August 28, 2026
We are
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Geelong Our ‘We are Geelong’ 12 page wrap shows the best on offer in our great city of Geelong. Open up and take a look!
Life by the Coast, Your Way The Breeze Retirement Village Point Lonsdale is nestled on the Point Estate waterways. We offer premium Villas and Apartments designed for comfort, independence and low maintenanceliving. Enjoy beautifully landscaped grounds, exceptional community facilities and a relaxed coastal lifestyle just moments from beaches, cafés and local amenities.
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REALISE YOUR POTENTIAL Lara Secondary College empowers students to achieve their full potential through strong academic programs, leadership opportunities, sport and extracurricular experiences. ✓ Enrichment & High Ability Programs ✓ Rugby Union & Cricket Academies ✓ Student Leadership Opportunities ✓ Supportive & Connected School Community With invested teachers, focused classrooms and a strong sense of belonging, Lara Secondary College is helping students grow with confidence and purpose. Book a tour today and discover all Lara Secondary College has to offer.
34 Alkara Ave, Lara VIC 3212 (03) 5282 8988 https://larasc.vic.edu.au/ 12894993-KF35-26 2W GEELONG INDEPENDENT Friday, 28 August, 2026
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We are Geelong Festival of Sails. (All pictures: Ivan Kemp)
We are
Carna Catters.
Geelong T
here is something special about Geelong. Sitting on the shores of Corio Bay and only a short trip from Melbourne, it manages to combine the best parts of a lively regional city with the relaxed atmosphere of a coastal town. It is big enough to have plenty happening, but small enough that life never feels overwhelmingly busy. One of Geelong’s greatest strengths is its waterfront. The famous Geelong Waterfront is the kind of place that makes you appreciate how good life can be when the ocean is right on your doorstep. Whether you’re walking along the promenade, grabbing a coffee, watching the boats, or enjoying the view across Corio Bay, there is always a reason to head down to the water. Then there are the beaches. Geelong is surrounded by beautiful coastal areas, from Eastern Beach and its historic swimming enclosure to the beaches and seaside towns of the Bellarine Peninsula. A short drive can take you from the centre of the city to quiet stretches of coastline, making it easy to escape when you need a change of scenery. Geelong also has a strong sense of community. It has grown considerably over the years, but it has managed to retain much of its local character. Sporting clubs, schools, markets, festivals, cafes and community events give the city an identity that goes beyond simply being a place to live. People tend to have a genuine connection to the city and its surrounding suburbs. Food and coffee are another reason Geelong is so good. The city has developed a thriving cafe and restaurant scene, with plenty of places to enjoy everything from a casual breakfast to a memorable dinner. Areas such as Pakington Street, the
Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race.
waterfront and central Geelong provide plenty of options, while the surrounding Bellarine is packed with wineries, breweries and excellent local produce. Geelong is also perfectly positioned for exploring. The Great Ocean Road is within easy reach, while the Bellarine Peninsula and Surf Coast offer countless opportunities for beaches, walks, cycling, surfi ng and weekend adventures. You can enjoy the convenience of a city while having some of Victoria’s most beautiful scenery practically on your doorstep. Sport is a huge part of Geelong’s identity too. The Geelong Cats are deeply woven into the city’s culture, and a match at GMHBA Stadium can feel like much more than just a sporting event. The club’s long history and passionate supporter base have helped make football an important part of what makes Geelong feel like Geelong. Perhaps the biggest reason Geelong is so good, however, is that it offers balance. You can have a busy day in the city, relax beside the water in the afternoon, and be somewhere surrounded by nature before the day is over. It has history without feeling stuck in the past, development without losing its character, and plenty to do without becoming exhausting. Geelong is a real city with real people, local quirks and its own personality. But for anyone looking for a place with beaches, sport, food, culture, community and easy access to some of Victoria’s best landscapes, Geelong makes a remarkably strong case for itself. Coastal lifestyle, city conveniences, great food, passionate sport, beautiful surroundings and a strong local identity all in one place. And once you’ve experienced it, it’s pretty easy to understand why so many of us are proud to call Geelong home.
Fashion on show at the Geelong Cup.
Fun at the Geelong Show.
Plane spotting at Avalon International Airshow.
Walking along the Barwon River.
Home of the mighty Cats GMHBA Stadium.
Surf’s up.
The multicultural Pako Festa.
Friday, 28 August, 2026 GEELONG INDEPENDENT 3W
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We are Geelong GMHBA: Caring for the community we love to call home Healthy communities are built on more than healthcare. They rely on strong connections, local organisations, accessible service and people willing to invest their time and resources back into places they call home. In Geelong, one organisation that has been part of that community fabric for more than 90 years is not-for-profit health insurer GMHBA. Founded in Geelong in 1934, GMHBA’s role in the region has evolved well beyond health insurance. Today, its community investment spans healthcare services, schools, sporting clubs, charities and community organisations, reflecting a broader focus on helping people live healthier lives. This year marks two years since the opening of the GMHBA Geelong Hub in the heart of the city, bringing five health services together under one roof. The aim was simple: make healthcare easier and more convenient for local families. The Hub sits alongside GMHBA’s broader network of locations across the region, including the recently relocated South Barwon Medical Centre in Belmont. Together, these services provide local access to dental, eye care, physiotherapy and medical services, complementing the hospital and extras cover available through GMHBA. But supporting healthier lives extends well beyond the healthcare system. GMHBA is also investing in initiatives that focus on the social and emotional factors that contribute to wellbeing, particularly for young people. Through its partnership with The Resilience Project and the Geelong Cats, local students are developing skills to build resilience, strengthen relationships and
Molly from GMHBA with Karen and Alex from GenU, and below, Kerri and Jessica from GMHBA volunteering for Our Village.
Program manager Joanne at the reopening of South Barwon Medical Centre in Belmont.
support positive mental health. The organisation’s involvement in programs such as Read the Play similarly helps young people develop confidence and life skills through their connection with sport. For GMHBA, connection is an important part of community wellbeing. Its partnerships with other organisations, along with a wide range of local community groups, provide opportunities to bring people together, create shared experiences and strengthen connections across the region. That commitment also extends to GMHBA’s own workforce. Every employee receives a paid volunteering day each year, encouraging staff to support causes that matter to them. From local charities and
community organisations to environmental projects, GMHBA employees are given the opportunity to contribute their time and skills where they can make a difference. Community engagement and partnerships manager at genU Jo Forssman has seen the impact of that involvement firsthand. “The time GMHBA staff spend engaging with our clients, supporting our events and embracing the genU team is social inclusion in action and has the power to transform communities,” she said. It is this combination of healthcare, community investment and employee involvement that recently saw GMHBA recognised as Geelong’s Employer of Choice at the 2025 Geelong Business Excellence Awards.
For an organisation that has called Geelong home for more than nine decades, the recognition reflects a longstanding connection to the region and the people who live here. Being part of a community is about more than having a physical presence. It is about contributing to the places where people live, work and raise their families, and supporting the organisations and initiatives that help those communities flourish. For GMHBA, that means continuing to show up: in healthcare settings, on sporting fields, in schools, at community events and alongside the local organisations working to make Geelong a healthier and more connected place. Because when a community thrives, everyone benefits.
The remarkable rise of rubgy at Lara Secondary College State titles, representative honours and an international tour mark a remarkable rise for one of Victoria’s newest school rugby programs. Last week, Lara Secondary College’s Under 18 boys captured the Victorian Schools Rugby Union State Championship Cup, while the Under 18 girls, coached by Emma Brown, fi nished runners-up remarkable achievements in only their third year. What began with 20 students, two staff and an ambitious idea has grown into an academy approaching 100 students, achieving success at state level and creating genuine pathways into elite sport for many students. For Rugby Academy Coach, World Cup and Tongan international player Ephraim Taukafa, however, the program has always been about more than winning. “The discussion here is that they learn and develop as young people fi rst, and then they play rugby - good rugby,” Taukafa said. “The culture is great, there’s a family kind of feel to the program.” That philosophy reflects the broader expectations at Lara Secondary College around respect, excellence, teamwork and commitment. “It’s not only about a winning culture, but it’s a culture where people can be comfortable and respectful,” Taukafa said. “The accountability, the integrity, the respect - the values of the game have transformed the culture of the teams.” And, the individual achievements are beginning to mount. Bailey Kanash, Tristan Taare and Trent Foley have been selected in the wider national Under 18 Rugby Union squad.
What began with 20 students, two staff and an ambitious idea has grown into an academy approaching 100 students at Lara Secndary College.
They are also part of the Victorian wider training program, alongside Kohen Tavita at Under 17 level. Donny Latu Junior, Daelan Taare, Madaan Fuiono, Ihaka Toko and Matthew Migao have also earned places in the Victorian Under 17 wider training squad, while Tayten La Spada has been selected at Victorian Under 14 level. The girls’ pathway is producing similar results, with Havana Puke and Charity
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Asiata selected in the Victorian Under 16 program. Mihi Puke has represented Victoria in the mixed Under 12 rugby league team. Beyond representative honours, the academy is opening professional
pathways. Rusiate Senibalolo has secured a three-year contract with the Melbourne Storm Under 16 development squad. The next step is international. Lara students are preparing for an unprecedented tour of France, one of the heartlands of European rugby union, where they will compete and have opportunities to play in front of professional rugby selectors. The college is also developing a high-performance strength and conditioning centre, while its growing Cricket Academy reflects a broader investment in sporting development and pathways. For Taukafa, who is working towards his level 5 after coaching professionally in France, the work has personal significance. As a yyoungg man, his First XV coach became an important mentor, going out of his way to get him to training and in his words, “saving his life” from some challenging circumstances. “I wish I had a school like this,” Taukafa said. “Our academy has been embraced by this school and this community, and we are proud to be part of it and proud to be making a difference. “Families feel that they can trust the process here at Lara, that here their kids can be the best they can be.” Th ree years into that process, the results - from state championships to representative selections and professional opportunities - are beginning to speak for themselves.
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We are Geelong Ari and the team at Buildpro are proud to build Geelong Geelong is a region that continues to grow, evolve and build for the future and Buildpro Geelong is proud to play a part in helping our local community build, renovate and transform the places they call home. Since opening in June 2018, Buildpro Geelong has become a trusted local destination for homeowners, builders, landscapers and trades looking for quality external building and landscaping products backed by knowledgeable, friendly service. Led by Ari and the team, Buildpro Geelong services customers throughout Greater Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula, Surf Coast and surrounding areas, providing products for everything from new homes and major renovations to backyard transformations and smaller weekend projects. For the team, being part of Geelong means understanding the local area and the different styles of homes, developments and outdoor spaces taking shape across our growing region. At Buildpro Geelong’s Grovedale display centre, customers can see and compare an extensive range of bricks, pavers, cladding, landscaping products and external building materials in person. It’s the perfect opportunity to explore colours, textures and fi nishes, gather inspiration and speak with a team that understands how important it is to choose the right materials for your project. Buildpro Geelong proudly supplies products from some of Australia’s most recognised and trusted brands, including Austral, Littlehampton Bricks, Outback Sleepers, Shapescaper, NewTechWood,
Discover what’s possible for your next project at Buildpro Geelong. (Pictures: Supplied)
Adbri Masonry, National Masonry, PGH, Veneer Stone and Rockcote, along with many more. But what makes a local business truly valuable is more than the products it sells. Ari and the Buildpro Geelong team pride themselves on providing the knowledge and advice customers need to achieve professional results. Whether you’re an experienced builder who knows exactly
what you need or a homeowner tackling your fi rst renovation or landscaping project, the team can help you navigate the options and fi nd products suited to your vision. As Geelong continues to welcome new residents, new homes and exciting developments, Buildpro Geelong is proud to be part of a region that is building for the future while maintaining the strong local
community that makes it such a great place to live and work. We Are Geelong – and Buildpro Geelong is proud to help build it. Come and see Ari and the team at Buildpro Geelong and discover what’s possible for your next project. Visit buildpro.com.au/geelong to find out more.
South Geelong Farmers Market has grown into a real gathering spot for the community. (Supplied)
South Geelong Farmers Market runs on the fi rst and third Sunday of every month and it’s easy to spot - right on the corner of Kilgour and Yarra Streets in South Geelong. Set on the grounds of the local school, it’s grown into a real gathering spot for the community, bringing together local growers, producers, and makers who bring the good stuff straight from paddock to trestle table. You’ll fi nd seasonal fruit and veg, freshly baked artisan bread, local honey, fresh coffee that’s actually worth queuing for, and all sorts of home-grown, handmade goodies from stallholders who genuinely love what they do. Add in some great live music drifting across the grounds and it’s the kind of market where you’ll bump into
a neighbour, let the kids run around, and leave with more than you planned to buy. Our next market falls on Father’s Day, Sunday 6 September – the perfect excuse to bring dad, the kids, and the whole family down for a morning out. There’ll be a petting zoo so it’s one for the little ones as well. Beyond the stalls, the market has become a hub for community connection with events and initiatives that bring people together beyond just the shopping. Whether you’re after your weekly fresh produce fi x or just fancy a wander and a coffee on a Sunday morning, it’s a great excuse to get out and support local. So mark the dates: September 6 and 20, October 4 and 18, November 1 and 15, and December 6 and 20.\
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Friday, 28 August, 2026 GEELONG INDEPENDENT 7W
Caring nurses are making lives better in Geelong For Geelong local Kristy Kayler-Thomson, caring for people in her community is more than a profession – it’s a passion. As the owner and operator of Nurse Next Door Home Care Services Geelong, Kristy and her team proudly support older Australians and people living with disability to remain happy, safe and independent in their own homes. Born in Colac, Kristy moved to Geelong in 2008 and spent 10 years working as a nurse at Geelong Hospital. Today, she is proud to bring her experience and genuine love of caring to families throughout Geelong and surrounding communities, from Lovely Banks to Moriac. Family is at the heart of everything Kristy does. Her goal is to provide home care differently, helping people stay connected with the family, friends, interests and community they love for as long as they choose. Central to Nurse Next Door is its Happier Ageing® philosophy, which starts with a simple question: What did you use to love doing that you no longer do? Kristy and her team work with clients to rediscover those interests, hobbies and passions while providing personalised support tailored to individual needs. From companionship and assistance with daily living to nursing, dementia and Alzheimer’s care, Nurse Next Door Geelong provides trusted care 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with no long-term contracts.
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We are Geelong Caspian villa at The Breeze.
Living in a Caspian villa
Nurse Next Door Geelong managing director Kristy Kayler-Thomson.
Caregivers are carefully matched with clients, helping create meaningful relationships while giving families greater peace of mind. For Kristy, it’s all about Making Lives Better® – right here in Geelong.
When John and I (Lauri) moved into our Caspian villa at The Breeze in July 2021, downsizing was never part of our plan. We loved our Geelong home, with its generous living spaces, productive garden, and room to host family and friends. But after a period of significant illness in 2020-21, maintaining our home and garden became increasingly difficult, and we knew it was time for a change. Finding the right place was important. We were accustomed to open-plan living, natural light, and a strong connection to the outdoors. The moment we stepped into the Caspian display villa, we knew we had found what we were looking for. What we love most is the flexibility of the design. The open kitchen, dining, and living area allows us to arrange the space to suit our lifestyle, while the abundance of windows fi lls the home with light and creates a seamless connection
to the garden. Although we downsized significantly, careful planning meant we only brought what truly mattered. As a result, our villa feels spacious and comfortable, never cramped. We chose to use our second bedroom as a study and music room rather than a guest room. Family and friends still visit regularly, making use of nearby accommodation, while we continue to host special occasions at home and in the Private Dining Room at the Waterside Pavilion. The thoughtful storage, manageable garden, and adaptable floor plan make our villa a perfect fit. Four years on, John and I remain convinced that the Caspian is the right design for us at The Breeze. Then again, many of our neighbours feel exactly the same about their floorplans and perhaps that’s the real beauty of living here.
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We are Geelong Soar high when the international airshow returns to Avalon When the Avalon Australian International Airshow returns in 2027, more than 200,000 visitors are expected to descend on the region. While the aircraft will take centre stage at Avalon Airport, the opportunity extends well beyond the event site. Th rough the Geelong is Home initiative, local businesses can become part of the airshow experience and connect with visitors, aviation enthusiasts, industry delegates and locals who will be sharing in the excitement. The airshow has proudly called Avalon Airport home since 1992, building a decades-long connection with the Geelong region. Geelong is Home celebrates that relationship by encouraging businesses, venues and attractions across the region to embrace the airshow and create experiences that help welcome visitors while showcasing everything Geelong has to offer. Participation is simple and completely free. Businesses create an aviation-themed offer, promotion or experience at their own venue, with no need to exhibit onsite. That could be anything from a themed food or beverage item, accommodation package or retail promotion, through to a special event, attraction or in-store activation. Participating businesses receive promotion through Avalon Australian International Airshow marketing channels, including e-newsletters, social media and the event website. They also receive tailored digital assets to help maximise their own promotion and connect with new audiences.
Geelong is Home gives local businesses the chance to be part of the Avalon Australian International Airshow experience.
The initiative delivered strong results in 2025, with local businesses using the airshow platform to increase visibility and engage new customers. Participants included Black Sheep Geelong, which created an Aviation Cocktail Special, Flying Brick Cider Co as the Official Cider Partner, and Geelong Gaol Museum, which developed a special exhibition and live storytelling experience. For Matthew White, Founder of Gary
Good Coffee, the benefits were immediate. “Partnering with the Avalon Australian International Airshow was a standout moment for our newly launched coffee brand,” he said. “The exposure was game-changing.” With interest already building for Avalon 2027, the Geelong is Home program is set to expand, creating even more opportunities for businesses across hospitality, retail, tourism, accommodation and services to
get involved. The airshow will bring the visitors. Geelong is Home gives local businesses the chance to be part of the experience, share in the excitement and make the most of one of the region’s largest events. Expressions of interest are now open and close at the end of November 2026. Find out more and register your interest event.airshow.com.au/GeelongIsHome
JOIN GEELONG IS HOME 200,000+ REASONS TO GET INVOLVED Avalon Australian International Airshow 26-28 February 2027 What’s in it for you: • • • • •
Exposure to over 200,000 Airshow attendees and the local community y Free promotion via the Avalon website, social media and newsletters Tailored social media creatives to help you promote your involvement A genuine chance to be featured in local and state media It’s completely free to take part
EOI OPEN event.airshow.com.au/GeelongIsHome
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We are Geelong Empowering people with disabilities via home ownership When Empowered Liveability fi rst began, its founders shared a bold vision – to make home ownership a reality for people with disabilities. What started as an ambitious dream has now become a movement changing lives across Australia. In the early days, the path was anything but easy. Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) was still an emerging concept, and few understood how it worked. The team behind Empowered Liveability spent countless hours knocking on the doors of lenders, only to hear the same answer: “It’s too risky, too new.” But instead of giving up, they refi ned their models, developed new partnerships, and built evidence to show that SDA housing is not just about accessibility – it is about independence, security and long-term stability. Th rough perseverance, innovation, and a deep understanding of the NDIS, the Empowered Liveability team is gradually turning scepticism into support. The company is working tirelessly to educate fi nancial institutions about the economic and social value of SDA home ownership, demonstrating that people with disabilities are not just tenants – they are capable, determined individuals who deserve the same opportunities to build equity and stability as anyone else. Today, the results speak for themselves. Empowered Liveability’s home ownership arm, Empowered Housing, has guided multiple participants through the life-changing process of building and owning their own SDA homes – something
Thai during colour selection for his new home, and Dyson and his fiance work on their home design. (Pictures: Supplied)
that seemed impossible less than a decade ago. Take Dyson, for example. After a spinal cord injury on the football field, he returned home to his family home, only to have to reside in the garage. Reliant on information from local generic builders, and uncertain of his housing future, Dyson connected with Nicole Doherty, CEO of Empowered Liveability, and was introduced to the Empowered Housing team. He is now the proud owner of his own purpose-built SDA home. Every
room reflects his independence – wide hallways, adaptive technology, and spaces designed specifically for his lifestyle such as a gaming room and outdoor barbecue kitchen. His story is a shining example of what happens when policy meets purpose. Soon, Thai will join him in this growing group of Empowered homeowners. His build is currently underway, marking another milestone for Empowered Housing and a powerful symbol of progress for the entire SDA community. While the journey has been marked by
trial, error, and relentless perseverance, Empowered Liveability, through Empowered Housing’s success has redefi ned what is possible. The company has proven that, with the right expertise and determination, people with disabilities can not only access quality housing, they can own it. Empowered Housing continues to lead with innovation and heart, paving the way for a future where disability is not a barrier to independence, but a foundation for empowerment.
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722–742 Barwon Heads Rd, Armstrong Creek
August 28, 2026
Lara to host local footy grand finals
(Ivan Kemp) 573265_11
A bumper Sunday of footy awaits at Lara with AFL Barwon’s women’s and girls grand finals set to draw a good crowd. For the second year in a row Geelong Amateur and Grovedale will meet in the Division 1 decider in what is shaping up to be a close game with hardly anything separating the sides all season. Lara will enjoy home ground advantage in the Division 2 grand final against Torquay. In a feel good story, Lara will be most neutrals’ favourite team after the club’s senior and reserves men’s teams went into recess this season. The two games and the Under 17 Division 1 final are at Bisinella Oval while the Under 17 Division 2 and three Under 14s games also play their grand finals at the adjacent Lara No 3 ground. Pictured are Melanie McNamara (Geelong Amateur), Emily Worpel (Grovedale), Kara Stacey and Olivia Mairos (Lara) and Grace O’Kane and Lila Richards (Torquay) ahead of this Sunday’s games. See page 25 for all the details.
Fort future fears Concerns over heritage and transparency regarding the proposed sale of Fort Queenscliff were voiced at Queenscliff Town Hall this week. Community members fi lled the hall on 24 August during a public hearing for the Senate inquiry into the management of defence estate assets, including the historic fort. Fort Queenscliff Heritage Association secretary Dr Bob Marmion said the fort was a “priceless community asset” and deserved to “be fought for”. “The future heritage protection and preservation of Fort Queenscliff could be at risk under the current Defence Divestment Program,” he said. “Th is fort is of local, national and international significance and needs
to remain in public ownership with the fullest possible heritage protections in place. “No other heritage site in Australia has the unique combination of colonial-era military, maritime and civic heritage features you will fi nd here at Fort Queenscliff. “The Australian government now has the opportunity to step in and transform the fortunes of this fort, and this town, and help safeguard the heritage and future of both.” Minister for Defence Richard Marles announced in February that the fort and five other Australian Defence Force sites in Geelong would be sold. Mr Marles previously addressed the public during a community session in
April that 93 per cent of the structures located on the Fort Queenscliff site would be protected as a condition of sale. Queenscliff Community Association (QCA) president David Connoley said there needed to be more transparency around plans for the fort’s future. “At least 93 per cent of Fort Queenscliff represents significant and complex heritage values and constraints,” he said. “It represents a site that seriously limits the expectation of any private ownership and requires some tested models of perpetual public ownership to preserve and conserve this important heritage site. “(We are) vitally committed to ensuring that Fort Queenscliff remains in public ownership...and the QCA are seriously concerned that this (divestment) is a
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highly pre-emptive decision.” National Trust of Victoria’s Geelong and Region Branch vice-president Vivienne Lewis said she would like to see the fort developed as a cultural destination under secure permanent custodianship. “Fort Queenscliff should not be placed at risk of insensitive development under either domestic or foreign ownership,” she said. “The structures remaining today are a powerful reminder of the debt we owe to those who have served and sacrificed their lives for our nation.” Concerned community members recently formed the Defend Fort Queenscliff Alliance to oppose the federal government’s plan to sell and divest the historic fort.
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Nature tourism funding By Jena Carr Surf Coast Shire Council will step up and join the call for more funding and statewide support in repairing nature-based tourism assets. Council agreed (seven councillors to two) during its 25 August meeting to table a motion at the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) state council meeting on 23 October. Councillor Phoebe Crockett said the motion will call on the state government to allocate more funding for nature-based tourism asset repairs following January’s flash flooding.
