5 Top Five Things to do on the Bellarine in August.
1
August is a great time to experience the Bellarine without the summer rush. Cooler days make for excellent walking conditions, local events fill the calendar, and the bay offers up some of its best fishing. Whether you’re visiting or staying local, there’s plenty to enjoy.
Walk the Bellarine Coastal Trail
Stretching 17km along the edge of Port Phillip Bay, the Bellarine Coastal Trail is one of the region’s most immersive winter walks. The track winds from Portarlington to St Leonards, shifting through saltmarsh, open foreshore, pockets of native vegetation and long, uninterrupted views across the bay. August brings a softer palette – muted skies, still water, and birdlife that thrives in the quieter season. Along the way, heritage markers and cultural sites tell stories of the area’s Indigenous history and ongoing connection to Country, adding depth to an already beautiful journey.
2
Cast a Line Across the Bellarine
The Bellarine is a favourite among anglers yearround, but winter fishing has its own rewards. Snapper, garfish, salmon, squid, whiting and flathead are all common catches in August, and the bay’s calmer days can make for ideal conditions. Boaties have plenty of launch points across the region, including ramps at Indented Head, Queenscliff, Clifton Springs and Barwon Heads, while land-based fishers can try popular spots such as the Point Lonsdale and St Leonards piers, or the Barwon Heads bridge. Whether you’re heading out on the water or keeping it simple from the shoreline, fishing is one of the easiest ways to enjoy the Bellarine’s winter pace, sea air and changing coastal views.
4
Settle In for Local Arts & Performance
Winter is a great season to enjoy cosy cultural outings, and this August the Bellarine Arts Centre welcomes Oliver! Jr., the Broadway Junior version of Lionel Bart’s classic musical based on Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist. The production brings the streets of Victorian England to life as young Oliver escapes the workhouse, finds his way to London and becomes caught between Fagin’s band of pickpockets, the menacing Bill Sikes, the compassionate Nancy and the hope of a true family connection with Mr Brownlow. With performances on 28 and 29 August, it’s a family-friendly theatre outing and a perfect indoor escape for a winter weekend. Head to tickets. geelongaustralia.com.au to book.
3
Take the Plunge for Daffodil Day
This August, Australians are being encouraged to take a cold plunge for Cancer Council’s Daffodil Day Dip, raising funds for life-saving cancer research and support services for people affected by cancer. With almost one in two Australians diagnosed with cancer by the age of 85, the campaign invites participants to dip into the ocean, a river, pool or even a bath – as long as it’s cold. You can take the plunge on Daffodil Day, 20 August, or choose any day in August that suits you, dipping once, twice, every weekend or daily. On the Bellarine, where bay and ocean waters are typically at their chilliest in August, there’s no shortage of bracing local options. Register for free at www.daffodilday.com.au.
5
BootScoot Your Way Through “Toe the Line”
Sweeter than cherry pie, Toe The Line is the original hot scootin’ shindig – and it returns to Flying Brick Cider House on August 27. What began as a one-off has become a Bellarine favourite, with a whole lotta boots ready to hit the floor for a night of thumping country anthems, line dancing and good-time community spirit. Designed for beginners through to full-time boot-scooters, the evening includes a 90-minute dance class, arrival bubbles or a pot of tap beer or cider, shared barn-style tables, and a hearty Texan barbecue feast. Expect guaranteed fun, bar-priced drinks, and line dances including Ziggy, Shirts and Skirts, Giddy Up Get Down and Down at the Honky Tonk. Visit flyingbrickciderco.com.au for more information.
Winter Wellness on the Bellarine
Slow Rituals for the Cooler Months
WARMTH, WATER & DEEP REST
Few things feel more nourishing in winter than heat and water. At Lon Retreat in Point Lonsdale, mineral bathing, steam rooms and spa treatments create a sense of complete retreat, with views across farmland, lighthouse and sea. Lon’s outdoor contrast therapy spaces adds a distinctly winter appeal: sauna warmth, cool plunges, open air and the grounding rhythm of slowing right down.
For an easy coastal reset, Hello Sauna in Point Lonsdale brings the timeless ritual of wood-fired sauna to the sea, inviting guests to alternate heat with a refreshing ocean dip. In 13th Beach, the Barwon Heads Resort Day Spa offers a wide range of rejuvenating massage and spa services, plus space to unwind after a beach walk, restaurant lunch, or quiet weekend escape.
