Ocean Grove Voice - 1st May 2026

Geelong Medal for Jakara

Jakara Anthony is one of the Greater Geelong region’s greatest-ever athletes.

The only Australian Winter Olympian to win two gold medals, Anthony followed up her 2022 women’s moguls gold-medal performance in Beijing with an astounding victory in the inaugural dual moguls event at the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics.

Born in Cairns but brought up in Barwon Heads since she was a toddler, Anthony began skiing at the age of four and debuted on the World Cup circuit at the age of 16.

Since then she has won 26 World Cup events – including a record-breaking streak of wins and the highest ever points tally in the sport’s history during the 2023-24 season – and won silver at the 2019 World Championships.

This week the 27-year-old Olympic champion received the inaugural Geelong Medal, a civic award created to celebrate the achievement of excellence by a team or individual from the region.

Turn to page 3 for the full story.

Fort fears eased

By Jena Carr

Fort Queenscliff’s heritage and historical significance will continue to be protected despitethefederalgovernment’sdecisionto sellthesite.

Members of the federal government, along with defence personnel, held a community session on 29 April about the site’s divestment and to clear up any misunderstandings.

Deputy prime minister Richard Marles said Fort Queenscliff’s heritage listing protected 93 per cent of the structures on thesite.

The structures will include the Black

Lighthouse, gun emplacements, perimeter walls, the keep, the quartermasters store andthesignaltower.

“The decision to divest 67 sites represents the most significant reform to Australia’s defence estate in our nation’s history,” he said.

“We know that many defence sites have servedAustraliansproudly,holdsignificant sentimentalvalue,andareremindersofour pastsacrificesandachievements.

“That’s why we are committed to working with historical organisations and communitygroupstopreserveandenhance public access to historically significant sites and collections, so all Australians can

honourourproudmilitaryhistory.”

Assistant minister for defence Peter Khalil said the divestment was expected to save taxpayers more than $40 million over thenext10years.

“In the weeks ahead, we will consult with communities across the country as we begintoimplementthisimportantreform,” hesaid.

“No buildings or structures on the Fort Queenscliff site that are protected under Commonwealth or state heritage laws will bedemolished,clearedordamaged.

“The divestment of a historic site will actually open it up to the public so the community, and Australians from across

the country, can better understand the role Fort Queenscliff has played in our military history.”

Federal Member for Corangamite Libby Coker said the heritage protection and historic preservation at Fort Queenscliff wouldbeaconditionofsale.

“Like many in our community, I deeply valueFortQueenscliff...andIamcommitted toensuringitcontinuestoplayanimportant roleinourregion’sfuture,”shesaid.

All proceeds from the sale of Fort Queenscliff will be reinvested back into the Defence Budget in the priority areas of the recently released National Defence Strategy.

Council and community at odds

By Jena Carr

Members of a small dogs group are at odds with Borough of Queenscliffe after a tense council meeting following questions about anoff-leashdogpark.

Murmurings and disagreements broke out during the 22 April meeting after questions were raised over why Royal Park Ovalwouldnotbeconsideredbycouncilfor anoff-leashdogpark.

Bellarine Small Dogs Group founder Gail McNaulty asked the first question during the meeting’s public question time, where

she inquired about why some ovals across theBellarineallowedforoff-leashdoguse.

Following chief executive Jane Grover’s answer that the oval needed to remain a “sportingandcommunityrecreationaloval that allowed dogs on-leash”, Ms McNaulty askedforacleareranswer.

“The difference is that there are two councils,andotherpartsoftheBellarineare governed by the City of Greater Geelong... so,wehavedifferentprioritiesforthepublic of our community,” Mayor Donnie Grigau said.

AfterMsGrover’sresponse,MsMcNaulty

responded with “I don’t know why we’re so special”, which led to a strong response fromthegallery,beforegoingtositdownfor therestofthemeeting.

“There was a bit of murmuring in the audience because nearly everybody thinks thesamethingandjustwantscounciltotell uswhy,”MsMcNaultytoldtheVoice.

“I didn’t think I was rude, other than my sarcasticremark.Ijustaskedthemtoclearly tellusthereasonwhytheovalcan’tbeused foranoff-leashpark.

“ThenthenextdayIreceivedaletterfrom the CEO (Ms Grover) basically saying my

Get your walking shoes on for Parkinson’s

Get involved in a morning filled with visibility, support and shared purpose at A WalkintheParkandhelpfightParkinson’s disease.

Geelong’s Eastern Park will be a fitting backdrop for a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for people of all ages and abilities with hundreds expected to take partintheevent.

Geelong event organiser Paige Kay said the walk holds special meaning for the region.

“AWalkintheParkinGeelongisachance for our community to stand alongside

people living with Parkinson’s and remind them they are not walking this path on theirown,”shesaid.

“There is something incredibly moving about seeing local families, friends and supporters come together in one place with such warmth and generosity. It helps people feel seen, it builds understanding and it shows that even in the face of a challenging diagnosis, community can makearealdifference.”

Fight Parkinson’s chief executive Emma Collinsaidregionalwalksplayavitalrolein helpingpeoplefeelconnected,understood

andsupportedclosetohome.

“In communities such as Geelong, local support can make an incredible difference,” she said. “These events create a space where people living with Parkinson’s, their families and carers can feel seen, understood and surrounded by peoplewhogenuinelycare.”

Geelong’sAWalkintheParkisatEastern Park, near the Botanic Gardens entrance onSunday3Maystartingat9am.

For more information or to register, visit awalkinthepark.org.au or call Fight Parkinson’son0388090400.

No debt and a small surplus in Queenscliffe budget

Borough of Queenscliffe will continue to operate without debt and a small surplus, according to its latest draft budget.

Borough councillors unanimously agreed during the 22 April council meeting to place the 2026-2027 Draft Budget on public exhibition until 18 May. Features of the budget include a transfer of $336,000 to council’s general reserve for future use, a $70,000 surplus andarateincreaseof2.75percentinline with the state government’s rate cap.

Borough Finance and ICT Services manager Gihan Kohobange said the

budget would keep council in a stable position while navigating potentially challengingconditionsacrosstheregion.

“We have enough day-to-day income to cover day-to-day operating expenses with no borrowings,” he said.