The flooding destroyed or damaged walking trails, viewing platforms and pedestrian bridges in the Great Otway National Park, leading to many visitor attractions being closed. “Council is advocating on behalf of our local community who rely on the revenue generated from visitors to the (area’s) trails,” Ms Crockett said. “This type of nature-based tourism is the type of visitation we’d like to keep all year round, especially because the locals rely on it, and it has regional significance. “This recommendation will endorse the motion submitted to MAV to enlist support from our state’s peak body for
advocacy on a matter that is significant to our community. “I want to note that investment in responding to clean up and recovery from climate events is an ongoing pressure for councils, and this approach will hopefully offer a solution.” Cr Joel Grist said he was concerned about the costs to ratepayers from the MAV meeting, especially since council was not the land manager of the national park. “We’re discussing a state-managed asset damaged by a natural disaster requiring state government funding,” he said. “My concern is whether this particular
advocacy mechanism represents the simplest, most accountable, and most effective use of ratepayer-funded resources.” The motion follows council’s advocacy for increased funding to help the Great Ocean Road Coast and Parks Authority restore the assets. Visits to national and state parks across Victoria generate an estimated $1.4 billion in economic activity annually and support around 14,000 jobs. Surf Coast Shire lost around 233,000 visitors following the January flood event, while spending in Lorne during the second half of the month dropped by about 75 per cent compared with pre-flood levels.
Ollie is all set for world champs Premier Ben Carroll and South Barwon candidate Rebecca Thistleton met with Bellaire Primary School captains Anna Moorfoot, left, Tessa Healy, Austin Moore and Olive Paulin. (Jena Carr)
Premier Carroll visits Geelong school By Jena Carr Premier Ben Carroll has paid a special visit to the staff and students at Bellaire Primary School following the completion of major upgrades. The premier visited the Highton school on 21 August to celebrate the state government’s more than $7.1 million investment into the school’s classrooms, facilities and open spaces. Mr Carroll said it was important to support students, teachers and families with more state-of-the-art school buildings across the region. “We’re delivering world-class public
schools for Geelong kids, because Geelong’s future is written in its classrooms,” he said. “As the premier, I am committed to being the education premier, and I couldn’t be more proud of Victoria’s education system.” Upgraded classrooms, better landscaping, a new junior learning centre and a new half basketball court were delivered at the school through the project. “To be able to show it (the upgrades) off, but also the quality of our students throughout the whole school was great,” school principal Suzanne Prendergast said. “The quality of our teachers and stu-
dents is amazing, and we’re extremely lucky to have coaches out of the classroom full time.” During his visit to Bellaire Primary School, Mr Carroll met with school captains Olive Paulin, Tessa Healy, Austin Moore and Anna Moorfoot. “Knowing that we get to do this (meet the Premier), even though it’s almost the end of the year, it’s a really big deal, and it’s really cool,” Olive said. The state government has currently invested close to $600 million in school infrastructure in Geelong and delivered more than 2400 school upgrades across the state.
Council backtracks on proposed Torquay road sale By Jena Carr A portion of Torquay land will not be sold after an investigation found that Surf Coast Shire Council did not fully own the area. Councillors unanimously decided during its 25 August meeting not to proceed with the proposed sale of a 164 square-metre portion of land known as Geelong Road Torquay. The decision followed the Department of Transport and Planning’s (DTP) finding that the subject land was designated as an arterial road in 1990, with the title incorrectly transferred to council.
Councillor Paul Barker said there was “no realistic choice but to stop this proposed sale” despite the process directly costing council $4400 for independent valuations and close to $730 in advertising. “Simply retaining ownership or control doesn’t address safety, amenity, or the needs of the people using the area,” he said. “Property rights, lawful commerce and competent due diligence are the foundation of prosperity and respect by the organisation from the community. “The report says normal due diligence was undertaken; if normal due diligence
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missed a 36-year-old road declaration that legally prevents a sale, perhaps normal is the problem.” Council resolved during last year’s 25 November meeting to begin the community engagement process on the proposed land sale. DTP investigations found that the arterial road declaration affecting the land was not identified by the appropriate authorities, leading to the area’s title being incorrectly transferred to council. Council will now liaise with DTP to resolve the incorrect land status and determine an appropriate arrangement.
By Matt Hewson A Geelong scooter rider will head to Paraguay this October to compete in the world championships after a podium finish at the national titles. Ollie McCaughley, 12, will represent Australia in the scootering world championships at the World Skate Games 2026 in Asunción, Paraguay, which run from 2 to 18 October. Ollie earned selection for the Australian squad after finishing second in the junior street of the Australian Scooter Championships in Queensland in July. Ollie said he was really excited to finish second and earn selection for Australia, although there were still things he wanted to improve before heading to Paraguay. “It’s a huge opportunity, especially at my age,” he said. “I’m a little nervous because it’s such a big competition, but mostly I can’t wait to get there and experience it, see all my idols and all the pros.” Having been on a scooter since he was three years old, Ollie’s dad is a skateboarder and his two brothers are sponsored skaters who have also competed at world championships. OIlie decided to get serious about scooter riding after entering the Scooter Moomba Madness competition last year and winning. “I realised I wanted to see how far I could take it,” he said. “I normally ride five times a week. I spend a lot of time practising my tricks at home… and I use the Waurn Ponds skate park to put runs together after school. “I love the freedom of it and the feeling of landing a trick that I’ve worked hard on. I also love riding with my friends, learning new things and competing. “There is always something new to work on, so it never gets boring.”
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Eczema setback By Jena Carr There has been a setback in the funding of medication for young children living with severe eczema, including families from the Surf Coast. The Pharmaceutical Benefits Advisory Committee (PBAC) released its decision on 21 August not to support the latest revised proposal to make dupilumab (brand name Dupixent) available to kids under 12 through the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Torquay’s Peggy Creasey is among many kids across the country who battle severe eczema, with the condition causing the six-
year-old’s skin to become red, dry and itchy. Mother Rachel Allan previously told the Independent that Peggy had tried many different creams and medications before she was granted compassionate access to dupilumab. “If she didn’t have this medicine, I don’t know what the future would hold or how she would be going to school, so...she’s able to be a kid again,” she said. “As a parent, I don’t understand why my child doesn’t matter until she’s 12 and the impacts on the health system would far outweigh the medicine’s costs.” The PBAC’s March 2022 recommenda-
tion to support a PBS listing of dupilumab for children younger than 12 remains unchanged despite the recent ruling. The unchanged recommendation will allow the federal government and manufacturer Sanofi to continue negotiations, with dupilumab currently only available to Australians aged 12 and older through the PBS. “Children with severe eczema are in physical and emotional distress (and) these families have waited far too long,” Eczema Support Australia founder Melanie Funk said. The Department of Health, Disability and Ageing was contacted for comment.
Torquay’s Peggy Creasey is pictured with severe eczema on her face and neck. (Supplied)
Councillor Emma Sinclair. (Ivan Kemp)
Place names on the back-burner City of Greater Geelong CEO Ali Wastie and Mayor Stretch Kontelj, with 5-year-old Frankie Goudge, Lara MP Ella George and Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn at Lara West. (Supplied)
More kinder spaces promised from 2030 New community spaces and more kindergarten places will be available across Greater Geelong in four years. Two community hubs that offer kindergarten and community services will be built in Lara West and Armstrong Creek as part of a Building Blocks Partnership. City of Greater Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said the partnership between the Victorian School Building Authority (VSBA) and council would provide 510 new kinder spaces across the region from 2030. “This is a win for our youngest residents who deserve accessible and quality early years’ education,” he said. “(It is also great for) young people and adults who can try out dance, exercise or art classes, support groups and events in a
convenient location. “The hubs’ layout will be consistent with council’s integrated planning approach to have early years, health and community services in the one spot.” The partnership will help streamline a Building Blocks Capacity Building Grant to help build the Lara West East Community Hub and Lauderdale Court Community Hub in Armstrong Creek. “This is a big win for areas in Greater Geelong that are growing particularly fast and don’t have enough kindergarten places and community facilities,” Mayor Kontelj said. “We’ve identified growing townships, Lara West and Armstrong Creek, as priority areas which would benefit greatly from hundreds of new kinder spots and com-
munity spaces.” Member for Lara Ella George said each community hub would be allocated close to $9 million and that it was important to help build the services that families need closer to home. “Lara is growing at a rapid pace, and local families have been calling for more kinders, day care and community spaces,” she said. “Every child growing up in Lara West deserves the very best start to life, and that’s why the labor government is investing in more kinder places for local families.” A further $150,000 will help the City of Greater Geelong plan a new kindergarten in Corio, bringing the total to up to $18.1 million for kinder projects across Greater Geelong.
Meli sounds caution over proposed family violence reforms Local services provider Meli has welcomed the Victorian government’s proposed family violence law reforms, albeit with concerns about the criminalisation of coercive control. Formally introduced to the Victorian Parliament earlier this month, the reforms aim to strengthen protections for victim-survivors of family violence by eliminating good character references in sentencing, expanding anti-discrimination protections and criminalising coercive control. The reforms would also extend personal safety intervention orders to recognise grooming, reduce the need for victim-survivors to repeatedly return to court and re-
quire courts to consider their views before extending intervention orders. Meli works directly with people and families affected by family violence and runs programs aiming to reduce family violence at its root, such as its Young Men’s Behaviour Change Program. Lisa Robinson, Meli director of family safety and therapeutic services, said while she welcomed the majority of the reforms, evidence suggested criminalising coercing control could present challenges “While strong laws are essential, lasting change requires enduring investment in primary prevention, workforce education
and community awareness to intervene in dangerous patterns of behaviour,” she said. “Everyone working across the justice system has a role in understanding the drivers of gendered violence, challenging harmful myths and misconceptions, and supporting systems that maximise perpetrator visibility and accountability. “Laws alone do not stop violence. However, evidence-informed law reform, strengthened by prevention and education, can help create safer communities and better outcomes for victim- survivors.” The reforms have yet to be passed by either house of Victorian Parliament.
Geelong council has put off making a decision on its proposed place-naming policy seeking to address the underrepresentation of diverse populations in official place names around the municipality. The policy would correct historical imbalances by prioritising First Nations people, women and migrants when choosing names for new public places. A draft version of the policy was exhibited to the public for four weeks over late March and April, with public sentiment skewing significantly – but not overwhelmingly – positive. The council’s vote to put the policy up for exhibition was not unanimous among the councillor group. Councillors Eddy Kontelj and Andrew Katos both voted against the policy in March, claiming it would exclude Anglo-Saxon men and veterans. At Tuesday’s meeting councillor Trent Sullivan introduced a succesful motion to defer the decision. “The place-naming policy is incredibly important and I would like to defer it to next month’s council meeting so councillors can make sure that it is the best that it can be,” he said. Councillor Emma Sinclair, who was vocal in her support of the policy in March, said she would “very reluctantly support a deferral...on the proviso that it is returning to council next month”. “We’ve had a few cracks at this and we need to make sure we get this right,” she said. “Geelong is commended as being a leader in this space; we don’t want to damage our reputation in this work. Let’s just resolve this very quickly.”
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Furniture footpath gone By Jena Carr Furniture belonging to two Surf Coast Shire cafes has been removed following issues with footpath trading. Surf Coast Shire councillor Paul Barker alerted the Geelong Independent on 20 August that council staff had removed outdoor furniture from a footpath in front of two Torquay cafes. Community Life general manager Damian Waight said that “both cafes had been operating without a footpath trading permit for some time”, leading to the removal of furniture.
“Removal of street furniture is an absolute last resort, and it is very rare for council to take this action,” he said. “We are committed to supporting local businesses and understand they are facing a difficult operating environment. “However, out of fairness to businesses that do comply with regulations designed for public safety, we need to apply our rules consistently across the shire. “Our staff had made extensive attempts to work with both businesses to have their permits put in place prior to this stage.” Mr Waight said that one of the busi-
nesses has since paid for its footpath trading permit since the furniture was removed. “(They have) supplied the required information to enable us to issue a permit for the 2026-27 financial year,” he said. “The furniture is now back with this business, and they will be able to resume trading on the footpath. “We are in continued discussions with the owner of the other business and will help them get their permit in place so they can resume footpath trading.” Mr Waight said footpath trading permits existed to help keep public spaces
safe, accessible and fair to everyone. “These permits are also important for public liability considerations for both council and businesses,” he said. “Council has a responsibility to provide a safe environment for people moving around the shire, including pedestrians, people with prams and wheelchair users on footpaths and in shopping precincts.” Visit surfcoast.vic.gov.au/About-us/ Council/Laws-and-regulations/Footpath-trading for more information about footpath trading activities for the Surf Coast Shire.
Healing through Red Nose Day By Jena Carr
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The Greater Geelong community has gotten behind grieving families by helping raise money to reduce the rate of sudden and unexpected infant deaths. Challenges and fundraising events were held during Red Nose Day on 27 August to support vital research, education programs and specialised support for bereaved families. Ocean Grove ambassador Amie Rohan’s daughter Willow died eight years ago from a neural tube defect called anencephaly, where a baby is born without parts of their brain and skull. “You should never feel like you have to fit into a certain category to utilise the services that Red Nose has available,” Ms
Rohan said. “I never realised that I fit the bill to reach out to Red Nose when we went through what we went through because we knew about Willow’s condition from a 12-week scan. “Eight years feels like such a significant time that has passed...and I want to show people that it does get better over time, and it doesn’t diminish the severity of what you felt.” Red Nose Australia has contributed to an 80 per cent reduction in sudden infant death syndrome thanks to community support. Visit the Red Nose Day website for more information or to donate.
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Ocean Grove Red Nose ambassador Amie Rohan with her children Bella, Sadie and Archie. (Ivan Kemp)
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Big changes for election By Matt Hewson As the state election in November approaches, the Victorian Electoral Commission (VEC) is bringing in a raft of changes to cope with growing population numbers, technological changes, the ever-increasing expectations of voters and more parties and candidates. One of the most significant changes to the way the VEC will conduct this election is the introduction of 32 election hubs across Victoria. Rather than having all logistics run through Melbourne as in previous years, the hubs – including one in Corio – are
logistical bases that will serve as backend operations centres, supply voting centres with materials, provide space for counting and rechecking votes and support local community outreach. The amount of early voting centres will also increase to about 200, 30 per cent more than in 2022, to deal with the projected 60 per cent of people who will vote early. Early voting centres will also all be open on election day. As a result, the VEC is seeking about 25,000 casual staff to service the hubs and voting centres, with more than 2200 staff needed in the Geelong region. In addition to those logistical changes,
the VEC is dealing with new legislation relevant to elections, including political donation and disclosure laws and group voting tickets. The commission will also replace physical rolls at voting centres with laptops and will provide a low sensory voting centre in all lower house districts across Victoria. The man overseeing the implementation of all these changes, VEC commissioner Sven Bluemmel, said voters had higher expectations of his organisation than ever before. “People want faster results, greater transparency, more convenience, and
we’re ready to deliver on that,” he said. “In terms of scale, it’s going to be, unsurprisingly, the biggest election we’ve ever had in Victoria, about 4.6 million people on the roll. That’s a quarter of a million more than last time, so that is a pretty rapid change. “There’s always a strong desire for a rapid count and a good outcome, which we completely understand; we want that too. Most importantly for us, though, is that we’ll never sacrifice accuracy for the sake of speed.” Visit vec.vic.gov.au for more information about casual positions at this year’s state election.
The Outpost’s Amy Hunter-Flint. (Supplied)
Locals in running for hero awards
Geelong Youth Engagement’s second Kokoda Youth Program group; (rear) Chay, Xavier, Dale, Declan, DJ and Archie, (middle) Harry Scarlett, Akasha, Lainey, Ruby, Matt, Lee, Brendan and Sam, (front) Ruby, Bella, Lachie, Sammy, Leanne and Grace. (Ivan Kemp) 574242_08
A trek these lucky students won’t forget By Jena Carr Students from across Greater Geelong’s schools will trade their classrooms for the rugged Papua New Guinea terrain as they take on the Kokoda Trek. Up to 24 young people across two groups will participate in the 96-kilometre trek next month as part of Geelong Youth Engagement’s Kokoda Youth Program. Program facilitator Sammy Jennings said she was looking forward to seeing the students take on the challenge, following 20 weeks of physical training in
preparation for the trek. “It is a life-changing experience, and...the students are really going to benefit from this program,” she said. “We’ve all been together for about seven months before the trek, so the program is good for bonding, as the kids get to know each other within a really tight group. “The kids were initially put forward by their schools to undertake an interviewing process, and they then undertake training right from March after they are chosen.” Each program group includes mentors from different workplaces like Vic-
toria Police and Ambulance Victoria, a trek leader, and up to 12 students currently undertaking Year 11. “The young people selected for the trek may not usually fit into a normal school environment for a range of reasons,” Ms Jennings said. “The idea is to keep these young people in school throughout Year 11, and they must remain at school throughout the year to participate in the program.” Geelong Youth Engagement’s first Kokoda Youth Program group will depart for the trek on 4 September, followed by Ms Jennings’ group on 18 September.
Geelong library artwork a symbol of intention and connection A new artwork born out of community connection will go on display at Geelong Regional Library’s public space this September. Created by Geelong artist Kiri Tawhai and members of the community, Footprints on Country offers a vision of connection, participation and love for Country. The 2.7m by 1.5m artwork was begun at the Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) Geelong’s family fun day late last year. That day, adults and children used the simple of act walking to mark their footprints, forming the basis for the work, with
Ms Tawhai completing the piece in her studio early this year. “This artwork began with a footprint; the simple, powerful act of stepping onto Country with care. Our footprints became a conversation between people, place, and purpose,” she said. “Created in community at an Australian Conservation Foundation Geelong family fun day, the canvas became a meeting place – for adults and children, for conversation and care, for movement and pause. “Together we walked across its surface, each step a gentle consideration of the
marks we leave on Country. A practice of noticing. Of stepping with intention. “This artwork is both record and reminder: that Country remembers us, that our footsteps matter, and that when we walk together — slowly, consciously — we must care for Country as it cares for us.” The work, which has previously been on view at Cloverdale Community Centre and Colac Community Library, will be on display at Geelong Regional Library from 1 to 30 September.
Three Geelong community members from support fields spanning homelessness, grief and disabilities in sport are in the running for a local hero award. The Outpost’s Amy Hunter-Flint, Geelong Stars Sport Club’s Scott Smith and Wombat’s Wish’s Nicki Dunne were announced as finalists in this year’s Westfield Local Heroes program. Scentre Group national community manager Pam Wilson said every finalist represented the very best of the community spirit. “We encourage the community to get involved this year by voting for the cause or individual that resonates with them,” she said. “The Westfield Local Heroes program celebrates the extraordinary individuals who give their time, effort and energy to making our local communities stronger and more inclusive.” Ms Hunter-Flint helps provide hot meals, food relief, clothing and support to people experiencing homelessness through her weekly volunteer and board chair roles with The Outpost. Mr Smith gives children and young people living with disabilities a welcoming place to play sport and build confidence through his leadership of the Geelong All-abilities (Stars) Sport Club. Ms Dunne has spent 35 years supporting vulnerable children and families across Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula through early grief support with Wombat’s Wish. Voting is now open through the Westfield website until 6pm on 20 September, helping recognise community members making a difference across the state. The successful hero from each Westfield destination will receive a $20,000 grant for their organisation and projects, with $5000 awarded to the remaining finalists to support ongoing community efforts.
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Police blitz nabs 67 drivers A Friday night police blitz has netted nearly 67 road offences across Geelong. Conducted by Victoria Police’s Road Policing drug and alcohol section, state highway patrol and the solo unit motorcycle division, Operation Corral saw police administer 1353 preliminary breath tests and 11 roadside drug tests on Friday 21 August. Throughout the operation, police detected 67 offences, including 16 speeding offences, 10 drink driving offences, nine defect notices, nine disqualified, unlicensed or suspended drivers, four drug driving offenc-
es and four mobile phone offences. A statement from police included one particular incident where police intercepted a vehicle attempting to make a hasty turn to avoid a booze bus on Bacchus Marsh Road in Corio. The 20-year-old female driver allegedly returned a positive roadside drug test, resulting in an immediate $627 penalty and six-month licence suspension. The driver’s passenger, a 31-year-old woman, then drove the vehicle back onto Bacchus Marsh Road, was directed straight
to the bus testing site they had tried to avoid and allegedly returned a breath test result of 0.133, which resulted in 12-month loss of licence, a court date and the impounding of the vehicle for 30 days at a cost of $1325. “Victoria Police is warning motorists there is a zero tolerance to drink and drug driving, with significant penalties for those who disregard the rules,” the statement said. “First time offenders who are fully licensed and over 26 years of age caught with a blood alcohol limit between 0.05 and 0.07 will receive a $627 fine and immediate
three-month licence suspension. “The penalties increase substantially for those under 26 years of age, those required to have a zero blood or breath alcohol level, those caught for second or subsequent drink driving offences, and those caught over 0.07 or above “Victoria Police will continue to conduct several major road policing operations targeting impaired drivers over the coming months. Motorists should expect to be tested anywhere, anytime.”
Australia Post and StarTrack are recruiting more than 3,500 seasonal team members. (Supplied)
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Geekon organiser Trevor Howis and Jurassic Jack creator Byron Phillips. (Ivan Kemp) 574234_04
Get your geek on at pop culture convention By Matt Hewson Geeks of all stripes can experience a worldclass event in their own backyard when Geelong welcomes its first ever pop culture convention this November. Geekon, held at the Geelong Arena on 7 and 8 November, will give local enthusiasts the chance to immerse themselves in all things pop culture, including fantasy, science fiction, comics, collectibles, games and art. The weekend will feature panels, demonstrations and workshops, as well as live entertainment, authors and artists, food trucks, an exhibitors market and op-
portunities for cosplaying and interactive activities. Ticketing for the event will be capped, ensuring a smaller, community-focused layout designed to feel less overwhelming than major metropolitan conventions. Self-styled ‘head geek wrangler’ Trevor Howis, co-organiser of the event alongside his partner and event director Rebecca Fairley, said the event’s focus on local and Australian creators meant the weekend was “a celebration, not a shopping experience”. “We’re not a conventional convention… Our focus is on writers and artists, mainly Victorians and locals,” he said. “Most importantly, unlike the other fes-
tivals, we have a ‘no Hollywood signings and photos’ policy. You’re never going to see MacGyver or any celebrity at our events. “When you go to a convention these days, the artist alleys are getting smaller and narrower…they’re not supported as they once may have been. So we’re making a festival for Australian creatives and promoting our incredible artists and storytellers. “We plan for Geekon to be a fun, annual event for everybody in the region. This is just the beginning!” Visit geekon.com.au for tickets and more information.
Mobile health clinic visits Golden Plains to treat women, girls Women and teenage girls will have easier access to healthcare when a free and confidential service comes to Golden Plains Shire this September. The Women’s Health Mobile Clinic, delivered by BreastScreen Victoria, will visit the region from 7 to 29 September, bringing essential healthcare services directly to local communities including Bannockburn. The clinic will offer free 45-minute appointments with qualified health professionals, providing women and teenagers the opportunity to discuss health concerns, preventative care and screening options.
The mobile clinic will be at the Bannockburn Family Services Centre from 7 to 11 September and at the Bannockburn Cultural Centre 23, 24, 28 and 29 September. Golden Plains Shire deputy mayor Emma Robbins said the clinic offered support for women’s health and wellbeing in a welcoming and convenient setting. “Access to quality healthcare can be challenging for people living in rural and regional areas, which is why services like the Women’s Health Mobile Clinic are so important for our community,” she said. “By bringing professional health services
directly to Golden Plains Shire, women and young people can access advice, support and screening options closer to home, without the added time and cost of travelling longer distances.” Call (03) 9675 0050 or visit breastscreen. org.au/community-engagement/womens-health-mobile-clinic to make an appointment, or contact the shire’s community development team on 5220 7111 or or at enquiries@gplains.vic.gov.au for more information.
