Geelong Indy - 6th February 2026

Lara pulls teams from GFL

One of the region’s oldest football clubs will not field senior teams in the Geelong FootballLeaguethisyear.

After a meeting with AFL Barwon on Monday night, Lara Football announced on Tuesday that its senior and reserves men’s football teams would be withdrawn for the 2026 season due to a shortage of players.

Inapublicstatementtheclubexpressed its “deep regret” on what had been a “difficultdecision,madeintheinterestsof the long-term strength and sustainability oftheclub”.

“While this is a setback, it also provides anopportunitytofocusonrebuildingand strengthening our foundations,” the club said.

“Our commitment to our Senior Women’s Football, Under 18, Junior and Netball programs remains unwavering and they will continue as planned. These areas will continue to be a key focus as we invest in participation, player development,andastrongclubculturefor thefuture.

“We encourage all club followers to support each of our active teams, both football and netball, across the 2026 season.

“We sincerely thank everyone for their understanding and ongoing support duringthistransitionalperiod.”

AFL Barwon has granted Lara an exemption to its by-law requiring clubs field teams in senior and reserve football grades,aswellasallnetballgradesfromA Gradedownward.

AFL Barwon chair Ashley West said the decisionwasnottakenlightly.

“AFL Barwon appreciates the gravity of the decision made by the Lara Sporting Clubthisevening”,hesaid.

“It is an extremely unenviable position for any club, and we acknowledge the careful decision-making process, which considered the broader impacts on the league.

Local football and netball are stronger with a sustainable and competitive Lara - Ashley West

“We remain optimistic that, through strong junior participation in both football and netball, along with recent consolidation in senior netball and senior femalefootball,Laracanreboundstrongly from the current senior men’s football challenges.AFLBarwonisfullycommitted to working with the Lara Sporting Club to rebuildwhatisavitalgrowthcorridorand an important sporting community and social connection point for the town and region.

“Local football and netball are stronger withasustainableandcompetitiveLara.”

Being feeding tube aware

By Jena Carr

Geelong toddler Alfie lives with a genetic disorder resulting in him needing a feeding tube, with Feeding Tube Awareness Week occurring this week.

The two-and-a-half-year-old was born premature and developed an undiagnosed disorder that mimics cerebral palsy.

Mum Jessica Willder said Alfie has

had a feeding tube for about 12 months as he had trouble eating and drinking.

“What he doesn’t drink orally goes down his tube, which some days could be all of it and other days could be half or a quarter of it,” she said.

“AFL Barwon also acknowledges the dedication of Lara FNC officials, volunteers and members, who contribute significantlytotheirclubandcommunity. We remain committed to working closely withtheLaraFNCExecutivetosupportthe club during this challenging period and assistinbuildingasustainablefuture.”  Continued: Page 3.

“His feeding tube goes down the nose and the back of his throat into his stomach, which has to be replaced every two to three months.

Builder’s past catches up

A fraudster has received his comeuppance more than eight years after ripping off a Geelong resident.

The Building and Plumbing Commission (BPC) has successfully prosecuted unregistered builder Jared Milic, who was fined more than $77,000 after being found guilty of charges relating to work done at two sites.

MrMilic,whohadallegedlybeenactively avoiding authorities since he was ordered by VCAT to pay more than $26,000 to the Geelong homeowner in 2017, was arrested after being pulled over by Victoria Police for speeding near Portland in June last

year. The court heard Mr Milic had entered into a contract with the homeowner to partially demolish and remove a house in Brunswick and relocate it to a North Geelong site, which always requires a permit and other specific requirements.

However, once the client realised Mr Milic was unregistered, uninsured and had failed to obtain a permit for either site, he terminated the contract.

ThehomeownertookthemattertoVCAT, which ordered Mr Milic to pay more than $26,000 in damages.

Mr Milic breached bail conditions

multiple times by not turning up to court for hearings regarding six offences under the Building Act and Domestic Building Contracts Act and to date has not paid any of the damages to the homeowner.

Magistrate Brett Sonnett described Mr Milic’s offences as “grave in nature” and at the “highest end of the spectrum”.

BPC commissioner and chief executive Anna Cronin said the conviction sent a “strong message to those who continue to work illegally”.

“There’s a new smarter regulator in town doing everything we can to stop you,” she said.

Calling all playwrights for short play fest

Geelong’s newest creative arts festival is open for submissions for its second year.

Following the success of its inaugural instalment,theGeelongShortPlayFestival has put the call out to all playwrights to submit original 15-minute plays for its second edition this August.

SubmissionsareopentoGeelongWriters members, as well as anyone living in Geelong, the Bellarine Peninsula, Surf Coast Shire, Colac and Golden Plains.

Writers may submit up to two plays on any theme, with scripts limited to five characters and designed for minimal staging.

Submitted works will be considered by a panel of experienced judges, with six plays to be shortlisted for performances by local theatre companies at Geelong Arts Centre in August.

With last year’s festival drawing more than 300 attendees over three sessions, festival coordinator Paul Bucci said he was looking forward to the second year of the event.

“We learned a great deal from staging the inaugural festival, and we’re planning an even stronger event the second time around,” he said.

“We want Geelong to punch above its

weight creatively. So, to all the writers out there, it’s time for take two.”

Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj praised the festival’s 2025 debut for captivating audiences and showcasing local theatre, saying the plays “revealed the tremendous talent of some of our most gifted playwrightsandactors…withminimalsets but maximum imagination”.

Submissions are open until Sunday 15 March.Visitgeelongwriters.org.auoremail geelongwriters@gmail.comforsubmission guidelines and entry forms or call festival coordinator Paul Bucci at paulbucci@live. com.au or on 0428 326 012.

“Building or renovating a home is a huge investment and consumers need to make sure they are protected by ensuring they hire registered builders.”

“Our new powers coming into effect later this year will significantly improve consumer protection but they will only be effective in getting your building fixed if your builder is registered.”

The BPC reminded consumers to always use a registered builder and a registered or licensed plumber. Visit vba.vic.gov.au/tools/find-practitioner to check if your builder or plumber is registered.

Registrations are now open for a Geelong motorcycle event that encourages conversations about depression and suicide prevention.

Black Dog Ride’s ‘One Dayer’ will feature a motorcycle ride that kicks off from Geelong Showgrounds on March 15.

Geelong Black Dog Ride coordinatorMarie(Gremlin)Grima said she looked forward to seeing people from across Geelong come together to help make a difference.

“We know first-hand that when community members, volunteers, clubs and businesses unite behind a shared cause, the ripple effect can be felt right across the country,” she said.

“It’s about connection, compassion and showing that no one has to face their struggles alone...andeachyear,theBlackDog Ride One Dayer reminds us that meaningful change starts at a local level.

“By raising awareness and vital funds that go directly back into regional communities, we’re helping to close the gap where mental health services and free support are still out of reach for so many Australians.”

More than 6000 people from across the country participated in lastyear’sevent,whichhelpedraise over $300,000 to support mental health and suicide prevention.

Mostofthemoneyraisedthrough the One Dayer ride will support regional and rural areas where access to mental health services and free support is limited through the Black Dog Ride Grant Program. Visit 123tix.com.au/ events/50734/geelong-vic-blackdog-ride-1-dayer-2026 for more information and to register for the event or blackdogride.org.au/view/ donate to make a donation.

Geelong lights up purple during Feeding Tube Awareness Week

 From page 1.

“Then with all the tape on his face, we have to change it whenever it starts to come off, which could be every couple of days or once a week if we’re lucky.

“It’s rather traumatic as we have to wrap him up so that he can’t get his hands on the feeding tubes and pull them out while we’re changing all his tape.

“It takes me, my husband, and then my two daughters to help hold him still and

get all the tape off and put more tape back on to keep the tube in place.”

Geelong’s Catenary Lighting will continue to light up purple until Saturday 7 February to raise awareness of tube feeding for the annual Feeding Tube Awareness Week.

ManylocationacrossAustraliaandNew Zealand light up blue and purple for the week, which is held by charity ausEE.

“Purple is a common colour of feeding tube supplies, while blue represents what

flows through the tube; whether that’s formula, blended foods, breastmilk, or water,” chief executive Sarah Gray said.

Ms Willder said it was important for people to know that they were not alone and encouraged people to reach out to others.

“It shouldn’t be a taboo subject...and it shouldn’t be something that people stare at or make assumptions about,” she said.

“You take each day as it comes, and each day will be slightly different, but it

can help to link in with other parents who have that experience.

“The number of times that I have been asked what sort of cancer my child has has been a lot, but he doesn’t have cancer.

“Most people think feeding tubes are for people that have cancer...and there are so many other reasons why people need feeding tubes.”

Visit feedingtubeaware.com.au for more information and support networks.

Zac’s film success

By Jena Carr

AWaurnPondsteenagerhaswonanaward and had his film shown at the Sydney Opera House.

Zac Deren’s film ‘They Call Me BART’ was one of 11 films from filmmakers aged 18 and under from across the world to receive Smart Fone Flick Fest (SF3) Kids awards.

The15-year-oldwontheSF3andBlackmagic Cam Award (High School) and said that seeing his film at the Sydney Opera House was a dream he never thought would come true.

“I was completely shocked as I had no

idea that I was going to get it (the award), and it was just such an honour,” Zac said.

“Seeing it on the screen and seeing everyone else’s film on the screen too, and their reactions to my film and their own films afterwards were so great.

“I loved seeing how the film came together in the end, because when I’m filming,youdon’tknowhowthefilmisgoingto end up, but once you’ve edited it, it seems so different to how you expected it to be.”

Zac’s film follows the story of Bartholomew, a teenage boy who lives in a magnificentmansionandishomeschooled byhisfather,untilonedayhedecidestoattend high school.

The film follows the character as he embarks on this new adventure of change and friendships, while also having to navigate high school as a teenage vampire.

“I love making films, and it’s fun to hang out with friends and be able to make a film with them, so that’s just a good memory I have when watching the film,” Zac said.

“My whole life, I’ve been told that my skin is very light and I always look pale, so I decided to go along with that and make a film about me being a vampire.”

SF3 received close to 450 entries for its many film award categories from filmmakers of all ages from all over Australia and internationally during the film’s 11th year.

Highlight your Local Legends

It’s time to recognise and honour people who go above and beyond for their community, with nominations open for Local Legends Awards.

Surf Coast Shire Council’s program looks to celebrate individuals and groups making positive differences in the community as volunteers, organisation leaders, change-makers, or innovators.

Councillor Joel Grist encouraged people to “Nominate a Local Legend and help recognise their invaluable contribution to community life.”

“They share their energy, skills, passions and inspiration, helping to make Surf Coast Shire a better place and help power organisations doing truly meaningful work. I’m sure many of us know these people who makesuchsignificantcontributions to our community with so little fuss, giving up that precious thing; their own time, for the good of others.” Award categories include community commitment and community impact for individuals and community inclusion and volunteer excellence for groups.

Nominations will remain open until 15 March, and Local Legends will be named and celebrated during a council event marking National Volunteer Week in May and this year’s theme of ‘Your Year To Volunteer’.

Waste burning ‘backflip’

By Matt Hewson

Community organisation No Waste Incinerators in Lara & Greater Geelong Incorporated has voiced disappointment at the City of Greater Geelong’s recent report onwastemanagement.

Tabled at the council’s December meeting,thereportstatedtheCity“doesnot currently support an incineration Energy from Waste facility”, but would request a “further report not later than December 2026 that further explores Energy from Wastefacilities”.

The report, and councillors at the Decembermeeting,drewacleardistinction betweenincinerationandotherenergyfrom

waste technologies such as gasification, pyrolysisandbio-digestion.

No Waste Incinerators secretary and science advisor Charles Street, a leading voice in opposition to the proposed Lara incinerator, referred to the report as “a completeabout-face”.

“We’re really dark on the council for having prepared a secret report…(where) the council has declared its rejection of waste incineration but effectively approved waste gasification and waste pyrolysis,” he said.

“What prompted them to do this? They say they’re being guided by the state government-they’vebeentoldwhattodo… they haven’t been asking many questions,

Geelong shines rainbow

Communitymemberswillcelebrateallthe colours of the rainbow in a safe and funfilled space during the Geelong Rainbow Festival.

Johnstone Park will host live performances, community services, group stalls, food trucks and activities during the free festival aimed at celebrating the diversityanduniquenessoftheLGBTQIA+ community.

Geelong Rainbow president and transwoman Audrey Stringer said the festival would provide a colourful celebration for thequeercommunityanditsallies.

“We just want to provide a really safe spaceforourbeautifulcommunitytocome andhaveagreattime,”shesaid.

“It’s insanely crucial to have these events, especially in Geelong, because we havealotofpeoplehere...andwejustwant to show love, kindness and respect for our community.

“I’m looking forward to seeing all the queer joy happening around the region whileexperiencingitformyselfaswell.”

The festival will begin on 6 February with a Pride Launch Party, followed by a Pride Rally and the Geelong Rainbow Festival on 7 February, before concluding withaVicPrideStreetPartyon8February.

Geelong Rainbow’s Mag Gratwick, Mariah Courtis, Ruthe Geller, Claire Elder and Audrey Stringer. (Ivan Kemp) 531681_07

because they don’t know what questions to ask.

“Theleastwewouldhaveexpectedisthat itwouldhavebeenreleasedtothepublicfor discussion.”

The City’s executive director of city infrastructure Amanda Locke denied the councilhadchangeditsposition.

“Our role is to operate within the Victorian Government’s legislation on energyfromwaste,andthereportpresented to council in December acknowledges that framework,”shesaid.

“What we’ve done is formally restate council’s position: we do not support the development of incineration-based energy fromwastefacilitiesinGreaterGeelong.

“The report does not propose any current changes to our policies or how we operate, so there’s no impact on residents or stakeholders that requires consultation.”

Mr Street said there was no effective difference between incineration and other burning techniques like gasification and pyrolysis.

“You can’t say ‘we’re against waste incineration but we will allow waste gasification or pyrolysis’; they’re the same,” hesaid.

“Theystillhaveemissionstoair,theystill have ash, they still emit greenhouse gases. In terms of environmental and health impacts,wedon’tseeanydifference.”

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Olympic flag honour

By Melissa Woods, AAP

DefendingOlympicchampionandBarwon Heads resident Jakara Anthony says she’s “over the moon“ to share Australia’s flag bearer duties with fellow moguls star Matt Graham. For the first time two athletes from the same sport have been chosen to lead the Australian team at a Winter Olympics opening ceremony.

The team announcement was made on Wednesday morning, two days out from the main opening ceremony at Milan’s San Siro Olympic Stadium.

Thepairwereindividuallyaskedbyteam chef de mission Alisa Camplin about a month ago but had to keep it under wraps despite training alongside daily each other in the lead up to the Games.

“Having two moguls flag bearers, it’s the first time there’s two from one sport so we’re over the moon,” said Anthony, who willdefendthemogulsgoldmedalshewon four years ago in Beijing.

“It’s really special to share it with MattI’ve always looked up to him.”

Anthony said it was special to mark another milestone with 31-year-old Graham, who won silver at the 2018 Olympics.

“I got to share a lot of milestones of Matt’s career, including winning silver in PyeongChang and get his first (crystal) globe,” said the Victorian product.

“I’vebeenabletosharethetopstepofthe podium with him a couple times now and now we get to share this one so we’re really racking up the milestones together.”

In an historic first the opening event will be spread across four locations with the star duo to lead the Australian contingent

marching in Livigno, a northern Italian town in the alps near the Swiss border.

Competing at her third Games, 27-year-old Anthony will look to become the first Australian to successfully defend a Winter Olympic title while Graham is representing for the fourth time.

Camplin announced the popular pair at aceremonyinLivigno,sayingAnthonywas

an inspiration to many young athletes.

“Jakara is in a league of her ownrole model, Olympic champion and a young Australian who sets her sights on something and doesn’t give up. I am so proud to name her flag bearer,” Camplin said. “There are athletes in our team who saw Jakara win gold in Beijing, and it sparked their Olympic dreams.”