“Council will continue to have a debt-free balance sheet, and we are maintaining healthy reserves to manage uncertainties.

“We have a healthy reserve balance of around $1.8 million, and those measures will help council to manage the shortterm risks and uncertainties.

“The budget is cautious, balanced

behaviour was disrespectful and I would havetobematureorawareinthefuture.”

Inastatementreleasedon23April,Mayor Grigau said he felt the behaviour shown by individualsduringthecouncilmeetingwas “extremelydisappointing”.

“Prior to the commencement of public question time, I clearly outlined the requirements under council’s governance rules and highlighted the importance of respect,” he said. “These rules are not optionaland...theyexisttoensuremeetings are conducted lawfully, respectfully and safelyforeveryoneinvolved.”

New bus route for Bellarine

Commuters will no longer need to travel into Geelong to catch a bus between Ocean Grove and Drysdale with the state budget delivering a direct service between the two Bellarine Peninsula towns.

Currently, bus travellers need to plan at least 90-minutes for the trip that takes less than 20 minutes by car.

Commuters wanting to travel from The Terrace to Drysdale’s town centre either need to get the No 55 bus to Geelong and then the No 60 bus or take the No 55 service to Shell Road, then the No 56 to Leopold Primary School and then the No 60 to Portarlington via Drysdale. Both journeys take more than 90 minutes. Both trips involve walking from some stops to the other.

The service is Greater Geelong’s only new route allocated in the Victorian budget so far.

Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant said the recently concluded Bellarine Bus Review saw an overwhelming response from local residents, helpingtoclearlyidentifytransport gaps and priorities.

The cross Bellarine service is one piece of the review with the Department of Transport still working through the other feedback, she said.

“This is a fantastic outcome for our community and one that locals have been advocating for over a long period of time,” Ms Marchant said.

“The Bellarine Bus Review gave our community a strong voice, and it confirmed just how important better cross-Bellarine connections are.

“This new service between Drysdale and Ocean Grove will make a real difference to how people move around the Bellarine, connecting communities and making daily life easier.

and focused on essential services and renewingassetswithtargetedinvestment for long-term financial sustainability.”

The budget features a $48 increase in total waste charges for residential properties and a $20 decrease for commercial and vacant land properties during the 2026-27 financial year.

Total materials and services expenses are also expected to increase by 1.4 per cent, or $91,000, compared to the previous financial year’s forecast.

Visit the Borough of Queenscliffe’s website for more information or to provide feedback on the draft budget.

“This is about listening to our community and delivering the services they need, now and into the future.”

The new route will be funded to the tune of almost $100 million allocated in the budget statewide. The state government announced an extension for free public transport until the end of May.

Treasurer Jaclyn Symes will hand down her second budget on 6 May, the government’s last before November’s state election.

New memorial park

A new memorial park on the Bellarine will officially open later this month with a community day when the public can explorethe42-hectarelocation.

Bellarine Memorial Park at Marcus Hill will feature a cultural trail linking key areasofthesite,leadingtoadedicatedFirst Peoples burial area near Yarram Creek, while significant revegetation efforts will protect and enhance the surrounding landscape.

The site will provide space for more than 60,000 interments and memorials when fullydeveloped.

“Bellarine Memorial Park has been carefully planned to support a growing community over the long term while recognising the location’s cultural and environmental significance,” Geelong CemeteriesTrustchairJohnMitchellsaid.

“It ensures our community will have a place for remembrance that is inclusive, sustainable, and here for generations to come.”

Thememorialparkwillfeatureburialand memorial options, including lawn graves, parkland settings, bush burial areas, a Feng Shui section and cremation memorial spacesdeliveredovertime.

“This is a place where people can come notonlytoremember,buttofeelconnected - to nature, to community, and to those they love,” Geelong Cemeteries Trust chief executiveDeanMatthewssaid.

“Through walking paths, revegetated spaces and quiet areas for reflection, it has beendesignedtofeelopen,welcomingand part of everyday life, and will continue to evolvealongsidethecommunityitserves.”

The memorial park will be officially opened on Friday 29 May at 11am at 1681-1729 Bellarine Highway, Marcus Hill with the community day to follow. See gct. net.au/eventsformoreinformation.

City celebrates dual gold medallist Jakara

By Matt Hewson

ThisweekGeelonghonouredoneofitstrue champions.

Legendary mogul skier and two-time Olympic gold medallist Jakara Anthony received the inaugural Geelong Medal at a ceremony Wurriki Nyal on Tuesday, surrounded by family, friends, supporters and members of the next generation of buddingGeelongathletes.

The new civic award, which the City has established to recognise and celebrate achievements of excellence, was awarded to Anthony following her dual moguls win attherecentWinterOlympics.

Theeventwasalsoattendedbymembers of Parliament Libby Coker, Christine Couzens and Bev McArthur, as well as sporting luminaries Cadel Evans and Joel Selwood.

Anthony said it was “very, very special” and “such an honour” to be the inaugural recipientofthemedal.

“The Geelong region has been such a big part of my life and still is, and such a big part of me developing into the athlete and thepersonIam,”shesaid.

“From both my schools – Barwon Heads Primary and Christian College – to training with the Barwon Sports Academy, having people at the Geelong Cats helping me out…and then other great athletes in theareathatyoucanlearnfrom,it’sbeena reallyspecialplace.”

Barwon Sports Academy chief executive Cameron Loftus said Anthony’s legacy would live on in Geelong for a long time.

“It’snotaboutwhatwe’vedoneforher,it’s reallywhatshe’sdoneforus,andcontinues todo,”hesaid.

“We’ve had 2000 people come through the academy – 2000 families – and this is the pinnacle. The joy in watching Jakara’s progress, what she’s done and what she symbolisestosomanypeople.”

Parish members oppose crossing outside their church

Members of Queenscliff’s catholic community are objecting to the potential constructionofawombatcrossingoutside their church.

The Borough of Queenscliffe received Holy Trinity Parish Queenscliff’s petition during the 22 April council meeting, which objected to the proposed raised pedestrian crossing on a section of Stevens Street.

Parish Council chair Frank Rice said the parish was “quite concerned” that the character of Stevens Street could be “adversely affected” by the construction

of a wombat crossing in the area.