More than 40 seasonal jobs have opened up in the Geelong region as the Silly Season approaches. Australia Post is currently recruiting across the country, looking to fill 3500 seasonal positions across metropolitan and regional Australia for the busy holiday and online shopping season. Seasonal opportunities are available for truck drivers, forklift operators, parcel sorters, freight handlers and van drivers at Australia Post and StarTrack to keep parcel getting where they need to go over the summer. Australia Post executive general manager of people and culture Sue Davies said seasonal team members played an important role in helping the business deliver for customers during its busiest time of the year. “Last year we delivered a record 111 million parcels in the lead up to Christmas and that wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible people working hard across our network,” she said. “As we prepare for another busy peak period, we’re looking for people with a valid truck or forklift licence, as well as team members for our parcel processing facilities, where no previous experience is needed. “Seasonal roles are a great way to earn extra income ahead of Christmas while working alongside a welcoming and supportive team. “Many of our team members first joined Australia Post during this period and have gone on to build rewarding long-term careers with us. If you’re looking for an opportunity to learn new skills, gain valuable experience and be part of a trusted Australian organisation, we’d love to hear from you.” Visit auspost.com.au/seasonal-team-members for more information.
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Your child's best start in life begins with Busy B From their first steps through to school readiness, we're here to support your nurture every stage of your child's learning journey. Choosing the right early centre is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a parent. At Busy take that responsibility seriously. With Early Childhood Educators' Day on September 3, we're proud t shine a light on the passionate Centre Directors leading our Geelong serv These dedicated educators are the heart of our centres, inspiring child supporting families, and creating the foundation for lifelong learnin
Busy Bees at Geelong West - Meet Tarrah, Centre Director Hello, I’m Tarrah, and I’m passionate about building positive relationships with children and families to create a nurturing environment where every child can thrive and grow. I believe that every child is unique and deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential in a safe, inclusive, and engaging space. As a leader, I’m dedicated to supporting and guiding a team of passionate educators fostering a culture of collaboration, respect, and continuous improvement within our centre.
Busy Bees at Lara - Meet Amanda, Centre Director Hi, I’m Amanda, the Centre Director of Busy Bees at Lara. I believe children learn best when they feel safe, supported and valued. That’s why my team and I have created a warm, welcoming environment where every child can build confidence, develop new skills and enjoy their early learning journey. Our experienced educators are passionate about helping every child thrive. We take the time to understand your child’s interests, personality and unique abilities, creating meaningful learning experiences that encourage curiosity, independence and a love of learning. We work closely with each family, building trusted partnerships and celebrating every milestone together.
www.busybees.edu.au 8 GEELONG INDEPENDENT Friday, 28 August, 2026
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Busy Bees at Waurn Ponds – Meet Tegan, Centre Director Tegan says that one of the things you’ll love most about her Centre is that every part of the environment has been intentionally designed around children’s age, stage and development. From the shoes-off nursery and dedicated Art Rooms to separate indoor and outdoor learning spaces for every age group, every detail has been carefully considered to help children thrive. Tegan has built a closeknit community where every child and family is genuinely known. Children enjoy learning through hands on projects and nature experiences such as with the centres much loved blue tongue lizard, Bluey.
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Busy Bees at Grovedale – Meet Amanda, Centre Director Hi, I’m Amanda, Centre Director at Busy Bees at Grovedale. One of the things you’ll love most about our centre is that every educator knows every child and family, regardless of which room they work in. Those genuine relationships, built by our long-standing team, create a true sense of belonging where children feel safe, supported and at home. Our homely, nurturing environment encourages children to explore at their own pace through flexible, child-led learning shaped by their interests, personalities and family input. Indoor-outdoor learning gives children the freedom to choose where they play, discover and grow each day.
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Busy Bees at Torquay - Meet Emily, Centre Director At Busy Bees at Torquay, every day is an adventure. Nestled beside beautiful bushland and moments from The Dunes Shopping Village, our purpose-built centre offers the perfect balance of nature, exploration and high-quality early learning. Our thoughtfully designed environments support every stage of development, with spacious, light-filled classrooms and exciting outdoor areas. Children can explore a mud kitchen, rock-climbing wall, dry creek bed with a hand water pump, climbing equipment, cubby house, veggie garden and natural spaces that inspire curiosity and imaginative play.
Armstrong Creek - Meet Amy, Centre Director my the Centre Director at Busy Bees ng Creek. We believe there’s something about finding a place where your child feels ppy and excited to begin each day. entre, you’ll find warm and welcoming g environments, caring educators who take to get to know every child, and a genuine f community that you’ll feel from the you walk through the door. ay is filled with opportunities for to learn, play, explore and build nce at their own pace, while you e reassurance of knowing your supported by a team that truly
Busy Bees at Belmont - Meet Shaan, Centre Director Hi, I’m Shaan the Centre Director of Busy Bees at Belmont. At our centre we’ve created a warm, welcoming environment where children feel safe, supported and excited to learn. Each day begins with a greeting from our much-loved resident, Gabbie the Yabbie, sparking smiles and curiosity. Located minutes from Geelong, our purpose-built centre features nurturing learning spaces and adventurous outdoor environments. Children can explore sandpits, cubby houses, climbing equipment, a teepee, vegetable and herb gardens, and a chicken coop that encourages care for animals and nature. Weekly incursions, including sports, gymnastics and Magic Bookworm, provide exciting opportunities to learn and have fun.
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Density change dismissed By Jena Carr Controversial plans to increase the density at The Sands Torquay will not go ahead, following objections by community and Surf Coast Shire council officers. Councillors unanimously decided during the 25 August council meeting not to approve a planning application to amend a comprehensive development plan for the coastal residential resort community. Councillor Liz Pattison said there were issues with the amendment, including a change to the current mix of 400 residential and 200 medium density lots to a combined 600 residential lots.
“The original planning framework clearly intended a mix of housing types, so removing that distinction weakens the planning diversity,” she said. “Some of the proposed areas are affected by bushfire risk, and the officer’s assessment found that acceptable protection measures may require substantial vegetation change or removal. “The proposal relies heavily on lotscale infrastructure and ongoing maintenance, so it is not able to demonstrate that future development can occur without further impact on the Karaaf. “The Karaaf Wetlands is already under significant pressure from urban stormwater, with...the proposal leading to an
additional flow into an already stressed environment. “I recognise the proposal would provide a moderate increase in housing within The Sands, but I think when you weigh it up against those issues, it’s outweighed.” The amendment proposal, submitted by Central Real Capital, received 169 submissions from the community, with every submission that council received opposing the amendment. Cr Paul Barker said the “community response was overwhelming” and that the proposal was not in accordance with the Golden Beach Concept Plan, which is the comprehensive development plan
for the land. “The item at hand is a genuine conflict of rights as the landowner does have a legitimate right to seek productive use of private land,” he said. “Modest additional housing within the settlement boundary could be a benefit to the wider community. “But the property rights do not include a right to transfer fire, drainage, environmental or material amenity costs onto neighbours.” The proposal would also have resulted in the removal, modification, or ongoing management of the coastal alkaline scrub and associated habitat values, which was another reason for council’s decision.
Karen Spreadborough and Will Wilson will celebrate the Hive Gallery’s 10th anniversary with a group exhibition next month. (Ivan Kemp) 572965_17
Hive’s 10-year buzz By Jena Carr
Gone Bananas will perform at the upcoming all ages gig at The MAC Torquay. (Supplied)
Young musicians make their debut Young performers will showcase their musical talents on stage during a free community concert in Torquay. Six young acts from the Surf Coast Shire will perform at The MAC Torquay on Saturday 29 August as part of the state government’s Amplify music and arts program. Zoms & Co will be among the young performers making their debut during the free concert, with Amplify marking singer and Surf Coast Secondary College student Maxx’s first community event. “Ever since I was little, I’ve always lis-
tened to music (and) I pretty much wear my headphones 24/7,” Maxx said. “I’ve got some pre-show nerves, but I’m hoping it’ll help me become more confident in my singing and help me to perform in front of bigger crowds. “My advice to anyone thinking about coming is to show up...and don’t think of it as a concert but more as a get-together with music playing, where you can meet new people.” The concert will also feature performances by Gone Bananas, Gem, Idiots in
Power, Goodbye Despair, and Ash of Cedar. Surf Coast Shire councillor Joel Grist said the Amplify gig was organised by young people with the support of council’s youth team to help young musicians pursue their goals. “Local youth who are wanting a night out can come along, listen to some music and hopefully make new friends,” he said. Doors to The MAC at 77 Beach Road in Torquay will open at 6pm, with performances running from 6.30pm to 8.30pm before the event closes at 9pm.
Giving young people mental health and emotional support By Jena Carr Mental health and emotional wellbeing are key concerns for young people across Geelong, with people encouraged to help during Kids Helpline Giving Week. Kids Helpline received 510 contacts for its counselling service from the Geelong area between 1 January last year and 30 June this year, ahead of the fundraising week from 24 to 30 August. Bullying was the eighth most common concern, with 5.1 per cent (26) contacting Kids Helpline during the 18 months.
“When a young person reaches out to us about bullying and tells us they’re also experiencing thoughts of suicide, we are there to support them,” yourtown chief executive Tracy Adams said. “We want children and young people to know they can reach out when something first starts to feel wrong, so they don’t need to wait until they’re struggling to cope or in crisis.” The main contact reasons included mental health at 26.1 per cent (133 contacts), emotional wellbeing at 23.1 per cent (118), and suicide-related concerns at 19.4 per
10 GEELONG INDEPENDENT Friday, 28 August, 2026
cent (99). Among Geelong’s young people who engaged in counselling, 72.5 per cent (354) were female, followed by males at 15.2 per cent (74) and then trans and gender diverse at 12.3 per cent (60). The most common age group that contacted Kids Helpline from the Geelong area during the 18 months was 10 to 14 years old, which made up 39.5 per cent (200) of counselling contacts. Visit kidshelpline.com.au/donate for more information about Kids Helpline’s Giving Week or to donate.
The Hive Gallery is celebrating a decade of supporting regional artists at the opening of its biggest group exhibition. The Ocean Grove art gallery will kick off its exhibition titled Toast next month with a nighttime opening event on 4 September to celebrate its 10th anniversary. Karen Spreadborough co-owns the gallery with her partner Will Wilson and said it was “quite unbelievable” to celebrate the milestone. “Relationships are crucial to understanding art, as well as to the long-term success and enjoyment of it all,” she said. “When we opened on a Friday night in 2016, it was with Will’s bronze sculptures filling the downstairs floor and only five other artists upstairs. “The gallery is always evolving, and we’re taking steps forward in the right direction in terms of strengthening the art that we showcase and the diversity of artists.” Ms Spreadborough said Toast will be the “most diverse and biggest group exhibition” as it aims to display artworks from artists who have exhibited at the gallery. “It’s more about the diversity, whereas normally there would be more of a cohesive connection between the art showing in an exhibition,” she said. “I’m also going to introduce just a sneak peek of a couple of artists during the exhibition that are coming to us in the year ahead to embrace the beginning of the next decade.” The opening event will run from 4pm to 7pm, with DJ Rob Major handling the music and the community welcome to attend.
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PSP just sneaks through By Matt Hewson Geelong council has resisted pressure from a major Geelong developer to scrap its first precinct structure plan (PSP) for the Northern and Western Geelong Growth Areas. The Creamery Road (PSP) narrowly passed at Tuesday night’s council meeting after passionate debate among the councillors, including an unsuccessful attempt to defer the matter. The council also heard from a representative from Villawood Properties, the precinct’s largest landholder and lead developer, who stated outright the development
would not proceed under the PSP and its $823,453 per hectare infrastructure levy. The PSP is a strategic master plan that would govern the transformation of the Creamery Road Precinct – the 345 hectares of rural land wedged between the Geelong-Ballan Road and the Geelong Ring Road just north of the Midland Highway – into 4500 homes. The PSP passed by the narrowest of margins; Mayor Stretch Kontelj and councillors Chris Burson, Andrew Katos, Emma Sinclair and Elise Wilkinson voted for, while Deputy Mayor Ron Nelson and councillors Anthony Aitken, Melissa Cadwell, Rowan Story and Trent Sullivan voted against.
The mayor broke the tie with a casting vote, sending the PSP to Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny for approval. Cr Katos said the planning minister would make a decision with or without the council’s input. “We need to send something as a council to the minister; if we were to not send anything…that sends a message that we’ve absolved ourselves of responsibility,” he said. “The original developer contribution plan amount that was put before council was just under $1.6 million per developable hectare. That has been reduced to $823,000. “At the advisory committee, Villawood proposed $760,000, so they’re not that far
apart.” Cr Aitken said as the main developer had stated the project would not proceed under the proposed PSP, the council needed to have discussions with Villawood. “I would like the item to be deferred and (that) we have discussions with the developer and investors to see how we can come to some type of compromise going forward,” he said. Mayor Kontelj advised those unhappy with the PSP to lobby the minister rather than “wasting time talking to us”. “The decision…is being made in Spring Street, that’s where I’d be driving and talking,” he said.
Youth Council announces new festival for young people By Matt Hewson Geelong’s junior councillors have presented their second report at this week’s council meeting. Junior mayor Vignesh “Viggy” Ram represented the 2026 Geelong Youth Council at Tuesday night’s meeting, presenting a report senior councillors praised as comprehensive and thoughtful. Detailing the experiences of the junior councillors and the events and opportunities they have engaged in throughout the year so far, the centrepiece of the report was the formal introduction of the Youth Council’s primary project Youth Festa-Fair. The free all-day event, which will be
held on Tuesday 29 September at the Geelong West Town Hall, will be open to the entire community but particularly focused on engaging young people aged 12 to 25. Intended to help address the high levels of loneliness and social isolation experienced by young people in a high-tech world, Youth Festa-Fair will feature five performance acts, youth-run stalls, free snacks and a range of social and independent activities. The event will also make available information about local youth services and present opportunities for young people to continue making connections after the event. “The Youth Fest Affair was developed
in response to one of the key issues we identified during our induction: youth loneliness and social isolation,” Junior Mayor Ram said. “Our aim is to create a welcoming, inclusive and low-pressure environment where young people can not only connect with one another, but also celebrate and show their talent, creativity and youthled business.” Councillor Emma Sinclair said the Youth Council’s work so far had been “so impressive”. “Congratulations…It’s so much work to pull together even a small event, (let alone) putting on a full-day festival that the entire community can enjoy,” she said.
Geelong Youth Council 2026. (Supplied)
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Claire Eldridge and Evie.
Rachel Crawford and Rowan Hamilton.
Mel Bragg and Lewis Wetherbee with baby Rory.
Frankie Willson and Bella Pearse.
Maddie Solly and Fleur Thomson.
Out and about at finals time It’s finals time for local footy and netball and Independent photographer Ivan Kemp was at St Albans Reserve on
Saturday 22 August for the GDFNL finals to see who was out and about.
Noah Bradford, Joel Diker, John Drohomirecki and Andy Ingram with the premiership cup for Werribee Centrals in the Western League thirds.
Jordy Stevenson and Annie Welsh. 573297
Grace Monkivitch and Bronte McConnachie.
Ashlee Feeney and Molly McIntosh.
Deborah Thorneycroft and Ruby Wesolowski.
Daniel Breckinridge with his son Domonic.
Sienna Bromley and Charlotte Tormey.
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The Guide THE NAKED WORLD SBS2, Friday, 8.30pm
As SBS2 leaves its partnership with Viceland behind and steps into a new era, the channel has promised to make Fridays “a little more spicy”. Enter this cheeky French-language doco, which examines attitudes and approaches to nudity all over the world – why is the human body embraced by some cultures when
others approach it with much more restraint? French Canadian actor Martin Vachon is on a globe-trotting mission – from Iceland and Japan to the US and Brazil – to find out. The first stop on his itinerary is Australia, where Vachon is intrigued by the contrasting traditions of our multicultural history. Without the modesty of pixelation or a blurring effect, it’s an eye-opening investigation. THE VOICE Seve Sunday, 7pm Seven,
Just two spots remain, one each on Melanie M C and Richard Marx’s team teams, as the blind auditions resum resume… or so they think. As the music superstars lock in their final musi artist artists, there’s smiles all around – unti Sonia Kruger pops in with an until update. It’s not over yet. Secret up fifth fift coach Tones and I (pictured) ha been rescuing singers who has didn’t did get a chair turn, and the they’re about to try again. While seeing see the celebrities’ reactions to th the news is great fun, it’s heart heartwarming to see a twist occur in reality rea TV that has a positive outcome. Rather than results, outc the “Dance “ Monkey” hitmaker is focus focused on inspiring confidence in her team, t playing to their strengths and providing a money-can’t-buy mentoring experience.
PICK OF THE WEEK AUSTRALIAN LIAN STORY: TING 30 YEARS CELEBRATING ABC TV, Monday, onday, 8pm
As it turns out, telling real stories about real people never gets es celebrating the old. Nor does strengths and nd weaknesses of the human an spirit, or the extraordinary ry achievements of everydayy Australians. This documentary-current entary-current affairs hybrid d is marking 30 years of insightful, original storytelling ytelling with a live event vent held at the Sydney Opera House. se. Presenter Leigh eigh Sales (pictured) red) welcomes actor and producer er Claudia Karvan, van, Olympic champion Michael Klim, community munity leader Mechelle helle Turvey, inspirational pirational maths teacher her Eddie Woo, farmers Gayle and Mac Shann, as well as the woman who began it all, executive producer Deborah eborah Fleming, to reflect on the much-loved h-loved program’s legacy. egacy.
THE TRAITORS AUSTRALIA 10, Tuesday, 7.30pm
At first glance, the cast of this latest Traitors iteration could be mistaken for a mishmash of reality TV royalty, but on closer inspection, it’s a finely tuned powder keg of dynamic personalities. Each cluster brings the best of their own franchises to the manor: Housewives Gamble and Krissy share a flair for dramatics and conflict, Drag Race Down Under judge Rhys Nicholson provides snappy commentary, and Survivor castaways Kirby, AJ and Henry have focused on strat-chats and blindsides. Special mention of course goes to host Gretel Killeen (pictured), who is reinvigorating the reality genre after almost 20 years away. On Tuesday, in-fighting abounds as the Traitors try to trap their fellow players.
Friday, August 28 ABC TV (2)
SBS (3)
SEVEN (6, 7)
NINE (8, 9)
TEN (5, 10)
6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Amanda & Alan’s Italian Job. (R) 10.30 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (PG, R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Portrait Artist Of The Year. (R) 1.50 Treasure & Dirt. (Final, Malv, R) 2.55 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 3.55 Murdoch Mysteries. (PG, R) 4.40 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6am Morning Programs. 8.00 BBC News At Six. 8.30 France 24 English News. 9.00 DD India News Hour. 10.10 Kew Gardens: Season By Season. (R) 11.00 One For The Road. (PG, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Junior Doctors Down Under. (Ma, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. H’lights.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: Fallen Angels Murder Club: Heroes And Felons. (2022, Mav, R) Toni Braxton. 3.00 The Chase. (R) 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: Cooking Up Love. (2021, G, R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. (PG, R) 5.00 [MELB] Tipping Point Australia. (PG, R) 5.30 WIN News.
6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Everyday Gourmet. (R) 8.00 Lingo. (R) 9.00 The Finish Line. (R) 10.00 Farm To Fork. (R) 10.30 Ent. Tonight. (R) 10.50 Attenborough’s Parenthood. (PGa, R) 12.00 Everyday Gourmet. 12.30 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) 1.00 News. 2.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 2.30 The Finish Line. (R) 3.30 Lingo. (R) 4.30 Bold. (PG) 5.00 News.
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Gardening Australia. The team explores the gardens of South-East Queensland. 8.20 Saint-Pierre. (M) Fitz’s enemy becomes prime suspect in a crime. 9.05 Portrait Artist Of The Year. (R) Nine artists create portraits of celebrities. 9.55 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 10.25 ABC Late News. 10.45 New Zealand Spy. (Final, PG, R) 11.05 Murdoch Mysteries. (Mav, R) 11.50 Rage New Music. (MA15+dhlnsv) 5.00 Rage. (PG)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.35 The Good Ship Murder. (Mv) 8.30 WWII With Tom Hanks. (PGaw) Looks at efforts to break Germany’s Enigma Code. 10.15 SBS World News Late. 10.45 The King. (Ma) 11.40 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (MA15+av, R) 1.25 World On Fire. (Malv, R) 3.35 Osher Günsberg: A Matter Of Life And Death. (Ma, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 AFL: Friday Night Countdown. A lead-up to the Friday night AFL match. 7.30 Football. AFL. Finals Series. WIldcard round. 11.15 GetOn Extra. Lizzie Jelfs, Matt Hill, Simon Marshall and Brent Zerafa dive headlong into the weekend’s best racing. 11.45 To Be Advised. 1.20 Eyewitness. (MA15+av, R) Helen looks for the murder weapon. 2.30 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 5.00 NBC Today.
6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Find My Country House Australia. (R) Hosted by Catriona Rowntree. 8.30 MOVIE: Ocean’s 8. (2018, Ml, R) A woman sets out to pull off a heist. Sandra Bullock, Cate Blanchett, Anne Hathaway. 10.40 MOVIE: Thelma & Louise. (1991, Mlv, R) 1.05 The Garden Gurus. (R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Postcards. (PG, R)
6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (PGs, R) 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (R) A couple must decide whether to leave or stay. 8.30 Have You Been Paying Attention? (Malns, R) Celebrity panellists compete to see who can remember the most about events of the week. 9.30 10’s Late News. Comprehensive coverage of local, national and international news, as well as the latest sport and weather. 10.30 Two And A Half Men. (PGs, R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
SBS2 (31)
7TWO (62, 72)
9GEM (81, 92)
10 COMEDY (52, 11)
6am Children’s Programs. 12.30pm Ben And Holly. 12.55 Talking Tom Heroes. 1.20 PJ Masks. 1.50 Kangaroo Beach. 2.30 The Makery. 2.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 3.00 Play School. 3.25 Wiggle. 4.05 Andy’s Aquatic Adventures. 4.20 Santiago Of The Seas. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 5.55 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.25 Paddington. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.35 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.00 Be Cool, Scooby-Doo! 8.50 Steven Universe. 9.40 BattleBots. 10.25 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 8.40 CBC The National. 9.30 BBC News At Six. 10.00 France 24 English News. 10.30 Derry Girls. 11.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. H’lights. Noon DW The Day. 12.30 Holy Marvels. 2.00 MOVIE: Clue. (1985, PG) 3.45 WorldWatch. 5.45 Inside The Huddle. 6.15 Over The Black Dot. 6.45 Jeopardy! 7.35 Celebrity Jeopardy. 8.30 The Naked World. (Premiere) 9.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. 1.50am Travel Man. 2.20 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera News Hour.
6am Morning Programs. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 The Great Australian Doorstep. 2.30 Weekender. 3.00 Coastwatch Oz. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Better Homes. 5.00 Escape To The Country. 6.00 Bargain Hunt. (Return) 7.00 Better Homes. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 10.30 The Americas. 11.30 Escape To The Country. 12.30am Bargain Hunt. 1.30 Surf Patrol. 2.00 Harry’s Practice. 2.30 Australia’s Deadliest. 3.00 Better Homes. 5.00 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 11.30 My Favorite Martian. Noon Poirot. 1.00 The Brokenwood Mysteries. 3.00 Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE: Some Will, Some Won’t. (1970, PG) 5.30 The Travelling Auctioneers. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Penrith Panthers v Canterbury Bulldogs. 9.55 NRL Friday Night Footy Post-Match. 10.45 MOVIE: Out Of Time. (2003, M) 12.55am Explore. 1.10 $SFÚP 1.40 MOVIE: Some Will, Some Won’t. (1970, PG) 3.30 Late Programs.
6am Shopping. 7.00 GCBC. 7.30 Farm To Fork. 8.00 Ent. Tonight. 8.30 Bold. 9.00 The Dog Academy. 10.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. 10.30 Becker. 11.00 Frasier. Noon Lingo. 1.00 The Inspired Unemployed (Impractical) Jokers. 2.00 Gogglebox Aust. 3.00 Friends. 4.00 Everyday Gourmet. 4.30 Becker. 5.00 Friends. 8.00 Two And A Half Men. (PGs, R) 10.00 Becker. 10.30 Frasier. 11.30 Ent. Tonight. Midnight Shopping. 2.30 Bold. 3.30 Shopping. 5.30 Joseph Prince.
NITV (34)
SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)
7MATE (64, 73)
9GO! (82, 93)
10 DRAMA (53, 12)
6am Morning Programs. 12.05pm MOVIE: Jackie Chan’s First Strike. (1996, M) 2.00 Kriol Kitchen. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 4.30 Dreaming Big. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.25 Nula. 5.55 Bamay. 6.35 Wildest Places: Great Barrier Reef. 7.30 MOVIE: Power Rangers. (2017, M) 9.50 MOVIE: I Like Movies. (2022, M) 11.35 Nula. 12.05am The Panther Within. 1.00 NITV On The Road: Women Of Barunga. 2.00 NITV On The Road: Barunga Bush Bands. 3.00 Late Programs.