Painting the region’s trail

Artists can show off their brush strokes, printsandworksacrossarangeofmediums duringthisyear’sSurfCoastArtsTrail.

Registrations are open until 30 March for artists, makers and venue organisers to participate in the trail to showcase their creativeprocess.

Surf Coast Shire councillor Mike Bodsworth said last year’s trail featured more than 200 artists across 56 venues throughouttheregion.

“Morethan15,000peopleadmiredworks, shared artists’ inspiration and generated morethan$210,000insales,”hesaid.

“Our much-loved Trail is turning 15 in

A stitch of kindness

A Clifton Springs family support charity is extremely grateful after receiving a generous donation from a Bellarine quiltinggroup.

Barwon Heads’ Seachange Quilters donated $900 to Wombat’s Wish, which will help support kids and families following the death of a parent or caregiver.

Wombat’s Wish community engagement officer Suzy Coad said it was “incredibly heart-warming and very humbling” to receive the donation.

“The donation will directly help us continue providing free grief support to children and families who have lost a parent or caregiver,” she said.

“Funds like this help cover the costs of our programs, resources and family days, which ensure families can access support when they need it most, without any financial barriers.

“It’snotjustabouttheamount;it’sabout the care, time and thought behind the donation, and the fact that our work with grievingfamiliesisbeingrecognisedand supported.”

MsCoadsaidthe“wonderfuldonation” was raised by the quilting group through door takings at one of their meetings.

“Community support like this makes a real difference and helps us continue walking alongside families as they navigate grief, and we can’t thank them enough,” she said.

“Support from local groups like the Seachange Quilters reminds us that we arenotdoingthisworkalone...andweare extremely grateful for their generosity and kindness.”

Our much-loved Trail is turning 15 ... we are sure it will be a fittingly vibrant celebration

- Mike Bodsworth

2026, and we are sure it will be a fittingly vibrant celebration of the creativity and talentacrossourshire.

“We encourage first-time or long-time participatingartiststogettheirregistrations in and be part of one of the region’s

most-celebratedartsevents.”

Council’s Arts Team will host an online information session for artists interested in beingpartofthetrailon10Marchfrom1pm to 2pm, with the trail returning across the regionon1and2August.

“We want to help ensure that your Trail experienceisasrewardingandenjoyableas possible,”CrBodsworthsaid.

“We’re here to support artists at every stage throughout the Trail, so please be suretomakethemostoftheonlinesession, and if you have any further queries, don’t hesitatetocontactourCouncilArtsTeam.”

This year’s trail will offer new

opportunities for community members and businesses to be involved with the establishment of the volunteer program to providesupportforartistsandvenues. A new Saturday Night Gig Guide will also provideinformationaboutperformanceart activitiesaccompanyingthetrailforvisitors and community members, like theatre or musicevents.

Councilwillalsohostdrop-insessionsfor people to have a friendly chat with the Surf Coast Arts Team about grants, project ideas ortheartstrail. Visit surfcoast.vic.gov.au/ArtsTrail for moreinformationandregistrations.

New page at library

By Matt Hewson

Geelong Regional Library Corporation (GRLC) has named an interim boss while it begins the search for a new chief executive.

In response to sitting chief executive Vanessa Schernickau’s recent announcement she was vacating the role to pursue a PhD, the GRLC board announced its current director of community experience David Semmens would step into the top job at the end of February.

Previous to joining GRLC in 2024, Mr Semmens spent eight years at Wyndham councilinavarietyofleadershiprolesand six years at City of Canada Bay.

GRLC board chair, Surf Coast Shire councillor Liz Pattison, said Mr Semmens was“anexperiencedexecutiveleaderwith more than 18 years’ experience across local government and regional service organisations”.

“Prior to joining Geelong Regional Libraries, he held senior leadership roles at Wyndham City Council, including interim director city life, where he led large, multidisciplinary portfolios spanning libraries, community learning, sportandrecreation,artsandculture,and community support services,” Cr Pattison said.

“The board congratulates David on this appointment and recognises his strategic, systems-thinking approach to leading change, and that he brings strong governance, operational and stakeholder leadership experience to the acting CEO role.”

Ms Schernickau has been in the role formorethanfourandahalfyears,before which she served as the Barwon South West regional director for the Victorian Department of Transport, chief executive oftheGreatOceanRoadCoastCommittee, and a number of other local government and public service leadership positions. She oversaw GRLC while a number of new libraries joined the organisation, including Queenscliff, Drysdale, Armstrong Creek, Torquay and Lara.

QUALITY CAR SERVICING

Her leadership was integral to resisting the Geelong council’s efforts to significantly cut library funding in the region in 2024 due to budgetary constraints.

Ms Schernickau, who also serves as president of Public Libraries Victoria, leaves GRLC to pursue a PhD by research at Melbourne University that will explore the role of public libraries in responding to disinformation, misinformation and malign influence.

Stage nostalgia at arts centre

Treatyourselftoatrulymemorable morning of song, story and nostalgia with Heart & Music, the first instalment in Geelong Arts Centre’s Delightful Days & Matinees series.

This uplifting performance features internationally acclaimed musical theatre favourites Simon Gleeson (Helpmann Award–winning Jean Valjean in Les Miserables) and Natalie O’Donnell (Mamma Mia!, Dear Evan Hansen).

Together, they share timeless classics - from Irving Berlin and ABBA to highlights from The Greatest Showman - woven with warm, personal reflections on love, life and their remarkable shared journey on stage.

Held in the inviting surrounds of The Play House on Wednesday 18 February at 11am, it’s the perfect daytime cultural outing for lovers of great music and heartfelt storytelling.

Tickets are just $30, with concession and group discounts available, and include a complimentary morning tea from 9.30am.

Book now and enjoy a beautifully uplifting matinee as part of Geelong Arts Centre’s Season 2026. Visit www. geelongartcentre.org.au for more information.

GEELONG FASHION FORTNIGHT – 14-28 FEBRUARY

We’re proud to support the PayPal Melbourne Fashion Festival expansion into regional Victoria with the launch of the Geelong Fashion Fortnight next week.

Right here in Geelong, a UNESCO City of Design, you’ll find 16 unique events, from exhibitions to workshops, runways and markets, 10 of which are free to attend.

See the program: geelong.link/GeelongFashionFortnight

If you have chosen to pay your rates in full rather than by instalments, payment is due on or before 15 February each year. This year it falls on a Sunday, so full payment is due by Monday 16 February.

More info: geelong.link/Rates

STARTING A NEW BUSINESS?

Visit us at one of our Small Business Support sessions held across the region.

You can book a free one-on-one appointment for tailored support, or drop in anytime during the day to chat with our friendly team.

See dates and locations: geelong.link/ Business

Is your child turning three or four before 30 April 2027?

Now is the time to register your expression of interest for three and four-year-old sessional kindergarten.

More information including open days, locations, and to register: geelong.link/ KindergartenRegistrations

When you know, you know

Ocean Grove’s Lauchie Mant will perform in AG Theatre’s production of Mamma Mia! The Musical at The National Theatre in St Kilda for the next month. He spoke to Matt Hewson about following your heart and finding your people.

Though only 23, Lauchie Mant is something of a latecomer to musical theatre.

While he participated in high school productions like School of Rock, Lauchie was drawn more to pop icons than triple threat stage actors.

“Performing has always been a passion, definitelyanoutlet,butwhenIwasyounger I was more so referencing Ariana Grande, Shawn Mendes, those sort of artists,” he said.

“I’ve got two older sisters and we grew up with a lot of music around us. Every family function, there’s going to be lots of loudmusicanddancing,especiallyaround ChristmasandNewYearswealwaysputon a big family party.

“Being the youngest, I would see my sisters singing and dancing to Hannah Montana, Nikki Webster, so I guess I just looked at them and absorbed that.”

Lauchie enjoyed singing and performing popmusic,undertakingvocaltrainingand participating in “little gigs here and there” while studying his VCE.

And while his parents wholeheartedly supported his performing pursuits, they also encouraged Lauchie to work hard and studyforagoodcareer.Hedidso,enrolling in a double degree in law commerce at Deakin.

“Mum moved to Australia from Sri Lanka with her family when she was one, and my dad also moved here when he was a teenager…coming from my cultural background, it’s that thing of you have to be a lawyer or a doctor or an engineer,” he said. “My parents would say to keep performing as a hobby, on the side. But they’re beautiful, they only support me.

“And law, for me, is definitely an academic interest, but it doesn’t fill my cup like performing.”

Andso,twoyearsintohisdoubledegree, Lauchie reduced his study load at Deakin to enrol in Brunswick performing arts school Showfit Studios.

“Doing part-time uni while doing full-timemusicaltheatretrainingwaskind of crazy, but I did it anyway,” he said.

“But I still never thought of it as musical theatre. I always loved movie musicals, like Hairspray, Grease…but I went into Showfit thinking, oh, I just want to learn more about singing, acting and dancing separately.

“But I found musical theatre to incorporate everything I loved…it brings them all into this beautiful experience.”

Lauchie graduated from the two-year performing arts course last year, scoring two theatre gigs along the way that only cemented his new love for musicals.

“My first professional show was (Sean Donehue and Nick Waxman’s) Bearded in January 2025, and that was based on the 2017 gay marriage equality vote,” he said.

“It’s centred on two teens coming of age andcomingouttotheirparents,onehaving really conservative parents and one not. It’s a beautiful story of how they discover themselves and help each other out.

“It’s such a fun musical, a lot of dancing, very camp, very upbeat and energetic. I felt right at home, being gay myself, so for thattobemyfirstprofessionalmusicalwas amazing.

“I learned so much about myself, and about gay history as well. I was a bit too young in 2017 to understand the gay marriage equality vote at time…I learned somuchaboutthesignificanceofspeaking up and being yourself.

“And being part of a cast that was so proud, celebrating themselves, it was beautiful to be a part of, definitely a homecoming.”

In September last year Lauchie had a different,butnolessrevelatory,experience playing David Van Patten, one of Patrick Bateman’s boys club members, in See You Sunday’s production of American Psycho at Chapel Off Chapel.

“I had not watched American Psycho prior to the audition…(so) I was really surprised to get an email pretty much the next day saying ‘we would love to offer you

the role of David Van Patten’,” he laughed.

“I think what I showed was my love for 80smusic,andIthinkmylookaswell;Ihad the new edition moustache for 2025, and I think that also sold it.

“But that experience was amazing, I got to work with people who had done shows like Frozen, Wicked, Cats, Footloose, a lot of shows on big stages. Coming into it, I felt a bit intimidated, but the cast could not

I found musical theatre to incorporate everything I loved…it brings them all into this beautiful experience

- Lauchie Mant

have been more welcoming.”

With 2026 in full swing, Lauchie is preparing to dive back into full-time study tocompletehislawandcommercestudies, but not before performing in a month-long run in the ensemble of Mamma Mia at St Kilda’s The National Theatre.

“Mamma Mia is definitely on a bigger scale, I’ve never been on a stage this big as of yet, so it’s really exciting,” Lauchie said.

“I got to see Tarzan last year at The National and I was blown away. I didn’t think I was actually going to be on that stageinacoupleofmonthsafterthat,soit’s kind of crazy.”

The experience represents a new level of performing for Lauchie, another step into an industry that continues to draw him in.

“I feel like now I’m getting a bit of momentum now that I’m out of training, getting my name out there a bit more,” he said.

“I’m meeting a lot of brilliant people and connecting with a lot of amazing actors, so I think I’m slowly getting to where I want to be.”

Inthemeantime,Lauchiestillhasplenty of work ahead of him with his degree, but he couldn’t be more happy with his place in the world.

“I only moved (to Ocean Grove) officially in March 2025, and it’s beautiful,” he said.

“The beach is a two-minute walk away, I lovetheshops,Ilovethepeople.I’vemoved my study online…and Deakin offers great online access, it’s very flexible.

“I’m excited about what I’m doing and thefutureofwhatI’llbedoing…Iknowhow challenging (the performing arts industry) is, but when you know, you know.”

Lauchie Mant performs in Mamma Mia at The National Theatre from February 7 to March 8. Visit booktickets.com. au/mammamia for tickets and more information.

School bus crash charges

A man has been charged after a car allegedly crashed into a school bus while trying to evade police before driving at officers in Newtown.

Police spotted a Kia Optima, which was allegedly stolen in New South Wales, near the Princes Highway and Roebuck Street intersection at about 3.40pm on 29 January.

With Air Wing monitoring from above, police units on the ground attempted to intercept the vehicle before the Kia allegedly attempted to flee the scene and

Works underway at busy Highton intersection

Construction has begun on a new roundaboutatabusyHightonintersection.

Expected to be completed in early May, the new roundabout at the intersection of Roslyn and Thornhill roads is part of a number of upgrades, including raised pedestrian crossings and improved footpaths, intended to improve traffic flow andincreasesafetyforallroadusers.

The intersection will be temporarily closedduetotheworksfrom4Februaryto earlyApril.

The City of Greater Geelong will put detour signs and traffic management in place and has encouraged drivers to allow extra travel time or consider alternative routeswhileconstructionisunderway.

DeputymayorandBarraboolHillsWard

councillor Ron Nelson highlighted the benefits the upgraded intersection would bringtothecommunity.

“These essential upgrades will help reduce the risk of crashes and improve traffic flow through Highton, which is a great outcome for the community,” he said.

“The new pedestrian crossings will also make the area safer and more connected for everyone. With its proximity to Highton Primary School, this intersection will encourage students to walk safely to school, minimising traffic during peak pickupanddropofftimes.

“It may take a little longer to detour around the intersection during construction,soweencourageeveryoneto allowabitofextratraveltime.

“Improving our roads is important to keep people safe and connected, so we really appreciate the community’s patienceandcooperationwhilewegetthis workdone.”

reversed into a school bus.

The Kia allegedly then drove at police, which resulted in one officer discharging their firearm, before the vehicle collided with another car.

The two occupants fled on foot before being arrested nearby and transported to hospital under police guard.

The 37-year-old man of no fixed address sustained a non-life-threatening gunshot wound to the arm, while the 43-year-old New South Wales woman had minor injuries.

Detectives charged the male driver with bringing stolen goods into Victoria, theft of a motor vehicle, criminal damage, dangerous driving manner, aggravated intentional exposure of an emergency workertoriskbydrivingandtwocountsof conduct endangering serious injury.

The female passenger was also charged with handling of stolen goods.

The man was remanded in custody and appearedatGeelongMagistrates’Courton 2February,whilethewomanwasbailedto appear at the Geelong court on 31 March.

The occupants of the bus were not injured, and the female driver of the civilian vehicle that the Kia collided with was taken to hospital with minor injuries. Investigations into the incident will continue with Professional Standards Command oversight, which is a standard practice when a police firearm is discharged.

Anyonewithinformationontheincident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers at crimestoppersvic.com.au or on 1800 333 000.

Exhibition flies in

By Jena Carr

A community art and science exhibition has flown into Geelong to help open a relationship between residents and the region’s wildlife.

The Bats and Belonging open community show opened at Untether Gallery on 5 February with a wide selection of artworks depicting Geelong’s grey-headed flying foxes.

Deakin University Environmental Sciences senior lecturer Dr Adam Cardilini organised the exhibition with honours student and artist Nyssa Braid alongside Bats of Geelong Wildlife Shelter.

Dr Cardilini said the free exhibition would run until 21 February and explore the community’s understanding of care connection and coexistence with grey-headed flying foxes.

“We’re hoping to share the story of the ecological role of the bats, their importance in our environment, and who they are as individuals,” he said.

“Whoever felt inspired by the theme of the exhibition was welcome to put in a piece of work on the theme of celebrating or exploring our relationships with the grey-headed flying foxes.

“We hope that the artwork is an impactful and powerful way for people to share the community’s understandings of the bats...and there’s a variety of artwork as well.”

Dr Cardilini said grey-headed flying foxes were an important part of Eastern Park and Geelong’s landscapes.

Turning landfill

A new research project that could divert hundreds of tonnes of waste from landfill each year has received the support of the City of Greater Geelong.

