Ocean Grove Voice - 3rd October 2025

Read all about it: Surviving cancer twice

An Ocean Grove woman is showing everyone that no matter what life throws at you, you can overcome anything and still live your best life.

Nicole Trimboli has survived cancer twice after being diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2006 and bowel cancer in 2021.

Ms Trimboli has since had her bowel removed and had to learn how to live with a stoma and ostomy bag.

“A lot of people become cancer, but I look at it as it’s not who I am; it’s what I had,” she said.

Ms Trimboli is pictured with her new book ‘What A Sh!t Show!’ about her health journey, which will be released on October 6, ahead of a book launch on October 11.

 Turn to page 6 for the full story.

House still closed

By Matt Hewson

Despite the efforts of Geelong council, services at Ocean Grove Neighbourhood House have still not resumed.

The City of Greater Geelong stepped in to temporarily oversee operations at the community centre, formerly Bellarine Training and Community Hub (BTACH), after its committee of management went into administration on Tuesday, September 2.

However, while the City hoped to minimise disruption to the centre’s services, which include a youth group and community courses across a range of subjects, they have yet to resume since

its closure.

The City published a statement on its websitelastweek,sayingthatwhileofficers “initially expected that services would continue largely as normal during the transition period”, that was not the case.

“We recognise that users of the Ocean Grove Neighbourhood House… are keen to hear when classes and activities will resume,” the statement read.

“However,astheappointedadministrator is still finalising the insolvency procedure and handover, our staff do not yet have operational access to the building. While this work is being completed, programs continue to be on hold.

“As soon as we gain access to the

building,wewillprioritisegettingactivities underway with minimal disruption and communicate this on our City of Greater Geelong social media, website and in an email to users.

“We appreciate your patience and understanding during this transition period. We look forward to the Ocean Grove Neighbourhood House once again becoming a hub of social connection, learning and recreation.”

Since opening in 1980 the community house has serviced a wide geographical region, including the Bellarine, Surf Coast and Geelong.

On Wednesday (October 1) the City’s executive director of City Life Anthony

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED SINCE 1988

Basford said while he did not know exactly when the centre would reopen, planning was “well and truly underway”.

“Over the coming weeks, our staff will reach out to program and service providers who previously used the centre to start making arrangements for their return,” he said. “To help us move towards reopeningmorequickly,weencourageany former users of the neighbourhood house who wish to resume their programs and activities to get in touch with our team by emailing communitystrengthening@ geelongcity.vic.gov.au

“We’ll continue to keep the community updated through social media as we move closer to reopening.”

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Join us at Deborah Cheetham Village for a special event with Denis Walter. This will be an opportunity to hear from renowned 3AW radio personality Denis Walter. Hosting Afternoons for 11 years, and now presenting nights across Victoria, Denis will share his experience on radio and some of the highlights of his extensive career.

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Offences surged, data says

By Jena Carr

There has been an increase in crime across OceanGroveandtheBellarine,accordingto CrimeStatisticsAgency’s(CSA)latestdata.

CSA released its data for the year ending June30,2025,onSeptember25,whichfound 25,662 total offences this year recorded for GreaterGeelong,whichincorporatesOcean GroveandtheBellarine,reachingitshighest pointinnineyears.

Two Ocean Grove and Bellarine suburbs recorded their highest numbers over nine years, including St Leonards, with 271

offences in 2025 from 176 in 2024, and Portarlington, with 241 in 2025 from 199 in 2024.

Western Region Division One SuperintendentMichaelReidsaidtheftfrom motor vehicles and retail theft remained among the fastest-growing crimes across thestate.

“Keeping our community safe is our top priority, and we’re committed to driving down crime in Greater Geelong through strong enforcement and prevention,” he said. “Our officers are working side by side with major shopping centres and

plain-clothed loss prevention officers, to targetretailtheftandidentifyshopthieves.

“Disrupting the supply of illicit drugs also remains a key priority, and the rise in trafficking and possession offences reflects the proactive work of our local uniform membersanddetectives.

“Weurgeanyonewhofallsvictimtocrime toreportitimmediately,astimelyreporting gives us the best chance of recovering evidence, identifying offenders and solving acase.”

The data also found a 24.2 per cent increase in recorded theft offences across

Curves and Lines group exhibition returns

By Jena Carr

Curves and Lines is coming to Ocean Grove with many works from artists across the country and the UK.

The annual group sculpture exhibition will be held at The Hive Gallery from October3toOctober26,withanexhibition launch scheduled for Saturday, October 4, at 2pm.

Artist Bruce Webb said it would be his fifth time participating in the group exhibition, and he looked forward to

people viewing his work.

“I do a lot of painting and sculpting from my travels overseas, and I’m also inspired by history, so it’s just something I love,” he said. “Most of my sculptures have been made out of metal, and I find that metal, even though it’s heavy and solid, is easy to bend and manipulate.

“I graduated from art school in 1980, which was a long time ago, and I couldn’t pursue my dream, but now, for the last 15 years, I’ve been painting and sculpting, and I just love it.

Two more years for ferry service

Ferry services between Portarlington and Docklands will continue for a further two years, following an increase in visitors to the region last year.

Last year featured an increase of 36 per cent in visitors to Portarlington from the previous year, with 677,000 people visiting the region, according to Tourism Research Australia data.

Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant said she was glad to see the service continued as it had become an integral part of the town and region since 2017 and carries close to 120,000 passengers annually.

“The Bellarine Peninsula is a great place to live and visit, recently coming 3rd at the Victorian Tourism Council Awards for Best Small Tourism Town,” she said.

“The Portarlington ferry plays an

important part of the tourism economy for the Bellarine, as well as making the Peninsula a more accessible place to live and commute to Melbourne for work.”

Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said more than 15000 passengers travelled on the ferry in the January summer peak, with the service still attracting thousands of passengers during the colder months.

“The Portarlington ferry is helping bring more visitors to the Bellarine, boosting localbusinessesandjobswhileshowcasing one of Victoria’s most popular coastal destinations,” he said.

The state government has invested more than $23 million in infrastructure to support the ferry’s operations, including works on the Portarlington harbour, pier, walkway and reef.

Greater Geelong from 7107 in 2024 to 8822 in2025.

Leopold recorded a high increase of theft with 203 offences in 2025 from 97 in 2024, while the total of property and deception offences rose in Drysdale with 137 in 2025 from82in2024.

Barwon Heads recorded its highest ever number of breaches of orders over nine years, with 46 offences recorded in 2025 comparedtosixoffencesin2024.

Ocean Grove saw a decrease in its total recorded offences over the past year by 19.6 percentfrom505in2024to406in2025.

Breakfast

to focus on safety

Wallingtontradiescangrabsomefree food and coffee on Monday, October 6 during a Health and Safety Month event.

WorkSafe Victoria will host a free breakfast for construction employers and workers at Fagg’s Mitre 10, 365 Grubb Road, where people will be able to enjoy breakfast and get the latestinformationonindustrysafety.

Chief health and safety officer Sam Jenkin said construction was among five priority areas being targeted by WorkSafeoverthenext12monthsasit remained one of the “most hazardous industries”acrossthestate.“(Thereis) asignificantnumberofincidentseach year, which is why we have developed a tailored approach to focus on the keyhazardstoreduceharm,”hesaid.

“These breakfasts are a great way for tradies to boost their knowledge in key areas while sharing their own experiencestohelpcreateanongoing cultureofhealthandsafetyonsite.”

Attendees will also have the chance to have any health and safety questions answered, with the event wrapping up with a networking session.

“I find it quite pliable, and I can get a lot ofshapesoutofit,soit’sagoodmediumfor me... and it’s always been a dream for me to do that work, and I’ve got a very vivid imagination.”

Bronze sculptor Lucy McEachern, originally from Spring Run Hereford Stud near Inverleigh, has also shipped some of hernewworkstothegalleryfromherhome in the UK.

The exhibition will also feature sculptures and painting works by George Lianos, Larissa Gray and Aukje Van Vark.

Mr Jenkin said WorkSafe had accepted 3294 injury claims from workers in the construction industry during 2024/25, with muscular stress due to manual handling the largest contributor. There had also been 67 confirmed workplace fatalities in construction over the last five years, with long-term contact with chemicals or substances and falls from height being the top causes of death,accordingtoWorkSafe.

Coles bid before minister

By Matt Hewson

Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj has reiterated his concerns and those of the community regarding a proposed Coles supermarket in Point Lonsdale to the state government.

Theproposal,whichhasdrawnsignificant opposition from the local community, would see Coles build a new supermarket at 2341-2349 Bellarine Highway, Point Lonsdale.

The retail giant has begun a pre-application process, engaging with the Department of Planning to see whether the proposal is eligible for the Development FacilitationProgram(DFP).

The DFP, designed to expedite development proposals of particular size, scale and significance, would allow the proposal to bypass municipal planning processes, instead putting the matter in the hands of Victorian Minister for Planning SonyaKilkenny.

Mayor Kontlej said the council’s role in this matter was to “provide feedback and advicewhenrequestedbytheDTP,ensuring our community’s perspectives and local considerationsareclearlycommunicated”.

“As part of the pre-application process, the City of Greater Geelong has raised substantial concerns about the proposal, including strategic misalignment, environmental impacts, infrastructure

limitations,andconflictswithretailpolicy,” hesaid.

Thesiteiscurrentlyzonedforcommercial use, but according to the City’s Point Lonsdale Structure Plan “this zoning, whichencouragesbulkygoodsretailingand manufacturing industry, is inappropriate for the land considering the tourism focus of Point Lonsdale and the location of the landactingasagatewayentrytothetown”.

