Geelong Indy - 19th September 2025

GDFNL foes ready to play

The Bellarine Football Netball League season is done and dusted and the focus now turns to the Geelong & District Football Netball League deciders.

In the senior footy, can North Geelong continue its fairytale run at a premiership or will East Geelong put its finals demons to rest?

Perennial grand finalists Thomson will go in as favourites in the A Grade netball, but Belmont Lions has a point to prove after a second-semi final thrashing at the hands of the Tigers.

The action will be at St Albans Reserve on Saturday September 13 and begins at 8am with the 13 & Under netball grand final with the footy to kick off at 9.30am with the Under 18 Division 3 decider.

The forecast is not great with a top temperature of 14 degrees with a high chance of showers, with possible small hail during the morning.

 See page 35 for match previews and details.

RSPCA’s pet plea

By Jena Carr

Greater Geelong has the highest number of animal cruelty reports across the state’s local government areas (LGAs), according tothelatestRSPCAVictoriadata.

The 2024/2025 Animal Cruelty Data released on September 11 found 560 total reports of animal cruelty across Greater Geelong last year, an increase of 13 reports from 547 during the 2023/2024 financial year.

The data also found that 56 animals were seized or surrendered in the LGA, 14 more animals than the previous year, with 42 seizuresorsurrendersin2023/2024.

Greater Geelong was the highest-ranked LGA for animal cruelty reports for the

fifth year in a row, but ranked 12th in the state for the number of animals seized or surrendered.

Teesdale’s Lennie Hart adopted his cat Christie, who he renamed to Lobster, from RSPCA Victoria last year after she was one of 28 cats and kittens seized from a Kilmore propertybyinspectorsin2023.

A 57-year-old man has since pleaded guilty to four charges of animal cruelty at Seymour Magistrates Court on January 16 after the animals were found living in poor conditionswithoutfoodorwater.

Mr Hart said he only found out about the now 12-year-old Lobster’s past a couple of weeksago,butthatshewasthebestcathe’d everhad.

“You just need to have patience with

adopted cats or cats with a past, especially if you don’t know much about that past,” he said.“WhenIgother,shelookedkindofsad and lonely, but she was physically alright, and now she likes to spend her time sitting next to me and just chilling within arm’s reach.

“My advice for anyone looking to get a cat is not to go through breeders and don’t just get the kittens; get an elderly cat as they’re prettyrelaxedanddeservecompanionship.”

RSPCA Victoria chief inspector Michelle Green said it was important that owners ensuredtheyhadthemeansandcapacityto carefortheiranimals.

“City of Greater Geelong, being one of Victoria’s largest provincial cities with a high population, has seen some of the

highest reports of cruelty reports made to theRSPCAoverthelastcoupleofyears,”she said.“Ourinspectorsareconcernedthatthe continued cost of living, climate (including drought conditions), and mental health of Victorians will continue to impact animal welfareacrossthestate.

“The three most common types of cruelty were husbandry (including grooming, farrier, shearing, living conditions, hygiene, and improper rugging of animals), underweight animals and insufficient food.”

Anyone concerned that an animal is suffering or not receiving proper care should contact RSPCA Victoria online at rspcavic.org/who-to-call or by calling 0302242222.

North Geelong captain Zac Schwennesen, East Geelong skipper John McIntyre, Belmont Lions co-captains Sophie Allison and Angelique Ross and Thomson captain Amelia Jarvis at St Albans Reserve on Monday ahead of the big day. (Ivan Kemp) 503310_15

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Plea to save green space

By Matt Hewson

A group of concerned residents will present a petition at the September council meetinginanattempttosaveacommunity space in Belmont.

Geelong council has proposed the sale of 5A Dean Street, a 200-metre-long strip of green land between Dean Street and High Street in Belmont that formerly contained a scout hall and a youth club hall. The City sought community feedback between June and July this year and is yet to report back to the council, but local residents have gathered 542 signatures opposing the sale.

Belmont local Bernice Davies, a member of the residents group behind the petition, said there were many reasons behind residents’ opposition to the sale including access, water absorption during heavy rains and parking. But crucially, the overwhelming sentiment of residents was that the land should remain a green space for the community.

“It’s been really interesting gathering signatures,becausepeoplehaveallsortsof visions (for the space),” Ms Davies said.

“Somepeoplewantacommunitygarden, some just want to chill out and meet their friends in a place that’s not a coffee shop.

Girls’ footy ready to kick off

By Jena Carr

Girls’ footy is coming to Whittington with free sport sessions available during the upcomingschoolholidays.

Whittington Neighbourhood House will holdfreeandall-inclusiveGirlsFootyClinics on the oval behind the neighbourhood house from September 20 to October 4 on SaturdaysandThursdaysfrom10am.

Program coordinator and facilitator Luke Howiesaidhelookedforwardtoseeingkids participatinginthefreeclinics.

“Anything that brings people together usually has a pretty significant impact in a place like Whittington and we’re really excitedforthat,”hesaid.

“Some girls are giving it a crack for the first time, and some are already pretty good footballers at a very young age who need an

outletandsomewherewheretheycanplay.

“If we want to grow women’s football, this is one of the ways you do it, by bringing women’s footy to girls in areas that maybe don’t always get the best access to girls footy.”

Mr Howie said it was important to keep buildingupwomen’sandgirls’sports.

“I reckon even as recently as ten years ago, women’s sport wasn’t as popular as it is now, and I think we just got to keep that momentumgoing,”hesaid.

“If you’re an Australian boy growing up, there’s absolutely no shortage anywhere of team ball sports for you to play, and it’s wonderful to see girls’ sports becoming moreprominent.”

Parents can contact Mr Howie at luke@ bllc.org.autoregistertheirchild’sinterestin participatingintheclinic.

“IfyoulookatBelmont,therearen’tmany green spaces. So because we have a history of this land being held by the community, thereisafeelingweshouldkeepitandhave it as a space for everyone.”

The site was one of three put forth by council as suitable for social housing in 2022, but of the 400 responses the City received from the community the majority opposed (8%) or strongly opposed (53%) that proposal.

That feedback also expressed a strong community preference for the land to be maintained as green space, potentially with a playground, community garden or

community building.

It is unclear whether council’s current proposal would see 5A Dean Street remain earmarked for social housing or simply sold to the highest bidder.

Geelong chief executive Ali Wastie said the City would “continue to consider suitable City-owned land which is identified as surplus for social housing”.

“Effective planning must always consider a range of perspectives, and our Social Housing Plan 2020-2041 commits us to considering suitable City-owned land for social housing where it makes sense to do so,” she said.

Program coordinator Luke Howie, Brooke Draper with her son Noah and centre manager Chantelle Hodgson. (Ivan Kemp) 503574_06

Centre makes a splash

Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre’s new pools are ready to make a splash as construction continues ahead of schedule.

The 25-metre pool, warm water program pool and in-built spa were filled and tested for leaks and structural integrity, with construction of the centre scheduled to be completed late next year.

Surf Coast Shire mayor Mike Bodsworth said he was glad to see the centre progress faster than initially expected and that the

project resulted from years of passionate community advocacy.

“I’m so excited to see the Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre shaping up and to get a feel for what a wonderful community asset it will be,” he said.

“We look forward to it becoming a much-loved destination bringing health and wellbeing benefits for people of all ages and abilities from across our shire.”

Member for Western Victoria Gayle

Cadets sailing to success

By Jena Carr

Two junior sailors have returned from the Czech Republic following their success in the Cadet World Championship.

Royal Geelong Yacht Club’s (RGYC) junior sailors Jack Benyan and Louis Davis in the international championship at the Czech Republic’s Lake Lipno from August 1 to 8, securing the third-place spot.

Jack, a 14-year-old from Jan Juc, said he was thrilled to make it as the top three sailing boats during the championship andthathefelthimandLouismadeagreat team.

“WewentverywellandIwasn’texpecting togetanywherenearthatthirdplacespot,” he said. “It was a pretty special experience and… I just love the freedom of sailing and beingabletochooseexactlywhathappens.

“Sailing in the Czech Republic is very different from here because of all of the mountains, it’s very hard to stay consistent

but i think that definitely helped us in the long run.”

Louis, a 10-year-old from Geelong West, said the championship was a great chance to race against 78 other boats from across eight countries.

“The championships were very fun and in a good location… and I couldn’t believe that we came third as it didn’t feel real,” he said. “Me and my grandma flew over there and my dad met me halfway through and because he’s a preffesional sailor, he gave us a couple of tips.

“What I liked about competing in the CzechRepublicwasthatitwasonalake,so it wasn’t salt water, which was nice as your nose gets itchy in the salt water.”

RGYC’s adult sailors Brendan Garner and Ben O’Brien also returned to Australia after competing in the Fireball World Championship in Italy from August 22 to 30, where they missed out on a podium spot but came in fourth place.

Tierney said the centre would give people of all ages a place to learn, exercise and connect thanks to the state government’s support.

“I’m proud to be part of a government investing in spaces that keep our communities active, connected and supported close to home,” she said.

“This milestone brings us another step closertoopeningthedoorsofaworld-class facility 15 minutes from Armstrong Creek, and families will be able to enjoy new

pools, a splash park, spa, sauna and more.

“It’s fantastic to see the Wurdi Baierr Aquatic and Recreation Centre taking shape, which is a project shaped by the community’s vision for a modern, accessible space that supports health and wellbeing.”

The centre is a partnership project with stage one funded by the federal and state governments, along with Surf Coast Shire Council, while the state government will fully fund stage two.

Louis Davis and Jack Benyan have had success in the Cadet World Championship. (Ivan Kemp)

More foster carers needed

A local organisation has installed a public display at Mount Duneed to highlight the need for more foster carers in the Geelong region.

Not-for-profit community service organisation Meli is raising awareness of the huge demand for local foster carers through the message, ‘Foster a Future’, composedofgiant,free-standingletters.

The message, located at the corner of the Surf Coast Highway and Armstrong Boulevard, also promotes Meli’s annual FosteraFutureAppeal.

The appeal, which has raised more than $120,000 over the past two years, raises

funds to support foster families and help Melirecruitmorefosterparents.

With Meli receiving an average of five referralsperweekofchildrenneedingcare, managerofCareServicesJoDumesnysaid the shortage of foster care homes made it difficulttosupportthosechildren.

“On any given night, there are children in need of a safe place to stay, and unfortunately, we don’t always have enoughhomesforthemtogoto,”shesaid.

The site of the new display is Villawood Properties’Armstrongdevelopment.

The issue of foster care is close to the heart of Villawood executive director Rory

Holiday surprises in nature

Barwon Heads community members can uncover the secrets of their environment during this year’s nature festival, with manyactivitiesavailable.

The Barwon Heads Nature Festival will run from Monday September 22 to Friday September 26, at Barwon Coast Discovery Centre,withaprogrampackedwithwalks, talks,rockpoolramblesandkids’activities.

Friends of the Bluff president Jon Duthie said the festival was in its third year and featured many activities for kids to participate in during the first week of schoolholidays.

“Barwon Heads, the wetlands, the estuary,theBluff,beachesanddunesareall in our backyard and they’re extraordinary placesfornature,”hesaid.

“I’ve been doing walks around the Bluff for a long time, and the number of times

localsturnupandgoforawalkaroundthe Bluffandthensaytome,‘Ididn’tknowany ofthat’,isreallyinteresting.

“The walks will finish up with questions and conversations about climate and environmental change... and it’s an opportunity to share some messages about the environment with the visiting community.”

Mr Duthie said the Barwon Heads environmentwas“fullofsurprises”.

“The idea of the festival is to help people connectandgetupcloseandintimatewith their local environment. Every time I look closely at the Barwon Heads environment, IgetsurprisedandseesomethingIhaven’t seen before. Everybody goes up to the Bluff and looks at the view and then miss the thousands of plants and animals that makeupthatview.”

Costelloe, who grew up alongside foster children.

“My parents, Tess and John, had five children of their own, and also fostered others,”hesaid.

“Weoftenhadchildrenfromorphanages stay with us, including some who had disabilities, as Mum taught in a special school.

“I understand there’s a real need today to find places for children in difficult circumstances.Melineedssuitablepeople to step up and help children and young people…justasmyparentsdid.”

Meli chief executive Robyn Hayles

welcomed Villawood’s support for the Foster a Future Appeal, which runs from September12to20.

She said funds raised during the campaign would be used to recruit, train and retain foster carers, as well as provide support and recreational activities for childrenandyoungpeople.

“We urgently need more foster carers – whether you’re a couple, a family, or an individual,youcanmakeadifference,”Ms Haylessaid.

Visit meli.org.au/fosterafuture for more information on Meli’s fundraising campaign.

Ayla and Mila are feeling excited for the Barwon Heads Nature Festival. (Ivan Kemp) 503511_02

Surprise flash mob

By Matt Hewson

Geelong’s newest singing group made a splash last weekend with a pop-up flash mob performance at Highton Village on Saturday morning.

Geelong Choir, a community choir that began meeting in Newtown in May this year, held its first performance at the popular shopping location, singing three songs in a 15-minute set and drawing dozens of listeners.

Singing teacher Melanie de Sousa, who founded the choir with fellow vocal coach

Laura Chadwick, said everyone involved “really had a ball”.

“We were really rapt with the whole day,” she said. “We just appeared, flash mob style, where one person starts singing, then three people join in, then a few more. By the time we got to the chorus of the first song… you could see people wondering what on earth was going on.

“But as we went through the three songs, the crowd increased… people were standingoutsideshopsoneithersideofthe road and the crowd in the centre section was full all the way across.”

Ms de Sousa said she was “absolutely delighted” to have realised a long-time goal.

“Laura and I discovered we had a similar dream… and we decided to put our skills together and create a space where people felt very much a sense of community,” she said. “It’s also very much focused on the singing side of things, learning (new skills) and growth… developing (people’s) voice, theirconfidenceandgivingthemasenseof achievement.”

Visit geelongchoir.com.au for more information on joining Geelong Choir.

EPA issues fines for burning waste

Environment Protection Authority (EPA) Victoria has handed out more than $10,000 in fines in the past month for illegally burning waste, including a North Geelong company. Bin hire and waste recycling company NC Waste Management Pty Ltd received a $2035 fine for illegally burningconstructionanddemolition waste in the first week of September.

EPA South West regional manager Martha-Rose Loughnane said burning waste polluted the air with smoke and contaminated soil and waterways.

“If you have accumulated combustible material and it can’t be recycled, you must take it to an EPA-licensed facility,” she said.

“Thistimeofyear,wealwaysreceive more reports of burning because of winter stockpiling of waste and the impending summer fire restrictions.”

Ms Loughnane said fines and clean-up costs after an illegal burn could be far more than the price of a proper disposal.

“If we attend a site where you’ve added waste to the fire, you can expect a fine and potentially, a requirement to clean up if the fire has contaminated the surrounding environment,” she said.

“Having a permit to burn green waste does not permit you to burn construction and demolition waste, which can be full of chemically treated materials that give off toxic smoke when added to a fire.”

Geelong Choir was in full voice at Highton Village. (Ivan Kemp) 502962_09

Learning milestone

Barwon Heads Primary School (BHPS) will commemorate its 150th year with a special celebration this weekend.

The school will mark the significant milestone with its 150th Anniversary CommunityDaythisSaturday,September 20 from 10am to 2pm at the BHPS gym, with all community members invited to come along.

The event will feature the exhibition A Walk Through Time, which will display photos and memorabilia from throughout the school’s century and a half of operation, and a student exhibition inspired by Geelong’s beachside bollards.

The works of locals including artists Chris Stirk, Kay Drew and BJ O’Toole, photographer Steve Arklay will also be on display, with a bake stall, barbecue and coffee van also on hand.

Principal Rob Bennetts said the community day was an opportunity to reflect on the school’s past while showcasing the creativity of its current students.

“Reaching 150 years is a remarkable milestone and it’s been wonderful to see our children embrace the celebrations,” he said.

“They’ve worked so hard to prepare displays and projects for the community day, and I know the community will really enjoy seeing the results.”

First opened as a single-room school in Connewarre, BHPS now provides education for between 400 and 500 students every year.

Mr Bennetts said the anniversary demonstrated the strength of the school’s connection with the Barwon Heads community.

“Barwon Heads Primary School has always been more than classrooms and buildings; it’s been part of the fabric of this town.,” he said.

“We hope the whole community

including past students, teachers and anyone who’s had anything to do with the school over the years will join us,” he said. Entry is $5.

Barwon Heads Primary School students celebrate the school’s 150th anniversary. (Supplied)

Cottage funding refused

Thestategovernmenthsrefusedtofundthe restoration of the historic 1860s Marshall Bluestone Cottage after it was dismantled to make way for the Barwon Heads Road duplication.

City of Greater Geelong wrote to state government in March requesting it to rebuildthemuch-lovedcottage.

State government’s Major Road Projects Victoria (MRPV) dismantled the cottage in 2021 following a community campaign and independent feasibility study to save the building for future generations. MRPV stored the salvageable materials ready for

future restoration at the nearby Marshall Reserve (also known as JF Field Memorial Park).

But Minister for Transport Infrastructure Gabrielle Williams wrote back to the City refusing funding, stating “the reconstruction of the cottage is outside the scope of the upgrade”. The minister also indicated that MRPV would cease storing thematerials.

“The community fought to preserve this importantcottageandnowthegovernment has told them that it wants to walk away fromit.It’snotgoodenough,”CityofGreater

Connecting with dads IRL

Dads can come together for an afternoon ofsocialgaminginGeelongtohelpcombat isolationandfosterconnectionswithinthe community.