Geelong council has voted to provide $25,000 in funding to a partnership including Deakin University, the Advanced Fibre Cluster and flooring company Godfrey Hirst to explore whether carpeting manufacturing waste material could be recycled into 3D printing feeder stock. One of the potential uses of the new product would be 3D printed bollards for the redevelopment of the Baywalk and Barwon Heads bollards.

Godfrey Hirst manufacturing manager Aaron Dawson said the project could be a “practical step forward” for keeping “valuable materials in use for longer”.

“Exploring the potential to transform carpet manufacturing waste into durable, large-scale 3D printed products aligns strongly with our commitment to waste reduction and circular economy principles.”

“Bats give us a view into what the lives of other animals are like, and for bats in Geelong, they have a good life as they’re livingwell,andtheycanflourishifthey’re treated with care and respect.

“These recent days of very hot weather can mean catastrophic heat events that

“When we turn our attention to someone else and imagine their world and perspective, we can really open ourselves up to who they are,” he said.

kill many bats, and sharing that story with the local community in Geelong is really important.

“It means that it brings awareness to the threat that the bats face into the future in a warming world...and they’re these sentient beings who enjoy life, have friendships, and challenges.”

Geelong Mayor Stretch Kontelj said the project “It reflects our city’s rich history in manufacturing, it highlights where we are today in advanced manufacturing…it contributes to the circular economy, and potentially reduces waste and landfill while preserving the legacy of our bollards.”

CELEBRATING SENIORS

Keeping cool in the heat

Hot weather places significant stress on the body, especially for older adults and high temperatures can affect overall health, reduce energy levels, and increase the risk of heat-related illness.

These conditions can range from mild dehydrationtomoreseriousheatstress,so it’s important to recognise early signs and take steps to stay cool and safe.

Try to stay out of direct sunlight, minimise physical activity during the hottestpartsoftheday,chooselightweight clothingandkeephydratedtohelpprevent

heat-related illness.

Use air conditioning if available and keep curtains closed and windows shut during the day, then open them at night to let in cooler air to keep indoor spaces cool. Homestyle Aged Care has provided quality, supportive residential care for nearly 40 years.

If you or a loved one are looking for care in Ocean Grove, Leopold, or Grovedale, visit www.homestyleagedcare.com.au or call 1300 104 663.

‘Lifesaver’ in home care

Live life to the fullest in the comfort of your own home with Just Better Care.

Sofia Harris said the specialist home-aged and disability care support service was a “lifesaver” and that there were many things her support workers helped her with that other services wouldn’t.

“They assist with things that I can’t manage to get done on my own anymore suchasdomesticassistanceandshopping. They really strive to do their best to satisfy my care needs,” she said.

“The people are really wonderful, and nothing is ever too much trouble. The staff are very approachable, my case manager is always there to listen, and I know I can reach out if I need anything”

“HavingassistancefromJustBetterCare has given me the independence to keep going. Sometimes there are things I need downthestreetwhereit’shardtogoonmy own, so having someone along with me is a great to support me.”

To start your Just Better Care journey, call 03 5222 1518, email mailge@ justbettercare.com or visit the caring team at their office at Level 1 114a Mt Pleasant Road in Belmont. Visit justbettercare.com/Geelong for more information.

CELEBRATING SENIORS

Experience retirement living designed around you

This is your final opportunity to secure a brand-new home in the most sought-after release at Bellarine Lakes Country Club.

With just four homes remaining, interest is high—and for a good reason.

Discover a community where thoughtful design, resort-style amenities, and genuine connection come together to create a lifestyle that’s as relaxed or as active as you choose.

In addition to the final new homes, a limitedselectionofbeautifullyrefurbished and brand-new two and three-bedroom residences are available.

The impressive Eden Beach design offers 21 squares of contemporary, low-maintenance living. With three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a study, open-plan living, double garage, and

expansive outdoor entertaining, this home is perfect for both quiet comfort and hostingfamilyandfriends.Asleekmodern kitchen with stone benchtops, premium appliances, and generous storage anchors the home with style and practicality.

Equally captivating, the Belford Waters home features two generously sized bedrooms, each with its own private ensuite.Themastersuiteboastsaspacious walk-in robe, while the entertainer’s kitchen shines with luxurious 40mm stone benchtops, soft-close cabinetry, abundant storage, and high-quality appliances—where sophistication meets everyday ease.

Step outside your door and into a world of exceptional amenities. Residents enjoy exclusive access to:

• Private golf course

• Four-rink bowling green

• Tennis court

• Indoor heated pool & outdoor lap pool

• Gymnasium and hobby workshop

• Alfresco dining spaces

• A beautifully appointed clubhouse featuring a cinema, billiards room, craft room, library, medical suite, and indoor carpet bowls

With over 30 social groups, there’s always something happening, whether it’s discovering new interests, reconnecting witholdpassions,orsimplyenjoyinggreat company. And best of all, you can do as much or as little as you like.

Locatedjustminutesfromthebeachand only 7km from Geelong’s CBD, Bellarine Lakes Country Club offers the perfect

balance of tranquillity, connection, and convenience. This is more than a place to live, it’s a place to truly belong.

Join Bellarine Lakes on Friday 13 February at 12pm for an open day and two-course luncheon.

Enjoy a relaxed afternoon with the welcoming residents, tour the stunning displayhomeandexperiencefirsthandthe vibrant community that makes Bellarine Lakes so special. Places are limited—RSVP essential. Contact lifestyle consultant Lisa Duke on0447495400orfreecall1800255578for more information or to arrange a private tour.

Bellarine Lakes Country Club, 402 Bellarine Highway, Moolap 3224.

Assumptions about ageing that “bleep” off older people

National Seniors Australia (NSA) has released research into the annoying and contradictory assumptions made about olderpeople.

More than 2,000 people aged 50 plus shared their views on assumptions that annoy them about older people’s bodies, brains,values,lifestyles,andmore.

Some people objected to the stereotypes of older people as frail and incapable, bad with technology, resentful of change, or unabletocontributetosociety.

Such assumptions were countered with comments about older people’s “enormous unpaid contribution to society and economy”, the fact they “still want to be a punk rocker”, or their “lifelong history of protest”.

Other people objected to the counter-stereotypes that older people are all fit, technology savvy, and excited about change.

NSA head of research Dr Diane Hosking said the research reinforces older people are extremely diverse and while some are sharperandfitterthanever,othersdoneed supportandconsideration.

“The research shows how ridiculous it is to make assumptions about people based onage,”DrHoskingsaid.

Objections to assumptions about Baby Boomers were common as well. Such assumptions include the contradictory ideas that Baby Boomers hoard wealth or are conversely a “drain on the public purse”.

“Olderpeopledon’tstopbeingourdiverse selves just because we age,” Dr Hosking said.

“More than a third of Australia’s population is aged 50 plus. Like any large

group, it is full of very different people. We were different from each other when we were20andwe’restillverydifferentnow.

“Part of recognising diversity in ageing is accepting that declines in body and

mind can come with age and adapting to ensure new needs are met. It is also about respectingpeople’svalues,preferences,and lifestyle expectations, and enabling people toageinthewaythat’srightforthem.”

Rocking and raging

Australia has a rich pantheon of rock heroes; from Bon Scott to Barnesy, Billy Thorpe to Shirley Strachan, the Aussie musical landscape is filled with larger than life larrikins who went hard and took their fansalongfortheride.

Most of those iconic figures are men. Australia has female rock stars - Suze DeMarchi, Ella Hooper and Adalita Srsen - but their stories have, for the most part, beenframeddifferently.

While they may have displayed a similar middle-finger-brandishing attitude, they have never been deified for it to the degree theirmalecounterpartshave.

Performer Sheridan Harbridge has spent a good portion of her career making sure Australia’s “disobedient girls” and “difficult women”havetheirstoriestold.

“They’re just trying to lead, and for that they’relabelledasdifficult,”shesaid.

“We love our male ratbags, but when it’s a woman they come under a different sort of exposure.

“I’ve always tried to revise how we see a lot of ‘difficult women’ on stage…I feel honoured to tell the story of women who forgedthatpathsoIcouldbehere.”

There could be no better subject than Geelong’s very own rock goddess Chrissy Amphlett..

Harbridge’s latest show Amplified: The ExquisiteRockandRageofChrissyAmphlett explorestheDivinylsfrontwoman’sstory.

“Chrissy did not call herself an activist in any way…(but) those sort of women who step ahead and go ‘I’m going to say something and it’s important’ are ripe for exposureandattack,”shesaid.

“Shetookalotofheatinthepressandhad toputupsuchanarmortosurvivethat.And Ithinkthatwasatahugepersonalcost,how she had to live - fist clenched, swinging - in thatenvironment.”

Premiered at Melbourne’s Rising Festival in June last year, Amplified has received

critical acclaim for its presentation of a culturaliconwhorefusedtoacceptsociety’s rules.

“Chrissy was standing out front of a band going, ‘this is how women can and should live’,”Harbridgesaid.

“She didn’t hold back on revealing the subversive and difficult parts of being a woman.”

Amplified:TheExquisiteRockandRageof Chrissy Amphlett is at Geelong Arts Centre on12-13February.

Swinging summer at the gardens

The Geelong Botanic Gardens come to life this month with the summer series of jazz concerts.

Music at the Geelong Botanic Gardens returns with three outdoor, family-friendly concerts celebrating jazz,swingandbigbandmusic.

The series kicks off on 14 February with Melbourne jazz stalwarts The PearlyShells,whobringaseven-piece band renowned for their lively stage presenceanddance-orientedsound.

Originating 30 years ago in Melbourne, The Pearly Shells have performed with some of the biggest names in Australian jazz, and regularly call on the scene’s best-knownsingerstojointhem.

“We’re bringing the Hot Seven, which is our usual rhythm section withthreehornplayers,sowe’llmake a big racket with that; not quite a big band,butheapsofhorns,”bandleader andbassistStevePurcellsaid.

“Onceyou’vegotthreeorfourhorns, people pay attention. It’s a big sound, youcanreallyhitpeopleoverthehead withit.”

The series will also feature the Surf CoastBigBand(22February)andBob Sedergreen&Friends(28February). Visitmusicatgbg.comfortickets.

BUSINESS IN F CUS

Exceptional care every day at Aspire

Every family deserves a village, a place where they are understood, supported, and surroundedbypeoplewhogenuinelycare.

AtAspireEarlyEducation&Kindergarten, that is what is created every day. It is not just an early learning provider, it is community builtonconnection.

inspired. That is why everything it does is centredaroundfourpillars:

•Exceptional Care, Every Day – nurturing spaces where every child feels seen and celebrated.

•Joy in Every Moment – discovering the magicofchildhoodthroughplay,laughter, andbelonging.

•Learning That Sparks Curiosity – turning everyday moments into meaningful learningexperiences.

From the moment you walk through our doors, you will feel it, the warmth of educators who know every child by name, thejoythatfillseachclassroom,andthecalm assurance that your child is safe, supported, andthriving.

A day at Aspire is filled with discovery. Morning play brings giggles in the garden and new friendships forming over sandcastles. Indoors, children paint, build, andexploreideasthatsparkimaginationand confidence. Storytimebecomesamomentof calm connection, while cooking, music, and movementturnlearningintolaughter.

Every experience is guided by educators who see the potential in every child and nurtureitwithcareandencouragement.

Aspire’s philosophy is simple. Children learn best when they feel loved, valued, and

•Together,WeGrow–familiesandeducators united to build strong, confident, and capablechildren.

Because these early years matter most, and at Aspire, they are made extraordinary. Aspire goes above and beyond to empower young minds with curiosity, confidence, and compassionthatlastsalifetime.

With 2026 enrolments now open, there has never been a better time to begin your Aspire journey. Come and see the difference genuinecaremakes.

1800 978 429 | Scan the QR code to book a tour or enquire now

The Guide

PICK OF THE WEEK

OLYMPIC WINTER GAMES MILANO

CORTINA 2026 OPENING CEREMONY

Nine, Saturday, live at 6am, replayed at 1pm

From Leonardo da Vinci to the late Giorgio Armani, Italian design and creativity have shaped the world. It’s a tradition that continues with the stylish Opening Ceremony of the Milano Cortina Olympic Winter Games, which pays tribute to Italy, its art, innovation and history. Olympic cauldrons will be lit in both Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, underscoring the theme of “armonia” (or harmony). Whether you’re up early to watch live, tuning in on demand or catching the encore at 1pm, this promises to be an event to remember, with performances from Mariah Carey, Andrea Bocelli (inset), Laura Pausini, Pierfrancesco Favino and Sabrina Impacciatore.

Friday, February 6

DOMINIC WEST: EXTREME SILK ROAD

SBS, Sunday, 7.30pm

After playing a conceited cop in TheWire, a philandering author in TheAffair and winning a BAFTA Award for portraying a serial killer, actor Dominic West is ready for a change of scenery. TV’s go-to bad guy steps back in time with this rugged new docuseries that explores the ancient Eurasian trade route known as the Silk Road. Starting in Kyrgyzstan, West seeks to understand the country’s nomadic heritage, visiting modern-day yak herders and markets before embarking on a horseback trek with his TheWireco-star Clarke Peters (pictured, right, with West) and adventurer Alexandra Tolstoy.

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

SEVEN (6, 7)

AUSTRALIAN IDOL Seven, Monday, 7.30pm

After 25 years of twists, turns and shock reveals, it seems that Australia’s reality TV industry is back where it began: BigBrotheris live at Dreamworld, Gretel Killeen is hosting a televised social experiment (this time it’s TheTraitors) and Marcia Hines is scouring the nation for up-and-coming singing sensations on AustralianIdol. The noughties nostalgia is strong, with this year’s hunt for vibrant vocalists taking Hines, Kyle Sandilands and Amy Shark (pictured) to all corners of the country. The series’ biggest auditions round to date is focused on uncut gems, including Karratha guitar player Cody and nervous teen Nicholas, who hails from Gawler, South Australia.

MISSION TO SPACE WITH FRANCIS BOURGEOIS

ABC TV, Tuesday, 8.30pm

Francis Bourgeois’ love of trains has taken the enthusiastic engineering student around the world, documenting his passion for all things railway-related for a social media audience of three million followers. But does his excitement for transportation extend to spacecraft? You bet. The 25-yearold TikTok star is a man on a mission in this two-part special, taken under the wing of British astronaut Tim Peake as he follows a childhood dream: launching into orbit.

A gruelling training regime lies ahead for Bourgeois (pictured) as he is tested for health issues and subjected to G-forces before a zero-gravity flight. The end result is more “space oddity” than odyssey.

NINE (8, 9) 6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Solar System With Brian Cox. (R) 11.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 12.00 ABC News At Noon. 1.00 Muster Dogs. (PG, R) 2.00 Dog Park. (Ml, R) 2.30 In Limbo. (Mal, R) 3.00 Would I Lie To You? (PG, R) 3.30 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 4.00 Love Your Garden. (R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6am Morning Programs. 9.00 Barkley Manor. (PG, R) 10.00 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGal, R) 10.50 Mountain Vets. (Ma, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 12.55 PBS News. 1.55 South America With Simon Reeve. (PGaw, R) 3.00 Nula. 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Secrets Of The Terror Whale. (R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.35 All Creatures Great And Small Christmas Special. (Final, PG)

8.35 Art Detectives. (Final, PGa) Mick’s father is taken hostage.

9.20 Hard Quiz. (PGa, R) Hosted by Tom Gleeson.

9.50 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PG, R)

10.20 Dog Park. (Ml, R)

10.50 ABC Late News.

11.10 Smother. (Mal, R)

12.55 Rage New Music. (MA15+adhlnsv)

5.00 Rage. (PGadhlnsv)

6am Children’s Programs. 12.35pm Ben And Holly. 1.20 Octonauts. 2.15 Peter Rabbit. 2.35 Daniel Tiger’s. 2.50 The Makery. 3.05 Play School. 3.30 Wiggle. 4.15 Andy’s Aquatic Adventures. 5.40 Kangaroo Beach. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.25 Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Gardening Australia Junior. 7.40 Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures. 8.05 Scooby-Doo And Guess  Who? 8.35 My Adventures With Superman. 8.55 Robot Wars. 9.55 TKO: Total Knock Out. 10.35 Late Programs.

