FREEDIGITALEDITION
Nice day for fishing
It was a great day for some fishing at Geelong waterfront on Tuesday 24 March for Kyle Stevenson and his children Elsie and Spencer (pictured). Kyle already had one snapper in the bag and was hoping for more.
We have had some wonderful autumnal weather this week with temperatures in the mid-20s.
But it was about to turn nasty as the Independent went to print with the first real cold front of the season set to sweep through early yesterday afternoon, bringing rain.
Temps will drop to a chilly 17 degrees today (Friday 27 March) and hover around 20 degrees for the weekend. It’s set to brighten up on Monday with a forecast maximum of 24 and then Tuesday and Wednesday will remind us that the warm weather hasn’t left us with Tuesday and Wednesday expected to get to 30 degrees.
For more pictures at the waterfront on Tuesday, see page 23.
Priorities on track
By Matt Hewson
Geelong council’s overarching plan for the next four years is progressing according to plan, but councillors have bemoaned the stategovernment’slackofinvestmentinthe city’sinfrastructure.
Councillor Anthony Aitken presented the first six-monthly update on the progress of the four-year plan at the City Hall meeting onTuesdaynight.
The plan, which set the City’s strategic direction until 2029, outlines 31 major initiatives across six strategic objectives: coreandcriticalinfrastructure;healthyand caringcommunity’economicdevelopment; heritage and culture; environment and circular economy; and governance and integrity.
CrAitkenthatwhilethereport“saysmost
items are on track” it was “very hard to be able to make that assessment” given the “brieftimeperiod”.
“We’re six months into a four-year plan; we’vegotalongwaytogo,”hesaid.
“Whatisimportantisthere’soneitemthat isn’t on track, but that actually because of councillorintervention.
“And that is one of the major initiatives, to upgrade the existing resource recovery facilities,prepareforthenewfoodorganics, green organics and the glass kerbside collectionservices.”
In December last year council unanimously opposed the state government’s mandated rollout of new purple glass bins as too costly and unsustainable, advocating instead for the expansionofthepopularContainerDeposit Scheme.
“That intervention by the council has stoppedanddelayedthisparticularproject, butitwasanimportantdecisionthatcouncil made,”CrAitkensaid.
Councillor Andrew Katos highlighted the need for the release of more land for developmentinthenorthofGeelong.
“Geelong is running out of land, it’s plain andsimple,”hesaid.
“Armstrong Creek is almost gone, land-wise, and the growth fronts out in the north are well and truly stalled. Whether it be from state government or from us, we needtoopenupmorelandinthenorth.
“It’s about affordability; we want young peopleto beableto affordtheirownhomes. Ifthepriceoflandkeepsescalatingbecause of lack of supply, then it’s just making building your first home out of the reach of youngpeople.”
CrKatosalsousedthediscussiontoattack the state government for its lack of action on infrastructure investment, particularly aroundtransportanddrainage..
“The integrated transport plan, so much of that is sitting with the state government,” hesaid.
“The trucks in Ryrie Street, how long has that been an issue? Former mayor John Mitchell got elected on that issue 20 years ago and it still hasn’t been resolved…the Bellarinelinkhasn’tprogressedatall.
“And then there’s our public transport network, which in my book is a shambles in Geelong.Itneedsmajorinvestment.
“We need some major decisions and investment from the state government and hopefully, being an election year, we’ll see either investment from the state (government)orfromtheopposition.”
Name policy endorsed
By Matt Hewson
Two Geelong councillors have opposed a policy giving First Nations people, women and migrants more opportunities to have significant places named after them.
The draft place-naming policy, presented at Tuesday’s council meeting, seeks to address the underrepresentation of diverse populations in place names by prioritising their selection in the short term.
“By increasing the visibility of women, First Nations people and underrepresented cultural groups, the proposed policy would
be a first step in the City addressing some of the historical imbalances and support greater cultural recognition,” Cr Cadwell said.
Councillors Andrew Katos and Eddy Kontelj, the only two councillors to vote againstthepolicy,claimeditwouldexclude white men and veterans.
“If there’s a facility that is very deserving to be named after a particular person…but becauseofthispolicythey’reexcluded,that to me would be a travesty,” Cr Katos said.
“If that person happens to be a white male of Anglo heritage, but they’ve done so
muchinthecommunity,butallofasudden their name’s thrown to the side, I wouldn’t like to see that happen.”
CouncillorEmmaSinclairsaidthepolicy would not exclude anyone and was only intended as a temporary measure.
“We’ve got opportunities…to create equalitythroughusingthispolicy,andifwe get it right, we cancel the policy,” she said.
“We want it to be a short-term policy that corrects an imbalance.”
Community consultation of the policy is open until 15 April.
New safe space for Surf Coast residents
By Jena Carr
The Surf Coast Safe Space will open to the community on Saturday to support people with emotional and suicidal distress through social connections.
The community-led initiative will offer a welcoming and non-judgmental environment for people seeking connection, understanding or support in Torquay.
Volunteer Kim Edgar said people would be offered a one-on-one chat when they come into the space, but that people could just come along and spend some time with others.
“If people do want to talk about some stuff that’s going on, that’s great. Otherwise, if they want to come in and have a cuppa and sit, that’s great as well,” she said.
“The space is welcome to everybody to comeinandhaveachatbecauseweknow that social connection is an important part of social and emotional well-being.
“Sometimes people might be reluctant to come in, or they might not be sure what the service is about, so we look forward to seeing a full range of how people might engage with the space.”
Ms Edgar said the safe space was a
Lara Sporting Club slapped with fine
Lara Sporting Club has been fined after its pokermachineswerefoundtobeinuseoutside of permitted hours.
Victorian Gambling and Casino Control Commission (VGCCC) issued the $15000 fineaftergamingactivitywasdetectedatthe venue outside of the liquor licence hours on 18 May 2025.
VGCCC chief executive Suzy Neilan said multiple poker machines were found to be in use after hours on the date, with turnover exceeding $10,000.
“These are measures designed to safeguard patrons and minimise gambling harm,” she said.
“It’simperativethatvenuesabidebytheir licenced hours and demonstrate responsibility in their care for patrons.”
Ms Neilan said this was the second time the venue had been fined for trading our breaches,witha$10,000fineissuedlastyear for breaches on Good Friday.
“As this is not the first time the venue has breached its permitted hours, it is appropriate to impose a penalty that reflects the seriousness of the conduct and the need for both specific and general deterrence,” she said.
Venues are required to operate gaming rooms within specific hours, including adherence to a mandatory shutdown period between4amand10ameachday,according to the Gambling Regulation Act (2003).
Lara Sporting Club’s permitted hours are anytime from Monday to Saturday, and on Sundays between midnight and 1am, and between 10am and 11.30pm, excluding Anzac Day.
Good Friday and Anzac Day are restricted trading days, with 11 venues fined a total of $180,000 for trading hour breaches related to these dates last year.
Teachers strike for better conditions
Many public schools across Greater Geelong were closed or were operating on a reduced capacity on Tuesday 24 March as more than 30,000 teachers took strike action.
More than 500 schools across the state were affected with teachers demanding better pay and improved work conditions.
Among the local schools closed was Oberon High School.
“Given the number of staff involved, Oberon High School will not be running formal classes from Years 7 to 12,” the school said.
“If families require supervision, for parents who are essential service workers, then we can provide a basic level of supervision for students wishing to undertake study.”
Students in Years 8 to 12 at Belmont High and Newcomb Secondary College were told to stay home.
non-clinical and non-crisis environment supported by volunteers, known as Peer Care Companions, with lived experience of mental health, suicide or bereavement.
“It’s a space run by the community for the community...and it’s really about providing that social connection within the community,” she said.
Surf Coast Community-led Safe Space willopenatTorquayCommunityHouseat 2pm on Saturday 28 March, with drop-in style sessions held from 1.30pm on Saturdays following the launch.
“Due to the reduced number of teachers on site, it is likely that the school will operate a modified program for students in attendance, rather than a normal teaching and learning program,” Newcomb Secondary College said.
Teachers ignored a plea from premier Jacinta Allan not to strike with teachers set to rally outside Parliament House at about noon to protest.
The Australian Education Union hasn’t ruled out further strike action. The union is asking for a 35 percent pay increase while the state government has offered 18 percent, which was rejected.
Surf Coast Safe Space’s Peer Care Companions Kim Edgar, left, Nikki Watson and Suzi May. (Ivan Kemp) 542552_03
Uncertainty clouds airshow
The Avalon International Airshow has been locked in for February next year, but its longertermfutureremainsunclear.
The largest aviation, aerospace and defence exhibition in the Southern Hemisphere will return from 23 to 28 February, 2027, after the 2025 airshow delivered an estimated $31.85 million in direct economic benefits for the Geelong region.
And while Victoria Tourism Industry Council (VTIC) welcomed the announcement, it had hoped for a longer-term commitment extending across thenextdecade.
VTIC chief executive Lisa Patroni said
the 2027 confirmation provides welcome certaintyfortheimmediatefuturebutnoted the airshow’s significant economic value to Victoria warranted a stronger long-term commitmentfromthestategovernment.
“This event is an important part of Victoria’s major events portfolio and, importantly, the largest major event held in regionalVictoria,”shesaid.“Withtherecent loss of the MotoGP in Phillip Island, we simply cannot afford to risk losing another cornerstoneregionalevent.”
The biennial airshow has been hosted at Avalon Airport since 1992. The 2025 event attracted more than 200,000 attendees acrosssixdays,combiningahighlyregarded
international trade program with a popular publicaviationshowcase.
“There is real potential to diversify the airshow’s offering, including exploring opportunities along the Geelong waterfront,”MsPatronisaid.
“With the opening of the Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre this year, we now have outstanding new facilities that could support elements of the trade program and enhance the visitor experience.”
Member for Geelong Christine Couzens andMemberforLaraEllaGeorgewelcomed the announcement of the airshow’s return toAvalonin2027.
Easter activities hop in early at Norlane
By Jena Carr
Geelong families and community members of all abilities can participate in an entertaining and hands-on day during the Easter Family Fun Festival.
Gateways Support Services will host the free event at the Norlane Aquatic and Recreational Centre from 10am to 3pm on Sunday 29 March.
Chief executive Rohan Braddy said the event had been designed right from the beginning to be fully inclusive and supportiveofpeoplelivingwithdisabilities,
along with their loved ones and carers.
“It is so much fun to see kids having a wonderful time with their families, while breaking down the stigma around people livingwithadisabilitywithinacommunity environment,” he said. “This year, we’ve gotanevengreateremphasisoncarersand making sure that they’re being supported with everything they need to get through the day with the work that they do.
“People living with disabilities are just people at the end of the day, and they have the same kind of fun that other kids do, so it’sreallyheartwarmingtoseeconnections
happen among kids.”
Gateways chief customer officer Jandi Watts said the event would also feature a quiet hour between 10am and 11am to provide a relaxed and low-sensory experience.
“It’s a great opportunity for people to connectandtakesometimeforthemselves and enjoy an inclusive event that anyone can attend,” she said.
The event is free, but registration is essential. Visit trybooking.com/events/ landing/1542327 for more information and to reserve a spot.
“This event puts Geelong on the global stage and highlights the important role our region plays in Victoria’s advanced manufacturing and defence industries,” Ms Couzenssaid.
“The Avalon Airshow brings thousands of visitors to our region, supporting local jobs and businesses and we’re so proud to welcome the Airshow back to Avalon for 2027,”MsGeorgesaid.
The 2027 airshow will again feature a dedicated Careers Day, which drew more than 5000 students in 2025, helping to inspire young people and educators about careers in aviation, aerospace and STEM fields.
Stepping up for mental health
By Jena Carr
People across Greater Geelong are taking the next step in mental health awareness during the national Walk toWorkDay.
The initiative encouraged employers and their staff to walk to work on Friday 27 March, with this year’s event supporting the Black Dog Institute.
Pedestrian Council of Australia chief executive Harold Scruby said people were likely to be more productive if they walked before or duringwork.
“The problem is we are rapidly becoming one of the most obese nations in the world and a lot of that has to do with car dependency and behaviour involving limited physical activity,”hesaid.
“We’vealsonowgotafuelcrisisand realised how tethered we are to the motor vehicle...so, if you can build walking into your daily routine, you’ll bemuchfitter,happier,andhealthier.
“Whenyou’reinplaceslikeGeelong, where it’s not as easy to walk to work, soyouhavetodrive,youcanleavethe caragooddistanceawayandwalkthe restofthewaytowork.”
Black Dog Institute fundraising director Laura Edwards said research conducted by the institute found that walking an hour a day could reduce the risk of major depression by up to 26percent.
“Providing a mentally healthy workplace is shown to provide organisations with a happier workplace and significant savings to theirbottomline,”shesaid.
“Exercise promotes positive changes in the brain - including neuralgrowth,reducedinflammation andnewactivitypatternsthatsupport calm,focusandoverallwellbeing.”
Youth leaders address council, outline priorities for their 2026 term
By Matt Hewson
Geelong’s new crop of young leaders presented their first report at City Hall this week.
Inducted in January and taking part in their first meeting in February, Geelong council’s 2026 youth council announced their four priority areas for this year through junior mayor Vignesh Ram at Tuesday night’s council meeting. To guide the work throughout 2026 the
youth council will focus on youth health and wellbeing, protecting native land, skies and waterways, inclusivity and safety in the community and economic equality and opportunity.
Junior mayor Ram said he and the youth council group were “grateful for the trust placed in us” and would “lead with integrity and respect to ensure that every member’s voice is valued”.
“We understand that across Geelong young people are navigating increasing
mental health challenges,” he said.
“They are deeply concerned about climateandenvironmentalsustainability. They want communities that are safe, inclusive and equitable across all suburbs.
“And they are, perhaps surprisingly, increasingly aware of the financial pressures shaping their futures and impacting their families. These insights will guide our work and reinforce the importance of our role this year.”
Councillor Anthony Aitken praised the youth council for its list of agreed values.
“It may come as a shock to some of the councillors here, but number two (on the list) is to ensure everyone gets to contribute and speak,” he said.
“I encourage youth council members, keep that value for the rest of your life. Don’t use governance or other reasons not to listen to people…if you can keep that value it will influence better decision-making.”
Gateways chief customer officer Jandi Watts and Sammie Halse are getting ready for the Easter Family Fun Festival. (Ivan Kemp) 542206_04
City focuses on India
Geelong council has announced it will adopt a “targeted approach” to the city’s partnership with India.
After the three-day Geelong-India Collaborative Futures forum last week, the City of Greater Geelong has identified four focus sectors: advanced manufacturing andinnovation;filmandcreativity;tourism and sport; and food and agribusiness.
Theforum,runningfrom16to18March, played host to more than 100 guests and heard from more than 40 speakers, with representatives from Canberra attending and people joining online from India.
Following a roundtable discussion
joined by more than 20 industry and community leaders, the City also made a commitment to strengthen its relationship with India through “genuine connection and understanding”
The City also proposed a roadshow to India and the establishment of dedicated networks and monthly sessions for each of the four focus sectors.
The forum follows on from the first Geelong-India business roundtable in June last year and a memorandum of understanding between the City and the Australia India Business Council signed in August.
Mayor Stretch Kontelj said as a “rapidly growing city with strong projected population growth” , Geelong could be “the masters of our own destiny” .
“We are well positioned as a selfsustaining economic centre, with land available for considered residential and industrial development, and we are incredibly fortunate in that regard,” he said.
“A collaboration with India will bring opportunities we are only just beginning to understand, but we must be focused; we can’t do everything, so we need to be strategicaboutwhereweinvestourenergy.”
Revving up the engines for big All Ford day
Thousands will gather this weekend to celebrate the car brand that helped shape Geelong.
AllFordDayreturnsonSunday29March at Eastern Park for the 35th edition of the annual event, with more vehicles, more activities and more attendees than ever before.
Last year more than 1600 vehicle owners gathered with their beloved Fords, prompting organisers to assess how to provide the possible experience for community members.
This year All Ford Day will feature a new layout for partnering vendors and trade
partners, live entertainment, amusement rides and other activities.
But at the heart of the event remains the vehicles themselves. From classic cars from bygone eras to today’s high-performance machines, Ford models of all kinds will be onshowinatributetomotoringexcellence.
The event also marks 101 years of Ford in Australia; the company established its Geelong assembly plant in 1925, changing the course of the city’s development.
EventdirectorNickHeathsaidorganisers expected this year’s All Ford Day to break records, with more Ford vehicles and more attendees than ever before.
“Every year we’re blown away by the tremendous public response to All Ford Day. This year will be the 35th anniversary of the event, so we want to do something that will really bring everyone together,” he said.
“This year brings a revised site layout with an emphasis on good food and family entertainment.”
“Ascustodiansforthisgenerationalevent we take a great deal of care to ensure that it honours the history and culture of Ford in Geelong.”
Tickets are available at allfordday.org.au or at the gate.
South West Apprentice of the Year award winners Beau Adams, Htoo Sey and Chester Willder. (Supplied)
Local apprentices receive awards
The region’s best apprentices have been celebrated for their outstanding work and dedication at the Master Builders Victorian Regional ApprenticeoftheYearAwards.
Torquay’s Beau Adams and Corio’s Htoo Sey received major awards at GMHBAStadiumonThursdaynight.
Mr Adams, trained at the Building Skills Centre in Breakwater and currently employed by Torquay’s NSL Builders, was named the South West’s ApprenticeofYear.
He was praised by judges for his driveandpassionforlearning.
“Beau, entering the industry later in life, has built strong foundations in both on-site carpentry and preconstruction processes, rapidly developing skills in estimating, client management and high-performance buildingmethods,”thejudgessaid.
“Hisclear visionto become a registered builder, coupled with his commitment to mentoring younger team members and contributing to businessgrowth,setshimapart.”
Mr Sey, who works for Jacaranda Industries and was nominated by The Gordon TAFE, received the highly regarded Chairperson’s Award for his commitment to learning, work ethic and determination to succeed since arrivinginAustralia.
“Learning English while navigating a completely new work environment, he has persisted with quiet strength,patienceand an unwavering commitment to improve, the judges said. “Htoo embraces every challenge,whether mastering new tools, supporting his coworkers or finding ways to communicate clearly on the job. His willingness to ask questions, help others and keep moving forward, even when the path is harder for him, reflects remarkable resilience.”
The winners will go in the running for the Victorian State Apprentice of theYearAwardsinMay.