The plan also states that “opportunity exists to rezone the land to a Special Use Zone to facilitate the development of an appropriately scaled tourist accommodationortourismrelateduse”.

Mayor Kontelj said while possible rezoning “remains a secondary

Boost for food and beverage businesses

By Matt Hewson

Local food, beverage and agribusiness industrieswillgetaboostwiththecreation of a new regional network to help them develop markets and take advantage of export opportunities.

The City of Greater Geelong and Geelong ManufacturingCouncil(GMC)announced the new Food and Agribusiness Network at the GMC Exports Forum, held on Wednesday, September 24 at Wurriki Nyal Civic Precinct.

With food and beverage manufacturing accounting for nearly 20 per cent of the 10,000 manufacturing jobs in the region, mayor Stretch Kontelj said Geelong’s agribusiness industries had “all the right

ingredients to grow our reputation as an international city”.

“Our manufacturing and agribusiness export history is rich, with many amazing business success stories supplying Geelong’s products to Australia and the world,” Mayor Kontelj said.

“The Food and Agribusiness Network will provide opportunities to increase interconnectivity within the industry as well as sharing practical knowledge.”

GMC chief executive Jenn Conley said herorganisationwasproudtopartnerwith the City to launch the network.

“Ourregionishometosomeoutstanding foodandagribusinessmanufacturers,”she said. “This network will help harness that experience by fostering stronger industry

connections and creating opportunities to share the incredible knowledge and expertise that exists here.

“The Food and Agribusiness Network willdeliverarangeofinitiatives–including industry tours, events, and briefings –focused on sharing practical insights into advanced manufacturing processes, business growth, commercial operations, supply chain and export development.“

Councillor Rowan Story said the partnershipwithGMCwasanexcitingnew step for local manufacturers.

“We encourage all food, beverage and agribusiness processors and manufacturers to register their interest with Geelong Manufacturing Council,” Cr Story said.

consideration”, it was not the “preferred or most effective pathway as a pre-application is currently under consideration for this proposal”.

“Giventhescaleandcomplexityinvolved, ifarezoningisconsideredmoreappropriate by the Minister, the Minister has the authority to initiate and progress such amendments, and Council respects this distinction within the planning process,” hesaid.

“I remain committed to constructive engagement with all stakeholders, including the Minister, the Department, and our local community, to ensure a transparent and coordinated approach as thismatterprogresses.”

Safer roads in a blitz for region

Geelong and Bellarine residents will soonbeabletocruisedownsmoother and safer roads as repair works take place across the region.

Major works will be delivered on Princes Highway West, Surf Coast Highway, Midland Highway and BellarineHighwayaspartofthestate government’s $976 million Better Roads Blitz investment.

Member for Lara Ella George said high-traffic areas and busy freight routes would undergo works to make roads safer and more reliable.

“This initiative not only supports our local economy but also improves the daily lives of Victorians by providing smoother pathways to work, school, and essential services,” she said.

“Our government’s investment in the Better Roads Blitz will significantly enhance the quality and reliability of key roads in the Geelong region, ensuring safer travel for commuters and freight alike.”

Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant said the community could alsoexpecttoseefixedandimproved roadsides, bridges, traffic lights, electronicsignsandotherstructures, along with the removal of offensive and unsightly graffiti.

“Our roads are essential to our community, and this investment is crucial for ensuring they are smoother, safer and more reliable,” she said.

Member for Geelong Christine Couzens said the investment in Geelong and the Bellarine’s roads providedbenefitsforfamiliesandthe economy.

Geelong, Bellarine see 46 per cent jump in international visitors

By Matt Hewson

The number of international tourists to the Greater Geelong region has skyrocketed this year.

Geelong and the Bellarine welcomed 46 per cent more international visitors in the 12 months ending in June 2025 compared to the year before, a much bigger increase than the statewide average of 11.5 per cent.

The latest data comes from Tourism Research Australia’s domestic tourism statistics and international visitor survey, announced by the state government last week.

Tourism Geelong & the Bellarine executive director Tracy Carter said while

international visitors made up a relatively small proportion of the region’s overall tourism, the latest figures were “important for a few reasons”.

“Onereasonisthespendisusuallyhigher with the international holidaymaker,” Ms Carter said.

“Another is that they’re not limited to weekends or peak holiday periods. They tend to travel at other times, which then spreads the visitation to our hotels and hospitalityestablishmentsintoothertimes of the year.

“Also, they travel differently; international travellers stay in regions for longer than the weekend visitation we see from a domestic traveller.”

According to Ms Carter, the changing natureofthetourismproductsnowoffered in our region has had a direct impact on the increase in international visitors.

“A generation ago, people came to GeelongandtheBellarinemaybejusttogo to the beach,” she said.

“Nowwe’vegotthisgreatsortofcalendar of events, and when you think about the Bellarine, there are world-class wineries and places to eat.

“Hospitality across the whole region has just lifted to such a high level… and this particularly relates to international travellersandthetypesofexperiencesthat they want to have.

“There’s more reason to come and there

are more ways for them to spend money, so that’s why we’re seeing this sort of uptick.”

And while times have undoubtedly been toughfortourismoperators,MsCartersaid the future was bright for tourism in the region.

“The convention centre, Nyal Banyul, has become such a game-changing piece of infrastructure for us,” she said.

“The business events in that centre will tend to happen off-peak and mid-week. Those events will genuinely drive new audiences that will support the accommodation and hospitality sectors. They’re an optimistic people, tourism operators, and they’re looking forward to coming into another peak season.”

Living with the bag

Ocean Grove’s Nicole Trimboli has survived cancer twice and now lives with an ostomy bag. Jena Carr speaks with Nicole ahead of the launch of her first book which details her health journey.

Surviving cancer once is an incredible feat for anyone, but for Ocean Grove’s Nicole Trimboli, cancer was just the beginning of her health journey.

It was 2006, and just over five months since Nicole had her second child, when she received the news that no one wants to hear.

“I had some neck and back pain in my shoulders, and my doctor said to me that perhaps maybe I needed to go and see a physio... but I didn’t really get any relief from that,” she said.

“I remember going to a work Christmas party (in 2005) and having to leave early becauseIhadsomuchpaininmyneckand my shoulder that we left and went home.

“Thenthenightsweatsstartedtohappen, where I was waking up wet, and I was like, ‘no, this is not right’, but I pushed through it, as I used to do, and went on holiday my family.

“I was standing out the front of a cabin at a caravan park, and I put my hand on my neck, and discovered that I had a big lump intheditchofmycollarboneaboutthesize of an egg.

“That’s when I started to really freak out as I knew that something was really wrong... and it was probably February (2006)beforeIwasactuallydiagnosedwith Hodgkin’s lymphoma (an immune system cancer).”

After learning to cope with her initial cancerdiagnosis,itwas15yearslaterin2021 when Nicole received further devastating news that she had bowel cancer, which led to her bowel being removed.

“It was quite frightening because I only had a little pain in the left-hand side of my stomach... but after having a colonoscopy, a surgeon told me I had bowel cancer,” she said.

“He said that if I had waited any longer, he reckons that in probably another three days,Iwouldhavebeencompletelyblocked and I would have come into hospital as an emergency case.

“Ijustthought,‘oh,herewegoagain’,asto be told that you have cancer a second time is pretty tough, and I was given options for how to go forward because doctors found the cancer in two places.

“My doctor said to me, ‘look, I can cut it out (the parts of her bowel with cancer) and rejoin the sections, but I’ll probably seeyouinfourtofiveyears’,andhesaidthe prognosis then may not be as good.

“Or, he said that we could take the whole bowel out, which would mean I could live my life with an ostomy bag, so I said, ‘take it out’.”

Nicole then had to learn how to live with a stoma (surgically created opening on the abdomen to allow for waste to exit the body) and ostomy bag (disposable bag attached to the stoma).

“It wasn’t even a decision really for me, whereasalotofpeoplemaynothavewanted to have the bag, but I’m all about getting the bag out because I think awareness is a good thing,” she said.

“The first 12 months with a stoma and ostomy bag are really tough, and I liken it to bringing a new baby home, as you have to learn how to live with it.

“People do stare, but I think the worst thing is that people look at you with pity, butIdon’tlookatitthatwayasIlookatitas what is keeping me alive, so I’m proud of it.

“You will get through it; you can get back into life because it’s not about what you can’t do, it’s about what you can do... and you’ve got to be body positive, so I get out there on the beach with my bikini on and I don’t worry about it.”

People look at you with pity... I look at it as what is keeping me alive, so I’m proud of it

- Nicole Trimboli

The now 51-year-old has had to make a lot of changes to her life following her two cancer diagnoses, and her main focus has been on healing.

“I’vejusthadmysix-monthlybloodtest... and I’m all clear, so I’ve got another six months,” she said.

“I live in six-to-12-month blocks in between the blood tests, and you just live the best life you possibly can until it’s time to go through that again.

“I’ve done a lot of inner work on myself and a lot of it’s been done at Ocean Grove in the last few years and I’m so in love with this town because it has healed me in so many ways.

“I had to completely remove myself from everything to be able to work through the healingprocess,anditwaswalkingmytwo dogs on the beach every morning that got me to the answers I needed.”

Nicole’s book ‘What A Sh!t Show!’, which shares her journey through cancer and her experience living with an ostomy bag, will be released on October 6, ahead of a book launch at Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club on October 11.

“The purpose for writing the book was to show that no matter what you’ve been through, whether it be illness or anything, you can come out the other side,” she said.

“I have had the idea for a book in my head since I got sick the second time, but I’m glad that I wrote it when I did, which I started writing in February and finished last month.