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Southern Cyprus: Aphrodite’s Paradise. (Premiere) Looks at the sights and sounds of Cyprus. 9.30 Isle Of Wight: Jewel Of The South. (PG, R) Marine biologist Theo Vickers goes in search of a sea slug to photograph. 10.25 SBS World News Late. 10.55 Sisi. (MA15+ds, R) 11.50 Babylon Berlin. (Mav, R) 1.40 Silent Road. (MA15+v, R) 4.25 Bamay. (R) 4.55 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31)

6am Morning Programs. 7.20 FBC News. 7.50 Euronews. 8.10 NHK Newsline. 8.40 CBC The National. 9.30 BBC News At Six. 10.00 France 24 English News. 10.30 The Food That Built The World. 12.05pm DW The Day. 12.35 Blaktrax. 1.10 Mastermind Aust. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.50 If You Are The One. 6.50 Jeopardy! 7.45 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 MOVIE: Risky Business. (1983, M) 10.20 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. 11.10 Homeland. 1.15am Sex Before The Internet. 2.05 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 MOVIE: One Of A Kind Love. (2021, PGa) Jocelyn Hudon. 3.00 The Chase. (R) 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. Hosted by Larry Emdur.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Better Homes And Gardens Summer. Joh and Pete explore a LiveWorkShare House.

8.30 MOVIE: Pretty Woman. (1990, Mal, R) A businessman, in need of an escort for the evening, gives a sex worker a first-hand look at the  lives of the mega-rich. Richard Gere,  Julia Roberts, Hector Elizondo.

11.05 To Be Advised.

12.50 Dare Me. (MA15+asv) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 5.00 Dr Harry’s Animal Encounters. (PG, R)

7TWO (62, 72)

TEN (5, 10)

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. (Mls, R) 1.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. H’lights of the Milano Cortina 2026 games. From Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG, R) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. (PG) 5.30 WIN News.

6.00 9News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. A preview of Milano Cortina 2026. 8.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Night. 12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Post Midnight.

3.00 Next Stop. (R) 3.30 World’s Greatest Myths And Mysteries. (PG, R) 4.30 Beyond The Dream: Ice Breakers — Chasing Olympic Gold. (R) 5.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026: Opening Ceremony Pre-Show. The Opening  Ceremony of Milano Cortina 2026.

9GEM (81, 92)

6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 AACTA Awards 2026. Honours Australian television creatives and performers. 10.00 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 11.00 10 News+. (R) Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 11.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG)

Home Shopping. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 11.00 Surfing Aust. 11.30 Parental Guidance. 2pm Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 MOVIE: The Chronicles Of Narnia: The Voyage Of The Dawn Treader. (2010, PG) 9.45 MOVIE: Stargate: Continuum. (2008, M) 11.45 Psychic Kids. 12.45am Love Island UK. 1.45 The Vampire Diaries. 3.30 I Love VIP Pets.

6am Morning Programs. Noon MOVIE: LUV. (2012, M) 1.40 Words Matter. 2.00 Kriol Kitchen. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.30 Nula. 6.00 Bamay. 6.40 Volcanic Odysseys. 7.30 MOVIE: The Witches. (2020, PG) 9.30 MOVIE: What We Do In The Shadows. (2014, M) 11.00 Nula. 11.30 Stompem Ground. 12.05am Going Places. 1.00 Cultural Connections Immersion Festival. 2.00 On The Road. 3.00 On The Road. 4.00 Four Kings. 5.00 Late Programs. NITV (34)

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)

6am Morning Programs. 7.50 The Amazing Mr. Blunden. (2021, PG) 9.20 The Movie Show. 10.25 Limitless. (2011, Mdlsv) 12.20pm Indecent Proposal. (1993, Mals) 2.30 Discovering Film. 3.25 Time Bandits. (1981, PGahv) 5.35 Whale Rider. (2002, PGal) 7.30 Escape From Alcatraz. (1979, Mav) 9.35 Harry Brown. (2009, MA15+dlsv) 11.40 End Of Watch. (2012, MA15+lv) 1.40am The Quiet American. (2002, MA15+av) 3.30 Hounds. (2023, Malv, Berber, French) 5.10 Hajjan. (2023, PGav, Arabic)

7MATE (64, 73)

6am Morning Programs. 8.00 TV Shop. 10.30 Pointless. 11.30 M*A*S*H. Noon Recipes For Love And Murder. 1.00 Poirot. 3.00 Antiques Roadshow. 3.30 MOVIE: Some People. (1962) 5.30 Yorkshire Auction House. 6.30 Antiques Roadshow. 7.30 New Tricks. 8.40 MOVIE: Lethal Weapon. (1987, M) 10.55 The Equalizer. 11.55 New Tricks. 1am Creflo.  1.30 MOVIE: Some People. (1962) 3.30 Danger Man. 4.30 M*A*S*H. 5.00 Yorkshire Auction House.

10 COMEDY (52, 11)

6am Morning Programs. 11.30 The Real Seachange. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Home In WA. 2.30 Weekender. 3.00 Room For Improvement. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Wildlife ER. 8.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Secrets Of Beautiful Gardens. 12.30am Escape To The Country. 1.30 Home In WA. 2.00 Harry’s Practice. 2.30 Medical Emergency. 3.00 Better Homes. 4.00 Late Programs. 6am Shopping. 8.00 Reel Action. 9.00 Living Room.

6am Morning Programs. 8.00 A Football Life. 9.00 America’s Game.

5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Road Wars. 8.30 MOVIE: The Longest Yard. (2005, M) 10.50 NFL Tailgate. 11.20 MOVIE: Major League. (1989, M) 1.35am Road Wars. 2.00 Golf. LIV Golf League Riyadh.

9GO! (82, 93)

10 DRAMA (53, 12)

Saturday, February 7

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

SEVEN (6, 7)

NINE (8, 9) 6am Morning Programs. 12.00 News. 12.30 Call The Midwife. (PGa, R)

1.30 Art Detectives. (Final, PGa, R)

2.15 All Creatures Great And Small Christmas Special. (Final, PG, R) 3.10 Extraordinary Escapes. (PG, R) 4.00 Human. (Final, PG, R) 5.00 Aust Story. (R) 5.30 Dr Karl’s How Things Work. (R)

6.00 Kath & Kim. (PGals, R) Kim moves in with Kath.

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R) Presented by Tom Gleeson.

7.00 ABC News. Takes a look at the top stories of the day, including coverage of developing stories and events.

7.30 Call The Midwife. (PGa) Joyce faces a difficult situation when a mother suffers postnatal complications.

8.30 Midsomer Murders. (M)

Two teams compete in the local lawn bowls’ championship as the season draws to a close.

10.00 This England. (Ml, R) Looks at Boris Johnson winning the 2019 general election and COVID-19 emerging in Wuhan. 11.05 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) Continuous music programming.

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Morning Programs. 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Figure Skating. ISU Four Continents Championships. Highlights. 4.00 Going Places. (R) 4.30

Cycling. Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race. Elite Women’s. 5.30 Imperial Crown: The Myth, Mystery And Majesty.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Secrets Of Britain’s Historic Houses: Goldfinger. (PG) An avantgarde work of art needs restoration.

8.40 Swiss Alpine Rail Journeys: The Tenacious Davoser Railways. (R) The funiculars of Schatzalp and Parsenn in Davos pull travellers through an alpine winter wonderland.

9.35 The Secret DNA Of Us: Bathurst. (PG, R) Marc and his team unravel the DNA of Bathurst, a regional and agricultural hub just three hours west of Sydney.

10.40 Lord Lucan: The Trail. (Malv, R) Lucan’s younger brother is located. 11.45 Outlander. (MA15+asv, R) 2.30 Beyond Signs. (MA15+a, R) 4.25 Bamay. (R) 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 3.30pm Thomas. 4.15 Dino Dex. 4.40 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.05 Superworm. 5.40 Super Monsters. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.25 Paddington. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.30 Hard Quiz Kids. 8.00 Chopped Jnr. 8.40 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 9.25 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.10 Late Programs.

NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs. 1.45pm Volcanic Odysseys. 2.35 Walkabouts. 3.00 The Last Ice Hunters. 4.20 Glen Thomas: Beyond The Walls. 4.45 First Australians. 6.00 Haututu Hunters. 6.40 The Other Side. 7.30 Alone Australia. 8.30 MOVIE: The Exorcist. (1973, MA15+) 10.40 Soh Presents: Generations And Dynasties. Midnight Late Programs.

6am Morning

Programs. Noon The Rap Game UK. 3.05 Heroines. 3.45 WorldWatch. 5.45 Mastermind Aust. 6.45 The Food That Built The World. (Return) 7.35 Engineering From Above. 8.30 Icons Unearthed: The Simpsons. 10.20 Marcella. 12.10am WWE Legends. 1.40 Dark Side Of The ‘90s. 2.30 NHK World English News. 5.00 Al Jazeera.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)

6am Morning Programs. 12.55pm Gloria Bell. (2018, Mdlns) 2.50 The Movie Show. 3.25 The Amazing Mr. Blunden. (2021) 5.00 Mia And The White Lion. (2018, PGal) 6.50 Eloise At The Plaza. (2003) 8.30 The Voyeurs. (2021, MA15+lnsv) 10.40 La Maison. (2022, MA15+adnsv, German, English, French) 12.20am Late Programs.

6.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R) 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Horse Racing. Inglis Millennium Day And Caulfield Charity Family Day. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Border Security: Australia’s Front Line. (PG, R) Two men keep changing their stories.

7.30 MOVIE: The Mummy. (1999, Mhv, R) A former soldier disrupts the burial place of a 2000year-old mummified Egyptian priest. Brendan Fraser, Rachel Weisz.

10.00 MOVIE: American Made. (2017, MA15+l, R) A pilot is recruited by the CIA to carry out one of the largest covert operations in history. Tom Cruise, Domhnall Gleeson.

12.20 MOVIE: Daughter In Disguise. (2021, Mav, R) A couple are reunited with their long-lost daughter. Emily Alatalo.

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 It’s Academic. (R)

5.00 Million Dollar Minute. (R)

7TWO (62, 72)

6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm Better Homes And Gardens Summer. 3.00 Better Homes. 4.00 Wildlife ER. 5.00 Horse Racing. Inglis Millennium Day And Caulfield Charity Family Day. 6.00 Luxury Escapes: World’s Best Holidays. 6.30 Bondi Vet. (Return) 7.30 The Yorkshire Vet. 8.30 Lewis. 10.30 Escape To The Country. 11.30 Late Programs.

7MATE (64, 73)

6am Morning

Programs. 2pm Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 3.00 Motor Racing. Alpine Rally of East Gippsland. 4.00 Desert Collectors. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Pawn Stars. 7.00 Storage Wars. 7.30 MOVIE: Ghostbusters: Afterlife. (2021, PG) 10.00 MOVIE: In The Line Of Fire. (1993, M) 12.40am Late Programs.

Sunday, February 8

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

6.00 Rage. (PG) 7.00 Wknd Brekky. 9.00 Insiders. 10.00 Offsiders. 10.30 World This Week. (R) 11.00 Compass. (PG, R) 11.30 Praise. (R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Landline. (R) 1.30 Gardening Aust. (R) 2.30 Muster Dogs. (PG, R) 3.40 The Piano UK. (PG, R) 4.30 Amanda & Alan’s Italian Job. (PG, R) 5.00 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.00 Grand Designs Transformations: Booker Bay Studio And St Peters Extension. (PG, R) 7.00 ABC News.

7.30 Muster Dogs. (PG) Training begins for the puppies.

8.30 Dog Park. (M) Roland tries to guide his daughter Mia through a breakup while facing his own crumbling relationship.

9.00 This England. (M) Looks at Britain during COVID-19.

9.50 Call The Midwife. (PGa, R) Joyce faces a difficult situation.

10.55 Midsomer Murders. (Mv, R)

12.25 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 3.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 4.00 Dream Gardens. (R) 4.30 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.00 Insiders. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 3.30pm Tiddler. 3.55 Children’s Programs. 4.45 Gardening Australia Junior. 5.10 Super Monsters And The Wish Star. 5.55 Octonauts. 6.50 Andy And The Band. 7.05 Piripenguins. 7.30 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 7.50 MOVIE: Space Jam: A New Legacy. (2021, PG) 9.45 Fresh Off The Boat. 10.05 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 12.30 PBS Washington Week. 12.55 The Point: Road To Referendum History Bites. (R) 1.00 Speedweek. 3.00 Cycling. AlUla Tour. Highlights. 4.00 Going Places. (PG, R) 4.30 Cycling. Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race. Elite Men’s. Highlights. 5.30 The Anti-Soviet Fighters.

6.30 SBS World News.

7.30 Dominic West: Extreme Silk Road. (Premiere) 8.25 Grand Canal: China And Its Wondrous Waterway: The South. Presented by Andrew Field. 10.15 Dunhuang: Ancient Frontier Fortress. (MA15+v, R) 11.15 George Michael: Portrait Of An Artist. (Mdls, R) 1.00 Unlocking The Secrets Of The Nazca Lines. (PGa, R) 1.50 Rise Of The Nazis: The Downfall. (Mav, R) 2.55 The Great House Revival. (R) 3.55 Rediscover Victoria. (R) 4.25 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.15 Euronews. 5.30 PBS News Horizons.

SBS VICELAND (31)

6am Morning Programs. 2.15pm Jeopardy! 4.20 WorldWatch. 5.15 PBS News Compass Points. 5.45 Icons Unearthed: The Lord Of The Rings. 6.40 The Architecture The Railways Built. (Return) 7.35 Abandoned Engineering. (Return) 8.30 Mysteries Unearthed With Danny Trejo. (Premiere) 10.10 The Grudge. 11.40 Late Programs.

6.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 Opening Ceremony. 8.30 Weekend Today. 11.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. H’lights of the Milano Cortina 2026 games. 1.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 Opening Ceremony. 5.00 9News First At Five. 5.30 Find My Country House Australia. (PG, R)

6.00 9News Saturday. 7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 1. From Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. Hosted by Alison Langdon and James Bracey. 12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 1 – Post Midnight. From Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. Hosted by Leila McKinnon. 3.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 1 – Overnight. From Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. Hosted by Leila McKinnon, Sylvia Jeffreys and Dylan Alcott.

TEN (5, 10)

6.30 The Dog House Australia. (PGa, R) Narrated by Mark Coles Smith. 7.30 Love It Or List It Australia. (Return) A couple who have been in their house for only four years have already outgrown the property with four growing children. 8.40 Sort Your Life Out. (PGa, R) Stacey Solomon and her team help families declutter and transform their lives. 9.50 Ambulance Australia. (Ma, R) The low blood sugar levels of a 23-year-old type-1 diabetic have led to a dangerous seizure. 10.50 Matlock. (PGa, R) Matlock and Olympia race to protect each other. 11.50 Elsbeth. (PGlsv, R) 1.00 Home Shopping. (R) 5.00 Hour Of Power.

9GEM (81, 92)

6am Morning Programs. 11.40 MOVIE: Twice Round The Daffodils. (1962, PG) 1.35pm MOVIE: Hell Is A City. (1960, PG) 3.25 MOVIE: Train Of Events. (1949, PG) 5.20 MOVIE: Piccadilly Incident. (1946) 7.30 Death In Paradise. 8.40 MOVIE: Rambo: First Blood. (1982, M) 10.35 MOVIE: The Driver. (1978, M) 12.25am MOVIE: Hell Is A City. (1960, PG) 2.15 Late Programs.

9GO! (82, 93)

6am Morning Programs. 2.55pm Surfing Aust. 3.25 Swimming. Aust Open Water C’ships. H’lights. 3.55 LEGO Masters. 5.35 MOVIE: Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed. (2004, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban. (2004, PG) 10.15 MOVIE: Gretel & Hansel. (2020, M) Midnight Late Programs.