Nicholas Ballis with his FG XR6 Turbo, Mandy and Ron Debeen with their 1966 Mustang GT Coupe and 1956 F100 and Kevin James with his 1986 XF Falcon. (Ivan Kemp) 542669_02
Changes coming to Torquay
By Jena Carr
A section of Kuwarrk Lane in Torquay could be discontinued to accommodate parking and road plans for the Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre (WBARC).
The Surf Coast Shire Council unanimously endorsed the recommendation during its meeting on 24 March to potentially discontinue 12.5 square-metres of the lane, with community engagement on the proposal to commence soon.
Councillor Liz Pattison said the area needed to be discontinued to accommodate WBARC’s detailed design plans.
“This is a straightforward proposal to discontinue a section of unused road reserve that’s no longer required,” she said.
“Wadawurrung Way will now connect Kuwarrk Lane with the Surf Coast Highway, and the 12.5 square metres section of road will no longer be required for road infrastructure.
“It enables better land use outcomes subject to the standard statutory process...and the proposal will not change vehicle or pedestrian access, and the portion of land will remain in council ownership.”
New splash park designs for WBARC were also released on 25 March, featuring two
slides, water fountains, jets, and accessible play zones for children of all abilities.
Member for Western Victoria Gayle Tierney said WBARC would be “one of the best aquatic and recreation centres” in regional Victoria.
“This is a fantastic milestone for Torquay, the wider Surf Coast, and for families right across our growing region,” she said.
“(It will) make it easier for families to stay active, while spending time together and enjoying a great local space designed for everyone.”
Surf Coast Shire mayor Libby Stapleton said the splash park was going to be a big
drawcard for the centre.
“Parents of young children are particularly excited, knowing their kids will be able to enjoy water play no matter the weather outside,” she said.
“Construction is powering ahead, and I can’t wait to see people streaming in around this time next year, so we’re extremely grateful for the funding we’ve received to make this all possible.”
The splash park’s tile and equipment colours were chosen in consultation with Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, which represents shades of water, beaches, cliff faces, and vegetation.
Meli says new bill will ‘fundamentally redefine’ foster care
By Matt Hewson
New reforms will “fundamentally redefine” the state government’s responsibilities to children in foster care, according to one of the Geelong region’s major foster care providers.
Local community services organisation Meli has welcomed the Children, Youth and Families Amendment (Supporting Stable and Strong Families) Bill 2025, passed by Victorian Parliament earlier this month.
The amendment establishes a shared responsibilities model for the first time in Australia, ensuring extended support for young people formerly in foster care.
Geelong’s Jesse Miller, 20, knows better than most the potential implications
of the reforms.
About to step into a new role as a frontline emergency services worker, Mr Miller entered foster care as a toddler, finding a permanent, loving foster home through Meli and other organisations.
“This is a phenomenal change that could significantly transform the lives of young people navigating the transition to independence,” Mr Miller said.
“I was lucky to have a foster mum who stayed in my corner, but many young people don’t have that to fall back on.
“I’ve seen others leave care and end up with nowhere to go - some turning to drugs, unsafe situations or anything they can to survive. No one should be left to navigate those years alone.”
Jesse Miller is about to step into a new role as a frontline emergency services worker. (Ivan Kemp)
As a Youth Justice worker, you’ll have a secure job working with young people in custody. The role includes paid training and you’ll be part of a supportive team.
CEO gets five more years
Robyn Seymour will continue to lead Surf Coast Shire Council through the chief executiveroleforanotherfiveyears.
Ms Seymour was re-appointed to the role following the previous five years during a closed section of council’s 24 March meeting.
“It’s a privilege to be part of this organisation and to work with people who have so much passion and commitment,” MsSeymoursaid.
“A key motivation for me in joining Surf Coast Shire was my passion for working closely with communities and supporting thedeliveryofwhatmattersmosttothem.
“I’m looking forward to continuing to work alongside our Council, staff and the community to provide quality services and achieve the aims of our four-year Council Plan.”
Mayor Libby Stapleton said Ms Seymour helped make significant progress in key areas like addressing the housing challenge and protecting the shire’s natural environment.
“I look forward to working alongside her overthecomingyears,”shesaid.
“Robyn sets high standards for herself and for the organisation, ensuring we focus ondeliveringwhatmatters.
“What stands out most is Robyn’s commitmenttoinstillingexcellentsystems, culture, transparency, and governance to help her staff and council serve our communityeffectively.”
Ms Seymour has strengthened the organisation’s strategic focus and overseen the planning and delivery of several long-awaited community facilities during her first five years as council’s chief executive.
Shehasalsohelpedsupportgrowthacross the shire while ensuring placemaking was strategicanddesignedtoprotecttheunique characteroftownsandcommunities.
All abilities on show at GMHBA Stadium
This April GMHBA Stadium plays host to an event proving football is more than just a sport.
All-abilities football teams from Bell Park, Geelong West Giants, Newcomb, Newtown and St Joseph’s will kick off their 2026 season at Victoria’s premier regional football venue on Saturday 11 April.
PresentedinpartnershipbyAFLBarwon and Kardinia Park Stadium Trust (KPST), the event will include four games over an afternoon focusing on fun, safety and inclusivity.
AFL Barwon’s All-Abilities Football Netball League focuses on providing equal opportunities for individuals with varying
abilities to participate in a competition designed to develop their skills, be part of a supportive team and enjoy playing the game.
AFL Barwon commercial partnerships and communication manager Sean Atkinson said being able to play round one of the competition at GMHBA Stadium was a “really special moment for everyone involved”.
“We’re incredibly grateful to the naming rightspartnerKardiniaParkStadiumTrust for their support in making this possible,” he said.
“It provides an outstanding opportunity forourparticipantstoexperiencethegame
on a premier stage, and it’s something the players consistently describe as a highlight of their season.”
ChiefexecutiveGerardGriffinsaidKPST, amajorpartneroftheAll-AbilitiesFootball Netball League since 2024, was excited to welcome the All-Abilities football onto GMHBA Stadium again in 2026.
“Providing opportunities for our community to be out on the field is a key commitment of our diversity, equity and inclusion action plan, and partnering with AFL Barwon on this initiative is a highlight on our calendar,” he said.
Gates open on Saturday 11 April at 2.30pm. Entry is free.
By Jena Carr
Many people will come together to raise awareness and reduce stigma around mental health during a two-day walk across Inverleigh and Winchelsea.
Conquer the Corrugations is a free family-friendly event that aims to support people affected and the loved ones lost following struggles with mentalhealth.
Local organiser Robert (Charlie) Earl said the walk would help inspire conversations among participants aroundmentalhealth.
“As you walk along, you actually change the people you walk with, so the conversation starts covering a lot ofpeople,”hesaid.
“The other most important thing is to listen, because sometimes you can pickupthingsjustbylisteningtowhat someone else says, and it is all about theconversation.”
The 18-kilometre walk will take participants from Inverleigh’s Yerram Yaluk Bun Park to Winchelsea’s Barwon Hotel on Saturday 28 March, before participants walk back to Inverleighthenextday.
Mr Earl said participants did not have to walk the whole way and could jump on the accompanying support busifneeded.
“Itopensupthefactthatthere’salot moregoingoninyourlifethanpeople may know about,” he said. “There are a lot of people going through things that you may not know about, so it just opens your mind up and gives you a broader look at what could be happeninginsomeoneelse’slife.”
Registrations for the walk are required, so visit the Conquer the Corrugations Victoria Facebook page toreserveaspot.
Sing out and stand up against family violence at Wirrng Wirrng
By Matt Hewson
Sometimes small, positive changes can have life-changing results. That’s the ethos behind a pop-up performance next week in Queenscliff aiming to raise awareness of familyviolence.
Organised by the Bellarine-based Shedding the Blues music and wellbeing collective, Sing Out, Stand Up Against Family Violence will feature some of the region’s best-loved musicians, including Sarah Carroll, Andrea Robertson, Rob Grundel and Tess Duddy, leading a choir of 30people.
The performance will include songs themed around peace and love, such as Ben E King’s Stand By Me and All You Need is Love by The Beatles, and people’s experience of family violence, including Lucinda William’s Change the Locks and ArchieRoach’sWalkingintoDoors.
Shedding the Blues chairperson Des Gorman said the collective’s core mission was inclusion, support and well-being throughmusic.
“We thought one way to build awareness (of family violence) was to run workshops, butweprobablyonlygotadozencommunity members coming along,” he said. “So then
we thought, well, our best voice is using music; it resonates with people, reaches theiremotions,theirthoughts,theirsouls.
“We’re not there to bash people over the head with it, but family violence is happening and if you just stand by you’re condoningit.
“Wewantpeopletogoawaythinking‘that was fun’, but it’s a pretty strong message. If we can provide people with just a slight change to their mindset, then that can be builtonovertime.”
Sing Out, Stand Up Against Family Violence is at Wirrng Wirrng (Queenscliff Hub)at11.30amonSaturday11April.
Robyn Seymour has been re-appointed as Surf Coast Shire Council’s CEO for another five years. (Ivan Kemp) 447030_01
The All-Abilities Football League kicks off at GMHBA Stadium on 11 April. (Supplied)
The Shedding the Blues collective will use their voices to stand up to family violence. (Ivan Kemp) 542807_03
Local juniors on fire
By Matt Hewson
Local junior firefighters exceeded their ownexpectationstonabapodiumfinishat the state championships in Stawell.
Grovedale Fire Brigade juniors won the Under 14 section and performed strongly inUnder17stotakethirdplaceinthegrand aggregate of the 2026 CFA/VFBV State Firefighter Championships last weekend.
The Grovedale squad finished just three points behind reigning champions Melton with 40 points overall, who were themselves blown away by a dominant
Echuca team that scored 83 points.
Junior leader and running team coach Kit Moores said it was a great result for Grovedale’s firefighters of the future.
“We went there probably expecting some success,” he said.
“But I don’t think anyone was expecting to walk away with the Under 14s and third in the grand aggregate. So yeah, we’re very happy with the result.”
Mr Moores praised the juniors for the year-roundefforttheyhadputintoprepare for the competition.
“During the summer months, once we
hit competition phase we’re training two nights a week, generally for an hour to two hoursoneach oneofthosenights,” hesaid.
“They’re all very dedicated in what they do and they show a lot of spirit and they showed a lot of composure in the way that they regarded on the weekend.
“It was a well-deserved result. Our kids have worked really hard to get where they are and it was great to see them getting such a positive result.
“They’re far over the moon and I’m sure that will motivate them to continue doing what they’ve been doing.”
Fundraiser for Lara family
The Lara community can enjoy a day full of fun and entertainment while supporting a family of two young girls battlingleukaemia.
All proceeds from raffle tickets and stallholder fees at Lara’s Big Family Fun Day Out will be donated to the Perez family to help ease the financial pressures of ongoing cancer treatments.
The Lara family’s four-year-old daughter Alyssa was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2024, with her older sister Emmy, 6, then diagnosed with the same type of cancer in January thisyear.
The Perez Family Fundraiser Committee will host the family fun day fromnoononSunday29Marchat theLaraSportingClubOval.
“We are so lucky to have the community we have in Lara, and we really want to show the family that people do care,” committee member Natasha Boreland said. “This is a pretty big fight to be part of, and we just wanted to show them that they do havesupportwiththecommunity.
“We’ve got free rides, sideshow games and the CFA will bring their truck, as well as live music and people dressing up for character appearances. I’m looking forward to seeing people come together while knowing that all the proceeds will go toensuringthisfamilycankeeparoof overtheirhead.”
Support the family at gofundme. com/f/emmy-and-lissy-in-their-fightagainst-leukaemia
The groove is in the heart
Music is all about connection for revered Bellarine-based singer-songwriter, musician and performer Sarah Carroll.
AluminaryoftheAustralianrootsmusic scene for more than 30 years, Carroll has embraced musical collaboration big name artists and grass-roots community groups alike.
But music really comes alive, she said, among a group of people who are completely there for each other.
“I hear stories about other bands where the relationships are maybe not so solid or not as important, but for me, having great relationships with my bandmates is crucial,” she said.
“I’m fortunate in that the friends that
I have in the bands I play are all really capable, amazing musicians who also happen to be great people.
“People who I’m happy to tour with and record with, be on stage with and never worry about anything going wrong or anything like that because we’re all there for each other. I think that the trust that is engendered by those good relationships is really important.”
Herdance-basedtrioTheSettledownsis a prime example.
Comprised of guitarist/singers Narelle Jolley and Noah Grosz with Carroll on drums,TheSettledownshavebeenfriends since Jolley and Grosz’s wife joined the Tides of Welcome Choir - which Carroll established - in Queenscliff over two decades ago.
“Because we’re such great friends and
we’re determined to create a safe space to learn and explore in, there’s no such thing as a bad idea or a wrong move,” she said.
“It’s all up for consideration and everything that anybody suggests is a good idea, and we’ll try all of it.”
The band play a catalogue of their own original music, incorporating their diverse musical loves - country, reggae, rockabilly, punk and surf music, to name a few - including Carroll’s latest single Get Low, which shot to number five on the Aus Indies single charts last week.
The Settledowns are at the Door Gallery Cafe on Saturday 28 March. Visit trybooking.com/events/landing/1532139
Franklin’s Chopper impersonation is entertainment gold
Impersonations are stock in trade for many comedians; caricaturing a celebrity, politicianorpublicfigureisatime-honoured traditioninthecomedyworld.
But few have been as successful for as long as Heath Franklin’s characterisation of infamous Australian criminal Mark ‘Chopper’Read.
For more than two decades Franklin has entertainedaudiencesintheroleofChopper, first at a university revue, then soon after at the 2004 Melbourne International Comedy Festival(MICF).
The rest, as they say, is history. Franklin’s MCIF debut drew the attention of Channel
10, and he soon found himself part of the comedic crew on The Ronnie Johns Half Hourtelevisionseries.
Sincethen,hehasperformedregularlylive and on television - and garnered millions of views online - as Chopper, becoming as present in the national consciousness as Readhimself.
His latest show, Gold, collects Franklin’s best-known bits, including the Weather sketch and Shopping at Bunnings, in an all killer, no filler celebration of two decades of Chopper.
“I feel pretty grateful that this ridiculous enterpriseIembarkedonallthoseyearsago
isstilloutthereandpeoplearestillenjoying it,”hesaid.
“I did shows as myself for a few years, and I realised I’d started taking for granted the characterofChopper.
“There’s a sort of built-in cynicism in Chopper that can look at the things the humanpopulationdoes,digestthosethings and spit them out again and make them seemasridiculousastheyare.
“And thankfully, mankind is a sort of never-ending conveyor belt of moronic ideasandnonsense.”
Heath Franklin’s Chopper - Gold is at GeelongArtsCentreonThursday9April.
ENTERTAINMENT WITH MATT HEWSON
Heath Franklin brings 20 years of Chopper to Geelong this April. (Supplied)
The Settledowns: Narelle Jolley, Noah Grosz and Sarah Carroll. (Supplied)
Left: Grovedale Fire Brigade juniors. Right: Grovedale CFA’s Tom Warita helps his team to a podium place at the Junior Firefighter State Championships.
More seats for sports
Wurdi Baierr Stadium’s tiered seating was full of spectators for the first time to watch the Surf Coast Chargers’ season-opening match.
The Torquay stadium’s retractable stand features more than 550 seats, with spectators making use of the upgraded facilityon21March.
Federal Member for Corangamite Libby Coker said the stand helped create a good environment and boosted the stadium’s atmosphereforarangeofgames.
“It’s a great outcome that will support largerevents,includingshows,conferences,
schoolandcommunityevents,andsomuch more,”shesaid.
“Grass roots sport is at the heart of our communities, as it’s where our children form friendships and learn life lessons that shapewhotheyare.
“This new seating is such a win for communities on the Surf Coast, as...the facilitiesdeliverthebestexperiencepossible forlocalplayersandtheirfamilies.”
Surfcoast Basketball Association advocated for the seating project and secured $500,000 through the federal government’s Investing in the Community
program.
Surf Coast Shire mayor Libby Stapleton saidshethankedthefederalgovernmentfor itssupportwiththeproject.
“WecongratulatetheSurfcoastBasketball Association for its vision and advocacy for the retractable seats,” she said. “This installation is a significant investment for the stadium and our community, so...big gamesatthestadiumwillnowhaveagreat atmosphere.”
A range of sports are offered at the stadium, including badminton, basketball, netball,volleyball,futsalandpickleball.
Big crowd for major Ironman event
Independent photographer Ivan Kemp was in Geelong where a big crowd formed on Sunday 22 March at the IRONMAN 70.3 Geelong event.
Partnership to build energy skills
More training and jobs in renewable energy across Geelong is the aim behind a new partnership between GeelongPortandTheGordon.
The two organisations signed a memorandum of understanding on 23 March to grow skills and jobs as part of the proposed Geelong Renewables Terminal infrastructure project.
“Working with GeelongPort helps us train people locally for the clean energyjobsofthefuture,shapingthe next chapter of Geelong’s industrial story,” The Gordon chief executive JoeOrmenosaid.“Trainingalongside the Geelong Renewables Terminal gives our students a clear pathway from the classroom into meaningful, future-focusedworkrighthereinour region.”
“Partnering with The Gordon means we’re growing our own workforce for the future, right here in Geelong,” GeelongPort chief executiveBrettWintersaid.
“TheGeelongRenewablesTerminal is about bringing the clean energy transition home, creating real jobs, real skills and real opportunities for peoplewholiveandworkhere.”
The partnership will respond to skills needed across renewable energy, logistics, construction, operations and maintenance. The organisations will work together to incorporate a purpose-built Renewables Research and Education Campus at the terminal site.
Left: Kat Matthews, from the UK, celebrates after winning the Ironman Geelong 70.3 women’s section. 542088_15 Right: Joel Wallace with his children Elsie, Thomas and Jack. 542088_01 Centre right: Grace Beck with her 97-year-old grandfather, Bryden Davis after the race. 542088_18
Paralympian Jack Howell, competitor Charlotte McShane and her father Craig. 542088_20
Kat Matthews celebrates her win with fellow competitor Sophia Green and husband Mark. 542088_23
Mia Ronan, Sahra Cox, Kate Brown and Ava Hellyer with some encouragement for the competitors. 542088_24
Ironman Geelong 70.3 winner Kristian Blummenfelt from Norway celebrates with spectators after his win. 542088_05
Federal MP Libby Coker, Surf Coast Shire Mayor Libby Stapleton, councillors Tony Phelps and Joel Grist with Surf Coast Chargers players and members.
Forward planning
By Cr Stretch Kontelj OAM
Geelongisgrowingrapidly.