6am Metropolis. (1927, PGav, German) 7.50 Thirteen Days. (2000, PGal) 10.30 Body Heat. (1981, Malnsv) 12.35 Absolute Power. (1997, Mlsv, R) 2.50 Forever Enthralled. (2008, PG, R, Mandarin) 5.30 Barefoot In The Park. (1967, PGs, R) 7.30 Truth. (2015, Malns, R) 9.45 Basic Instinct. (1992, R) 12.10am Purple Rain. (1984, Malsv) 2.10 Love Lies Bleeding. (2024, MA15+av) 4.00 How To Blow Up A Pipeline. (2022, Madlv)
6am Morning Programs. 10.00 NFL. Pre-season. Week 3. Las Vegas Raiders v San Francisco 49ers. 1.30pm American Pickers. 2.30 Kick Ons. 3.00 Timbersports. 3.30 Counting Cars. 4.30 American Resto. 5.00 Storage Wars. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Motorbike Cops. 8.30 MOVIE: Robin Hood. (2010, M) 11.25 MOVIE: Ace Ventura: When Nature Calls. (1995, PG) 1.25am American Resto. 2.00 American Pickers. 3.00 Counting Cars. 4.00 Motorbike Cops. 5.00 Ax Men.
6am Morning Programs. 11.30 Jeopardy! Australia. 12.30pm Rugby Heaven. 1.30 Baywatch. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Baywatch. 7.30 MOVIE: Harry Potter And The Half-Blood Prince. (2009, M) 10.35 MOVIE: Sicario. (2015, MA15+) 12.55am Legacies. 1.45 The Real Housewives Of Durban. 2.55 9Honey Hacks. 3.10 Jeopardy! Australia. 4.00 Barbie: Dreamhouse Adventures. 4.30 Hop. 4.50 LEGO Friends: The Next Chapter. 5.10 Wild Manes. 5.30 Late Programs.
6am Shopping. 8.00 Days Of Our Lives. 8.45 The Young And The Restless. 9.30 Living Room. 10.30 Building The Dream. 11.30 The Bold And The Beautiful. Noon Days Of Our Lives. 12.45 The Young And The Restless. 1.30 JAG. 3.30 Bull. 4.30 JAG. (PGlv, R) 6.30 Bull. (PGav, R) 7.30 NCIS. (M, R) 10.20 Bull. (PGav, R) 11.15 JAG. (PG, R) 1.15am Home Shopping.
CONSUMER ADVICE (P) Pre-school (C) Children (PG) Parental Guidance Recommended (M) Mature Audiences (MA15+) Mature Audiences Only (AV15+) Extreme Adult Violence (R) Repeat (a) Adult themes (d) Drug references (h) Horror (s) Sex references (l) Language (m) Medical procedures (n) Nudity (v) Violence.
VIC
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Saturday, August 29 SBS (3)
SEVEN (6, 7)
NINE (8, 9)
TEN (5, 10)
6.00 Rage Charts. (PG) 7.00 Weekend Breakfast. 9.00 Rage. (PG) 10.30 Rage Vault Guest Programmer. (PG) 12.00 Football. VFL. Finals Week. 3.00 Grantchester. (PGa, R) 3.45 Father Brown. (PGv, R) 4.30 Kitchen Cabinet. (Final, R) 5.00 Australian Story. (R) 5.35 Landline. (R)
6am Morning Programs. 9.00 DD India News Hour. 10.00 Oman From Above. (R) 11.00 Living In A Postcard. (R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Sailing. Sail Grand Prix Sassnitz. H’lights. 3.00 Marathon. Marathon De Paris. H’lights. 4.00 Going Places. (R) 4.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. H’lights. 5.35 The Exiles: Secretly Deported. (PGa)
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. $BVMÙFME Memsie Stakes Day. San Domenico Stakes Day. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)
6.00 Getaway. (PG, R) 6.30 A Current Affair. (R) 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Today Extra: Saturday. (PG) 12.00 Drive Review. 12.30 Destination WA. (R) 1.00 Find My Beach House Australia. (R) 1.40 The Block. (PGl, R) 4.30 The Garden Gurus. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Getaway. (PG)
6am Morning Programs. 8.30 All 4 Adventure. (l, R) 9.30 Frugal Foodie. (R) 10.00 Freshly Picked. (R) 10.30 What’s Up Down Under. (PG) 11.30 The Traitors Australia. (PGl, R) 1.00 Pooches At Play. (PG) 1.30 Country House Facelift. 2.00 Deal Or No Deal: Celebrity Jackpot. (PG, R) 3.00 The Finish Line. (R) 4.00 Lingo. (R) 5.00 News.
6.05 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R) 6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Presenter Tom Gleeson grills four self-declared experts in a comedic quiz show. 7.00 ABC News. A look at the top stories of the day. 7.30 Grantchester. (PGa) Alphy probes a secretive vicars’ retreat, doubting his place in the church. 8.20 Father Brown. (Ma) Father Brown and Flambeau hunt for a priceless holy relic while a new nemesis lurks in the shadows. 9.05 Midsomer Murders. (Mv, R) The body of a wealthy landowner goes missing on the night of his death, exposing a web of secrets. 10.35 Falling. (Ml, R) Anna attempts to adjust to her new life. 11.15 Little Disasters. (Final, Mal, R) 12.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)
6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Queen Elizabeth II: The Unseen Photos. Looks at newly-discovered photos of Queen Elizabeth II. 9.15 The Airport Chaplain. (Ml, R) Follows the chaotic work life of an airport chaplain. 10.15 Shaun Micallef’s Origin Odyssey: Denise Scott AM In Germany. (PGs, R) 11.15 DNA Family Secrets. (PG, R) 12.25 Something Undone. (Mal, R) 2.45 Australia Uncovered: Strong Female Lead. (Ma, R) 4.10 Seeds: Planting Hope Through Education. (PG, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Football. AFL. Finals Series. WIldcard round. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews taking a look back at all the action from the match. 11.00 MOVIE: Bombshell. (2019, Mals, R) A group of women takes on Fox News’ head Roger Ailes and the toxic atmosphere at the network. Charlize Theron, Nicole Kidman, Margot Robbie. 1.30 To Be Advised. 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 It’s Academic. (R) Students compete against other schools to win cash and prizes. Hosted by Simon Reeve. 5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer.
6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Round 26. North Queensland Cowboys v Wests Tigers. From Queensland Country Bank Stadium. 9.25 NRL Saturday Night Footy Post-Match. Post-match coverage of the NRL game. 10.00 MOVIE: Kong: Skull Island. (2017, Malv, R) Brie Larson, Tom Hiddleston. 12.10 Wild Cards. (Mav, R) 1.00 Australia’s Top Ten Of Everything. (PG, R) 2.00 The Incredible Journey Presents. (PGa) 2.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.30 Global Shop. (R) 5.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 5.30 Helping Hands. (PG, R)
6.30 Gogglebox Australia. (R) Opinionated viewers discuss TV shows. 7.30 Selling Houses Australia. (PGa) A woman needs the team’s help after a failed attempt to sell and move closer to her daughter. 8.40 Love It Or List It Australia. (R) A couple are at a crossroads over what to do with their home of less than two years. 9.40 Love It Or List It UK: Brilliant Builds. (PG) Kirstie and Phil look back on their best transformations of single-storey living. 10.40 Watson. (PGm, R) A geneediting experiment goes wrong. 11.40 FBI. (Mav, R) An attack disrupts cell, internet and emergency services. 12.30 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.
ABC FAMILY (22)
SBS2 (31)
7TWO (62, 72)
9GEM (81, 92)
10 COMEDY (52, 11)
6am Children’s Programs. 3pm Play School. 3.30 Emerald. 3.50 Talking Tom Heroes. 4.15 Stan & Gran. 5.20 5IF .PTU .BHOJÙDFOU Thing. 5.40 Super Monsters. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.20 Bluey. 7.05 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.30 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 7.55 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. 8.45 The Lady Grace Mysteries. 9.55 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.15 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 1.40pm Great Australian Concerts: The Angels. 2.45 If You Are The One. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.45 Mastermind Aust. 6.45 Engineering By Catastrophe. 7.40 History’s Greatest Machines. 8.30 Dating Apps: The Inside Story. 9.30 Couples Therapy. 10.50 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. 1.50am Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 1pm Feel Good Road Trips. 1.30 Australia’s Deadliest. 2.00 Better Homes. 4.00 Escape To The Country. 5.00 )PSTF 3BDJOH $BVMÙFME .FNTJF 4UBLFT Day. San Domenico Stakes Day. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bondi Vet. 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Escape To The Chateau. 9.30 Escape To The Country. 10.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 11.30 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 12.30pm Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Titans v Canberra Raiders. 2.30 NRLW Wrap. 3.15 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Roosters v Cronulla Sharks. 5.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. North Qld Cowboys v Knights. 7.00 Rugby League. NRL. North Qld Cowboys v Tigers. 7.30 TBA. 11.45 Memory Lane. 1.05am Late Programs.
6am GCBC. 7.00 Bold. 9.30 Millionaire Hot Seat. 11.00 Everyday Gourmet With Justine 4DIPÙFME 11.30 Frasier. 12.30 Ridiculousness. (PGal, R) 1.00 Friends. (PG, R) 6.00 The Big Bang Theory. (PG, R) 10.30 The Traitors Australia. (PGl, R) Midnight Ridiculousness. 1.30 Home Shopping.
NITV (34)
SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)
7MATE (64, 73)
9GO! (82, 93)
10 DRAMA (53, 12)
6am Morning Programs. 12.15pm Audrey Napanangka. 1.40 Nula. 2.10 Wildest Places: Great Barrier Reef. 3.05 Over The Black Dot. 3.35 Homesteads. 4.10 Anthem Sessions. 4.50 Our Medicine. 6.00 Bamay. 6.40 The Other Side. 7.30 Alone Australia. 8.30 MOVIE: Poltergeist. (1982, M) 10.35 Stompem Ground 2022: Midnight Oil. 12.30am Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 12.15pm How To Blow Up A Pipeline. (2022, Madlv) 2.10 Paperback Hero. (1999, PGalsv) 4.00 Metropolis. (1927, PGav, German) 6.50 Enchanted Kingdom. 8.30 Zodiac. (2007, MA15+v) 11.25 My Sole Desire. (2022, MA15+ansv, French) 1.35am Basic Instinct. (1992) 3.50 Post Coitum, Animal Triste. (1997, Malsv, French) 5.40 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 1pm Blokesworld. 1.30 The Car Club. 2.00 Rides Down Under: Aussie Truckers. 3.00 Motor Racing. Night Thunder. USA New Year Sprintcars. Replay. 4.00 Deep Water Salvage. 5.00 Counting Cars. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 MOVIE: Sleepless In Seattle. (1993, PG) 9.45 MOVIE: Terminator Salvation. (2009, M) 12.05am Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 1.35pm Soccer. English Premier League. Hull v Manchester United. 3.35 Outback Opal Hunters. 4.35 The Dog House UK. 5.35 MOVIE: ScoobyDoo 2: Monsters Unleashed. (2004, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows: Part 1. (2010, M) 10.25 MOVIE: Beetlejuice. (1988, M) 12.20am Late Programs.
6am Shopping. 9.00 Reel Action. 9.30 The Traitors Australia. 11.00 Roads Less Travelled. 11.30 Building The Dream. 12.30pm The Living Room. 2.30 JAG. 4.30 Reel Action. 5.00 Escape Fishing With ET. 5.30 JAG. 7.30 NCIS. (Ma, R) 10.20 JAG. (PGv, R) 12.15am Home Shopping.
12890164-LD32-26 12881757-AF27-26
ABC TV (2)
Sunday, August 30 ABC TV (2)
SBS (3)
SEVEN (6, 7)
NINE (8, 9)
TEN (5, 10)
6am Morning Programs. 10.30 World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Praise. 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. 1.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 2.15 Portrait Artist Of The Year. (R) 3.05 End Game With Tony Armstrong. (PGl, R) 4.00 Creative Types. (PGl, R) 4.30 Amanda & Alan’s Italian Job. (R) 5.00 Take 5. (PG, R) 5.30 Back Roads. (n, R)
6.00 Sydney Marathon. Coverage of the Sydney Marathon. 10.30 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. H’lights. 11.30 France 24 English News. 12.00 WorldWatch. 1.00 Motor Racing. Muscle Car Masters. From Sydney Motorsport Park. 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. Stage 8. Highlights.
6.00 NBC Today. 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R) 1.00 Football. AFL Women’s. Melbourne v Brisbane. 3.00 Football. AFL Women’s. Collingwood v Hawthorn. From Victoria Park, Melbourne. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 The Great Outdoors. (PG, R)
6.00 Hello SA. (PG, R) 6.30 ACA. (R) 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 AFL Sunday Footy Show. (PG) 12.00 Wide World Of Sports. (PG) 1.00 GolfBarons. (PG, R) 1.30 The Block. (PGl, R) 4.00 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo. (PGm, R) 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Postcards. (PG)
6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Freshly Picked. (R) 9.30 GCBC. (R) 10.00 Good Food Everyday. (PGa, R) 10.30 Frugal Foodie. (R) 11.00 Farm To Fork. (R) 11.30 Deal Or No Deal. (PG, R) 12.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) 12.30 Gogglebox Aust. (R) 1.30 The Traitors Australia. (PGl, R) 3.00 The Finish Line. (R) 4.00 Lingo. (R) 5.00 News.
6.00 Antiques Roadshow. (Final) 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 Portrait Artist Of The Year. (PG) Nine artists create celebrity portraits. 8.20 The Cage. (Premiere, Md) Two employees of a Liverpool casino discover that they have both been stealing money. 9.10 Falling. (Ml) With David still in denial, he and Anna must face some uncomfortable truths. 9.50 Grantchester. (PGa, R) Alphy probes a secretive vicars’ retreat. 10.40 Father Brown. (Ma, R) 11.30 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 2.00 The Cook And The Chef. (R) 2.30 Midsomer Murders. (Mv, R) 4.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 5.00 Insiders. (R)
6.00 Going Places With Ernie Dingo. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 9/11: The Day That Changed The World. 9.15 Castle Secrets: Inspiring A Monster, A Death Ritual, Reaching Da Vinci. (Mav, R) 10.10 Kennedy: Crisis (January 1962-October 1962) (PG, R) 11.00 Dunhuang: Ancient Frontier Fortress. (MA15+v, R) 1.00 Meet The Wallers. (Ml) 2.40 Spike Milligan: The Unseen Archive. (Mal, R) 3.40 Tommy Fleming Live From Galway Cathedral. (R) 4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 WorldWatch.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 The Voice. (PG) Standout talent hits the stage. 8.45 7NEWS Spotlight. Focuses on major breaking news events and long-form investigations PG OBUJPOBM TJHOJÙDBODF 9.45 The Wrong Man? Behind Bars For 20 Years. (Mav) Looks at convicted killer Paul Denham. 11.15 24 Hours In Police Custody: Sex And Corruption. (MA15+as, R) 12.15 Curfew. (MA15+av) 1.15 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 9News Sunday. 7.00 The Block. (PGl) The winner of the main ensuite prize is announced. 8.30 60 Minutes. Current affairs program. 9.30 9News Late. 10.00 The First 48: Unforgotten – Crystal Pt 2. (Malv) 10.40 Murder In The 21st: #ATÚSH +ILLER (Mv) 11.40 James Bulger: The Trial. (MA15+aav) 12.30 Elements Of Disaster: Earth/Air. (PGa, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 Destination WA. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.30 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 Gogglebox Australia. TV fanatics open up their living rooms to reveal their reactions to popular and topical TV shows. 8.00 Watson. (Mm) The team races to save a man and his pregnant wife from a terrifying sinkhole. Ingrid’s future with her therapy group becomes unclear. 9.00 FBI. (Mv) The team works UPHFUIFS UP ÚJQ UIFJS POMZ XJUOFTT after an undercover operation led by Nina goes sideways. 12.00 10 News+. (R) Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 12.30 Home Shopping. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
SBS2 (31)
7TWO (62, 72)
9GEM (81, 92)
10 COMEDY (52, 11)
6am Children’s Programs. 3.30pm Zog And The Flying Doctors. 4.30 Little J And Big Cuz. 4.50 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.20 The Gruffalo’s Child. 6.05 PJ Masks. 6.25 Zog. 7.05 Do Not Watch This Show. 7.30 The Inbestigators. 7.45 The Lady Grace Mysteries. 8.10 Secrets Of The Penguins. (Final) 8.55 Animal Park. 10.20 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 11.30 MOVIE: Michael Collins. (1996, M) 2pm John And Joe Bishop: Life After Deaf. 3.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. H’lights. 4.00 Jeopardy! 4.30 WorldWatch. 5.55 Bermuda Triangle: Into Cursed Waters. 6.45 Abandoned Engineering. 7.40 Travel Man. 8.10 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. 1.50am Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. Noon One Road: Great Australian Road Trips. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Harry’s Practice. 3.00 Better Homes. 5.00 My Greek Odyssey. 6.00 Escape To The Country. 7.00 Vicar Of Dibley. 8.30 Vera. 10.30 The Thief, His Wife And The Canoe. 11.30 Vicar Of Dibley. 1am Better Homes. 2.00 Vera. 4.00 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Eels v Broncos. 3.30 Rugby League. NRL. Eels v Cronulla Sharks. 6.00 Rugby League. NRL Women’s Premiership. Tigers v Canterbury Bulldogs. 8.00 David Attenborough’s Asia. 9.00 Paramedics. 10.00 Emergency. 11.00 Cold Case. Midnight Late Programs.
6am Home Shopping. 7.30 Deal Or No Deal. 9.00 Lingo. 12.00 Becker. (PG, R) 12.30 Frasier. (PGa, R) 1.30 Friends. (PG, R) 6.30 Two And A Half Men. (PGas, R) 10.30 The Traitors Australia. (PGl, R) 12.00 Two And A Half Men. (PGls, R) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R)
NITV (34)
SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)
7MATE (64, 73)
9GO! (82, 93)
10 DRAMA (53, 12)
6am Morning Programs. 2.10pm Football. West Kimberley Football League. Men’s. Grand Final. Replay. 3.50 Bamay. 4.25 Reconciliation Memoirs: June Oscar AO. 5.55 Bamay. 6.35 Wildest Places: Great Barrier Reef. 7.30 Earth Oven. (Final) 8.30 Kaepernick & America. 10.00 MOVIE: Mad Max III: Beyond Thunderdome. (1985, M) 11.55 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 10.20 Purple Rain. (1984, Malsv) 12.25pm Truth. (2015, Malns) 2.45 A United Kingdom. (2016, PGa) 4.50 Paperback Hero. (1999, PGalsv) 6.40 Clue. (1985, PGsv) 8.30 Pig. (2021, Malv) 10.10 Boogie Nights. (1997, MA15+adsv) 1am Zodiac. (2007, MA15+v) 3.50 Too Cool To Kill. (2022, Mav, Mandarin) 5.50 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. Noon The Fishing Show By AFN. 1.00 Fishing Addiction. 2.00 Red’s Fishing Adventures. 2.30 Fish’n Mates. 3.00 Air Crash Inv. 4.00 Deep Water Salvage. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Border Security USA. 7.00 Football. AFL Women’s. Essendon v Richmond. 9.15 MOVIE: Jurassic Park. (1993, PG) 11.45 MOVIE: Nope. (2022, M) 2.25am Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 2.45pm LEGO Masters Aust Vs World. 4.00 The Toys That Built The World. 5.00 Cards And Collectables Australia. 5.30 MOVIE: Tom & Jerry. (2021) 7.30 MOVIE: Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows: Part 2. (2011, M) 10.00 MOVIE: Shazam! Fury Of The Gods. (2023, M) 12.30am Late Programs.
6am Shopping. 7.30 Leading The Way. 8.00 Building The Dream. 9.00 Roads Less Travelled. 9.30 The Traitors Australia. 11.00 Escape Fishing. 11.30 Building The Dream. 12.30pm What’s Up Down Under. 1.30 Buy To Build. 2.00 JAG. 4.00 Pooches At Play. 4.30 Bondi Rescue. 5.00 I Fish. (Return) 5.30 JAG. 7.30 NCIS. 10.20 Fire Country. 11.15 JAG. 1.15am Shopping.
14 GEELONG INDEPENDENT Friday, 28 August, 2026
Monday, August 31 ABC TV (2)
SBS (3)
SEVEN (6, 7)
NINE (8, 9)
TEN (5, 10)
6am Morning Programs. 10.45 Father Brown. (Ma, R) 11.30 Nigella At My Table. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Landline. (R) 2.00 Back Roads. (R) 2.30 Home Delivery. (PG, R) 3.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 4.00 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGa, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PGa, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (PG, R)
6am Morning Programs. 10.20 Kew Gardens: Season By Season. (R) 11.10 One For The Road. (PG, R) 12.05 WorldWatch. 2.00 Bettany Hughes: Eastern Turkey Treasures. (PGas, R) 3.00 Going Places. (R) 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. H’lights.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Beat The Chasers UK. (R) 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. (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 The Block. (PGl, R) 1.30 Find My Country House Australia. (R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. (PG) 5.30 WIN News.
6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Everyday Gourmet. (R) 8.00 Lingo. (R) 9.00 The Finish Line. (R) 10.00 Farm To Fork. (R) 10.30 Ent. Tonight. (R) 11.00 Gogglebox Aust. (R) 12.00 Everyday Gourmet. 12.30 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) 1.00 News. 2.00 Deal Or No Deal. (PG, R) 2.30 The Finish Line. (R) 3.30 Lingo. (R) 4.30 Bold. (PG) 5.00 News.
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 7.30. Presented by Sarah Ferguson. 8.00 Australian Story: Celebrating 30 Years. Hosted by Leigh Sales. 9.10 Media Watch. (PG) Presented by Linton Besser. 9.30 Planet America. A look at American politics. 10.00 Foreign Correspondent. (R) 10.30 ABC Late News. 10.45 The Business. (R) 11.05 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGa, R) 11.50 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PGa, R) 12.35 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 2.40 Gardening Australia. (R) 3.40 Love Your Garden. (PG, R) 4.30 Antiques Roadshow. (PG, R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.35 Bill Bailey’s Vietnam Adventure. (PG, R) 8.30 24 Hours In Emergency: Bless The Child. (M) A 92-year-old woman is rushed to emergency. 9.25 Alone Australia. (Ml, R) The competitors are pushed to the brink. 10.30 SBS World News Late. 11.00 Gomorrah: The Origins. (Premiere, Malv) 1.05 Fargo. (MA15+v, R) 2.45 Australia Uncovered: Bowraville Murders. (Malv, R) 4.20 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. Sonny’s world collapses. 7.30 The Voice. (PGal) The remaining members of Team Tones And I will take to the stage in the second chance blind auditions. 9.05 The Rookie. (Mav) Chen returns to work in the aftermath of the attack. An unexpected twist hinders the Liam Glasser case. 10.05 The Agenda Setters. (R) An expert panel tackles the biggest AFL topics. 11.05 The Agenda Setters: Rugby League. 12.05 Transplant. (MA15+a, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 The Block. (PGl) The teams must deliver three big areas. &OOTY #LASSIÚED (Ml) A team of footy experts tackles the AFL’s big issues and controversies. 9.40 Players. (Ml) Three of the AFL’s biggest stars talk about all UIF OFXT PO BOE PGG UIF ÙFME 10.40 9News Late. 11.10 100% Footy. (Mal) 12.05 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 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 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (PG) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG) Six contestants answer multiple-choice questions that escalate in cash-prize value. 7.30 Deal Or No Deal: Celebrity Jackpot. (PG) The Wiggles attempt to beat the Banker and win big for their charity. 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 10’s Late News. Comprehensive coverage of local, national and international news, as well as the latest sport and weather. 10.40 Two And A Half Men. (PGs, R) Charlie attends one of Jake’s games. 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
SBS2 (31)
7TWO (62, 72)
9GEM (81, 92)
10 COMEDY (52, 11)
6am Children’s Programs. 3pm Play School: What’s Cooking? 3.25 Wiggle. 4.05 Andy’s Aquatic Adventures. 4.20 Santiago Of The Seas. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 Paddington. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.30 Hard Quiz Kids. 10.00 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. Noon France 24 English News. 12.30 David Harewood On Blackface. 1.30 We’re All Gonna Die (Even Jay Baruchel) 2.05 Viking Quest: America. 3.00 Over The Black Dot. 3.30 WorldWatch. 5.30 Alone Germany. 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Raw Comedy 2026. 10.15 Shaun Micallef’s Origin Odyssey. 11.20 The Airport Chaplain. 11.50 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 My Greek Odyssey. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 Auction Squad. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Australia’s Deadliest. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Doc Martin. 8.30 A Touch Of Frost. 10.15 Mighty Ships. 11.15 Escape To The Country. 12.15am Bargain Hunt. 1.15 Late Programs.