(6, 7)

6.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R) 7.00 Weekend Sunrise. 10.00 The Morning Show: Weekend. (PG) 12.00 Cycling. Santos Tour Down Under. H’lights. 1.30 Unfiltered: Cricket. (PG, R) 2.00 MOVIE: Close Encounters Of The Third Kind. (1977, PGh, R) Richard Dreyfuss. 5.00 Seven News At 5. 5.30 Border Security: International. (PG, R)

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Australian Idol. (PGal) 8.40 The Fall Of The House Of Beckham. (Premiere) Follows the public fallout of one of Britain’s most famous family, the Beckhams, playing out in real time on social media.

9.40 The Royal Rich List. (Premiere, PG) Looks at royal assets worth £21 billion.

11.10 Crime Investigation Australia: Most Infamous. (MA15+av, R) 12.20 Temple. (Mal) 1.20 Travel Oz. (PG, R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 3.30 Million Dollar Minute. (R) 4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R) 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

7TWO (62, 72)

6am Morning Programs. 7.00 Weekend Today. 10.00 Golf. Jack Newton Celebrity Classic. H’lights. 11.00 Fishing Aust. 11.30 Take Me Home. (PG, R) 12.30 Forging Champions. (PGl, R) 2.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 1 – H’lights. 5.00 News. 5.30 Postcards. (Return, PG)

6.00 9News Sunday.

7.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls) In the final two weddings, one bride takes a big leap of faith in an experiment first.

8.35 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 2 – Night. Coverage includes women’s downhill alpine skiing, men’s 10km cross-country skiing and men and women’s parallel giant slalom qualifiers and finals. 12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 2 – Post Midnight. 3.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 2 – Overnight. 5.30 Today. The latest in news and current affairs.

9GEM (81, 92)

6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm Harry’s Practice. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 Medical Emergency. 3.00 Better Homes. 4.00 The Amazing Homemakers. 4.55 Secrets Of Beautiful Gardens. 5.55 Escape To The Country. 6.55 Vicar Of Dibley. 8.30 Vera. 10.30 Miss Scarlet And The Duke. 11.30 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 7pm Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 2 – Night. 8.35 David Attenborough’s Frozen Planet II. 10.35 Major Crimes. 11.35 M*A*S*H. 12.05am MOVIE: That’ll Be The Day. (1973, M) 1.50 MOVIE: Victoria The Great. (1937) 4.05 My Favorite Martian. 4.30 Avengers. 5.30 Late Programs.

7MATE (64, 73) SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 3pm I Am Smokin’ Joe Frazier. 4.35 Stompem Ground. 5.15 Soh Presents: Generations And Dynasties. 6.45 Volcanic Odysseys. 7.35 Most Endangered Species New Zealand. 8.25 The Issue With Tissue. 10.35 MOVIE: The Chant Of Jimmie Blacksmith. (1978, M) 12.40am Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 10.00 Farm To Fork. (R) 10.30 GCBC. (R) 11.00 Well Traveller. (PGa, R) 11.30 Pooches At Play. (R) 12.00 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGal, R) 1.30 Lingo. (R) 2.30 Basketball. NBL. Round 20. South East Melbourne Phoenix v Sydney Kings. 4.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) 5.00 News.

6.30 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 7.00 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGal) Hosted by Julia Morris and Robert Irwin.

NITV (34) 6am Shopping. 9.00 I Fish. 9.30 On The

8.30 NCIS: Sydney. (Mv) The team is thrown into the murky world of online conspiracies after a car owned by a US Navy cyber engineer explodes just as her teenage daughter is about to take a driving lesson. 9.30 Law & Order: SVU. (Mav) Bruno suspects a bomb was planted to destroy DNA evidence and Benson investigates a connected murder. 10.30 NCIS: Origins. (Mav, R) Gibbs works a case involving a missing girl. 11.30 10 News+. (R) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

6am Morning Programs. 1pm Fishing Addiction. 2.00 Red’s Fishing Adventures. 2.30 Merv Hughes Fishing. 3.00 Pawn Stars. 4.00 Deep Water Salvage. 5.00 Counting Cars. 6.00 Border Security: Int. 7.00 Border Security. 8.30 MOVIE: Jason Bourne. (2016, M) 11.00 MOVIE: Skyscraper. (2018, M) 1.05am Late Programs.

9GO! (82, 93) 6am Morning Programs. 12.40pm Dating Amber. (2020, Mals) 2.20 Whale Rider. (2002, PGal) 4.15 Mr. Holmes. (2015, PGa) 6.10 Big Fish. (2003, PGav) 8.30 For A Few Dollars More. (1965, Mv) 11.00 Sundown. (2021, MA15+sv) 12.30am The Voyeurs. (2021, MA15+lnsv) 2.40 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 12.30pm Basketball. WNBL. Adelaide v Southside Melbourne Flyers. 2.30 Snackmasters. 3.50 LEGO Masters. 5.00 Young Sheldon. 5.30 MOVIE: Three Men And A Baby. (1987, PG) 7.30 MOVIE: Ocean’s Eleven. (2001, M) 10.00 MOVIE: Tango & Cash. (1989, M) Midnight Gotham. 1.00 Late Programs.

Monday, February 9

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

SEVEN (6, 7)

NINE (8, 9) 6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Midsomer Murders. (Mv, R) 11.30 Back Roads. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 The Great Australian Bee Challenge. (Final, R) 2.00 Parliament. 3.00 Would I Lie To You? (Final, PG, R) 3.30 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 4.00 Love Your Garden. (PG, R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30.

8.00 Australian Story. Australians tell personal stories.

8.30 Four Corners. A continued look at the Bondi Beach terror attacks.

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

9.35 Planet America. A look at American politics.

10.05 Dr Karl’s How Things Work: Boots. (R)

10.35 ABC Late News.

10.50 The Business. (R)

11.10 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PG, R) 11.40 Love Your Garden. (PG, R) 12.25 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.15 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

4.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

6am Morning Programs. 12.05 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News Compass Points. 1.30 Al Jazeera News Hour. 2.00 Karnak: The Largest Temple In The World. (R) 3.05 Going Places. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Secrets Of The Killer Mega Shark. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Inside The Tower Of London. (Return) The Constable’s Dues is prepared.

8.30 8 Out Of 10 Cats Does Countdown. (M) Game show, featuring contestants tackling a words and numbers quiz. Hosted by Jimmy Carr.

9.25 Never Mind The Buzzcocks. (M) Hosted by Greg Davies. 10.05 SBS World News Late. 10.35 Other People’s Money. (Premiere, Mn)

11.30 Vigil. (Malv, R) 2.30 The Great House Revival. (R) 3.30 Rediscover Victoria. (Mls, R) 4.00 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6.00 Sunrise. 10.00 NFL. Super Bowl LX. Seattle Seahawks v New England Patriots. 3.00 The Chase. Hosted by Bradley Walsh. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. Hosted by Larry Emdur.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGa)

7.30 Australian Idol. (PGal) Hosted by Ricki-Lee Coulter and Scott Tweedie.

9.15 9-1-1. (Mav) As Athena and Hen navigate their way back home, Athena is forced to confront what it means to live without Bobby.

10.15 I Cut Off His Penis: The Truth Behind The Headlines. (MA15+av) Looks at more tales of people who have committed this act.

11.15 Crime Investigation

Australia: Most Infamous: The Family Murders. (MA15+av, R) 12.35 Conviction. (MA15+av, R)

1.35 Harry’s Practice. (R)

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R) 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. (PGls, R) 1.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 2 – H’lights. From Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. (PG) 5.30 WIN News.

6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) After nine weddings, the next phase of the experiment begins. The couples come face-to-face with each other for the first dinner party of the season.

9.05 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 3 – Night. Coverage includes men’s team downhill alpine skiing, women’s ice hockey and freestyle skiing slopestyle finals.

12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 3 – Post Midnight.

3.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 3 – Overnight.

5.30 Today. The latest in news and current affairs.

TEN (5, 10)

6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! (PGal) Hosted by Julia Morris and Robert Irwin. 9.00 Matlock. (PGad) Matty and Olympia continue to test the boundaries of their friendship while helping a group of nuns. 10.00 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 11.00 10 News+. (R) Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 11.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R)

7TWO (62, 72) SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 3.30pm Wiggle. 4.10 Andy’s Aquatic Adventures. 4.35 Vida The Vet. 5.40 Kangaroo Beach. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.25 Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Deadly 60. 8.35 TKO: Total Knock Out. 9.15 Kids BBQ Championship. 9.55 Merlin. 10.40 Late Programs.

NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs.

11.55 The Issue With Tissue. 2pm Kriol Kitchen. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.30 The 77 Percent. 6.00 Bamay. 6.40 Volcanic Odysseys. 7.30 Who Do You Think You Are?

6am Morning Programs. 2.30pm Mastermind Aust. 3.30 WorldWatch. 4.25 PBS News Compass Points. 4.55 WorldWatch. 5.25 The Fast History Of. 6.15 Curse Of Oak Island. (Return) 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Triumph: Jesse Owens & The Berlin Games. 10.05 The Secret DNA Of Us. 11.15 Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)

9GEM (81, 92)

ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 2pm Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Civil War. (2024, MA15+) 10.40 Seinfeld. 11.40 The 100. 12.35am Love Island UK. 1.30 The Vampire Diaries. (Final) 2.25 Surfing Aust. 2.55 Late Programs.

8.30 Karla Grant Presents. 9.30 MOVIE: Ghosts Of Mississippi. (1996, M) 11.45 Turn Up Respect. 12.05am Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 11.45 For A Few Dollars More. (1965, Mv) 2.15pm Mia And The White Lion. (2018, PGal) 4.05 Eloise At The Plaza. (2003) 5.50 Madison. (2020, PGal, German) 7.30 La La Land. (2016, Ml) 9.50 One Of A Kind. (2023) 11.45 Falcon Lake. (2022, Mls) 1.40am Sundown. (2021, MA15+sv) 3.10 Late Programs.

Tuesday, February 10

ABC TV (2)

SBS (3)

6.00 News Breakfast. 9.00 News. 10.00 Aust Story. (R) 10.30 Planet America. (R) 11.00 Human. (PG, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Call The Midwife. (Ma, R) 2.00 Parliament. 3.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 3.30 Anh’s Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 4.00 Love Your Garden. (R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6am Morning Programs. 10.50 Mountain Vets. (PGa, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Queens Of Ancient Egypt. (PGa, R) 3.00 Going Places. (PG, R) 3.30 Plat Du Tour. (R) 3.35 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Secrets Of The Tasmanian Tiger. (PG, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30.

8.00 Dr Karl’s How Things Work: Ice Cream.

8.30 Mission To Space With Francis Bourgeois. (Premiere) Presented by Francis Bourgeois. 9.20 Grand Designs Transformations: Booker Bay Studio And St Peters Extension. (PG, R) Two properties are transformed.

10.35 ABC Late News. 10.50 The Business. (R) 11.05 Four Corners. (R) 11.50 Media Watch. (PG, R) 12.10 Love Your Garden. (R) 1.00 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.45 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv)

4.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

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

7.30 Who Do You Think You Are? Camilla Franks. (PGa, R) Camilla Franks explores her roots.

8.35 MOVIE: I Am Raquel Welch. (2025) Celebrates the life of trailblazing actress and single mother Raquel Welch. Nina Colman, Eugenio Derbez. 10.10 Rock Legends: Diana Ross And The Supremes. 10.40 SBS World News Late. 11.10 Exit. (MA15+ads) 12.05 DNA. (Malv, R) 1.50 We Hear You. (PG, R) 2.40 The Great House Revival. (R) 4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

6am Morning Programs. Noon DW The Day. 12.30 Homicide. 2.20 Mastermind Aust. 3.25 WorldWatch. 5.25 The Fast History Of. 6.15 Curse Of Oak Island. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Shark. (Premiere) 10.20 Casketeers Life & Death Across The Globe. 11.15 Out Of Bounds. (Premiere) 12.45am Then You Run. 2.30 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. Noon Australian Idol. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 This Rugged Coast. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Doc Martin. 8.30 Endeavour. 10.30 Air Crash Inv: Accident Files. 11.30 Doc Martin. 12.30am Bargain Hunt. 1.30 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 7.30pm Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 3 – Night. 9.05 The Brokenwood Mysteries. (Return) 11.05 London Kills. 12.05am M*A*S*H. 1.05 Creflo. 1.35 MOVIE: The Tales Of Hoffmann. (1951) 4.05 London Kills. 5.00 M*A*S*H. 5.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 3 – Early Morning.

7MATE (64, 73)

6am Morning Programs. 1.30pm Rides Down Under: Workshop Wars. 2.30 Motor Racing. Alpine Rally of East Gippsland. Replay. 3.30 Tougher In Alaska. 4.30 American Resto. 5.00 Storage Wars. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Outback Opal Hunters. 9.30 Aussie Salvage Squad. 10.30 Mighty Planes. 11.30 Late Programs.

9GO! (82, 93)

SEVEN (6, 7)

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Seven News With Alex Cullen. 1.10 Blankety Blank. (PGa, R) 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia. 6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. (Mls, R) 1.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 3 – H’lights. From Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG) 4.00 9News

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGad)

7.30 Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo. (PG) From Edinburgh Castle, Scotland.

9.30 Doc. (Ma) A popular weight loss medication reveals the cracks in a couple’s relationship. Two sisters face an unexpected diagnosis.

10.30 St. Denis Medical. (PGal) Alex tries to impress her old charge nurse.

11.30 Autopsy USA: Anthony Bourdain. (Madl, R) 12.30 Childhood’s End. (Premiere, Mav)

2.30 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R)

5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

6.00 9News.

7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) Revelations week, the new phase of the experiment, is revealed. Over two nights, a new task is revealed and the photo ranking returns where connections and cracks start to form.

9.15 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 4 – Night. Coverage includes short track mixed team relay finals, 500m and 1000m qualifiers, women’s alpine skiing and men’s moguls qualifiers.

12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 4 – Post Midnight. 3.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 4 – Overnight. 5.30 Today.

9GEM (81, 92)

6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (R) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! Hosted by Julia Morris and Robert Irwin. 9.00 NCIS. (Mmv) Reeling from his father’s

Morning Programs. Noon Australian Idol. 2.00 Creek To Coast. 2.30 Air Crash Inv: Accident Files. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Call The Midwife. 8.45 Judge John Deed. 10.45 Northern Lights. 11.45 Bargain Hunt. 12.45am Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 7.30pm Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 4 – Night. 9.15 Agatha Christie’s Marple. 11.15 Miniseries: The Pale Horse. 12.15am M*A*S*H. 1.15 Creflo. 1.45 MOVIE: Operation Bullshine. (1959) 3.30 Miniseries: The Pale Horse. 4.30 M*A*S*H. 5.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 4 – Early Morning.

7MATE (64, 73) SBS WORLD MOVIES (32) 6am Morning Programs. 2pm Kriol

7TWO (62, 72) SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 2.15pm Peter Rabbit. 2.45 The Makery. 3.05 Play School. 3.30 Wiggle. 4.10 Andy’s Safari Adventures. 4.35 Vida The Vet. 5.40 Kangaroo Beach. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.25 Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Deadly 60. 8.35 Whale With Steve Backshall. 9.25 Planet Weird. 10.15 Late Programs. ABC FAMILY (22) 6am Morning Programs. 2pm Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Expend4bles. (2023, MA15+) 10.30 Seinfeld. 11.30 The 100. 12.25am Love Island UK. 1.25 Kardashians: The Billion Dollar Dynasty. 2.25 Surfing Aust. 2.55 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 11.30 American Pickers. 12.30pm Pawn Stars. 1.30 Outback Opal Hunters. 3.30 Tougher In Alaska. 4.30 American Resto. 5.00 Storage Wars. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Outback Truckers. 9.30 Railroad Australia. 10.30 Deadliest Roads. 12.30am Storage Wars. 1.00 American Pickers. 2.00 Late Programs. 9GO! (82, 93) 6am Morning Programs. 11.50 La La Land. (2016, Ml) 2.10pm Mr. Holmes. (2015, PGa) 4.05 Roxane. (2019, PGals, French) 5.45 Enigma. (1982, PGasv) 7.35 Walkabout. (1971, Maln) 9.30 The Blue Caftan. (2022, Mans, Arabic) 11.45 Fathers And Mothers. (2022, Mdlns, Danish, Icelandic) 1.35am One Of A Kind. (2023) 3.30 Late Programs.