To manage our future success, we must create attractive spaces for the 130,000 additionalresidentsexpectedtoliveherein thenext20years.
Greater Geelong is set to be home to more than 440,000 people by 2046. So, establishing high quality residential developmentswillbekeytokeepingourcity vibrantandliveable.
The Northern and Western Geelong Growth Areas make up the largest urban growth project in regional Victoria and will welcome more than 110,000 new Geelong residents.
In addition to building new housing in our north and west, our growth planning must include innovative infill solutions to create new homes in established parts of ourmunicipality.
We recognise the need to make Geelong an attractive regional cosmopolitan hub for students,businessesandfamiliestothrive. It’sfittingthen,thatourleadingeducation providers are exploring creative ways to meetourregion’sambitioushousingtargets.
Students at Deakin’s School of Architecture and Built Environment are exploring innovative ways to rejuvenate a section of Geelong in this year’s Urban HeartSurgeryForum.
In the forum, students from the Master of Architecture program have been asked to imagine a revitalisation project that transforms Geelong’s ‘West Fyans - Fyans
Welcome to the neighbourhood
StreetPrecinct.’
TheinvestigationareaisboundedbyWest Fyans Street to the north, Shannon Avenue inthewest,LaTrobeTerracetotheeastand theBarwonRivertothesouth.
The West Fyans - Fyans Street Precinct is something that we, as a council, consider animportantareaforfutureresidentialand mixed-use development, having identified this predominantly industrial area as a key development opportunity back in 2007 in theHousingDiversityStrategy.
Students will explore various concepts that accommodate a diverse range of quality living and working environments, reconnecting the precinct with the Barwon River and celebrating the area’s industrial heritage.
They then will establish one preferred design concept and explore design ideas through a range of scaled models and visualisations.
Ilookforwardtoseeinghowstudentswill interpret a vibrant mixed-use space at the precinct, celebrating innovation, useability andliveability.
Established in 1999, the Urban Heart Surgery Forum has focused on different areas within Greater Geelong over the years, exploring creative concepts for innovative housing models for central Geelong, revitalisation strategies for High Street, Belmont and alternative visions for ourwaterfront.
Last year I offered an inaugural Mayor’s Prizetothemostpersuasiveproposalwhich explored central Geelong’s ‘western wedge’ connecting Geelong Railway Station to adjacentprecincts.
I am proud to announce the return of the prize, which will coincide with Geelong DesignWeekinOctober.
I will join an esteemed panel to select a winning concept based on innovation, creativity and alignment with our status as a UNESCO City of Design. Similar to last year,anexhibitionwillshowcaseaselection ofthestudentprojectstothepublic.
As a local government, we must celebrate the creative minds pushing us to think outsidethebox.
We have seen the impact of this kind of ingenuitybefore.
Just last year, the Geelong Laneways: Malop Arcade project won the 2025 Australian Institute of Architects National AwardforSmallProjectArchitecture. The project extended Dennys Place from Malop Street to Little Malop Street via a breakthrough, creating a green and vibrant public laneway and proved how thoughtful designcanrevitalisepartsofourcity. By supporting our region’s aspiring architects and urban designers, we are ensuring that as Geelong expands, it remains a city defined by its character, accessibilityandliveability.
City of Greater Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj. (Supplied)
Easter School Holiday Activities Easter School Holiday Activities
Crafty Easter fun
Craft lover Stephanie Martinez shares an egg-citing craft project designed to inspire and spark creativity this Easter.
Stephanie starred in the first season of Making It on Network 10, where she discovered and ignited her passion for crafting.
Follow Stephanie’s instructions to create an Easter chicken bonnet.
Easter chick bonnet
Materials
3x A4 yellow sheets of paper
Orange paper
White paper
Black paper
Coloured feathers
Equipment
Ruler
Pencil
Scissors
Glue stick
Step 1: Create the brim and strips
Place a yellow A4 sheet in portrait. Measure 6cm in from one long edge and draw a straight line from the top to bottom to form the brim. On the larger section, draw vertical lines every 3cm to create 10 strips. Cut along the lines up to the brim, then cut off every second strip. Repeat with the second sheet.
Step 2: Form the hat base
Glue the sheets together side by side, slightly overlapping one sort edge. Curve to fit your head and glue the ends together to form a circular hat.
Step 3: Create the bonnet top
Bend the strips up and over the top, glue them together in the centre, then continue with the remaining strips.
Step 4: Decorate your chick
Scan QR code and follow the links for more creative fun.
Cut out circles for the eyes (white and black), an orange beak, and glue them onto the chick. Cut two yellow wings and glue them to the sides and add some feathers to the top.
Classic tale comes to life
An original and reworked children’s pantomime will keep the whole family entertained these Easter School Holidays at Bellarine Arts Centre (formerly known as The Potato Shed).
live there? Surely no one who lives in such a nice house could be bad? …. and who is ‘precious’?
Theatre 3triple2 4 Kids will present the classic tale Hansel & Gretel (with some kookynewtwists)fromTuesday14Aprilto Thursday 16 April at 10.30am and 1.30pm daily.
Brother and sister Hansel and Gretel are on school holidays playing games, learning a song or two and practicing the famous ‘slap dance’ …. oh, and trying to stay out of trouble. That won’t be easy though, when on a journey through the woods they end up losing their way. Is that a house made of sweets? Who could
With plenty of audience participation, silliness and laughter, music and singalongs and you can even learn the famous ‘slap dance’ This is a show which issuitableforallages,notsoscaryandjust lots of good fun.
The Theatre 3triple2 crew has years and years of experience both on stage and off, and we can’t wait to bring this classic fairytale (with a few modern twists) to the stage. Tickets are on sale now for $15 each, $50 for a group of four and it’s free for under twos.Bookon52511998orviatheQRcode in the advert.
Stephanie Martinez.
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 Refrain; pass (7)
5 Social dance (coll) (5-2)
9 Young adulthood (11)
10 Reverential wonder (3)
11 Value (6)
12 Sound of wood burning (7)
14 Poke (4)
15 Normal or conventional (10)
17 Rival (10)
19 Book ID (1,1,1,1)
20 Fixed sum of money paid each year (7)
22 Brawny (6)
25 Bedridden (3)
26 Combined whole (11)
28 Leather factory (7)
29 Kings and queens (7)
1 Partly open (4) 2 Blizzard (9)
3 RollingintheDeep singer (5)
4 Unavoidably (11)
5 Knowledge (3)
6 Tastefully fine (7)
7 Predator (5)
8 Promotion (10)
12 Aficionado (11)
13 Doctor with superior knowledge in a specific field (10)
16 Vital, indispensable (9)
18 Territory ruled by an Islamic monarch (7)
21 Synthetic fibre (5)
23 Prepared (5)
24 Just (4)
27 Lively (3)
Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.
Today’s Aim:
13 words: Good 19 words: Very good 25 words: Excellent
N A N M F I G
3 LETTERS
5
1 Swimmer Cate Campbell has won how many Olympic gold medals?
2 Angela Bassett (pictured) played which character in the Black Panther films?
3 Who released the album Small TownTemple in 2023?
4 The height of which US volcano was reduced by more than 400m after a massive eruption in 1980?
5 What breed of animal is a Brussels Griffon?
6 Which country introduced a Nuclear Free Bill in 1987?
7 Which song won the Best Original Song award at the 2026 Academy Awards?
8 The world’s longest-lasting light bulb was first switched on in what year: 1901, 1911 or 1921?
9 Which team won the 2025 Indian Premier League cricket final?
10 James Earl Ray is best known for assassinating which person?
The Guide
PICK OF THE WEEK
PATIENCE
ABC TV, Friday, 8.30pm
Former criminal record archivist Patience Evans (Ella Maisy Purvis, pictured) proved herself integral to the York police in season one of this British crime thriller – helping detective Bea Metcalf (Laura Fraser) with a fresh perspective on complicated cases. But as season two begins, we learn that Metcalf moved to Glasgow without warning and has been replaced by DI Frankie Monroe (Jessica Hynes, Spaced). The abrasive and stern Monroe views Patience, who is autistic, as a liability, and isn’t shy about expressing it. When a famous photographer is found dead at his exhibition, Patience is intrigued by the vampirelike crime scene, but is sent away by Monroe. Will her brilliance impress the new detective?
Friday, March 27
ABC TV (2) SBS (3)
BRITAIN’S GOT TALENT Seven, Sunday, 8.45pm
As the small screen’s premier talent show judge, Simon Cowell (pictured) is a tough man to impress. With decades of experience across Idol TheXFactorand this novelty franchise, you could safely say the grumpy Brit has seen it all: from dancing dogs to mediocre magicians to over-the-top opera singers. However, as the auditions for this 19th season of BGThead to Blackpool on Sunday, one act leaves Cowell astounded. Versatile voice-over artist Emily Cass mimics popular ads from TV and radio, yet Cowell doesn’t recognise a single one. It’s a humbling experience that brings the entertainment tycoon, worth an estimated A$900 million, right back down to Earth.
THE HUNTING WIVES
Nine, Tuesday, 9pm
THE OUTLAWS
ABC Entertains, Monday, 8.30pm
In this comedy-thriller series from Stephen Merchant, seven strangers from all walks of life are court-ordered to work on the renovation of a community centre in Bristol. Their disdain for the menial physical labour quickly grows into a resentment for each other, but their collective luck changes when a bag of cash falls from a loose ceiling tile. Most folks would reasonably assume that money was tied to criminal activities, but this crew have no clue that the loot they’ve claimed is the property of dangerous drug dealers. Poldark’s Eleanor Tomlinson, BabyReindeerbreakout star Jessica Gunning and Hollywood icon Christopher Walken (pictured) round out the cast.
This juicy Texan drama kicks up a gear as suburban gossip gives way to high-stakes detective work. After Sophie (Brittany Snow) realises she’s being framed for murder, the increasingly stressed outsider tries to get Kyle (Michael Aaron Milligan) to spill the beans about his estranged sister’s past. Meanwhile, as Jed’s gubernatorial campaign heats up and long-held secrets threaten her chances of being the state’s First Lady, Margo (Malin Akerman, pictured) goes to extreme lengths to secure her privacy. With both women willing to do whatever it takes to survive, it’s clear that this scandalous series is setting the stage for an unforgettable showdown in its final chapters.
SEVEN (6, 7)
NINE (8, 9) 6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News Mornings. 10.00 Compass. (PG, R) 10.30 Stuff The British Stole. (PG, R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00
ABC News At Noon. 1.00 The Piano. (R) 1.45 Can You Keep A Secret? (Ml, R) 2.15 The Assembly. (PG, R) 3.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 4.00 Murdoch Mysteries. (PG, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG,R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 Gardening Australia.
8.30 Patience. (Return,M) Abody isfound drained ofblood.
9.20 Tonight At The Museum. (PGs,R) Hosted byAlex Lee.
9.50 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PGs,R)
10.20 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction. (PG,R)
10.55 ABC Late News.
11.15 Melbourne Comedy Festival Gala. (R)
1.15 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGa, R) 2.00 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv) 5.00 Rage. (PG)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 11.15 The Makery. 11.30 Wiggle And Learn. 11.45 Andy’s Global Adventures. 12.35pm Ben And Holly. 1.30 PJ Masks. 1.50 Kangaroo Beach. 2.30 Daniel Tiger’s. 2.45 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 3.40 Thomas. 4.15 Andy’s Safari Adventures. 5.20 6.05 PJ Masks. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Scooby-Doo And Guess Who? 8.30 My Adventures With Superman. 8.50 BattleBots. 9.40 Gladiators UK. 10.40 Late Programs.
NITV (34)
6am Morning Programs.
11.00 Going Places. Noon MOVIE: The Fringe Dwellers. (1986, M) 1.45 Blackbird. 2.00 Tradition On A Plate. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters.
5.30 Nula. 6.00 Bamay. 6.40 Guardians Of The Wild. 7.30 MOVIE: Gremlins. (1984, M) 9.30 MOVIE: Tenacious D In The Pick Of Destiny. (2006, MA15+) 11.10 Nula. 11.40 MOVIE: Another Country. (2015, PG) 1am Karla Grant Presents. 2.00 Barunga Festival. 3.00 On The Road. 4.00 On The Road. 5.00 Bamay. 5.30 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 2.05 Windsor Castle Fire: The Untold Story. (PGa, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 Secrets Of The Tower Of London. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (PG) Brooke Blurton meets the marine life ofthe Dampier archipelago. 8.30 Titanic In Colour. (R) Charts the history ofthe White Star Line’s RMS Titanic through colour images. 10.20 SBS World News Late.
10.50 Sisi. (Ma) 11.50 Babylon Berlin. (MA15+a,R) 1.40 El Immortal: Gangs Of Madrid. (MA15+v, R) 3.30 Food, Sail, Love. (PG, R) 4.05 Bamay. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour: Singapore Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
SBS VICELAND (31)
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: Secret Diary Of A Cheerleader. (2023,Madv,R) Laurie Fortier. 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 AFL: Friday Night Countdown. Alead-up tothe Friday night AFL match. 7.30 Football. AFL. Round3. Collingwood vGWS Giants. From Marvel Stadium, Melbourne. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews. 11.15 GetOn Extra. Alook atthe weekend’s best racing. 11.45 To Be Advised. 12.55 Damnation. (MA15+asv,R) Seth and Lew are given anopportunity.
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 NBC Today.
7TWO (62, 72)
6am Morning Programs. 10.00 France 24 English News. 10.30 The Movie Show. 12.15pm DW The Day. 12.45 Jazz Fest: A New Orleans Story. 2.30 Bamay. 3.05 Where Are You Really From? 3.40 WorldWatch. 5.40 Inside The Huddle. 6.10 Over The Black Dot. 6.40 The Future. 7.10 Jeopardy! 7.40 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 MOVIE: Stolen. (2012) 10.15 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. 11.05 Homeland. Midnight The Swiping Game. 12.20 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Volta aCatalunya. 2.20 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera. 6am Morning Programs. 8.00 Million Dollar Minute. 9.00 Medical Emergency. 9.30 NBC Today. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Our Town. 2.30 Weekender. 3.00 Business Builders. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Better Homes. 5.00 Escape To The Country. 6.00 Bargain Hunt. 7.00 Better Homes. 8.00 Escape To The Country. 11.00 The Yorkshire Vet. Midnight Bargain Hunt. 1.00 Room For Improvement. 1.30 The Zoo. 2.00 Harry’s Practice. 2.30 Medical Emergency. 3.00 Better Homes. 5.00 Coastwatch Oz.
SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)
6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Fallen Leaves. (2023, Finnish) 11.30 That Good Night. (2017, Ma) 1.10pm The Fence. (2022, Mdlv) 2.50 The Movie Show. 3.25 Princess Caraboo. (1994, PGa) 5.10 Fried Green Tomatoes. (1991, PGalsvw) 7.30 Paradise Road. (1997, Mv) 9.40 Birthday Girl. (2001, Mlsv) 11.20 The Heartbreak Kid. (1993, Mls) 1.15am The Peacemaker. (1997, MA15+av) 3.30 Silver Linings Playbook. (2012, Malnsv) 5.45 Princess Caraboo. (1994, PGa)
7MATE (64, 73)
TEN (5, 10)
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: The Love Hunt. (2023, PGa, R) Scout Taylor-Compton, Brock Yurich. 2.00 Pointless. (PG) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. (PG) 5.00[MELB] TippingPoint Australia.(PG,R) 5.30 WIN News.
6.00 9News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Airport Security: USA. express delivery items.
8.30 MOVIE: The Blind Side. (2009,PGdlv,R) Ahomeless teenager realises his dream ofbecoming agridiron player, thanks tothe aid ofa kind family. Sandra Bullock, Tim McGraw. 11.10 MOVIE: Fall. (2022,Malv,R) Grace Caroline Currey.
1.00 Next Stop. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 Home Shopping.
5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)
9GEM (81, 92)
6am Morning Programs. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. Noon Filthy Garden SOS. 1.00 The Brokenwood Mysteries. 3.00 Explore TV. 3.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 4.30 Rugby Union. Women’s International. Aust vFiji. 7.00 Customs. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Broncos vDolphins. 9.55 NRL Friday Night Footy Post-Match. 10.45 MOVIE: Gringo. (2018, MA15+) 12.55am Explore. 1.10 1.40 The Brokenwood Mysteries. 3.35 Filthy Garden SOS. 4.30 My Favorite Martian. 5.00 Yorkshire Auction House.
9GO! (82, 93)
6am Morning Programs. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.30 Bewitched. 11.30 Rugby Heaven. 12.25pm MOVIE: The Meg. (2018, M) 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: Freaky Friday. (2003, PG) 9.30 MOVIE: 27 Dresses. (2008, PG) 11.45 Seinfeld. 12.15am Psychic Kids. 1.10 Love Island UK. 2.05 The Real Housewives Of Salt Lake City. 2.55 Parental Guidance. 4.00 Barbie: A Touch Of Magic. 4.30 Barney’s World. 4.50 Lego Dreamzzz. 5.10 Booba. 5.30 I Love VIP Pets. 6am Morning Programs. Noon Storage Wars. 12.30 American Pickers. 1.30 Pawn Stars. 2.30 Kick Ons. 3.00 Timbersports. 3.30 Swamp People: Serpent Invasion. 4.30 American Resto. 5.00 Storage Wars. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Surveillance Oz. 8.30 MOVIE: Whitney Houston: I Wanna Dance With Somebody. (2022, M) 11.35 MOVIE: The Breakfast Club. (1985, M) 1.40am MOVIE: Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls. (1995, PG) 3.40 American Pickers. 5.00 Late Programs.
6.00 10 News+. Hosted byDenham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted byGrant Denyer. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG,R) Hosted byRebecca Gibney. 7.30 Soccer. FIFA Series. Australia vCameroon.
10.30 10’s Late News. Coverage ofnews, sport and weather. 11.30 10 News+. (R) Hosted byDenham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace.
12.00 Gogglebox Australia. (R) 1.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
10 COMEDY (52, 11)
Saturday, March 28
ABC TV (2) SBS (3)
6.00 Rage Charts. (PG) 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. (PG) 10.30 Rage Vault Guest Programmer. (PG) 12.00 Football. VFL. Round2. Sandringham v Werribee. 3.10 Extraordinary Escapes. (Final, PG, R) 4.10 The Matter Of Facts. (PG, R) 5.00 Australian Story. (R) 5.30 Landline. (R)
6.00 Kath & Kim. (PGals,R) Kath’s big day isbeset byhitches.
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG,R) Presented byTom Gleeson.
