hanging up the boots in his 100th and final game, and Campbell is chaired from the ground. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 492067

Left: Alanna Farrow runs onto a loose ball in Ocean Grove’s 15 & Under Division 1 win against Drysdale on Saturday. Right: Tamika Wall top scored for Ocean Grove in the 15 & Under Division 1 game with 25 goals. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 493576