“I think it would have been a very different book had I written it straight out of surgery, and the focus probably would have been more on the illness and not on the healing.

“Now that I’m holding the book in my hand, it’s amazing and I hope it helps a lot of other people... and I believe the book will be just the beginning of something amazing.”

Visit eventbrite.com.au/e/what-asht-show-ocean-grove-book-launchtickets-1646311083769forfreeticketstothe book launch.

Voices heard on the coast

By Matt Hewson

A number of key themes have come into focus through Barwon Coast’s seven-month engagement process regarding the developmentofitsForeshoreMasterPlan.

The master plan, which will guide the managementofallpubliccoastallandbetween BreamleaandCollendinaforthenext15years, will be shaped by “extensive and inclusive” engagement, according to the report detailing theprocess.

Last week Barwon Coast released both the full engagement report - a comprehensive description of the engagement process - and a reportsummary.

The reports detail the processes used to engage a variety of sections of the community, including surveys, workshops, public pop-up events, youth forums, drop-in sessions and inter-agency meetings. Through the course of gathering feedback, a number of common themesandvaluesemerged.

The clearest message was that “people care deeply about this place”, with community members valuing the foreshore “not just as a natural landscape, but as part of their identity andwayoflife”.

Furthermore, people reported they wanted to balance protection of the coastland with the ability to access it, while being clear that “protection comes first” and where access

Learn how to save a life

By Jena Carr

People across the Bellarine can learn how to help save a life with events taking place across the region for Shocktober.

This month marks the sixth year of Ambulance Victoria’s Shocktober campaign dedicatedtoimprovingcardiacarrestsurvival rates, with Call (Triple Zero 000), Push (Perform CPR), Shock (use an AED) sessions heldacrosstheregiontoinformpeopleofwhat to do in an emergency. Sessions will be held at Portarlington Makers Market on Saturday, October 5, at 7am and at the Changing Mind andPositiveAgeingExpoinMoolaponFriday, October 24, from 11.30am.

Ambulance Victoria acting community engagement coordinator Sara Hadden said 21 people in Victoria will experience a cardiac

arresteverydaybutthatonly10wouldsurvive.

“What we’re finding is that the more people we have willing to engage in learning CPR, we’re having better patient outcomes,” she said.“So,peoplearesurvivingmorethanwhat theyeverhavebeensimplybecausepeopleare willing to step in, provide CPR to the person and use an AED.”

Sessions will also be held at Golden Plains Farmers’ Market on October 4, Highton Emergency Service Day on October 5, Lara Community Market on October 12, and Bannockburn Seniors Festival on October 15.

Other Call, Push, Shock sessions are at Deakin University Waurn Ponds Campus’ Diwali Festival on October 24, Wathaurong Co-operative’s Stepping Stones to Deadliness on October 25 and Geelong Health Festival on October 25.

is provided it should be “thoughtful… and respectful of the environment and cultural values”.

Barwon Coast Committee of Management

chair Sandra Gatehouse thanked the various groups of respondents represented in the report, which included community members, Traditional Owners, key stakeholders, a dedicated community reference group and visitorstothearea.

“We are incredibly grateful for the depth and quality of feedback received from the community,”MsGatehousesaid.

“Theideas,insights,andperspectivesshared throughtheseengagementactivitieswillplaya vitalroleinshapingtheDraftForeshoreMaster Plan.”

Thedraftdocument,whichwillbereleasedin early 2026 for more community feedback. The resultsofthatsecondroundofengagementwill thenbeusedtodevelopthefinalplan,whichis expectedtobecompletedbymid-2026.

Ms Gatehouse said Barwon Coast was now “taking the time to carefully consider this feedback, alongside technical and environmentalconsiderations”.

“Barwon Coast is now taking the time to carefully consider this feedback, alongside technicalandenvironmentalconsiderations”.

Visit barwoncoast.com.au/project/ foreshoremasterplan to view the two engagementreports.

Session covers

Hear from our inspectors and health and safety experts on fall prevention (including timber guardrails and the latest scaffold tips), SWMS and silica. Bring your questions and listen to insights from inspectors on how to be inspection ready and keep all workers safe on your sites.

Presented with Fagg’s Mitre 10.

Session details

Date: Monday, 6 October 2025

Time: 7.00am – 9.00am

Where: Fagg’s Mitre 10, Wallington

Address: 365 Grubb Road, Wallington 3222

Catering: Breakfast from 7.30am

Spoiled for choice these school holidays at the library

Kids across the Bellarine Peninsula have been spoilt for choice for school holiday activities at a library close to home.

Many activities have been held across Geelong Regional Library Corporation’s (GRLC) hubs, including Barwon Heads, Drysdale, Leopold, Ocean Grove and Queenscliff’s libraries.

Voice photographer Ivan Kemp went along to one of these events at the Ocean Grove Library on October 1, where families were immersed in the reading of a book.

Other popular activities held across the region’s libraries included Story Dogs (listening to a story and interacting with a dog), Lego Self Portraits, Recycled Racers (making a race car out of recycled material), and Pet Portraits.

GRLC recently received $1,613,050 as part of its annual funding for the 2025/26 financial year through the Public Libraries Funding Program to promote education and innovation among young people across the state.

Minister for Local Government Nick Staikos said the program was established to provide annual funds and support a range of essential community activities and services delivered through libraries.

“We are supporting our terrific community libraries and the endless access to knowledge, social connection andentertainment they offer all Victorians,” he said.

“Our libraries offer so much more than books – they foster lifelong learning and contribute to the connections that strengthen and enrich Victorian communities.”

Victorian Public Library ambassador Andrea Rowe said libraries were no longer

just a place for borrowing books as they providedasafespaceforsocialinteraction, digital connection and lifelong learning.

“With this funding, libraries can continue to inspire creativity and foster

learning in communities right across Victoria,” she said.

The government has invested more than $498.5millionthroughthePublicLibraries Funding Program, which has allowed

GRLC to continue running activities like its school holidays programs. Visit events.grlc.vic.gov.au/events for more events and activities following the end of GRLC’s school holiday program.

Family fun at Wombat’s Walk

By Matt Hewson

There will be fun for the whole family when Wombat’s Walk returns to Portarlington Recreation Reserve for the secondyear.

The community day is the flagship fundraising event for Wombat’s Wish, a Clifton Springs-based charity supporting children across Victoria who have experienced the loss of a parent or primarycaregiver.

While the focus of the day is on those raising funds by walking or running laps of the oval, the day will be jam packed with entertainment, activities, food and drinks.

The event, running from 10am to 3pm on Sunday, October 12, will feature rides, animal farms, face-painting, yoga sessions and live music, a market featuringmorethan30stalls,aswellasa barbecue,canteenandfoodtrucks.

Melbourne Vixens player and Wombat’s Wish ambassador Emily

Mannix will host a netball clinic, while emergency services volunteers and community groups such as Geelong Street Rodders and Star Wars fan costumingorganisation501stLegionwill beonhandprovidingentertainmentand activities.

Wombat’sWishgeneralmanagerNicki Dunne said the day would have a “full familyfestival”atmosphere.

“We’vegotsomuchstuffgoingon…the CFAaresettinguptargetssothekidscan shoot them with water hoses, that sort of stuffhappeningallday,”shesaid.

“It’s a full community day to not only raiseawarenessabouttheworkWombat’s Wish does supporting bereaved kids, but alsotoraisemoneysowecancontinueto supportthosekidsatnocosttofamilies.

“By joining the walk or attending on the day, you’re giving grieving children hope,supportandhelpingensurethatno youngpersongrievesalone.”

Visit wombatswish.org.au for more information.

Birds, whales and a sunfish

I’m writing this at the end of my road trip onthelongdrivebacktoOceanGrovefrom Bermagui.

I said goodbye to the white-bellied sea eagles,satinbowerbirdsandwhite-headed pigeons as we exited Bermi and psyched ourselves up for the long drive home.

One of the highlights of the trip was seeing many whales undertaking their annual migration from their breeding grounds to the Antarctic for summer. In Bermagui I saw many whales swim very close to shore, so much so that I could hear them communicating with each other.

There was also an ocean sunfish in the shallows at Horseshoe Bay one morning, which gave all the people who were having a swim a huge fright, as sunfish have a largefinthatsticksoutofthewater,andthe beach was closed because the lifesavers thought it was a shark.

I tried very hard to see a superb lyrebird inBermagui,asIdonothaveadecentphoto of this magnificent bird in my collection. I was getting out of bed at 5.30am every day and driving to Bermagui Mudworks Pottery,astheownerswerehappytoletme wander on their bush block to listen and look for superb lyrebirds.

LastyearIsawthem,butthisyearIcould hear them calling, although I did not lay eyes on them. It was lovely to hear them

and also to hear a powerful owl calling on two of the mornings.

A highlight of my trip was spotting an osprey sitting on a lightpole in Bermagui Harbour. In all my 30 years of holidaying in this area I have never seen an osprey. WhenIstoppedeatingmylunchatthecafe at the harbour and grabbed my camera, it decidedtoflyoffinanortherlydirection,so myphotoswereordinary,butitwasalovely moment.

I also went to the Blue Mountains and enjoyed visiting the botanical gardens in that region where I heard some lyrebirds, spotted a pair of eastern shrike-tits, and saw many yellow-faced honeyeaters.

At Jervis Bay I also visited the Botanic Gardens and saw a male satin bowerbird

hanging around his bower. Bowers are not nesters. The male bowerbird builds a structure to attract females. Male bowerbirds decorate the bowers, which consist of two parallel rows of thin sticks placed in the ground, with blue objects (such as bottle tops and clothes pegs for example) to attract the female bowerbirds.