7.00 ABC News. Alook atthe top stories ofthe day.
7.30 Blue Murder Motel. (PG) Twolocals are poisoned bytheir own dinner.
8.15 Top End Bub. (M) Taya’s birthday turns tochaos with the arrival ofNed’s high-maintenance mother. Lauren secretly discovers who Taya’s father is.
8.40 Death In Paradise. (PG,R) Neville and the team investigate adeath and discover ahidden world ofdata mining, crypto and murder.
9.40 Frauds. (M,R) Bert reveals her master plan. 10.30 Rage. (MA15+dhlnsv)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Children’s Programs. 2.45pm Wiggle. 3.00 Play School’s Very Jazzy Street Party. 3.45 The Gruffalo. 4.30 Little J And Big Cuz. 5.10 The Snail And The Whale. 6.05 Knee High Spies. 6.25 Paddington. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 7.30 Kids Baking C’ship. 8.10 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. 8.55 Chopped Jnr. 10.00 Late Programs.
NITV (34)
6am Morning Programs. 1.50pm Guardians Of The Wild. 2.40 Over The Black Dot. 3.10 Soh Presents: Generations And Dynasties. 4.35 Off Country. 5.05 Rebel With A Cause. 6.00 Homesteads. 6.40 The Other Side. 7.30 Alone Australia. 8.35 MOVIE: The Fifth Element. (1997, PG) 10.50 Long Story Short: Willie Nelson 90. 1.40am Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 10.55 Peter Andre’s Greek Odyssey. 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00
PBS News. 2.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Milan-San Remo. Men’s Race. Highlights. 3.00 Stories From The Cities. (PG) 3.30 Going Places. (R) 4.30 Gestapo: Hitler’s Secret Police. (PGavw, R) 5.35 Orphans Of WW2. (PGaw)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Jewels Of The Mediterranean: Majorca Pt 3. (PG) Joanna Lumley narrates atravelogue ofMajorca. 8.25 Homebodies. After aman returns home tolook after his estranged mother, hediscovers her unusual housemate.
9.25 MOVIE: The Hostages’ Story. (2025,Mal) Documents the human cost ofstate hostage taking, including interviews with Australian Kylie Moore-Gilbert. Nazanin Zaghari Ratcliffe, Richard Ratcliffe. 11.05 Snowpiercer. (MA15+v,R) 1.45 El Immortal: Gangs Of Madrid. (MA15+v,R)
3.30 Food, Sail, Love. (R) 4.05 Bamay. (R) 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
SBS VICELAND (31)
6am Morning
Programs. 12.15pm Hoarders. 2.00 WorldWatch. 4.00 The Story Of. 4.35 The Future. 5.05 Mastermind Aust. 6.10 The Food That Built The World. 7.00 Motorcycle Racing. Aust Superbike C’ship. 10.00 Abandoned Americana. 10.55 Marcella. 12.45am Bamay. 1.20 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Volta aCatalunya. 3.20 Late Programs.
SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)
6am Morning Programs. 12.45pm Silver Linings Playbook. (2012, Malnsv) 3.00 Another Mother’s Son. (2017, PGalsv) 4.55 The Final Countdown. (1980, PGalv) 6.50 Enchanted Kingdom. 8.30 Moonfall. (2022, Malv) 10.55 Erotica 2022. (2022, MA15+dlnsv, Polish) 1.35am Birthday Girl. (2001, Mlsv) 3.15 Late Programs.
SEVEN (6, 7)
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. Family Stakes Day and Australian Cup Day. 5.00 Seven News At5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG,R)
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Athletics. Maurie Plant Meet. From Lakeside Stadium, Melbourne. 9.30 MOVIE: Men In Black: International. (2019,Mv,R) After aprobationary member ofthe MiB, anorganisation that monitors and polices aliens onEarth, teams upwith afellow agent, they uncover asinister plot that reveals atraitor isaiding aninvasion. Chris Hemsworth, Tessa Thompson, Liam Neeson. 11.45 To Be Advised. 1.00 Devils. (MA15+av,R) Dominic
wife Nina, who has disappeared. 2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Tales Of Aluna. (R) Agroup ofpeople lands ona magical island. 5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted bySimon Reeve.
7TWO (62, 72)
6am Morning
Programs. 2.30pm Medical Emergency. 3.00 Better Homes. 4.00 The Yorkshire Vet. 5.00 Horse Racing. Family Stakes Day and Aust Cup Day. 6.00 Luxury Escapes: World’s Best Holidays. 6.30 Dog Patrol. 7.00 Better Homes. 8.00 Lewis. 10.00 Escape To The Country. 11.00 The Yorkshire Vet. Midnight Late Programs.
7MATE (64, 73)
6am Morning Programs. 2pm Rides Down Under: Aussie Truckers. 3.00 Motor Racing. Night Thunder. Aust Nationals. H’lights. 4.00 Frozen Gold. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 MOVIE: The Mummy: Tomb Of The Dragon Emperor. (2008, M) 9.45 MOVIE: Backdraft. (1991, M) 12.30am Late Programs.
NINE (8, 9)
6.00 Getaway. (PG, R) 6.30 ACA. (R) 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. (PG) 12.00 Open For Inspection. 12.30 Drive TV: What Drives Us. 1.00 My Way. (R) 1.30 Great Australian Detour. (R) 2.00 Global Energy Revolution. 3.00 Explore TV. (R) 3.30 Epic Builds. 4.30 Garden Gurus. 5.00 News. 5.30 Getaway. (PG)
6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Space Invaders. (PGa) Theteam helps Marg declutter her home.
8.30 MOVIE: Meg2: The Trench. (2023,Mav) Anexploratory dive into the deepest depths ofthe ocean ofa daring research team spirals into chaos. Jason Statham, Jing Wu, Shuya Sophia Cai.
10.50 MOVIE: Into The Blue2: The Reef. (2009,MA15+sv,R) Chris Carmack. 12.35 Epic Builds. (R) 1.30 Open For Inspection. (R) 2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa) 2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
9GEM (81, 92)
6am Morning Programs.
12.30pm Avengers. 1.30 MOVIE: The Gentle Gunman. (1952) 3.20 MOVIE: The Heart Of The Matter. (1953, PG) 5.30 MOVIE: Saturday Island. (1952, PG) 7.30 Death In Paradise. 8.40 MOVIE: Cheaper By The Dozen. (2003) 10.40 MOVIE: Dirty Rotten Scoundrels. (1988, PG) 12.55am Late Programs.
9GO! (82, 93)
6am Morning Programs. 2.40pm MOVIE: Fisherman’s Friends 2: One And All. (2023, PG) 4.50 Young Sheldon. 5.20 MOVIE: DC League Of Super-Pets. (2022, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Fantastic Beasts And Where To Find Them. (2016, M) 10.10 MOVIE: Chaos Walking. (2021, M) 12.10am Late Programs.
TEN (5, 10)
6am Morning Programs. 10.00 4x4 Adventures. (R) 11.00 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly
6.30 The Dog House. (R) Aman 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. Thecompetition ison, with and Andrew anew home. 9.30 Gogglebox Australia. (R) Adiverse range ofpeople open their living rooms toreveal their reactions topopular and topical TV shows, with the help ofspecial, locked-off cameras which capture every unpredictable moment. 10.30 Elsbeth. (Mv,R) A’90s supermodel returns toNew York for revenge. 11.30 Law & Order: SVU. (Mv,R) Theunit searches for anassailant. 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
Sunday, March 29
ABC TV (2)
SBS (3)
SEVEN (6, 7)
9) 6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Insiders. 10.00 Offsiders. 10.30 World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Praise. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 2.30 The Piano. (R) 3.30 Inside The Sydney Opera House. (R) 4.30 Creative Types. (PG, R) 5.00 Back Roads. (R) 5.30 Fake Or Fortune? (Return)
6.30 Compass: Reclaiming Pride. (PG)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 The Piano. (PG) Presented byGuy Sebastian and Andrea Lam.
8.20 Can You Keep A Secret? (Ms) Debbie’s ona mission tocatch ablackmailer.
8.50 Frauds. (Mlv) Trouble from home catches upwith Bilal.
9.35 Blue Murder Motel. (PGa,R) Twolocals are poisoned bytheir own dinner.
10.25 Top End Bub. (Ml,R)
10.45 MOVIE: Sweetie. (1989,MA15+l,R)
12.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 4.30 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.00 Insiders. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Morning Programs. 12.30 PBS Washington Week. 12.55 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 1.00 Motorcycle Racing. Australian Superbike Championship. Round2. Replay. 4.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Milan-San Remo. Women’s race. Highlights. 5.00 Going Places. (R) 5.30 Orphans Of WW2. (PGa)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Valley Of The Kings: Secret Tombs. Archaeologists look atthe burial complex ofPharaoh Ramses III.
9.20 Leonardo Da Vinci: Painter–God Pt 1. (Ma,R) Looks atDa Vinci’s time asa military engineer. 10.20 Lost Treasures Of Egypt: Rise Of The Mummies. (PGav,R) 11.15 Cycling. UCIWorld Tour. In Flanders Fields –From Middelkerke toWevelgem. Men’s race. 1.20 Cycling. UCI World Tour. In Flanders Fields –From Middelkerke to Wevelgem. Women’s race. From Belgium. 3.30 Designing Paradise With Bill Bensley. (R) 4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 PBS News Horizons.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Sunday Footy Feast. 2.30 AFL Pre-Game Show. Pre-game coverage ofthe match. 3.00 Football. AFL. Round3. Carlton vMelbourne.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Australian Idol. (PGal) Hosted byRicki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie.
8.45 Britain’s Got Talent. (PG) Auditions continue asweird, wacky and wonderful acts compete infront ofcelebrity judges.
10.00 King Con: Life And Crimes Of Hamish McLaren. (Mal,R) Alook atcon man Hamish McLaren.
12.00 A Friend Of The Family. (MA15+a,R)
1.10 Travel Oz. (PG,R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R)
4.00 NBC Today.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6am Morning Programs. 10.00 AFL Sunday Footy Show. (PG) 12.00 Wide World Of Sports. (PG) 1.00 Drive TV: Drive Car Of The Year. 1.30 One Tank Holiday. (Premiere) 2.00 Space Invaders. (PGa, R) 3.00 Take Me Home. (PG, R) 4.00 David Attenborough’s Dynasties II. (PGa, R) 5.00 News. 5.30 Postcards. (PG) 6am Morning Programs. 9.30 Well Traveller. (PG, R) 10.00 Farm To Fork. (R) 10.30 Australian Survivor: Redemption. (PGl, R) 12.00 Surf Life Saving. Australian C’ships. 2.00 Deal Or No Deal. (PG, R) 2.30 Basketball. NBL. Grand Finals Series. Sydney Kings v Adelaide 36ers. Game3. 4.30 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) 5.00 News.
6.00 9News Sunday.
7.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls)
8.40 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians.
9.40 9News Late.
10.10 My Wife, My Killer And The Secret Footage. (MA15+assv) Awoman orchestrates her husband’s murder.
11.10 The First48. (MA15+a,R)
12.00 A Killer Makes A Call. (MA15+av,R)
1.00 Drive TV: Drive Car Of The Year. (R)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00
Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 The Garden Gurus. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.30 10 News+. Hosted byDenham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 Australian Survivor: Redemption. (PGl) Thetribe continues totarget the returnees. 8.30 NCIS: Sydney. (Mv) Theteam heads tothe Top End toinvestigate aUS-Australian training exercise that has appeared toturn deadly.
9.30 Law & Order: SVU. (Mas) Aman claims his girlfriend has been kidnapped. Tynan comes down hard onBenson after adisagreement.
10.30 NCIS: Origins. (Mav,R) Christmas without his family. 11.30 10 News+. (R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)
7TWO (62, 72) SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 3pm Play School. 3.30 Thomas And Friends: Sodor Sings Together. 4.30 Little J And Big Cuz. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 Peter Rabbit. 6.05 Knee High Spies. 6.25 Paddington. 7.05 Let’s Go Bananas! 8.00 Foxes: Their Secret World. 8.45 Amazing Animal Friends. 9.35 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.15 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. Noon Over The Black Dot. 12.30 Inside The Huddle. 1.00 Motor Racing. Dakar Rally. H’lights.
6am Morning Programs. 4pm WorldWatch. 4.55 PBS News Compass Points. 5.25 Smoke And Steel: Secrets Of The Modern World. 6.20 The Architecture The Railways Built. 7.15 Abandoned Engineering. 8.15 Myths: The Greatest Mysteries Of Humanity. 9.20 Cycling. UCI World Tour. Volta aCatalunya. 11.20 Late Programs.
SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)
9GEM (81, 92)
6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm Business Builders. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Medical Emergency. 3.15 The Yorkshire Vet. 4.15 Australia’s Big Backyards. 5.15 The Aussie Property Flippers. 6.15 Escape To The Country. 7.15 Vicar Of Dibley. 8.30 Vera. 10.30 Miss Scarlet And The Duke. 11.30 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 1pm Midsomer Murders. 3.00 Rugby League. NRL. Canberra Raiders vCronulla Sharks. 6.00 Getaway. 6.30 All 7.30 Planet Earth III. 8.40 Paramedics. 9.40 Emergency. 10.40 Major Crimes. 11.40 Midsomer Murders. 1.40am MOVIE: Sailors Three. (1940) 3.25 Late Programs.
7MATE (64, 73)
6am Morning Programs. 2pm Red’s Fishing Adventures. 2.30 Hook, Line And Sinker. 3.00 Pawn Stars. 4.00 Mt Hutt Rescue. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Border Security: Int. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: The King’s Man. (2021, MA15+) 11.10 MOVIE: Pineapple Express. (2008, MA15+) 1.25am Late Programs.
9GO! (82, 93) 6am Morning Programs. 12.20pm The Hummingbird. (2022, Mal, Italian) 2.40 Mia And The White Lion. (2018, PGal) 4.25 The Assassin. (2015, PGv, Mandarin) 6.25 Merchant Ivory. 8.30 A Room With A View. (1985, Mnv) 10.40 Burning Days. (2022, MA15+av, Turkish) 1am Moonfall. (2022, Malv) 3.20 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 11.35 12.05pm Limitless With Chris Hemsworth. 1.15 Soccer. English Premier League. Everton vChelsea. 3.15 Australian Ninja Warrior. 5.05 MOVIE: Rams. (2020, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Rush Hour 3. (2007, M) 9.20 MOVIE: Three Amigos! (1986, PG) 11.25 Gotham. 12.20am Arrow. 2.00 Late Programs.
Monday, March 30
ABC TV (2) SBS (3)
6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News Mornings. 10.00 Blue Murder Motel. (PGa, R) 11.00 Top End Bub. (Ml, R)
11.30 Back Roads. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Landline. (R) 2.00 Parliament Question Time. 3.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PG, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG,R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 7.30.
8.00 Australian Story. Australians tell personal stories.
8.35 Four Corners. Investigative journalism program.
9.20 Media Watch. (PG) Presented byLinton Besser.
9.35 Planet America. Alook atAmerican politics.
10.10 Foreign Correspondent. (R)
10.40 ABC Late News.
10.55 The Business. (R)
11.10 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PGs, R) 11.40 Murdoch Mysteries. (Ma, R) 12.30 Long Lost Family. (R) 1.15 Parliament Question Time. 2.15 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 2.40 Ragdoll. (MA15+av, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Morning Programs. 12.10 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News Compass Points. 1.30 Al Jazeera News Hour. 2.00 The Great House Revival. (R) 3.00 Going Places. (PG, R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Secrets Of The Tower Of London. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)
6.30 SBS World News.
7.35 Inside The Tower Of London. (PG) Thousands offragile VE Day poppies arrive atthe Tower.
8.30 8 Out Of10 Cats Does Countdown. (M) Game show, featuring Jon Richardson, Babatunde Aleshe, Rob Brydon and Katherine Parkinson tackling awords and numbers quiz.
9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M) Hosted byGreg Davies. 10.05 SBS World News Late. 10.35 Other People’s Money. (Ml) 11.30 Gomorrah. (MA15+v,R) 2.30 Designing Paradise With Bill Bensley. (PG, R) 4.00 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 10.25 Children’s Programs. 2.45pm The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 3.40 Thomas. 4.15 Andy’s Safari Adventures. 5.20 6.05 PJ Masks. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago: Crystalized. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Gladiators UK. 9.45 Kids BBQ Championship. 10.25 Late Programs.
NITV (34)
6am Morning Programs. Noon Saints And Warriors. 2.00 Tradition On A Plate. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.30 The 77 Percent. 6.00 Bamay. 6.40 Guardians Of The Wild. 7.30 Who Do You Think You Are?
8.30 Karla Grant Presents. 9.35 MOVIE: One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest. (1975, MA15+) 11.55 Late Programs.
SIGNUP NOW!
Tuesday, March 31
6am Morning
Programs. 2.10pm Over The Black Dot. 2.40 Stories From The Cities. 3.10 WorldWatch. 4.05 PBS News Compass Points. 4.35 WorldWatch. 5.05 Alone Denmark. 6.15 Curse Of Oak Island. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Holy Marvels. 9.20 Greatest Escapes. 10.10 Homebodies. 11.15 Late Programs.
SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)
6am Morning Programs. 12.25pm Gloria Bell. (2018, Mdlns) 2.15 The Final Countdown. (1980, PGalv) 4.10 Under The Cover Of Cloud. (2018, PGals) 5.50 Five Flights Up. (2014, PGal) 7.30 Fathers And Mothers. (2022, Mdlns, Danish, Icelandic) 9.25 How To Make A Killing. (2024, MA15+v, French) 11.30 Late Programs.
ABC TV (2) SBS (3)
6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Australian Story. (R) 10.30 Planet America. (R) 11.05 The Matter Of Facts. (PG, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Death In Paradise. (PGv, R) 2.00 Parliament Question Time. 3.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGv, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6am Morning Programs. 10.55 DNA Journey. (PG) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 The Great House Revival. (R) 3.00 Trail Towns. (PG, R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 Secrets Of The Tower Of London. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) 7.00 ABC News.
7.30 7.30.