Wednesday, February 11

ABC TV (2) SBS (3)

6am Morning Programs. 10.15

Paddington Station 24/7. (PGa, R) 11.05

Britain By Beach. (PG, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00

SEVEN (6, 7)

NINE (8, 9) 6am Morning Programs. 11.00 All Creatures Great And Small Christmas Special. (Final, PG, R) 12.00 News. 12.30 Press Club. 1.35 Media Watch. (PG, R) 2.00 Parliament. 3.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 3.30 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.55 Love Your Garden. (R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG, R)

7.00 ABC News.

7.30 7.30.

8.00 Hard Quiz. (PGa) Hosted by Tom Gleeson.

8.30 The Weekly With Charlie Pickering. (PG) A satirical news program.

9.00 Dog Park. (M, R) Roland guides his daughter through a breakup.

9.30 QI. (Mls) Hosted by Sandi Toksvig. 10.00 Planet America. (R)

10.35 ABC Late News.

10.50 The Business. (R)

11.05 Live At The Wireless. (R) 11.55 Love Your Garden. (R) 12.40 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 1.30 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

6am Children’s Programs. 3.30pm Wiggle. 4.10 Andy’s Safari Adventures. 4.35 Vida The Vet. 5.40 Kangaroo Beach. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.25 Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Deadly 60. 8.55 Adv Time. 9.40 We Bare Bears. 9.55 Shaun Tan’s Tales From Outer Suburbia. 10.15 Late Programs.

NITV (34)

6am Morning Programs. Noon Piri’s Tiki Tour. 12.30 Unleash The Beast. 1.30 The Lake Winnipeg Project. 2.00 Kriol Kitchen. 2.30 The Cook Up. 3.00 Jarjums. 5.00 Harlem Globetrotters. 5.30 News. 6.00 Bamay. 6.40 Wild Survivors. 7.30 Shepherdess. 8.40 Earth Oven. 9.30 MOVIE: Steel Magnolias. (1989, PG) 11.35 Late Programs.

PBS News. 2.00 Queens Of Ancient Egypt. (Mav, R) 3.00 Going Places. (R) 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Race For The Sky. (PGalv, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Mastermind Australia. (R)

6.30 SBS World News.

7.35 Saving Yellowstone: In The Valley. (PG)

8.30 Seven Wonders Of The Ancient World: The Colossus Of Rhodes And The Statue Of Zeus At Olympia. (PG, R) Bettany Hughes sets sail to Greece.

9.25 Trespasses. (Mls) Tensions rise at school and home as Cushla’s affair deepens.

10.20 SBS World News Late. 10.50 Face To Face. (Ma, R) 11.40 Darkness: Those Who Kill. (Mav, R) 1.30 Golden Boy. (MA15+s, R) 2.20 The Great House Revival. (R) 4.15 Bamay. (R) 4.50 Destination Flavour China Bitesize. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31)

6am Morning

Programs. Noon DW The Day. 12.30 Stone Cold Takes On America. 1.15 Mastermind Aust. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.50 The Fast History Of. 6.15 Curse Of Oak Island. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 Adam Hills: The Last Leg. 9.20 MOVIE: Dangerous Liaisons. (1988, M) 11.35 Late Programs.

SBS WORLD MOVIES (32)

6am Morning Programs. 12.45pm Falcon Lake. (2022, Mls) 2.40 Discovering Film. 3.35 A Handful Of Dust. (1988, PG) 5.45 The Big Steal. (1990, PGls) 7.35 My Own Private Idaho. (1991, Madlns) 9.30 Bare. (2015, MA15+ds) 11.10 National Anthem. (2023, MA15+dlns) 1.05am Walkabout. (1971, Maln) 3.00 Late Programs.

6.00 Sunrise. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) 12.00 Seven’s National News At Noon. 1.00 Seven News With Alex Cullen. 1.10 Blankety Blank. (PGas, R) 2.00 Bridge Of Lies. 3.00 The Chase. 4.00 Seven News At 4. 5.00 The Chase Australia.

6.00 Seven News. 7.00 Home And Away. (PGad)

7.30 The 1% Club UK. (PGl) Hosted by Lee Mack.

8.30 Highway Patrol. (PGl) A driver lands in hot water when they head out for hot food in an unregistered car.

9.00 Operation Dark Phone: Murder By Text. (MA15+av) The authorities identify dangerous criminals, who, unaware they’ve been rumbled, continue to share their alarming plans.

10.00 Air Crash Investigations: Deadly Charter. (Return, PGa) A private jet crashes on approach to Aspen.

11.00 The Disappearance Of Gabby Petito. (Mav, R)

12.15 The Last Weekend. (Malv) 1.15 Travel Oz. (R) 2.00 Home Shopping. (R) 4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R) 5.00 Sunrise Early News. 5.30 Sunrise.

7TWO (62, 72)

6am Morning

Programs. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 Weekender. 2.30 House Calls To The Rescue. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Heartbeat. 8.45 Inspector George Gently. 10.45 The Queen Unseen. 11.45 Bargain Hunt. 12.45am Late Programs.

7MATE (64, 73)

6am Morning Programs. 12.30pm Pawn Stars. 1.30 Outback Truckers. 3.30 Tougher In Alaska. 4.30 American Resto. 5.00 Storage Wars. 5.30 American Pickers. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 Highway Patrol. 8.30 The Force: BTL. 9.30 Caught On Dashcam. 10.30 World’s Wildest Police Videos. 11.30 Live PD Presents: PD Cam. Midnight Late Programs.

Thursday, February 12

ABC TV (2)

SBS (3)

TEN (5, 10)

6.00 Today. 9.00 Today Extra. (PG) 11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. (Mls, R) 1.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 4 – H’lights. From Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. (PG) 5.30 WIN News.

6.00 9News. 7.00 A Current Affair.

7.30 Married At First Sight. (Mls) Revelations week sees the couples show some vulnerability as a new task begins. In front of peers, raw truths will be exposed, but it’s one grooms honesty that leaves the room speechless.

9.05 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 5 – Night. Coverage includes women’s snowboarding halfpipe and moguls and men’s super alpine skiing. 12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 5 – Post Midnight. 3.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 5 – Overnight. 5.30 Today. The latest in news and current affairs.

9GEM (81, 92)

6am Morning

Programs. 7.30pm Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 5 – Night. 9.05 Midsomer Murders. 11.05 The Madame Blanc Mysteries. 12.05am M*A*S*H. 1.05 Creflo. 1.35 MOVIE: Jules Verne’s Rocket To The Moon. (1967) 4.00 The Madame Blanc Mysteries. 5.00 M*A*S*H. 5.30 Late Programs.

9GO! (82, 93)

6am Morning Programs. 11.30 LEGO Masters: Grand Masters. 2pm Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: RoboCop. (2014, M) 10.55 Seinfeld. 11.55 The 100. 12.50am Love Island UK. 1.50 Kardashians: The Billion Dollar Dynasty. 2.55 Late Programs.

6.00 10 News+. Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 6.30 Deal Or No Deal. (PGa) Hosted by Grant Denyer. 7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! Hosted by Julia Morris and Robert Irwin. 9.00 Elsbeth. (PGav) A rivalry reaches a climax on Halloween night in Sleepy Hollow after a suburban housewife butts heads with a new neighbour. 10.00 10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 11.00 10 News+. (R) Hosted by Denham Hitchcock and Amelia Brace. 11.30 The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 12.30 Home Shopping. (R)

6.30 Hard Quiz. (PG,

master bedroom.

9.30 The Piano UK. (R) Hosted by Claudia Winkleman.

10.35 ABC Late News.

10.50 The Business. (R) 11.05 Love Your Garden. (R) 11.55 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 12.40 Rage. (MA15+adhlnsv) 4.00 Gardening Australia. (R) 5.00 A Bite To Eat With Alice. (R) 5.30 7.30. (R)

ABC FAMILY (22)

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

7.35 Toronto Airport Uncovered. (PG) Storms ground outbound flights. 8.25 Robson Green: World’s Most Amazing Walks. (PG) Robson Green explores an ancient trail along the Jurassic Coast in Dorset, UK. 9.20 In Flight. (Madlv) Sonny is kidnapped.

10.15 SBS World News Late. 10.45 Before We Die. (MA15+v, R) 11.40 Forest Of The Missing. (MA15+asv, R) 1.40 Silent Road. (Ma, R) 3.35 Celebrity Mastermind. (PG, R) 4.35 Bamay. (R) 5.00 NHK World English News Morning. 5.30 ANC Philippines The World Tonight.

SBS VICELAND (31) 6am Children’s Programs. 2.45pm The Makery. 3.05 Play School. 4.10 Andy’s Safari Adventures. 4.35 Vida The Vet. 5.40 Kangaroo Beach. 6.05 PJ Masks Power Heroes. 6.25 Paddington. 6.45 Ben And Holly. 7.05 Batwheels. 7.35 Ninjago. 8.00 Deadly 60. 8.35 Secrets Of The Zoo. 9.20 The Secret Life Of Our Pets. 10.10 Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 12.30pm DW The Day. 1.00 The Billionaires Who Made Our World. 1.55 Bamay. 2.15 Mastermind Aust. 2.45 Insight. 3.50 WorldWatch. 5.50 The Fast History Of. 6.15 Curse Of Oak Island. 7.05 Jeopardy! 7.35 8 Out Of 10 Cats. 8.30 History’s Greatest Mysteries. 10.05 Brassic. (Return) 12.05am Late Programs.

6.00 Sunrise. News, sport and weather. 9.00 The Morning Show. (PG) The latest news and views. 12.00 Golf. LIV Golf Adelaide. Day 1. 5.00 The Chase Australia. Contestants race to answer quiz questions correctly to avoid being caught by The Chaser.

SEVEN (6, 7) TEN (5, 10) 6am Morning Programs. 10.30 The Weekly. (Ml, R) 11.00 Creative Types. (PGv, R) 11.25 QI. (Mls, R) 12.00 News. 1.00 Bergerac. (Mv, R) 1.45 Camel Capers. (R) 2.00 Parliament. 3.00 Spicks And Specks. (PG, R) 3.30 Brush With Fame. (PG, R) 3.55 Love Your Garden. (R) 4.45 Long Lost Family. (PG, R) 5.30 Antiques Roadshow. (R) 6am Morning Programs. 10.15 Paddington Station 24/7. (PGl, R) 11.00 Britain By Beach. (PGa, R) 12.00 BBC News At Ten. 12.30 France 24. 1.00 PBS News. 2.00 Queens Of Ancient Egypt. (PGa, R) 3.00 Going Places. (R) 3.30 The Cook Up. (R) 4.05 Race For The Sky. (PGa, R) 5.05 Jeopardy! 5.30 Letters And Numbers. (R)

6.00 Seven News.

7.00 Home And Away. (PGad) Harper’s guilt surges. Cash struggles with the rules. Sonny’s frustration gets the better of him.

8.30 AFL Origin Countdown. A countdown to the AFL’s much-anticipated Origin clash.

10.00 Operation Dark Phone: Murder By Text. (MA15+av, R) The NCA are stunned when their French colleagues hack EncroChat.

11.15 To Be Advised.

1.00 Dare Me. (MA15+asv, R) Addy gets closer to Colette.

2.00 Home Shopping. (R)

4.00 Better Homes And Gardens. (R)

5.00 Sunrise Early News.

5.30 Sunrise.

7TWO (62, 72)

11.30 9News Morning. 12.00 Married At First Sight. (Mls, R) 1.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 5 – H’lights. From Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. 3.00 Tipping Point. (PG) 4.00 9News Afternoon. 4.30 Tipping Point Australia. (PG) 5.30 WIN News. 6am Morning Programs. 7.30 Farm To Fork. (R) 8.00

6.00 9News.

7.00 A Current Affair. 7.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 6 –Night. Coverage includes men’s skeleton runs, snowboard cross, moguls qualifiers and finals and women’s super alpine skiing.

12.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 6 – Post Midnight. Coverage includes men’s snowboard cross final and women’s 10km cross-country skiing and 5000m speed skating final.

3.00 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 6 – Overnight.

5.30 Today. The latest in news and current affairs.

9GEM (81, 92)

6am Morning Programs. Noon Better Homes. 1.00 Escape To The Country. 2.00 South Aussie With Cosi. 2.30 The Queen Unseen. 3.30 Harry’s Practice. 4.00 Medical Emergency. 4.30 Better Homes. 5.30 Escape To The Country. 6.30 Bargain Hunt. 7.30 Father Brown. 8.30 The Inspector Lynley Mysteries. 10.30 Murdoch Mysteries. 11.30 Late Programs. 6am Morning Programs. 7.30pm TBA. 8.30 MOVIE: Mermaids. (1990, PG) 10.45 Major Crimes. 11.45 Recipes For Love And Murder. 12.45am Innovation Nation. 1.00 Creflo. 1.30 MOVIE: Dulcima. (1971, PG) 3.30 Recipes For Love And Murder. 4.30 M*A*S*H. 5.30 Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026. Day 6 – Early Morning.

6am Morning Programs. 2.30pm The Force: BTL. 3.30 Desert Collectors. 4.30 American Resto. 5.00 LIV Golf League Post-Show Adelaide. 6.00 Storage Wars. 6.30 Pawn Stars. 7.30 More Power. 8.30 MOVIE: Sweet Home Alabama. (2002, PG) 10.50 MOVIE: Resident Evil: Welcome To Raccoon City. (2021, MA15+) 1.05am Late Programs. 9GO! (82, 93) 6am Morning Programs. 12.05pm My Own Private Idaho. (1991, Madlns) 2.00 Roxane. (2019, PGals, French) 3.35 Enigma. (1982, PGasv) 5.30 55 Steps. (2017, PGanv) 7.35 St. Vincent. (2014, Malsv) 9.30 The Mattachine Family. (2023, Malns) 11.20 Some Kind Of Beautiful. (2014, Madls) 1.10am Late Programs.

6am Morning Programs. 12.50pm Rugby Sevens. SVNS Series Perth. H’lights. 2.00 Golden Girls. 2.30 Nanny. 3.30 Seinfeld. 4.30 Addams Family. 5.00 Bewitched. 6.00 Golden Girls. 6.30 Nanny. 7.30 Seinfeld. 8.30 MOVIE: Jupiter Ascending. (2015, M) 11.00 Seinfeld. Midnight The 100. 12.50 Love Island UK. 1.50 Late Programs.

6.00 10 News+.

6.30 Deal Or No Deal.

7.00 Millionaire Hot Seat. (PG) Hosted by Rebecca Gibney. 7.30 Attenborough’s Parenthood: Jungles. (Final, PGa) David Attenborough looks at parenthood in the jungle. 8.40 The Graham Norton Show. (Mls) Timothée Chalamet, Emma Thompson, Rowan Atkinson and Edward Enninful join Graham Norton on the couch.

10’s Late News. Coverage of news, sport and weather. 10.50 10 News+. (R)

The Late Show With Stephen Colbert. (PG) 12.00 Home Shopping. (R)

Central Australia awaits

Autumn is the perfect time to visit Central Australia – the weather is great and there are plenty of events on to keep you busy, from the iconic Parrtjima (a week-long festival of light) to fabALICE, the Alice Springs Cup Carnival and the West Macs Monster Trail Running Festival - there is trulysomethingforeveryone.

For the sporting minded there is the Larapainta Trail to conquer, and hundreds ofkilometresofmountainbiketracks.

For the culture lover there are plenty of arts and music festivals on as well as a multitudeofartgalleriesintown.

Download the full events schedule on thediscovercentralaustralia.comwebsite.