6am Tennis. US Open. Day 1 Late. 3pm Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 Antiques Downunder. 4.00 Find My Country House NZ. 4.30 Take Me Home. 5.30 The Travelling Auctioneers. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Death In Paradise. 8.30 Agatha Raisin. 10.30 Rizzoli & Isles. 11.30 The First 48. 12.30am Antiques Roadshow. 1.00 Tennis. US Open.
6am Morning Programs. 8.30 Ent. Tonight. 9.00 GCBC. 9.30 Farm To Fork. 10.00 Bold. 10.30 Deal Or No Deal. 11.00 Lingo. Noon The Traitors Australia. 1.30 Friends. 3.00 Frasier. 4.00 Everyday Gourmet. 4.30 Becker. 5.00 Frasier. 6.00 Friends. 8.00 Two And A Half Men. 9.30 Becker. 10.00 Frasier. 11.00 Ridiculousness. 11.30 Ent. Tonight. Midnight Shopping. 2.30 Bold. 3.30 Shopping.
NITV (34)
SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)
7MATE (64, 73)
9GO! (82, 93)
10 DRAMA (53, 12)
6am Morning Programs. 2pm Kriol Kitchen. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 4.30 Dreaming Big. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.30 The 77 Percent. 6.00 Bamay. 6.40 Africa’s Underwater Wonders. 7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? 8.30 Living Black. 9.00 The Colleano Heart. 10.35 MOVIE: Legends Of The Fall. (1994, MA15+) 12.55am Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 11.10 Post Coitum, Animal Triste. (1997, Malsv, French) 1pm Samia. (2024, Mlv) 3.00 Made In England: The Films Of Powell And Pressburger. (2024, PGa) 5.25 Charade. (1963, PGv) 7.30 Proof Of Life. (2000, Madlv) 10.00 Grace Of Monaco. (2014) Midnight Breath. (2017, Mals) 2.10 Boogie Nights. (1997, MA15+adsv) 5.00 Charade. (1963, PGv)
6am Morning Programs. 2.30pm Motor Racing. Supercars C’ship. Support Races. Carrera Cup. H’lights. 3.30 Counting Cars. 4.30 American Resto. 5.00 Storage Wars. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 The Agenda Setters. 8.30 Aussie Gold Hunters. 9.30 Gem Hunters Down Under. 10.30 Outback Opal Hunters. 11.30 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 11.30 Outback Opal Hunters. 1.30pm Baywatch. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Baywatch. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes Of Grindelwald. (2018, M) 11.10 Seinfeld. 12.10am Love Island UK: All Stars. (Return) 1.30 Legacies. 2.20 Outback Opal Hunters. 4.00 Late Programs.
6am Shopping. 8.00 Days Of Our Lives. 8.45 The Young And The Restless. 9.30 Living Room. 10.30 Building The Dream. 11.30 Bold. Noon Days Of Our Lives. 12.45 The Young And The Restless. 1.30 JAG. 3.30 Bull. 4.30 JAG. 6.30 Bull. 7.30 NCIS. (M, R) 10.20 Bull. (PGav, R) 11.15 JAG. 1.15am Shopping.
We
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Tuesday, September 1 ABC TV (2)
SBS (3)
SEVEN (6, 7)
NINE (8, 9)
TEN (5, 10)
6am Morning Programs. 9.00 News. 10.00 Morning Programs. 11.10 Planet America. (R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Grantchester. (PGa, R) 2.00 Back Roads. (PG, R) 2.30 Home Delivery. (PG, R) 3.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 4.00 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGa, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PGa, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6am Morning Programs. 9.15 For The Love Of Dogs. (PGa, R) 10.15 Vintage Voltage. (R) 11.10 Inside Oxford Street. (Ml, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Bettany Hughes: Treasures Of Oman. (R) 3.00 Living Black. (R) 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Brooklyn Bridge: Engineering Masterpiece. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Bridge Of Lies: Celebrity Specials. (R) 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. (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 The Block. (PGl, R) 1.00 Ski Rescue Down Under. (PGam, R) 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. (PG) 5.30 WIN News.
6am Morning Programs. 8.00 Lingo. (R) 9.00 The Finish Line. (R) 10.00 Farm To Fork. (R) 10.30 Ent. Tonight. (R) 11.00 Deal Or No Deal: Celebrity Jackpot. (PG, R) 12.00 Everyday Gourmet. 12.30 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) 1.00 News. 2.00 Deal Or No Deal. (PG, R) 2.30 The Finish Line. (R) 3.30 Lingo. (R) 4.30 Bold. (PG) 5.00 News.
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Foreign Correspondent. 8.30 Tampa: The Turning Point. (Premiere, PGa) 9.20 I Was Actually There. (Ml, R) 9.50 Take 5 With Zan Rowe. (PG, R) 10.20 ABC Late News. 10.35 The Business. (R) 10.55 Australian Story: Celebrating 30 Years. (R) 12.05 Media Watch. (PG, R) 12.25 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGa, R) 1.10 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 1.55 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 2.40 Gardening Australia. (R) 3.40 Love Your Garden. (PG, R) 4.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Shaun Micallef’s Origin Odyssey: Matt Okine In Ghana. (PGa) 8.30 Insight. 9.30 Dateline: Buying Sex In Sweden. Looks at Sweden’s Nordic Model approach to sex work. 10.00 SBS World News Late. 10.30 Stanley Tucci: Searching For Italy: Sicily. (PG, R) 11.20 Mussolini: Son Of The Century. (Premiere, MA15+v) 12.30 Litvinenko. (Ma, R) 4.10 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGadv) 7.30 First Dates Australia. (Mals) Eight TJOHMFT UBLF B IVHF MFBQ UP ÙOE MPWF 8.30 World’s Biggest Cruise Ship. (Premiere, PG) Follows a team of engineers as they race to build one of the largest cruise ships in the world. 9.30 Ramsay’s Kitchen Nightmares USA. (MA15+l) Gordon Ramsay helps a restaurant owner. 10.30 The Agenda Setters. (R) 11.30 Happy’s Place. (PGal) 12.00 The Path. (Premiere, MA15+adlv) 1.15 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 The Block. (PGl) Fireplaces cause headaches for the teams. 8.40 Travel Guides. (PGs, R) The travel guides head to Hong Kong. &OOTY #LASSIÚED (Ml) Footy experts tackle the AFL’s big issues. 10.50 9News Late. 11.20 Outback Opal Hunters. (PGal) 12.15 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 1.05 GolfBarons. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Let’s Eat With George. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (PG) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 The Traitors Australia. (PGl) *O ÙHIUJOH BCPVOET BOE UFNQFST ÚBSF as the traitors try to trap the players in a world of smoke and mirrors. 9.00 The Cheap Seats. (Mal) Presenters Melanie Bracewell and Tim McDonald take a look at the week that was. 10.00 10’s Late News. Comprehensive coverage of local, national and international news, as well as the latest sport and weather. 11.00 Two And A Half Men. (M, R) Alan tricks Charlie. 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
SBS2 (31)
7TWO (62, 72)
9GEM (81, 92)
10 COMEDY (52, 11)
6am Children’s Programs. 3pm Play School: What’s Cooking? 3.25 Wiggle. 4.05 Andy’s Aquatic Adventures. 4.20 Santiago Of The Seas. 5.40 Kangaroo Beach. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.30 Harry Potter: Wizards Of Baking. 10.10 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. Noon DW The Day. 12.30 Riot Island: Prison Without Walls. 1.25 We’re All Gonna Die (Even Jay Baruchel) 2.00 Viking Quest: America. 2.55 Inside The Huddle. 3.40 WorldWatch. 5.40 Alone Germany. (Final) 6.50 Jeopardy! 7.45 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.40 MOVIE: The Nice Guys. (2016, MA15+) 10.50 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. 1.50am Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Creek To Coast. 2.30 Mighty Ships. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Australia’s Deadliest. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Call The Midwife. 8.45 Inspector Morse. 11.05 Escape To The Country. 12.05am Bargain Hunt. 1.00 Late Programs.
6am Tennis. US Open. Day 2 Late. 3pm Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 Antiques Downunder. 4.00 Find My Country House NZ. 4.30 Take Me Home. 5.30 The Travelling Auctioneers. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 New Tricks. (Malv, R) 8.30 Agatha Christie’s Marple. (PGlv, R) 10.30 Rizzoli & Isles. 11.30 Poirot. 12.30am Antiques Roadshow. 1.00 Tennis. US Open.
6am Morning Programs. 8.30 Ent. Tonight. 9.00 GCBC. 9.30 Farm To Fork. 10.00 Bold. 10.30 Deal Or No Deal. 11.00 Lingo. Noon The Traitors Australia. 1.30 Friends. 3.00 Frasier. 4.00 Everyday Gourmet. 4.30 Becker. 5.00 Frasier. 6.00 Friends. 8.00 Two And A Half Men. 9.30 Becker. 10.00 Frasier. 11.00 Ridiculousness. 11.30 Ent. Tonight. Midnight Shopping. 2.30 Bold. 3.30 Shopping.
NITV (34)
SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)
7MATE (64, 73)
9GO! (82, 93)
10 DRAMA (53, 12)
6am Morning Programs. 2pm Kriol Kitchen. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 4.30 Dreaming Big. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.30 Indian Country Today News. 6.00 Bamay. 6.40 Africa’s Underwater Wonders. 7.30 The Point. 8.00 Murder In Big Horn. 9.00 MOVIE: Rhymes For Young Ghouls. (2013, MA15+) 10.35 NAIDOC Awards 2026. 12.30am Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 10.50 Pig. (2021, Malv) 12.30pm Proof Of Life. (2000, Madlv) 3.00 The Movie Show. 3.35 Wings Of Desire. (1987, PGaln, German) 6.00 The 39 Steps. (1935, PGav) 7.40 Driving Miss Daisy. (1989) 9.30 One Life. (2023, PGalv) 11.30 Some Kind Of Beautiful. (2014, Madls) 1.25am Syriana. (2005, MA15+alv) 3.45 Samia. (2024, Mlv) 5.45 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. Noon Ice Road Truckers. 2.00 Storage Wars. 2.30 Gem Hunters Down Under. 3.30 Counting Cars. 4.30 American Resto. 5.00 Storage Wars. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 The Agenda Setters. 8.30 Outback Wreckers. 9.30 Outback Truckers. 10.30 Heavy Tow Truckers Down Under. 11.30 Ice Road Truckers. 12.30am Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 11.30 My Way. 11.45 Jeopardy! Australia. 12.45pm MOVIE: Framed By My Fiancé. (2017, M) 2.30 Baywatch. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Baywatch. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Green Lantern. (2011, M) 10.50 Seinfeld. 11.50 Jane The Virgin. 12.40am Love Island UK: All Stars. 1.40 Legacies. 2.30 Late Programs.
6am Shopping. 8.00 Days Of Our Lives. 8.45 The Young And The Restless. 9.30 Living Room. 10.30 Building The Dream. 11.30 Bold. Noon Days Of Our Lives. 12.45 The Young And The Restless. 1.30 Bondi Rescue. 2.00 The Traitors Australia. 3.30 Bull. 4.30 JAG. 6.30 Bull. 7.30 NCIS. (M, R) 10.20 Bull. 11.15 JAG. 1.15am Shopping.
Friday, 28 August, 2026 GEELONG INDEPENDENT 15
Wednesday, September 2 ABC TV (2)
SBS (3)
SEVEN (6, 7)
NINE (8, 9)
TEN (5, 10)
6am Morning Programs. 11.00 Back Roads. (PGn, R) 11.30 Take 5. (PGl, R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 2.00 Back Roads. (R) 2.30 Home Delivery. (PG, R) 3.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 4.00 Murdoch Mysteries. (PGa, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PGa, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6am Morning Programs. 8.30 France 24 English News. 9.00 DD India News Hour. 10.15 Vintage Voltage. (PGl, R) 11.10 Inside Oxford Street. (Ml, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Dateline. (R) 2.30 Insight. (R) 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Jeopardy! 4.30 Letters And Numbers. (R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. H’lights.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Bridge Of Lies: Celebrity Specials. (R) 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. (R) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 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 The Block. (PGl, R) 1.00 Getaway. (PG, R) 1.30 Destination WA. 2.00 Pointless. (PG, R) 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. (PG) 5.30 WIN News.
6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Everyday Gourmet. (R) 8.00 Lingo. (R) 9.00 The Finish Line. (R) 10.00 Ent. Tonight. (R) 10.30 The Traitors Australia. (PGl, R) 12.00 Everyday Gourmet. 12.30 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) 1.00 News. 2.00 Deal Or No Deal. (PG, R) 2.30 The Finish Line. (R) 3.30 Lingo. (R) 4.30 Bold. (PG) 5.00 News.
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PGa, R) 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Hard Quiz. (PGa) 8.30 Spicks And Specks. (PG) Hosted by comedian Adam Hills. 9.00 Small Town Scandal. (Mal, R) A disgraced journalist tries to save his career. 9.50 Planet America. (R) 10.25 ABC Late News. 10.40 The Business. (R) 10.55 The Cage. (Md, R) 11.45 Murdoch Mysteries. (Ma, R) 12.30 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (PG, R) 1.15 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 2.40 Gardening Australia. (R) 3.40 Love Your Garden. (PG, R) 4.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 Alone Australia. (Ml) Survivalists are pushed to their limits. 8.35 The Airport Chaplain. (Ml) Tobias and Mira juggle multiple crises at once. 9.40 James May: Our Man In India. (PG, R) James May ÙOET IJNTFMG JO %FMIJ 10.40 SBS World News Late. 11.10 The Congregation. (Malv) 12.05 Crime. (MA15+a, R) 3.00 Who Do You Think You Are? Sue Perkins. (PGa, R) 4.05 Hitler’s Putsch: Birth Of The Nazi Party. (PGa, R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. 7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PGa, R) Hosted by Lee Mack. 8.30 The Front Bar. (Ml) Takes a lighter look at all things AFL. 5NÚLTERED (PG) Hamish McLachlan sits down with key football stars and personalities to reveal their stories. 10.00 The Agenda Setters. (R) 11.00 The Fall And Rise Of Reggie Dinkins. (PGals) 11.30 Stumble. (PGalv) 12.00 Everything I Know About Love. (Mals) 1.00 Harry’s Practice. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 The Block. (PGl) The teams compete in an action-packed challenge. 8.40 Steve Irwin: A Wild Life. Looks at the life of the late Steve Irwin. 9.50 9News Late. 10.20 Trigger Point. (MA15+alv) 11.20 Accused: Guilty Or Innocent? (Ma) 12.10 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) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG) Six contestants answer multiple-choice questions that escalate in cash-prize value. 7.30 The Traitors Australia. (PGl) Urgency skyrockets amongst the faithfuls as the stakes increase. 9.00 Boston Blue. (Mv) Danny and Lena race to stop a string of violent crimes. Sarah’s family outing takes an unexpected turn. 10.00 10’s Late News. Comprehensive coverage of local, national and international news, as well as the latest sport and weather. 11.00 The Cheap Seats. (Mal, R) Presented by Melanie Bracewell and Tim McDonald. 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
SBS2 (31)
7TWO (62, 72)
9GEM (81, 92)
10 COMEDY (52, 11)
6am Children’s Programs. 3pm Play School: What’s Cooking? 4.05 Andy’s Aquatic Adventures. 4.20 Santiago Of The Seas. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 Paddington. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.25 The Piano. 10.25 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 1.25pm We’re All Gonna Die (Even Jay Baruchel) 2.00 Viking Quest: America. 2.55 12 Dishes In 12 Hours. 3.35 WorldWatch. 5.30 Alone Denmark. (Return) 6.40 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Precious Metal: A Love Story. (Premiere) 9.30 The Future. 10.30 Ramy. (Premiere) 11.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. 1.50am Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 The Amazing Homemakers. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 House Calls To The Rescue. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Australia’s Deadliest. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Heartbeat. 8.45 Foyle’s War. 10.55 Escape To The Country. 11.55 Bargain Hunt. 1am Late Programs.
6am Tennis. US Open. Day 3 Late. 3pm Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 Antiques Downunder. 4.00 Find My Country House NZ. 4.30 Poirot. 5.30 The Travelling Auctioneers. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 As Time Goes By. (R) 8.30 Midsomer Murders. (PGal, R) 10.30 Rizzoli & Isles. 11.30 Poirot. 12.30am Antiques Roadshow. 1.00 Tennis. US Open.
6am Morning Programs. 9.00 GCBC. 9.30 Farm To Fork. 10.00 Bold. 10.30 Deal Or No Deal. 11.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. 11.30 Lingo. 12.30pm Becker. 1.00 Friends. 3.00 Frasier. 4.00 Everyday Gourmet. 4.30 Becker. 5.00 Frasier. 6.00 Friends. 8.00 Two And A Half Men. 9.30 Becker. 10.00 Frasier. 11.00 Ridiculousness. 11.30 Ent. Tonight. Midnight Shopping. 2.30 Bold. 3.30 Shopping.
NITV (34)
SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)
7MATE (64, 73)
9GO! (82, 93)
10 DRAMA (53, 12)
6am Morning Programs. 2pm Kriol Kitchen. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 4.30 Dreaming Big. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.30 News. 6.00 Bamay. 6.40 Africa’s Underwater Wonders. 7.30 Friday Night Thunder. (Premiere) 8.30 Pro Bull Riding Australia. 9.30 Over The Black Dot. 10.00 Inside The Huddle. 10.30 Late Programs.
6am The 39 Steps. (1935, PGav) 7.25 One Life. (2023, PGalv) 9.30 Driving Miss Daisy. (1989) 11.20 Breath. (2017, Mals) 1.30pm Charade. (1963, PGv) 3.35 Grace Of Monaco. (2014) 5.30 The Third Man. (1949, PGav) 7.30 The Whale. (2022, Madls) 9.40 Kneecap. (2024) 11.40 Midsommar. (2019, MA15+ansv) 2.20am The Queen. (2006, Ml) 4.15 The Tunnel (Part 1) (2001, Malv)
6am Morning Programs. Noon Ice Road Truckers. 2.00 Storage Wars. 2.30 Heavy Tow Truckers Down Under. 3.30 Deadliest Roads. 4.30 American Resto. 5.00 Storage Wars. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 The Agenda Setters. 8.30 The Force: BTL. 9.30 Caught On Dashcam. 10.30 World’s Wildest Police Videos. 12.30am Storage Wars. 1.00 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 11.40 Jeopardy! UK. 12.40pm MOVIE: Pool Boy Nightmare. (2020, M) 2.30 Baywatch. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Baywatch. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: The Wedding Singer. (1998, M) 10.30 Seinfeld. 11.30 Jane The Virgin. 12.15am Love Island UK: All Stars. 1.20 Legacies. 2.10 Jeopardy! UK. 3.00 4VSÙOH "VTU 3.30 Late Programs.
6am Shopping. 8.00 Days Of Our Lives. 8.45 The Young And The Restless. 9.30 Living Room. 10.30 Building The Dream. 11.30 Bold. Noon Days Of Our Lives. 12.45 The Young And The Restless. 1.30 Bondi Rescue. 2.00 The Traitors Australia. 3.30 Bull. 4.30 JAG. 6.30 Bull. 7.30 NCIS. (Mv, R) 10.20 Bull. 11.15 JAG. 1.15am Shopping.
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Thursday, September 3 ABC TV (2)
SBS (3)
SEVEN (6, 7)
NINE (8, 9)
TEN (5, 10)
6am Morning Programs. 10.30 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 11.00 Small Town Scandal. (Mal, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Falling. (Ml, R) 2.00 Back Roads. (n, R) 2.25 Home Delivery. (R) 3.00 Fake Or Fortune? (R) 4.00 Frankie Drake. (PGv, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (a, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)
6am Morning Programs. 9.00 DD India News Hour. 10.15 Vintage Voltage. (Ml, R) 11.05 Inside Oxford Street. (PGa, R) 12.00 WorldWatch. 2.00 Shaun Micallef’s Origin Odyssey. (PGa, R) 3.05 The Cook Up. (R) 3.35 Jeopardy! 4.00 Letters And Numbers. (R) 4.30 Plating Locally. (PG, R) 5.00 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. H’lights.
6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Time Is Money. (R) 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. (R) 3.00 The Chase. (R) 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 The Block. (PGl, R) 1.00 Taronga: Who’s Who In The Zoo. (PGm, 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.
6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Everyday Gourmet. (R) 8.00 Lingo. (R) 9.00 The Finish Line. (R) 10.00 Ent. Tonight. (R) 10.30 The Traitors Australia. (PGl, R) 12.00 Everyday Gourmet. 12.30 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) 1.00 News. 2.00 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 2.30 The Finish Line. (R) 3.30 Lingo. (R) 4.30 Bold. (PG) 5.00 News.
6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) 7.00 ABC News. 7.30 7.30. 8.00 Back Roads. (PG) 8.30 Take 5 With Zan Rowe: Darren Hayes. (PG) 9.00 Amanda & Alan’s Italian Job. (PG) 9.30 The Cage. (Md, R) 10.20 ABC Late News. 10.35 The Business. (R) 10.50 Frankie Drake Mysteries. (PGv, R) 11.35 Long Lost Family: What Happened Next. (R) 12.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 2.40 Gardening Australia. (R) 3.40 Love Your Garden. (R) 4.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)
6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R) 6.30 SBS World News. 7.30 9/11: One Day In America: First Response. (Mal, R) 9.45 Say Nothing. (MA15+al) 10.35 SBS World News Late. 11.05 Reyka. (Malsv) 12.05 Saving The F*cking Planet. (Mals) 2.25 Close Encounters With Levison Wood: Walking With Orangutans. (Mal, R) 3.20 Who Do You Think You Are? Richard Osman. (PGa, R) 4.25 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.
6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Football. AFL Finals Series. 10.30 AFL Post-Game Show. Post-game discussion and interviews. 11.00 Kick Ons. Kane Cornes, Josh Jenkins and Jason Richardson debate the hottest topics and preview the upcoming AFL matches. 11.30 Hear The Mighty Roar: Brisbane Lions: If It Bleeds. (Ml) A victory lifts the Brisbane Lions’ spirits. 12.45 Mr Robot. (MA15+adlsv, R) Angela makes a deal with the devil. &MMJPU SFNFNCFST IJT ÙSTU NFFUJOH XJUI 4IBZMB BOE UIF ÙTI TIF HBWF IJN 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 NBC Today. 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.
6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 RBT. (PGl, R) 8.30 Emergency. (Md, R) Fiona has to stop a young man’s heart. 9.30 A+E After Dark. (Mm, R) A man who fell backwards develops a nasty haematoma that is bleeding rapidly. 10.30 Chicago Med. (MA15+a) 11.20 9News Late. 11.50 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 12.40 Pointless. (PG, R) 1.30 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 2.30 Global Shop. (R) 3.00 TV Shop: Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Skippy The Bush Kangaroo. (R) 4.30 A Current Affair. (R) 5.00 Today Early News. 5.30 Today.