8.00 Foreign Correspondent.
8.30 The Matter Of Facts: Disinformation Versus Democracy. (PG) Theteam investigates how democracy isweakened.
9.20 Creative Types With Virginia Trioli: Nazeem Hussain. (PG,R) 9.50 Compass. (PG,R) 10.35 ABC Late News. 10.50 The Business. (R) 11.05 Four Corners. (R) 11.50 Media Watch. (PG, R) 12.10 Murdoch Mysteries. (Mav, R) 12.55 Long Lost Family. (R) 1.40 Parliament Question Time. 2.40 Ragdoll. (MA15+v, R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.30
7.30. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Great Continental Railway Journeys. (R) 8.30 Insight. Kumi Taguchi explores sibling relationships. 9.30 Dateline: Glasgow – No Vacancy. 10.00 Rock Legends. (PGa) 10.30 SBS World News Late. 11.00 Exit. (Return, MA15+adlnsv) 11.55 Wolf. (Madlv, R) 2.10 Reset. (Mn, R) 3.05 Designing Paradise With Bill Bensley. (PG, R) 4.05 Bamay. (R) 4.45 Destination Flavour: Japan Bitesize. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour Down Under Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 10.25 Children’s Programs. 3.40pm Thomas. 4.15 Andy’s Safari Adventures. 5.20 6.05 PJ Masks. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 The Slow Mo Guys’ Big Adventures. 9.10 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 9.35 BattleBots. 10.20 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 1pm MOVIE: The Saltwater Story. (2018, PG) 2.00 Tradition On A Plate. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00
SEVEN (6, 7)
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Seven News With Alex Cullen. 1.10 Blankety Blank. (PGas,R) 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Brax
7.30 Australian Idol. (PG) Hosted byRicki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie.
8.40 9-1-1. (Mav) Hencontinues toseek out adiagnosis for her mysterious symptoms.
9.40 The Agenda Setters. (R) Ateam oftrusted and respected footy voices tackles the biggest topics inthe AFL world.
10.40 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. (R)
11.40 Autopsy USA: Frank Sinatra. (Ma,R)
12.40 Conviction. (MA15+av,R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62, 72)
6am Morning Programs. 11.30 The Zoo. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 ICU. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 Auction Squad. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Doc Martin. 8.30 A Touch Of Frost. 10.50 Ambulance: Code Red. 11.50 Doc Martin. 12.50am Late Programs.
7MATE (64, 73)
6am Morning Programs. 2.30pm Boating. Circuit Boat Drivers C’ship. 3.30 Swamp People: Serpent Invasion. 4.30 American Resto. 5.00 Storage Wars. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 The Agenda Setters. 8.30 Aussie Gold Hunters. 9.30 Outback Opal Hunters. 10.30 Aussie Salvage Squad. 11.30 Late Programs.
NINE (8, 9)
TEN (5, 10)
6am Morning Programs. 2.35pm Kars & Stars. 3.05 WorldWatch. 5.05 Alone Denmark. 6.15 Curse Of Oak Island. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35
8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 James May: Our Man In... Japan. 9.30 Into The Void: Life, Death And Heavy Metal. 10.25 Chasing Speed. 11.20 Brassic. (Return) 12.15am Late Programs.
SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)
6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) (Ml) Ateam offooty experts tackles the AFL’s big issues and controversies.
10.00 9News Late.
10.30 100% Footy. (Mal) Features the latest rugby league news.
11.30 Outback Opal Hunters. (PGl)
12.30 Sight Unseen. (Mav)
1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
2.30 Global Shop. (R)
3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)
4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
9GEM (81, 92)
6am Morning Programs. Noon Worst House On The Street. 1.00 Shakespeare And Hathaway. 2.00 Planet Earth III. 3.10 Garden Gurus. 3.40 MOVIE: Home At Seven. (1952, PG) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Death In Paradise. 8.40 TBA. 10.40 Coma. 11.40 Shakespeare And Hathaway. 12.40am Late Programs.
9GO! (82, 93)
6am Morning Programs.
11.30 Explore. 11.45 Ready Vet Go: The Vet Paramedics. 12.15pm MOVIE: The Aegean. (2024, M) 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: The Terminator. (1984, M) 10.45 Seinfeld. 11.45 The 100. 12.40am Love Island UK. 1.35 Late Programs.
6.00 10 News+. Hosted byDenham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (PG) Hosted byGrant Denyer. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG) Hosted byRebecca Gibney. 7.30 Australian Survivor: Redemption. (PGl) Aplayer plans totake out abig dog. 8.40 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TVfanatics open uptheir living rooms toreveal their reactions topopular and topical TV shows. 9.40 10’s Late News. Comprehensive coverage oflocal, national and international news, aswell asthe latest sport and weather. 10.40 10 News+. (R) 11.10 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)
SEVEN (6, 7)
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Seven News With Alex Cullen. 1.10 Blankety Blank. (PGas,R) 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. (Mls, R) 1.30 Getaway. (PG, R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. (PG) 5.00[MELB] TippingPoint Australia.(PG) 5.30 WIN News.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) 7.30 Highway Patrol. (PGl) Thousands ofdollars are found inthe street. 8.30 Doc. his life atWestside with Hannah byhis side. The board launches aninternal investigation.
9.30 House Of Wellness. (Return,PG) Insights and experiences that highlight living well.
10.30 The Agenda Setters. (R) 11.30 St. Denis Medical. (PGal)
12.00 Dirty John. (MA15+v) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62, 72)
6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Married At First Sight. experiment sees ahuge twist. 9.00 The Hunting Wives. (MA15+lnv) Margo hits the campaign trail. (Ml) 11.00 9News Late. 11.30 Next Stop. (PG)
12.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.00 Destination WA. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Our State On A Plate. (R) 3.00 Home Shopping. 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
9GEM (81, 92)
6am Morning Programs. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Ambulance: Code Red. 2.00 Creek To Coast. 2.30 Escape To The Country. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Call The Midwife. 8.45 Judge John Deed. 10.45 Escape To The Country. 11.45 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. Noon Death In Paradise. 1.10 TBA. 3.00 Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE: Catch Us If You Can. (1965) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 New Tricks. 8.40 Agatha Christie’s Marple. 10.40 Harry Wild. 11.40 Manifest. 12.40am Antiques Roadshow. 1.10 1.40 Late Programs.
7MATE (64, 73)
ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 11.30 Jeopardy! Australia. 12.40pm MOVIE: Heart Of The Man. (2024, M) 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Bruce Almighty. (2003, M) 10.30 Seinfeld. 11.30 The 100. 12.25am Love Island UK. 1.20 The Real Housewives Of Salt Lake City. 2.10 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 12.30pm Pawn Stars. 1.30 Aussie Gold Hunters. 2.30 Outback Opal Hunters. 3.30 Swamp People: Serpent Invasion. 4.30 American Resto. 5.00 Storage Wars. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 The Agenda Setters. 8.30 Cape Carnage: Killer Catch. 9.30 Outback Truckers. 10.30 Railroad Australia. 11.30 Late Programs.
9GO! (82, 93) 6am Morning Programs. 1.40pm The Assassin. (2015, PGv, Mandarin) 3.35 A Room With A View. (1985, Mnv) 5.40 Finding Graceland. (1998, PGs) 7.30 Dragons Forever. (1988, Madvw, Cantonese) 9.15 Kung Fu Hustle. (2004, Mv, Cantonese) 11.00 Man Up. (2015, Mls) 12.40am Late Programs.
6.00 10 News+. Hosted byDenham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (PG) Hosted byGrant Denyer. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG,R) Hosted byRebecca Gibney. 7.30 Soccer. FIFA Series. Australia vCuracao. 10.30 10’s Late News. Coverage ofnews, sport and weather. 11.30 10 News+. (R) Hosted byDenham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 12.00 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) Hosted byStephen Colbert. 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)
Wednesday, April 1
ABC TV (2) SBS (3)
SEVEN (6, 7)
NINE (8, 9) 6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Four Corners. (R) 10.45 Foreign Correspondent. (R) 11.30 Back Roads. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 2.00 Parliament. 3.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 4.00 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGv, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (PG, R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 7.30.
8.00 Tonight At The Museum. (PGs) Hosted by Alex Lee. 8.30 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PGs) A satirical news program.
9.00 Can You Keep A Secret? (Ms, R) Debbie’s on a mission to catch a blackmailer.
9.30 Melbourne Comedy Festival: Allstars Supershow. (Final) Hosted by Brett Blake and Bron Lewis. 11.30 Planet America. (R) 12.00 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGv, R) 12.50 Long Lost Family. (R) 1.30 Parliament Question Time. 2.30 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6am Morning Programs. 9.55 Rome: Rise Of Empire. (R) 10.50 DNA Journey. (PG) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.35 Insight. (R) 3.35 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Secrets Of The Tower Of London. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Sandi Toksvig’s Great Riviera Rail Trip: Monaco To Menton. (PG) Sandi Toksvig explores the sights of Monaco. 8.25 Mysteries Of Loch Ness. (PG, R) Explores the Nessie phenomenon. 9.20 Prisoner 951. (M) Richard’s hunger strike brings global attention. 10.15 SBS World News Late. 10.45 Rise Of The Raven. (Premiere, MA15+v)
11.50 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (Return, MA15+v) 1.40 (MA15+v, R) 3.20 Designing Paradise With Bill Bensley. (Ml, R) 3.45 Mountain Vets. (Ma, R) 4.55 Destination Flavour Scandinavia Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 10.25 Children’s Programs. 2.30pm Daniel Tiger’s. 2.45 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 3.40 Thomas. 4.15 Andy’s Safari Adventures. 5.20 6.05 PJ Masks. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 9.05 Adv Time. 9.50 Pokémon: Diamond And Pearl. 10.15 Late Programs.
NITV (34)
6am Morning Programs. 1.40pm Generations Of Men. 2.00 Tradition On A Plate. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.30 News. 6.00 Bamay. 6.45 Ocean Parks. 7.35 Ice Vikings. 8.30 Pro Bull Riding: USA. 9.30 Over The Black Dot. 10.00 Inside The Huddle. 10.30 MOVIE: Four Souls Of Coyote. (2023, M) 12.20am Late Programs.
6am Morning
Programs. 10.00 France 24 English News. 10.30 The Movie Show. 11.40 Lion Dancers: The Crane And The Lion. Noon DW The Day. 12.30 Jeopardy! 1.00 BBC News At Ten. 1.30 France 24. 2.00 WorldWatch. 3.00 MOVIE: Groundhog Day. (1993) 12.40am Dark Side Of The Ring. 1.35 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.
SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)
6am Morning Programs. 12.30pm Kung Fu Hustle. (2004, Mv, Cantonese) 2.20 Five Flights Up. (2014, PGal) 4.00 Manganinnie. (1980, PGa) 5.40 Clockwatchers. (1997, PGl) 7.30 Bad Eggs. (2003, Malv) 9.25 The Wog Boy. (2000) 11.10 November. (2017, MA15+v, Estonian) 1.15am Dragons Forever. (1988, Madvw, Cantonese) 2.55 Late Programs.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Seven News With Alex Cullen. 1.10 Blankety Blank. (PGas, R) 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGas)
7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PG, R) Hosted by Lee Mack.
8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Hosts Sam Pang, Mick Molloy and Andy Maher take a lighter look at all things AFL. (M) Hosted by Hamish McLachlan.
10.00 The Agenda Setters. (R) An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics.
11.00 No Holds Barred: GWS Giants. (Mal)
12.00 Kochie’s Business Builders. (R) 12.30 The Act. (MA15+ans, R)
2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62, 72)
6am Morning Programs. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 House Calls To The Rescue. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Heartbeat. 8.45 McDonald And Dodds. 10.45 Air Crash Inv. 11.45 Bargain Hunt. 12.45am Late Programs.
7MATE (64, 73)
6am Morning Programs. 12.30pm Pawn Stars. 1.30 Outback Truckers. 3.30 Swamp People: Serpent Invasion. 4.30 American Resto. 5.00 Storage Wars. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 The Agenda Setters. 8.30 The Force: BTL. 9.30 Caught On Dashcam. 10.30 World’s Wildest Police Videos. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. (Mls, R) 1.30 Explore TV. (R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. (PG) 5.00[MELB] TippingPoint Australia.(PG) 5.30 WIN News.
6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 Travel Guides. (PGls, R) The travel guides head to Florida.
8.30 MOVIE: Bride Wars. (2009, PGal, R) Two best friends become enemies after they realise they have scheduled their respective weddings for the same day. Kate Hudson, Anne Hathaway.
10.20 One Tank Holiday. (R)
10.50 9News Late.
11.20 The Killer Interview With Piers Morgan. (Mav, R)
12.15 Tipping Point. (PG, R)
1.05 Hello SA. (PG) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
9GEM (81, 92)
6am Morning Programs.
11.30 Explore TV. Noon New Tricks. 1.00 Agatha Christie’s Marple. 3.00 Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE: Mandy. (1952, PG) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Keeping Up Appearances. 8.40 Midsomer Murders. 10.40 The Spencer Sisters. 11.40 Manifest. 12.40am Antiques Roadshow. 1.10 1.40 Late Programs.
9GO! (82, 93)
6am Morning Programs. 11.30 Jeopardy! Australia. 12.30pm MOVIE: The 13th Summer. (2022, M) 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Shallow Hal. (2001, M) 10.45 Seinfeld. 11.45 The 100. 12.40am Love Island UK. 1.35 The Real Housewives Of Salt Lake City. 2.30 Late Programs.
TEN (5, 10)
6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (PG) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 Australian Survivor: Redemption. (PGl) Tribemates give it their all at the reward challenge. 9.00 Elsbeth. (Mlv) Elsbeth leaps into the cutthroat world of New York ballet when an avant-garde choreographer’s Nutcracker rehearsal turns deadly. 10.00 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 11.00 10 News+. (R) Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 11.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R)
Thursday, April 2
ABC TV (2)
SBS (3)
6am Morning Programs. 11.00 Creative Types. (PG, R) 11.25 Can You Keep A Secret? (M, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Frauds. (Mlv, R) 1.45 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 2.15 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 2.55 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 3.55 Sister Boniface Mysteries. (PGa, R) 4.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6am Morning Programs. 10.50 DNA Journey. (Return, Ml) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 The Great House Revival. (R) 3.00 Going Places. (R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 Cecil: The Real Lion King. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)
7.00 ABC News.
7.30 7.30.
8.00 Back Roads: Copper Coast, SA.
8.30 Creative Types With Virginia (PG) Virginia
9.00 The Piano. (PG, R) Presented by Guy Sebastian and Andrea Lam. 9.50 The Matter Of Facts: Disinformation Versus Democracy. (PG, R) 10.40 ABC Late News. 10.55 The Business. (R) 11.10 Sister Boniface Mysteries. (PG, R) 11.55 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 12.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News.
7.30 Treasures With Bettany Hughes: Switzerland – Stories Through Time. (PG) Bettany Hughes journeys through Switzerland’s mountains.
8.25 Our Medicine. (PGa, R) Dr Robert Blackley treats a pregnant mother. 9.35 Riot Women. (Premiere) A group of women form a punk rock band. 10.40 SBS World News Late. 11.10 In Memoriam. (Malsv) 12.05 Blackwater. (Malsv, R) 2.15 Beyond Signs. (MA15+a, R) 3.15 Designing Paradise With Bill Bensley. (R) 4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 10.25 Children’s Programs. 2.30pm Daniel Tiger’s. 2.45 The Makery. 3.00 Play School. 3.40 Thomas. 4.15 Andy’s Safari Adventures. 5.20 6.05 PJ Masks. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Ultimate Vets. 9.05 Animal Park. 10.35 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 12.10pm DW The Day. 12.40 Alone. 1.55 Insight. 3.00 WorldWatch. 5.00 Alone Denmark. 6.05 Myths: The Greatest Mysteries Of Humanity. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. 9.20 History’s Greatest Mysteries. 10.10 The UnXplained. 11.00 Brassic. 12.50am Late Programs.
SEVEN (6, 7)
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Seven News With Alex Cullen. 1.10 Catch Phrase. (PG, R) 2.00 Bridge Of Lies: Celebrity Specials. 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.
6.00 Seven News.
7.00 Football. AFL. Round 4. Brisbane Lions v Collingwood. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews taking a look back at all the action from the match.
11.00 Kick Ons. A preview of the upcoming AFL matches.
11.30 Australian Idol. (PGal, R) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie.
1.15 Damnation. (MA15+asv, R) Creeley meets his master.
2.30 Home Shopping. (R)
4.00 NBC Today. News and current affairs.
5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
7TWO (62, 72)
6am Morning Programs. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Air Crash Inv. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Better Homes. 5.00 Escape To The Country. 6.00 Bargain Hunt. 7.00 Home And Away. 7.30 Father Brown. 8.30 The Inspector Lynley Mysteries. 10.30 Murdoch Mysteries. 11.30 Late Programs.
6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Space Invaders. (PGa, R) 1.00 One Tank Holiday. (R) 1.30 My Way. 2.00 Pointless. (PG) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. (PG, R) 5.30 WIN News. 6am Morning Programs. 7.00 Deal Or No Deal. (PG, R) 7.30 GCBC. (R) 8.00 Lingo. (R) 9.00 The Finish Line. (R) 10.00
6.00 9News.
7.00 A Current Affair.
7.30 RBT. (PGdl, R) Follows the activities of police units.
8.30 Emergency. (Mlm, R) Doctor Glenn Harrison fears a tradie, crushed under 300kg of cement, has brain injuries.
9.30 A+E Crash Scene Emergency. (Malv, R) A vehicle collides with a tractor.
10.30 The Equalizer. (MA15+v)
11.20 9News Late. 11.50 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 12.40 Pointless. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Home Shopping. 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
9GEM (81, 92)
6am Morning Programs. 3.10pm Antiques Roadshow. 3.40 MOVIE: Carry On Spying. (1964) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Dolphins v Manly Sea Eagles. 9.55 NRL Thursday Night Footy Post-Match. 10.40 Forensics: The Real CSI. 11.55 Late Programs.
6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 Gogglebox Australia. Opinionated viewers discuss TV shows. 8.30 The Graham Norton Show. (Mlv) Graham Norton is joined on the couch by guests Stephen Graham, Kaley Cuoco, Leo Woodall and Adrian Lester. 9.40 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 10.40 10 News+. (R) 11.10 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)
6am Morning Programs. 12.30pm Pawn Stars. 1.30 Highway Patrol. 2.30 The Force: BTL. 3.30 Swamp People: Serpent Invasion. 4.30 American Resto. 5.00 Storage Wars. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Highway Patrol. 8.00 Motorway Patrol. 8.30 Britain’s Got Talent. 9.50 MOVIE: Billy Madison. (1995, M) 11.50 Late Programs.