While I was watching the male near the bower, a female walked around the bower. Female bowerbirds construct a platform nest made of sticks in trees, around 30 metres from the ground.

On the subject of mating, Robin Spry sent me a photo of a pair of Caspian terns courting at Lake Victoria, where Robin has a farm.

The female Caspian tern is on the left

of Robin’s photo and has a faded orange flag number 21 on her upper left leg, plus a silver band on her upper right leg. She was banded as a chick on Mud Island in November 2011, so is almost 25 years of age.Themalehasasilverbandonhislower left leg but has not been aged.

Robinhasbeenobservingthispairather lakeside since August 2021. In February 2022 the male brought his fledgling back to her property.

I made a Google search as to the ages of Caspian terns in the wild, and the result was that they live for around 12 to 15 years, with the oldest recorded living to 32 years.

The Caspian terns that visit Robin’s farm are obviously doing very well to live to over 20 years of age, and to be still breeding.

Celebrating our seniors

By Cr Rowan Story

This month offers a wonderful invitation to connect, learn and share as the Geelong Seniors Festival unfolds across the Bellarine and Greater Geelong.

The festival celebrates the experience and creativity of older residents while encouraging healthy, active living at every age.

People aged 55 and over now make up about 30 per cent of Greater Geelong’s population.

Theirknowledgeandenergyenrichevery part of our region, from sporting clubs and volunteer groups to local businesses and the arts.

Thefestivalisachancetorecognisethese contributionsandtoprovideopportunities forsocialconnection,newskillsandplenty of enjoyment.

The City of Greater Geelong is proud to support the festival, which reflects the goalssetoutinourCommunityHealthand Wellbeing Strategy 2025–29 and Council Plan 2025–29.

Both plans call for stronger neighbourhood connections, more opportunities for physical activity and better mental health outcomes.

Participatinginsharedactivities,suchas picking up a paintbrush, joining a walking group, or attending an exercise class, helps peoplestayengagedandreducestheriskof loneliness or ill health.

Thisyear’sprogramstretchesrightacross the Bellarine and the wider Geelong area.

YoumightliketojoinaLatindanceclass, take a healthy retirement ride with Cycling Geelong, or try javelin, shot put or discus with the Geelong Throwers Group.

a community ukulele session, or discover their talent for artalongsidedrinksandnibblesatLeopold Community and Learning Centre.

Barwon Heads Seniors Centre will host a lively Dance, Sing and Socialise afternoon, while Portarlington residents can look forward to The Big Little Show. This intergenerational music event pairs young

performers with seasoned local musicians.

Meanwhile, Bellarine Secondary College will host a ‘come and try’ session for Walking Basketball - a low-impact, social and fun way to improve levels of physical activity.

Another local highlight is the Bellarine Volunteer Wellbeing Day on Wednesday October 8.

It’s a day of nurturing activities and social connection for people aged 60-plus on the Bellarine who volunteer in their community.

Enjoy a free healthy lunch alongside activities such as meditation, yoga, qi gong and singing, all in the beautiful Point Lonsdale Surf Lifesaving Club.

The City of Greater Geelong provides a wide range of services for older residents, and the Seniors Festival demonstrates our ongoing commitment to engagement, social connection and mental wellbeing.

In 2016, we joined 44 other Victorian councils by signing a ’Statement of Support and Partner Endorsement’ to the World Health Organisation’s Age Friendly declaration.

With support from the Victorian government,morethan3000eventswillbe held across the state during the Victorian Seniors Festival, including the Victorian Senior of the Year Awards on October 22.

If you are 55 or over, I encourage you to browse the program and book early for the activities that interest you.

Bookings are essential. For the full program of local events happening, visit geelongaustralia.com.au/apa

To see what’s happening across the state during the Victorian Seniors Festival 2025, head to seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/festival

CONNECT. CREATE. CELEBRATE.

Celebrate seniors month

The Victorian Seniors Festival is a major statewidefestivalforandinvolvingseniors andrunsfromOctober1to31everyyear.

The festival delivers a range of free and low-cost events for older Victorians. Celebrate positive ageing and take part in events and activities close to home and rightacrossthestate.

Festival events are delivered by the Victorian government, local councils, community and cultural organisations, andcommercialpartners.

Port Phillip Ferries is offering 30 percent off for seniors and concession card holders forferryservicesduringthefirsttwoweeks ofOctober.

The festival also includes the annual Victorian Senior of the Year Awards. These awards acknowledge older Victorians who volunteer to assist, support and encourage others. It is an opportunity to celebrate and recognise their contributions to the community.

To find out more about the Victorian Seniors Festival, go to seniorsonline.vic. gov.au/festival-calendar

Victorian Seniors Card holders can access eight days of free public transport across Victoria from October 5 to 12. This includes travel across all metropolitan services, V/Line train and coach services, and selected regional bus services outside of the Myki-enabled area. See more at seniorsonline.vic.gov.au/free-travel

Not only does Just Better Care provide exceptional in-home care, but it’s also a greatplacetowork.

As one of Australia’s largest providers of in-home aged care and disability support, clients are treated with care and respect by a team of passionate people.

Community support worker Steve Brooke said Just Better Care was a “great and caring place to work”.

“It’s super important to enable the clients to maintain their independence and remain

he said. “I’ve been with Just Better Care Geelong for just over two

and I have a wide variety of clients that I assist every week.” To start your Just Better Care journey, call 03 5222 1518, email mailge@justbettercare.com or

Victorian Seniors Festival 2025 CONNECT. CREATE. CELEBRATE. 1-31

Helping to make lives better with Nurse Next Door

At Nurse Next Door Home Care Services

Geelong, care is a relationship built on trust, compassion, and the belief that everyone deserves to live life in their own home,ontheirownterms.

Fewstoriesillustratethisbetterthanthat of client Di, a retired nurse whose courage andwarmthinspiretheentireteam.

WhenDifirstconnectedwithNurseNext Door about 12 months ago, she was facing significant health challenges, including a history of cancer and Crohn’s disease. Di sought care that combined medical expertisewithgenuineunderstandingbya locallyemployedteam.

Owner and registered nurse Kristy Kayler-Thomson, who founded Nurse Next DoorGeelongtobridgegapsinhome-based support, understood Di’s needs immediately. With nearly two decades of nursing experience and a passion for MakingLivesBetter,KristyensuredthatDi receivednotonlyhigh-qualityclinicalcare butalsopersonalattentionandcontinuity, Despite ongoing treatments and frequent hospital visits, Di’s life is filled withmomentsofjoyandconnection.

LastChristmas,sheachievedalong-held wish to visit her children interstate. The journey required complex arrangements, from medical clearance and oxygen approvalstotransportlogistics.

Nurse Next Door caregivers coordinated every detail and personally drove her to andfromtheairport,turningachallenging planintoatreasuredfamilymemory.

The team also celebrates Di’s personal milestones. For a recent birthday, they surprised her with beautiful flowers, a simple but meaningful gesture that

captured their shared commitment to makingeverydaycount.

For Di, the greatest gift has been the sense of belonging. Regular visits, friendly conversations, and consistent caregivers have created what she fondly calls a “family.”

Whether it’s helping with daily tasks, checking her oxygen levels, or simply sharing a chat over coffee, the team provides both professional support and heartfeltcompanionship.

Divaluesthefreedomtoremainathome, a goal she has firmly stood by. With Nurse Next Door’s 24/7 availability and tailored services,sheknowsshecanstaywhereshe feelshappiestandmostcomfortable.

Kristy’s vision for Nurse Next Door Geelong is to enable people to lead lives filled with positivity, possibility and purpose. Di’s story embodies that vision: a life enriched not only by expert nursing care but by shared laughter, trust, and the confidence to keep planning for the future. For families across Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula, Di’s journey is a reminderthatwiththerightsupport,home is more than a place - it’s where life’s most meaningfulmomentsunfold.

If you or someone you love would like to explore compassionate, personalised home care in Geelong, Nurse Next Door is here 24/7. Call 1300 600 247 or visit nursenextdoor.com.au to discover how we can help you or a loved one live more joyfullyandindependentlyathome.

Chelsea and Di, who received flowers on her birthday from Nurse Next Door. (Supplied)

Importance of nutrition

As we age, maintaining good nutrition becomes even more crucial for our health andwellbeing.

While our energy requirements may decrease due to reduced activity, our need for essential nutrients often remains the sameorevenincreases.

To support healthy ageing, it’s important to make every meal as nutrient dense as possible. Following dietary guidelines and includingavarietyoffoodsfromallfivefood groupshelpsensurewegetthevitaminsand minerals we need. Limiting foods high in saturated fat, sugar, salt, and alcohol, while increasing fibre and water intake, can help prevent common issues like constipation andsupportoverallhealth.

Specific conditions such as osteoporosis and arthritis benefit from a balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids. For those with dental issues,

softer foods like cooked vegetables and mincedmeats.

Shoppingandcookingcanbedifficultfor some older adults, particularly those living alone or with mobility challenges. Stock up on long-lasting pantry staples, such as canned fish, beans, pasta, and cereals, can make it easier to prepare nutritious meals withoutwaste.

Homestyle Aged Care has provided quality aged care in a safe and supportive environment that feels like home for residents for almost 40 years. If you or your loved one are looking for care in Ocean Grove, Leopold or Grovedale, our admissions team can discuss your individualsituationandadviseonthemany optionsavailable.

Smile brighter with Affordable Denture Clinic in East Geelong

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

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

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

Jasonandhisskilledteamarecommitted to helping you discover the best options to achieveyouridealsmile.