“The current design (of the crossing) would significantly alter the current character of the street,” he said.

“One of the elements that come into it is that traffic regulations require a minimum no-parking zone of some 15 metres on either side of the crossing.

“This would surely cut parking for church goers in front of the church or for peoplevisitingotherresidentsofthestreet as well...and there is limited parking out the front as it is.”

Mr Rice said the parish community was

Council opens conversation

Community residents have the chancetosharetheirperspectivesand concerns with Geelong councillors in OceanGrovethisMay.

The City of Greater Geelong will be hosting its next Neighbourhood Conversations event at Ocean Grove Neighbourhood House on Tuesday 5 May from 11am to 1pm, giving the community the opportunity to speak to councillors and members of the municipalcustomerserviceteam.

The City’s bi-monthly Neighbourhood Conversations events allow the public to engage with councillors and City staff about issues in their area and provide feedback on projects open for community consultation.

Connewarre Ward councillor Elise Wilkinson, who will be there to hear from her constituents, encouraged residentstocomealong.

“We need to hear directly from the people who live and work here — their ideas, their challenges and their aspirations,”shesaid.“Wheneveryone has a voice, we can deliver outcomes thattrulystrengthenourregion.”

Geelong mayor Stretch Kontelj said the Neighbourhood Conversations program is about listening and learning.

“We need these opportunities for in-person conversations to chat about the things that matter to our community,”hesaid.

“GreaterGeelongisgrowingandour community have innovative ideas for how we can make our region an even betterplacetoliveandwork.”

The previous three Neighbourhood Conversations events have been held in Geelong West, Whittington and Grovedale.

Visit yoursay.geelongaustralia.com. au/neighbourhood-conversations for updatesonfutureeventsandlocations of the council’s Neighbourhood Conversationsprogram.

not against the idea of a wombat crossing but felt the proposed area along Stevens Street was not the right place for it.

“Ensuring safe crossing points for children and families should remain a priority for the whole community.

“We support the goal of improving safetyaroundschools.Webelievethatthe wombat crossing in front of the church is not the most appropriate design at this time.”

The petition was signed by 21 people, and council will lay it on the table until the next ordinary meeting of council.

Anger over creche cuts

By Matt Hewson

CityofGreaterGeelongcouncillorsandstaff faced an outpouring of discontent from the community over the decision to close four creche services at its Swim, Sport & Leisure facilities.

Ten members of the public addressed the council group during Tuesday’s meeting at City Hall, pleading with councillors to reconsider a decision that would negatively impacthundredsoffamilies.

Many community members said creche services were crucially important to people’s physical and mental health, allowing families with low support and singleparentstoaccessfitnessfacilities.

Speakers also emphasised the disproportionate impact the closure would

have on women and lambasted the City’s offer of three months free access to fitness services for affected families - services they could never access without the support of thecreches.

Community members also petitioned the City to pause the cancellation of the creche services to engage directly with the community.

Petition presenter Belinda White urged the City to seek “simple, practical, realistic solutions”.

“We deeply care about these creche services…they are essential for mental health, they’re essential for mothers, to our community, to the well-being of our children,”shesaid.

“The evidence is in writing; almost 1000 signatures collected in less than three

weeksopposingthisunjustdecision.

“Pleasecontinuethecrecheservicesuntil the end of the financial year, for the period thecrecheisactuallyfundedfor.”

Among the pleas to keep providing the services, the chamber also heard from 11-year-old Austin Clark, who has attended the creche at Leisure Link since he was two yearsold.

“I’ve made so many friends at the creche, andthecarersaremyfriendstoo,”hesaid.

“My mum is fit and healthy and it encouragesmetowanttobefitandhealthy aswell.”

Austin invited councillors to visit the creche to “see what a wonderful place it is”. Hereceivedpolitesmilesbutnoresponses.

The City’s executive director of city life Anthony Basford provided a single, lengthy

Primary school a ResourceSmart finalist

By Jena Carr

An Ocean Grove school is being recognised for its sustainability efforts and environmental projects as a finalist in a statewideaward.

Ocean Grove Primary School has been namedafinalistinthisyear’sResourceSmart Schools Awards and will compete for the title of Campus Infrastructure and OperationsSchooloftheYear.

School sustainability coordinator Joanna Earle said the school had implemented a comprehensive range of environmental sustainability improvements across its campus.

“Sustainability is embedded into everything we do...and it’s really important to our community that it is a big part of our curriculum,”shesaid.

“We’re really excited to be a ResourceSmart finalist because the school is working hard with our sustainability initiatives,andit’sgreattoberecognisedin thisarea.

“Over the last five years, we have really built our school to have a strong infrastructure for sustainability, including solarpanels,ediblegardens,wastesystems, andnewwatertaps.”

The school’s sustainability projects included new drink taps to encourage refilling of water bottles and upgraded irrigation systems that automatically adjust watering gardens based on weather conditions.

Sustainability Victoria chief executive MattGeneversaidthisyearmarked17years of the ResourceSmart Schools Awards with the‘OurSustainabilityCommunity’theme.

“Our sustainable community celebrates teachers, students, stakeholders sharing knowledge, passion, and commitment to drive sustainability for a thriving environment,”hesaid.

This year’s ResourceSmart Schools Awards winners will be announced at a ceremony on 11 June. Visit sustainability. vic.gov.au/2026-rssa-finalists for more informationonthefinalists.

A purr-fect program helps our feline friends

By Jena Carr

A new program will roll out next month to help reduce cat overpopulation and improve animal welfare outcomes across theGeelongregion.

Project Meow Geelong received $32,400 through the state government’s Animal WelfareFundGrantsProgramtodeliverits Preventing Litters and Protecting Lives –CatDesexingInitiative.

Founder Lisa Kearns said the program would expand the community’s access to desexing, microchipping, and vaccinations.

“I find that when people are hurting, they tend to gravitate towards animals for comfort, and kittens are just everywhere at themoment,”shesaid.

“It was a huge relief to receive the grant because we rely on community support and fundraising as we’re only a tiny team,

so...I actually cried when we got the news thatwegotit.

“Last year we had over 100 kittens come through here, and we’ve probably gone over that already this year...and there’s not an organisation that is not struggling with capacity.”