Mental health charity DadLAN will launchtheGeelongsubnetwithafreedad’s social group event at Hamlyn Heights’ Vines Road Community Centre on Sunday, September 21, from 1pm to 5pm.

Volunteer coordinator Tim Johns said the social gaming event would run each month to help fathers connect with others within their community.

“People either bring along a computer or use one that we’re able to lend them and we set up a network to play networked computer games against each other,” he said. “Even though we gather and play computer games together, which you can do from the quiet of your own home, we emphasise in-person gathering with local

people.

“It’s very easy to be disconnected and to go about your life not knowing your neighbours, so with loneliness at all-time highs, these opportunities exist to give people the opportunity to connect.”

MrJohnsisthefatherofaneight-year-old son and said he was looking forward to meeting with other dads to play computer games together.

“Loneliness and men’s mental health can be a hidden problem because stereotypically it’s not something that’s spoken about, but it’s a very important issue,” he said. “I’ve had to actively work onmakingandkeepingconnectionsasI’ve become a parent and gone through life, which coincided with the pandemic and the changes to society that it brought.”

Contact Mr Johns at tim.johns@me.com

GeelongMayorStretchKonteljsaid.

“The cottage was removed by the Victorian government with the clear community understanding that it would be reconstructedatanotherlocation.Theyneed to follow through on that. We will continue to advocate on behalf of the community for the cottage’s restoration and hope to work positively with state government to find a solutiontofundtherestoration.Iwouldalso like to know if the local Member for South Barwon Darren Cheeseman plans to fight forhiscommunity.”

CityofGreaterGeelongchiefexecutiveAli

Wastiewrotebacktotheministerrecently.

“The City advocated on behalf of our communitytoensurethatthecottagecould be relocated and rebuilt in the future by the Victoriangovernment,”MsWastiewrote.

“The City has demonstrated its commitment to the project by providing landproximatetoitsoriginallocationforthe Victoriangovernmenttorebuildthecottage in line with community expectation. The rebuild should be part of the scope of the Stage 2 works and I ask you to confirm your commitmenttothefutureofthecottageasa matterofurgency.”

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Focus on Education

GBC a unique and independent college for all students

Geelong Baptist College (GBC) is a unique and independent college with an open enrolment policy.

Familiesareinvitedtomeettheprincipals and tour the grounds year-round.

Enrolments for the 2026 academic year are well underway and we invite students to join a community that is committed to academic excellence, personal development and spiritual growth. GBC offers classes from Foundation to Year 12.

Established in 2002, GBC is a young and vibrant school, located in a lovely semi-rural setting, only 10km from the centre of Geelong. The school has six college buses, which service most of Geelong and surrounding areas such as Point Cook.

GBC’s dedicated team of educators are passionate about inspiring a love for learning and equipping students with the knowledge, skills, and values they need to thriveinanever-changingworld.Teachers create an atmosphere where students feel valued, supported, and challenged to reach their full potential.

From the classroom to the sports field, from the stage to community service projects, students are encouraged to pursue their interests, challenge themselves, and make a positive impact in the world around them. The school is established on Christian values with a community that works together assisting students to pursue academic excellence.

GBC also offers a semester-long program whichcaterstotheneedsofYear9students in developing their whole person. Inthefirstterm,thefocusoftheprogram is to ‘unpack’ who they are as individuals discussing topics such as trust, personality

types, resilience and growth mindset, team building, healthy relationships, values, purpose and destiny, self-esteem, goal setting and physical challenges.

In the second term, the program focuses on ‘Making a Difference’ where students are challenged to make a difference in their local community. The topics covered

during this experience are community, creative thinking, and being an Entrepreneur. Students attend camps, and partake in entrepreneurial projects along with a myriad of physical activities.

Whether you’re entering primary school, transitioning to secondary education, or seeking a supportive environment for

your senior years, Geelong Baptist College offers a range of programs tailored to meet the needs of students at every stage of their educational journey.

We invite families to discover the difference a Geelong Baptist College education can make in the lives of their

Established in 2002, Geelong Baptist College is a young and vibrant school. (Pictures: Supplied)

Keep kids busy and get creative as the weather warms

School holidays are an excellent opportunity for children to recharge, exploretheirinterests,andhavefunoutside oftheclassroom.Whetherit’sashortbreak or an extended vacation, parents and guardians often seek engaging activities to keep their kids occupied and stimulated during these breaks. In this article, we’ll explore some exciting school holiday activities that provide a mix of learning, creativity, and outdoor adventure.

Museum Visits

A visit to a local museum can be both entertaining and educational. Many museums offer interactive exhibits and workshops tailored to children’s interests. It’s a great way to introduce them to history, science, art, and culture in a fun and engaging manner.

Nature Exploration: Exploring the great outdoors can be a transformative experience for kids. Hiking, camping, and nature walks not only encourage physical activity but also foster a deep appreciation for the environment. Consider family outings to national parks or local nature reserves.

CreativeWorkshops: Enrolling your child in creative workshops such as painting, pottery, or theatre can be a great way to nurture their artistic talents. These classes encourage self-expression and boost creativity while honing specific skills.

Reading Challenges: Reading is a fundamental skill that should be nurtured year-round. During school holidays, set

up a reading challenge with rewards for completing a certain number of books. It’s a fantastic way to foster a love for reading and improve literacy.

Cooking and Baking: Cooking and baking activities can be both educational and delicious. Involve your kids in the kitchen, teaching them the basics of meal preparation and baking. It’s an excellent opportunity to impart valuable life skills.

Sports and Physical Activities: Physical activity is crucial for a child’s overall

development. Encourage participation in sports like soccer, swimming, or dance classes.Theseactivitiespromoteteamwork, discipline, and a healthy lifestyle.

Volunteer Work: Engaging in volunteer work during school holidays teaches children the importance of giving back to the community. It can be as simple as helping at a local food bank, participating in a beach cleanup, or visiting senior citizens in a nursing home.

STEM Projects: For kids interested in

science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), school holidays are an excellent time to engage in hands-on projects. Build robots, conduct chemistry experiments, or explore coding through fun online platforms.

Travel and Cultural Experiences: If possible, consider planning a family trip during school holidays. Travelling exposes children to different cultures, languages, and historical landmarks. It broadens their horizons and provides valuable life experiences.

Adventure awaits these school holidays at Portsea

From September 29 to October 3, kids aged 8 to 12 a]re invited to join us at The Portsea Camp’s Adventure Camp –five unforgettable days of outdoor fun, friendship, and personal growth.

From high-energy activities like kayaking and the giant swing to moments of connection in nature, it’s the perfect chance for children to build confidence, resilience, and memories that last a lifetime.

Families can choose from one-, three-, or five-day camp options, with all meals, activities and accommodation included.

We know the journey to camp can sometimes feel like the hardest part, especially with transport costs such as the ferry. That’s why we’re committed to

removing barriers wherever possible. Through our Making a Difference Scholarships, part and full placements are available to families who may otherwise miss out. These scholarships are made possible thanks to a unique blendofcommunityfundraising,business partnerships, and family contributions. We believe every child deserves the opportunity to experience the magic of camp.Ifcostortransportisaconcern,let’s chat – we’re here to help.

Spaces are limited and always fill quickly, so book today to secure your child’s spot. Visit theportseacamp.com.au/event/812-years-september-adventure-camp/ or contact Damon on (03) 5984 2680.

There’s plenty to do these school holidays. (Shutterstock)

Memories for a lifetime at The Portsea Camp’s Adventure Camp. (Supplied)

SCHOOL HOLIDAY

Balyang Dental’s free kids’ check-up day for healthy smiles

Balyang Dental is excited to invite local families to a special community eventa Free Dental Check-Up Day for children aged 2 to 18 years on Sunday, September 295.

Timed perfectly for the school holidays, this initiative is designed to promote good oral health in young people and to help families build positive attitudes toward dental care, all in a fun and welcoming environment.

Why dental check-ups matter for kids Healthysmilesbegininchildhood.Regular dental visits are essential to ensure that teeth and gums develop properly. They also allow dentists to identify and treat issues such as early decay, gum concerns, or bite alignment problems before they become more serious.

These visits also build comfort and familiarity. Positive early dental experiences reduce anxiety and create lifelong confidence in seeking care. At Balyang Dental, we believe that investing in children’s oral health now sets the foundationforalifetimeofstrong,confident smiles.

More than a check-up

This free event is about more than just a quick look at teeth. Families can also receive orthodontic advice, giving parents peace of mind about whether their child may need braces or other treatments in the future.

The day will feature:

• Free professional dental check-ups for kids aged 2–18

• Orthodontic advice from experienced dental professionals

• Funkids’activities tomaketheexperience enjoyable

• Exciting giveaways to take home

By blending professional care with play, Balyang Dental hopes to show children thatvisitingthedentistcanbebothfunand rewarding.

Supporting families, removing barriers

The cost of dental visits can sometimes prevent families from accessing regular

Balyang Dental is helping remove financial barriers, making it easier for parents to get advice and care for their children. (Supplied)

care. By offering this free event, Balyang Dentalishelpingremovefinancialbarriers, making it easier for parents to get advice and care for their children. Whether it’s your child’s very first dental visit or a routine check, this event is a chance to gain valuable insights into their oral health without added stress.

Spots are limited and available by appointment only. Don’t miss this chance to take a proactive step toward your child’s oral health. Join us at Balyang

Balyang Dental

Dentalon September 29foradaydedicated to fun, family, and healthy smiles. With limited appointments available, we encourage families to book early to secure their place.

Date: Sunday, September 29 (during school holidays)

Venue: Balyang Dental, 122 West Fyans Street, Newtown Who’s it for?: Children aged 2 to 18 years, accompanied by their families

Savour saxophone sounds

If you have never heard a classical saxophonequartetbefore,you’renotalone.

The combination of four saxophones, each a different size, pitch and tone, is not a common feature of the classical music landscape.

This October, Geelong music lovers will get the chance to hear from one of Australia’s premier saxophone quartets when Windfire Festival presents AXES Quartet.

Local saxophonist Shannon Ebeling, who is one fourth of the internationally renownedsaxophoneensemble,saiditwas “atreat”tobeabletoperformwithAXESin his home town.

“People are used to hearing saxophone as a solo instrument, or a little feature here and there, but (the saxophone quartet) has a really proud tradition as a chamber

ensemble,”Ebelingsaid.“Itactuallyworks, I think, as one of the best combinations of sounds, akin to that of a string quartet.”

The AXES Quartet’s concert A

Harmonious Journey through Time will conclude the 16th annual Windfire Festival, which runs from October 3 to 12.

Presented by Music at the Basilica, the festival gives local audiences the opportunity to hear a diverse range of classical music, bringing together the very best musicians from Geelong and across the country.

This year’s musical feast includes Vox Angelica Geelong Chamber Choir, world class baroque flautist Greg Dikmans, string ensemble Trio Océanique and the Australian Boys Choir.

Ebeling, who grew up in Colac but has lived in Geelong for the last 14 years, said Windfire was an “outstanding” example of how “Geelong can really punch above its weight artistically”.

“People often think there’s not much

Rock poet of the people at Barwon Club

Perth-based songwriter Peter Bibby has always been something of an individual. His raw, honest style of storytelling is quintessentially Australian. The charmingly chaotic West Australian has beencalleda“punkpoet”,a“spokesperson for the working class of his generation” and, in his own words, “a bit of a f***ing nutbag”.

His music ranges from gritty punk-rock to lazy pop-rock reminiscent of Paul Kelly, with lyrics focusing on mundane experiences that connect to the existential themes of life and love.

Since releasing his debut album Butcher

/ Hairstylist / Beautician in 2014, most of Bibby’s music has been delivered both with a band and under the influence.

But this month Bibby comes to Geelong travelling solo and off the drink, wrapping up an east coast run of 14 shows.

“I stopped drinking alcohol about two years ago… I used to drink a lot to quell the nerves before I’d get on stage, and that would shoot me into this different persona,” he said.

“Then that sort of leaked into the rest of my life, and I realised I was becoming this person I didn’t really feel like was actually me.”

Playing solo is also both freeing and challenging, he said.

“When you’ve got a band you can just keep on going… say thank you, how ya going, then keep on rocking,” Bibby said.

“But I’m taking the opportunity to just play whatever I want, stuff from the whole catalogue.

“Firstandforemost,it’sjustajoy.Onthis tour particularly, I get to meet all these people who have been so affected by the music I make, which is a really special thing.”

PeterBibbyisatBarwonClubonSunday, September 28.

happening regionally, but Geelong has an amazing music scene, and Windfire has always brought a really wide range of performance styles and genres and musicians,” he said.

“There’s always something interesting - the average punter can always find something to engage with, be inspired by or have an emotional pull towards.

“And there’s something you get from live music performance that you just can’t get streaming or listening to in the background. Being there in the room as part of that moment is a really special experience that Windfire provides.”

AXES Quartet is at Basilica of St Mary of the Angels at 4pm on Sunday, October 12. Visit musicatthebasilica.org.au/ music-festival for tickets and the full program.

Perth singer-songwriter Peter Bibby finishes his 14-show tour in Geelong this month. (Supplied)

Geelong saxophonist Shannon Ebeling (front) performs with AXES Quartet at this year’s Windfire Festival. (Supplied)

The Guide

PICK OF THE WEEK

MYSTERY ROAD: ORIGIN

ABC TV, Sunday, 8.15pm

Mark Coles Smith has put his own masterful spin on the role of Detective Jay Swan since taking over from Aaron Pedersen, who originated the character MysteryRoadand its subsequent spin-offs. With an AACTA Award for Best Lead Actor and Gold Logie nomination in the bag for his efforts, Coles Smith returns to flesh out the steely cop’s back story in the second season of this captivating prequel series. Set six months after the debut instalment, during Easter in the year 2000, it follows Swan and his partner Mary (Tuuli Narkle) as they relocate to the timber town of Loch Iris, where a missing child and the suspicious death of an elderly nun promptly demand Swan’s attention.

PROFESSOR T

ABC TV, Friday, 8.30pm

Audiences are used to seeing Ben Miller (pictured) in eccentric and quirky roles, such as DI Richard Poole in the much-loved DeathInParadise and as problematic author Julian in the ABC sitcom Austin. So it has been refreshing to see the seasoned performer venture into darker territory as the brilliant yet complex criminologist Professor Jasper Tempest in this classy crime drama. In Friday’s season one finale “The Dutiful Child”, someone tries to knock off a billionaire businessman as he delivers a speech. When Professor T is called in to investigate, he soon links the attempted assassination to a simmering family feud. Meanwhile, Professor T’s birthday arrives, sparking a haunting childhood memory.

PARAMEDICS

Nine, Tuesday, 8.40pm

Friday, September 19

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

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 World’s Most Scenic River Journeys. (PGav, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 SBS50. 3.35 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 My Grandparents’ War. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

SEVEN (6, 7)

JOE LYCETT’S UNITED STATES OF BIRMINGHAM

SBS Viceland, Monday, 8.30pm

A proud resident of Birmingham, or “Brum” as it’s affectionately known, charming comedian and activist Joe Lycett (pictured) couldn’t help but notice that his hometown wasn’t the only one with its name. In an effort to put England’s second city back on the map, Lycett gets the blessing of the actual Lord Mayor of Birmingham to embark on an odyssey that attempts to unite the West Midlands metropolis with its 18 North American namesakes. From New Jersey to Saskatchewan and into the Deep South, Lycett delves into the culture and history of each Birmingham, aiming to get each to sign a formal “friendship agreement”. It all begins tonight on the East Coast of the United States.

NINE (8, 9) 6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News Mornings. 10.00 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (PG, R) 10.30 The Pacific. (R) 11.00 PNG: The Road To Independence. (PG, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 The Family Next Door. (Final, Ml, R) 1.55 Grand Designs Australia. (R) 2.50 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.20 Grand Designs. (R) 4.10 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Gardening Australia.

8.30 Professor T. (Final, Mav) An attempt is made on a billionaire’s life.

9.20 Hard Quiz. (PGs, R) Presented by Tom Gleeson.

9.50 Shaun Micallef’s Eve Of Destruction. (Final, PGl, R)

10.30 ABC Late News.

10.45 Austin. (Final, PG, R)

11.15 Silent Witness. (Ma, R)

12.15 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv) 5.00 Rage. (PG)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.35 Amazing Railway Adventures With Nick Knowles. (Ml, R) 8.25 Dictator: The Hitler Interviews. (M) 9.20 Lost Treasures Of Egypt: The Legend Of Cleopatra. (PGav) 10.15 SBS World News Late. 10.45 Athletics. World Championships. Day 7. Evening session. 11.20 Catch Me A Killer. (MA15+a) 12.15 Pray For Blood. (MA15+av, R) 2.05 Hugh’s Wild West. (R) 3.10 Expeditions With Patrick McMillan. (R) 4.10 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R) 4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Your Money & Your Life. (PG) 1.30 Border Security: International. (PG, R) 2.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R) 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 MOVIE: My Birthday Romance. (2020, PGa, R) Ali Cobrin, Jesse Hutch. 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. (PG, R)

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Football. AFL. First preliminary final. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews taking a look back at all the action from the game. 11.15 GetOn Extra. A look at the weekend’s best racing. 11.45 To Be Advised. 1.15 Riviera. (MA15+adlsv, R) The Clios family are questioned by police.