9GO! (82, 93) 6am Morning Programs. 1.20pm The Longest Week. (2014, Mas) 2.50 Discovering Film. 3.45 Finding Graceland. (1998, PGs) 5.30 Without A Clue. (1988, PGav) 7.30 Monty Python And The Holy Grail. (1975, PG) 9.10 What We Do In The Shadows. (2014, Mhlsv) 10.45 In Bruges. (2008, MA15+adlv) 12.45am Late Programs. 7MATE (64, 73) SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 1pm Over The Black Dot. 1.30 Inside The Huddle. 2.00 Tradition On A Plate.
6am Morning Programs. 11.30 Jeopardy! Australia. 12.30pm MOVIE: Wanda And Sully. (2023, M) 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: The Matrix Revolutions. (2003, M) 11.05 Seinfeld. 12.05am Rugby Heaven. 1.05 Love Island UK. 2.05 Late Programs.
Immerse in Greek culture
By Lee McCarthy
ONE of the added joys of travelling on a Viking cruise in Europe are the mini vacations offered in buzzing cities before and after sailing.
These trips give guests the opportunity to soak up the culture and vibe of the port city while preparing for departure.
As part of their packaging, Viking offer three-day extensions on their cruise options where everything is taken care of in the same perfect fashion that passengers become accustomed to onboard.
They have just launched a new three-night pre or post cruise extension on their ‘Greek Traditions’ cruises available on select Mediterranean ocean voyages from 2026 onwards. The extensions are available on the following itineraries: the Ancient Mediterranean Treasures cruise, Italy, the Adriatic, and Greece cruise; Journey to Antiquities cruise; Mediterranean Antiquities Venice cruise and the Adriatic and Greece cruise.
Based in Nafplio in the Peloponnese, the extension immerses guests in Greek culture and cuisine, with olive oil, honey and wine tastings,avisittoancientNemea,guidedwalking tours, and time to explore one of Greece’s most charming historic towns.
Greek Traditions extensions include hotel nights in Nafplio with seven meals, three guidedtours: Nemea and Nafplio; Honey and Wine Tasting; Olive Oil Factory and Tasting.
With extension prices starting from $2,699 and fully escorted by a Viking Tour Director, with all transfers included these extra days on land offer a divine opportunity to absorb the essence of Europe and the mediterranean.
For those considering the ‘Venice, the Adriatic and Greece’ option, this eight-day, four country cruise with six guided tours is now very affordable with pricing starting from only $6695.
The cruise leaves from Venice and takes in the spectacular Adriatic Sea with stops in Split, Croatia, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Corfu, Katakolon and Athens. An exceptional holiday taking in all the yearned for destinations in one cruise.
Those booking now can save up to $2500 with a ‘companion flies free’ option available on selected 2026-2028 voyages (check with Viking for full terms and conditions).
This cruise with allow travelers to discover Venice exploring St Marks Square, or the Doge’s Palace, the famed Rialto Bridge or learn about Venetian mask crafting.
Another city to discover is Split, one of Croatia’s oldest cities, it has a promenade which commands majestic views over a bay and the Adriatic Sea. There is time to explore the city centre and Diocletian’s Palace, journey to Trogir or the Krka Waterfalls.
In Split, take the opportunity to join the Executive Chef for a unique, market to table experience where guests take an interactive culinary adventure. Immerse yourself in local culture and cuisine at the local market and handpick ingredients under the guidance of the chef.
Later that evening, dine on regional dishes prepared by the culinary team, using produce from the market.
Next stop is Dubrovnik where visitors can walk the marbled Stradun in Dubrovnik, pass Sponze Palace and see the 15t Century Onogrio’s Fountain or sample some of the best of Croatia’s wines during a winery tour and tasting in the beautiful Konavle Valley.
Sail through scenic fjords to the remarkably
preserved Kotor, Montenegro’s historic gem. Explore its Medieval Streets, visit the Cathedral of St. Tryphon or immerse yourself in the Maritime Museum.
In magnificent Corfu in Greece stroll the streets of Old Town, see Mouse Island and the Vacherna Monastery. For those chasing more physically challenging activities explore Corfu’s spectacular natural landscapes and inviting villages by bicycle on an invigorating tour.
Katakolon is huddled around a pretty little harbour dotted with colourful fishing boats. Nearby, the fertile valleys of the western Peloponnese are a bounty of olive groves, vineyards and orchards, and lead to the legendary city of Olympia. In Olympia visit the Olympic
park, see the Temple of Zeus, and browse the Olympic Archaeological Museum.
This truly stunning eight-day cruise sadly ends at magnificent Athens.
This is one of the best ways to visit these much-loved cities especially for those over fifty who want a little bit of luxury without having to decide where the best place is to stay, eat, drink, exercise, or shop.
Guests can extend their holiday in Athens by joining another extension tour to absorb more of ancient Greece for a few days before leaving for home.
Find out about this and many more cruises available from Viking at www.viking.com or phone 138 747.
Experience Greek hospitality, farming practices and regional cuisine in Nafplio before joining one of Viking’s Greek Traditions cruises.
Explore the bougainvillea lined alleyways of Nafplio during a three-day extension before boarding the Greek Traditions cruise. (Supplied)
Stay in spacious comfort and become immersed in Greek culture and cuisine, with olive oil, honey and wine tastings.
MUST END 31 MARCH 2026
This is your last chance to fly free, upgrade to business class or save up to $5,000 per couple on 2026-2028 river, ocean and expedition voyages
WONDERS OF INDIA
Roundtrip
India
Purpose-built for the Brahmaputra River, Viking Ganges joins Viking Brahmaputra, bringing Viking’s signature Scandinavian design to India. Explore the Taj Mahal in Agra, wander Old Delhi’s historic streets and discover Jaipur’s Palace of Winds as you journey through India’s Golden Triangle.
THESE SAILINGS WILL SELL FAST. BOOK NOW.
From $16,295pp in Veranda Stateroom
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 Geelong Independent Community Calendar, 1/47 Pakington Street, Geelong West, 3218, or email to editorial@geelongindependent.com.au. Deadline for copy and announcements is 5pm Tuesday. Due to the ever increasing entries coming in each week for our Community Calendar page, we have enough to fill almost three pages. This means your entry will not appear each week. We will do our best to rotate them fairly. If you have an existing entry that no longer operates, please let us know so we can remove it. Your patience and understanding is welcome for this FREE service. The calendar in its entirety with every entry is posted every Saturday at 9am at geelongindy.com.au
Geelong Fibre Artists
Tides of Change exhibition, House Gallery, Queenscliff Neighbourhood House, 3 Tobin Avenue, Queenscliff, Monday-Thursday 9.30am-3pm, Friday 9.30am-1pm, Saturday & Sunday & public holidays 11am-4pm, until 12 April. Maggie, 0448 700 890
Ballroom dance
Leopold Hall, 805-809 Bellarine Highway, Saturday 28 March, 7.30-10.30pm. Admission $10 includes supper. Music: Kevin. Sunday 5 April, 2-4.30pm. Admission $5 includes afternoon tea. Bring a plate for both events if you can. Music: Kevin. 0400 500 402
Writers’ group
The Hub writers’ group meets at Arts Hub, Clifford Parade, Barwon Heads, first Sunday of the month, 2-4pm. New members welcome.
dorothy.johnston@hugonet.com.au
Geelong Evening VIEW
Third Monday of the month, 6pm, Waurn Ponds Hotel. Von, 0414 930 259 or geelongeveningview@gmail.com
Laughter Club Geelong Saturdays, 9am, Eastern Beach in front of the swimming enclosure. 30-minutes free laughter yoga done standing or seated. 0418 521 265
Lions Club International
Enjoy meeting great people and help out your community at the same time. Clubs all over greater Geelong - see which one is right for you.
Les, 0428 466 446
Grovedale Marshall Probus
Second Thursday of the month,10am, The Grovedale Hub, 45 Heyers Road, Grovedale. Anne, 0425 356 973
Chess Group
Chess lessons at Geelong West. Suitable for beginners who have a reasonably firm understanding of the game rules. Kids and adults welcome.
Isaac, isaacsmith5603@gmail.com or 0406 199 457
Croquet
Drysdale Bowling & Croquet Club, Clifton Springs Road, Tuesdays from 10am for training, bring a friend. 0428 740 591
Ocean Grove Senior Citizens 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove
Weekly
Tuesday: 1pm snooker, chess, indoor bowls
Wednesday: bingo 1.15pm, ukulele class 1.30pm, Chord Club jam session 4pm
Thursday: social afternoon, cards 500 1pm Friday: art classes 9am, social art group 1pm.
Fortnightly
1st & 3rd Monday: CWA, 2pm Paschal, 0426 889 456
Wednesday: Book club, 10.30am Paul, 0425 110 792 5255 2996 or groveseniors101@gmail.com
Leopold Book Club
Meets second Tuesday of the month at 6.30pm in Leopold. Very friendly group, new members welcome. Shirley, 0488 055 969
Church Aberdeen Street Baptist Church, each Sunday 10am to worship, sing and enjoy
Easter stall
Geelong Royal Children’s Hospital Auxiliary Easter stall & bake sale, Bellevue Avenue, Highton Village, Thursday 2 April, 9am-1pm. All proceeds to RCH.
traditional hymns followed by morning tea. All welcome.
Geelong Day VIEW
First Monday monthly from 11am at Shell Club, 76 Purnell Road, Corio. geelongdayview@gmail.com
Hamlyn Heights Combined Probus Meets second Thursday of the month, 10am, 200 McCurdy Road, Fyansford. Noel, 0425 706 339
Esoteric coffee meetups
For mature 18+ interested in the supernatural/occult paranormal experiences tarot cards, Anton La Vey, NDE, for fortnightly/coffee and chat catch-ups in northern Geelong/Geelong area. Bookings limited.
Text name/details, 0400 542 522
Combined Probus Belmont Central The Combined Probus Club of Belmont Central meets at 10.30am on the second Wednesday of each month at Waurn Ponds Hotel. Visitors welcome. Publicity officer, 0417 555 547
Geelong Central Probus
Third Friday of the month, 9.45am, Geelong RSL. geelcentprob@gmail.com
Newcomb Probus
Third Wednesday of each month, 10am, East Geelong Uniting Church, corner Boundary & Ormond Roads. Gary, 0407 320 735
Music for preschoolers
Mainly Music is a music and movement program for babies to preschoolers at St Albans-St Andrews Uniting Church, 276 Wilsons Road, Whittington, Tuesdays 10am during school terms. Rhonda, 0437 241 345
Leopold Library
Career Pathways covers careers in the sport industry, Thursday 26 February, 6-7.30pm. 4201 0675
Rostrum meets Geelong Rostrum Public Speaking Club Inc meets each Monday. Andrew, 0408 369 446 or Jan, 0407 296 958
Australian Multicultural Support Services
Social Support Groups for communities from different multicultural backgrounds for seniors over 65. Meals, activities and fun. White Eagle House, Breakwater. 10am-2.30pm Fridays.
9689 9170, amcservices.org.au or info@amcservices.org.au
Highton Seniors
Carpet bowls, bingo, cards, taichi, line dancing, mahjong. Community Centre, 84 Barrabool Road, Highton. Elma, 0411 065 524
Cards Wanted: card sharp partners to play the game of Bolivia on Thursday evenings. For venue email Ingrid. griddlepop@hotmail.com
Geelong Historical Society Inc.
Guest speaker first Wednesday of each month, 7.30pm, Virginia Todd Hall, 9 Clarence Street, Geelong West. Harry, 0473 807 944, geelonghistoricalsociety.org.au
Stamps
Geelong Philatelic Society Inc meets 7pm first Saturday of the month (excluding January) at Virginia Todd Community Hall, 9-15 Clarence Street, Geelong West, and 12.30pm third Monday of the month (excluding December) at Belmont Pavillion, 162 Barrabool Road, Belmont. Julie, 0438 270 549
Scrabble club
Christ Church hall, corner Moorabool & McKillop Streets, 1pm Saturdays. Beginners to experts welcome. Pauline, 0429 829 773 or John, 0434 142 282
Games
Scrabble, chess, board games or cards. Tuesdays 2-5pm, All Saints’ Parish Hall, Newtown. Afternoon tea provided. Dinah, 0418 547 753
Book club
Leopold CAE book club meets second Tuesday of each month 6.30pm. Shirley, 0488 055 969
Sing Australia Geelong Choir Wednesdays 7.30-9.30pm at Senior Citizens Centre, 52 Thomson Street, Belmont. No auditions needed. Mary, 0419 278 456
Mindfulness & meditation U3A 9.30am and 12.30pm Wednesdays, Cobbin Farm, Grove Road, Grovedale. Jean, 5264 7484
Geelong Dragon Boat Club
Paddle at Barwon River. Training Wednesdays 5pm, Saturdays 9am. Free one-month trial. revolutionise.com.au/geelongdragons
Lions Club of Geelong Breakfast Inc
Inviting anyone interested in having fun and serving others to meet on the first Tuesday of each month at 8am, Eastern Hub (behind East Geelong Cemetery), followed by breakfast. Dinner event third Thursday of each month in Geelong. ajd53m@yahoo.com
Scribes Writers Group
South Barwon Community Centre, Mondays 9.30am-noon. Welcoming new members to refine their skills.
geelongscribeswriters@gmail.com or 5243 8388
Ballroom dancing
Belmont Park Pavilion, Thursdays 2-4pm. Val, 5251 3529
Kids’ church Group lessons for children aged 3-6, 7-10 and 10+, St Paul’s Anglican Church Hall, 171a Latrobe Terrace, Geelong, first Sunday of the month during school term, 10.30-11.30am.
Suzie, 0402 963 855 or Althea, 0403 005 449
Mainly Music for Preschoolers Sessions of music and movement for preschoolers, St Barnabas and St Paul’s Church, 105 Wilsons Road, Newcomb. Every Thursday during term time 10-11.30am. Wendy, 0461 582 618
Combined Probus Club of Highton Meets third Thursday of each month, South Barwon Football & Netball clubrooms, McDonald Reserve, Reynolds Road, Belmont, 10am. Sandra, 0427 348 260
Zonta Club of Geelong Meets monthly for dinner first Wednesday of the month between February and December at 6.30pm for a 6.45pm start. RSVP essential. zontageelong.org.au or zontaclubgeelong@yahoo.com.au
Geelong Prostate Support Group Meets last Friday of the month (except December), 10am-noon, Belmont Park Pavilion, 162 Barrabool Road, Belmont. Bill, 0414 524 155 or info@geelongpsg.net
Geelong ballroom dancing Saturdays 7.30-10.15pm, corner Bayview Parade and Carey Street, Hamlyn Heights. Entry: $10. BYO drinks and a plate. 5278 9740 or geelongballroomdc.com.au
Corio Bay Lions Club Meets first and third Thursday of each month at 6.30pm. geelongcoriobay.vic@lions.org.au
Alcoholics (and other addicts) For Christ 12 Steps Group Meets Thursdays 7.30pm at Belmont-Highton Baptist Church, 43 Mt Pleasant Road, Belmont. 0420 910 763
Children’s play group For babies, toddlers, and preschoolers with parent/carer. Free play, story time, and music. Wednesdays 10am-11.30am in school term, St John’s Highton, 269 Roslyn Road, Highton. office@stjohnshighton.org.au or 0433 191 890
Belmont Seniors Players wanted to play 500 each Monday 12.30pm. Belmont Senior Centre, 52 Thomson Street, Belmont. 5241 1776
International flavour at the waterfront
Independent photographer Ivan Kemp took a stroll along the Geelong waterfront on a glorious Tuesday morning to see who was out and about with interesting results. Along with locals, there were people from the Wimmera, Canada and Scotland.
Veronique Hebert from Quebec. 542737_10
Christine Empeigne and her son Alec with Niko. 542737_03
Karina Hovington and Pierre-Antoine Montminy from Quebec enjoy breakfast. 542737_04
Curls and Jen from Horsham. 542737_01
Shirl Christiansen, Helen Wheeler and Alison Eeles. 542737_02
Milija and Milinka Ostrojic enjoy a walk on Milinka’s birthday. Cassie Bell with her dogs Molly and Daisie. 542737_06
Sadie Dorais and Ben Choundary. 542737_07
Nathan and Sher. 542737_08
Rankin Parker from Scotland. 542737_11
Teresa Lawrence takes in the sunshine. 542737_12
EDITOR
Position: Full-time
Lead two important regional news brands and help shape trusted local journalism across print, digital and social.
An exciting opportunity is available for an experienced and energetic Editor to lead the editorial direction of the Sunraysia Daily and Broken Hill Times, based from our Mildura office.
Online:
Phone:
Email:
This is a hands-on leadership role overseeing the Sunraysia Daily’s three-times-a-week printed edition, the Broken Hill Times, daily online publishing, and support for content across the company’s social channels.
You will lead the reporting team in Mildura and work closely with the small team in Broken Hill, while being supported by the Group Editor and our production hub team.
This is a strong role for someone who understands the importance of local journalism, can drive quality and consistency across platforms, and is committed to building audience and community impact.
About the role
In this role, you will:
•edit and oversee the Sunraysia Daily print editions published three times a week
•oversee editorial output for Broken Hill Times
•manage daily digital publishing across both brands
•assist with editorial content for the company’s social media channels
•lead, mentor and manage the team of reporters in Mildura and the small team in Broken Hill
•help drive strong news judgment, story generation, planning and follow-through
•work with the Group Editor and production hub team to ensure deadlines are met and quality standards maintained
•help grow audience engagement across print, online and social platforms
•maintain high standards of accuracy, fairness, balance and community relevance
•connect with the community, attend events and meet with key members of the community
About you
To succeed in this role, you will ideally have:
•experience in editing, newsroom leadership or senior reporting
•strong news sense and a passion for regional and community journalism
•excellent writing, editing and headline skills
•the ability to manage competing deadlines across print and digital
•strong people leadership skills and a collaborative approach
•confidence working across websites, digital publishing systems and social platforms
•an understanding of how to build audience through digital content and social distribution
•a commitment to accuracy, ethics and high editorial standards
•a great sense of community
What we are looking for
We are looking for someone who can:
•lead from the front
•support and develop reporters
•produce strong, relevant and engaging local content
•balance the demands of print, digital and social
•work positively with editorial, production and management teams across the group
Why join us
This is a rare opportunity to play a leading role in two important regional news mastheads and make a genuine difference in the communities they serve.
You will join a business that values trusted local journalism and supports its editors with experienced group leadership and central production resources, while still giving you the chance to have real editorial impact at the local level.
To apply
Please submit your application, including a cover letter and resume, outlining your relevant experience and why you are interested in this role to paul.thomas@starnewsgroup.com.au
Location: Mildura, Victoria
SPORTS QUIZ
1. Gold medallist Alysa Liu was the first American woman to land which difficult jump in figure skating competitively?
2. And in which year did she accomplish this feat?
3. In rock climbing safety, how many points of contact should a climber maintain with the wall at
given time?