Ms Kearns said Project Meow Geelong workedwithGeelongAnimalRescue(GAR) to give cats and kittens the best chance in life,andthatcatsshouldbedesexedbyfour monthsold.

“Thegrantwillhelplessentheburdenwe are to GAR, so that we can hand them a cat that is already vaccinated and ready to be desexed, if they haven’t been already,” she said.

The Animal Welfare Fund Grants Program provides grants to not-for-profit animal shelters, foster care organisations, andcommunityvetclinicsthatofferanimal welfareeducation,services,orfacilities.

response to the 14 submitted questions, noting first that closing the creches was not a council decision, but an operational one madebyCityofficers.

“We understand that this decision is at odds with some in our community, however, it has been made for sound reasons, carefully considered prior to the decision,”hesaid.

“There were five key reasons for the decision: changing regulatory compliance requirements; low demand for the service; financial sustainability; providing creches is not core business for Swim, Sport, and Leisure;andstrategicmisalignment.

“When all these factors are taken into consideration, the decision to discontinue the creche service is reasoned, responsible, andstrategicallyaligned.”

Water upgrades for Bellarine

Water infrastructure will be upgraded at four Bellarine Peninsula towns as part of a $50 million Barwon Water project. Drysdale, St Leonards, Portarlington and Queenscliff are part of Barwon Water’s plan to ‘future-proof’ the area’s water network.

“We have a range of upgrades on the way to water supply and water storage assets, including key feeder and transfer mains, water tanks and pump stations,” Barwon Water general manager Planning, DeliveryandEnvironmentSeamus Butcher said.

“These are aimed at increasing the Bellarine’s water security, catering to increased demand during peak periods, and maintaining a quality service to the local communities.”

Works will include a 6 megalitre tank upgrade at Tower Road, Portarlington that serves the town and St Leonards and Indented Head.

The works involve the construction of a new disinfection building and new pump station and will be completed in July.

A 32 megalitre tank, the largest in Barwon Water’s network, at McKiernan St, Drysdale, will get a new roof with works expected to start in the next month.

The tank directly supplies about 11,900 customers in Drysdale, Clifton Springs, Portarlington, Indented Head and St Leonards.

Queenscliff’s feeder main will be replaced in stages during the next 18 months.

A 6km section of ageing and narrow water pipeline, which supplies Queenscliff and Point Lonsdale, will be replaced though private properties, increasing capacity, water security and climate resilience.

More than one-third of the main has been used for 65 years.

All work will be carried out within the road reserve, and no access to private property is required by the crews.

Additional supply capacity will be created through a feeder main between St Leonards and Indented Head in the third stage of a long-term project.

Funds for Celtic fest

Australia’s biggest Celtic festival will get significant government funding to help offset the rising event costs experienced industry-wide.

The National Celtic Folk Festival, held every June in Portarlington, will receive $33,500 as part of the Victorian government’s Regional Multicultural FestivalsandEventsFund.

Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant congratulated the festival after the announcementlastweek.

“I’m proud to support events like the National Celtic Folk Festival, which bring peopletotheBellarinePeninsulaandshine alightonourlocalvenuesandbusinesses,” shesaid.

“It’s a great chance for locals and visitors to come together, share in the culture, and connectasacommunity.”

Festival director Una McAlinden thanked the government for the funding grant.

“We’re incredibly grateful for this support, which allows National Celtic Folk Festival to continue offering and deliveringaninclusive,community-driven celebrationofartsandculture,”shesaid.

More than 75 organisations will share in $620,000 of funding to host events between April and June 2026 through the Multicultural Festivals and Events program and the Regional Multicultural FestivalsandEventsFund.

The programs offer grants of between $5000 and $50,000 to ensure equitable access for groups that may otherwise face barrierstodeliveringevents.

Ministerformulticulturalandmultifaith VictoriaIngridStittsaidthestate’sdiversity was “one of our greatest strengths” and

that the grants would “help people of all backgrounds celebrate and share their culture”.

“We’re making sure rising event costs are not a barrier to hosting Victoria’s

extraordinary multicultural events calendar,”shesaid.

Visit vic.gov.au/multicultural-festivalsand-events-program for more information andtoapplyforthenextroundofgrants.

Petitions tabled for rates cuts

By Matt Hewson

Retirement village residents and advocates have called for reduced councilratesfortheirpremises.

Four petitions were tabled at Tuesday night’s Geelong council meeting requesting differential rates forretirementvillagesasresidentspay annualfeestomaintaininfrastructure andservices.

Silvana Benacchio spoke on behalf of Abervale Retirement Village residents, requesting a reduction on council rates of up to 33 per cent for retirement villages from 2027 onward.

“Retirement village residents currentlypayfullresidentialrates,yet donotreceivethesamelevelofcouncil services as standard residential properties,”shesaid.

“Within our villages, residents are responsible for funding and maintaining essential infrastructure.

“This includes roads, kerb and channeling, footpaths, street lighting, and general upkeep such as pothole repairs and garden maintenance… that are typically provided by council inotherresidentialareas.

“In many cases, the roads within retirement villages are privately owned and maintained. Despite this, residents still contribute to council road maintenance through their rates…residents are effectively paying twiceforsimilarservices.”

Kindergarten places growing on the Bellarine Peninsula

Two new early learning centres are coming to the Bellarine to provide more places for kids across the region.

A kindergarten will open at Bellarine Secondary College in Ocean Grove next year, followed by an Early Learning Victoria (ELV) centre opening in St Leonards in 2028.

The Ocean Grove kinder will have two rooms with up to 118 places, and the St Leonards ELV centre will provide Free Kinder as well as long day care.

Member for Bellarine Alison Marchant said the ELV centre will also have communityspacesandoffermaternaland child health services.

“These new services will provide Bellarine parents and caregivers with more early learning options close to home,” she said.

“This is fantastic news for the Bellarine community, with a new kinder in Ocean Grove and an Early Learning Victoria centreinStLeonardsgivinglocalchildren the best start in life.”

An $18.3 million state government investment has helped deliver three kindergartens on school sites across Greater Geelong, including Oberon Kinder, Marshalltown Road Kinder and Biyala Kinder.

Minister for Children Lizzie Blandthorn saidthethreeprojectshadalreadycreated 231 new places for Greater Geelong families.