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Simon Reeve.

5.00 NBC Today.

7TWO (62, 72) SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 8.45 Andy’s Safari Adventures. 9.00 Play School. 9.50 Mixmups. 10.10 Daniel Tiger’s. 11.00 Sesame Street. 11.25 Wiggle. 11.55 Thomas And Friends. 2.15pm Thomas. 2.40 Pop Paper City. 3.00 Play School. 4.10 Andy’s Aquatic Adventures. 4.25 Mecha Builders. 5.20 Mojo Swoptops. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 7.30 Good Game Spawn Point. 7.50 Teen Titans Go! 8.05 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.30 MythBusters “There’s Your Problem!”. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 7.50 Motown Magic. 8.40 The Magic Canoe. 9.10 Spartakus. 10.00 Arctic Secrets. 11.00 Going Places. Noon MOVIE: Million Dollar Baby. (2004, M) 2.15 First Sounds. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.30 Nula. 6.00 Bamay. 6.40 Arctic Secrets. 7.30 Dreaming Big.

Rescue. 2.30 Weekender. 3.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Better Homes. 5.00 Escape To The Country. 6.00 Bargain Hunt. 7.00 Better Homes. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Bargain Hunt. 12.30am Escape To The Country. 1.30 Room For Improvement. 2.00 Harry’s Practice. 2.30 Animal Rescue. 3.00 Better Homes. 5.30 The Great Australian Doorstep.

7MATE (64, 73)

5.00[MELB] TippingPoint Australia.(PG,R) 5.30 WIN News.

6.00 9News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 To Be Advised. 10.30 Athletics. World Championships. Day 7. 11.30 Transplant. (MA15+m, R) Bash and Mags team up to save a John and Jane Doe found in the woods. Jane sees her old mentor in a new light.

12.30 Tipping Point. (PG, R) Hosted by Ben Shephard.

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) Jerry is involved in a helicopter crash.

4.30 Global Shop. (R) Home shopping.

5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)

9GEM (81, 92)

ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 8.30 Nanny. 9.30 Addams Family. 10.00 Bewitched. 10.30 Jeannie. 11.00 The West Wing. 12.10pm MOVIE: Sweet Rhythm. (2023, M) 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 Jeannie. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: Real Steel. (2011, M) 10.00 MOVIE: The Rooster. (2023, MA15+) Midnight Ghost Hunters. 1.00 Pretty Little Liars. 2.00 Supernatural. 4.00 Barbie: Dreamhouse Adventures. 4.30 Lego Dreamzzz. 4.50 Bubble’s Hotel. 5.10 Booba. 5.30 Pokémon. 6am Morning Programs. 9.00 NFL Tailgate. 10.00 NFL. NFL. Week 3. Buffalo Bills v Miami Dolphins. 1.30pm Nature Gone Wild. 2.30 Carnage. 3.30 STIHL Timbersports: Brayden Meyer Special. 4.00 Storage Wars: Barry’s Best Buys. 5.00 American Resto. 5.30 Storage Wars. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Pawn Stars. 7.30

First responders such as the brave paramedics featured in this gripping docuseries play a vital role in our community, effortlessly navigating life-or-death situations with their expert knowledge and calm demeanour. These dedicated medical professionals often work in dangerous and demanding environments to provide critical prehospital care for those in desperate need. In tonight’s instalment, after a heroic bystander uses CPR to bring a grandmother back from the dead, intensive care specialist Bill arrives to stabilise the distressed woman before she slips back into fatal cardiac arrest. Elsewhere, his colleagues Sally (pictured) and Olivia carefully examine a churchgoer who has whacked her head on a pew.

TEN (5, 10)

6.00 10 News+.

7.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (R) A couple must bring their house up to date.

8.30

10 COMEDY (52, 11)

6am Morning Programs. 9.05 Manganinnie. (1980, PGa) 10.45 O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000, Mv) 12.45pm While We’re Young. (2014, Mdl) 2.35 The Final Countdown. (1980, PGalv) 4.30 Welcome Home, Roxy Carmichael. (1990, PGalnsv) 6.20 The Battle Of The River Plate. (1956, PGa) 8.30 No Country For Old Men. (2007) 10.50 Crash. (1996, MA15+ansvw) 12.40am A Serious Man. (2009, Mdlsv) 2.45 On The Basis Of Sex. (2018, Ml) 4.55 The Final Countdown. (1980, PGalv)

Broncos. Replay.

9GO! (82, 93)

(53, 12)

Talk of the town: Mark Coles Smith as Detective Jay Swan.

Saturday, September 20

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

SEVEN (6, 7)

NINE (8, 9) 6.00 Rage Charts. (PG) 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. (PG) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 12.30 Beyond Paradise. (PG, R) 1.25 Professor T. (Final, Mav, R) 2.15 I, Jack Wright. (Ml, R) 3.00 The Larkins. (PG, R) 3.45 Julia Zemiro’s Home Delivery. (PG, R) 4.30 Would I Lie To You? (PG, R) 5.00 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (PG, R) 5.30 Landline. (R)

6.00 Australian Story: All Consuming

– Kate Reid. (R) Looks at Kate Reid.

6.30 Back Roads: Gippsland Lakes, Victoria. (R) Lisa Millar heads to Victoria’s Gippsland Lakes.

7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day.

7.30 Beyond Paradise. (PGa, R) An arsonist targets three businesses.

8.30 Midsomer Murders. (Final, Mav, R) DCI John Barnaby and DS Winter investigate when a body is found surrounded by ritual symbols.

10.00 The Family Next Door. (Final, Ml, R) Isabelle unravels the truth.

10.55 I, Jack Wright. (MA15+l, R) Sally’s legal challenge runs into trouble. 11.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

6am Morning Programs. 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Sailing. SailGP. Round 9. Highlights. 3.00 1998 FIFA World Cup: La Coupe De La Gloire. 4.35 Dylan Alcott: Peter Bol And Joseph Deng. (PG, R) 5.00 Grand Tours Of Scotland’s Rivers. (R) 5.35 WW2 End Game.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Swiss Alpine Rail Journeys: The Tenacious Davoser Railways.

8.30 A Royal Residence: Glamis Castle. (Premiere, PG) Looks at Glamis Castle.

9.25 Stanley Tucci: Searching For Italy: Puglia. (R) Stanley Tucci visits Puglia.

10.15 Great Australian Walks. (PG, R)

11.10 Homicide: Life On The Street. (Ma, R)

2.30 Secret Nazi Bases. (PGa, R) 4.10

J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R) 4.40 Bamay. (R) 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 3.55pm Odd Squad. 4.20 Millie Magnificent. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.30 Paddington. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.30 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 8.00 Kids BBQ Championship. 8.40 Chopped Jnr. 9.20 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.05 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22)

NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs. 12.15pm Ella. 1.45 Arctic Secrets. 2.35 Nula. 3.05 One Mind, One Heart. 4.30 Off Country. 5.00 Hunting Aotearoa. 6.00 Amplify. 6.40 The Other Side. 7.30 Alone Australia. 8.30 MOVIE: The Witches Of Eastwick. (1987, M) 10.35 MOVIE: Mama Africa. (2011, PG)

12.15am Learning On Country. 1.00 Philly DA. 2.00 Late Programs.

6am Morning

Programs. 1.30pm NHK Newsline. 1.45 CBC The National. 2.35 WorldWatch. 3.05 Bamay. 3.30 WorldWatch. 5.30 Signs For Change. 6.40 Athletics. World C’ships. Evening session. 11.30 Australia Come Fly With Me. 12.30am MOVIE: All The Beauty And The Bloodshed. (2022, MA15+) 2.50 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)

6am Morning Programs. 12.10pm Into The Darkness. (2020, Masv, Danish, Swedish, German) 2.55 The Movie Show. 3.30 RBG. (2018, PG) 5.20 The Great Escape. (1963, PGv) 8.30 Arsenal. (2017, MA15+adlv) 10.15 Nymphomaniac: Vol. II. (2013, MA15+alnsvw) 12.30am No Country For Old Men. (2007) 2.45 Late Programs.

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. Sydney Everest Carnival and Caulfield Underwood Stakes. 4.00 AFL Pre-Game Show. 4.30 Football. AFL. Second preliminary final.

8.00 Seven News. 9.00 MOVIE: Free Guy. (2021, Mlv, R) After a bank teller discovers that he is actually a non-playable character inside a brutal, open world video game, he begins to display an unexpected level of self-awareness. Ryan Reynolds, Jodie Comer, Taika Waititi.

11.20 MOVIE: Back To The Future Part III. (1990, PGlv, R) Marty McFly travels back in time to the Old West to rescue his mad-scientist friend. Michael J. Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Mary Steenburgen.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 It’s Academic. (R) Hosted by Simon Reeve. 5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Simon Reeve.

7TWO (62, 72)

6am Morning Programs. Noon Animal Rescue. 12.30 Better Homes. 2.00 The Yorkshire Vet. 3.00 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. 4.00 Horse Racing. Sydney Everest Carnival and Caulfield Underwood Stakes. 5.30 Animal Rescue. 6.00 Dog Patrol. 6.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 12.30am Late Programs.

7MATE (64, 73)

6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm Dipper’s Destinations. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Aussie Truckers. 3.00 Boating. Circuit Boat Drivers C’ship. Replay. 4.00 Deep Water Salvage. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars. 8.00 AFL Post-Game. 9.00 Pawn Stars. 10.00 American Pickers. 11.00 Air Crash Inv. Midnight Late Programs.

Sunday, September 21

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

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. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 2.30 David Attenborough’s Kingdom Of Plants. (R) 3.35 Grand Designs NZ. (PG, R) 4.25 Bill Bailey’s Wild West Australia. (PG, R) 5.10 Antiques Roadshow.

6.10 Britain’s Great Cathedrals. (Final)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 The Assembly: Richard Roxburgh. (Return, PG) The students interview Richard Roxburgh.

8.15 Mystery Road: Origin. (Return, Mal) Jay’s hopes of a new beginning are shattered.

9.10 I, Jack Wright. (Mal) As the court case draws near, a dramatic revelation threatens everything Sally holds dear.

9.55 Whiteley. (Mals, R) A look at the life of artist Brett Whiteley.

11.25 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (Ml, R) 11.55 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

3.00 Ask The Doctor. (R) 3.30 The Art Of... (Ml, R) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 Insiders. (R)

6am Children’s Programs. 3.45pm We’re Going On A Bear Hunt. 4.20 Millie Magnificent. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 Super Monsters. 6.30 Paddington. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.35 MOVIE: Billionaire Boy. (2016) 8.40 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.20 Abbott Elementary. 10.05 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 12.00 APAC Weekly. 12.30 PBS Washington Week. 12.55 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 1.00 Speedweek. 3.00 Gymnastics. FIG Artistic Gymnastics World Challenge Cup. Highlights. 4.00 Seven 7 Seven. (PGl) 4.30 Going Places. (PG, R) 5.30 WW2 End Game. (PG)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Princes In The Tower: A Damning Discovery. (PG) Looks at the mystery of two princes.

8.50 Queens Of Combat. (Premiere, PG) An international team uncovers evidence to restore the female gladiators of ancient Rome to their rightful place in history. 9.55 Black Gold. (Ml, R) Documents the climate crisis cover-up.

11.30 Stolen: Catching The Art Thieves: Oslo. (Ma, R) 2.50 Secret Nazi Bases. (PGa, R) 4.30 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 France 24 Feature. 5.30 APAC Weekly.

SBS VICELAND (31)

6am Morning

Programs. 3.20pm Bamay. 3.40 WorldWatch. 4.10 PBS Washington Week. 4.50 Curious Australia. 5.20 The Day The Rock Star Died. 5.50 Alone Sweden. 6.40 Athletics. World C’ships. Evening session. 11.50 Forbidden History. 12.45am Normal People. 1.40 MOVIE: The Big Squeeze. (2021, M) 2.50 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

6.00 Getaway. (PG, R) 6.30 A Current Affair. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. (PG) 12.00 Destination WA. (R) 12.30 My Way. (R) 12.40 Space Invaders. (PG, R) 1.40 The Block. (PGl, R) 4.30 The Garden Gurus. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Getaway. (PG)

6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 Rugby League. NRL. First semi-final. 9.45 NRL Finals Post-Match. A post-match NRL wrap-up of the first semi-final, with expert analysis and player interviews.

10.30 Athletics. World Championships. Day 8. 11.30 Law & Order: Organized Crime. (MA15+av, R) Pearl falls mysteriously ill.

12.30 Australia’s Top Ten Of Everything. (PG, R)

1.30 The Garden Gurus. (R)

2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PG)

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.

8.00 Innovation Nation. 8.20 Athletics. World C’ships. 1.30pm My Favorite Martian. 2.00 TBA. 2.30 MOVIE: Taras Bulba. (1962, PG) 5.00 MOVIE: What Did You Do In The War, Daddy? (1966, PG) 7.30 TBA. 8.30 Athletics. World C’ships. 10.30 TBA. 1am MOVIE: The Reptile. (1966, M) 3.00 MOVIE: On The Buses. (1971, PG) 4.50 The Baron.

9GO! (82, 93)

6am Morning Programs. 12.10pm Soccer. English Premier League. Arsenal v Nottingham Forest. Replay. 2.10 Premier League Stories. 3.20 Seinfeld. 3.50 Ski Rescue Down Under. 4.50 Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge. 5.50 MOVIE: Space Jam. (1996) 7.30 MOVIE: Turner & Hooch. (1989, PG) 9.35 MOVIE: Sully. (2016, M) 11.35 Late Programs.

TEN (5, 10)

6am Morning Programs. 12.00 The Brighter Side. (R) 12.30 Everyday Gourmet. (R) 1.00 The Yes Experiment. (R) 1.30

6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Dr Chris Brown. 7.40 Selling Houses Australia. After caring for an ill parent in their home, a couple look for a new start, while also battling a builder. 8.40 Ambulance Australia. (Maln, R) A crash results in a broken leg, but paramedics fear the patient may also have spinal cord injuries. 9.40 Gogglebox Australia. (R) TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows.

10.40 The Gilded Age. (PGa, R) The Russells take centre stage at a charity bazaar. 11.40 FBI: Most Wanted. (Mv, R) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.

(6, 7)

6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Behind Behani. (PGal, R) 12.30 Jabba’s Movies School Holiday Special. (PGav, R) 1.00 Football. AFL Women’s. Round 6. Melbourne v West Coast. 3.00 Football. AFL Women’s. Round 6. St Kilda v Richmond. 5.00 News. 5.30 Border Security. (PG, R)

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Voice. (PGl) Hosted by Sonia Kruger. 8.40 7NEWS Spotlight.

9.40 24 Hours In Police Custody: The Kane Line. (MA15+ad, R) Follows a police surveillance operation of a group who are believed to be planning the importation of drugs.

10.40 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous: The Predator –Leonard John Fraser. (MA15+av, R) 12.00 Miniseries: The Victim. (Malv, R)

1.15 Travel Oz. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

7TWO (62, 72)

6am Morning

6.00 Hello SA. (PG, R) 6.30 Find My Country House Australia. (R) 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 AFL Sunday Footy Show. (PG) 12.00 Wide World Of Sports. (PG) 1.00 Ski Rescue Down Under. (PGa, R)

2.00 Postcards. (PG)

2.30 Rugby League. NRL. Second semi-final.

6.00 9News Sunday.

7.00 The Block. (PGl) The teams are judged on their guest suites.

8.30 60 Minutes. Current affairs program, investigating, analysing and uncovering the issues affecting all Australians.

9.30 Athletics. World Championships. Day 9.

10.30 Footy Furnace. (Mlv) A look at the latest round of the AFL. 11.30 9News Late.

12.00 The Gulf. (Madlsv, R)

1.00 Our State On A Plate. 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 Fishing Australia. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

9GEM (81, 92)

6am Morning Programs. 11.00 Everyday Gourmet. (R) 11.30 GCBC. (R) 11.50 Amazing Race Australia: Celebrity Edition. (PGl, R) 1.00 Location, Location, Location Australia. (R) 2.00 Australia By Design: Architecture. 2.30 Basketball. NBL. Round 1. Melbourne United v New Zealand Breakers. 4.30 House Hunters Aust. (R) 5.00 News.

6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 The Amazing Race Australia: Celebrity Edition. (PGal) Hosted by Beau Ryan. 8.30 Watson. (PGav) Ingrid’s lies come back to haunt her when her sister needs to be treated by the team after she develops side effects to the secret treatments Ingrid put her through. 9.30 FBI. (Mdv, R) The team hunts for those responsible when a truck driver is murdered and the drug he was transporting goes missing. 11.30 10 News+. (R) Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

Programs. 1.30pm Better Homes. 2.30 The Great Australian Doorstep. 3.00 Your Money & Your Life. 3.30 World’s Most Scenic Railway Journeys. 4.30 Escape To The Country. 7.30 Mr Bates Vs The Post Office. 8.30 Vera. 10.30 The Pembrokeshire Murders. 11.35 Heathrow. 12.35am Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 1pm NRLW Wrap. 2.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Finals Series. 4.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Finals Series. 6.00 Dad’s Army. 6.30 M*A*S*H. 8.30 Athletics. World C’ships. 9.30 TBA. Midnight Major Crimes. 1.00 MOVIE: Steptoe And Son. (1972, M) 3.00 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 11.30 Fishy Business. Noon The Fishing Show By AFN. 1.00 Fishing Addiction. 2.00 TBA. 5.30 Counting Cars. 6.00 Border Security: Int. 7.00 Border Security.

ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 3.30pm Project Impossible. 4.30 Seinfeld. 5.00 MOVIE: Who Framed Roger Rabbit? (1988, PG) 7.00 MOVIE: My Super ExGirlfriend. (2006, PG) 9.00 MOVIE: The Accountant. (2016, MA15+) 11.35 Gotham. 12.35am Arrow. 2.30 Oz Off Road TV. 3.30 Big Rigs Of Oz. 4.00 Barbie: Dreamhouse Adventures. 4.30 Late Programs.

Monday, September 22

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 ABC News

Mornings. 10.00 Teenage Boss: Next Level. (PG, R) 10.30 Midsomer Murders. (Mav, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon.

1.00 Landline. (R) 2.00 Grand Designs Australia. (PG, R) 2.55 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 4.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30.

8.00 Australian Story. Australians tell personal stories.

8.30 Four Corners. Investigative journalism program.

9.15 Media Watch. (PG) Presented by Linton Besser.

9.35 Planet America. A look at American politics.

10.05 ABC Late News.

10.20 The Business. (R)

10.40 A Life In Ten Pictures. (PGa, R) 11.30 Grand Designs. (PG, R) 12.20 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.20 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (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 Weekend. 1.30 Al Jazeera News Hour. 2.00 Australia Come Fly With Me. (PGa, R) 3.00 Garage Dreams. (PG) 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.10 My Grandparents’ War. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Robson Green’s Weekend Escapes: Laura Norton. Laura Norton joins Robson Green for a relaxing break.

8.35 Portillo In The Pyrenees: A Spiritual Quest. (PGav, R) Michael Portillo continues his Pyrenean challenge.

9.30 Into South America With Nick Knowles. (PGa, R) Nick Knowles visits Chile.

10.20 SBS World News Late.

10.50 Classified. (Mlv) 11.40 Enemy Of The People. (Mlv, R)

3.05 Expeditions With Patrick McMillan. (R) 4.05 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R) 4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 2.15pm Thomas And Friends. 2.40 Pop Paper City. 3.00 Play School. 4.10 Andy’s Aquatic Adventures. 4.25 Mecha Builders. 5.20 Mojo Swoptops. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Operation Ouch! 8.35 Contraption Masters. (Final) 9.20 The Crystal Maze. 10.10 Late Programs.

NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs. Noon Mabo: Life Of An Island Man. 2.00 This Is Indian Country. (Premiere) 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.30 The 77 Percent. 6.00 Bamay. 6.40 Arctic Secrets. 7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? 8.30 Karla Grant Presents. 9.30 MOVIE: Last Cab To Darwin. (2015, M) 11.40 Treaty Road. 12.40am Closed Doors. 1.00 Late Programs.

6am Morning

SEVEN (6, 7)

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 To Be Advised. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. Hosted by Larry Emdur.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Jo and Lacey join forces.

7.30 AFL Brownlow Medal: Red Carpet. (PG) Coverage of the red carpet arrivals featuring AFL players and their partners.

8.00 AFL Brownlow Medal. An awards event featuring the announcement of the winner of the league’s Brownlow Medal.

11.00 The 1% Club UK. (PG, R) Hosted by Lee Mack.

12.00 Hooten & The Lady. (Mav) Alex manages to track Hooten down in Cambodia.

1.00 Travel Oz. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today.

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

7TWO (62, 72)

NINE (8, 9)

TEN (5, 10)

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 The Block. (PGl, R) 1.30 Young Sheldon. (PGal, R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 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. 6am Morning Programs. 8.00

6.00 9News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 The Block. (PGl) The teams face the mammoth task of completing five spaces in the interior of their homes.

8.40 To Be Advised.

9.40 9News Late.

10.10 To Be Advised.

11.10 Murder In The Family: Jennifer Cronin. (MA15+al, R) Takes a look at the case of Jennifer Cronin.

12.00 100% Footy. (M) Features the latest rugby league news.

1.00 Hello SA. (PG)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 Global Shop. (R)

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)

4.30 A Current Affair. (R)

5.00 Today Early News.

5.30 Today.

9GEM (81, 92)

Programs. 2.55pm Wine Lovers’ Guide. 3.25 History’s Crazy Rich Ancients. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.45 The Food That Built The World. 6.35 Jeopardy! 7.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Joe Lycett’s United States Of Birmingham. (Premiere) 9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. 10.10 Never Mind The Buzzcocks Christmas. 11.00 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. Noon TBA. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 Great Rail Restorations. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Doc Martin. 8.30 Endeavour. 10.30 Air Crash Inv: Accident Files. 11.30 Doc Martin. 12.30am Bargain Hunt. 1.30 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. Noon M*A*S*H. 2.00 Dad’s Army. 3.00 Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE: Mr Denning Drives North. (1951, PG) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Death In Paradise. 8.40 Shakespeare And Hathaway. 10.40 Whitstable Pearl. 11.40 French And Saunders. 12.20am Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)

6am Morning Programs. 1.45pm Lunana: A Yak In The Classroom. (2019, PGa, Dzongkha, English) 3.50 The Movie Show. 4.25 Finding You. (2020, PGal) 6.40 Percy Vs Goliath. (2020, PGal) 8.30 The Man Who Wasn’t There. (2001, MA15+) 10.40 Purple Rain. (1984, Malsv) 12.45am Late Programs.

7MATE (64, 73)

6am Morning Programs. 3.00pm Supercars Support Races. Porsche Carrera Cup Aust. H’lights. 4.00 Storage Wars: Barry’s Best Buys. 5.00 American Resto. 5.30 Storage Wars. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Outback Crystal Hunters. 8.30 MOVIE: The Equalizer 2. (2018, MA15+) 11.00 Late Programs.

Tuesday, September 23

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Australian Story. (R) 10.30 Planet America. (R) 11.15 Britain’s Great Cathedrals. (Final, R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 I, Jack Wright. (Mal, R) 1.55 Grand Designs Australia. (PG, R) 2.55 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (R) 4.10 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (PG, R) 6am Morning Programs. 11.00 Overbooked. 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Australia Come Fly With Me. (Mals, R) 3.00 Going Places. (R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 Walking Wartime England. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) 7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30.

8.00 Foreign Correspondent.

8.30 Take 5 With Zan Rowe: Kevin Bacon. (PGl) Kevin Bacon shares five songs. 9.00 Freddie Mercury: The Final Act. (Ml, R) The story of Freddie Mercury’s final chapter.

10.30 ABC Late News. 10.45 The Business. (R) 11.00 Four Corners. (R) 11.45 Media Watch. (PG, R) 12.05 Whitlam: The Power And The Passion. (Final, PG, R) 1.05 Grand Designs. (R)

1.55 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 2.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.20 Parkinson In Australia. (PGs, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (PG, R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Great British Railway Journeys: Dorking To Lingfield. 8.30 Insight. Looks at baby making. 9.30 Dateline: The Cult Of Tradwives Pt 2. Investigates religious group Homestead Heritage. 10.00 SBS World News Late. 10.30 The Point. (R) 11.30 Screw. (Malv) 1.20 Expeditions With Patrick McMillan. (R) 3.20 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R) 3.50 Music Of The Brain. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 2.40pm Pop Paper City. 3.00 Play School. 4.10 Andy’s Aquatic Adventures. 4.25 Mecha Builders. 5.20 Mojo Swoptops. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Operation Ouch! 8.35 Deadly 60. 9.05 Expedition With Steve Backshall. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. Noon DW The Day. 12.30 Homicide. 2.20 Aussie Jokers. 2.50 The Mega-Brands That Built The World. 3.45 WorldWatch. 5.45 The Food That Built The World. 6.35 Jeopardy! 7.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Alone. 9.40 Hoarders. (Return) 11.20 Calipari: Razor’s Edge. 12.10am Bloodlands. 1.15 Late Programs.

SEVEN (6, 7)

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 To Be Advised. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. Hosted by Larry Emdur.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PG) Eden confides in John. 7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (PGal) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel. 9.05 The Rookie. (Mav) Nune makes a new friend. Chen places her faith in Ridley for an undercover assignment.

10.05 The Agenda Setters. (R) An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics.

11.05 Grosse Pointe Garden Society. (Masv) Alice hopes to fix her relationship with Doug.

12.05 Pretty Hard Cases. (Madv)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

7TWO (62, 72)

6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace.

7.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer.

7.30 The Amazing Race Australia: Celebrity Edition. (PGal) Hosted by Beau Ryan. 8.40 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week.

9.40 Talkin’ ‘Bout Your Gen. (PGls, R) Hosted by Anne Edmonds, with team captains Dave Hughes, Tommy Little and Anisa Nandaula. 10.40 10’s Late News.

11.05 10 News+. (R)

12.05 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

9GO! (82, 93)

6am Morning Programs. Noon My Way. 12.15 MOVIE: The Love Gala. (2023, PG) 2.00 Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 Jeannie. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Three Kings. (1999, MA15+) 10.50 Seinfeld. 11.50 Veronica Mars. 12.45am Pretty Little Liars. 1.40 Late Programs.

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 The Block. (PGl, R) 1.15 Getaway. (PG, R) 1.45 My Way. (R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R)

6.00 9News.

7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 The Block. (PGl) The teams struggle to finish the interiors.

8.40 Paramedics. (Mlm) A hero bystander uses CPR to bring a woman back from the dead.

9.40 Footy Classified. (Ml) Footy experts tackle the AFL’s big issues.

10.40 9News Late.

11.10 La Brea. (Mav, R)

Tipping Point. (PG, R)

Getaway. (PG, R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R)

TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00

9GEM (81, 92)

6am Morning Programs. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Creek To Coast. 2.30 Great Rail Restorations. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Call The Midwife. 8.45 Foyle’s War. 10.45 The Yorkshire Vet. 11.45 Bargain Hunt. 12.45am Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. Noon M*A*S*H. 2.00 Shakespeare And Hathaway. 3.00 Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE: It’s Great To Be Young! (1956) 5.30 The Travelling Auctioneers. (Return) 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 New Tricks. 8.40 Agatha Raisin. 10.40 Major Crimes. 11.40 French And Saunders. 12.20am Late Programs.

ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. Noon Talking Honey. 12.15 MOVIE: Finding Mr Right. (2023) 2.00 Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 Jeannie. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Lord Of War. (2005, MA15+) 11.00 Seinfeld. Midnight Veronica Mars. 1.00 Pretty Little Liars. 2.00 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 2pm Outback Crystal Hunters. 3.00 Aussie Gold Hunters. 4.00 Storage Wars: Barry’s

TEN (5, 10)

Wednesday, September 24

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Four Corners. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 12.30 National Press Club Address. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 1.55 Restoration Australia. (PG, R) 2.55 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30.

8.00 Hard Quiz. (PGs) Presented by Tom Gleeson.

8.30 Mother And Son. (Return, PGdl) Maggie falls for an activities director on a holiday.

9.00 The Assembly: Richard Roxburgh. (PG, R) The students interview Richard Roxburgh.

9.45 Would I Lie To You? (PG, R)

10.15 ABC Late News.

10.30 The Business. (R)

10.45 Planet America. (R) 11.20 You Can’t Ask That. (Ml, R) 11.50 Grand Designs. (R) 12.35 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.20 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.25 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 2.40pm Pop Paper City. 3.00 Play School. 4.10 Andy’s Aquatic Adventures. 4.25 Super Monsters. 5.20 Mojo Swoptops. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Operation Ouch! 8.35 Fresh Off The Boat. 9.15 Wallace And Gromit: A Matter Of Loaf And Death. 9.45 Merlin. 10.30 Late Programs.

NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm Chatham Islanders. 2.00 This Is Indian Country. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.30 News. 6.00 Bamay. 6.40 The Big Dry. 7.30 Home, Land & Sea. (Return) 8.30 MOVIE: Copycat. (1995, MA15+) 10.40 Night Cries: A Rural Tragedy. 11.00 Buwarrala Aryah. Midnight Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 10.00 North Sea Wonders: A Coastal Journey. (PG) 11.00 Overbooked. (PGa) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 Walking Wartime England. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 The People Vs Robodebt. (Premiere, Mal) Looks at The People versus Robodebt.

8.30 Secrets Of Flying Scotsman. (Premiere) Looks at TheFlying Scotsman, the world’s most famous steam locomotive. 9.30 Code Of Silence. (Mlv) Alison’s role grows treacherous. 10.25 SBS World News Late. 10.55 COBRA. (Mal)

11.40 Freezing Embrace. (Malv, R)

1.25 The U.S. And The Holocaust. (Maw, R) 3.35 J Schwanke’s Life In Bloom. (R) 4.05 Curious Traveller. (R) 4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31)

6am Morning

Programs. Noon DW The Day. 12.30 Small Town Secrets. 1.15 Stay Tooned. 2.15 Tales From A Suitcase. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.50 The Food That Built The World. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 The Patient. (Premiere) 9.30 MOVIE: The Departed. (2006, MA15+) 12.15am The Bloody Decade. 1.15 Bloodlands. 3.25 Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)

6am Morning Programs. 1.10pm India Sweets And Spices. (2021, Mls) 3.00 The Emperor’s Club. (2002, PGlns) 5.00 Oink. (2022, PGav, Dutch) 6.25 The Company. (2003, PGals) 8.30 Intolerable Cruelty. (2003) 10.25 Finding Your Feet. (2017, Ml) 12.25am Chino. (1973, Manv) 2.15 The Nest. (2020, MA15+l) 4.15 Late Programs.

Thursday, September 25

ABC TV (2)

SBS (3)

SEVEN (6, 7)

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 To Be Advised. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. Hosted by Larry Emdur.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Eden is met with a drunken confession.

7.30 My Kitchen Rules. (PGal) Hosted by Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel.

9.15 Off The Grid With Colin And Manu. (Premiere, PG) Colin Fassnidge and Manu Feildel embark on a New Zealand road trip.

10.15 House Of Wellness. (Return, PG) Experts share advice on living well.

11.15 Chicago Fire. (Ma) Pascal questions Kidd’s leadership. 12.15 Imposters. (Madlsv, R) Maddie continues to struggle with her demons.

1.15 Travel Oz. (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 TBA. 1.30 Room For Improvement. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Heartbeat. 8.45 Lewis. 10.45 Air Crash Inv. 11.45 Bargain Hunt. 12.45am Room For Improvement. 1.30 Late Programs.

7MATE (64, 73)

6am Morning Programs. Noon American Pickers. 1.00 Pawn Stars. 2.00 Outback Truckers. 4.00 Storage Wars: Barry’s Best Buys. 5.00 American Resto. 5.30 Storage Wars. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Highway Patrol. 8.30 The Force: BTL. 9.30 Caught On Dashcam. 10.30 World’s Wildest Police Videos. 11.30 Late Programs.

NINE (8, 9)

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 The Block. (PGl, R) 1.00 Find My Country House Australia. (R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. (PG) 5.30 WIN News.

6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 The Block. (PGl) Some favourite all-stars return.

8.40 Clarkson’s Farm: Parking. (Ml) Jeremy Clarkson brings in the Chairman of the British Deer Society to help with the deer management issues on the farm.

9.50 Players. (Ml) A look at all the AFL news.

10.50 9News Late.

11.20 To Be Advised.

12.10 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.00 Let’s Eat With George. (R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 Global Shop. (R)

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

9GEM (81, 92)

6am Morning Programs.

11.30 My Favorite Martian. Noon M*A*S*H. 2.00 Dad’s Army. 3.00 Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE: Manuela. (1957, PG) 5.30 The Travelling Auctioneers. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 As Time Goes By. 8.40 Midsomer Murders. 10.50 Major Crimes. 11.50 French And Saunders Go To The Movies. 12.45am Late Programs.

9GO! (82, 93)

6am Morning Programs. Noon Explore. 12.15 MOVIE: How To Win A Prince. (2023, PG) 2.00 Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 Jeannie. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: The Edge Of Seventeen. (2016, M) 10.35 Seinfeld. 11.35 Veronica Mars. 12.35am Late Programs.

(6, 7)

(8, 9) 6.00 News. 9.00 News. 10.00 Foreign Correspondent. (R) 10.30 Back Roads. (R) 11.10 Mother And Son. (PGdl, R) 11.40 If You’re Listening. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Silent Witness. (Ma, R) 2.00 Restoration Aust. (PG, R) 2.55 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.25 Grand Designs. (R) 4.15 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6am Morning Programs. 11.00 Overbooked. (PGas) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 The People Vs Robodebt. (Mal, R) 3.00 Going Places. (R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.40 The Cook Up. (R) 4.15 Walking Wartime England. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) 7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30.

8.00 Back Roads: Tambo, Queensland. (PG) Guest presenter Tom Forrest heads to Tambo.

8.30 Grand Designs New Zealand. A couple embark on a renovation.

9.15 Mystery Road: Origin. (Mal, R) Jay’s hopes of a new beginning are shattered.

10.10 ABC Late News.

10.25 The Business. (R) 10.40 Grand Designs. (R) 11.30 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 12.20 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.25 Parkinson In Australia. (PG, R) 4.30 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) Presented by Marc Fennell. 6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 9/11: One Day In America: The Cloud. (M) Survivors become separated. 9.35 Snowpiercer. (MA15+v) The rebel forces are on the ropes when a dangerous foe defects to their side. 10.25 SBS World News Late. 10.55 Dopesick. (MA15+ad, R) Activists take action against Purdue.