6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG, R) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) A bull arab is Hayley’s dream dog. 8.30 NCIS: Sydney. (Mav) When a US sailor accused of murder is shot dead, the team discovers he was the subject of a true-crime podcast. 9.30 10’s Late News. Comprehensive coverage of local, national and international news, as well as the latest sport and weather. 10.30 Two And A Half Men. (PGs, R) Charlie’s former girlfriend is getting married. 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)
ABC FAMILY (22)
SBS2 (31)
7TWO (62, 72)
9GEM (81, 92)
10 COMEDY (52, 11)
6am Children’s Programs. 3.25pm Wiggle. 4.05 Andy’s Aquatic Adventures. 4.20 Santiago Of The Seas. 5.30 Talking Tom Heroes. 6.05 Spidey And His Amazing Friends. 6.25 Paddington. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Young Sheldon. 8.25 Young Sheldon. 8.45 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.30 Teenage Boss: Next Level. 10.00 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. Noon DW The Day. 12.30 Malcolm X: Justice By Any Means. 1.35 We’re All Gonna Die (Even Jay Baruchel) 2.20 Insight. 3.25 WorldWatch. 5.25 Alone Denmark. 6.35 Jeopardy! 7.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.25 The Center Seat: 60 Years Of Star Trek. (Premiere) 9.20 Cycling. UCI World Tour. La Vuelta. 1.50am Shoresy. 2.15 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 One Road: Great Australian Road Trips. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Better Homes. 5.00 Escape To The Country. 6.00 Bargain Hunt. 7.00 Home And Away. 7.30 Father Brown. 8.30 Shetland. 11.10 Genius: Einstein. 12.10am Father Brown. 1.10 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 3pm Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 Antiques Downunder. 4.00 Find My Country House NZ. 4.30 Poirot. 5.30 The Travelling Auctioneers. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 Rugby League. NRL. Canterbury Bulldogs v Broncos. 9.55 NRL Thursday Night Footy Post-Match. 10.40 The Brokenwood Mysteries. 12.40am Customs. 1.00 Tennis. US Open.
6am Morning Programs. 11.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. 11.30 Lingo. 12.30pm Becker. 1.00 Friends. 3.00 Frasier. 4.00 Everyday Gourmet. 4.30 Becker. 5.00 Frasier. 6.00 Friends. 8.00 Two And A Half Men. 9.30 Becker. 10.00 Cheap Seats. 11.00 Frasier. Midnight Ridiculousness. 12.30 Ent. Tonight. 1.00 Shopping. 2.30 Bold. 3.30 Shopping. 5.30 Late Programs.
NITV (34)
SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)
7MATE (64, 73)
9GO! (82, 93)
10 DRAMA (53, 12)
6am Morning Programs. 2pm Kriol Kitchen. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 4.30 Dreaming Big. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.30 Te Ao With Moana. 6.00 Bamay. 6.40 Africa’s Underwater Wonders. 7.30 Going Places. 8.30 The End Of The Valley. 9.00 MOVIE: Rumble In The Bronx. (1995, M) 10.40 John Ware Reclaimed. Midnight Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 10.20 Some Kind Of Beautiful. (2014, Madls) 12.15pm White Squall. (1996, Malsv) 2.35 The 39 Steps. (1935, PGav) 4.15 One Life. (2023, PGalv) 6.15 Five Flights Up. (2014, PGal) 7.55 Moving On. (2022, Malv) 9.30 Dark Waters. (2019, Mal) 11.55 Tigerland. (2000, MA15+s) 1.50am Kneecap. (2024) 3.45 Above The Dust. (2024, Mas, Mandarin)
6am Morning Programs. 1pm Ice Road Truckers. 2.00 The Force: BTL. 3.00 Talking W. 3.30 Deadliest Roads. 4.30 American Resto. 5.00 Storage Wars. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 American Pickers. 8.30 Air Crash Inv. 9.30 Ron Iddles: The Good Cop. 10.30 MOVIE: Resident Evil: The Final Chapter. (2016, MA15+) 12.40am Pawn Stars. 2.00 Late Programs.
6am Morning Programs. 11.40 Jeopardy! UK. 12.50pm Cards And Collectables Australia. 1.20 Motor Racing. IndyCar Series. Grand Prix of Milwaukee. 2.30 Baywatch. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.30 Bewitched. 6.30 Baywatch. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: The Heat. (2013, MA15+) 10.55 Seinfeld. 11.55 Rugby Heaven. 12.55am Late Programs.
6am Shopping. 8.00 Days Of Our Lives. 8.45 The Young And The Restless. 9.30 Living Room. 10.30 Building The Dream. 11.30 Bold. Noon Days Of Our Lives. 12.45 The Young And The Restless. 1.30 JAG. 3.30 Bull. 4.30 JAG. 6.30 Bull. 7.30 Law & Order: SVU. (Ma, R) 10.20 Bull. (PGa, R) 11.15 JAG. 1.15am Shopping.
16 GEELONG INDEPENDENT Friday, 28 August, 2026
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COMMENT
By Cr Stretch Kontelj International relations might not be something that comes to mind when people think aboutlocal government. Yet some of the most valuable work we can do for our community happens by building connections beyond Greater Geelong. Strong international partnerships help us attract investment, support local industry and position our region to compete on the global stage. That spirit was on display recently when the City signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Japan Australia Co-Creation Foundation, an important step in strengthening ties between Geelong and one of our most significant international partners. While memorandums and agreements can sometimes sound like little more than paperwork, this partnership is about something much more practical: establishing a Geelong Japan Australia Co-Creation Centre. Th is centre will build new pathways for collaboration in advanced manufacturing, clean energy and technology, helping position Geelong as a leading regional hub for innovation and investment. Japan has long been an economic partner for Australia and a leader in these sectors, making it a natural partner for a region with Geelong’s strengths and ambitions. Just as importantly, it helps put Geelong on the map internationally.
City of Greater Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj. (Supplied)
Increasingly, Geelong is being recognised as a destination for innovation, advanced industry, education and investment. In many ways, Geelong is a ’unicorn’ city. Few regional centres can match our combination of assets: a major international port, Avalon Airport, one of Australia’s two remaining oil refi neries and leading research institutions. Together, these advantages give us the tools to create our own economic destiny. Our partnership with the Japan Australia Co-Creation Foundation is part of a much broader vision taking shape through the City’s Global Hub at Wurriki Nyal.
Opened earlier this year, the hub provides a dedicated space for international engagement, collaboration and connection, bringing together business, industry, government and diplomatic leaders to explore opportunities for Greater Geelong. Already, the City has welcomed delegations from Japan, Korea, the United States and China, while also hosting major initiatives such as the Geelong-India Collaborative Futures Forum. Th is work is guided by the City’s International Engagement Strategy, which aims to position Greater Geelong on the world stage while supporting local jobs, investment and economic growth. Th rough that strategy, we are strengthening ties with priority markets including India, Japan, Korea and the United States through a range of MoUs, industry partnerships and collaborative initiatives that connect our businesses and institutions with global opportunities. The best part is that much of this work comes at little to no cost to ratepayers. By leveraging partnerships, industry collaboration and existing networks, we can promote Greater Geelong globally while delivering tangible economic benefits for our community. More investment means more business activity. More business activity means more jobs. And more jobs help support the vibrant, prosperous and growing region we all want to see. In a world that is increasingly connected, cities that build strong international relationships are the cities best positioned to succeed.
GEELONGINDY.COM.AU
FROM THE ARCHIVES
NEWS
The Geelong Independent looks back through the pages of our archives
15 years ago
10 years ago
5 years ago
1 year ago
26 August, 2011
26 August, 2016
27 August, 2021
29 August, 2025
Council wants to encourage shoptop living in central Geelong with a waiver on a requirement for developers to provide car parks. But the waiver could delay development of a multi-storey car park in the city, according to a council report.
More officers for Police Minister Lisa Neville’s Bellarine electorate might be to blame for reduced opening hours at Waurn Ponds station, a Liberal MP has claimed. Andrew Katos said he had “joined the dots” between the cuts at Waurn Ponds Police Station and the government increasing staffing for Bellarine stations.
As one of a very small minority who cannot receive a COVID-19 vaccine, due to a severely-weakened immune system, Justine Martin has urged Geelong locals to get the jab. “I won’t survive if I get COVID-19,” the Marshall grandmother said.
Geelong council has presented its draft version of a master plan for the revitalisation and long-term development of the waterfront for exhibition to the public. Replacing the Central Geelong Waterfront Masterplan 2011, the Geelong Waterfront Master Plan seeks to guide investment and decision-making to realise a vibrant vision of the area based on sustainability, placemaking and opportunities for cultural, business and recreational experiences.
Friday, 28 August, 2026 GEELONG INDEPENDENT 17
COMMUNITY
GEELONGINDY.COM.AU
COMMUNITY CALENDAR WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Geelong Independent Community Calendar, 1/47 Pakington Street, Geelong West, 3218, or email to editorial@geelongindependent.com.au. Deadline for copy and announcements is 5pm Tuesday. Due to the ever increasing entries coming in each week for our Community Calendar page, we have enough to fill almost three pages. This means your entry will not appear each week. We will do our best to rotate them fairly. If you have an existing entry that no longer operates, please let us know so we can remove it. Your patience and understanding is welcome for this FREE service. The calendar in its entirety with every entry is posted every Saturday at 9am at geelongindy.com.au
Athletics
adults welcome. Isaac, isaacsmith5603@gmail.com, 0406 199 457
Athletics Chilwell season launch, Landy Field, Sunday 30 August, 1.30-3.30pm. Ages 6 to 60-plus, meet the coaches, uniform try-ons. athletics.chilwell@gmail.com
Geelong Day VIEW First Monday monthly from 11am at Shell Club, 76 Purnell Road, Corio. geelongdayview@gmail.com
Ballroom dance Leopold Hall, 805-809 Bellarine Highway, Saturday 29 August, 7.30-10.30pm, $10 includes supper. Music: Kevin. 0400 500 402
Ocean Grove Senior Citizens
Rostrum Builds confident public speakers, each Monday evening. Andrew, 0408 369 446, Jan, 0407 296 958
Table tennis Geelong Scout Heritage Centre Scouting memorabilia, open third Sunday of the month (not September or January), 56 Russell Street, Newtown, 10am-3pm, entry by donation. Groups by appointment. 0419 591 432, geelong.heritage@scoutsvictoria.com.au
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, 0408 599 962
Geelong Harmony Chorus Women’s four-part harmony singing. All ages encouraged. Rehearsals Mondays 6.45pm at Herne Hill. contact@geelongharmony.com.au, 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, welshladieschoir.com.au
Hot Shots Western Heights Uniting Tennis Club coaching for ages 5 to 12. Equipment provided. Three sessions from 4-5.30pm at WHUTC and at Bell Post Hill tennis courts. Evie, 0409 433 772, evieryan296@gmail.com
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)
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 Kevin and Tre.
All seniors welcome for a social game. Vines Road Community Centre, Hamlyn Heights, Wednesdays 12.30-2.30pm. Allen, 0433 883 116 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, 10am, Belmont Bowls Club, 36 Reynolds Road, Belmont. New members and visitors welcome. Sue, 0409 945 011, probusclubofbelmont@outlook.com
Barwon Valley Belmont Probus First Thursday of month, 10.30am, Waurn Ponds Hotel. Membership officer, 0407 333 263, bobstafford@ozemail.com.au
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. grow.org.au, 1800 558 268 Indoor bowls Monday 1-3 pm; 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
Join Adfas Geelong Inc. for illustrated lectures by art historian Matthew Martin, formerly curator of the National Gallery of Victoria.
Leopold VIEW
Sports
Writers’ group
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
The Hub writers’ group meets at Arts Hub, Clifford Pde, Barwon Heads, first Sunday of the month, 2-4pm. New members welcome. dorothy.johnston@hugonet.com.au
Second Tuesday of each month, Leopold Sportsmans Club, 10.30am. leopold.viewclub@gmail com
Third Monday of the month, 6pm, Waurn Ponds Hotel. 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 Entry by donation. Open to the public. Discover the area’s past. Open Sundays, 10.30am-12.30pm, closed August. Courthouse Museum, 11 High Street, Drysdale. bellarinehistory.org
Arts National-Geelong One hour arts lectures and presentation, Newcomb Hall, Wednesdays monthly, 10.15am. Sharron, 0439 328199, geelong@adfas.org.au
Geelong Vietnam Veterans Coffee and chat, 31 Mt Pleasant Road, Belmont, Monday, Wednesday & Friday 10am-3pm. Fortnightly lunch at various locations. Meetings second Monday of each month. Gary, 0400 862 727
18 GEELONG INDEPENDENT Friday, 28 August, 2026
Meets second Tuesday of the month at 6.30pm in Leopold. Very friendly group, new members welcome. Shirley, 0488 055 969 Aberdeen Street Baptist Church, each Sunday 10am to worship, sing and enjoy traditional hymns followed by morning tea. All welcome.
Hamlyn Heights Combined Probus Meets second Thursday of the month, 10am, 200 McCurdy Road, Fyansford. Noel, 0425 706 339
Esoteric coffee meetups For mature 18+ interested in the supernatural/occult paranormal experiences tarot cards, Anton La Vey, NDE, for fortnightly/coffee and chat catch-ups in northern Geelong/Geelong area. Bookings limited. Text name/details, 0400 542 522
Geelong Central Probus Third Friday of the month, 9.45am, Grovedale Hotel. geelcentprob@gmail.com
Geelong Evening VIEW
Live music
Bellarine Historical Society
Leopold Book Club
Church Grovedale Seniors
Lectures
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
101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove Weekly Tuesday: 1pm snooker, chess, indoor bowls Wednesday: bingo 1.15pm, ukulele class 1.30pm, Chord Club jam session 4pm Thursday: social afternoon, cards 500 1pm Friday: art classes 9am, social art group 1pm. Fortnightly 1st & 3rd Monday: CWA, 2pm Paschal, 0426 889 456 Wednesday: Book club, 10.30am Paul, 0425 110 792 5255 2996, groveseniors101@gmail.com
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
Combined Probus Belmont Central The Combined Probus Club of Belmont Central meets 10.30am on the second Wednesday of each month at Waurn Ponds Hotel. Visitors welcome. Publicity officer, 0417 555 547
Grovedale Marshall Probus Second Thursday of the month,10am, The Grovedale Hub, 45 Heyers Road, Grovedale. Anne, 0425 356 973
Chess Group Chess lessons at Geelong West. Suitable for beginners who have a reasonably firm understanding of the game rules. Kids and
Newcomb Probus Third Wednesday of each month, 10am, East Geelong Uniting Church, corner Boundary & Ormond Roads. Gary, 0407 320 735
Music for preschoolers Mainly Music is a music and movement program for babies to preschoolers at St Albans-St Andrews Uniting Church, 276 Wilsons Road, Whittington, Tuesdays 10am during school terms. Rhonda, 0437 241 345
Leopold Library Tuesdays 2pm: Digital drop in for basic tech needs. Free school holiday programs. All ages, all interests. 4201 0675, grlc.vic.gov.au
History talk Last Sunday of each month, 1.30-3pm, National Wool Museum. Gold coin donation. Topics usually relating to Greater Geelong. Facebook: Geelong Museum Association
Chatty Cafe Indulge in cake, coffee/tea and chat, South Barwon Community Centre, 33 Mt Pleasant Road, Belmont. Open 2nd and 4th Monday each month, 10-11am, $5 donation. 5243 8388
GEELONGINDY.COM.AU
NEWS
Refinery has long way to go By Kaaren Morrissey, AAP Corio’s Viva Energy refi nery is still not back to 100 per cent capacity following a huge fi re, as the owner looks to replace vital infrastructure after delivering its best-ever interim earnings. Viva Energy, which owns the oil refi nery in Geelong, alongside a 1300-strong network of petrol stations across the country, reported a bottom line fi rst-half net profit jump of 331.3 per to $452 million. The result was driven by runaway fuel sales at higher margins on the back of supply constraints caused by the Middle
East crisis, which has closed the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global shipping lane. Net profit on a replacement cost basis which excludes the impact of oil prices on inventories - soared by almost 500 per cent to $371.1 million in the six months ended June 30. Th is was its highest underlying fi rst-half result, with all three business units reporting significant growth as total fuel sales hit 8490 megalitres. Viva Energy chief executive Scott Wyatt said the company - which operates one of two onshore refi neries, with the other owned by Ampol - has identified
opportunities in the federal government’s recently announced fuel security measures. “Right now, we are heavily engaged with the government on policy development to provide long-term investment for the refi ning sector, which we expect to provide more certain returns than the current fuel security services payment,” he told an earnings briefi ng on Tuesday. The Labor government wants to set up a one-billion-litre strategic fuel reserve, increase industry storage rules to ensure at least 50 days of supply and support the two refi neries, one of which is in Brisbane.
In April, a major fi re broke out at Viva’s facility in the Geelong suburb of Corio, affecting its alkylation processing unit, which turns low-value gases into a high-value, high-octane, clean-burning liquid called alkylate for premium petrol. The broader facility is back to 90 per cent capacity, but full production remains a way off until the unit is replaced. “We are assessing technology solutions and will work with our insurers to determine the best way forward over the coming months,” Mr Wyatt said. “It’s a bit of a work in progress.”
Change the picture, change the story: image hub coming Organisations across the region will soon have access to a library full of images of and by a diverse range of people. The Respect 2040 Image Library, launching in early September, will feature images of local people from a diverse range of backgrounds, including Aboriginal people, LGBTQIA+ people, people from different cultural backgrounds and people with different abilities and appearances. Taken by local women and gender diverse photographers, the images seek to challenge unhelpful stereotypes for portraying people as whole individuals rather than reducing them to a single characteristic or idea. The images will be available to local organisations to use in their own communications, giving them the chance to be active participants in challenging
those stereotypes. Jodie Hill, chief executive of Respect 2040 lead organisation Women’s Health and Wellbeing Barwon South West said the project was about more than creating beautiful photographs. “The images we see every day help shape the way we see people, their roles and what is possible for them,” she said. “Too often, those images reinforce stereotypes, sometimes without us even realising it. We were determined to change that picture. “Th is library celebrates the diversity of our region while showing people in ways that are respectful and authentic. Th is is a powerful collection of images that challenge assumptions based on gender, age, disability, culture or other characteristics.”
WHWBSW CEO Jodie Hill. (Supplied)
Formed by a partnership of community groups, not for profit organisations, local governments and health organisations, Respect 2040 is committed to the elimination of violence against women. The library itself was informed by
consultation with people from a broad range of backgrounds. “We heard very clearly that people want to see themselves and their communities reflected in the images around them,” Ms Hill said. “That means seeing people of different ages, genders, cultures, abilities and backgrounds living full, multidimensional lives, working, leading, caring, contributing, learning, connecting and enjoying life.” “These are images created in our region, with our communities, for organisations across Barwon South West to use. We hope they help change not only the picture, but the story we tell about who people are and what they can be.” Visit respect2040.com for more information.
ENTERTAINMENT WITH MATT HEWSON
Album to connect and heal Some people are drawn to the music industry for the ideas of money and fame, others out of a natural desire to perform under bright lights in front of a heaving crowd. Others still fall in love with perfecting their craft, honing their physical abilities so the act of music-making becomes purely about what meaning to communicate, not how to do so. For Lachie Chomley, frontman, songwriter and prime mover for Geelong folk-punk-rock outfit Seal Prince and the Roof Rats, it may be about some of those things. But ultimately, Chomley plays for the same reason as the folk artists of old: to share a message of connection and healing. “I think I’ve gravitated towards folk music because there’s this vulnerability in that
kind of stripped back storytelling quality that you hear in a lot of folk music,” he said. “The reason I started making music was for the message I was carrying and wanted to share. And for the raw, vulnerable storytelling – Archie Roach, Paul Kelly, Neil Murray vibes.” Growing up surrounded by music, Chomley didn’t think of himself as a musician until “recent years”. “I was in musical theatre productions and stuff at school and singing was always something that was part of my life…it’s kind of in my family history,” he said. “But it took until adulthood to reflect and think, what is my thing to do in this life, my gift to share with my community?” On Sunday 6 September Seal Prince and the Roof Rats will officially launch
their self-titled album at the Geelong Folk Festival, the first time the event has been run in 30 years. Awash with horns, fiddle and percussion instruments of all sorts, the album’s 13 tracks explore the challenges of modern life in all their banal glory while also offering a message of hope, unity and the potential for change. Chomley said he was excited to launch an album that had been years in the making. “We’ve played one gig at the Geelong Folk Club so I know they’re going to be a good audience, a very appreciative and respectful crowd,” he said. “It’s going to be a really nice way to celebrate the album and all the awesome work that’s gone into it.” Visit geelongfolkclub.au/gff26 for more information.
Seal Prince and the Roof Rats launch their new album at the Geelong Folk Festival this September. (Supplied)
Actors baring it all for cancer awareness
Sophie Collins and her Calendar Girls co-stars are raising money for the Andrew Love Cancer Centre. (Supplied)
Geelong Repertory Theatre Company brings much-loved comedy-drama Calendar Girls to life at the Woodbin Theatre for 12 shows running from Friday 4 September to Wednesday 16 September. Based on a true story, Calendar Girls tells the story of a group of Yorkshire women who, after one of their number loses their husband to cancer, come up with an unconventional idea to raise money for their local hospital’s cancer ward; a nude calendar featuring themselves. Directed by Debbie Fraser, Geelong Rep’s production stars Sophie Collins,
Kethly Hemsworth, Adelle Gregory, Amy Lowe, Annie Bieniek and Arwen Perry. The female cast and Fraser have also posed for their own fundraising calendar, which will be available for purchase in the foyer during the show’s run, with proceeds donated to the Andrew Love Cancer Centre. Fraser said while the cheeky premise of the show piqued audience interest, it was only a small part of a moving story of friendship, grief and courage. “(Writer) Tim Firth does a great job of writing the play; it’s not often a man can
get a woman’s perspective, but I think he’s done it so, so well with this one,” she said. “These women fi nd courage in each other and discover that sometimes the most unexpected ideas can make the biggest difference. I think audiences will laugh, shed a few tears and leave feeling uplifted. “But we’ve just realised that four of the shows have already sold out, so if people do want to come and see it they need to get in quick.” Visit geelongartscentre.org.au for tickets and more information.
Friday, 28 August, 2026 GEELONG INDEPENDENT 19
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9-LETTER WORD Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in 's'.
C
Today’s Aim: 18 words: Good 28 words: Very good 38 words: Excellent
3 8 2 4 1 5 6 9 7 7 9 4 3 6 2 5 8 1 1 5 6 7 9 8 4 2 3 6 2 8 1 3 9 7 5 4 5 4 1 6 8 7 2 3 9 9 3 7 5 2 4 8 1 6 8 7 3 2 4 1 9 6 5 4 6 9 8 5 3 1 7 2 2 1 5 9 7 6 3 4 8
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20 GEELONG INDEPENDENT Friday, 28 August, 2026
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WORDFIT 3 LETTERS ACT ADO AIL AND CHI EGO GYM HAD IRE ITS LAD NEE NET OLD ORE OUR PEP PRO SAP SEC SEE TEN TWO WHO
No. 304
I G L O O
ALTER AMPLE APING AROSE ARSON AURAL BOXER BROKE DEALT FAILS FAKES FATES ICIER IGLOO IRATE LACES LATHS LEAPT LOAFS LOSES LURES LYRIC
4 LETTERS COAT EDIT ERRS HISS MAPS NEST POSY POTS SEEP SNIP SNOB SOPS TOAD TOIL 5 LETTERS ALGAE ALIGN
METRE NEARS ONION OPTIC OTTER PALER PEEVE PENCE PLANE PLIES PROXY RISER SALTY SCOUR SHOVE SINEW SLEET SMASH SPEED STORE STREW TIARA
SENSORY SIESTAS STIRRED
TILDE TREAT URGED YARDS 6 LETTERS BLASTS HUGEST LABOUR STAPLE
8 LETTERS DENOUNCE DYNAMITE LITERALS RELEASES
7 LETTERS ABSTAIN ASTRIDE RECLINE
28-08-26
No. 411 Insert the missing letters to make 10 words – five reading across the grid and five reading down. NOTE: more than one solution may be possible
H U R T S U S U A L M A N I A A G E N T N E S T S
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acne, cairn, cancer, cane, chain, chance, chancery, chancre, chicane, CHICANERY, chin, china, chine, cinch, crane, cyan, cyanic, cynic, earn, enrich, henry, hernia, hyena, inch, nacre, nary, near, nice, nicer, niche, rain, rainy, ranch, rani, rein, yarn, yean, yearn
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Puzzles and pagination © Pagemasters | pagemasters.com
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No. 336
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QUICK QUIZ
1
In the Ice Age movies, what is the name of the woolly mammoth?