MOVE GENTLY, BREATHE DEEPLY
Winter wellness needn’t be strenuous. Across the Peninsula, yoga, Pilates, meditation and sound healing offer gentle ways to keep moving while supporting rest and resilience. Studios such as Makai Yoga Collective, Zero Point Yoga, Samana Yoga, and Salt & Wood provide light-filled spaces for flow, yin, strength and stillness, helping winter bodies feel more mobile, grounded and awake. For those seeking a deeper reset, experiences such as breathwork, float therapy, infrared sauna, massage and energy healing can help soften the stress that often builds during the colder months. Even one unhurried hour can feel like a meaningful pause.
NATURE AS MEDICINE
Of course, some of the Bellarine’s best wellness experiences are free. Rug up for a walk along Point Lonsdale’s foreshore, take in the drama of The Rip, wander the Queenscliff to Point Lonsdale coastal path, or breathe in the salt air at Ocean Grove. Winter beaches have a restorative stillness of their own, offering space to think, move and reconnect with the natural world.
WELLNESS AT HOME
Wellness also begins at home. August is a lovely time to create small rituals: lighting the fire before dinner, soaking in a warm bath, making soup from local produce, reading by a sunny window or turning a spare corner into a quiet stretch-and-breathe space. In Bellarine homes, where coastal views, gardens and natural textures often take centre stage, comfort can become part of the architecture of everyday wellbeing.
Whether it’s a mineral soak, a bracing beach walk, a slow yoga class or a quiet evening indoors, winter on the Bellarine invites us to listen more closely to what we need. Before spring arrives with its familiar burst of energy, August offers a gentler gift: permission to pause, restore and feel at home in the season.
Get to know Maria Antoniadis.
Property Manager 0448 510 138 maria@bellarineproperty.com.au
Maria began her real estate journey in 2021, stepping confidently into property management with a passion for people and a drive to succeed. She thrives in the fast-paced nature of real estate, embracing both the challenges and rewards that come with the role.
How long have you been in the business of Real Estate and how did it come about?
I have been in Real Estate for approximately 5 years. After finishing my long term job in Admin/Accounts Payments, the Employment Agency had a position as Receptionist in Real Estate and it took off from there. I assisted the Property Managers and thought this is what I wanted to move into.
When you walk into a property for the first time, what do you notice that others might overlook?
The cleanliness of the property, mainly floors and windows.
When is the best time to sell your home? If you were selling, what month would you choose or have you chosen in the past?
Spring time would be the best time to sell my home as more people are out and about than during winter time. Living in St Leonards, its more of a holiday destination so lots of holiday tourists around.
Is there a local street, building, or style of home that you feel especially connected to—and what’s the story behind it?
Whilst most people like brand new homes, which can be quite stunning, I’m more drawn to the beach shacks and humble homes that have been renovated, but still have that beachtype feel.
I feel connected to this as my house was like this prior to my renovations into making it more comfortable to reside in. I still have that nostalgia when I see old properties.
What’s your favourite destination to dine out or grab a coffee?
My favourite destination to grab a coffee would be in my town of St Leonards, especially on a sunny day and walking alongside the beach.
Is there a moment or memory in this community that made you realise ‘this is home’?
I have lived in St Leonards for the past 23 years and moved down here from Melbourne. I’ve raised my kids here. I think from the moment I purchased my home, I felt this is home now.
What does a perfect “local day” look like for you, from morning to evening?
A perfect day would be that my day goes to plan as expected and no unexpected disasters with properties.
Everyone is happy - landlords, renters and myself included. Go home, attend to my normal duties responsibilities.
Wind down and go to bed, ready for the next day - and all again.
" I’m more drawn to the humble beach shacks that have been renovated but still hold onto that beach feel. "
If you weren’t in real estate, what do you think you’d be doing?
If I wasn't in Real Estate, I would more than likely be in Accounts Payable/ Payroll, which has been my background previously.
What is it about this local area that made you want to work here?
Bellarine Property have always had a good reputation. It just was great that I found a job that is close to home also which was a double bonus!
To Market, To Market.
Your one-stop guide to the markets being held across the Bellarine Peninsula this month.