12.05 Blue Lights. (Mal, R) 2.20 The U.S. And The Holocaust. (Mav, 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. 4.10pm Andy’s Aquatic Adventures. 4.25 Super Monsters. 5.20 Mojo Swoptops. 5.45 Kangaroo Beach. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.35 Ninjago: Dragons Rising. 8.00 Operation Ouch! 8.35 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.20 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 9.45 The Mysterious Benedict Society. 10.35 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. Noon DW The Day. 12.30 Addicted Australia. 1.40 Kim Yo Jong: The Red Princess. 2.40 Bamay. 3.00 Insight. 4.05 WorldWatch. 6.05 Over The Black Dot. 6.35 Jeopardy! 7.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Curse Of Oak Island. 10.10 The UnXplained. 11.00 Homicide. 1.45am Conversations. 2.25 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 To Be Advised. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. Hosted by Larry Emdur.

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGa) Lacey and Theo are at odds.

8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) In the lead-up to the 2025 AFL Grand Final, Sam Pang, Mick Molloy and Andy Maher share a laugh about the world of AFL. 10.00 Unfiltered. (PGa) Hosted by Hamish McLachlan.

10.30 Kick Ons. A preview of the upcoming AFL matches.

11.00 Unbelievable Moments Caught On Camera. (PGa, R) Footage of headline-grabbing moments.

12.00 Life. (Malsv, R)

1.00 Travel Oz. (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 TBA. 2.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 2.30 Air Crash Inv. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Animal Rescue. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Father Brown. 8.30 Line Of Duty. 11.10 Murdoch Mysteries. 12.10am Father Brown. 1.30 The Great Australian Doorstep. 2.00 Late Programs.

TEN (5, 10)

(34)

7MATE (64, 73) SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 2pm This Is Indian Country. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.30 Te Ao With Moana. 6.00 Bamay. 6.40 The Big Dry. 7.30 Going Places. 8.30 Reservation Dogs. (Premiere) 9.30 MOVIE: Australian Rules. (2002, M) 11.15 We Need To Talk About Cosby. 12.15am Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 2pm Highway Patrol. 3.00 Talking W. 3.30 The Force: BTL. 4.00 Storage Wars: Barry’s Best Buys. 5.00 American Resto. 5.30 Storage Wars. 6.00 American Pickers. 7.00 Football. AFL Women’s. Geelong v Hawthorn. 9.15 Family Guy. 10.15 American Dad! 11.15 Late Programs.

6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly Australia. (PGal) A Jack Russell bites anyone who goes near its owner. 8.30 The Gilded Age. (Mav) George faces a surprising development. Marian sees Mr Raikes against Agnes’ wishes. Ada runs into an old friend. 9.40 Elsbeth. (Ma, R) Elsbeth and Kaya investigate a rising tennis star and his competitive father and coach after a world champion drops dead. 10.40 10’s Late News. 11.05 10 News+. (R) 12.05 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 CBS Mornings.

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 The Block. (PGl, R) 1.00 To Be Advised. 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. (PG) 5.00[MELB] TippingPoint Australia.(PG,R) 5.30 WIN News. 6am Morning Programs. 8.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 9.00 Lingo. (R) 10.00 Ent. Tonight. (R) 10.30 Dogs Behaving (Very) Badly Australia. (PGal, R) 11.30 Judge Judy. (PG, R) 12.00 Everyday Gourmet. 12.30 Family Feud. (PG, R) 1.00 News. 2.00 Wheel Of Fortune. 2.30 Lingo. (R)

6.00 9News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Footy Show Grand Final: My Room Telethon. (PG) Hosted by Tony Jones. 10.30 9News Late.

11.00 Chicago Med. (MA15+am) Chicago PD steps up Sharon’s security.

12.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R)

1.00 Destination WA. (R)

1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

2.30 Global Shop. (R)

3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R)

Believer’s Voice Of Victory. (PGa)

Today Early News. 5.30 Today.

9GEM (81, 92)

6am Morning Programs. Noon M*A*S*H. 2.00 As Time Goes By. 3.20 MOVIE: The Heart Of The Matter. (1953, PG) 5.30 The Travelling Auctioneers. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Clarkson’s Farm. 8.40 Fawlty Towers. 10.00 Blackadder The Third. 11.20 French And Saunders Go To The Movies. Midnight Antiques Roadshow. 12.30 Late Programs.

9GO! (82, 93) 6am Morning Programs. 12.15pm Unruly. (2022, Masv, Danish, Swedish) 2.40 Sunflower. (1970, PGa, Italian, Russian) 4.40 The Hudsucker Proxy. (1994, PG) 6.45 Clockwatchers. (1997, PGl) 8.30 The Big Lebowski. (1998, MA15+) 10.40 A Most Violent Year. (2014, MA15+av) 1am Late Programs.

Friday, 19 September, 2025

6am Morning Programs. Noon Talking Honey. 12.15 MOVIE: Luckless In Love. (2022, PG) 2.00 Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 5.30 Jeannie. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Survivor 49. (Return) 9.30 TBA. 11.30 Seinfeld. 12.30am Pretty Little Liars. 1.30 Supernatural. 3.30 Late Programs.

10 News+. 7.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 7.30 Gogglebox

Visit Downton Abbey’s home

By Lee Mccarthy

Viking is well known for its destinationfocused journeys on rivers, oceans, and lakes around the world but what is not as wellknown is the company’s partnerships and philanthropicpursuits.

The company has partnered with Focus Features, Universal Pictures, and Carnival Films to celebrate the highly anticipated returnoftheglobalphenomenon,Downton Abbey.

The Grand Finale was released in Australia on 11 September and Viking’s corporate sponsorship of the celebrated series masterpiece, which began in 2011 continues today as part of the company’s ongoingcommitmenttoenrichingcultural programming.

Karine Hagen, Viking’s Executive Vice President of Product said, “Downton Abbey has long held a special place in the hearts of our guests, many of whom were introduced to Viking and Highclere Castle through the series.”

“A key aspect of the Viking way of travel is offering our guests Privileged Access to cultural treasures around the world, and our exclusive experiences at Highclere Castle, which are co-created with the Carnarvonfamily,havebecomefavourites amongourguests.”

Highclere Castle is the home of the Earl and Countess of Carnarvon and the iconic filminglocationofDowntonAbbey.

Since 2014, Viking has offered guests a variety of ways to experience life at Highclere Castle, with pre and post land extensions that include the highly rated Oxford and Highclere Castle and Great Homes,GardensandGinextensionswhich are available for guests on select river and oceanvoyages.

Additionally, for guests on the popular Nile River itinerary, Pharaohs and Pyramids, Viking offers the British Collections of Ancient Egypt land extension.

The five-day extension provides guests with an introduction to Egyptian antiquities in preparation for their Nile River experience and includes retracing the steps of the world’s most famous Egyptologist, Howard Carter, and his benefactor, the Fifth Earl of Carnarvon.

Guests experience Privileged Access to archives and museum exhibits not normally accessible to the public, and at Highclere Castle, guests have the

opportunity to view the Earl’s magnificent privatecollectionofEgyptianartifacts.

Lady Carnarvon said, “For over a decade, it has been a pleasure to open our doors to Viking guests and truly provide Privileged Access, sharing with them the stories, traditions and treasures that have made this estate special for more than 300 years.”

“The personal and professional ties between Viking and Highclere run deep, and our longstanding relationship is rooted in a shared devotion to heritage, culture and the enrichment that comes fromgenuineexploration.”

Lady Carnarvon has also welcomed

viewers to Highclere Castle on Viking’s award-winning enrichment channel, Viking.TV.

Inherseries,‘AtHomeatHighclere’,Lady Carnarvon offers virtual Privileged Access tothehistorichomeanditsgrounds.

Viking’s close friendship with the Carnarvon family has also extended to its fleet. Lady Carnarvon is the ceremonial godmotherofaVikingLongship,theViking Skadi and an ocean ship, the Viking Mars. In 2022, Lord Carnarvon became Viking’s first godfather, fulfilling the role for the Viking Osiris and in 2024, their son, the Hon. Edward Herbert, became godfather oftheVikingHathor.

Viking is proud to offer Australian residents a chance to win a grand prize of a trip for two on Viking’s eight-day river voyage, Paris and the Heart of Normandy, with a three-night Privileged Access extension to Oxford and Highclere Castle.

The winner will also receive Eurostar transportation between London and Paris for two. Entries close on 1 December 2025 and to enter, visit the Viking website and searchfor‘SpringCompetition’.

For further information on Viking cruises destinations and tours, please call 138 747 or visit their website www. vikingrivercruises.com.au.

Viking has partnered with Focus Features, Universal Pictures and Carnival Films to celebrate the highly anticipated return of the global phenomenon, Downton Abbey. Pictured is Lady Carnarvon and members of the Highclere Castle family. (Supplied)

Lady Carnarvon with Karine Hagen from Viking on the estate grounds of Highclere Castle where Downton Abbey is filmed and where Viking guests are offered ‘Privileged Access’.

Members of the real-life staff of Highclere Castle, the filming location of Downton Abbey on the red carpet in London.

Full-Board Cruise

35 night full-board cruise on board Noordam

Transfers not included but can be added on at the time of booking Your Holiday Includes

Visiting: Sydney, Brisbane, Alotau, Kiriwina Island, Conflict Islands, Cairns, Townsville, Torres Strait (scenic cruising), Darwin, Broome, Exmouth, Perth (overnight in port), Albany, Adelaide, Kangaroo Island, Melbourne, Phillip Island, Hobart, Port Arthur, Sydney

Complimentary Ocean View to Verandah Upgrade

Complimentary Hotel Stay

1 night four-star hotel stay in Sydney at the Rydges Sydney Central with breakfast

Complimentary Flights & Taxes

Spring is a season of renewal and the perfect time to plan your next unforgettable journey. With exclusive airfare offers, you can experience the world The Viking Way —in comfort and with more included.

Book a river voyage and fly free, or book an ocean or expedition voyage and your companion flies free. Be quick, offers end 1 December 2025*.

BRITISH ISLES & IRELAND

Belfast to London or vice versa

15 DAYS | 4 COUNTRIES

13 GUIDED TOURS

SET SAIL: APR-MAY, JUL-SEP 2027; APR-SEP 2028

From $13,195pp in Deluxe Veranda

From $15,695pp in Penthouse Suite

IBERIA, FRANCE & ENGLAND EXPLORER

Lisbon to London or vice versa

12 DAYS | 4 COUNTRIES

8 GUIDED TOURS

SET SAIL: SEP 2026; APR, SEP 2027; APR, JUN, OCT 2028

From $9,195pp in Veranda Stateroom

From $11,195pp in Penthouse Veranda

FRANCE'S FINEST

Paris to Avignon or vice versa

15 DAYS | 1 COUNTRY

13 GUIDED TOURS

SET SAIL: MAR-NOV 2026; MAR-NOV 2027

From $10,695pp in Standard Stateroom

From $14,095pp in Veranda Stateroom

All roads lead to Geelong

Celebrity chef Simon Toohey is one half of the team pioneering a new weekly market in the centre of Geelong. He spoke to Matt Hewson about his culinary journey and building a life in the region

Since first appearing on MasterChef in 2019, chef and plant-based food advocate Simon Toohey has become a well-known figure in the Australian culinary scene.

After placing third in that first season, Simon was invited back for MasterChef: Back to Win in 2020, co-founded Sustainable Earth Network to promote zero-waste practices, become the host of cooking show Freshly Picked, launched a vegan smokehouse and become a highly sought-after guest at events.

In 2022 Simon and his partner Georgia relocated from inner-west Melbourne to Geelong, where he has become an active participant in the community.

HeimmediatelyconnectedwiththeGive Where You Live Foundation, becoming ambassador for its Feed Geelong Appeal (2022-2024) and hosting culinary events at The Paddock.

Simon created or facilitated numerous events in the region, holding a plant-based degustation at Flying Brick Cider House in 2024 and hosting a masterclass with Irish chef Declan McGovern at the National Celtic Festival in Portarlington this year, among others.

He said he and Georgia had been considering moving to Ballarat, but were put off by the cold winters.

Geelong is one of the biggest food bowls of Victoria, but we’re the forgotten city

- Simon Toohey

“We were looking at Ballarat, and then my producer for Freshly Picked said, why not Geelong?” Simon said.

“I was like, because it’s like Newcastleindustry, factory work, stuff like that. He said ‘you haven’t been to Geelong, have you?’

“All I knew was the beacon of light, the Eye of Sauron (Geelong Refinery flare) in the sky.”

He has since been delighted to have his preconceptions about the region shattered and find a thriving culture of producers and makers in the food scene.

“Geelong is one of the biggest food bowls of Victoria, but we’re the forgotten city,” he said.

“We’re one of the fastest growing regional cities in Australia, we have this young demographic coming through with aninterestinreallygoodfood,andwehave a bunch of producers down here, which is phenomenal.

“Whether it’s meat, dairy, livestock, seafood, it’s unbelievably great. And then we’ve got people who are actually realising that this town is full of young people with creative minds, creating really cool ideas in food.

“There is this community screaming out to be nationally known… We’re also wine country here, we’ve got great distilleries and breweries, we have amazing stuff here.”

Simon’sroadtobecomingacelebritychef has been a winding one. A self-described jockathishighschool,CanberraGrammar, he wanted to study psychology but just missed out on the entry score.

Having already worked in a bakery since the age of 15, Simon began studying hospitality management at TAFE and working in the best pizza joint in town, before snagging a job working the front of house at the five-star Hyatt Hotel.

“I learned the hotel side of things, I learned how to work fast, and I really enjoyed that,” he said.

“I used to drink at a pub called Filthy McFadden’s, a great Irish pub… and so I started working there. Again, working under really cool people who taught me speed, how to serve more than one person at a time.”

When a mate offered him a job at a cocktail bar, Simon began to discover an unanticipated outlet for his creative side.

“You had to memorise 120 classic cocktailsbeforeyoucouldevenworkthere; I was like, that’s an achievement, that’s cool,” he said.

“I hated history, but then all of a sudden I started loving it. The history of cocktails was so exciting, from the Prohibition and bootlegging, to the worlds of drinks, how cocktails were invented in different countries, different places.

“I found the really wonderful, creative side of making drinks.”

By the time he had completed his advanced diploma and then a Bachelor’s degree in tourism management at University of Canberra, Simon had worked at all the best bars in town. He was ready for a change.

He moved to Byron Bay for 18 months beforebuyingaone-oneticketandheading to the UK, where he based himself for the next five years.

While in London Simon perfected his hospitality craft, winning international cocktail awards and immersing himself in the history of the industry. But it was while managing the bar at Shoreditch’s trailblazing cocktail venue Callooh Callay he had an epiphany.

“It had this upstairs room called the Jubjub, seated 13 people, it was small,” he said.

“You’d give it to a bartender to run for a month and they would write the menu… cost the cocktails, run the books, the staffing.AndIwaslike,youknowwhat,I’m

going to do it for a month, I need to get my creative side back.

“So I started doing some fun things… clarifying watermelon juices and putting it inasphere,makingareductionofbeetroot and dripping it in there, with a candle behind it that made it look like the sun was rising.

“I had (a drink) purely made from potatoes, the garnish, the liquid, the whole lot.

“I had one made of seaweed that I resealed into a sardine can… put it in a fish tank with plastic fish, give people a handheld fishing net and they had to fish the drink out. So this kind of craziness.”

When, on the first night of his run in the Jubjub, a drunk customer derided one of Simon’s creations with a homophobic slur,

he had a realisation.

“At that moment, I realised alcohol is a luxury, and the majority of the time no matter how much people love a nice drink, ultimatelytheyarejusttheretogetpissed,” he said.

“Boozeisaluxury,butfoodisanecessity. So over the next week I started searching for masters in gastronomy, food science.” Simon was one of 12 students accepted to Queen Margaret University’s course in 2014. The masters covered a wide range of subjects, including food history, food culture, conservation, sustainability, rewilding, permaculture and biosecurity.

That was the beginning of the journey that took him through two seasons of MasterChef(“itwasthemostintensetime… life-changing, for sure”) and, ultimately, brought him to Geelong.

Now Simon and business partner Kieran Blood - event specialist and founder of GeelongBeerFestival-haveanewmission to kickstart a market culture in Geelong, starting with the city’s weekly market in Little Malop Street.

“Trying to get a brick and mortar, South Melbourne-style market in Geelong is my goal,” he said.

“When I was in Canberra, with the same population as Geelong has now, they had three full brick and mortar markets open from Wednesday to Sunday. Why can’t we do that?

“We want to build that sort of market eventspace,whichisallaboutlifestyleand hospitality. Winter solstice night markets, fire markets, noodle markets.

“Whether that’s great hot sauces, tofu, soy sauces, whether that’s Ket Baker, Two Tins Patisserie of Lardass Butter, there is amazing produce there.

“If we can create a positive change in a town like Geelong, which is screaming for a really good fresh food and veg place, with a bunch of cool restaurants creating beautiful food, then great. That’s my big goal.”