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

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

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

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

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

Jason acknowledges that this achievement wouldn’t have been possible

Fans give thanks to Cats

Even though Geelong lost the AFL grand final to Brisbane on Saturday, it didn’t stop Cats fans from saying ‘thank you’ to the team at a family day at Kardinia Park on Sunday. Voice photographer Ivan Kemp went along as the players and staff also thanked the fans for their support.

Two in a row for Flying Brick at major Sydney show

FlyingBrickCiderCohasdoneitagain.

The Wallington-based business won last year’s Champion Cider category at the Sydney Royal Beer & Cider Show and backeditupthisyearwithanothergong.

The best cider category was hotly contested with judges impressed by the overallcalibreofentries.

Flying Brick emerged as champion once again with its standout Flying Brick Cider Co MC, while its Original Cider was also recognised for its excellent quality, receiving the prestigious Chair of Judges AnnualPrize.

“There were several gold-medal winning ciders this year that represented the top tier of quality, with a neck and neck battle for the Champion title” Chair of Judges Ian Kinghamsaid.

“While the eventual champion product exhibitedarichtraditionalapplecharacter with layered complexity and a dry, structured finish, the runner-up delivered remarkableflavourdepthandabeautifully balanced combination of sweetness and acidity. Both were worthy of recognition which made this an easy choice for the ChairofJudgesaward.”

This year’s Beer & Cider Show saw more than 220 beers and ciders assessed, with 80 gold medals awarded, along with 12 championawards.

Entries are judged by an independent panel, chosen for their expertise within their industry, who assess products throughablindtasting.

Productsarethenscoredusinga20-point scoring system and measured against a pre-determinedsetofbenchmarkscores.

Gold, silver and bronze medals are awarded to products meeting the respectivebenchmark,allowingproducers

LEURA PARK ESTATE

Artisan wines without compromise

• Sensational setting

• Stunning pizzas, platters & fresh local fare

• Live Music Sundays

• Wine Tastings

• Open Thurs - Sunday 11am - 5pm

1400 Portarlington Rd, Curlewis 03 5253 3180 leuraparkestate.com.au

12606035-SN21-23

to compare their product against industry standards.

To achieve gold medal status, products must be considered outstanding and score

FLYING BRICK CIDER CO

Funky, Fabulous, Fun.

• Landmark Bellarine venue

• Innovative space

• Delicious food

• 100% naturally crafted ciders

• Luxurious grounds & vineyard

• OPEN 7 Days 11am-5pm 1251 Bellarine Hwy, Wallington 03 5250 6577 flyingbrickciderco.com.au

12606701-KG21-23

atleast17outof20.

Gold medal products within each category are then re-assessed in a blind tasting, by an expanded panel of judges, to

JACK RABBIT VINEYARD

• Iconic Bellarine winery

• Unrivalled panoramic views

• Contemporary a la carte

• Sophisticated wines

• Lunch / Wine Tastings

• OPEN 7 Days

85 McAdams Lane, Bellarine 03 5251 2223

jackrabbitvineyard.com.au

12606706-RR21-23

determinechampionawardwinners.

General Manager of Hospitality Tim Harris accepted the awards on behalf of FlyingBrick.

THE RANGE

@CURLEWIS

Finesse your form or just for fun.

• Lunch / Dinner / Snacks

• Burger, Beverage & Balls packages

• Barista coffe, beer, wine & cocktails

• OPEN 7 days

1201 Portarlington Rd, Curlewis Ph 5251 1111 curlewisgolf.com.au

Shop local in Ocean Grove

Voice photographer Ivan Kemp went to The Terrace in Ocean Grove on Wednesday to see who was out shopping local during the school holidays.

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,

Cicatrice (4)

18 Making loud and confused noise (10) 21 Ticklish (6) 22 Surroundings (6) 24 Fusion (5) 25 Purchaser (5) 26 Fashion designer, – Jacobs (4)

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WANT YOUR EVENT LISTED? Community Calendar is made available free of charge to not-for-profit organisations to keep the public informed of special events and activities. Send item details to Voice Community Calendar, 1/47 Pakington Street, Geelong West, 3218, or email to newsdesk@voicegroup.com.au. Deadline for copy and announcements is 5pm Tuesday.

Ocean Grove Day VIEW

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

 oceangroveday.viewclub@gmail.com

Ballroom dance

Leopold Hall, 805-809 Bellarine Highway, Saturday October 4, 7.30-10.30pm, $10 includes supper, music Ben. Sunday October 5, 2-4.30pm, part of seniors month, afternoon tea provided, admission free, music Charles.

 0400 500 402

Ocean Grove Snooker Club

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

 0448 391 366

Bellarine Historical Society Inc.

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

 Ann, 0407 234 541

Portarlington playgroup

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

Ocean Grove Library

Tuesday October 14, 2-3pm: introduction to cybersafety

Tuesday October 21, 2-3pm: Know your right - advocacy and support for older Victorians

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

Mondays 10.30-11.30am Preschool story time

Tuesdays 4-5pm Youth Collective (ages 12-18)

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

 Kids school holiday Sessions: events. grlc.vic.gov.au

Bellarine Presbyterian Church Services Sunday 10am, Ocean Grove Senior Citizens’ Clubrooms, 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove.

 Rev Brett Cummins, 0438 218 864, or secretary Neil Mansfield, 0405 064 976

The Big Read

Meets every other Wednesday from February 5, 10.30am-noon, Ocean Grove Senior Citizens’ Club, 101 The Terrace.

 Paul, 0425 110 792

Barefoot bowls

Point Lonsdale Bowls Club every Friday and Sunday evening during the holidays. Live music every second Sunday.

 5258 1150

Live music

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

Drysdale Day VIEW

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

 Margaret, 0431 636 090

Book sale

Uniting Grovedale book sale Friday October 3 & Saturday October 4, Uniting Grovedale site, 272 Torquay Road, corner Reserve and Torquay Roads, 10am-20pm. All books are $1 and children’s books 50 cents.

Ocean Grove Evening VIEW

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

 oceangroveevening.viewclub@gmail.com

Croquet

Drysdale Bowling & Croquet Club, Clifton Springs Road, Tuesdays from 10am for training, bring a friend.

 0428740 591

Ocean Grove Soft Tennis

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

 Megan, 0439 317 344

CWA Nightlights Ocean Grove

Meets the first and third Monday of the month, 2.30pm, Seniors Club, 102 The Terrace, Ocean Grove. All welcome.

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

Bellarine Women’s Workshop

Portarlington Girl Guides Hall. Meets every second Thursday, and second Saturday of the month.

 Facebook: Bellarine Women’s Workshop for further details

Book club

Leopold CAE book club meets second Tuesday each month from 6.30pm. Very friendly group. New members welcome.

 Shirley, 0488 055 969

Carpet bowls

Leopold Hall 805-809 Bellarine Highway, Leopold on Wednesday and Friday 1-3.15pm. Admission: $4 includes afternoon tea.

 0400 500 402

Scottish country dancing classes

GOG Scottish Country Dance classes

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

 Barbara, 0419 511 781

Ocean Grove Senior Citizens 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove

Weekly

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

Friday: 9am, art classes, 1pm, cards 500. Fortnightly

CWA 1st & 3rd Monday 2.30pm

 Kareen, 0419 246 346, or Janis 5255 4585

Book club, Wednesday 10.30am.

 Paul, 0425 110 792, or Dianne 5255 1372

Chess clubs

For chess fun simply come along and see yourself, play some chess, meet some members, with no obligation to join. We welcome players of all abilities. Ocean Grove, Tuesdays at 1.30pm at 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove; Portarlington, Mondays at 9.30am, Parks Hall, 87 Newcombe Street, Portarlington; and St Leonards, Thursdays at 9.30am, unit 2

1375-1377 Murradoc Road, (on Blanche Street), St Leonards.

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

TOWN club

The Springs TOWN Club (Take Off Weight Naturally) meets Mondays, 9-10.30am at the Community Hub, 23 Eversley Street, Drysdale. Weigh-in, group therapy and regular relaxation sessions. Cost: $5 per session, $54 annual fee.

 Bev, 0421 636 830

Drysdale Ladies Probus Club

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

 Raelene, 4244 0376

Afternoon tea dance

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

 5251 3529

CWA Drysdale

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

 Jenni, 0452 258 333

Writers’ group

The Hub writers’ group meets at Arts Hub, Clifford Parade, Barwon Heads, on the first Sunday of the month from 2-4pm. New members welcome.

 dorothy.johnston@hugonet.com.au

Out & about on the Swan Bay Express

It was all aboard for the Swan Bay Express from Queenscliff station on Tuesday with families enjoying the school holidays. Voice photographer Ivan Kemp was there before the train pulled out.

Cheap low emissions travel

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

Toyota’s small but practical Yaris is often overlooked in the rush to buy larger more powerfulmodels.

But for environmentally conscious buyers the hybrid-powered pocket rocket offers a very real alternative to fully electric vehicles.

The three cylinder hybrid powertrain offers super low fuel consumption and with itincrediblylowengineemissions.

In many ways, you could say it is the perfectcitycar.

Styling Yarishascomealongwaysincethedebacle over its name when introduced as the ToyotaEchobackin1999.

It is now one of the most popular cars on the road with more than 360,000 sales over fourgenerations.

There are three grades to choose from: Ascent Sport, SX and ZR - priced from $28,990. SX takes the price to $32,390 while the sporty ZR enters the ledger at $34,590allpricesbeforeon-roadcosts.

The high performance, three-door GR Yarisispricedfrom$55,490.

Premium paint adds $500 and two-tone paint(blackroof)is$450.