And any time of the year there are fortnightly markets with crafts, food, jewellery and more, the amazing Alice SpringsDesertParkandReptileCentre,the scenicWestandEastMacDonnellNational Parks, history galore with the Royal Flying Doctor Museum, Central Australia Museum, Connellan Aviation Museum, National Road Transport Museum and Old GhanMuseum.

Plan your trip now, but remember there is so much to do you will need at least a week.

Call Wintersun Cabin & Caravan Park nowtomakeabooking.

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NEW RIVER VOYAGES BROCHURE

Cycling fun in Geelong

It was a great weekend for racing as the region welcomed back the Mapei Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road races. Independent photographer Ivan Kemp went along on 31 January to catch Ally Wollaston win the women’s race for the second year in a row.

Digging deep for RCH

Withfiresandfloodswreakinghavocacross the state, volunteers in the Geelong region are putting their hands up to help others.

Local volunteer area manager for the 2026 Royal Children’s Hospital (RCH) Good Friday Appeal (GFA) Peter McMahonpraisedtheeffortsofthosevolunteers, including many locals he knows.

“Despite their great efforts in emergencies, they also jump in to raise critical funds for the GFA,” Mr McMahon said.

“Volunteers power the GFA fundraising throughout regional Victoria, including Torquay and its surrounds.

“For the past several years, Victorian volunteers have successfully raised millionsfortheGoodFridayAppealincluding millions distributed to local health services to help them achieve excellence in paediatric treatment not only in the RCH itself, but now also in our very own local health services.

“Last year, the RCH invested $3 million in regional health services, increasing their capability and keeping patients closer to home.”

Mr McMahon said the Geelong region benefitted directly from the RCH’s investment.

“Barwon South West Health Services, including Barwon Health, won a share of the $3 million regional paediatric investment, providing a significant boost to our regional health services,” he said.

“The funds support critical projects such as upgrading lifesaving equipment, offering additional training, and providing scholarships for healthcare professionals.”

Mr McMahon said Torquay’s Lions Club and the Mt Duneed Men’s Shed had

already raised valuable dollars toward the local target of $100,000 through sausage sizzles at Bunnings Waurn Ponds.

“So far, the two groups have raised $10,000 towards the Good Friday Appeal,” he said.

“Think of the number of young people and families adversely affected by the fires

andfloodsanditiseasytounderstandwhy it is critical to expand the RCH excellence to the regions to save travel, where possible, to Melbourne.”

Contact Peter McMahon on 0411 112 047 or at ben.bon1@bigpond.com for information on how to volunteer.

Summer fun in the civic precinct

The City of Greater Geelong kicked off a new initiative this week aimed at bringing the community together.

Yesterday the City hosted the first of its Lunch on the Lawns Summer Series, with community members gathering to support local traders, eat lunch and relax on the lawns outside Wurriki Nyal while listening to live music.

Mayor Stretch Kontelj said the initiative was all about bringing people together and letting the community enjoy the City’s Civic Precinct.

“The revitalisation of central Geelong has been a key priority of mine, and one of the themes identified in last year’s forums has been the need for activation of what we already have,” he said.

“Following the overwhelming success of the Geelong City Market, I want to do something on weekdays, which is why we are activating our lawns on Thursdays in February.”

“It’s going to be amazing to see workers from the surrounding buildings and the broader community come together and enjoy some live music and summer treats while supporting local businesses and musical talent.”

More free Lunch on the Lawns events will be held on 12, 19 and 26 February noon to 2pm at Wurriki Nyal, 137-149 Mercer St, Geelong.

Fighting fit at 100

Point Lonsdale’s Carmen Ward had a fairly typical birthday this year; some cupcakes, balloons and an exercise session.

Fairly typical, that is, except this year Mrs Ward celebrated turning 100.

In recognition of her milestone birthday, Mrs Ward received a congratulatory letter from King Charles and messages from various other dignitaries, but she played down the significance of the occasion.

“Well, I think it’s just another day, and I’ve told my friends and people around that it’s over now, and I’m just here, and I’m very fortunate, and we just keep on living,” she said.

A resident of the charming seaside town since retiring there with her late husband in 1984, Mrs Ward credits her weekly session with Bellarine Community Health’s (BCH) Mobility Plus exercise program as an important factor in her health, wellbeing and longevity.

“I remember doing meals on wheels a few years ago, and I’d go into these homes down here and here were these poor old things sitting in the chair all day, not moving at all. AndIthought,that’snotthewaytolive,“she said. “We’re mainly sitting on our chairs, and standing up, but nothing too strenuous. We’re all older. But it keeps you going, and it’s nice to come and see other people.”

MrsWardcontinuestoliveindependently at home, and in addition to participating in the weekly BCH exercise session she maintains a daily walking routine.

She encouraged other older people to find ways to stay active and said she would continue with the Mobility Plus program for as long as possible “because it keeps you mobile, and you’re meeting people, and it’s just another day out”.

Mosque opens to community

Geelong’s community have a chance to explore, learn and connect with the Islamic culture during an Open Mosque Day.

Islamic Society of Geelong will host art activities, henna art, hijab demonstrations, and a guided tour of Geelong Mosque during the open day to support community ties and promote inclusivity.

President Ahmed Elzahbi said the event was open to everyone in the community, regardless of religion and was a chance for people to see what goes on in the mosque.

“I’m looking forward to getting to know more people and for people getting to know us,” he said.

“The community can ask questions about Islam, about why we, with the hijab,whywedothingsthewaywedo it, and everybody is welcome.

“It’s just a showcase for the people around the area, or anybody, to come in and say hello, ask questions and just see what we do, culture-wise.”

Mr Elzahbi said people were welcome to learn more about the Islamic culture anytime, with the door always open for the community.

“We’re all born the same with zero knowledge, then we learn everything from this earth...so, hopefully we can build friendships with more people,” he said.

The Open Mosque Day will be held on Saturday 7 February from 11am at Geelong Mosque in Mainifold Heights.

PUZZLES

To solve a Sudoku puzzle, every number from 1 to 9 must appear in: each of the nine vertical columns, each of the nine horizontal rows and each of the nine 3 x 3 boxes. Remember, no number can occur more than once in any row, column or box.

13 Loud and forceful (10)

15 Clergyman (9)

16 Clarified (9)

18 Orator (7)

19 Exaggeratedly enthusiastic (7)

20 Part of the limb remaining after amputation (5)

22 Brings up (5)

23 Yen (4)

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural nouns ending in “s”.

1 What is the world’s largest inland body of water?

2 Jennifer Saunders (pictured) and Joanna Lumley co-stared in which 90s British sitcom?

3 Which Beatles member’s solo work includes the 1973 album LivingintheMaterialWorld?

4 Cardamon, cinnamon, ginger, star anise and clove are commonly used in which spice mix?

5 In the fairytale, what three things does the miller’s daughter give

7

8

9

is quoted to have said: ‘If you want something said, ask a man; if you want something done, ask a woman.’

10 In 1967, the first ever human heart transplant was performed in which country?

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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

Aberdeen street baptist church

Aberdeen street baptist church invites you to join us each Sunday at 10am to worship, sing and enjoy traditional hymns and experience god’s love. Followed by a morning tea. All welcome

Ballroom dance

Leopold Hall, 805-809 Bellarine Highway, Saturday 7 February, 7.30-10.30pm, $10 includes supper, music.

 0400 500 402

Uniting Grovedale Book Sales

Book sales will be held on 7 February, 8 February, 6 March and 7 March at Uniting Grovedale, 272 Torquay Road, 10am-2pm. All books are only $1 and children’s books $0.50.

Mainly Music

Music and fun for preschoolers. Welcome Centre, St Mark’s, Vicarage Road, Leopold, Thursdays 9.30-11am. $5 per family per week.

 0461 582 618, or mmadmin@bgap.church

Geelong Patchwork & Quilter’s Guild Meets third Saturday of each month 10.30am-3.30pm, Newcomb Hall, Wilsons Road. Visitors welcome. $6 includes time to sit and sew, morning tea and guest speaker.

 info@geelongpatch.org.au

Leopold Library

Tuesdays 2-3pm - digital drop in for your basic tech needs

School holiday program details grlc.vic.gov.

au

 4201 0675

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

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

Grovedale East Ladies Probus Fourth Monday of each month, 9.30am, Belmont RSL.

 Sally Nelson, 0402 450 610

Waurn Ponds Combined Probus Fourth Wednesday of the month, 10am. Maximum 100 members.

 probussouthpacific.org/microsites/waurn

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

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

Geelong Harmony Chorus Women’s four-part harmony singing. All ages encouraged. Rehearsals Mondays 6.45pm at Herne Hill.

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

Geelong Welsh Ladies Choir

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

 0413 406 433, or welshladieschoir.com.au

Geelong Scout Heritage Centre Meets third Sunday of the month, 56 Russell Street, Newtown, 10am-3pm.

 0419 591 432, or geelong.heritage@scoutsvictoria.com.au

Ocean Grove Library

Tuesday 10 February 2-3pm - Knowing your sources online

Wednesday 18 February 3-4pm - tech help,

Tennis at Bell Post Hill

A new Hot Shots Program for beginners, 7 to 10 years old. Will be held on Monday afternoons on Creamery Road from the 9th of February for 8 Weeks with 4.15pm or 4.45pm sessions. Book online at Western Heights Uniting Tennis Club, (under Coaching BPH).  Evie, 0409 433 772

drop-in session for basic tech needs.

Mondays (resumes 2 February)

10.30-11.30am - preschool story time

Tuesdays (resumes 3 February) 4-5pmyouth collective (ages 12-18)

Wednesdays (resumes 4 February)

9.30-10am - toddler time

Thursdays 11.30-11.50am - baby time

Thursdays (resumes 5 February)

3.45-4.45pm - after-school program

Chess clubs

Ocean Grove, Tuesdays at 1.30pm at 101

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

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

Dancer’s Club Geelong

Ballroom dance weekly, Leopold Hall

7.30-10.30pm. Admission $8 includes supper. Old time, New Vogue and Latin. CDs by Kevin and Tre.

 Russ, 5250 1937

Life Activities Club [Geelong Inc]

Arvo tea dance every Thursday, Belmont Pavilion, 2-4pm, $5 entry.

 Val, 5251 3529

Belmont Combined Probus

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

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

Barwon Valley Belmont Probus

First Thursday of the month, 10am, Waurn Ponds Hotel.

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

Lectures

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

Sports

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

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

 Maureen, 0429 397 015

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

 artsnational.au

Live music

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

 Dawn, 0417 148 493

GROW Australia

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

 grow.org.au, or 1800 558 268

Grovedale Seniors

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

 Julie, 0419 549 521

Drysdale Day VIEW

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

 Margaret, 0431 636 090

Table tennis

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

 Allen, 0433 883 116

Leopold VIEW

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

 leopold.viewclub@gmail com

Geelong Day VIEW

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

 geelongdayview@gmail.com

Chess

Group chess lessons at Geelong West. Suitable for beginners who have a reasonably firm understanding of the game rules. Kids and adults welcome.

 Isaac, isaacsmith5603@gmail.com or 0406 199 457

Writers’ group

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

 dorothy.johnston@hugonet.com.au

Geelong Evening VIEW

Third Monday of the month, 6pm, Waurn Ponds Hotel.

 Von, 0414 930 259, or geelongeveningview@gmail.com

Laughter Club Geelong Saturdays, 9am, Eastern Beach in front of the swimming enclosure. 30-minutes free laughter yoga done standing or seated.  0418 521 265

Lions Club International Enjoy meeting great people and help out your community at the same time. Clubs all over greater Geelong - see which one is right for you.

 Les, 0428 466 446

Grovedale Marshall Probus

Second Thursday of the month,10am, The Grovedale Hub, 45 Heyers Road, Grovedale.  Anne, 0425 356 973

Community kitchen

Do you enjoy cooking or want to learn cooking and budgeting skills with a small group of like-minded people in your community? Are you interested in volunteering to facilitate a Community Kitchen?

 healthycommunities@barwonhealth.org. au

Croquet

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

 0428 740 591

Ocean Grove Senior Citizens 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove

Weekly

Tuesday: snooker 1pm, chess, indoor bowls 1.15pm. Wednesday: bingo 1.15pm, ukulele class 2pm, guitar jam session 4pm. Thursday: snooker 1pm, cards 500, social afternoons 1.15pm. Friday: art classes 9am.

Fortnightly

CWA 1st & 3rd Monday 2.30pm  Kareen, 0419 246 346, or Janis, 5255 4585

Monthly Inhouse Movies 3rd Wednesday 1.30pm.  Dianne, 5255 1372

Out and about

Independent photographer Ivan Kemp was at Geelong’s waterfront on Tuesday 3 February to see who was out and about enjoying some sun and warmer weather.

Tucson hybrid quick yet quiet

By Derek Ogden, Marque Motoring

Hyundai’s mid-sized SUV Tucson has been around since 2004.

The current (fourth generation) was released here in February 2021 with the latest (MY2025) upgrade launched here in mid-2024 and adding a hybrid variant for the first time.

Tucson comes with a choice of 17 variants with Tucson, Elite, Premium and N-Line equipment levels and the choice of 2.0-litrenaturallyaspiratedpetrol,1.6-litre turbo-petrol and 1.6-litre turbo-petrol hybrid powertrains as well as two or all-wheel drive.

The Tucson has plenty of pull, boasting a 1900kgtowingcapacity,plusafirst-in-class panoramiccurved12.3-inchinfotainment/ driver display backed by wireless Apple CarPlay, Bluelink, connected car services and over-the-air remote software updates.

The maker’s SmartSense safety system now has Highway Driving Assist, while a new head-up display presents important driving and navigation information. On test was the Tucson Elite Hybrid N Line front-wheel drive, selling for $48,600, plus on-road costs.

The new hybrids are covered by Hyundai’s five-year unlimited kilometre vehicle warranty and eight-year 160,000 kilometre high-voltage battery warranty, as well as Hyundai’s Lifetime Service Plan, Premium Roadside Support and satellite navigation updates.

STYLING

We love the adventurous styling route that Hyundai has taken with the Tucson.

The large hatched grille gives a bolder look than before and is fringed by five LED daytime running lights in a crescent formation. The headlights are full LED and automatically adjust to the sides for improved cornering visibility.

Our test vehicle came with the optional NLinepackconsistingofexclusive19-inch wheels, grille, front bumper and skid plate, plus N Line badging. The rear sports a new rear bumper, skid plate and twin exhaust outlets.

Interior

The MY25 cabin has been given the once-over to especially appeal to the lifestyle active family. The steering column has a mounted drive-by-wire shift selector and floating centre console.

The Elite and Premium variants feature classy leather appointed seats for up to five while the N Line pack goes further with black leather and suede, red stitching, plus exclusive N Line seat and steering wheel emblems.

General storage includes large door pockets and a deep lidded console box. Cargo space runs from 582 litres to 1903 litres depending on the seats in use. The spare wheel is a space saver variety. A height and speed adjustable tailgate is operable via a button on the key fob or by simply standing at the back of the vehicle with the key.

Infotainment

A 12.3-inch touchscreen, introducing Hyundai’snextgenerationuserinterface,is standardacrossthe2025Tucsonrangeand comes up with four times the computing power and 15 times the graphical processing power of the previous system.

A host of functions is led by wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, AM/ FM/DAB radio, Hyundai Bluelink, Bluetooth multiconnection, USB-C input, quick control (swipe down) menu, and over-the-air updates.

EliteandPremiumvariantsaddBluelink

sat nav with turn-by-turn directions, live traffic updates, voice control, SMS

RATINGS

Looks: 8/10

Performance: 7/10

Safety: 8/10

Thirst: 8/10

Practicality: 7/10

Comfort: 7/10

Tech: 7/10

Value: 8/10

playback and split screen function.

Bluelink connection is free for the first five years and includes automatic collision notification,emergencycallaccess,remote control climate and vehicle functions, among other things.

A similar-size configurable digital instrument cluster takes on a classic look with needle-style gauges. Hybrid versions can be customised to display a power gauge or tachometer. Depending on the drive mode.