Simon Toohey harvesting vegetables in his garden with dog Lentil. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 503800

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

1 Innocuous (8) 5 Neckwear (6)

Fat (5) 11 Philosophy without morality (9) 12 Logical (6)

The smell of the ocean (4,3) 14 One of the colours of the ocean (3,5)

Materialise (6) 18 Relaxed (2,4) 20 Ridicules (8) 21 Hang by attachment (7)

24 Wanders (6) 27 Forcibly remove from power (9) 28 Indigenous people (NZ) (5) 29 Screech (6) 30 Process of mesmerisation (8)

Named after a particular person (9)

17 Raised track over low ground (8)

19 Apparition (7)

22 Show contempt (5)

23 Earth (4)

25 Japanese noodles (5)

26 Insult (coll)

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

1 Melissa McCarthy (pictured) starred as Sookie St. James in which television drama series?

2 Who of the following was not a wife of Zeus: Hera, Leto, Metis or Aphrodite?

3 Beginning with ‘G’, what is the name of the stew that is the official cuisine of Louisiana, US?

4 Robert Smith is the lead singer of which English rock band?

5 What is the name for the side of the triangle opposite from the right angle?

6 ‘He was soon borne away by the waves, and lost in darkness and distance’ is the final line of which famous gothic novel?

7 Julia Roberts played which US environmental activist in a 2000 film directed by Steven Soderbergh?

8 What pivotal event in world history took place on November 9, 1989?

9 Which French writer and philosopher is generally credited as being the father of the essay genre?

10 Clove hitch, butterfly loop, sheet bend and carrick bend are all types of what?

No.

No.

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.

Austrian Club Geelong Rock and roll cabaret, 20 Plantation Road, Corio, Sunday September 21 from 5pm. Featuring Tony Rebeiro & the Bureau.

 Karl, 0412 205 714

Stall

Royal Children’s Hospital Geelong Auxiliary spring stall & bake sale, Saturday September 20, 9am-1pm, Bellevue Avenue, Highton Village.

Ballroom dance

Leopold Hall, 805-809 Bellarine Highway, Saturday September 20, 7.30-10.30pm, $10 includes supper, music Ben.

 0400 500 402

Welcome mat

Belmont Uniting Church every Friday from 10am-1pm. Games, lunch and friendship.

 Fay, 0409 361 414

OMNI

Older Men New Ideas men’s friendly informal chat group, South Barwon Community Centre, 33 Mt Pleasant Road, Belmont, 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month, 10.30am.

 Allan, 0409 665 608

Bike riding

Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from Belmont. Rides to suit all levels of fitness; e-bikes welcome.

 Rob, 0412 308 166

Lara Community Market

Run by Rotary Club of Lara District every second Sunday of the month at Lara RSL 9am-1pm.

Geelong Amateur Radio Club

Storrer Street Clubhouse, Geelong, Wednesdays 1.30-4pm and Fridays 6.30pm.

 Robert 0438 409 979, or vk3atl.org

Choir

St Paul’s Choir rehearses Wednesdays from 7.45-8.45pm and 9.30am Sunday for 10.30am service. Choral scholarships available. Occasional choir for those unable to make commitment to main choir.

 Tom Healey, 0451 960 768, or healeytf@gmail.com

Bellydance classes

Beginner level, new term commencing. New students welcome. Tuesdays 1.30pm, Life Activities Club, Belmont Park Pavillion, Belmont.

 Glenys, 0400 214 897

Geelong’s Soroptimist International Service club for women and girls, every second Tuesday of the month from 6pm at Belmont RSL.

 0455 835 691, or geelong@siswp.com

Geelong Sports & Game Fishing Meets first and third Monday of the month at Belmont Park Pavilion, 7.30pm.

 John, 0409 234 307

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.

 Secretary, 0417 555 547

Geelong Anglers Club

Meets fourth Wednesday of the month at 7.30pm, 9 Yuille Street, Geelong West. Monthly fishing competitions.

 Brian, 0417 190 092, or Ian, 0470 114 787

Drysdale CWA

Every second Tuesday at 1pm and crafts

every fourth Tuesday at 11.30am of each month at Drysdale RSL Club.

 Jenny, 0452 258 333

Scottish dancing

GOG Scottish Country Dance classes

7.30pm Tuesdays at Leopold Hill Hall, $5. No partner needed.

 Vicki, 0412 762 983, or Barbara, 0419-511 781

Geelong Scottish Dance Highland dance classes for all ages

Wednesday from 4pm and Saturday from 10am at Western Heights Uniting Church Hall, St Herne Hill.

 Christine, 0468 311 788, or facebook.com/GeelongScottishDance

Bingo

Tuesdays 1-3pm, great grocery prizes plus $50 jackpot books $2.50. Belmont Seniors Centre, 52 Thomson Street, Belmont.

 Frank, 5241 1776

First steps in music

Babies, toddlers and preschoolers welcome with parent/carer. Thursdays Northern Bay College, Tallis, and Fridays at Northern Bay College, Peacock. Free if living in 3214 postcode, bookings essential.

 info@bluebirdfoundationinc.org.au

Dragons Abreast Geelong

Dragon boating for breast cancer survivors, Saturdays 12.30pm, Geelong Canoe Club, Marnock Road, Highton. Free come and try.

 Traci, 0417 301 226, Facebook Dragons Abreast Geelong - Juggernauts

PlayLinks

Music and art playgroup where babies, toddlers and preschoolers learn together with their parent/carer. Wednesdays St Thomas Aquinas Primary School, Norlane. Free if living in 3214 postcode, bookings essential.

 info@bluebirdfoundationinc.org.au

Grovedale East Ladies Probus

Fourth Monday of each month, 9.30am, Belmont RSL.

 Sally Nelson, 0402 450 610

Waurn Ponds Combined Probus

Fourth Wednesday of the month, 10am. Maximum 100 members.

 probussouthpacific.org/microsites/waurn

Lions Club of Geelong

Meets 1st & 3rd Monday of each month. Contact below for venues and times.

 geelong.vic@lions.org.au or 0408 599 962

Geelong Harmony Chorus Women’s four-part harmony singing. All

Kids+ Kite Festival Kite flying, face painting, sensory space, bubble art, food trucks, sausage sizzle, entertainment, live music. Sunday October 5, 11am-2pm, Rippleside Park.  kidsplus.org.au/kites

ages encouraged. Rehearsals Mondays 6.45pm at Herne Hill.

 contact@geelongharmony.com.au, or 0406 666 737

Geelong Welsh Ladies Choir

Small ladies choir who require no knowledge of the Welsh language. Meet Wednesdays 7pm at St Luke’s, Highton to help each other sing in Welsh and English.

 0413 406 433, or welshladieschoir.com.au

Chess clubs

Ocean Grove, Tuesdays at 1.30pm at 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove; Portarlington, Mondays at 9.30am, Parks Hall, 87 Newcombe Street, Portarlington; and St Leonards, Thursdays at 9.30am, unit 2 1375-1377 Murradoc Road (on Blanche Street), St Leonards.

 Ralph, 0431 458 100 (Ocean Grove), Rob, 5259 2290 (Portarlington), Lyn, 5292 2162 (St Leonards)

Geelong Scout Heritage Centre Meets third Sunday of the month, 56 Russell Street, Newtown, 10am-3pm.  0419 591 432, or geelong.heritage@scoutsvictoria.com.au

Dancer’s Club Geelong

Ballroom dance weekly, Leopold Hall 7.30-10.30pm. Admission $8 includes supper. Old time, New Vogue and Latin. CDs by Puff, Damian and Anne and Kevin.  Russ, 5250 1937

Life Activities Club [Geelong Inc] Arvo tea dance every Thursday, Belmont Pavilion, 2-4pm, $5 entry.

 Val, 5251 3529

Belmont Combined Probus First Monday of the month, 9.30am, Geelong RSL Function Room, 50 Barwon Heads Rd. New members and visitors welcome

 Sue, 0409 945 011, or probusclubofbelmont@outlook.com

Barwon Valley Belmont Probus First Thursday of the month, 10am, Waurn Ponds Hotel.

 Membership officer, 0407 333 263, or bobstafford@ozemail.com.au

Lectures

Join Adfas Geelong Inc. for illustrated lectures by art historian Matthew Martin, formerly curator of the National Gallery of Victoria.

Sports

Badminton: Corio Leisuretime Centre, Mondays 12.30-2.30pm. Beginners welcome.

Netball: YMCA Riversdale Road, Monday & Wednesday mornings, Thursday nights. Walking-netball also played. Umpire training available.

 Maureen, 0429 397 015

Arts National Geelong Welcomes guests and members to monthly lecture series. Details of lecture topics, lecturers and venues at:

 artsnational.au

Live music

Country Heartbeat Allstars every Friday 7-10pm, White Eagle House Polish Club, Fellmongers Road Breakwater. Walkups welcome. Proceeds to Sunny Days Rescue & Rehab.

 Dawn, 0417 148 493

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

 Ann, 0407 234 541

GROW Australia

Community organisation offering practical steps and peer support to help recover and maintain mental health through free face to face and online groups. Mondays 7pm, 195 Ormond Road, East Geelong, Fridays 12.45pm, Vines Road Community Centre, Hamlyn Heights, Zoom group 7pm Tuesdays.

 grow.org.au, or 1800 558 268

Grovedale Seniors

Indoor bowls Monday 1-3pm; gentle exercise Tuesday 9-9.45am; cards (Euchre) Tuesday 1-3pm; bingo Thursday 1-3pm. Grovedale Community Hub, 45 Heyers Road.

 Julie, 0419 549 521

Drysdale Day VIEW

Fourth Friday of each month at Portarlington Golf Club for lunch.

 Margaret, 0431 636 090

Table tennis

All seniors welcome for a social game. Vines Road Community Centre, Hamlyn Heights, Wednesdays 12.30-2.30pm.

 Allen, 0433 883 116

Leopold VIEW

Second Tuesday of each month at Leopold Sportsmans’ Club at 10.30am.

 leopold.viewclub@gmail com

Geelong Day VIEW

First Monday monthly from 11am at Shell Club, 76 Purnell Road, Corio.

 geelongdayview@gmail.com

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 at 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

Out & about at Newcomb

Independent photographer Ivan Kemp was at Newcomb’s Grinter Reserve on Saturday for the Bellarine Football Netball League grand finals to see who was out and about.

Above: Chloe Brown and Jaime McKie with the 13 & Under Division 1 cup. 501559_10

Above right: Ella Brown and Emma Barry with the 17 & Under Division 1 premiership cup. 501559_04 Below: Gemma Bell and Jorja Connellan. 501559_03

Gheghe Goh and Thanika Wongphoommuang. 501559_12

Left: Kathryn Fraser with her children Rufus, Archie and Rosie. 501559_11 Centre: Zoe Kavanagh and daughter Kate. 501559_09 Right: Xavier Ellison, Justin Whittakers, Janelle Hearn and Tracey Whittakers.

Cheryl De Groot, Eliza Williamson, Sophie Dineen and Rebecca Lee. 501559_08

Above: Mollie Stephens and son Gus. 501559_05 Above right: Danielle Baker with 7-month old Hadley. 501559_02

Matt Connell and Bonnie Traynor. 501559_06

Matt with children Zephyr, Iggy and Goldie, aunty Sam with Blake and aunty Tayla with Millie and Skyler. 501559_01

SERVICES AT: 321-349 Bluff Road, St Leonards VIC 3223

1. Proposed upgrade consists of:

•Installation of 6 panel antennas and 3 air antennas on a proposed Telstra triangular headframe on the existing 40m Indara monopole

•Proposed 6 tower mounted amplifiers, 3 remote radio units and 3 junction boxes behind the proposed antennas

•Install a new Telstra equipment shelter with a proposed Telstra GPS Antenna on the roof within the existing Indara Compound (15.0m x 10.0m)

•Install proposed Telstra associated and ancillary equipment including feeders, cabling, cable ladder, safety/EME signage, and mounts.

2. Telstra regards the proposed installations as Low Impact Facilities under the Telecommunications (Low Impact Facilities) Determination 2018 (“The Determination”) based on the descriptions above.

3. In accordance with Section 7 of C564:2025 Mobile Phone Base Station Deployment Code, we invite you to provide feedback about the proposal. Further information and/or comments should be directed to: Liz M via phone: 0418 698 701 or Email community.consult@downergroup.com by COB 8 October 2025.

4. For more information about the proposal, scan the QR code or visit: www.rfnsa.com.au/3223012

Power play to hybrid heights

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

With the landing of its Cannon Alpha plug-in hybrid electric vehicle in Australia, Great Wall Motors has shot its big ute into a leading spot in the segment, the Chinese maker claiming the PHEV sets a new yardstick in performance, range, and capabilities for electrified vehicles in the segment.

GWM’ssecondmodeltoenterthegrowing PHEV market in Australia, following the Haval H6GT PHEV, the Cannon Alpha PHEV comes in two variants, the Lux and Ultraonthemarketfor$63,990and$68,990 respectively, driveaway.

The maker claims the Ultra (on test) has an EV range of 110km (even off road and in 4WD) and a combined ICE and EV touring range of 880km, utilising the 75-litre petrol tank. Charging times from a DC fast chargerarereckonedat24minutesfrom30 to 80 per cent charge.

The Cannon Alpha PHEV is backed by GWM’s comprehensive customer-care program offering an eight-year unlimited kilometre battery pack warranty, seven-year unlimited kilometre new car warranty, seven-year roadside assistance with 24/7 support, and seven years capped price servicing.

Styling

On first glance, the Cannon PHEV is instantly recognisable, if not for all the rightreasons.Thesparewheelsitsuptothe right of the tub (blame the battery pack), taking up precious load space, while the splittailgate,ontest,wasanopen-andshut case – press the button once to drop the lot, or twice to split it. Sometimes it went to script, others not so.

Up in size compared to the ICE Cannon ute, just shy of five-and-a-half metres long (13.1m turning circle), with a tidy 3350mm wheelbase, the Cannon Alpha leaves Ranger, D-Max and HiLux in the shade. A panoramic sunroof, on the other hand, opens up the cabin to the great outdoors.

Interior

TheCannonAlphaUltraPHEVisdecidedly commercial vehicle plush, with quality features including leather accented seats, driver’s seat eight-way electric adjustment, front passenger seat six ways, heated/ ventilated/massage front seats.

Heated/ventilated rear outer seats have a recline function and two-way electric adjustment. Surprisingly, leg room is not limited by the adjustments. Oh, and there’s a heated steering wheel and a twee analogue clock in the centre stack. Up front, decor is de rigueur for a big ute withpanellingacrossthedashboard,while piano black and satin metallic-looking section are suckers for smudges and spots. Cupholders take up positions down near thecentreconsole,andawirelesscharging pad under a sliding panel. Power outlets are easy to get at.

Infotainment

The Lux grade includes 360-degree view monitor, 12.3-inch full-colour driver instrument cluster and similar-size touch screeninfotainmentsystem,wirelessApple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, plus front and rear USB outlets

Ultra adds nice touches with a 14.6-inch full-colour touchscreen infotainment system in place of the Lux 12.3-inch display.

Also upgraded are premium Infinity audio system with 10 speakers and amplifier, wireless phone charger (front and rear) and head-up windscreen display. There are physical controls on the steeringwheel,andvolumecontrolsonthe swipe-down, but a volume knob wouldn’t go astray.

RATINGS

Looks: 7

Performance: 6

Safety: 8

Thirst: 7

Practicality: 8

Comfort: 7

Tech: 8

Value: 8

The Cannon Alpha plug-in hybrid’s infotainment system does allow for a lot of special controls around the powertrain – camping modes, power preservation, charging cycles and energy consumption.

Engines/transmissions

Powered by GWM’s Hi4-T Plug-in Hybrid EV technology and equipped with a 37.1kWhternarylithiumbattery,the2-litre turbo-petrol engine delivers a combined 300kW of power and 750Nm of torque.

The two ternary lithium batteries under the Cannon Alpha of 15.2kWh and 21.9kWh add up to total battery capacity of 37.11kWh.

Paired with GWM’s nine-speed automatic transmission, it offers up to 110km of pure EV driving range, with a combined range of 880km – 10 per cent more than its nearest rival.

GWM’s 9AT gearbox is no bigger than a conventional six-speed auto. Despite this, the unit achieves an impressive 97 per cent efficiency by utilising a lower viscosity gearbox oil and is engineered to handle a maximum of 750Nm.

Safety

The all-new Cannon Alpha PHEV has received the maximum five-star safety rating from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program, following months of close collaboration between GWM and ANCAP.

Contributing to the top rating are seven airbags, autonomous emergency braking, AEB junction assist, lane change assist and lane keeping assist, hill descent control and rear collision warning.

Driving

For a start (literally), setting off in the Cannon Alpha PHEV can be something of a mystery with acceleration – from pedestrian to spritely – out of proportion to the pressure on the pedal. Initial response was not without a deal of lag.

Open road fuel consumption on test was recorded at 26.8kWh per 100km and 0.7 litres per 100km. The multimedia screen displays charging status and time, as does the GWM app. Filling the fuel tank with petrol is per ICE vehicles.

The system has multiple modes to suit drive conditions such as EV priority, full EV and intelligent modes. The Hi4T technology allows the engine to remain in EV mode in 4×4 high range mode, in addition to supporting EV-only driving at highway speeds, a first for the segment.

Alpha PHEV in EV mode is primarily rear-wheel drive. Lock into 4x4 and the transfer case directs a 50:50 split

front-to-rear.Offroad,4x4iseasilyengaged via a centre-console push button.

The battery supports DC fast charging of up to 50kW, enabling a rapid 30 to 80 per centchargeinjust26minutes.Whenusing an AC home charger, the battery recharges from near empty to full in approximately 6.5 hours.

Vehicle-to-load (V2L) capabilities of up to 3.3kW output is included and enables the Cannon Alpha to provide AC power to devices and some home appliances.