Barwon Heads Community Market
Where Corner Ozone Rd and Hitchcock Ave, Barwon Heads
When August 1, 9am-1pm
Point Lonsdale Market
Where Point Lonsdale Primary School, 22 Bowen Road, Point Lonsdale
When August 9, 9am-2pm
Bellarine Farmers’ Market
Where Ocean Grove Park, 70 Presidents Ave, Ocean Grove
When August 15, 9am-1pm
Barwon Heads Makers Market
Where Jetty Road, Barwon Heads
When August 29, 9am-2pm
Ocean Grove Preloved Market
Where Trak Arcade, 18 Park Lane, Ocean Grove
When August 30, 10am-3pm
A statement in light, luxury and lifestyle, this Hamptons-
5 Bed | 4 Bath | 2 Car | 637sqm Levi Turner
28 Saratoga Avenue, Barwon Heads
Architect designed with giant walls of glass framing an ancient Moonah canopy, this newly-completed 4-bedroom residence balances laidback luxury living with resort-like entertaining.
$3,200,000-$3,500,000
Set on a remarkable 3,590sqm parcel enveloped by ancient Moonah woodland, this beautifully updated home delivers a rare sense of privacy, space and serenity.
1-2 Araluen Court, Barwon Heads
Privately positioned on a generous corner allotment moments from the river and Village Park, this beautifully renovated residence delivers resort-style outdoor living.
60
Stephens Parade, Barwon Heads
Once in a lifetime an opportunity presents to purchase vacant land in an unparalleled position, with extensive natural views & the sound of roaring surf.
Peta
Peta Walter
$1,790,000-$1,890,000
A rare dual-residence opportunity in the peaceful, familyfriendly river-end of Barwon Heads, this expansive 755m² property delivers flexibility, space and exceptional potential.
reimagined beach cottage, where relaxed coastal living unfolds on a peaceful no-through avenue moments from Village Park.
An exceptionally rare offering, these two adjoining allotments invite big-picture thinking with the option to purchase together or individually.
Levi Turner
Levi
This home is set in one of the most idyllic and family-friendly pockets in Barwon Heads. With the 54 acre Village Park at the end of the street. 13 Cottesloe Drive, Barwon Heads
$1,050,000-$1,150,000
5 Stone Pine Court, Connewarre
Let the picturesque golf course vistas and sounds of rolling ocean waves form the backdrop to your Bellarine Peninsula dream.
A statement in style showcasing uncompromising attention to detail, this just completed custom designed and crafted residence promises a lifestyle experience without parallel. 39 Samphire Drive, Connewarre
Presenting a rare collection of 13 lots, Faldo Court is nestled amid the scenic beauty of the Creek Course. Each block is a 1-13 Faldo Court, Connewarre
$1,100,000-$1,200,000
Levi Turner
Peta Walter
154A Bay Shore Avenue, Clifton
Poised above the tranquil waters of Corio Bay with point blank 180-degree coastal panoramas sweeping from the twinkling lights of Geelong to the Melbourne city skyline.
100 Oceania Drive, Curlewis
Streamlined contemporary design meets a calming coastal ambience in this 4-bedroom home, crafted to grow and adapt beautifully with the needs of modern family life.
$790,000-$860,000
coastal warmth, this four bedroom home unfolds across dual living zones and a sublime alfresco area.
38 Pierview Drive, Curlewis
A must-see for buyers dreaming of crafting their very own
$490,000-$520,000
$460,000-$480,000
Lee Martin
Eve Tran
Radiating timeless farmhouse elegance and enriched by quality finishes throughout, this impeccably presented four 4-6 Reedy Lakes Court, Leopold
Commanding an enviable front-row vantage over Half Moon Bay, with uninterrupted views across the glittering water to the Melbourne skyline, this residence delivers luxury & flexibility
4 Bed | 3 Bath | 2 Car | 313sqm
4 Bed | 3 Bath | 2 Car | 273sqm
Bed | 2 Bath | 2 Cars
Bed | 2 Bath | 2 Car | 507sqm
Positioned for complete lifestyle indulgence just 200m from the foreshore, this flawless 3-bedroom townhouse presents a 4/28 Clarke Street,
Lee Martin
$940,000-$960,000
Andrew Kibbis
Relishing its tranquil bayside surrounds, this 2-bedroom residence has been immaculately updated to create an oasis of style on an easily maintained 217sqm (approx.) parcel.
and exclusive with its spacious, light-filled interiors, quality finishes and peaceful setting, this flawless 4-bedroom home delivers a sophisticated coastal sanctuary.