YarisCrossisbasedonthesameplatform and starts from $31,790 plus on-roads in front-driveform.

All grades apart from the GR are powered by the same three-cylinder hybrid powertrainthesedays.

The new 1.5-litre three-cylinder powertrain develops more power than its four-cylinder predecessor, while using substantially less fuel and cutting emissions.

In fact, it offers the best fuel economy of any Toyota, using just 3.3 litres of fuel per 100km and producing just 76 grams of CO2 perkilometre.

Standard kit includes cloth trim and manual aircon, 15-inch steel wheels, analoguespeedo,built-innavigation,active cruise control, automatic high beam and speedsignrecognition.

There’s also LED daytime, tail and stop lights, auto-fold mirrors with LED turn signals,andrearprivacyglass.

SX adds 16-inch alloys, climate air, premium steering wheel and shift knob, LED headlights, indicators and rear combination lights, keyless smart entry, smart-start ignition button and soft-touch instrumentpanel.

Top-of-the-line ZR gains 16-inch alloys, sports front seats, rear spoiler, head-up display,sportsfrontseatsaswellasNanoe-X airfilteringtechnology.

SX and ZR feature a 7.0-inch digital instrumentcluster.

Auto lights are standard, but the wipers are manual and so is the rear-view mirrorsowediscovered.

Toyota seems to have adopted the approach-ifit’snotpresentthenbestnotto mentionit.

Yaris is covered by a five-year unlimited kilometrewarranty.

Infotainment

Infotainment comes in the form of an 8.0-inch touchscreen, with Bluetooth, voice recognition, built-in navigation, AM/ FM and DAB+ digital radio, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with genericsix-speakeraudio.

What it doesn’t get is a wireless charge pad.

TherearetwoUSB-Cportsinthefrontbut noneforrearseatpassengers.

All grades come with 12 months of access to Toyota Connected Services, including Safety and Security features, Multimedia ConnectandDrivingInsights-allaccessible throughthemyToyotaConnectapp.

Safety

Yaris gets a five-star rating for safety with eight airbags including a centre airbag for thefront.

It has a reversing camera plus sensors that can detect vehicles or pedestrians at intersections when making turns, active cornering assist and a secondary collision braking.

Autonomous emergency braking (Car-to-Car and Vulnerable Road User) as well as lane keep assist (LKA) with lane departure warning (LDW), emergency lane keeping (ELK) and an advanced speed assistance system (SAS) are fitted as standardonallvariants.

There are also front and rear parking sensorsandaparkingsupportbrakesystem that can warn the driver of objects around the vehicle and even apply the brakes if necessary.

ZR variants gain Blind Spot Monitor, Safe ExitAssistandRearCrossTrafficAlert.

Engines/transmissions

The 1.5-litre three-cylinder powertrain drives the front wheels through a CVT-style, continuously variable automatic transmission.

Operating on the Atkinson Cycle, the petrol engine’s 67kW and 120Nm are supplemented by a 59kW and 141Nm electric motor-generator and a compact lithium-ionbattery.

Combined system output is 85kW (combinedtorqueisnotstated).

Driving

The all-new Yaris is shorter and sits lower than its predecessor, with a longer wheelbase for maximum interior space and stability.

Unlike its predecessor it is available only infive-doorhatchbackform;thethree-door model is reserved for the performanceflagshipGRmodel.

Duringdevelopmentofthecar,MrToyota himself, Akio Toyoda, stepped in to delay thelaunchofthecarfor12months.

The first draft was initially larger and heavier, which would have made it more expensive,andhewantedthefattrimmed.

A sporty exterior design comprises a prominent cascading grille, longer bonnet, sculpted door panels, dynamic character linesandashorterrearoverhang.

The interior offers an open, spacious and comfortable cabin with ample headroom, a wider centre console and an up-market ambience with combination cloth and pseudosuedetrim.

Ascent Sport has an all-black interior; SX gains silver highlights while ZR is distinguishedbysportyredinserts.

Stepping from the massive Tundra directly into the diminutive Yaris was a professionalchallenge.

The new platform permits the driver'sseattobesetlowerandfurther back, creating a more engaging driving position and helping to lower the centre of gravitybyaround15mm.

The steering wheel is set closer to the driver,withwidertiltandreachadjustment.

It’s reasonably comfortable in front, however there’s virtually no legroom in the back, making Yaris more of a 2+2 proposition.

Electric steering assistance is tuned for a light touch at low speed and a responsive feelingathighspeed.

A 270-litre cargo area incorporates a two-level boot floor, while larger items can be accommodated with a 60:40 split-fold rearseat.

A space saver spare is provided in the eventofapuncture.

Yaris hybrid can be operated in a fuel-saving Eco mode or more responsive Powermode.

As a full hybrid, it can also operate on electric power alone, which contributes noticeably to its urban-cycle fuel consumptionofjust2.8L/100km.

The hybrid transaxle adopts a compact dual-axis structure with the power-control unit installed directly above it, resulting in asmall,lightweightsystem.

The chassis has been engineered to improve dynamic qualities, reduce body roll and improve braking stability and stoppingdistances.

The revised front MacPherson struts and rear torsion-beam layout includes reduced friction, softer springs and an increase in rearrollstiffness.

Theregenerativebrakesfeatureventilated discsatthefrontanddrumsattherear.

The thrummy three-cylinder engine in combination with the electric motor is surprisingly responsive, but a bit raucous underhardacceleration.

There’sjusttheonegear,buttheBposition provides additional engine braking when travellingdownhill.

Drive mode select offers a choice of three modes: Standard, Power and Eco. EV mode canalsobeselectedwithadifferentswitch.

Power mode is the one you want when there’ssomeoneupyourclacker.

Because of its size elbow room is at a premium. This becomes obvious with a drink bottle in the centre cupholder betweenthefrontseats,whichmakesforan awkward combination with the hand brake anddriver’selbow.

Believe it or not ZR even gets head-up display, but of course you can’t see it with polarisedsunglasses.

We discovered this by chance when we happened to tilt our head sideways. Until thenithadremainedinvisible.

With a 36-litre tank, Yaris takes standard 91 RON unleaded, with fuel consumption a claimed3.3L/100km.

We didn’t quite achieve this figure, but 800km at a rate of 4.0L/100km is fairly impressive.

Norangeanxietyhere.

Summing up

Yaris ZR certainly packs a lot into its tiny frame.

It’sattractive,wellequipped,doesnotuse muchfuelanddoesn’tcostmuchtobuy. Ifyou’rejustlookingforsomethingtorun aroundtownin,whatmorecouldyouneed?

Flat Cats keen to reload

By Roger Vaughan & Anna Harrington, AAP

“Bitterly disappointed” Geelong coach Chris Scott has issued a call to arms, pointing to their AFL consistency and urging the Cats to challenge again next season.

Scott admitted he would rather have wallowed in bed than turn up for Sunday morning’s club family day, the day after Brisbane smashed his team in the second half for a 47-point grand final win.

While the Cats were left lamenting an opportunity lost, they have finished outside the finals only three times in the past two decades.

In that time they have won four premierships - only Brisbane have won more this century.

“We’ve had plenty of forks in the road, if you like, over the last decade or two. There was the possibility that we turn up our toes and go through a bit of a rebuilding process, and accept the best was behind us,” Scott told Geelong fans.

“We’re just not prepared to concede that - and it’s pretty safe to say I speak for everyone when I say we’re not prepared to concede now, either.

“We’re bitterly disappointed. In this

game, sometimes all you can ask for is to giveyourselfachance.Ourplayersandour club did that for us this year.

“It didn’t work out yesterday, but even when we reflect on the last 12 months, it wasn’t as if everything went our way. There were plenty of challenges that we were good enough to overcome.”

Scott added his emotions had been “up and down” over the previous 24 hours, but he is up for the fight.

“Even though it feels so raw now - it normally takes me a little bit longer than this - but I feel ... I’m ready for the work, to

give ourselves a chance again next year,” he said.

Scott also praised the club’s unity and urged the Geelong faithful to keep sticking with them.

“Inmomentslikethese,thetemptationis tofocusonthethingsthatwedidn’tdowell. Atleastinternally,I’mjustsoconfidentthat everyone has each other’s back,” he said.

“You’re better than I am. If I had my way, orinaweakmoment,I’dstillbeinbedwith the doona pulled over my head.

“Even when we frustrate you, stick with us. We really appreciate it.”

Geelong will reportedly try to lure CarltonkeyforwardCharlieCurnowandSt Kilda ruck-forward Rowan Marshall in the upcoming trade period.

Coleman Medallist Jeremy Cameron missed Sunday morning’s function - he was in hospital for tests after fracturing his right forearm in the grand final.

He suffered the injury in a collision with captain Patrick Dangerfield, who likewise told Geelong fans that their team would rally from Saturday’s bitter loss.

“It’s tough and it will ferment over the summer period, but those tough periods are the reason it’s all worth it when you get it right. It’s why it means so much,” he said.

Heads prevail over Springs for round 9 tennis

LOCAL TENNIS

It was Round 9 for Section 6 of Tuesday Women’s and while the sun decided to peak out, there was still the threat of rain, andtheever-presentwindtocontendwith.

Barwon Heads played host to Clifton Springs on a windy morning that fortunately produced no rain.

As the sun broke through, the players warmed up and were back to T-shirts with the spring weather.

The tennis was competitive with the Springs pushing the ladder leaders with 7-5 and 6-4 losses, but the home team was too strong taking a 5-1 win with Geri Windsor and Christine Smith the only pair to crack the scoreboard for the Springs.

Sue Cole and Maura Sweet won their three sets for the Heads.