2
Which character did Maggie Smith play in the Harry Potter movie franchise?
3
The 2016 film Anthropoid, starring Cillian Murphy (pictured) concerns the assassination of which member of the German high command?
4
Which English king commissioned the 11thcentury record known as the Domesday Book?
5
What is the name of the gang’s van in Scooby-Doo?
6
What burrowing animal is also known as the sand puppy?
7
In which decade did Australia introduce decimal notes and coins?
8
In which city were the 2012 Summer Olympics held?
9
True or false: a slug’s blood is green?
10 The germ, endosperm and bran are parts of a what? ANSWERS: 1. Manny 2. Professor Minerva McGonagall 3. Reinhard Heydrich 4. William the Conqueror 5. The Mystery Machine 6. Naked mole-rat 7. 1960s 8. London 9. True 10. Cereal grain
20
22
5 2 6 9 4 9 2 8
21
4 3 2 1
Life simulation series developed by Maxis, The – (4) Southern Spanish region (9) Between heaven and hell (5) Black stone (8) Body of troops (7) Certain cuts of meat (5) Genuine (9) Strikebreaker (4) Philoshoper, René – (9) Exaggerated theatre (9) Line of descent (8) A hinged altarpiece (7) Spine (5) Pursue (4) Perpendicular (5) Smutty (4)
1
DECODER
20
7 5 4
19
medium
21 24 27 28 29 30
18
5 9 8 4 3 4 6 7 9 2 8 1 3 2 4 6 9 7 2 2 1 9 4
12 13 14 15 18 20
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DOWN
Acute viral disease, now largely eradicated (8) Region of Southern Italy (6) Internet connection device (5) One who believes in sharing evenly amongst the community (9) Nut (6) I don’t know (coll) (5,2) Removal (8) Free from an obligation (6) Bleachers (6) Government by the populace (8) In respect (of) (7) Obstruct (6) Ursine bed companion (5,4) Custom, practice (5) Stew (6) Organ or laptop component (8)
1
F A T E S P L A N E S A L T Y A L I G N R I S E R T I A R A I G L O O O T T E R A L T E R B O X E R S A P H A D L A D S E E P L Y R I C B L A S T S A N D A D O S E C A M P L E L E A P T T O I L R E L E A S E S T O A D P R O S I E S T A S S T I R R E D O R E S N I P D Y N A M I T E N E S T S T O R E L A C E S W H O T E N I T S L A B O U R S C O U R H I S S O U R G Y M L U R E S C H I A P I N G O N I O N A R O S E F A K E S P E N C E P E E V E S L E E T S P E E D S T R E W
ACROSS
No. 304
B E R W P K T O I
To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.
QUICK CROSSWORD
14
No. 304
S M A L L P O X A P U L I A I N I B S H O U S O C I A L I S T M O D E M A B I A L N H S A L M O N D B E A T S M E U I N N E X E M P T D I S P O S A L I N P E I E S T A N D S R E P U B L I C C I D O A P R O P O S I M P E D E R I T E G L R L T E D D Y B E A R U S A G E E G C K E M M W S E E T H E K E Y B O A R D
SUDOKU
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Friday, 28 August, 2026 GEELONG INDEPENDENT 21
MOTOR
Wrangler loves to rough it By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring Jeep Wrangler needs no introduction. If you’re into off-roading, it’s up there with the best of them. In fact, out of the box, Wrangler probably delivers more 4x4 capability than just about anything, with plenty of room for further customisation. But this ability comes at a cost, because it’s not the most comfortable car to drive and these days it is available only with a petrol engine which is a major drawback.
Styling In the UK the 4x4 scene is about mud and bog holes. In the United States, it’s more about water crossings and rocky hill climbs. In this great land of ours, it’s likely to be a mix of both, with the Outback regarded as the pinnacle of off-road adventure. It’s a market dominated by Toyota in its many shapes and forms as we discovered on a trip to the Top End not so long ago, behind the wheel of a Prado wagon. Jeeps and Land Rovers are a comparativelyy rare sight on the corrugations of the Gibb River Road which stretches more than 600km between Broome and Kununurraa in Western Australia. Conspicuously absent is the darling off the western suburbs, the Ford Ranger. o Where does the Jeep Wrangler fit into this scenario? It’s very much a lifestyle choice, with thee focus on play rather than work. d, It’s about going bush for the weekend, rt with the fam or your mates and maybe dirt bikes. When we started driving Jeeps, they had two doors and a cramped, emergency rear seat. Then the four-door Unlimited came along, opening up a whole new world. Since then, the market for 4x4 dual cab utes has exploded and they account for three of the top 10 selling vehicles in Australia. Jeep saw this coming and in June 2020 added the Gladiator (great name) to the mix, based on the four-door model, with a proper ladder chassis. Fast forward and we suspect Jeep is doing it tough, not off road but in the showrooms with sales well and truly down. You want a Wrangler, the lineup has been rationalised to just the one top-spec Rubicon grade, available in two- or four-door form with the occasional special edition thrown in to spice things up. There’s Wrangler Rubicon two-door ($81,990) and Wrangler Unlimited Rubicon four-door ($84,990), along with a four-door 85th Anniversary edition ($88,490). At the moment, there’s also a strictly limited edition four-door Rewind ($73,990) which at this price represents a good deal. On-road costs must be added to all of these prices. Premium paint adds $1490 to the cost and the Sky-One-Touch Power Top is a hefty $6450. With removable roof panels, the Wrangler is billed as a driving experience unlike anything else. It’s just getting these panels off and figuring out how to put them back on (and the time it takes) that is likely to deter the majority of people. Jeep’s website Visualiser encourages you to build your Jeep, with an accessory list that disappears over the horizon – but it could also be a big deterrent. It’s confusing, cumbersome and time consuming. Rubicon features 17-inch alloys with BF Goodrich off-road rubber, dual zone climate air with rear vents and heated leather seats along with a heated steering wheel. There’s also LED lighting front and back, LED daytime running lights, auto lights and wipers, auto dimming rear view mirror, plus front and rear parking sensors.
Jeep Wrangler is a car designed for roughing it, not an urban environment. (Pictures: Supplied)
Wrangler comes with a five year/100 000km five-year/100,000km warranty, lifetime roadside assistance if you service the vehicle through Jeep and needs to be serviced every 12 months/12,000km.
Infotainment Infotainment consists of a 12.3-inch touchscreen, 7.0-inch driver info panel and nine-Speaker Alpine audio, with built-in navigation, Bluetooth phone and audio, AM/ FM/DAB+ radio, and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The lower dash offers USB-C, USB-A and AUX ports, along with a 12-volt outlet. There’s another USB-A in the console box, plus two USB-A and USB-C ports in the back, together with a 240-volt outlet.
Safety Standard safety extends to four airbags (two front and two side), with Autonomous emergency braking (City and Interurban) and a blind spot monitor. There’s also Forward Collision Warning Plus, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop, Blind Spot Monitor and Rear Cross Path Detection. Lane Keep Assist (LKA) and Emergency Lane Keeping (ELK) systems are not available. Be aware, however, Wrangler is currently unrated for safety. The previous three-star rating expired in December last year.
Engines/transmissions The 2.0-litre turbo in question generates 200kW of power at 5250 rpm and 400Nm of torque from 3000-4500 rpm. Transmission is via a ZF eight-speed conventional auto with part-time high and low range four-wheel drive, plus auto engine-stop-start (to save fuel).
Driving What’s hurting Jeep more than anything is the demise of the diesel and in the case of Wrangler, its 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol replacement. It gets along all right but, like the old Pentastar V6, is something of a sinkhole for gas – and it likes the good stuff – 95 premium unleaded. With an 81-litre tank Jeep quotes combined average fuel consumption at 10.2L/100km. Over the course of a week, we clocked
22 GEELONG INDEPENDENT Friday, 28 August, 2026
up 940km in our test vehicle at a rate of 10.9L/100km. Of note it was the first time in a long time that we had to dip into the kitty to top up a vehicle which says something. To give this some perspective, in previous tests, a two-door Wrangler with the V6 returned 10.4L/100km and a Gladiator with the same engine 14.0L/100km. It’s simply not good enough. At 4882mm in length, Wrangler Unlimited is fairly compact, about 71cm shorter than Gladiator, with an 11.8-metre turning circle. Weighing in at 2154kg, aluminium is used to reduce weight and boost fuel consumption, including the doors, door hinges, hood, fender flares, windshield frame and tailgate. Hollow track and stabiliser bars, aluminium engine mounts and steering gear also help to reduce weight. It has a braked tow rating of 2495kg. Inside it’s a mix of new and old, with a traditional flat dash that contains a long 12.3-inch touchscreen in this iteration that’s better suited to the demands of CarPlay and Android Auto. The dash consists of old-style analogue instrument gauges that flank a 7.0-inch information panel, where speed can be displayed digitally. Getting in and out of the Wrangler takes some athleticism, due to its ride height and the small doors. The driver sits close to the wheel and the swap from left to right hand drive hasn’t been seamless, with a smaller driver’s side footwell that leaves little room for a proper footrest, making it uncomfortable to drive over long distances. With some negotiation you can slot your left foot to the side of the brake pedal and fold your right leg sideways under it, but after a while even that becomes cramped. There’s not much easily accessible cabin storage either. Sure, there’s the netted door pockets, but with so little room for expansion between the doors and seat sides, their capacity is severely limited. Placing our phone and wallet in the pocket, sitting one on top of each other, resulted in the power seat adjustment controls being suddenly activated as they were squeezed against them. LOL. Rear legroom is good and the boot is deep and reasonably sized, with a hidey-hole under the floor, a big Alpine subwoofer built into the side and a 12-volt socket for things like car fridges.
Although the tailgate and window glass open separately, the tailgate must be opened and closed first which kind of negates any practicality. Fitting a child seat is difficult because the headrests are not removable. Rubicon features a long list of 4x4 accessories, with a high/low range Rock-Trac Active On-Demand 4x4 system with a traditional, short stubby transfer lever. Highlights include heavy duty Dana axles, Tru-Lok front and rear electronic diff locks, electronic front sway-bar disconnect, 77.2:1 crawl ratio and Fox aluminium-bodied two-inch diameter shocks front and back. With an approach angle of 43.9 degrees, break over angle of 22.6 degrees, departure angle of 37.0 degrees and a ground clearance of 255mm, it has a wading depth of 760mm. An Off-Road+ Button automatically adjusts throttle, Selec-Speed Control, Traction Control, Transmission Shift Mode. It has two modes: 4HI for higher speed sand performance and 4LO for very low speed rock hopping manoeuvres Wrangler gets the ‘Trail Rated’ stamp of approval testifying to its 4x4 capabilities, but as we have shown previously – its meaning is somewhat dubious. It’s a feisty thing, fun to drive with a decent turn of speed, but we would have preferred a diesel. The steering is rubbery and it has a tendency to wander if left unchecked, but the ride is surprisingly compliant and unlikely to generate complaints. The chunky off-road rubber is just what you want for the rough stuff but sets up a helluva din at 110km/h on the motorway. Convex exterior mirrors make judging distance to objects difficult. You see one thing in the mirrors and another in the rear-view camera which is a trifle confusing.
Summing up The iconic styling is a big drawcard as is the Wrangler’s prodigious off-road ability. This is a car designed for roughing it. For getting scratched and dirty and going back for more the next week. What it’s not, is a car designed for the urban environment. It might look cool but the novelty will soon wear off and you’ll find yourself wanting something with a bit more comfort. Land Rover has shown you can do this with the new Defender and perhaps it’s time Jeep bit the bullet and introduced something safer and more comfortable?
SPORT
Around the grounds Around
the courts
Results, goal kickers and best players from Geelong, Geelong & District, and Bellarine Football League games played on 22 and 23 August.
Results and best players from Geelong, Bellarine, and Geelong & District Netball League matches played on 22 and 23 August.
GEELONG FOOTBALL LEAGUE South Barwon 1.2(8), 5.6(36), 7.11(53), 11.12(78) Newtown & Chilwell 5.0(30), 5.1(31), 7.5(47), 9.5(59) Goals: South Barwon - S. James, L. Elzinga 2, T. Mulraney, T. Peirce, T. Burke, A. Boseley, L. Noble, M. Caldow, J. Driver. Newtown & Chilwell - C. Fopiani 3, L. Nash 3, A. Wojcinski, M. Dodos, J. Colville. Best: South Barwon - F. Fort, L. Elzinga, T. Burke, J. Driver, T. White, B. Kellett. Newtown & Chilwell - C. Byrne, L. Nash, N. Harris, B. McGlade, T. McMillan, C. Field.
GEELONG NETBALL LEAGUE Bell Park 75 def St Albans 30 Best: Bell Park - Makaela Connelly, Maddison White, Charlotte Morey. St Albans - Ruby Wilson, Amy Cook, Marli Vardy. Colac 53 def St Joseph’s 49 Best: Colac - Ava Cuolahan, Emily Lang, Georgia Finn. St Joseph’s Kiahna Fallon, Ella Closter, Meg Threlfall. Newtown & Chilwell 68 def South Barwon 47 Best: Newtown & Chilwell - Julia Woolley, Vanessa Augustini, Olivia Powell. South Barwon - Ellen Doyle, Eloise Maddox, Maya Corrigan. St Mary’s 52 def Geelong West Giants 46 Best: St Mary’s - Hannah FitzGerald, Renee Garing, Ellie Kennedy. Geelong West Giants - Juliet Evans, Rachel Palmer-Brennan, Eloise Ritchie.
Bell Park 7.2(44), 9.6(60), 16.12(108), 22.15(147) St Albans 2.4(16), 3.12(30), 5.13(43), 7.14(56) Goals: Bell Park - J. Bermingham 6, N. Hollard 4, Z. Lamb 3, M. Mahady 2, I. Wareham, J. Sarcevic, S. Bensted, T. Pidgeon, R. McWaters, L. Stefanovski, M. Lavis. St Albans - T. Higgins 3, B. Hodgson 2, B. McDonald, D. Dwyer. Best: Bell Park - J. Bermingham, M. Mahady, J. Nihill, S. Bensted, Z. Lamb, O. Hicks. St Albans - B. McDonald, B. Hodgson, H. Dickson, B. Thomas, A. Evans, T. Higgins. St Joseph’s 3.7(25), 9.9(63), 15.17(107), 19.20(134) Colac 0.1(1), 2.2(14), 4.3(27), 7.9(51) Goals: St Joseph’s - J. Jovanovic 7, A. Hickey 3, P. De Grandi 3, M. McLachlan 2, G. Posterino, M. Chafer, G. Morrison, M. White. Colac - R. Monaghan 3, K. Smartt, W. Parkhouse, H. Darroch, S. Pressani. Best: St Joseph’s - H. Smith, L. Kershaw, A. Hickey, J. Jovanovic, E. McCoy, R. Aquilina. Colac - J. Skinner, J. Walters, J. Simpkin, A. Walters, T. Rieniets, A. Garner. Grovedale 6.8(44), 9.11(65), 17.16(118), 22.28(160) North Shore 4.1(25), 7.2(44), 7.2(44), 8.3(51) Goals: Grovedale - T. Gillett 5, R. Abbott 4, P. Roberts Potter 2, B. Spicer 2, J. McCarthy 2, J. Martyn, J. Caia, J. Greene, L. Ellis, J. Hasell, R. Quinn, J. DeGoldi. North Shore B. Shelley 3, J. Sammut-Miljevic 2, H. Purcell 2, L. Hayes. Best: Grovedale - B. Spicer, J. McCarthy, N. Deans, H. Whyte, B. Ferguson, J. DeGoldi. North Shore - L. Vivian, J. Purcell, D. Plozza, D. Bennett, B. Shelley, N. Creighton. St Mary’s 5.3(33), 7.8(50), 10.11(71), 15.18(108) Geelong West Giants 3.2(20), 7.3(45), 8.6(54), 8.7(55) Goals: St Mary’s - L. Peck 5, J. Willson 2, H. Benson 2, B. Cockerill, H. Bourke, J. Travaglini, H. McMahon, L. Bartolo, H. Segrave. Geelong West Giants - J. Kaltenbach 2, L. Wittman 2, C. Hall, M. Scoullar, B. Harvey, T. Handley. Best: St Mary’s - L. Peck, H. Bourke, H. Benson, J. Garner, H. Cook, N. Dowling. Geelong West Giants - A. Stelma, T. Lewis, M. Kelly, E. Rowe, D. Cole, B. Harvey. GEELONG & DISTRICT FOOTBALL LEAGUE Qualifying final East Geelong 4.3(27), 9.4(58), 14.6(90), 16.12(108) Werribee Centrals 4.4(28), 6.4(40), 8.4(52), 10.6(66) Goals: East Geelong - A. Steele 3, C. Ezard 2, S. Purdy 2, W. Hough 2, B. Mulvahil 2, P. Visetin, Z. Smith, B. Crombie. Werribee Centrals - B. Houlihan 3, C. Saliba 3, D. Chesterman, B. Carlton, A. Stone. Best: East Geelong - D. Martin, P. Visentin, G. Munari, B. Crombie, J. Doyle, B. Mulvahil.
A tight contest between Patrick Daley and Matthew Kasparian during the Werribee Centrals vs East Geelong qualifying final. (Ivan Kemp) 573298_21
Werribee Centrals - J. Stephenson, A. Stone, B. Carlton, T. Camilleri, L. Robinson, B. Taylor. Elimination final Belmont Lions 2.1(13), 8.1(49), 9.6(60), 12.8(80) North Geelong 4.2(26), 6.7(43), 10.10(70), 11.12(78) Goals: Belmont Lions - B. Michell 3, B. Evans 3, W. Maclean 2, N. Houtsma 2, C. Anderson, J. Evans. North Geelong - M. Habib 5, C. Vaughan 2, C. Smith, T. Schwennesen, C. Pasque. Best: Belmont Lions - M. Dyster, L. Slorach, B. Michell, N. Houtsma, C. Farchione, W. Maclean. North Geelong - J. Jewell, R. Desnoy, M. Habib, T. Schwennesen, B. Orr, C. Smith. BELLARINE FOOTBALL LEAGUE Modewarre 2.4(16), 5.8(38), 10.13(73), 16.14(110) Anglesea 8.3(51), 10.7(67), 11.12(78), 13.17(95) Goals: Modewarre - C. Joseph 5, S. Morter 5, O. Butler 2, C. Farrell, Z. May, D. Sharp, T. Scott. Anglesea - A. Gras 6, C. Hutchinson 2, W. Batson 2, H. Ling, M. Virgona, L. Smith. Best: Modewarre - D. Sharp, O. Hocking, M. Fenton, S. Morter, C. Joseph, C. Farrell. Anglesea - W. Batson, C. Hutchinson, J. Hogan, A. Gras, N. Collins, J. Keras. Barwon Heads 2.0(12), 7.8(50), 10.11(71), 14.16(100) Ocean Grove 1.3(9), 2.5(17), 4.7(31), 10.8(68) Goals: Barwon Heads - J. Henderson 5, M. Jensen 4, C. Ward 2, D. Graham, K. Polley, J. Whybrow. Ocean Grove - L. Waldron 4, K. Reilly 2, J. Paterson 2, B. Pohlner, H. Walsh.
Best: Barwon Heads - L. Davis, F. Cornell, J. Syddall, A. Ford, K. Polley, J. Callaway. Ocean Grove - L. Jarrad, H. Walsh, C. Belcher, J. Lange, B. Hayward, L. Joyce. Queenscliff 6.6(42), 7.9(51), 11.11(77), 14.14(98) Portarlington 0.1(1), 6.6(42), 10.11(71), 11.14(80) Goals: Queenscliff - M. Annandale 4, J. McHenry 2, N. Rippon 2, S. Bowtell, I. Grant, M. Waight, P. Bradley, J. Lindrea, K. Keenan. Best: Queenscliff - N. Rippon, K. Keenan, T. Thompson, M. Annandale, B. Jones, J. Lindrea. Portarlington - R. Hayden, S. Greenhough, B. Williamson, B. Poole, J. Jones, T. Miles. Geelong Amateur 4.4(28), 11.6(72), 21.7(133), 25.11(161) Surf Coast 4.2(26), 5.4(34), 8.8(56), 12.10(82) Goals: Geelong Amateur - S. Lloyd 14, J. Sheahan 2, B. Barnett 2, L. Reilly, J. Sharp. Surf Coast - L. Cartelli 6, T. Stephen 2, D. Coleman, A. Black, P. Smith. Best: Geelong Amateur - T. Zeitz, L. Reilly, T. Gribble, B. Barnett, H. Kershaw, J. Sheahan. Surf Coast - F. Jakobsson, R. Cotter, L. Cartelli, T. Flanigan, W. Martin, H. Gravener. Torquay 3.4(22), 6.9(45), 11.12(78), 12.16(88) Newcomb 3.4(22), 4.5(29), 5.6(36), 6.9(45) Goals: Torquay - T. Smith 3, B. Dyer 3, H. Trigg 2, M. Boag, J. Dawson, M. Hurley, D. Pascoe. Newcomb - P. McGinley, L. Justin, T. Webster, J. Duncan, J. Duke, D. Johnstone. Best: Torquay - W. Doyle, N. Mifsud, M. Boag, N. Turner, L. Anderson, T. Diamond. Newcomb - L. Wagener, F. Anscombe, M. Andrews, B. Clark, J. Taylor, L. Justin.
Bellarine Netball League Modewarre 51 def Anglesea 34 Best: Modewarre - Hannah Richards, Abby Larkin, Laney Mcfadyen. Anglesea - Tae McGillivray, Eliza Abbott, Scarlotte Benney. Ocean Grove 77 def Barwon Heads 37 Best: Ocean Grove - Zanna Woods, Bridgette Vos, Julia Mitchell. Barwon Heads - Amy Mahar, Issey Armstrong, Jordan Maher. Portarlington 48 def Queenscliff 47 Best: Portarlington - Laura Robinson, Tully Bethune, Isabella Marsh. Queenscliff - Keely Kinsey, Phoebe Knox, Kaitlin Gladman. Geelong Amateur 75 def Surf Coast 34 Best: Geelong Amateur - Kaitlyn Sheringham, Jessica Standfield, Georgia Duncan. Surf Coast Johannah Griffin, Rhiannon Williams, Abbey Sutherland. Torquay 70 def Newcomb 46 Best: Torquay - Ariana Luamanu, Bridget Witham, Sophie Ritchie-Crichton. Newcomb - Chloe Hoyle, Abbey Dingwall, Maddie McFarlane. GEELONG & DISTRICT NETBALL LEAGUE Qualifying final East Geelong 31 def Bannockburn 28 Best: East Geelong - Shannon Pietsch, Frances Willson, Stephanie Boyce. Bannockburn - Mikaela Minns, Hunter Tait, Alyce Willie. Elimination final Winchelsea 43 def Thomson 32 Best: Winchelsea Maddison McKiernan, Meg Royal, Grace Pullen. Thomson - Amelia Jarvis, Ebony Harris, Bek Lebish.