4. Which sport is played by ‘The Dude’ and his friends in the 1998 film TheBigLebowski?
5. True or false: ice rinks are calibrated specifically for different sports?
6. Which LA Kings player recently made history by achieving the most points in franchise history? And which player’s record
13. The Sphere, an immersive sporting and entertainment complex, is located in which US city?
14. Which TV network will be the main broadcaster of Victorian Football League matches in 2026?
15. Dylan Moore is the former vice-captain of which AFL club?
16. Which sport is described as gymnastics on horseback?
17. Justin Holbrook is in his first year of coaching which NRL club?
Who played former Formula One racing driver Niki Lauda in the Billy Smith plays for which Seattle and Central Coast share which nickname in the MLB and A-League
What sport did former US president Richard Nixon partake in at the White House to relieve stress?
18. How many points did Miami Heat centre Bam Adebayo recently score, the second-most ever in an NBA game?
19. Which horseracing venue is located in Gloucestershire, England?
22. And which Aussie driver did not start the race for the second Grand Prix in a row?
23. Which state won Australia’s domestic 50-over One Day Cup cricket competition?
24. The official motto of which international sporting organisation is ‘Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together’?
27. Sydney-born soccer player Adrian Segecic has decided to represent which country instead of Australia?
28. Golfer Hannah Green has broken a 12-year drought to become the first Australian woman to win which tournament?
A crickete joint-rec $395,00 in 20
Which Australian cricketer scored a joint-record payday of $395,000 to take part in the 2026 Women’s Hundred tournament?
20. The Balgownie Rangers are the oldest running Australian club in which sport?
21. Which Mercedes F1 driver won the Chinese Grand Prix, his first victory?
25. How old is Max Dowman, who recently became the youngest goalscorer in English Premier League history?
26. Which country clinched the Six Nations rugby union title with a lastminute win over England?
29. Two Grands Prix set to be held in which two countries in the Middle East in April have been cancelled?
30. Which iconic rivalry between Australia and England will celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2027?
Quadruple jump 2. 2019 3. Three 4. Bowling 5. True
Anze Kopitar
Marcel Dionne
Daniel Brühl
Hawthorn 16. Equestrian vaulting 17. Newcastle
Kimi Antonelli
France 27. Croatia 28. Australian Open
Bahrain and Saudi Arabia
The Ashes cricket series
Niki Lauda Lauda
Norwegian, Brit triumphant
Norway’s Kristian Blummenfelt and Great Britain’s Kat Matthews won the men’s and women’sprofessionaltitlesatIRONMAN70.3 Geelong on Sunday 22 March.
Blummenfelt bounced back from disappointment two weeks ago in Taupo to claimastatementvictoryinanewcoursebest timewhileMatthews,havingassertedcontrol early and leading for much of the day, had to digdeepontheruntoholdoffafast-finishing Grace Thek, who thrilled the crowds with a late charge on her home course.
In the men’s race, Blummenfelt blasted his way to victory in 3:30:24 setting a new Geelong course best time by more than three minutes with a blistering 1:06:39 run. Last year’s winner Jelle Geens had to settle for second in 3:31:23 with Hayden Wilde rounding out the podium in 3:31:51.
“I’m pretty stoked, it was a fun battle to get out on top of, it always brings more to the race when both Hayden and Jelle are turning up, two athletes I respect a lot, and it tastes even better when I’m able to grab the tape,” Blummenfelt said.
“I’m very happy with how I felt on the run, it felt like I was flying there, quite the contrast to how it was two weeks ago in Taupo. It bringsagoodmomentumgoingintothenext one in Oceanside in six days.
“ItwasonfromthegunIwouldsay,Ithink it was mainly Hayden who was putting the pressure on the bike, and they even got a gap thereonthesecondlapandIwasjusthoping
that I could have a solid run, but I didn’t expect to be feeling that good on the run.
“The plan is to travel tomorrow morning, and just try to hopefully, get in some easy training, maybe squeeze in one intense sessionineachdiscipline,maybeWednesday or Thursday, just to flush things through, and then hopefully be good to go again for next week.”
Matthews once again lived up to her billing as pre-race favourite, securing yet another IRONMAN Pro Series race victory.
Her winning time of 4:06:14 put her just 36 seconds clear of Australia’s Grace Thek –who earned her ninth Geelong podium with Tamara Jewett of Canada rounding out the placegetters in 4:15:26.
“I’m really happy, really satisfied with the back-to-back wins, it’s the perfect way to kick off a year,” Matthews said.
“After New Zealand two weeks ago I actually felt better than I thought I would, but this race felt harder than I had hoped it would. “I think I had quite a good swim start,
Underdogs hold their own in grand finals
LOCAL TENNIS
Donna Schoenmaekers
It was a great day for the underdogs with 15 of 27 teams getting up in the Saturday Junior grand finals.
Meredith (Girls 6) and All Saints (Green Ball 5) remained undefeated with 5-1 and 6-0 wins respectively while Surfcoast Torquay Girls 4 Blue and Wandana Heights Green Ball 1 teams were the only other clean sweeps with 6-0 wins over Clifton Springs and Barwon Heads.
Inverleigh, Western Heights, Bannockburn and Teesdale went one from one with wins in Boys 11, Boys 6, Boys 4 and Green Ball 8. Western Heights repeated their 5-1 semi-final win over Wandana Heights while Bannockburn broke the tie after the singles winning both doubles to get ahead 4-2, and Teesdale avenged a 5-1 semi-final loss to All Saints reversing the result to a 5-1 win.
Hamlyn Park went two from two, in spite of having three teams, with Premier Boys coming from third to have their first win over Ocean Grove, and the White and Green teamsplayingoffinGreenBall4,withminor premiers White taking the win 5-1.
Ocean Grove were also guaranteed a flag in Green Ball 2 with their Blue and White teams facing off. White upset the minor premiers Wandana Heights to make the final, but Blue proved too strong, winning three singles and a doubles.
Ocean Grove had nine teams playing, with four managing a win. Boys 1 consolidated their 3-1 lead after the singles with a win in the second doubles to get up 4-2 over Geelong Lawn, Boys 9 went set for set with Highton Blue, but had more convincing wins than losses putting them up by seven games, while Girls 2 Blue were given a scare after Wandana Heights won both doubles to come back from 3-1 down, but fell two games short of the minor premiers.
Clifton Springs and Point Lonsdale won with the Springs over Point Lonsdale in Boys 8 and Lonnie getting the better of Ocean Grove White in Green Ball 7.
Drysdale finished the season minor premiers in Girls Premier and were looking to become the inaugural Summer winners, but Geelong Lawn got a jump start winning the doubles in a tie-break before winning the match two rubbers to one and 4-1 on sets while Girls 3 fared better with a 4-2 win over St Mary’s.
St Mary’s also went one from two with a close win over Wandana Heights in Green Ball 3. St Mary’s won the first two singles before Wandana fought back winning the second two, but St Mary’s were still ahead by two games. The result was put beyond doubt when Harrison Thwaites and Nell Baird won the first doubles 6-0 to give St Mary’s the win by five games.
Lara and Grovedale came head to head in Boys 5 and 10 with both matches going the way of the underdog. Lara won all four singles in Boys 5 while it was closer in Boys 10 with a tie-break, 7-5 and two 6-4 sets, but Grovedale came out on top 4-2. Grovedale also managed to sneak in a win in Boys 2. The sets were tied going into the doubles, but Grovedale’s team play showed through, winning both doubles.
Highton had a strong presence with six teams competing, four winning and almost all of them tightly contested. The most
I really like the running in to the water, the traditional start, running, dive, dolphin dive, so I feel like I got myself in a good spot and then I felt comfortable straight away actually. I was sort of aware of what’s going on and I felt good, I felt really good in the swim, so really happy with that dynamic. I think the gap was just over a minute, maybe less than two, to Sophia, which is really good.
“And then the bike I just felt really good, had really good legs. I got a bit tired, a bit lonely near the end and then on the run I really struggled. Five to 10k was a bit low, I wasthinking,‘goodness,isthismedone?’,but then I was able to rally, so I sort of took that confidence in the last couple of ks and I was like, yeah, I can run, it’s fine.”
Mannagh pens new three-year deal
Shaun Mannagh has signed a contract extension to remain at Geelong until at least the end of 2029.
Selected at pick 36 in the 2023 draft, Mannagh made his debut in round 1 of 2024, going on to play 12 games in his first season, including every match from round 17 through to Geelong’s finals campaign.
The 28-year-old built on an impressive debut season with an even stronger 2025, quickly establishing himself as one of the Cats’ most pivotal players. Across 23 matches in 2025, he finished with 31 goals and 20 goal assists, ranking among Geelong’s top five players in both categories.
comfortable win was in Boys 7, winning three of the four singles and sealed it against Leopold/Moolap taking the first doubles and a 4-2 win.
Green Ball 6 also came up against Leopold, but it was close. Highton were two games ahead after the first two singles and only one game after the second two, leading into the doubles, which were also shared, but Highton eventually won by three games.
Boys 3 started better against Ocean Grove, winning three of the four singles, but the Grove proved stronger in the doubles, levelling the match on sets, but Highton still held the advantage by two games.
Girls 5 were not quite so fortunate against Geelong Lawn, and would be ruing every missed chance. Highton got off to a flyer winning the first three sets, but Lawn took over and won the fourth singles and bothdoubleswhilekeepingHighton’sgame count low. Lawn prevailed by one game.
Surfcoast’s Girls 1 almost faced the same fate against Ocean Grove after winning threeofthefoursingles,butGrovemounted a comeback winning both doubles. Unlike Geelong Lawn, they couldn’t quite make up the difference with Surfcoast winning by one game.
“Shaun has quickly become an important part of our club on and off the field, and we’re thrilled to see him commit for another three years,” Geelong Cats EGM of Football Andrew Mackie said. “We know the energy, enthusiasm and maturity Shaun brings will continue to benefit the team, support our emerging players, and complement our senior group.”
Mannagh was recognised at club level for his work in the community with the Carter Family Community Champion Award.
Mannagh’s magic was on display in round 1, helping the Cats to their first win of the 2026 season against Fremantle, collecting 16 disposals and booting three goals.
Shaun Mannagh.
(Ivan Kemp)
Briton Kat Matthews wins the Ironman Geelong 70.3
women’s event. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 542088_13
Ironman Geelong 70.3 winner Kristian Blummenfelt from Norway celebrates his win. 542088_02
SJ Premier Boys premiers Hamlyn Park: Axel Potter-Ayres, Xavier Willoughby, Roy Savage.
SJ Premier Girls premiers Geelong Lawn: Frankie Moxham, Esme Laherty, Aria Williamson.
Finals fever in the air
Independent photographer Ivan Kemp was busy on Saturday 21 March, getting to the BPCA grand finals between Barwon Heads and Queenscliff at RT Fuller Oval, Barwon Heads, in A1 Grade, and Ocean Grove’s Memorial Oval for the Collendina vs Winchelsea A2 Grade decider as well as Winter Reserve in Belmont for the GCA Division 1 preliminary final between East Belmont and Lara.
Darcy Hewitt made the initial breakthrough for Barwon Heads. 541952_01
Left: Sam Schaller took 2/27 from 22 overs for Barwon Heads. 541952_17 Centre: Sean O’Neill drives for a single during his 45 for East Belmont. 541950_06 Right: Blake Ash hits the crease for Lara. 541950_15
Lachie Kidd is bowled by Darcy Hewitt for 10. 541952_14
Lochie Philp drives down the ground on his way to 33 for Queenscliff. 541952_10
Shane McNamara drives Kaden Marum for four on bus way to a fine 119 for East Belmont. 541950_09
Rhyce Nolan in action for Lara. 541950_04
Winchelsea captain Shane Murdoch batted superbly. 541954_14
Jacob Gasior in action for Collendina. 541954_01
Stan Grazotis gives this delivery plenty of air. 541954_05
Mark Simons cuts fine. 541954_11
A1 Grade awaits Winchelsea
By Justin Flynn
Winchelsea will compete in the Bellarine Peninsula Cricket Association A1 Grade competition next season for the first time since promotion and relegation was introduced in 2018/19.
Led by a superb all-round performance by captain Shane Murdoch, the Blues defeated Collendina in the A2 Grade final on 21 and 22 March and will replace Inverleigh in the A1 comp when the new season gets underway in October.
The Blues were the team to beat at the Christmas break, but went on a losing streak and needed to win their final game and hope other results went their way just to scrape into the finals. They would then go on to win their next three games against the top three teams.
“I think it was just a relief,” Murdoch reflected when his side won the game.
“At the start of the season we just wanted to be competitive. Last season we finished sixth and didn’t have the greatest season.
“And obviously we started really well and we were six and two and then hit a bit of a rough patch. But we hit form at the right time and just scraped in. And when you finish fourth and you go on a bit of a run, we obviously knocked off the top three sides to win it.”
Murdoch strolled to the crease on day one with his side in early trouble at 3/26 at Memorial Oval, Ocean Grove, and
proceeded to stamp his authority on the contest.
With the Blues at 4/41, Murdoch and Mark Simons began a rescue mission from potential disaster to a position of authority by the end of play.
The pair shared an 88-run partnership although when Simons departed for a well-made 41, Winch was 5/129 with still some work to do.
Contributions from Shane Currie (14) and Ben Caldicott (19 not out) allowed Murdoch to steer the innings with the skipper eventually falling for 69 from 140 balls. A final total of 9/198 wins most BPCA finals and Winch would have been confident going into day two.
Murdoch said “anything close to 200” would have been a good score on day one.
“If we’d gotten 220, 230 I suppose I would have been a bit more comfortable, but we were four for 30, so I was thinking anything over 170 would have been nice.
“My aim at the end of the start of the day was just to bat the 75 (overs) and where we finish, we finish. To get 200 on the board was really positive.”
The Cobras stuck at it, though, with Corey Walter snaring 3/54 from 23 overs, left-arm spinner Stan Grazotis took 1/34 from 21, quick Zac Muir was tidy with 0/27 from 13 and spinner Jacob Gasior took some stick late, but still managed two wickets.
“We probably let them get 20 or 30 too many,” Collendina skipper Corey Walter
said. “We were right on top earlier. We had a few run out chances, a few half-chances that you probably needed taking in grand finals. And sometimes that can be the difference between winning and losing.
“And I don’t think we bowled as well as what we probably had the couple of weeks leading in. Whether that’s the pressure of a grand final, I’m not sure.”
Collendina openers Gasior (21 from 39 balls) and Jude de Jong (21 from 78), who still plays Under 15s, thwarted Winch’s bid for early wickets.
At tea, the Cobras were 2/80 with wickets in hand. At 4/100 with the dangerous Walter and Grazotis dismissed, Richard Brown was still playing well, but when he fell to Murdoch’s left-arm spin for a well-made 48, the Cobras were 6/133
with overs running out.
“It’s one of those things where wickets in hand is always good at the end of the day, but as soon as you want to try and go, if you miss-hit here and there, you’re losing wickets and all of a sudden you’re four or five down with 90 to get,” Murdoch said.
“We didn’t start well with the ball. Probably the first 10 overs were pretty ordinary from us. But (it became) one wicket at a time. Getting the wickets of Corey and Stan were really big for us.”
Collendina needed someone to play a Murdoch-likeinningsandalthoughBrown fulfilled his role, nobody could push on.
“I think the start that we got off to, we gave ourselves a really good chance and set a good platform,” Walter said.
“Everyoneinourtopsevengottodouble figures, but we just didn’t have anyone get that 60 or 70, which probably would have got us over the line. We seemed to lose wickets at bad times and that’s, I guess, the pressure of chasing in a grand final. But, I was pretty proud of the guys. They never gave up and fought to the end.”
Jarrod Groves ended with 4/68 from 27/5 overs and Murdoch was an obvious choice for player of the match with 3/36 from 20. The Cobras were all out for 160 in the 67th over.
“We fielded really well,” Murdoch said.
“I think we only dropped two catches. When you bowl and field well you’re generally winning most games.”
Seagulls win two flags, Kookaburras and Sharks one each
By Justin Flynn
Barwon Heads claimed a second consecutive Bellarine Peninsula Cricket Association B1 Grade premiership with a 98-run victory against Ocean Grove at Armstrong Creek Sports Precinct on 21 and 22 March.
The Seagulls prevailed in last year’s decider against Jan Juc and were too good for the Grubbers after winning the toss and batting on day one.
Captain Rob Mackie and Jaxon Mallett (33) got the Heads off to a great start with a 101-run opening partnership, but Grove skipper Billy Foord-Engelsman got his side back into the contest with the next three wickets.
Mackie made a superb 89 from 134 deliveries and middle-order runs from Ande Santilli (30), Miller Moulton (50) and Jason Borg (40 from 45 balls) got the total up to 8/275 after 75 overs. FoordEngelsman produced a huge effort to take 7/65 from 26 overs.
Josh High struck with the fourth ball of the innings on day two and at 2/15, Ocean Grove needed a huge partnership.
Elijah Baran (45) and Ben Hanson (28) dug in, but the partnership never eventuated with Borg snaring 5/60 from 19 overs after also taking five-for in the semi-final. High took 3/16 and despite some late runs from Bailey LeMaistre (20), Ned Thorley (18) and Sam McGlynn (15 not out), the Grubbers were all out for 177.
INVERLEIGH has the B2 Grade premiership cup in its keeping with a 77run win against Surf Coast at Inverleigh Recreation Reserve.
Eoin Flett (48) and captain Leigh Heazlewood (46) got the Kookaburras to 8/198 off 60 overs while a late 30 from 38 balls from Paul Hageman proved vital.
Mathews Pularkalayil Mathew took his season’s wicket tally to 32 with another haul, this time taking 4/72 and Satvir Deol took 2/45 from 14 for the Suns.
On day two, four Surf Coast batters made at least 19, but Deol’s 22 was the top score as Matt Spiller wreaked havoc with the ball. Spiller took 6/39 from 16 overs to help dismiss the Suns for 121.
BARWON HEADS made it three flags for the season with an 84-run win against Barrabool at Armstrong Creek. Ben McCredden (46) and youngster Elliot Gill (54) rescued the Seagulls after some early trouble, but at 5/111 the Bulls were slightly on top. Murphy Moulton made a busy 35 and some last over hitting
from Sam O’Brien got the score up to a handy 8/221. Nelson Gnaccarini followed his semi-final performance of 5/69 from 30 overs with another big day, taking 4/53 from 18.