Elegant
4 Bed | 2 Bath | 2 Car | 448sqm
207/1-2 Bluff Road, St Leonards
One of the prized jewels fronting St Leonards’ exclusive waterfront strip, this near-new one-bedroom apartment delivers an irresistible lifestyle opportunity.
$599,000-$650,000
46 King George Street, St Leonards
A superb opportunity awaits on this generous 513sqm (approx.) allotment, offering the ideal canvas for a contemporary coastal residence in one of the region’s most relaxed lifestyle pockets
513sqm approx
$395,000-$430,000
Kibbis 0411 424 412
salt air on the breeze, and – from a future second storey –sweeping water views: this 488sqm (approx.) vacant allotment. 488sqm approx
1 Moonah Circuit, Point Lonsdale
Build the coastal dream and start enjoying the laid-back Lonnie lifestyle with this level, cleared and ready-to-go vacant parcel in a blue-chip beachside suburb.
4 Roddick Grove, Queenscliff
Tucked just metres from the shoreline and privately set back from the road, this exceptional parcel in historic Queenscliff presents an opportunity to embrace an idyllic coastal lifestyle.
Get in touch with Kate our New Business and Leasing Manager to find the perfect property.
With over a decade of living and working on the Bellarine, Kate brings six years of trusted real estate industry experience, backed by two years of high-performing sales results.
Her approach is highly customer-service focused, driven by strong communication and sharp negotiation skills, alongside a genuine dedication to the local community.
Kate is fully committed to finding the most suitable renter for your property, ensuring you can confidently take full advantage of the current rental market.
Kate Lane
New Business & Leasing Manager
0459 925 828
kate@bellarineproperty.com.au
$2,950,000-$3,200,000
$2,250,000-$2,450,000
Grove’s tightly held Terrace. Set on an expansive 815sqm
Peta Walter Toby Lee
Bed | 3 Bath | 4 Car | 815sqm
- $1,595,000
Step inside this architecturally designed two-storey townhouse, where convenience meets luxury just 250m from the Barwon River, with total privacy to the north-facing covered deck.
Strolling distance to the village and beach from a heart-oftown locale, this impressively proportioned home with poolside
Perfectly located in Old Ocean Grove only 5mins walk to the main street, this stunning home epitomises the coastal lifestyle. Impressive large-scale proportions and soaring ceilings.
Toby Lee
$1,450,000-$1,500,000
Kate Lane
Just 450m from Ocean Grove’s sparkling coastline, this classic beach house offers relaxed coastal living for large local families or weekenders seeking the ideal seaside escape. 1 Altair Street, Ocean Grove
$1,075,000-$1,175,000
Toby
Harnessing a family-friendly atmosphere across a spacious
$1,000,000-$1,100,000
Opportunity knocks at this exceptional original home, positioned on a sizable 606sqm (approx) allotment in the absolute beating heart of 'Old' Ocean Grove.
A wonderful surprise packet cocooned within one of Old Ocean Grove’s premier enclaves, this flawless 2-bedroom hideaway presents the perfect combination of low-maintenance.
$690,000-$750,000
5-7 Wiltons Road, Ocean Grove
Positioned within a lifestyle lover’s playground of beaches, the river, lake, and golf course, this elevated 456sqm (approx.) allotment entices with opportunity to create your dream home.
95 Oakdean Boulevard, Ocean Grove 476sqm approx
Discover the perfect canvas for your dream home in the popular Kingston Coast Estate, with this 476sqm (approx.) vacant land parcel.
623sqm approx
$1,950,000 + GST
A rare opportunity awaits to purchase both the property that hosts the Starfish Bakery. Combining a prime inner village address with incredible development potential.
Turner 0408 552 539
80sqm approx
Levi
Peta Walter 0439 354 362
Positioned right in the heart of Barwon Heads main street, this retail space offers a secure investment with a long term tenancy.
1 Smithton Grove, Ocean Grove
precinct, these brand-new factory/warehouses are set to push
Levi
Levi
Kibbis