Second placed Moolap hosted bottom of the table Wandana Heights Blue in what looked like a one-sided match with a 6-0 result, but Wandana were competitive in every set.

Cathy Juffermans and Sonja Mol pushed ahead in the second set to go up a break 3-1, but Moolap’s Dolores Barrow and Mel Eedy fought back to win a tough tie-break.

The team of Barrow, Eedy, Kirsty Matthews and Belinda Atkins proved too strongwiththewinputtingthemonepoint closer to ladder leaders Barwon Heads.

The final match of the day saw Wandana HeightsGreenandNewcombinapotential playoffforthirdspotwithWandanaahead by six points.

Jenny Glascott and Marley Lycett got Newcomb off to a good start with a 6-1 win whileGlenysRobersonandMonikaLoving keptitclosewitha6-4victorytoWandana.

Glascott teamed with Tracey Lycett in the third set to take a comfortable 6-1 win while Loving and Louise Hogan kept Wandanaintouchwithawininatie-break.

The final two sets were a battle with Glascott winning her third set for the day against Jodie Walters in a tough 7-5 while Lycett and Lycett rounded out the win for Newcomb with a 6-4 victory in the last. Newcomb with a 4-2 win closing the gap on third to just two points.

After the game, Dangerfield had said Geelong would have to “sit in” the disappointment of their grand final capitulation and then ensure they don’t let it hold them back.

“Thehardpartisthere’snoguaranteesin any given season,” he said. “It’s everyone that starts again from the blocks, and just because you’ve had a reasonable season one year, there are no guarantees the next.

“So I think it’s important that you sit in it for a little bit, that as difficult as it may be, together this piece is really important.”

This year, Sydney slumped after their horror 10-goal loss to Brisbane in the 2024 grand final.

Dangerfield conceded the disappointment could hang over the team - but it was worth it to consistently be in contention.

“Look, I think it’s going to hang around regardless,” he said. “That’s the feeling you get when you make it to the last day of September and you don’t quite get there.”

Dangerfield was adamant there wasn’t toomuchGeelong,whofinishedsecondon the ladder, needed to tweak.

“When you make it this far and then you don’t quite execute, you don’t need to throw everything away,” he said.

Dangerfield not making excuses

By Anna Harrington, AAP

Geelong captain Patrick Dangerfield hasnoexcusesforhowheorhisteam performed after the Cats slipped to a 47-point AFL grand final loss to the Brisbane Lions.

Dangerfield was at his brilliant best in the preliminary final victory over Hawthorn but was blanketed by Brandon Starcevich in the decider and had little influence.

Dangerfield, who had just 10 disposalsandnogoals,brushedaway a question regarding whether he was 100 per cent fit.

“No, it’s a ruthless game. So there’s no excuses from me or anyone,” Dangerfield said.

“We just couldn’t quite get it done.”

Geelong went into the game without Tom Stewart (concussion) while coach Chris Scott alluded to “obstacles” his team had faced this year without going into details.

Spearhead Jeremy Cameron, held goalless by Darcy Gardiner, suffered a broken right arm in a collision with Dangerfield in the second term and played through it in distress.

“He looks pretty sore. He’s obviously an important player for us, anditwasabighit,”Dangerfieldsaid.

Scott admitted the Cats had struggled with the decision of whether to substitute Cameron, who laid an incredible one-handed tackleonJaspaFletchertosetupMax Holmes’ goal in the third term.

That appeared to aggravate the existing injury, but Geelong ultimately instead substituted Rhys Stanley ahead of Cameron, who had his arm in a sling post-match.

“Intheheatofthemoment,it’shard to work out: is it a crack? Is it a decent break? Can he play? Can’t he? And that took a long time to work out,” Scott said. But obviously, yeah, he was heavily limited from late in that second quarter.”

B&F:

Runner-up: Zanna

Coaches award: Gemma Bell

Players MVP: Amanda O’Malley

SENIORS

B&F: Jamison Hallam

Runner-up: Josh Lange

Coaches award: Joe McDonald

Players MVP: Rhys Devlin

D GRADE

B&F: Mackenzie Bellinger

Runner-up: Caitlin Barbante

Coaches

Players

B GRADE

B&F: Jesse Sutton

Runner-up: Claudia Britt

Coaches award: Ella Brown

Players MVP: Claudia Britt

Bell, Hallam

top of the polls

Gemma Bell completed a stunning debut A Grade season to win Ocean Grove’s best and fairest while young defender Jamison Hallam was crowned senior footy B&F.

Bell, who came into the side this season, had a breakout season at wing defence and goaldefencewhileHallambeliedhistender years with an eye-catching year.

Zanna Woods was runner-up in the A Grade netball award while tough onballer Josh Lange completed another consistent year with a runner-up placing in the footy medal.

Bell won the Candice Parker Medal in a premiership season while Hallam walked away with the Damian Clark Medal. Both are one of the competition’s young guns their respective leagues.

E GRADE

B&F: Mia Haritos

Runner-up: Annabelle Sargeant

Coaches award: Ruby Hildebrandt

Players MVP: Emma Barry

C GRADE

B&F: Sofia Dickinson

Runner-up: Mel Holmes

Coaches award: Amelia Hallam

Players MVP: Sofia Dickinson

RESERVES

B&F: Bryn D’Arcy

Runner-up: Zane Kneebone

Coaches award: Matt Brennan

Players MVP: Sam Charville

19 & UNDER

B&F: Olivia Grogan

Runner-up: Matilda Bish

Coaches award: Georgia Maier

Players MVP: Matilda Bish

Exciting challenge

By Justin Flynn

Rather than dwell on being relegated to A2 Grade, Ocean Grove captain Fletcher Long sees it as an “exciting challenge” ahead of Saturday’s Bellarine Peninsula Cricket Association opener against Winchelsea.

The Grubbers were demoted from A1 Grade after finishing bottom last season, but Long believes it will give the club a chance to rebuild.

“We’re seeing it more as an exciting challenge rather than doom and gloom having to go down,” he said.

“I think it’s a chance to rebuild and really create a style of cricket that we want to play and hopefully, even if it’s not this season,inthenextcomingseasons,builda sustainable brand of cricket that we can go up and stay up.

“We don’t really want to be that team that goes back and forth. We want to build a brand of cricket that’s sustainable in A1 so we can, once we’re up, stay there and compete.”

The good news for Grove is that

all-rounder Zac Jones is returning from the UK for his second stint at Ray Menzies Oval.

Top-order bat Campbell Snookes has committed for a full season and Connor Weidemann will add genuine ability with bat and ball while Mitch Vandermeer will provide value with what Long described as “skiddy medium pacers”.

With Jones and Weidemann as new-ball options, Long is hoping his attack can make early inroads into the opposition’s batting this summer.

“I think that was an area that we kind of struggled with last year was taking early wickets,” he said. “We were always behind the eight ball. Teams would often get off to aprettygoodstartwiththebatandthenwe relied on (spinner) Alex (Mann) to get us back in the game.

“But I think this year with a few more bowling options at the front, we can hopefully get off to good starts and Alex can be bowling at the batters six, seven, eight rather than relying on him to get the openers or the top three out.”

Cobras hoping for youth to push through

By Justin Flynn

Collendina will be banking on its senior brigade and the natural progression of youth in this season’s Bellarine Peninsula Cricket Association A2 Grade competition. While the Cobras haven’t had any major additions to their squad, they haven’t lost anyone either and with the likes of Corey Walter, Stan Grazotis, Nathan Frye and Jacob Gasior, can be a major player for the premiership.

Add the likes of Harrisyn Wingrave, who had a breakout season with the bat, including a double century, seamer Gus Peters and new-ball bowler Byron Hansford and Collendina can rightly feel confident about its chances.

“We’ll be pretty similar - we haven’t reallylostanyoneorhaven’tpickedanyone up, but hopefully the kids get a bit older

again and a couple of them come on a bit,” coach Corey Walter said.

“I think Aidan Foard and Ollie Terhorst, Gus Peters - all these guys played ones the year before and were in and out of the side lastyear.Sohopefullyacoupleofthemcan take the next step.”

Hansford came into the 1st XI towards the back end of last season and made an immediate impact with the ball.

Walter’s ability to bowl some overs of seam was impacted by elbow surgery just before the Christmas break, but said he will probably be rolling the arm over, particularly in the one-dayers. Spinners Grazotis and Gasior will bowl plenty of overs in 75-over cricket.

“I’ll be right to bowl a bit more this year, especially in the early games,” Walter said.

“We’ve got two pretty handy spinners, but obviously (we need to use) five bowlers

Wallabies looking to go one better

By Justin Flynn

Wallington will be looking to go one better than last season’s Bellarine Peninsula Cricket Association A2 Graderunner-upplacingasitprepares to host Collendina in the opening roundonSaturday.

Billy Gravett is returning from the UK for his second season with the Wallabies although James Sood and Adam Southorn won’t make the trip thissummer.

However, captain Mitch Sleeman believes the club has replaced the duo “like for like” with English pair Jack Davies (keeper-batter) and Max Roxburgh(all-rounder).

“Jack’s shown some very good gloveworksofar,”hesaid.

“He’s kept up the stumps to most of our bowlers, obviously with the exception of Billy (Gravett) and he’s looking pretty clean with the gloves at thestartoftheyear.

“We didn’t know much about his batting ability, but he’s surprised everyone in the nets so I think he’ll probablybatinthetopsix.

“Max will probably bat mid to lower order. He’s probably more of a dasher where Jack’s probably a little bit more techniquewise.”

Shaun Biemans returns after a stint inthelowergradeswithSouthBarwon to bolster an attack led by paceman Gravett, Colin Smith, Sleeman and DaneWise-Graham.