East Geelong’s Alicia Kelton accepts a pass during her side’s qualifying final win against Bannockburn. (Ivan Kemp) 573295_01
Friday, 28 August, 2026 GEELONG INDEPENDENT 23
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Tigers in good form By Justin Flynn Torquay couldn’t have been any more impressive heading into this weekend’s Bellarine Netball League finals, handing Newcomb a 24-goal loss. With four players scoring nine goals or more, the Tigers have plenty of options under the ring in their qualifying final against Ocean Grove. Ariana Luamanu scored nine goals in the first half at goal attack before moving to wing attack in the second half. With a 16-goal lead at the last break, Torquay had the luxury of sitting star goaler Daisy O’Kane for the entire final term as did Bridget Witham, who was one of the best on court at goal defence. The Tigers’ opponents this Saturday, Ocean Grove, were equally as impressive, thrashing a young Barwon Heads side by 40. The Seagulls didn’t lack for effort, but Grove was too composed and experienced with Zanna Punshon threading through 45 goals with only one missed attempt for the entire game. Geelong Amateur will sit back and watch after sewing up the minor premiership weeks ago. Ammos disposed of Sirf Coast by 39 goals and will go into the finals as raging flag favourites. Portarlington knocked off Queenscliff by one goal and the two sides will meet again in the elimination final. If the round 20 game is anything to go by, the sudden death final on Sunday will be a ripper. Laura Robinson at goal defence was Port’s best while Keely Kinsey enters the game in good form for the Coutas at wing defence. Bellarine Netball League Qualifying finals Saturday 29 August at Portarlington A Grade: Torquay vs Ocean Grove, 2.30pm B Grade: Geelong Amateur vs Modewarre, 1pm C Grade: Portarlington vs Barwon Heads, 11.50am D Grade: Queenscliff vs Barwon Heads, 10.40am E Grade: Torquay vs Queenscliff, 2pm 19 & Under: Torquay vs Portarlington, 10.40am 17 & Under Division 1: Torquay vs Portarlington, 9.35am 17 & Under Division 2: Drysdale vs Torquay, 1pm 15 & Under Division 1: Geelong Amateur vs Ocean Grove, 11.50am 15 & Under Division 2: Geelong Amateur vs Torquay, 8.30am 13 & Under Division 1: Portarlington vs Geelong Amateur, 9.35am 13 & Under Division 2: Geelong Ama-
Jack Yates took home his second Whitley Medal in as many years. (GDFNL Media/SJV Photography)
Two in a row for Panthers gun
Barwon Heads’ Polly Robertson prepares to pass to Amy Mahar. (Justin Flynn) 573632_06
teur vs Torquay, 8.30am Elimination finals Sunday 30 August at Portarlington A Grade: Portarlington vs Queenscliff, 2.30pm B Grade: Queenscliff vs Ocean Grove, 1pm C Grade: Torquay vs Newcomb, 11.50am D Grade: Drysdale vs Anglesea, 10.40am E Grade: Barwon Heads vs Ocean Grove, 2pm 19 & Under: Barwon Heads vs Geelong Amateur, 10.40am 17 & Under Division 1: Ocean Grove vs Queenscliff, 9.35am 17 & Under Division 2: Ocean Grove vs Queenscliff, 1pm 15 & Under Division 1: Portarlington vs Drysdale, 11.50am 15 & Under Division 2: Portarlington vs Drysdale, 8.30am 13 & Under Division 1: Drysdale vs Torquay, 9.35am 13 & Under Division 2: Portarlington vs Drysdale, 8.30am
Bridgette Vos scored 32 goals for Ocean Grove. (Justin Flynn) 573632_05
All power to Newcomb as club breaks a 19 year finals drought Newcomb will finally break a 19-year finals drought when it heads to Portarlington on Sunday for the Bellarine Football League elimination final. The Power were beaten by Torquay by 43 points in the final home and away round and slid from fourth to fifth, but it was still enough to send the club into the finals. Newcomb meets Barwon Heads in the elimination final and will start favourites having thrashed the Seagulls by 102 points only two games ago. The Heads got back onto the winner’s list with a 32-point win against Ocean Grove, but will need to play much better to progress. Queenscliff will sit and wait for the winner of Geelong Amateur and Torquay. Ammos will still be without suspend-
ed forward Mitch Day while Sam Lloyd is coming off a 14-goal haul that took his season’s tally to 101. The Tigers impressed again against Newcomb and have multiple avenues to goal along with a star-studded midfield. Queenscliff will appreciate the week off after leading Portarlington by 41 points at quarter time and by six at the last break before winning by 18. Anglesea needed to beat Modewarre to have any hope of sneaking into the five and with a 35-point lead at quarter time, looked good. The lead was 19 at the long break and then six at the last before a six-goal final term from Modda resulted in a 15-point victory and the end of the Seas’ hopes of consecutive premierships. Scott Morter and Connor Joseph each
24 GEELONG INDEPENDENT Friday, 28 August, 2026
bagged five goals for Modda while Ayden Gras kicked six for Anglesea to make it 64 for the season to finish runner-up behind Lloyd. BFL Qualifying finals -Saturday 29 August at Portarlington Seniors: Geelong Amateur vs Torquay, 2.10pm Reserves: Torquay vs Modewarre, noon Under 18 Division 2: Leopold vs North Shore, 9.45am Elimination finals -Sunday 30 August at Portarlington Seniors: Barwon Heads vs Newcomb, 2.10pm Reserves: Anglesea vs Barwon Heads, noon Under 18 Division 2: Drysdale vs Surf Coast, 9.45am
Bell Post Hill midfielder Jack Yates claimed his second successive Whitley Medal for best player in the Geelong & District Football League. Yates was also named captain of the Team of the Year. Yates polled 22 votes to win by two from Winchelsea gun Indi Parish with Werribee Centrals’ Michael Culliver on 18, although he was ineligible due to suspension. Hot favourite Jordan Camm (Thomson) finished equal fourth with 16 votes. Corio youngster Jay Blackney was named Rookie of the Year. Winchelsea’s Jackson Smith won the reserves Tansing Medal with 22 votes from Bell Post Hill’s Renn Lovitt, who polled 19 votes, with Werribee Centrals’ Regan Vesty (Werribee Centrals) on 16. The netball count and awards will be held next week. Whitley Medal leaderboard 22: Jack Yates (Bell Post Hill) 20: Indiana Parish (Winchelsea) 18: Michael Culliver (Werribee Centrals) 16: Finlay Parish (Winchelsea), Michael Murdoch (Belmont Lions), Jordan Camm (Thomson) 15: Connor Jervies (Bannockburn) 13: Henry Hawker (Bannockburn), Thomas Schwennesen (North Geelong), Brock Carter (Bell Post Hill), Cooper Vaughan (North Geelong), Jak Evans (Belmont Lions) Athletes Foot MVP: Joshua Mawson (Anakie) Rookie of the Year: Jay Blackney (Corio) Wayne Tyquin Medal: Cameron Primmer (Winchelsea) 81 goals 2026 GDFNL Team of the Year Backs: Braeden Eddy (Belmont Lions), Lachlan Slorach (Belmont Lions), Jacson Collins (Geelong West Giants) Half-backs: Adam Donohue (Inverleigh), Ben O’Brien (North Geelong), Finlay Parish (Winchelsea) Centres: Michael Culliver (Werribee Centrals), John McIntyre (East Geelong), Boston Riccardi (North Geelong) Half-forwards: Ben McPherson (Belmont Lions), Jordan Camm (Thomson), Caleb Ezard (East Geelong) Forwards: Cameron Primmer (Winchelsea), Mason Dickson (Inverleigh), Henry Hawker (Bannockburn) Followers: Brock Carter (Bell Post Hill), Jack Yates (Bell Post Hill, captain), Josh Mawson (Anakie) Interchange: Tate Camilleri (Werribee Centrals), Jed Hanneysee (Thomson), Indiana Parish (Winchelsea), Brad Gerrard (Anakie) Co-coaches: Ben Moloney (Winchelsea), Rhyce Prismall (Werribee Centrals)
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First week of winter finals By Chris Higgins The culmination of a season of endeavour came to a head for many tennis enthusiasts with the finals commencing for the majority of sections in the Tennis Geelong Winter Senior competition last Saturday. Elimination finals were contested in eight sections on Saturday 22 August from Anglesea to Ocean Grove and from Clifton Springs to Lara. In Section 1 Mens, third placed Grovedale, with two father/son duos (Stephen and David Muratori and Gavan and Kenny Burke) split the first two sets with fourth placed Ocean Grove White, but then won the last four to comfortably take out the match. In Section 1 Mixed, third placed Lara were against fourth placed Surfcoast. Surfcoast took the first two mixed sets 6-2, 7-5, then Lara hit back with a narrow 7-6 win in the ladies, but Surfcoast men were able forge ahead with a 6-3 win in the following set. With the match in the balance, Surfcoast won 4-2 after splitting the last two mixed sets. Third placed Lara took on Western Heights Uniting (fourth) in Section 2 Mixed and it was a family affair, with the Dandos (Rob and Charlie) for Lara and Drakes (Carmen and Max) and Omants (Brett and Dylan) for Western Heights. The first mixed sets were split 6-3 and 4-6, but Lara got the upper hand winning both the ladies and
Saturday Section 5 Open, Waurn Ponds Red: Tom Kemp, Oscar Bellears, Kaiden Marino, Jimmy Worrall.
mens sets 6-2 and 7-5. The second mixed sets were also split, resulting in a 4-33 to 2-23 win to Lara. In Section 1 Open, third placed Moolap hosted fourth placed Surfcoast. Ryan Costello got Surfcoast off to a positive start with a straight sets win over Connor Chivell. Lachy Edgar then combined with Chris Forsyth in a convincing doubles win over Sam Rogers and Sylvester Cafiso. Edgar followed with a win over Lochlan Hindle in the second singles, and with his teammates winning the second doubles in straight sets, it was a comfortable win to Moolap.
Kaiden Marino and Oscar Bellears in action for Waurn Ponds Red.
Ocean Grove (third) hosted Wandana Heights (fourth) in Section 2 Open. Flynn Stewart started well for Ocean Grove with a 6-1, 6-2 win over Richard Vecoli. Jenson Wong and Archie Shih then hit back for Wandana with a 10-7 super tiebreak win over Caide and Austin King after splitting the first two sets. Shih then won in straight sets against Austin to put Wandana ahead, however Grove duo Stewart and Mark Kruger won a close doubles to get them home by two sets. In Section 3 Open, third placed Highton Blue were against Barwon Heads (fourth). Barwon Heads’ Paddy Moulton opened up
with a close 7-5 6-4 win over Alex Horgan Dex Taylor and Rebekah Schoenmaekers continued that with a 6-2 6-2 win over Andre Ficca and Nathan Drouyn. Taylor assured the win for Barwon Heads with a comfortable win over Andre in the second doubles. The closest elimination final was in Section 4 Open with third placed Moolap taking on fourth placed Ocean Grove White. Darcy King got Moolap off to a good start with a hard fought win over Ross Gibson. Moolap’s Liam Thompson and Amy Lizmore then overcame Luke Cronwright and Harry Gibson in a close doubles encounter. Ocean Grove’s Luke Cronwright then triumphed over Amy Lizmore 10-7, leaving the outcome to be decided by the final doubles. Ocean Grove’s father and son combination of Ross and Harry Gibson managed to beat Darcy King and Amy Kuskunovic and the overall win. Third placed Waurn Ponds Red hosted fourth placed Highton Gold in Section 5 Open in a battle of the youngsters with the majority of players aged 18 or under. Highton’s Jack Sweeney got his team off to a great start with a win, however Waurn Pond’s Kaiden Marino and Oscar Bellears hit back. Tom Kemp then consolidated for Waurn Ponds and with Jimmy Worrall and Marino winning the final doubles in straight sets, it was victory for Waurn Ponds.
Ammos vs Tigers, here we go again in division 1 grand final Geelong Amateur and Grovedale meet again for the second year running in the Epworth Division 1 grand final this Sunday at Lara. Last year Ammos prevailed by 12 points and this season both sides have won 12 games and lost two. Division 2 will have new premier with Lara and Torquay to fight it out. Torquay has three teams in this year’s senior and junior grand finals. Meanwhile, Geelong Amateur midfielder Bella Hill became the first ever player to win a second Epworth Senior Female Division 1 Best & Fairest with a landslide victory in the AFL Barwon vote count on Monday 24 August. Hill polled 24 votes to win by 11 from three players who finished on 13 votes. GRAND FINALS Sunday 30 August at Lara Division 1: Geelong Amateur vs Grovedale, Bisinella Oval, 2.30pm Division 2: Lara vs Torquay, Bisinella Oval, 12.15pm Under 17 Division 1: St Mary’s vs Torquay, Bisinella Oval, 10am Under 17 Division 2: Ocean Grove vs St Mary’s, Lara No 3, 9am Under 14 Division 1: Torquay vs Barwon Heads, Lara No 3, 2.45pm Under 14 Division 2: South Barwon vs Bannockburn, Lara No 3, 1pm Under 14 Division 3: Peninsula Sharks vs Newtown & Chilwell, Lara No 3, 11.15am BEST & FAIREST Division 1 1st: Bella Hill (Geelong Amateur) 24 votes 2nd: Cheryl De Groot (Geelong Amateur); Emily Worpel (Grovedale); Rebecca Clottey (St Mary’s) 13 3rd: Bella Gilham (St Joseph’s) 12 Division 2 1st: Ailish Tyrell (St Albans/Thomson); Kara Stacey (Lara), Lahnee Firth (Anglesea) 18 2nd: Lila Richard (Torquay) 16 3rd: Charlotte Hardy (Modewarre); Victoria Paape-Silva (Lara) 15
Lara’s Kara Stacey and Olivia Mairos and Torquay’s Grace O’Kane and Lila Richards will meet each other in the Division 2 grand final. 573265_04
Geelong Amateur’s Melanie McNamara and Grovedale’s Emily Worpel are looking forward to the Epworth Division 1 grand final on Sunday. (Pictures: Ivan Kemp) 573265_06
Under 17 Division 1 1st: Remy Sliwa (Torquay) 21 2nd: Madeline Kennedy (Geelong Amateur) 16 3rd: Layne Harvey (Peninsula Sharks) 15 Under 17 Division 2 1st: Chloe Hrobarik (Torquay) 20 2nd: Lili Scott (Inverleigh/Bannockburn/ East Geelong) 16 3rd: Maya Umbrello (St Mary’s) 13 Under 14 Division 1 1st: Isla Briggs (Ocean Grove) 16 2nd: Charlotte Edwards (Ocean Grove); Harriet O’Dwyer (Torquay) 14 3rd: Milla Belcher (St Mary’s) 9
Under 14 Division 2 1st: Brydie McBean (South Barwon) 27 2nd: Jade Cross (Bannockburn) 23 3rd: Taylah Cations (Armstrong Creek Sharks) 19 Under 14 Division 3 1st: Layla Finnigan (Peninsula Sharks) 30 2nd: Isabelle Greig (Newtown & Chilwell) 20 3rd: Madison Carey (Peninsula Sharks) 17 DIVISION 1 TEAM OF THE YEAR Backs: Francesca Hocking (South Barwon), Olivia Leonard (Grovedale), Kate Martin (St Joseph’s) Half-backs: Emie Dowling Button (Portarlington), Elsa Mangan (Barwon Heads), Lauren French (Grovedale) Centre: Bella Hill (Geelong Amateur) Half-forwards: Bella Gilham (St Joseph’s), Emily Worpel (Grovedale), Brodie Mitchell (South Barwon) Forwards: Brydi Lewis (St Mary’s), Neave Dickson (Geelong West Giants), Sachi Degiacomi (Geelong Amateur) Followers: Ellie Koiker (Grovedale), Chloe Bryant (St Joseph’s), Emily Ramsay (Geelong Amateur)
Interchange: Danielle Rhodes (St Joseph’s), Cheryl De Groot (Geelong Amateur), Lucy Della Monica (St Mary’s), Rebecca Clottey (St Mary’s) Coach: Chris Hickey (St Joseph’s) PRELIMINARY FINALS Sunday 24 August Women’s Division 1 Grovedale 3.2(20), 6.4(40), 6.6(42), 6.6(42) St Joseph’s 1.0(6), 2.2(14), 2.3(15), 2.7(19) Goals: Grovedale - Olivia Wolter 3, Emily Worpel 2, Jorja Kirsopp-Cole. St Joseph’s Chloe Bryant, Bella Gilham. Best: Grovedale - Jorja Kirsopp-Cole, Brook Ward, Janessa FitzGerald, Olivia Leonard, Ellie Koiker, Olivia Kyatt. St Joseph’s - Chloe Bryant, Paris Stokes, Rorri Phibbs, Ava Allen, Danielle Rhodes, Hannah Scott. Division 2 Torquay 4.3(27), 8.4(52), 9.7(61), 12.14(86) St Joseph’s 0.0(0), 0.0(0), 0.0(0), 0.0(0), Goals: Torquay - Grace O’Kane 4, Camille King 3, Ruby Williams 2, Luella Aldridge, Sophie Mahar, Eliza Campbell. Best: Torquay - Ruby Williams, Emily Lawrie, Lila Richard, Grace OKane, Luella Aldridge, Lila Burns. St Joseph’s - not supplied.
Friday, 28 August, 2026 GEELONG INDEPENDENT 25
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Charlie Connors shows intent. East Geelong goaler Shannon Pietsch accepts a pass inside the circle.
Lila Morris desperately tries to keep the ball in play.
Sylvie Jarvis passes into the circle.
Alyce Willie takes the ball in the centre.
Mikaela Minns takes the ball out of defence for Bannockburn.
Bella Pearse fires off a pass for East Geelong. 573295
Jade Merry gets busy at wing defence.
Sharon Ford races forward.
Stephanie Boyce was strong in defence for the Eagles.
East sets up big 2nd-semi East Geelong defeated Bannockburn in the qualifying final on Saturday 22 August to go straight into the grand final qualifier against Inverleigh this Saturday. Independent photographer Ivan Kemp was at St Albans to take these photographs. Jenelle Baker looks down court.
26 GEELONG INDEPENDENT Friday, 28 August, 2026
Madeline Solly has eyes for the ball.
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Zac Smith stops Kristian Adorno in his tracks.
Tate Camilleri loses the ball in this tackle by Bailey Payne.
Ben Crombie is taken to ground by Jack Stephenson.
Jack Doyle snaps a goal.
Zac Smith marks under pressure.
Eagles fly into qualifier East Geelong defeated Werribee Centrals at St Albans Reserve on Saturday 22 August and earned the right to play
Winchelsea in next week’s second semi-final. Independent photographer Ivan Kemp was there and took these pictures.
Kristian Adorno is well tackled by Ben Mulvahil. Brandon Houlihan goals on the run.
Carmelo Saliba kicks down the wing. Matthew Kasparian handballs to open up play.
Austin Mulvahil is tackled.
Harris Monahan takes an intercept mark.
Werribee Centrals’ Aaron Stone goes to ground in this tackle by East Geelong’s Ben Mulvahil. 573298
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Eagles pass first big test By Justin Flynn Take a quick look at the Geelong & District Netball League fixture this weekend and it becomes obvious that Inverleigh and East Geelong are the competition powerhouses. Both clubs have all senior teams competing – and in the case of East Geelong, all junior sides as well – with Saturday’s second semi-final schedule a genuine battle of the raptors. The Hawks and Eagles play each other in A, B, D and E Grades with North Geelong taking on East in C Grade. Inverleigh will be fresh from a week off after claiming the A Grade minor premiership while East Geelong defeated Bannockburn by three goals in a tight qualifying final. While pleased with her team’s resolve to win a close final, East Geelong coach Justine Radford knows Inverleigh boasts star power all over the court. In their only meeting this season, the two sides couldn’t be separated at 32-32 in round 11. “They’re obviously a really strong team across the board,” Radford said. “Nicola McLennan has had a fantastic season in goals. She’s quite dominant there. “They’ve got Zoe Saunders, who transitioned across from Belmont last year so she’s got that finals experience. “Their defence end is strong. I really rate all of the Inverleigh players and I have a lot of respect for Lisa (Milne) as the coach and they’ve been up there for the last few years. I’m sure they’re very hungry.” Radford’s Eagles aren’t too shabby either. Their ability to adapt was on show in the qualifying final when goal attack Alicia Kelton suffered a hamstring injury towards the end of the opening quarter. Radford was reluctant to move Jenelle Baker from wing attack where she was playing so well, so she called upon youngster Frankie Willson. “Janelle is our third goaler, but she was having a good game at wing attack and I didn’t want to change that,” Radford said. “So I threw in Frankie Willson, who is still in our Under 19 side and made her debut in A Grade this year, and she played in goal for
East Geelong’s Frankie Willson leaps high to take a pass and received praise from coach Justine Radford for her game. (pictures Ivan Kemp) 573295_34
the remainder of that game and she did a really great job, too. “So the rotations through the girls, they can play across multiple positions in all thirds which is really handy to have.” Kelton’s injury is on the lower end of the scale and Radford said she was hopeful the veteran would be right to go this Saturday. “I think she’ll be fine,” she said. “She actually did it a couple of weeks ago and then took the last game of the home and away season off. “I think it’s just a little bit tight. She should be fine come next week, but if not, we’ve got those rotations and I guess we’ve got the double chance, too.” Radford said having all teams still in the hunt for a premiership was a good position
to be in for obvious reasons, but also for morale. “We’ve still got every team remaining in finals (and) those girls in the lower grades are still there at training,” she said. “It keeps it a little bit more consistent and a little bit more similar to what it normally is rather than it be a huge change for the girls comes finals time.” WINCHELSEA progressed to a first semi-final match-up against Bannockburn and ended Thomson’s season with a 43 to 32 elimination final result. With Maddison McKiernan strong in defence and Meg Royal patrolling the midcourt, the Blues were too good while Amelia Jarvis was once again superb at centre for Thomson.
East Geelong coach Justine Radford talks with her players at a break during her side’s qualifying final win against Bannockburn. 573295_09
East Geelong powers through with 11 sides in with chance By Justin Flynn East Geelong Football Netball Club is a “hub of activity” at the moment according to senior footy coach Ned Aulsebrook. The Eagles have both senior football and all senior and junior netball teams still in the Geelong & District League finals race, making it 11 out of 11 sides getting through to the second week. East Geelong’s 42-point qualifying final win against Werribee Centrals at St Albans Reserve on Saturday 22 August puts it into the second semi against Winchelsea with the winner going straight into the decider. “There’s obviously lots of teams involved (and) we’re hopefully going to hang around for another few weeks,” Aulsebrook said. “There were some really good results in the netball as well on the weekend. “Our reserves (football) actually lost before us, so they’ll play on Sunday, but it’s nice to be able to set up camp at St Albans for a few weeks in August, September. The club’s really excited about it.” The Centurions led by a point at the first change, but a five goal second term gave East Geelong an 18-point buffer at half-time. Another five in the third quarter and the Eagles were 38 up and effectively through to the second semi-final. “We knew it would be a bit of an arm wrestle,” Aulsebrook said. “They’re a good side and they have been
Austin Mulvahil kicks out of the centre for East Geelong during the qualifying final win against Werribee Centrals. (pictures Ivan Kemp) 573298_03
all year. The response was really pleasing, but even better was the way we didn’t let them back in the game, which was contrary to the week prior where we had that same sort of lead going into the last quarter and they nearly snatched it from us and probably should have snatched it from us. “That was really nice to see that improvement across the seven days and certainly something we addressed on the Tuesday night leading into the qualifying final about how we could do a few things differently with ball in hand in that last quarter if we did have a lead, not to sort of protect it, but to go after it a little bit, which was so pleasing.”
28 GEELONG INDEPENDENT Friday, 28 August, 2026
Youngster Darcy Martin played in his first senior final and was named best for East. “His attack on the footy Saturday was second to none and his finals-like intensity was something that was head and shoulders above everyone else,” Aulsebrook said. “He led from the front in that regard. The stats probably don’t show the impact that he had on the game, but it was certainly the best game I’ve seen him play.” The only bad news for East was a hamstring injury to captain John McIntyre, but Aulsebrook is far from ruling out the star midfielder for the season. “I think you’re looking at probably that 21 days, which is unfortunate because that’s grand final day,” he said. “But we’ll give him every chance and obviously he’s heart and soul of the team. “He’ll do all the right things between now and then and hopefully we stay alive long enough to have that selection quandary in a couple of weeks.” This Saturday’s second semi against minor premiers Winchelsea looms as a beauty. “We’ve split the points with Winch this year and they’re going in favourites as they should,” Aulsebrook said. “They’ve been exceptional all year and (Ben) Moloney’s got them absolutely firing. (They are) coming off a big win round 18 as well and a week off, they’ll be fresh. “But hopefully we can bring that same intensity that we brought on Saturday and
East Geelong coach Ned Aulsebrook walks to address his players at three-quarter time.
take it up to them.” BELMONT Lions won a thriller in the elimination final, sending last year’s premiers North Geelong out of the finals race. North Geelong led by 10 points at the last change, but goals from Ben Evans and Bradley Michell put the Lions in front at the six-minute mark of the final term. The Magpies regained the lead, but a Will Maclean major halfway through the quarter put Belmont back in front. From then, both sides were only able to score a behind each with the Lions winning by two points and booking a spot in the first semi-final against Werribee Centrals. Evans and Michell each booted three for Belmont while Mitch Habib was a constant danger with five majors for the Magpies.