“We’re enabling even more Victorian children to benefit from high-quality early childhood education and care close to home,” she said.

“We promised to open 50 new government-owned ELV centres, and

To

We’re

Easing loneliness

By Cr Rowan Story

DidyouknowoneinfourGeelongresidents reportfeelinglonely?

Thesefigurescomefromthe2024Geelong Preventative Health Survey which also found that number jumps to an astounding 60percentamong18-to 24-year-olds.

Further, 61 per cent of people with a disability and 57 per cent of single parents alsoreportfeelinglonely.

Thesefiguresareconfrontingbuttheyalso give us a clear starting point for action and a better understanding of where support is neededmost.

This week Geelong’s Social Inclusion Action Group (SIAG) released its priorities and Needs Analysis, community-led research, that confirms these statistics and chartsaclearcourseforchange.

The group is supported by the City of Greater Geelong and funded by the Victorian government in response to the Royal Commission into Victoria’s Mental HealthSystem.

SIAG’s role is to ensure the people most affected by loneliness and social isolation arehelpingtoshapethesolutions,alongside thesystemsandservicesthatsupportthem.

Research tells us the barriers that can make participation harder include limited transport options, inaccessible community spaces, digital challenges and experiences ofstigmaordiscrimination.

For many residents, systems and circumstances stack up in ways that make isolationimpossibletoovercome.

For example, a young person living with disability and financial disadvantage faces multiple, interconnected barriers to

connection.

Equally, a single parent working casual hours might struggle with money, time, transport,andstressallatonce.

Extensive research has shown that chronic experiences of loneliness and isolationcanincreasetheriskofdepression, anxiety, cardiovascular disease, cognitive decline,andimmunedysregulation.

Thisinitiativeputsrealactionbehindthis approach with a $120,000 annual Social Inclusion Investment Fund administered by the SIAG group that is allocated to a number of priorities including access enablerpayments.

Access enabler payments are available to community groups to help cover practical costs,suchastransportorchildcare,sothat community members can participate in programs,activitiesorevents.

Applications are now open, and I encourage individuals, community groups and organisations to think about who in their networks would benefit from this program.

For more information and to apply, visit geelongcity.vic.gov.au/social-inclusionaction-group-access-enabler-payments

Another important piece of work currently underway,respondingdirectlytothe60per centfigure,isthefocustoreduceloneliness among young people through the Youth SocialConnectionProject.

This is a co-design project, with young people involved from the start to design solutions and have input on what actions andactivitieswillappealtothemselvesand theirpeers.

A series of workshops for people aged 12 to 25 will be held across May and June, giving young people the chance to share their experiences and help shape ideas that improveconnection.

Workshops will be held after school and on weekends, enabling full participation fromyoungpeople.

Tocompensatefortheirtimeparticipants will receive a gift card valued at $25 per hour, snacks provided at the sessions, and assistance with transport to the sessions if needed.

The insights gathered through these workshops will help guide future services, support advocacy for funding and inform partnershipswithorganisationsworkingin healthandwellbeing.

This is practical, grounded work that recognises social connection as a key part ofahealthyandthrivingcommunity.

If you know a young person who could benefit, please let them know about the projectandencouragethemtoapply. Applications are open until 11.59pm on Sunday 3 May at yoursay.geelongaustralia. com.au/Youth-Social-Connection-Project

Young performers on show

This weekend classical music fans can enjoy a wonderful program of Romantic musicfeaturingthreeveryspecialsoloists.

Orchestra Geelong will present the first performance of its 2026 concert series The Schus,featuringworkscomposedbyFranz Schubert and Robert Schumann at 3pm this Sunday 3 May at RW Gibson Centre, ChristianCollegeSeniorSchool.

Bookending the program are two works by Schubert; the performance will open with the Overture to The Magic Harp and

conclude with the two movements of his UnfinishedSymphony.

In between, the 40-strong orchestra will perform Schumann’s Piano Concerto in A Minor, featuring three 10-year-old soloists – Tyler Zhou, Alexander Cui and Ethan Zhang.

Orchestra conductor Hayden Dinse said hewasamazedattheboys’facilityoverthe work, which was “fiendishly difficult” for 10-year-oldhands.

“You’d call each of them wunderkind, to

behonest,”hesaid.

“They play well beyond their years, they’re very mature musicians. It’s their first time playing with an orchestra, and they’redoingareallygoodjobofit.”

Dinse said he was very happy to be able to provide the three young soloists with a chancetoperformwithanorchestra.

“(Melbourne pianist) David Soo, who is the teacher of the three boys, came to me last year saying he had these kids that wouldlovetodoaconcerto,”hesaid.

“He put forward some ideas, and the Schumannwasonethatisnotoftenheard… certainly not in community groups, it’s doneabitprofessionally.

“To be able to encourage young kids to pursue classical music and encourage that interest, I think that’s what community music is about and certainly what I’m aboutasateacher.”

Visit trybooking.com/eventlist/ orchestrageelong for tickets and more information.

Take a step back in time

Ever wondered what Geelong was like in the Jazz Age? Now is your chance to find out.

“They were made for several different reasons, but mostly they were made to promote Geelong by the council,” he said.

On Tuesday 12 May, local historian, writer and performer Colin Mockett will presentGeelong’sRagtimeHistoryonFilm, acollectionofsilentfilmsdocumentingthe cityduringthe1920sand30s.

Mockett will introduce each clip –most of which are about 2 minutes long –providing their context, where the camera was situated, the purpose of the film and howitrelatestomodern-dayGeelong.

Eachofthefilmswillalsobeaccompanied by a live early jazz soundtrack provided by renownedlocalpianistSonokaMiyake. Mockettsaidthefilmsthemselves,which were given to him by Geelong Alternative Cinema Group’s then-president Vern Hollingsworth in the late 1980s, were fascinating.

“They were made to be distributed around the Empire to attract people and businesses to the city…and they show a very different Geelong.”

From clips of trams slowly making their way down the crowded streets of central Geelong to clips of the new Ford Factory, even the laying of the foundation stone of St Mary’s Basilica, the films document a very different world.