“Both Colin and I are more than capable of bowling into the wind,” Sleeman said. “So whether we pick Shaun to be first-change to bowl with Billy or whether he wants to have the new rock and learn to bowl into the wind, that’s a discussion I’ll need to havebeforetheseasonstarts.”

Henry McIntosh, Sven Burluraux, Wise-Graham and recruit Richard Faust will be the mainstays at the top ofthebattingorder.

“The boys are pretty excited,” Sleeman said. “We’ve had a couple of practice matches against Newcomb (& District), where we put a mixture oftheAandtheBgradeguystogether, and had a pretty good hit out against Bell Post Hill, which pretty much the whole A grade squad was available for.”

Meanwhile the club rallied around coach Matt Sampson-Barnes with a fundraiserpracticematchagainstBell PostHillonSeptember26.

Sampson-Barnes has been battling necrotising fasciitis (NF), a rare and serious bacterial infection that came on without warning and has undergone 43 surgeries and spent morethan100daysinhospital.

in the one dayers, so I might have to bowl a bit early on.

“Stan doesn’t go for many runs and Gaz can take you a wicket. They’re two really good bowlers, so they’re good for us in the two-dayers.”

While Walter is coming off a 764-run season at an average of 109.14, Gasior’s promotion to open the batting towards the end of last season yielded scores of 51, 49 and 29 at a run a ball.

“He’s probably one that’s got to find that right tempo, like a few of the other guys,” Walter said. “You don’t have to hit every ballforfour,youjustfindtherightbalance, but once we moved him up to the top last year he was really good for us.”

Young quick Zach Muir got a taste of A Grade cricket last season and didn’t look at all out of place and will be in the mix come selection.

To help Matt, his wife Jess and children Billie and Alby with soaring medical bills, head to gofundme. com/f/matt-jess-family-support

Proud coach lauds young team

By Justin Flynn

Ocean Grove Under 18 Division 1 coach

Damian Clark said the level of respect he has for his young team was “off the charts” after a season that yielded three consecutive finals wins before finishing runner-up.

While the Grubbers fell at the final hurdle to South Barwon in the grand final, the progression of the team augurs well for the senior side in the coming years.

Clark, who has the senior club best and fairest named after him and is arguably Ocean Grove’s best ever player, said his group made coaching easy.

“I know everyone calls their group a great group of kids, but I can tell you now, I’ve been in footy a hell of a long time and I have never in all my life seen a group, two age groups, of 16-, 17- and 18 year olds so connected,” he said. “They’re such good mates, worked together so well, gelled together so well, looked out for each other, bonded so brilliantly.

“I’m still almost speechless as to how good a group of kids these two year levels are.”

While Ocean Grove hasn’t enjoyed senior success for a while, the club’s junior pathway is paying off.

“It’s a massive achievement for us, but I think it just shows you how good our junior program is,” Clark said.

“And how much we want to invest in it and just keep working towards what we want.”

While South Barwon was too good on grandfinalday,winningby77points,Clark

said the big occasion at GMHBA Stadium was a terrific experience.

“We’re not going to take anything away from South Barwon, they’re a bloody good side,” he said.

“They had a massive complement of players to choose from - APS, Falcons.

“It’s a wonderful brand of footy and wonderful competition to be involved in. You’re dealing with the best players in Geelong and surrounding areas and the biggest clubs, the best clubs.”

Darcy Harrington and Jack Thomspon were injured most of the season, but still showeduptogamestosupport.Harrington stayed involved by assisting on the bench.

Falcons’captainBenCootedidtheboard most weeks, Ned Badrock was always involved while Tom Teague played seven games, but then got picked for the Falcons andtheseniors,whichmadehimineligible for finals.

“They were there every week, that’s how tight the group is,” Clark said.

“They are a really tight group with plenty oftalent.Idon’tseewhythefootyclubcan’t take some massive steps over the next year or two.”

Cricketers to waste no time hitting stride

By Justin Flynn

Local cricket will waste no time in getting started with Bellarine Peninsula Cricket AssociationtobeginitsseasonthisSaturday.

Last season’s A1 Grade premiers Armstrong Creek will host Anglesea on the openingdayonOctober4.

The Titans have lost the best batter in the competition, Clay Mulgrew, to South Barwon while keeper Aaron Morgan and left-armswingbowlerJasonRobertsonhave joinedNewcomb&District.

Armstrong Creek will welcome hard-hitting batter Nikhil Kapoor from Tasmania while Daniel Maclean will again beatthehelm.

Runners-up Barwon Heads have lured former players Lewy Hyland and Sam SchallerbacktoRTFullerOval.

AngleseahaslostWillandOllieHubyand star spinner Tom Beasley to Grovedale, but gun bat Sam Weight returns from a stint in Sydney and Kai Powers has been enticed fromJanJuc.

JanJucwillbeledbyGarethYellandwhile newlypromotedInverleighhasretainedthe nucleusofastrongsquad.

Drysdale welcomes back 2023-24

premiership coach Robert Cutajar while batting all-rounder Owen Dunn will be a Hawkin2025-26.

Barrabool will be strengthened by the returnofstarbatBrydonBarnettafterayear intheUKandAaronPickering.

Queenscliff’s bowling attack has been boosted by the recruitments of quick Dan Hawker and left-armer Max Minney. HaydenIllingworthwillbeskipper.

In A2 Grade, Ocean Grove will welcome all-rounder Connor Weidemann, batter Campbell Snookes and seamer Mitch Vandermeer.

Wallington has lost Englishmen Adam SouthornandJamesSood,buthavereplaced them with Max Roxburgh and keeper-bat JackDavieswhilepacemanBillyGravetthas returnedfromtheUK.

Collendina remained quiet on the recruiting front, but any side with Corey Walter, Stan Grazotis and Nathan Frye will behardtobeat.

Winchelsea has recruited strongly with Shane Scott coming from the UK, Angus Leigh returns after stints at South Barwon andApolloBayandbatterTharinduBandara from Casey Cardinia. Lakshay Sharotri will add stability to the batting order and Jarrod

Captain Lachie Morrow battled injury concerns for a large chunk of the season. A badanklesprainkepthimoutofthegrading matches and then he hyperextended his knee and had debilitating bone bruising.

Morrow echoed Clark’s thoughts about the tight knit group.

“We’ve been such a tight group for the lastthree,fouryears,becauseweobviously won a premiership in 2023,” he said.

“And I think 20 boys from the team we had on Friday playing in the grand final have played in a grand final in the last couple of years before that.

“We’re all really close mates hanging out witheachotherontheweekendandIthink that’s like a huge thing for a footy team.

“The senior boys as well, they’re always getting around us, always planning things. A few weeks ago, we had a barbecue with all the senior boys, the 22-year-olds and under, just to get to know each other and spend some time with them.

“All the boys that are moving up next year are definitely ready for bigger bodies and better footy, and I think being so close to each other, we’re all pretty ready for that next step up.”

Best and fairests crowned

All Bellarine Football Netball League best and fairest counts have been held.

Here is a list of all winners and runners-up from senior footy and A Grade netball for all 10 clubs.

FOOTBALL

Anglesea: winner Jordan Keras, runner-up Ike Hardman. Barwon Heads: winner Damian McMahon, runner-up Luke Davis. Drysdale: winner Ben Fennell, runner-up Jack Jenkins.

Geelong Amateur: winner Tom Gribble, runner up Dan Weigl. Modewarre: winner Morgan Fenton, runner-up Oscar Cooke. Newcomb: winner Dion Johnstone, runner-up Tom Webster.

Ocean Grove: winner Jamison Hallam, runner-up Josh Lange. Portarlington: winner Scott Greenhough, runner-up Teia Miles. Queenscliff: winner Che Durran, runner-up Lachie Kidd.

Groves has crossed from Alvie where he made 1465 runs and took 71 wickets across two seasons. Shane Currie took 60 wickets across two seasons in Colac and District CricketAssociationinanothercoup.

Portarlington has picked up Jack Baldi fromGeelong.

St Leonards has been busy with Drysdale duo Shane Cutajar and Nick Hallam lured to Len Trewin Reserve along with Jaco Stewart from South Africa, fast bowler Nisal Deelaka and Liam and Chris Hassan to join brother Paul. The club also announced the signing of quickie Seb Harrison from England and hard-hitting opener Troy Griffinreturns.

Lachie Campbell has made the move to Surf Coast from St Leonards as has Brayden Lieschke, a left-arm bowler who won eight consecutive flags with Rand in Albury-Wodonga.

Newcomb will be led by former Modewarre spinner Dylan Ryan captain alongwithShaneHealey.

Jordan Hickey had a year off last season andarrivesatErvinReservefromNewcomb & District and spinner from Moddewarre and Thisum Subasinghe strengthens the batting.

Torquay: winner Ben McNamara, runner-up Matt Boag.

NETBALL

Anglesea: winner Ariana Laumana, runner-up Hannah Barry-Murphy. Barwon Heads: winner Racquel Scott, runner-up Chelsea Baker. Drysdale: winner Mia Fallon, runner-up Olivia Young.

Geelong Amateur: winner Keisha Guilmartin, runner-up Georgia Duncan.

Modewarre: winner Grace Hunt, runner-up Kelley Cox.

Newcomb: winner Jessica Duke, runner-up Carly Sanders.

Ocean Grove: winner Gemma Bell, runner-up Zanna Woods.

Portarlington: winner Laura Robinson, runner-up Mikayla Mevissen.

Queenscliff: winner Ebony Rolph, runner-up Alex Booker.

Torquay: winner Kiralee Collings, runner-up Sarah Butler.