Wes Grigg (42), Henry Elliss (30) and Jamie Mulholland (19) got top-order runs for Barrabool, but seamer Chris McSween produced another bag of wickets for the Heads with 6/47 from 21 overs with the Bulls all out for 137.
JAN JUC inflicted Collendina’s second loss of the season to win the Divisional D
Grade premiership at Ray Menzies Oval, Ocean Grove. The two winners of the East and West divisions squared off with Jan Juc reaching 6/187 thanks to an unbeaten 92 from Mitch Colvin and contributions from Chris Huxtable (36) and Peter Macdonald (30) while Jye Hearps took 3/33 for the Cobras.
Todd Seidel-Davies (5/12) and James Kernot (2/21) then had Collendina reeling at 7/28 and the game was all but over. The Cobras all out for 51 in the 19th over.
Winchelsea won the A2 Grade premiership with a 38-run win against Collendina. (Mark Heenan Media)
Top left: Barwon Heads won the B1 Grade premiership.
(Barwon Heads Cricket Club)
Above: Inverleigh celebrated the B2 Grade flag. (Inverleigh Cricket Club)
Far left: Jan Juc was crowned D Grade premiers. (Jan Juc Cricket Club)
Left: Barwon Heads made it a club trifecta with the C Grade premiership.
(Barwon Heads Cricket Club)
Leopold into Div 2 finale despite Pottabathini heroics
Leopold won a GCA Division 2 preliminary final thriller that was almost taken away by a single-handed effort by star Bell Park all-rounder Nikhil Deep Pottabathini.
Leopold will meet Highton in the decider at South Barwon Reserve this weekend after winning its way through with a shrewd declaration on day one and withstood an onslaught from Pottabathini on day two.
Leopold was sent in to bat at Hamlyn Park andwaswellservedbyatimelymiddle-order knock by Sam Mitchell (50) while Jake Le Maistre(46),keeperJoeyVallelonga(39)and Henry Hatswell (24) made contributions.
A late-order 34 not out from Reece Plumridgetookthescoreto8/247andwitha draw good enough for Bell Park to advance, Leopold skipper Tom Treble declared the innings closed. Panthers’ new-ball pair Mitch Trask and Tynan Kelly each took three wickets to keep the pressure on.
However, Sam Elliston-Buckley and Jamie Spiller made it to stumps relatively comfortably to have Bell Park in a good
position. On day two, Elliston-Buckley fell for 26 and Spiller was trapped in front by Dylan Barmby.
At 5/65, Leopold was on top, but while Pottabathini was there, it was always game on.
When Ben Horne dismissed Bailey Kelly for 11, Bell Park was 6/115, but Pottabathini was humming along and unperturbed by the loss of wickets. He brought up his century and continued to pound the attack.
At 7/222 and with Pottabathini on a magnificent 137 from 162 deliveries, he slashed at a Horne delivery and was caught behind by Vallelonga.
The Panthers then lost their final two wickets without a run being scored and were all out for 222 with Horne ripping through the tail and sending Leopold into the grand final.
WAURN Ponds Deakin has the chance to atone for its Division 3 qualifying final defeatatthehandsofMurghebolucwiththe two sides set to lock horns in the decider at
Mt Moriac Reserve.
The Eagles won a cliffhanger against Lethbridge with the game decided by the last batting pair on day two.
Veteran seamer Dhanuja Haturusingha was the hero on day one for WPD. Still bowling beautifully in his mid-40s, Haturusingha asked all the right questions with his unnerving accuracy and finished with 7/41 from almost 16 overs as the Rosellas were all out for 129 and got there thanks to a fine 55 from Matthew Thomas.
WPD had contributions throughout its run chase, but couldn’t find anyone to get past Jonathon Thomson’s 22 as Spiller (3/17 from 21 overs) and skipper Shane Dillon (3/31 from 17) proved difficult to score from.
At 9/127, a tie was good enough for the Eagles with their higher ladder position, but that was still two precious runs away.
Tom Carroll and Jeremy Swan kept their composure and a single from Swan and then another run in the next over tied the scores.Thepairscamperedthroughforaleg
Record up for grabs
By Justin Flynn
North Geelong is aiming to overtake Newtown & Chilwell for the most consecutive Geelong Cricket Association Division 1 premierships when it meets East Belmont at Reynolds Oval, South Barwon Reserve this weekend.
The Magpies’ run of six flags in a row equals Newtown & Chilwell’s record from 1978 to 1984.
And North Geelong is favourite to make it seventh with the advantage of being able to draw the match due to finishing the season as minor premiers.
Captain Tom Mathieson said the lure of creating history and winning seven straight premierships wasn’t a driving force for his side, preferring to concentrate on this weekend first.
“It hasn’t really been spoken about throughout the year,” he said.
“There have been whispers about it here andtherenowthatwe’rein,butIdon’tthink we’ll really even speak about that before the game. It’s more about just winning this one. We’ve had quite a few unavailabilities all year, so get to where we are right now, we’re pretty happy with it.”
Mathiesonsaidtherewasplentyofrespect for East Belmont.
“It’sclearasdaytheirbattingatthetopsix is a huge strength of theirs,” he said.
“If you look at probably the last month of cricket, they’ve all kind of made big scores in different games.
“They’ve got a few key bowlers with Dylan (Moroney) and Jenko (Jack Jenkins) where, if they strike early, they can get on top of you and make it hard for the middle order.”
North Geelong has the most rounded bowling attack in the comp with pace coming from Dale Kerr, Angus Cranny and Mathieson and then three front-line spinnersinBaileySykes,VictorMorrowand Alistair McCann to call upon.
“We’re pretty lucky that we’ve got Gussy (Cranny) and Daisy (Kerr), who usually get us off to a good start, and from then it’s me and the spinners doing our job,” Mathieson said. “There’s no real part-time bowler that we always use. It’s always the five or six key bowlersthatknowwhattodoandwhattheir job is.”
East Belmont captain Dylan Moroney knows the odds are stacked against his side.
“You’ve just got to keep playing attacking cricket all day with the way the rules are set up,” he said.
“It rewards the team that’s been better all year and that was probably North Geelong,
so they’ve got every right to have the extra advantage, but it just means it’s really clear for us that we have to take 10 tickets to win.
“So we’ll set up our game around that and we’ve got to keep attacking across the two days basically.”
New-ball pair Moroney and Jack Jenkins will need to make earlier inroads than what they did in the qualifying final when North Geelong compiled a mammoth 9/404.
“Where we kind of went wrong in that qualifying final (was that) we allowed them to get themselves set and then at none for 100 you’re in a pretty controlling position from there. So obviously early wickets will be the key.”
East’s batting line-up is in serious form.
Shane McNamara is coming off a century in the prelim and has made 738 runs while fellow opener Sean O’Neill has made 394 runs.JamesLidgetthas528runsatNo3and Luke Inglis has compiled 677 runs.
Hayden McMahon has been consistent without getting that really big score and Lachlan Inglis has made 440 runs in the middle order. Devon Winsall has made 412 runs across the 1st and 2nd XIs.
“All our top six and even seven with Dev, they’ve all contributed really well throughout the year,” Moroney said. “We’re notrelyingononeortwoofthem.Iampretty confident that on their day all six and seven will be strong contributors to our team.”
Lachlan Molyneux provides variety with his off-spin.
“Probably the last three or four weeks beforefinals,he’shadtodoalotofbowling,”
Moroney said.
“He probably didn’t quite get the reward he deserved, but it was nice on Sunday to get those five because I thought he bowled really well. He’s pretty crucial now (in) how we want to set ourselves up for him to hold up an end and bowl a lot of overs.”
Moroney knows the strength of a North Geelong side.
“They set themselves up really well with the way they bowl and how they manage their three spinners throughout the day. So just staying patient and not giving in to what they’re trying to do is the main thing. They’ve shown throughout the year that the way they set themselves up with the ball has been really successful. So we’ve got to counteract that and then batting time is probably the crucial thing.”
Saturday 28 March & Sunday 29 March, 11am
Division 1: North Geelong vs East Belmont at Reynolds Oval, South Barwon Reserve, Belmont
Division 2: Highton vs Leopold at Lawn Addicts Oval, South Barwon Reserve, Belmont
Division 3: Murgheboluc vs Waurn
Ponds Deakin at Mt Moriac Reserve
Saturday 28 March, 11am
Division 4: Little River vs Newcomb & District at Bisinella Oval, Lara
bye off the third ball of the 73rd over to give the Eagles the win.
NEWCOMB & District chased down a decent target to defeat Meredith and earn a Division 4 grand final against Little River at Lara.
Meredith set a target of 213 for victory after consistent skipper Tyler Dittloff made 70 and Harli Givvens made a typically punishing 39 from just 34 balls. Jai Harvey’s 33 from 40 balls got the Rams up to 9/212 despite some good bowling from left-arm slowie Daniel Harrison, who took 3/37. Needing to score at 4.5 runs an over the Dinos were 2/25, but Anthony Quarrell was hitting them well and was joined by Blake Ritchie. Together they added 126 at more thanarunaballwithQuarrelldepartingfor 80 from 72 balls while Ritchie’s 45-ball stay yielded 59.
At 7/197, Lethbridge wasn’t giving up, especially Givvens, who took 4/40, but the Dinos won to spare to set up a grand final against the Redbacks.
Weigl and Ford share Sing Medal
Lara star Daniel Weigl and St Peters run machine Luke Ford shared the Jack Sing Medal for the Geelong Cricket Association Division 1 best player.
The award was initially ‘won’ by Weigl on the night, but GCA officials became aware of an error and it was found that Ford also polled 14 votes.
“The Geelong Cricket Association has become aware of an issue within the Officials HQ system that resulted in an error in the awarding of the Jack Sing Medal last night for the 2025/26 cricketeroftheyearintheGCA1Men’s competition,” it said in a statement.
“At the GCA presentation night, Lara’s Daniel Weigl was announced as the sole winner of the medal with 14 votes. It has since been identified that St Peters captain Luke Ford also polled 14 votes and should have been recognised as a co-winner of the award.
“We have contacted Luke, Daniel, and the St Peters and Lara cricket clubs to clarify the matter. Luke Ford will also be awarded a Jack Sing Medal for the 2025/26 season, and we congratulate him on an outstanding year.Asuitablepresentationceremony will be arranged for Luke.
“The GCA apologises to Luke and the St Peters Cricket Club for this error.”
Weigl made 489 runs at an average of 54.33 with two hundreds and took eight wickets. Ford blasted 690 runs in the home and away season at an average of 86.25 and made three tons and took 16 wickets.
Bell Park magician Nikhil Deep Pottabathini won the Division 2 Barry McMahon Medal after making 740 runs at an average of 74.00 and was also a key contributor to the GCA’s Melbourne Country Week success. He made a magnificent 137 on Sunday in Bell Park’s losing preliminary final and also took 23 wickets.
Lethbridge all-rounder Hayden Spiller took home the Division 3 Jan Nowicki Medal after snaring 23 wickets and smashing 674 runs at 56.16. Meredith captain Tyler Dittloff won the inaugural Division 4 Brent Donaldson Medal after taking 30 wickets and making 748 runs at an average of 62.33.
Grand finals
North Geelong skipper Tom Mathieson, and East Belmont captain Dylan Moroney.
Perfect season for Seagulls
By Justin Flynn
As Barwon Heads kept winning, there were a few pundits that told captain/coach Daniel Donaldson that perhaps a loss somewhere towards the end of the home and away season wouldn’t be such a bad thing.
The wins kept ticking over to such an extent that going through the season unbeaten wasn’t just a possibility, but a probability.
And it culminated in the most perfect of ways on Sunday 22 March when the Seagulls defeated Queenscliff by seven wickets in the A1 Grade final at Barwon Heads Village Park.
“I had quite a few people sort of tap me on the shoulder throughout the season andsay‘youguysgottohavealossatsome point, I think it’s what’s needed’, including some people in the group,” Donaldson reflected post-game.
“And I said, ‘I don’t believe in that. We’re here to win games of cricket and we were able to keep doing that’.”
The opening over of the grand final didn’t go to script, though. Sema Kamea, who made a massive impact this season with his left-arm pace, sent down three no-balls and Donaldson dropped what he described as ‘an absolute sitter, which I should take 100 times out of 100’.
“My mind straight away ticked to ‘what have I done?’,” Donaldson said.
“Itwasaverydangerousbatsman(Lachie Kidd) that I dropped and I dropped him a couple of overs later and we put down nine chances yesterday.
“We pride ourselves on fielding so much and it was very hard to let go of that and I had some senior players encouraging me to let go of it and eventually I did it about 9.30am this morning.
“But it just shows the squad we have and that we’re able to bounce back and to rally ourselves to get back in the game and to keep Queenscliff to 160 when they were flying at the start.”
Donaldson not only recovered, but went on to snare a player-of-the-match 6/53 from 25 overs to have the Coutas all out for 160 with Hayden Illingworth (44) and Lochie Philp (33) making runs.
LewyHylandandMaxMelzerhavebeen the Seagulls’ yin and yang at the top of the order all season.
Hyland made 55 on day two off 57 balls and Melzer steeled himself to bat through with a superb 51 from 139 while Matt Bode made 41. Bode said after the game that it was his first ever premiership at any level of cricket.
Hyland’s 598 runs this season came at an average of 42.71 while Melzer’s 457 runs came at 45.70.
“I reckon it kind of makes my job very easy to just have to sit at the other end and just get Lewy on strike,” Melzer said.
“It simplifies it and it’s a bit of a blanket formetobehonest,havinghimscoreatthe other end. And I guess probably the thing that stands out the most, it was genuinely fun opening the batting with him all year.
“It’s always been a bit of a grind opening thebatting,butitwasgenuinelyfunsitting at the other end, watching Lewy hit them over the top.”
“I’ve never played with Maxy before and just the experience that he brings and I know that he can play his shots too, so it’s not all just on me,“ Hyland said.
“But I just know that Maxy’s going to sometimes hold up an end. “A lot of people always say, ‘it must be tough opening up the top’, but I think it’s the best place to bat because I get a free licence because I know that Maxy’s in there, Donald’s (Donaldson) coming in next, Jacko’s (Jacko Mallett) down the order, Bodie (Matt Bode) can bat.
“I think it releases the shackles a bit for metobeabletoplaythewayIliketo-really put the pressure back on the opposition.”
Queenscliff skipper Hayden Illingworth was classy in defeat and heaped praise on the opposition.
“I think we’ll be better off for the experience,” he said.
“I think we’ve accepted that we were just beaten comprehensively by a better team this weekend. We’ve got enough to work with going forward. I think everyone just needs to improve another five percent.
“When it got really tough yesterday, they were just that little bit better. And then today they were willing to do the hard things with the bat and get through tricky periods and that’s what good teams do.”
The Coutas have a relatively young side and there is no reason they can’t be back on the big stage next season.
“I think those young guys will figure out fromtodaywheretheyneedtobenextyear and the years coming,” Illingworth said.
“Barwon Heads have got a lot of guys that have been there, done that before. TalkingtoSamSchaller,he’ssixfromeight premierships and he just knows how to perform in big games.
“So take a leaf out of their book and look athowtheygoaboutitinbiggamesandwe can definitely learn from that and hope to use it going forward.
“Round 4 onwards, I think, certainly in two-day cricket, we’ve been close to the equal best team in the comp with Barwon Heads. Our two-day form has been fantastic.
“But momentum’s a funny thing in any sport. Once you get it, you feel like you’re just going to roll on and win every week. So we had that feeling in the back half of the year, or the back sort of two-thirds of the year, and it was a good feeling to have within the group.”
Schaller has now played in six A Grade premierships and Mallett four.
There was a genuine family connection at the club with cousins Lewy and Harry Hyland (A1 Grade), brothers Brad and Darren Fleet (C Grade), father and son Matt and Josh High (B1 Grade), father and son Jacko (A1 Grade) and Jaxon Mallett (B1 grade), father and son Rob (B1 Grade) and Angus Mackie (A1 Grade) and brothers Miller (B1 Grade) and Murphy Moulton (C Grade) all played in premierships this weekend for the Heads.
“I think it shows the depth of the club,” Donaldson said.
“I always talk about it’s not just the 11 on the field, it’s all the volunteers behind the scenes. You know, Yatesy (Steven Yates) the president does not stop. I’m actually pretty certain he sleeps at the cricket club.
“Ande Santilli, Al Thompson, Cam Don, Molly Moulton - they all do not stop, so they’re really the ones that we should be celebrating, but very excited for the other two teams to get back here and celebrate.”
GRAND FINAL
Saturday 21 March & Sunday 22 March
A1 Grade at RT Fuller Oval, Barwon Heads
Queenscliff won the toss and batted
L. Kidd b Hewitt 10 (41)
L. Philp c Melzer b Schaller 33 (101)
F. Mileto run out (Kamea/Schaller) 19 (63)
K. Leathem lbw Donaldson 14 (21)
H. Illingworth c Don b Donaldson 44 (114)
B. Thom b Donaldson 3 (18)
M. Minney c&b Donaldson 8 (32)
T. Bakker lbw Donaldson 0 (9)
J. Monahan c Hewitt b Schaller 7 (32)
T. Kidd lbw Donaldson 2 (6)
L. Adam not out 2 (26)
Sundries 19
All out for 160 (75 overs)
Fall: 38 (L. Kidd), 75 (Mileto), 83 (Philp), 94 (Leathem), 98 (Thom), 117 (Minney), 117 (Bakker), 134 (Monahan), 147 (T. Kidd)
Bowling (overs, maidens, wickets, runs)
S. Kamea 7-0-0-26
D. Hewitt 11-3-1-29
S. Schaller 22-8-2-27
D. Donaldson 25-5-6-53
A. Mackie 10-3-0-20
Barwon Heads
L. Hyland b Adam 55 (57)
M. Melzer b Mileto 51 (139)
M. Bode c b Monahan 41 (85)
D. Donaldson not out 1 (10)
A. Mackie not out 8 (5)
Sundries 8
Three wickets for 164 (49 overs) Fall: 74 (Hyland), 146 (Melzer), 156 (Bode).
Bowling J. Monahan 16-5-1-54 T. Kidd 15-3-0-42 L. Adam 11-2-1-39 L. Philp 4-0-0-21 F. Mileto 3-1-1-2
Barwon Heads claimed the BPCA A1 Grade premiership. (Barwon Heads Cricket Club)
Good mates Sam Schaller and Lewy Hyland. (Justin Flynn)
Scoreboard