“AnothershowsaGeelongblokesigning upfortheGreatWar,startingatJohnstone Park and marching down to the port and getting on board a ship,” Mockett said. Visit tickets.geelongaustralia.com.au/ event/geelong-history-on-film for more information.

push lift lower carry

Dry weather and tawnies

It has been weeks since it rained on the Bellarine, and the weather has been warm, so ponds and creeks on the Bellarine are still so dry.

The blue-green algae at Blue Waters Lake is still present, so much so that I wonder how the birds that live in the lake are able to thrive.

I did not think I would still be having to water my garden at the end of April. I hope that it rains cats and dogs very soon.

I have been photographing and observing a family of tawny frogmouths in Ocean Grove for many years with the help of my friend Susie Baker. Over the past two years we have seen a female tawny on one or two occasions, and we didn’t lay eyes on the beautiful big male bird, so I reached the point where I thought he had died leaving the female on her own.

To my delight and surprise, I was riding mybikeonedaylastweekandintheirwinter roosting tree I saw three tawny frogmouths - two parent birds and a youngster. I’m not sure if the old male bird had died and the female has found a new partner, or if these birds are the original family, but it was so great to see them. They were not as happy to see me and all three posed with a stretched body to blend in with the tree trunk.

The other exciting encounter I had occurred when my friend Robyn called me

one Sunday afternoon to tell me that she had seen a collared sparrowhawk in her chicken coop.

to Robyn’s to check out the sparrowhawk, which had immature plumage, so it was a youngster. It wasn’t disturbing the chickens, asitasimilarsizetothesebirdsandunlikely to feed on them.

I managed to take a few photos before Robyn opened up the tassels on the door of the coop and the sparrowhawk flew out, but not before scraping some skin above the eye causing a small laceration.

I received a message from Nerise, who was walking through the caravan park area along the Barwon River and observed a pair of grey butcherbirds. One bird had a mouse in its bill.

Butcherbirds are carnivores that prey on large insects, lizards, frogs, little birds such as finches and small mammals such as mice. Butcherbirds are so named as they have been observed to impale their prey on thorns before consuming it.

IreceivedanemailfromVoicenewseditor Justin, who has had an Australian white ibis hanging around his backyard. This is a big bird to see in a garden and is commonly seen in Australia’s north and east. Natural habitats for the Australian White Ibis are the freshwater wetlands and marshlands of inland Australia, but due to drought and land clearing, they are now commonly seen in coastal and urban areas.

Robyn lives in Wallington and there are many rats that also visit her coop and the rodents attract the raptors as food. I drove

They have a varied diet that includes crayfish, mussels, insects, frogs, fish, crustaceans, earthworms, snakes and mice. I can only assume that there are some of these prey items in Justin’s backyard. In city environments where their usual prey items are not present, Australian white ibises scavenge for discarded food in rubbish dumps and rubbish bins and because of this they are nicknamed ‘bin chickens’.

CELEBRATING SENIORS

Playing with grandchildren can help with mental health

Watchingyourgrandchildrenfrolicthrough a playground is one of the many joys of being a grandparent, but new research has found that engaging in play with kids could helpimprovementalhealth.

Researchers from the University of South Australia (UniSA) and the University of Canberra (UC) have explored the benefits of intergenerational play through specially designedplaygroundsforkidsandadults.

Intergenerational play brings young children and older people together to engage in enjoyable and creative activities such as storytelling, using playground equipment,andgames.

The world is facing an aging population, with the proportion of over 60-year-olds set to double and over 80-year-olds set to triple by2050.

Associate professor and deputy director of the Australian Research Centre for InteractiveandVirtualEnvironments(IVE) at UniSA, Fanke Peng, says that society needs more public spaces that enable generationalintegrationandinteraction.

“There’sasocialdividebetweenolderand younger people, and it leaves little room for meaningful interaction outside of families and classrooms,” she says. “This age-based segregation causes feelings of isolation and social disconnectedness, which in turn can lead to depression, anxiety, suicidal ideation, and cognitive decline in older adults.

“The facilitation of a playground designedforchildrenandtheirparentsand grandparents will foster intergenerational play and lead to positive mental health outcomes.”

Inplayspaceco-designworkshopshosted bytheresearchers,participantsaged65and

over discussed the benefits of spending timewithchildrenandwhatasharedspace couldlooklikeintheircommunity.

Participants also reflected on their favouriteplayexperience,theirexperiences playing with children, and what elements they would want or need in an intergenerationalplayground.

“(Spending time with children is) also good for my health. And my wellbeing. And it’s the participation. (That’s really) important,” one participant said. “Playing with the kids also makes you feel young. It givesyouthatsenseofaccomplishmentthat

youhaven’tlostthoseskills.”

Some participants noted the need for accessible amenities like shaded seating, water and toilets, and play equipment that is easy for older people to use while still meetingtheneedsofchildren.

Assoc Prof Peng says there are barriers thatexistthatmakeitharderforolderpeople to engage in play, such as social attitudes andstigmasthatplayisonlyforchildren.

Removing these barriers is crucial in encouraging interaction between generations, and helping to address mental healthconcernsaspeopleage,shesays.

“Designing a space where children and older adults can engage with each other is crucial to dismantling the social stigma that stops people from playing once they’re older,”AssocProfPengsays.

“We know that people start to feel like it’s notappropriateforthemtouseplaygrounds or engage in children’s activities, and so there’s quite limited opportunities for intergenerationalplay.

“Creating these shared spaces that older adults can participate in means bridging the generational gap and taking care of the community.”

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

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

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

“It’s super important to enable the clients to maintain their independence and remain at home as long as they can, with a bit of help

from us,” he said. “I’ve been with Just Better Care Geelong for just over two years as a community support professional, I love my job and I have a wide variety of clients that I assist every week.”

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

Visit justbettercare.com/Geelong for more information. Be part of a great team

We will remember them

Ocean Grove Barwon Heads RSL Sub-branch held commemorative services on Anzac Day and Justin Flynn was at the Ocean Grove Park midmorning march and service to take these photographs.

Winter wonderland on the Bellarine

As winter approaches on the Bellarine Peninsula,localsandvisitorsalikediscover auniquecharminitsdiningscene.

Known for its stunning coastline, quaint villages, and burgeoning culinary reputation,thepeninsulatransformsintoa havenforfoodenthusiastsduringthecolder months. From cosy cafes to fine dining restaurants, here’s a guide to experiencing the best of winter dining on the Bellarine Peninsula.