Class-leading 3500kg maximum braked

towing capacity is carried over from ICE models, while an impressive 800mm water wading depth and 224mm of ground clearance ensure flexibility and versatility.

Summary

For those wishing to take an each-way bet on electric vehicles taking over the automotiveworldandwithpubliccharging infrastructure lagging, the plug-in hybrid – external chargeable electric power with ICE back-up – is an early favourite and the GWM Alpha PHEV well handicapped.

Great Wall Motors has shot its big ute into a leading spot in the segment. (Pictures: Supplied)

Three in a row for Grubbers

Ocean Grove claimed three successive A Grade premierships with a thrilling one-goal win against Geelong Amateur. Independent photographer Ivan Kemp was at Grinter Reserve to see it unfold in an epic finish with a goal to Zanna Woods right on the final siren to win the game.

Arlee Bennett leaps for the ball, and right, Gemma Bell takes the ball out of defence.

Emily Moroney is assisted from the court after injuring her knee.

Kaitlyn Sheringham won the MVP award for the final.

Left to right: Kim Hammond top scored for Ammos with 41 goals; Louise Shaw takes control of the ball; Keisha Guilmartin passes out of defence; Emily Moroney looks for a teammate. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 501560

Georgia Berry wins this contest against Kim Hammond.

Georgia Duncan takes possession in a contest with Claudia Britt.

Zanna Woods shoots one of her 42 goals.

Emma Jones just keeps the ball in play.

Georgia Duncan takes control.

26-year drought broken

Anglesea broke a 26-year premiership drought by defeating Geelong Amateur in the Bellarine Football League grand final. Independent photographer Ivan Kemp was at Grinter Reserve to capture these pics.

Liam Cogan marks on his chest. 501558_05

Above: Harry Kershaw marks strongly. 501558_06

Left: Hamish Shepheard is caught up in a tackle. 501558_12

Above: Joe Maishman gets his kick away. 501558_11 Right: Simon Umbers takes a strong mark in the centre. 501558_19

Lachie Smith finds some space. 501558_22

Harrison Ling puts a strong tackle on Tom Gribble. 501558_20

Tevan Nofi marks in front of teammate Harrison Ling. 501558_23

Jordan Keras is tackled by Joe Maishman. 501558_25

Left: Camdyn Hutchinson marks up forward. 501558_24 Centre: Dale Kerr breaks free. 501558_16 Right: Dan Weigl handballs while being tackled by Jordan Keras. 501558_18

Cats purring for the prelim

Gryan Miers heard the noise, that Geelong had as easy run into the AFL finals and they might be vulnerable.

So the impressive qualifying-final win over reigning premiers Brisbane was important validation for Miers and his Cats teammates, setting them up superbly for Friday night’s blockbuster preliminary final against arch-rivals Hawthorn.

While Geelong took a six-game winning streak into the Brisbane game, they were all against teams outside the finals.

Their previous match against another top-eight side was also their most recent loss, to GWS in round 19.

“It was huge for us - I heard all that noise and there were doubts within your own head, of how the preparation is and what we’re doing,“ Miers said of their finals build-up.

“We delivered those six weeks really well ... each game, it wasn’t like we were (playing) a team less than us, we had to do it the right way.

“We were prepared on that Friday night against Brisbane, that if the game looked very different, we could deliver.

“I don’t think it was the way we scripted it, but we delivered right when it mattered. We did a great job.”

Many AFL players can only dream of where Miers is now, one game away from the grand final.

Incredibly, this is the midfielder’s sixth preliminary final in 153 games over seven seasons - indicative of Geelong’s extraordinary consistency over the past two decades.

After playing in the losing grand final sideagainstRichmondin2020,hewaspart

oftheteamthatsmashedSydneytowinthe 2022 premiership.

“Itisabitofnormalityforme...hopefully (we) get the record back to 3-3,” Miers said.

Geelong led until late in last year’s preliminary final loss to the Lions, and Miers said they had learned their lessons.

“We’ve put ourselves probably in a better position this year to finish off that kind of stuff, that we didn’t do last year” he said.

“We really failed in some games last year,whereaswehaven’tthisyear.I’mvery confident in what we can produce, and last year has also helped what we’ll be able to do.”

Preliminary finals are said to be the hardest games to win, and Miers acknowledged there is a different feel ahead of this week’s game.

“There’s definitely a different energy - it’s

Grovedale snares two premiership titles

LOCAL TENNIS

Grovedale had the best representation in TennisGeelong’sSaturdaySeniorPennant grand finals, participating in four finals and being successful in two.

Itwouldhavebeenunderstandableifthe minor premiers of 2 Open were nervous going into their match with Ocean Grove White, with their last two matches being decided on games, but the youngsters weren’t going to be deterred.

Eliott Feruglio-Tai put Grovedale on the right track winning the first singles 6-2, 6-0, but Adam Golding and Ethan Franks pulledoutaclosewinforOceanGrove7-6, 6-4inthedoubles.Thematchwashanging in the balance through the second singles and doubles, but Grovedale made it over the line with Lachie Rae prevailing in the singles 6-3, 7-5 and Fergulio-Tai and Zane Ryan in the doubles 7-6, 6-4. The final result, three rubbers to one.

Hamlyn Park had two wins over minor premiersGrovedaleBlackin3Openbefore Black won the semi, so the grand final could have gone either way, and things couldn’t have been closer.

Andre Attard put Grovedale on the board with a 6-0, 6-0 win, but Hamlyn Park countered in the doubles with Xavier WilloughbyandLachieSmithwinning6-4, 6-2. Grovedale looked to be in the box seat with Jaylen Sach taking the first set in the singles and Attard teaming with brother Beautodothesameinthedoubles,butthe Park weren’t going away, with Willoughby winning the second set of the singles in a tie-break, as did Smith and Flynn Stewart in the doubles.

Thematchcamedowntowhocouldhold their nerve in the super-tie-breaks, and Sach got to the line 10-3, while the doubles wastight,withHamlynParkwinning10-8. The final result – two rubbers all, four sets all, but Grovedale by 11 games.

Surfcoast Torquay managed two wins from three outings and they did it in fine style with both 2 and 3 Mixed taking 5-1 wins. 3 Mixed had big wins over Wandana Heights in all of their three matches, and the final was no different while 2 Mixed followed up on their big 6-0 semi-final win over Lara White.

Torquay didn’t fare so well in 1 Open going down to third-placed Highton Blue, in yet another cliffhanger. Michael Hili and Rhys McNabb, both unbeaten in singles, faced off with McNabb winning in two tie-breaks for Highton.

Highton’sBrodieSpongandJuliusBusch backedthatupwithawinoftheirown6-0, 6-4 to put the pressure on Torquay. Ryan Costello kept Surfcoast in the match with

a comfortable 6-1, 6-1 win, leaving the doubles to determine the result.

HiliandLachieHindlelookedsettotake a come-from-behind win taking the first set 7-6, but McNabb and Lily Duff fought backtotakethesecond6-2withthematch to be decided by the super tie-break – and super it was with Highton winning 23-21 to take the rubber and a win for the day to Highton Blue.

Highton had two other teams in play, but Ocean Grove proved too good in 4 Open with the team of Raf Berra, Kade Robinson, Daniel Golightly and Jaime Warren winning 3-1, and Highton Gold unable to match it with minor premiers Newcomb with Peppe Scorpo, Chris Higgins, Rasmus Haaima and David Kos taking a 5-1 win.

St Leonards overcame their one hiccup for the season in the semi-final against Bannockburn. The one-game loss spurred the team of Rachel Knez, Wayne Bulman, Cleta Forrest, Andy Smith and Ranie Daw to turn the tables for a 5-1 win.

Geelong Lawn backed up their minor

fantastic,”hesaid.“Whenyouwinthatfirst week, you have two weeks to build into it. Some nights you’re confident, some nights you’re nervous.

“Thereisabitofachange-up,gettingthat mentality right. The intensity is higher, but the coolest head always prevails ... you just have to stay calm.

“Maybe we’ve gotten it wrong in the past ... because of our experience, and we’ve been in this situation exactly 12 months ago, it’s been fantastic.”

Miers also is grateful that, unlike last year, they are the first of the two preliminary finals. Collingwood will then host Brisbane on Saturday at the MCG.

“Last year we were in the reverse and I actually didn’t enjoy the Friday night,” he said. “It is good to know our result and know what’s happening first.” - AAP

Moody appointed assistant coach

Geelong Venom has appointed Megan Moody as an assistant coach for the upcoming WNBL season.

Moody brings a wealth of experience and success to the Venom program, having recently been named the NBL1 South Coach of the Year after guiding Geelong United’s women’s team through a standout campaign.

Alongside her on-court achievements, she also serves as the General Manager of Pathways at Geelong United Basketball, where she plays a key role in developing opportunities for athletes across the region.

Moody said the move into the WNBL represented both a personal and professional milestone.

“When I first stepped into the NBL1 role, I honestly didn’t know if I was ready or if coaching was where I wanted to be again,” she said.

premiershipwitha3-1winoverGrovedale in 5 Open. Alex Tiddlacka kicked off with a win in the singles while Sophie Bruenjes and Aria Young followed suit in the doubles. Tiddlacka and Young backed up in the doubles with a straight sets win to secure the match.

Western Heights Uniting went through as unbeaten champions in 2 Men with their win over Bannockburn. Pierce Johnson managed to take two sets for Banno for the day, but Jeff Smith, Daniel Payne, Andrew Ryan, Kaleb Alger and TomCrosbiecontinuedtheirwinningway, taking the day four sets to two.

Section 1 Mixed saw Wandana Heights comefrombehindtotakeafour-gamewin over Grovedale

The first two mixed were split, before Grovedale prevailed in the men’s and women’s doubles giving them a 3-1 lead going into the reverse mixed. Wandana brought their A game with Natalie Killeen and Hamish McNaughton winning the fifth 6-4 and Anne Schulz and Paul Dean sealingthewin,gettingup6-2inthesixth.

“But that season really reignited mypassion- Ilovedworkingwiththe group, and the players made it such a rewarding experience.

“To now have the opportunity to step into the WNBL and contribute to the Venom in their first season is something I’m really proud of. It’s an exciting time for the club, for women’s basketball in Geelong, and for our community.

“I feel really fortunate to work alongside Chris Lucas, someone with enormousexperienceandknowledge of the game. I know I’ll learn a lot in this role while also bringing my own perspective and energy to the program.

“Being part of both the pathways side of the sport and now the elite level gives me a unique perspective. I’m passionate about creating opportunities for players in our region to see what’s possible, and the Venom are a huge part of that vision.”

Donna Schoenmaekers

SS1X Premiers Wandana Heights: Tamika Hodge, Anna Schulz, Paul Dean, Natalie Killeen, Hamish McNaughton.

SS2O Premiers Grovedale: Eliott Feruglio-Tai, Lachie Rae, Zane Ryan.

SS1O Premiers Highton Blue: Rhys McNabb, Julius Busch, Brodie Spong, Lily Duff.

Geelong Venom assistant coach Megan Moody. (Supplied)

Manning, Harrison winners

Queensland’s Zoe Manning and WA’s Carl Harrison won the Surf Coast Century ultra marathon on Saturday September 13 with 1400 runners participating in the 100km and50kmtrailrunningevents.

Half the field competed in the 100km or 50km events as solo runners while the remaining competitors participated in a relay team of two, three, or four runners covering approximately 25km each of the 100kmcourse.

HarrisonandManningwerecrownedthe 100km ultra marathon champions, placing first and second overall in times of 09:01:45 and09:15:25,respectively.

Harrison’s incredible win comes off the back of winning the Margaret River Ultra Marathon(80km)earlierthisyear.

“It was the greatest start, I was feeling reallyfreshalongthebeachandthroughthe

rock hopping, but as I reached leg 3 it was a killer,”Harrisonsaid.

“I took the lead early on and didn’t expect to be running the remaining kilometres by myself–luckyitwasbeautifuloutthere.”

Coming in second overall in the men’s field was Matty Tyndall in 09:25:19; and 9 minutes behind in third place was Dale Nimmoin09:34:34.

Meanwhile, hot on Harrison’s heels was thequalityperformancebyManning,atjust 23yearsoldandtakingoutherfirstultrawin inonlyhersecondattemptatthedistance.

“It was a stunning course, I’ve never really run in this type of environment before so it was something new to try and definitely worth it – it was such an amazing experience;butithurtalot,”shesaid.

Yve Brady (09:40:57) came runner-up second female with Lauren Frisken in third (10:44:30).

Equally as impressive were the winners of the 50km ultra event, won by Aidan Ford (04:01:00) and Jade Bucklow (04:39:44) who werebothfirst-timeultraracecompetitors.

Disappointment turns to hope for Angelique

By Justin Flynn BelmontLionsco-captainAngelique

Ross has remained upbeat after rupturing her ACL in the Geelong & DistrictNetballLeaguesecond-semi final.

Ross will miss this Saturday’s grand final against Thomson and whiletheinitialdisappointmentwas difficult to shake off, the 22-year-old goalersaidshehadtomoveonpretty quickly for the sake of her team.

“I’m really, truly devastated,” she said. “It’s been a hard two weeks, coming up on two weeks to be (injured) when a grand final comes around.

“But I (take the) focus off me, (and) focus on the girls now. We’re a team, on and off the court, so it doesn’t matter what happens, I’m still part of the team.

“I’ll be there cheering, loud, very, very loud. I have no doubt that they’re going to get it done, with or without me.”

Ross obviously missed the preliminary final win against Inverleigh, but coach Shayna Brown returned to fill the void while the Lions could also turn to Zoe SaundersorTeganEdwardsandEllaWasik remainsasakeyfocalpointinthegoalring.

Ross’ twin sister Yianna plays in the same team at wing defence and said taking tothecourtonSaturdaywithoutAngelique would be tough.

“We joined (the club) when we were 19 and I’ve never actually played a Belmont game without Angelique besides last weekend,” she said. “That’s her first time missing out on a game in four years and trust me, she would be out there if it was anything but what she’s got, unfortunately.

“It obviously devastated us when we saw her go down in that first qualifying final. It’s been a tough week in our household with Angelique.

“Netball is everything to her, but she’s

our captain and we know that we just have to get out there and we’re going to do it for her and for us.”

Yiannasaidhersisterwasahypedupfan during the preliminary final.

“Shehadredmarksalldownherlegfrom

clappingaroundherlegsbecauseshe’salso got a broken hand,” she said.

“She’s the team’s biggest supporter and she always will be and she just wants the best for this team because that’s just the type of person my sister is.”

Joeys leap into GFL grand final after beating Colac

St Joseph’s became the first team into the Geelong Football League grand final with a 17-point win against Colac in the second semi-final at Geelong West on Saturday.

After a dour first term, the game opened up slightly in the second term with Joeys holding a six-point buffer going into the second half.

A five goal to two third quarter had St Joseph’s up by 20 heading into the last, but each side would boot two majors in the final 30 minutes with Joeys holding on and going straight into the grand final. Ruckman Joe Chaplin played superbly

for Joeys and Joel Edwards booted three goals.

“It was a quick game; I wouldn’t have thought it was the most brilliant spectacle if you’re looking for a skilful game,” coach Ron Watt told krockfootball.live after the game.

“But if you’re looking for a contest – and there’s plenty of people here – I think they would have gone away pretty happy.”

Colac gets another chance this Saturday in the preliminary final after St Mary’s ended Newtown & Chilwell’s season in straight sets with a 25-point win.

MichaelRuddwaseverywhereindefence for the Saints and captain Jack Blood got involved in as many contests as he could. MitchDiamondwastheEagles’bestwith a good game in defence.

PRELIMINARY FINALS

Saturday September 20, West Oval, Geelong West

Seniors: Colac vs St Mary’s, 2.10pm

Reserves: South Barwon vs St Mary’s, 11.45am

Under 18 Division 1: Torquay vs Ocean Grove, 9.45am

St Joseph’s outclass Eagles

St Joseph’s led all game to book a spot in the Geelong Netball League

A Grade grand final, toppling minor premier Newtown & Chilwell at Geelong West on Saturday.

St Joseph’s increased its lead at each of the first three breaks, leading by five, then seven and then eight to run out 46 to 41 winners.

St Joseph’s is the only team to beat the Eagles this season. Ella Closter was a focal point in attack for Joeys with 37 goals.

All is not lost for Newtown & Chilwell with the reigning premiers meeting Geelong West Giants in the preliminary final this week to earn another crack at Joeys. The Giants continued their barnstorming run with a 45 to 42 against South Barwon in the first semi-final.

WithskipperAleishaMcDonald(35 goals) in form around the goal ring andRachelPalmer-Brennan(10goals from 12 attempts) providing fine support, the young Giants can dare to dream. With 40 seconds to go, the Giants led by one and were playing a possession game, trying to deny South Barwon the ball.

McDonald scored to put the game beyond doubt and the Giants are now one win away from a grand final.