Engines/transmissions

Tucson Elite N-Line test vehicle was powered by a 1.6-litre 4-cylinder turbo-petrol/electrichybridsystem,mated with a six-speed automatic transmission, driving the front wheels.

The petrol motor put out 132kW of power and 264 Nm of torque.

The electric motor contributed a further 47.7kW of power, making a combined maximum of 172kW. The latter made use of a lithium-ion polymer battery of 1.49kWh and 270 volts.

Safety

The Tucson Hybrid has a five-star ANCAP safety rating on 2021 testing. The vehicle body features high-strength, lightweight construction to maximise torsional rigidity.

Active safety comes with Hyundai’s SmartSense suite, which includes forward collision avoidance, lane keeping assist, blind spot collision avoidance, safe exit warning, driver attention warning, high beam assist and smart cruise control.

A surround 360-degree view of the car and rear-view monitor, plus distance warning, are a great help when parking.

Driving Quick, yet quiet is the best way to describe the Tucson hybrid’s behaviour. The turbo dialsupthepower,whiletheelectricmotor plays its part in smooth going, as does the six-speed auto transmission.

Road noise on coarse road surfaces is the only intrusion into the cabin. The suspension coped with generally few

complaints, while the brakes had their sharp side if rushed into action.

Gear selector is a twist-shift to the right of the steering column which takes some getting used to but clears the way for an uncluttered centre-console controls such as drive modes.

These include Eco and Sport, of which the latter added sharpness all round to the drive.

Smart mode switched the car between Eco and Sport to ostensibly maximise economy and performance, if that’s possible.

Hyundai claims combined urban/ highway fuel consumption of 5.3 litres per 100km. The test vehicle came up with 4.6 litres per 100km on the motorway and averaged up to 9 litres per 100km during a week’s running around town.

Summary

It’s anybody’s guess whether buyers will take the hybrid route to Tucson electric vehicles. It’s a veritable traffic jam in this segment.

Cooler conditions welcomed

With blistering heat wreaking havoc on local cricket last weekend, cooler conditions greeted players on Saturday 31 January and Independent photographer Ivan Kemp went to the GCA2 game between Marshall and Bannockburn at Lawn Addicts Oval, Belmont and the BPCA A2 Grade clash between Wallington and Portarlington at Steeline Reserve, Wallington.

Division 2 bowls heats up

Sprint ace rides to victory

By Roger Vaughan, AAP

Ally Wollaston’s historic win at the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race came with a language warning, thanks to her joyful rehashing of the team motto.

The New Zealand sprint ace capped an outstanding performance from FDJ United-Suez on Saturday in Geelong to successfully defend the women’s title.

Sheisthefirstwomen’sormen’smultiple winner of the Cadel Evans race since its 2015 inception.

As Wollaston celebrated with teammates seconds after easily sprinting to the win, theracecoveragepickedupsomecolourful language which she later revealed was the motto her team used at the same race a year earlier.

“I don’t think I said it this year. I don’t actually know if I’m supposed to be saying that any more,” she said.

“But last year’s motto was ’f**k yeah’.”

Embarrassed, Wollaston briefly paused and added “s**t”.

“I’m trying to stop that one, actually. My teammates definitely use it more than I do,” she said.

“But yeah, it’s a good motto and it’s a real spirit-of-the-moment thing when we come across the line.”

Victory capped a prolific three-week

WorldTour campaign for the team in Australia, with Wollaston also winning two stages at Adelaide’s Tour Down Under.

Even more than her wins earlier this month, Wollaston’s triumph on Saturday in the Mapei-sponsored race was all about team.

She had been ill after Adelaide and Saturday’s two crucial climbs up Challambra Crescent inside the last 30km of Saturday’s 142.2km race had her struggling.

The New Zealander was twice dangling off the back of the race at the summit, only for teammates to make sure she rejoined the front group.

After the second climb, a front group of fivenearlyachievedtheirgoalofdistancing Wollaston - clearly the best sprinter among the contenders.

But Dutch teammate Amber Kraakwho also earned plaudits for her tireless domestique work at the Tour Down Under - and British rider Lauren Dickson made sure Wollaston rejoined them.

So it became a group of 12 and Wollaston predictably dominated at the finish.

“There was a pretty impressive split ... if I didn’t have my teammates, the race would have been gone, for sure,” Wollaston said of the race situation after the second Challambra climb.

“Once that came back, I knew I was in with a really good chance.

“My teammates did an incredible job to get me back to the front end of the race.”

Wollaston’s struggles on the first Challambra climb knocked her

confidence, but again team support kept the 25-year-old’s head in the race.

“The team believed in me arguably more than I believed in myself today - I am so thankful,” she said.

“They just kept me grounded and I had a few tough words in my race radio, saying I could do it. The belief was pretty strong from the team.”

Wollaston’s Australian partner Kelland O’Brien, who will race on Sunday in the men’s event, celebrated with her.

“Obviously seeing him at the end was really amazing - probably the highlight of my day, actually,” she said.

British rider Josie Nelson (Team Picnic PostNL) was second and Spain’s Mireia Benito (AG Insurance-Soudal) completed the podium.

Newly crowned Australian road champion Mackenzie Coupland (Liv AlUla Jayco) was fourth, again confirming the WorldTour rookie is a massive talent.

At the other end of the spectrum, much-respected Australian Amanda Spratt (Lidl Trek) finished 36th in her last domestic race. She will retire at the end of this season.

The men’s race on Sunday will be the career swansong for compatriot Simon Clarke, like Spratt one of cycling’s most respected competitors.

‘Timing is crucial’: Andresen pounces for Cadel win

By Roger Vaughan, AAP

Tobias Lund Andresen confidently predicted he’d win and rival Matthew Brennan’s mistake made sure that prophecy came true.

Thedifferenceinbodylanguagebetween the two sprinters told the story after Sunday’s Cadel Evans Great Ocean Race.

Andresen was bursting with excitement, having claimed the Geelong race for the first time. Brennan’s shoulders slumped when he tried a quick escape from the podium presentation, only for journalists to ask for a comment.

Brennan mistimed his sprint at the end of the 183.8km race, ensuring fellow recent Tour Down Under stage winner Lund Andresen would come over the top and relegate him to second place.

Australian Brady Gilmore continued an excellent start to his debut WorldTour season by finishing third.

It’s the third time that Lund Andresen’s Australian team boss Luke Roberts has orchestrated a win in the men’s Cadel Evans race.

“Thetimingofthe(final)sprintiscrucial,” was Roberts’ classic understatement.

Brennan, a WorldTour revelation last season, said he simply got his wrong.

“Ithoughtthefinishlinewas100mcloser - I thought it was 200 to go, but when I read it, it was 300,” the British rider said.

“Once you go, you just have to commit. I need to get my eyes tested, let’s say that.” As always, the race came down to four lapsofthe21.4kmGeelongfinishingcircuit, punctuated by the steep Challambra Crescent climb.

Andresen, Brennan and Gilmore were in a front group of 21 for the last few kilometres.

Andresen and Roberts were surprised - and delighted - when Brennan’s bright-yellowVisma-LeaseABikejerseyhit the front so early in the final sprint.

“I feel like he didn’t have to, but ... I would have done the same. It’s just a small mistake by him,” Andresen said.

“For me, it was pretty nice.” But for the Dane, winning was no

accident after a power of work from his Decathlon teammates.

“I told the guys with one lap to go, if they put me in the perfect position ... I will win the race,” he said.

“I was feeling good and I put myself out there. It worked out.”

It was also a big day for Gilmore, whose venerated NSN teammate and compatriot Simon Clarke raced for the last time.

They have been roommates since a NovembertrainingcampandGilmoresaid Clarke’s influence has been “massive”.

“It was a bit of an emotional morning

actually, just knowing he’s not going to be racing with us any more,” Gilmore said.

“A guy who’s been pro for that long, he’s the sort of guy that when he learns something, he analyses it as well.

“He’s probably the most underrated bike rider in the peloton and he’s probably also one of the craftiest.”

Gilmore also had a refresher mid-race that cycling is a contact sport.

He said he was hit in the face by a Uno X-Mobility rider after a misunderstanding at a feed zone, with more words between them at the finish.

“Idon’tknowwhosefaultitwas,”Gilmore said.

“But I was just trying to follow my teammatesandhewantedtogetthebottle. He basically smacked me in the face and then he had a go at me.

“So I was like ’come and see me after the race’. Then he came up to me and I was like ‘what was that?’

“It was just a couple of words exchanged. It was all an accident ... bike racing.”

DefendingchampionMauroSchmidwas fourth, ending a tough domestic campaign for the Australian Jayco AlUla team.

Tight run home for finals aspirants with four rounds to go

LOCAL TENNIS

Donna Schoenmaekers

Saturday Junior and Senior Pennants recommenced in Tennis Geelong competition with four rounds to go for most sections.

Section 1 Boys has been a close competition all season and this week it showed with six of the eight teams moving ladder positions.

It was a battle of seventh vs eighth when Barwon Heads travelled to Surfcoast Jan Juc with both teams still an outside chance of making the four. The match was closer than the scoreline indicated with four of the sets decided 7-5 or in a tie-break.

Sienna Clatworthy and Tom Kemp performed well, winning their singles 6-1 whileAaryaNorigotthroughinatie-break and Nina Grigsby 7-5.

BarwonHeadsgotontheboardwhenTed Reid and Ollie Schirmer won their doubles 7-5, but Grigsby and Kemp rounded out a

5-1 win to push Surfcoast into seventh, but closed the gap to 13.5 points away from fourth.

Western Heights Uniting maintained sixth position with a 5-1 win over Geelong Lawn, who dropped from second to third. Louis Smith, Archer Youla, Max Drake and Jensen Fenske were too strong for Lawn with Elijah Jewell winning the fourth singles Lawn’s highlight for the day.

Wandana Heights were unable to field a team this week against Lara, which had a significant impact on the ladder. Lara moved to second, just one point behind Ocean Grove, and Wandana have dropped outofthefour,onepointbehindGrovedale and only 1.5 points in front of Western Heights.

Ladder leaders Ocean Grove travelled to Grovedale, although with detours due to theCadelEvansBikeRace,thiswasmoreof

Rosellas in top form

By Justin Flynn

Spurred on by its T20 title win during the week, Lethbridge continued its irresistible form by making a mammoth total against Corio in Geelong Cricket Association Division 3.

Thethird-placedRosellasarewellplaced to defeat the fourth-placed Devils after compiling a hefty 8/377 on day one of round 12 on Saturday 31 January.

At 2/40, skipper Shane Dillon strode to the crease and proceeded to belt a sublime 105 from only 96 deliveries in an innings that contained 15 boundaries and two sixes at Shell Reserve, Corio.

Dillon had support with Matthew Thomas and Anand Choundary each making 46 while 24-year-old English import Tom Saunders made 89 from 95 balls and hit 11 fours and three sixes.

Saunders, from Bournemouth on England’s south coast, said Lethbridge’s win in the T20 competition during the week was a confidence booster going into the game against Corio.

“The T20 win was a big boost to the team especially after stepping up into GCA3 proving to ourselves and everybody else that we are good enough to be here,” he said.

Saunders said his captain’s century was a pleasure to watch from the non-striker’s

end.

“Shane (Dillon) is an incredible player, having batted with him a lot last year and a fair bit this year too, it’s nice to have the bestseatinthehouseattheotherendwhen he is firing at full force,” he said.

“The plan was to just turn the strike over and keep the scoreboard ticking over to take the pressure off and then put the bad ball away.

“When I came in the pitch had flattened out a bit after Jesse (Sorgiovanni, 15 from 44 balls) and Matt (Thomas) got us through the tough period up top, allowing Shane and myself to be able to play our natural game.

“He makes it easy as the plan was simple and we made sure not to over complicate things and I could get myself in while Shane was firing at the other taking the pressure off.”

Even with so many runs to defend, Saunders said the Rosellas’ bowling attack would still need to perform against a dangerous Corio batting line-up.

“(The)plannextweekwillbethesameas we do every week - hit our line and length, build pressure and the wickets will come,” he said.

“We back ourselves in with the ball every time we step out onto the pitch and this week will be no different and we are all ready to go and know what we have to

an effort than usual. Grovedale got off to a goodstartwiththecombinationsofAshton Hageman/Finn Duffy and Riley van der Vliet/Hanna Schoenmaekers both posting 6-3 wins. Jesse Ballagh put Grove on the board with a 6-2 win in the first singles while Schoenmaekers kept Grovedale in front winning the fourth singles 6-1. Duffy and Herb Ireland had a mammoth set in the second singles with Ireland the eventual winner in a tie-break, leaving the match result dependent on the remaining third singles.

Remy Cairncross proved too consistent in the last to take the set 6-3 for Ocean Grove, leaving the match tied on sets, but Grovedale had the game advantage, taking the win overall and moved into fourth. With only 12 points between first and sixth every match is important for teams still in contention.

Wilson stars with seven-wicket haul

By Justin Flynn

Lara paceman Luke Wilson has 29 wickets already this season after a big haulagainstNewtown&Chilwell. Wilson took 7/45 and stepped up during the moment his side needed himmost.

With the Two Blues going well at 3/126, Wilson dismissed Lachie Sperling for 30 and then wreaked havoc in the GCA Division 1 round 12 clashon31January.

The Two Blues lost 7/52 runs to end on178andwithLaratoresumeat3/77 on day two, the game is still evenly poised.

TysonWindus(54)andPatMcKenna (44) played well for Newtown & Chilwell, but Wilson’s heroics, aided by a three-wicket haul from Kaden Marum,gotLarabackintothecontest.

Andrew Hughes (18) and George Blatherwick (37) got the Cats off to a 50-run opening stand when it was their turn to bat, but Mark Dwyer (2/37) and Chris Williams (1/15) struckbackwithLarastillneeding102 runswithsevenwicketsintact.

do. We have a deep bowling attack so if something is not working we are able to adapt.”

For Corio, seamer Mitchell Humm was a handful all day with 1/46 from 17 overs.

SUDHARSAN Rajaratnam piloted Waurn Ponds Deakin to a big total against Thomson.

Rajaratnam hit 10 boundaries and five sixes during his 169-ball stay at the crease before he was out caught at deep mid-wicket for a brilliant 132.

The Eagles compiled 289 all out after being 5/53. No 10 Dhanuja Haturusingha blasted a 40-ball 55 and shared a 100-run ninth-wicket stand with Rajaratnam to lift the total to almost 300.

MURGHEBOLUC was 4/21 against Modewarre, but some resistance in the middle and late orders got the total up to a respectable 195 all out.

Michael Grozdanovski (37) and Luke Webb (56) added 72 after the early carnage and some late-order determination from the Frogs’ last three batters - Rasula Kankanamage (38), Nathan Tucker (15) and Tom Barter (16 not out) got the total up to something they can defend.

Kurt Bamford may have only taken one wicket, but he conceded just 28 runs from 18 overs for Modda.

JACK Burns piloted Marshall to 224 all out against Bannockburn.

STAR North Geelong opener Ned Cooper made a 172-ball 110 in an innings of control. The left-hander hit 14 boundaries as the Magpies were all outfor305againstGrovedale.

Grovedale spinner Nathan Berry was on target with 4/75 from 20 overs and seamer Riley Stone picked up 3/60.

ANOTHER Luke Ford masterclass has given St Peters a shot at victory against South Barwon. Ford hit his third 100 of the season, and also has a 91 not out, and has compiled 584 runs at an average of 73. The Saints skipper arrived at the crease in the fifth over and was there at the end, making 129 not out from 266 balls. Brother Mitchell Ford made 44 as the Saints reached5/282atthecloseofplay. It was all single wicket takers for South Barwon, but Harry Hauenstein (1/31 from 17 overs), spinner Nick Butters (1/67 from 21) and Brad Hauensteinwerealleconomical.

ST JOSEPH’S made 280 all out against East Belmont with opener OliverMetcalfe(75)topscoring.

In reply, East Belmont has wiped off 22 runs from the chase with Sean O’Neill and Shane McNamara at the crease for the opening ball this Saturday.