Embracing coastal comforts: The Bellarine’s proximity to the Southern Oceanensuresthatitsseafoodofferingsare freshandplentifulyear-round.Wintersees an emphasis on hearty seafood chowders, grilled local fish, and seafood platters served with seasonal vegetables sourced fromnearbyfarms.

Fireside feasts: Nothing complements winter dining like a crackling fire and a glassoflocalwine.Manyestablishmentson theBellarinePeninsulaenhancetheircosy atmosphere with open fireplaces, inviting patrons to unwind with a warm drink and a hearty meal. Leura Park at Curlewis is renowned for its contemporary Australian cuisine and a welcoming fireplace that sets the stage for a memorable dining experience.

Farm-to-table freshness: Winter on the Bellarine Peninsula is the season for farm-fresh produce, and local chefs take full advantage of this abundance. Menus often feature dishes crafted from seasonal vegetables like roasted beets, heirloom carrots, and Brussels sprouts, paired with locally sourced meats and cheeses.

LEURA PARK ESTATE

Artisan wines without compromise

• Sensational setting

• Stunning pizzas, platters & fresh local fare

• Live Music Sundays

• Wine Tastings

• Open Thurs - Sunday 11am - 5pm

1400 Portarlington Rd, Curlewis 03 5253 3180

leuraparkestate.com.au

12606035-SN21-23

Boutique winery experiences: Wine lovers will find much to savour on the Bellarine Peninsula, known for its boutique wineries producing cool-climate varietals. Many cellar doors remain open throughout winter, offering tastings paired with gourmet platters that highlight local cheeses, charcuterie, and artisanal bread. Jack Rabbit Vineyard in Drysdale is a standout, where panoramic views of the vineyards meet a menu featuring estate-grownwinesandseasonaldelights.

Hiddengemsinvillagesettings: Exploring the smaller villages dotted across the peninsula reveals hidden gems that

FLYING BRICK CIDER CO

Funky, Fabulous, Fun.

• Landmark Bellarine venue

• Innovative space

• Delicious food

• 100% naturally crafted ciders

• Luxurious grounds & vineyard

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

flyingbrickciderco.com.au

12606701-KG21-23

beckonwithwarmthandcharacter.Quaint cafes and bistros tucked away in places like Portarlington and Barwon Heads offer intimate settings ideal for leisurely brunchesorcandlelitdinners.

Festive events and markets: Winter on the Bellarine Peninsula is not just about dining indoors. The season brings a calendar of events, including food and wine festivals, farmer’s markets, and community gatherings celebrating local produce and culinary talents. The Winter Shiraz Weekend and the Queenscliff Winter Weekend are highlights, featuring live music, wine tastings, and a showcase of seasonal fare that brings together locals andvisitorsalike.

JACK RABBIT VINEYARD

• Iconic Bellarine winery

• Unrivalled panoramic views

• Contemporary a la carte

• Sophisticated wines

• Lunch / Wine Tastings

• OPEN 7 Days

85 McAdams Lane, Bellarine 03 5251 2223 jackrabbitvineyard.com.au

12606706-RR21-23

WinterdiningontheBellarinePeninsula isacelebrationoflocalflavours,community spirit, and the region’s natural beauty. Whether you’re indulging in fresh seafood by the coast, savouring farm-to-table delights,orenjoyingaglassofwinebesidea cracklingfire,thepeninsulaoffersanarray of experiences that capture the essence of seasonaldining.Asthetemperaturedrops, the warmth of its culinary scene only grows stronger, inviting all to savour the best of winter in this picturesque corner of Victoria.

Finesse your form or just for fun.

• Lunch / Dinner / Snacks

• Burger, Beverage & Balls packages

• Barista coffe, beer, wine & cocktails

• OPEN 7 days

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

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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

Bellarine Historical Society

Open to the public. Discover the area’s past. Sundays 10.30am-12.30pm. Courthouse Museum, 11 High St, Drysdale. bellarinehistory.org

Ocean Grove Day VIEW

Meets second Wednesday of the month at 360Q, Queenscliff, 10.30am for 11am. oceangroveday.viewclub@gmail.com

Ballroom dance

Leopold Hall, 805-809 Bellarine Hwy, Saturday 2 May, 7.30pm-10.30pm. Admission $10 includes supper. Music: Ben. Sunday 3 May, 2pm-4.30pm, $5 includes afternoon tea, bring a plate to share. Music: Kevin.

0400 500 402

Leopold Library

Friday 8 May, 10am: Local-history talk, early setters of Leopold.

Thursday 14 May, 6pm: Career Pathways –a look at careers in emergency services. Tuesdays 2pm: Digital drop in for basic tech needs

Free school holiday programs. All ages, all interests.

4201 0675 or grlc.vic.gov.au

Ocean Grove Snooker Club

Avenue Avengers are a snooker team who play for Ocean Grove Snooker Club. The club, which has 12 teams, has been playing for 49 years. Matches are highly competitive but played in great spirit, with refreshments and supper at the end. This year’s 50th season is highly anticipated and celebrations are being planned. Avenue Avengers are looking to bolster numbers. 0448 391 366

Leopold Book Club

Meets second Tuesday of the month at 6.30pm in Leopold. Very friendly group, new members welcome.

Shirley, 0488 055 969

Portarlington playgroup

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

Ocean Grove Library

Mondays 10.30-11.30am: preschool story time

Tuesdays 4-5pm: youth collective (ages 12-18)

Wednesdays 9.30-10am: toddler time Thursdays 11.30-11.50am: baby time Thursdays 3.45-4.45pm: after-school program

Bellarine Presbyterian Church Services Sunday 10am, Ocean Grove Senior Citizens’ Clubrooms, 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove. Rev Brett Cummins, 0438 218 864 or secretary Neil Mansfield, 0405 064 976

The Big Read Meets every other Wednesday from February 5, 10.30am-noon, Ocean Grove Senior Citizens’ Club, 101 The Terrace. Paul, 0425 110 792

Barefoot bowls Point Lonsdale Bowls Club every Friday and Sunday evening during the holidays. Live music every second Sunday. 5258 1150

Ocean Grove Soft Tennis

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

Quilt-in

Geelong Patchwork & Quilter’s Guild quilt-in, Geelong West Town Hall, Saturday 23 May, 10am-4pm, entry is $15. Sit and sew, guest speaker Tania Tanti, pop-up stores. wheatsheaf_quilting@hotmail.com

necessary. Just a desire to keep fit and have fun.

