INSIDE THIS EDITION…
HUGE NETBALL COVERAGE, PAGES, 24, 25 & 27
17 - 30 APRIL, 2026
BELLARINE’S NUMBER ONE NEWSPAPER
FREE FORTNIGHTLY
Honouring those who served
(Ivan Kemp) 547042_07
One young man has worked hard to make sure soldiers buried at Drysdale Cemetery receive recognition worthy of their sacrifices. Australian Army Cadet Sergeant Taylan Black, pictured here at the grave of Private C Kilby, has mobilised his community to help him honour the buried Anzacs with Australian flags. On 22 April Taylan and 11 other volunteers from local organisations will install approximately 100 flagpoles beside the graves of local veterans, which will be taken down a few days after Anzac Day. Inspired by his family’s history of national service and opportunity to learn a range of important skills, Taylan, now 17, joined the Army Cadets when he was 13. Since then, he has learned a lot about mateship, teamwork, leadership and the importance of looking after each other. This year’s Anzac Day Flags for Veterans initiative is the realisation of nearly two years of advocating for the recognition of Drysdale’s fallen veterans. Read the full story on page 6.
Bike park warning Local riders are struggling to contain their enthusiasm as the Bellarine’s new state-of-the-art bike park nears completion. After a series of unauthorised, after-hours visits by bike riders, the City of Greater Geelong has urged the community to help protect the nearly-fi nished facility. According to a council media statement, riders have been trying out the course’s jumps before they have been fi nished and cured. The unauthorised riders have not only caused significant damage to the surfaces, ruining the shape of lips and landings, they have also put themselves at serious
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risk of harm due to unfi nished features, blind hazards and machinery. Bike park committee member Jo Mansell said the enthusiasm in the community was understandable given the anticipation surrounding the facility. “I think we’ve been talking about it for so long - is it going to happen? And now the reality’s kicked in and there’s a massive vibe,” she said. “And as much as we’re trying to put it out there to stay away, the kids just can’t wait. And actually, it’s not just the kids.” Connewarre Ward councillor Elise Wilkinson said while locals may have spotted specialised crews testing the
surface, that was not “an invitation to give it a go, too”. “These highly trained experts, who are aware of each hidden hazard, are testing the track in controlled conditions as part of the construction development,” she said. “Safety is our top priority and trespassing is putting riders’ lives at risk, so please stay off the site during construction to ensure the centre is secure, durable and opens on time. “We can’t wait to welcome riders to this superior facility.” The project’s design and construction was not only centred around delivering
an outstanding riding experience, but also sustainability, Cr Wilkinson said. “The use of recycled crushed concrete from the former Alcoa site meant we reduced waste to landfi ll, stayed within budget, lowered project carbon emissions and supported local businesses,” she said. “The process has also contributed to the decommissioned site’s remediation, guided by strict health and environmental regulation. “Th is world-class facility is set to thrill riders of all skill levels and ages, encourage new riders to the sport and attract visitors from across the state, which will support the Bellarine’s economy.”