PRELIMINARY FINALS

Saturday September 20, West Oval, Geelong West

A Grade: Newtown & Chilwell vs Geelong West Giants, 2.30pm

B Grade: Newtown & Chilwell vs St Mary’s, 12.55pm

C Grade: South Barwon vs Leopold, 11.45am

D Grade: South Barwon vs Newtown & Chilwell, 10.35am

E Grade: Leopold vs St Mary’s, 2.05pm

19 & Under: South Barwon vs Bell Park, 12.55pm 17 & Under Division 1: SouthBarwon vs Newtown & Chilwell, 10.35am

17&UnderDivision2: SouthBarwon vs Newtown & Chilwell, 11.45am

15&UnderDivision1: SouthBarwon vs St Mary’s, 9.35am 15 & Under Division 2: Bell Park vs South Barwon, 9.35am

13&UnderDivision1: SouthBarwon vs Colac, 8.30am

13&UnderDivision2: SouthBarwon vs St Joseph’s, 8.30am

Main: Angelique Ross is out of this weekend’s grand

with ruptured

Inset: Yianna Ross battles Jenelle Baker in this contest. (Ivan Kemp) 475550_07

Amy Edwards was second and Sarah Foster was third in the women’s field while Daniel Armstrong and Tom Noble rounded out the male 50km podium within just 10minutesofFord.

Zoe Manning and Carl Harrison. (Pictures: Rapid Ascent and Photos4Sale)

26-year drought finally over

By Justin Flynn

Anglesea came from 5th on the ladder to toppleminorpremiersGeelongAmateurto win its first Bellarine Football League flag in 26 years at Newcomb’s Grinter Reserve on Saturday.

In a game that lived up to the hype, Max Virgona ran into an open goal and slotted through the match winner to put the Seas 13 points at the 29-minute mark. Final scores Anglesea 14.10(94) to Geelong Amateur 12.9(81).

Both star forwards were kept quiet with the Roos’ Ayden Gras and Ammos’ Mitch Day booting a goal each.

Instead it was Will Batson and Josh Finch Medallist Harrison Ling that hit the scoreboard for Anglesea with three majors each.

Anglesea wasn’t even certain of even playing finals until a behind by Batson in the final round earned the club a draw against Queenscliff and 5th spot on the ladder.

Finals wins against Drysdale, Queenscliff, Torquay and finally Geelong Amateur meant the Roos did it the hard way, which made it all the more special.

“Special community, special club,” coach Jordan Keras said after the game.

“So proud of you, I honestly don’t tell you enough, I love you boys and we’ve got something special together forever now so

we’ll just enjoy it tonight. I’m so proud of you boys.”

Anglesea started the game well, leading by 17 points at quarter time and by the same margin at the long break.

But Ammos were not done. A six goal to two third term turned the game around and suddenly they led by a goal with a quarter to go.

Co-coach Sam Lloyd booted two majors in the third including one to put Ammos in front at the 27-minute mark.

DanWeiglwasaconstantaerialthreatin defence as Ammos gained the ascendancy.

Angleseahitbacktheleadearlyinthelast

as Batson booted the first of his two goals for the quarter and he would add another in the 19th minute for a four-point lead.

Declan Everett made it 10 points the difference a minute later, but Archer Hanegraaf goaled and reduced the margin to four, setting up an epic finish.

Three consecutive behinds pushed the marginouttosevenpointsbeforeVirgona’s goal sealed the win right in front of a huge pocket of Seas supporters.

GRAND FINALS

Saturday September 13, Grinter Reserve, Newcomb

Seniors Anglesea 5.2(32), 8.4(52), 10.6(66), 14.10(94)

Geelong Amateur 2.3(15), 5.5(35), 11.6(72), 12.9(81)

GOALS: Anglesea - Harrison Ling 3, Will Batson 3, Declan Everett, Dale Kerr, Josh King, Max Virgona, Jack Walters, Noah Collins, Ayden Gras, Simon Umbers. Geelong Amateur - Sam Lloyd 3, Archer Hanegraaf, Joe Maishman, Lachlan Rielly, Charley Green, Luke Hillier, Tom Gribble, Mitch Day, Blake Sutterby, Harry Kershaw. BEST: Anglesea - Harrison Ling, Camdyn Hutchinson, Will Batson, Jordan Keras, Tevan Nofi, Sam Leeds. Geelong Amateur - Daniel Weigl, Joe Maishman, Riley Ferguson, Daniel Grose, Archer Hanegraaf, Hamish Shepheard.

Reserves

Geelong Amateur 1.2(8), 2.6(18), 5.9(39), 6.12(48)

Torquay 3.0(18), 5.2(32), 5.2(32), 6.3(39)

GOALS: Geelong Amateur - Tom Gorell 2, Riley Mattner 2, Cody Diana, Darby Edwards. Torquay - Sam Hooper 2, Lucas Renfrey, Harrison Goode, James Ward. BEST: Geelong Amateur - Cody Diana, Tom Gorell, Nick Maishman, Jacob Edwards, Jack Pickering, Riley Mattner. Torquay - Vivian McCarthy, Tyler Emmerson, Joe Darby, Harrison Goode, Brendan Carlyon, Lucas Renfrey.

Three-peat for Ocean Grove in thrilling win on the siren

By Justin Flynn

Ocean Grove claimed a stunning three-peat in one of the most memorable Bellarine Netball League A Grade grand finals in history.

A turnover by Georgia Berry allowed Zanna Woods to shoot the winning goal right on the full-time siren in an epic 53 to 52 win against Geelong Amateur.

This game had everything. Two players were sent off for two minutes, Grove co-captain Emily Moroney suffered a suspected ACL injury, both goal shooters seeminglycouldn’tmiss,theleadchanged multiple times and it was a thriller right to the final second.

The win made it three consecutive A Grade flags for the Grubbers.

Ocean Grove played almost the entire second half with three B Graders - Claudia Britt, Emma Jones and Mia Smith - on the court.

“Elated, can’t believe it, absolutely thrilled,” coach Mel Holmes said straight after the game.

“That was a roller coaster, but I’m so proudofeveryone.Itwasarealteameffort.

“We had to throw everything at it. Just mixing up our starting line-up, having full belief and the ability to bring up B Graders who mean something to this club.

“This is what it’s all about - this community and I’m so thrilled.”

ItwasacoachingmasterclassbyHolmes, not only by bringing up reinforcements, but having to make changes during the game at critical moments.

Grove’sGemmaBellandAmmos’Keisha Guilmartin were both sent from the court for two minutes just when their teams had the momentum.

Woods shot 42 goals from 44 attempts while at the other end Kim Hammond scored 41 from 46. However, both Guilmartin and Berry made the two goal aces earn every shot.

Ammos led by one with a minute remaining, but Woods tied the scores with 30 seconds left on the clock.

Ammos had the next centre pass, but

Berry caused a turnover and it looked like the game was headed to overtime.

But the Grubbers rushed the ball forward and Woods was able to calmly slot her 42nd goal as the siren sounded to signal an epic win.

The loss cannot take away what Geelong Amateur has been able to achieve. It was the A Grade side’s 10 consecutive grand final while the club had eight other teams in the senior and junior deciders with B Grade, E Grade, 15 & Under Division 1 and 13 & Under Division 2 all winning premierships.

It must have been a bittersweet moment for Moroney, who was playing well at centre when she went down with what could be a serious knee injury in the second quarter. She was on crutches after the game and had to be helped onto the dais to accept her medal.

“Pretty surreal, the last few moments of the game was incredible,” she said.

“To use everyone on the bencheveryone came on and played their role exactly the way we wanted them to do - so, so proud of all of them.

“It just shows how strong our depth is and how much belief we have as well.”

Fellow co-captain Woods said she didn’t know how much time was left when she

slotted through the match-winning goal.

“I knew that it was getting close by the yelling,” she said.

“I knew that with that intercept we’d get the ball, but I didn’t know.”

WoodssaidMoroney’sinjurygalvanised the team.

“You could see it on our faces when Em went down - she knew it, we knew it,” she said.

“She’s been a captain of ours for years. She’s heart and soul for us so I said to the girls ‘the game changes, now it’s for Em’.

“Absolute elation - I wouldn’t call it disbelief because I always knew we could do it, but it just feels so surreal.

“Ammos played so well. If we had lost, I could have lost knowing we lost to a better side,buttopullthatoutinthatlastbitwith three B Graders on court, it just shows the depth of our club and the belief we have in each other.”

GRAND FINALS

Saturday September 13, Grinter Reserve, Newcomb

A Grade: Ocean Grove 53 def Geelong Amateur 52. Best on court: Kaitlyn Sheringham (Geelong Amateur)

B Grade: Geelong Amateur 51 def Anglesea 30. Best on court: Jess Kelly

(Geelong Amateur)

C Grade: Ocean Grove 39 def Torquay 29. Best on court: Sofia Dickinson (Ocean Grove)

D Grade: Barwon Heads 28 def Geelong Amateur 24. Best on court: Darcy Smith (Barwon Heads)

E Grade: Geelong Amateur 38 def Ocean Grove 24. Best on court: Lauren McAuley (Geelong Amateur)

19 & Under: Drysdale 34 def Portarlington 34. Best on court: Jade Wilson (Drysdale)

17 & Under Division 1: Ocean Grove 37 def Geelong Amateur 21. Best on court: Ella Brown (Ocean Grove)

17 & Under Division 2: Torquay 19 def Geelong Amateur 15. Best on court: Mackinley Bragge (Torquay)

15 & Under Division 1: Geelong Amateur 31 def Torquay 12. Best on court: Macey Dow (Geelong Amateur)

15 & Under Division 2: Torquay 26 def Ocean Grove 22. Best on court: Millie Binnion (Torquay)

13 & Under Division 1: Torquay 28 def Geelong Amateur 24. Best on court: Harriet O’Dwyer (Torquay) 13 & Under Division 2: Geelong Amateur 21 def Ocean Grove 13. Best on court: Alice Harmon (Geelong Amateur)

Left: The winning team celebrates. Centre: Georgia Berry repels the last Ammos attack. Right: Zanna Woods shoots the winning goal with two seconds to go. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 501560

Left: Dale Kerr with Anglesea legend Craig Leeman, who played more than 500 games across nearly four decades for the club. Right: Dylan Featon and Lachie Smith with the premiership cup.

(Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 501558

North vs East in grand final

By Justin Flynn

North Geelong’s stunning rise from the depths of the ladder in 2023 to Geelong & District League grand finalists comes as no surprise for captain Zac Schwennesen, although he didn’t think it would be this rapid.

The Magpies find themselves in the grand final this Saturday against East Geelong with only a final-round win in 2023 avoiding a wooden spoon.

Last year, North finished outside the top fivebyatinyamountofpercentageandthis year is on the verge of a first flag since 2013.

“When Ricco (coach Peter Riccardi) first come on, I thought he’d take us in a different direction,” Schwennesen said.

“But I didn’t think it’d happen as quickly as it has. It’s been a crazy shift to being that one-winteamtwoyearsagotonowplaying off in a grand final – it’s unreal.

“We’ve got to be proud of where we’re at as a club, for how far we’ve come so quickly.”

The Magpies prevailed in the second semi-final to book a direct path to the decider. They have beaten East Geelong all three times they have played them this season.

“We’re pretty evenly matched sides, in my viewing,” Schwennesen said.

“We’ve both got outlet runners that can run. We’ve got our inside players that play well. We’ve also got two big forwards running around that would love to get on the end of a few goals.

“I think we match up really well with each other, so it’s just about who comes out and plays their best footy at the end of the day, I think.”

North Geelong had a down patch from rounds 11 to 14, losing three from four. Rather than dwell on the losses, Schwennesen said the Pies looked at them from a learning perspective. The team’s formhasimprovedtowardsthebackendof the season.

“Just sticking to what we know works, I think,” Schwennesen said.

“We looked at it as if it was all learning curves rather than a lull in the season. Every time we had a tough loss we hit the review pretty hard on the Tuesday night and came up with everything we could to not let it happen again.

“So since then, we’ve just been working on the things that work best for us at training and implementing them on a Saturday.”

East Geelong skipper John McIntyre said his side was ready to go.

“I think our strength is probably our backline is rock solid,” he said. “But in saying that, if we don’t pressure the ball up the ground and they’re able to kick it in with no pressure, I mean they’re going to struggle to hold them to a low score.

“So I think we’re going to have to be better in the midfield than what we have been against them.”

WhiletheEaglesarenostrangerstofinals footy, McIntyre said that was no advantage on Saturday. East’s last premiership came back in 2009.

“Ithinkafterthefirst10minutesthesting sort of goes out of the game a little bit and it just falls back a general standard game,” he said. “I thought maybe that could have helped us when we played North the first time because they hadn’t played finals in a while and they came out beat us. I can’t see

it being a major factor.”

Big forward Zac Smith responded from a goallesssecondsemi-finaltobootsixinthe prelim.

“It was good to see him get on the end of a few,” McIntyre said.

“I reckon he was robbed of a couple as wellsoheprobablyshouldhavehadatleast seven on board, but six is a bloody good return in a final.

“It’s good to see him bounce back after a performance he’s probably disappointed with against North.”

While the Eagles will go in as slight underdogs, McIntyre said both sides matched up evenly.

“I think last time we played them, both teams had enough momentum to probably win the game,” he said.

“They just took their chances when they had them and we weren’t able to come back. If we can capitalise on our moments, I think we’re every chance.”

GRAND FINALS

SaturdaySeptember20,StAlbansReserve

Seniors: North Geelong vs East Geelong, 2.15pm

Reserves: East Geelong vs Werribee Centrals, 11.45am

Under 18 Division 3: South Barwon vs Torquay, 9.30am

Lions and Tigers to clash in huge A Grade grand final

By Justin Flynn

Thomson captain Amelia Jarvis knows that this Saturday’s Geelong & District NetballLeagueAGradegrandfinalagainst Belmont Lions probably won’t mirror the second semi-final of two weeks ago.

In that game, the Tigers smashed the Lions 68 to 25, to advance directly to the decider, but Jarvis said she was expecting a different game this week.

Thomson started the game slowly, but then an early injury to Angelique Ross put the Lions on the back foot early.

“I feel like we came out of the blocks probably a touch slow that game and then once we got one intercept we then started building and started creating a bit of that dominancewithinthatfirstquarter,”Jarvis said.

“Then an unfortunate injury to Belmont (Ross)andthenwecontinuedtobuildafter that.

“This week coming, we just need to come out of the blocks a bit quicker, a bit stronger, a bit hungrier and be ready from that first whistle.”

Jarvis said the week off came at a great time for her personally.

“Some of the girls probably might not agree, but personally I do love a week off,” she said.

“It just allows you time to reset, adjust somemindsetsifyouneedto,andalsohave another squizz at them against a different opponent as well so that was nice.”

While Thomson will enter the game as favourites, Jarvis said both teams deserved to be there.

“There’s always got to be a favourite - I’m happy to be favourite,” she said.

“We’ve been the two best teams this season so I think it’s honestly a level playing field. Scrap everything else that’s

happened, it’s an absolutely level playing field going into Saturday.”

The Tigers have two strong focal points in attack in Bree Caldwell and Emma Witham.

“I played with Bree at Anglesea and our connection is always on, it’s always good,” midcourter Jarvis said.

“She’s like the Scott Pendlebury of the comp - time stops when she catches the ball and she’s able just to move really well.

“And then Emma, her attitude, her ability, her athleticism. She does so much that not many people actually give her credit for. She’s absolutely the best player out there at the moment and one to watch on Saturday.”

While Thomson has recent grand final experience, Jarvis said things were slightly

different this time around.

“We’re a completely different team,” she said.

“We’ve got a lot of people that don’t have muchfinalsexperienceandthere’sacouple of us that have played in a grand final, but I don’t think any of us have actually won an A Grade final. We’re all as hungry as each other.”

Belmont Lions co-captain Angelique Ross will miss the game with a ruptured ACL (see story page 33), but said her team has benefitted from playing each week in thefinalsseriesandwasveryhappytohave underdog status.

“Welovethattitle,don’tmindthatatall,” she said.

“We’ve had our pressure, we’ve had our battles, we’ve come across adversity, like

injuries, so we’ve done it the hard way (and now there’s) one to go.”

The Lions were active on the recruiting front,bringingincoachShaynaBrownand Webb Medallist Molly Gribble from Corio and goaler Ella Wasik from Bannockburn.

“It’s always nice when you get talent wanting to join your club,” co-captain Sophie Allison said.

“It means you’ve obviously got a good culture and people are wanting to come and you’re never going to say no to a Molly Gribble or an Ella Wasik coming across.

“They’ve been really good additions and they’ve really brought into what we’re about.”

Allison said the team had already put aside the disappointing semi-final performance and backed it up with a superb prelim final against Inverleigh.

“I think we were nervous, but we go in with nothing to lose and everything to prove and we’ve got the whole club behind us so it is really exciting,” she said.

“It was a good test for us, a good opportunity for us to show our mental resilience and come back.”

GRAND FINALS

SaturdaySeptember20,StAlbansReserve

A Grade: Thomson vs Belmont Lions, 1.45pm

B Grade: Thomson vs Inverleigh, noon

C Grade: East Geelong vs North Geelong, 11am

D Grade: Inverleigh vs East Geelong, 10am

E Grade: East Geelong vs Inverleigh, noon

19 & Under: Bannockburn vs Bell Post Hill, 9am

17 & Under: East Geelong vs Werribee Centrals, 8am

15 & Under: Bannockburn vs Anakie, 9am

13 & Under: Inverleigh vs East Geelong, 8am

Thomson captain Amelia Jarvis and Belmont Lions co-captains Angelique Ross and Sophie Allison with the Buckleys Cup. (Ivan Kemp) 503310_05

North Geelong captain Zac Schwennesen and East Geelong skipper John McIntyre at St Albans Reserve on Monday. (Ivan Kemp) 503310_13