Megan, 0439 317 344

Live music

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

CWA Nightlights Ocean Grove

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

Kareen, 0419 246 346 or Janis, 5255 4585

Bellarine Women’s Workshop

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

Facebook: Bellarine Women’s Workshop for further details

Book club

Leopold CAE book club meets second Tuesday each month from 6.30pm. Very friendly group. New members welcome. Shirley, 0488 055 969

Chess clubs

For chess fun simply come along and see yourself, play some chess, meet some members, with no obligation to join. We welcome players of all abilities. Ocean Grove, Tuesdays at 1.30pm at 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove; Portarlington, Mondays at 9.30am, Parks Hall, 87 Newcombe Street, Portarlington; and St Leonards, Thursdays at 9.30am, unit 2 1375-1377 Murradoc Road, (on Blanche Street), St Leonards. Ralph, 0431 458 100 (Ocean Grove), Rob, 5259 2290 (Portarlington), Lyn, 5292 2162 (St Leonards)

Carpet bowls

Leopold Hall 805-809 Bellarine Highway, Leopold, Wednesday and Friday,

1pm-3.15pm. Admission: $4 includes afternoon tea. 0400 500 402

Scottish country dancing classes

GOG Scottish Country Dance classes 7.30pm Tuesdays at Leopold Hill Hall, $5. No partner needed, just comfy casual clothing and flat shoes. Barbara, 0419 511 781

Ocean Grove Senior Citizens 101 The Terrace, Ocean Grove Weekly

Tuesday: 1pm snooker, chess, indoor bowls Wednesday: bingo 1.15pm, ukulele class 1.30pm, Chord Club jam session 4pm Thursday: social afternoon, cards 500 1pm Friday: art classes 9am, social art group 1pm.

Fortnightly

1st & 3rd Monday: CWA, 2pm Paschal, 0426 889 456 Wednesday: Book club, 10.30am Paul, 0425 110 792 5255 2996 or groveseniors101@gmail. com

Springs TOWN

Springs TOWN Club (Take Off Weight Naturally) meets Mondays, 9-10.30am at the Community Hub, 23 Eversley Street, Drysdale. Weigh-in, group therapy and regular relaxation sessions. $5 per session, $54 annual fee. Bev, 0421 636 830

Bellarine TOWN

Bellarine TOWN Club meets Wednesdays, noon-2pm at Ocean Grove Community Centre, 1 John Dory Drive. Affordable, supportive group for those trying to lose weight.

0478 615 683

Drysdale Day VIEW

Supporting The Smith Family for fun and friendship while supporting disadvantaged

students. Meetings at Portarlington Golf Club for lunch on the fourth Friday of each month.

Margaret, 0431 636 090

Ocean Grove Evening VIEW

Meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month at 6.30pm. Supporting disadvantaged children through education. oceangroveevening.viewclub@gmail.com

Leopold VIEW

Second Tuesday of each month, Leopold Sportsmans’ Club, 10.30am. leopold.viewclub@gmail com

Drysdale Ladies Probus Club

Meets at 10.30am on the fourth Monday of each month at the Clifton Springs Golf Club. Raelene, 4244 0376

Afternoon tea dance

Life Activities Club [Geelong Inc] hosts an afternoon tea dance on Thursdays, 2-4pm, at Belmont Park Pavilion. Entry: $5. 5251 3529

CWA Drysdale

Meets Drysdale RSL, Princess Street, Drysdale on the second Tuesday of the month. Meetings start at 1pm followed by afternoon tea. Friendly group looking to recruit new members. Jenni, 0452 258 333

Writers’ group

The Hub writers’ group meets at Arts Hub, Clifford Parade, Barwon Heads, on the first Sunday of the month 2-4pm. New members welcome. dorothy.johnston@hugonet.com.au

Mainly Music

Music and fun for preschoolers during term time at the Welcome Centre, St Mark’s, Vicarage Road, Leopold, Thursdays 9.15-11am. $5 per family per week. Text: 0461 582 618 for bookings

Out and about on Anzac Day

It was a glorious day for footy and netball on Anzac Day and Voice photographer Ivan Kemp was at Grinter Reserve in Newcomb to see the Power take on Ocean Grove.

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.

ACROSS

1 Musically short, clipped and separate (8)

5 New York City neighbourhood (6)

10 Clear (5)

11 Cattle (9)

12 Minister (6)

13 Town in France with a shrine to St Bernadette (7)

14 Military unit (8)

15 Ill-gotten (6)

18 Constabulary (6)

20 Fauna (8)

21 Central Italian region (7)

24 Steering device (6)

27 First meal (9)

28 Established truth (5)

29 Widespread dominion (6)

30 Quaint houses (8)

1 Senior barrister (coll) (4)

2 Divine being of high rank (9)

3 Military student (5)

4 Open-minded (8)

6 Attack (7)

7 Father of Beau and Jeff Bridges (5)

8 Be logical or comprehensible (4,5)

9 Wickedness (4)

14 Respectable (9)

16 Hanging around (9)

17 The text of an opera (8)

19 Savoury biscuit (7)

22 Woolly mammal (5)

23 Chinese currency (4)

25 Preliminary drawing (5)

26 Flightless birds (4)

3

Today’s Aim:

16 words: Good 24 words: Very good 33 words: Excellent

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”. A G P Y C I E R N

preying, pricey, prying, pyre, racy, rainy, raying, repay, repaying, yarn, yean, year, yearn

PANEGYRIC, payer, paying, piny, piracy, pray, praying, prey,

4

AURAL AVAIL BOATS

LETTERS

1 Which singer released a 1963 album titled I’llCryIfIWantTo, in which every song related to crying?

2 Which colour has the longest light wavelength?

3 Colloquially, a ‘bachelor’s handbag’ is what?

4 What was Monday named after?

5 Evan Peters (pictured) plays which Marvel hero in the liveaction X-Men universe?

6 In which 2025 film are four misfits sucked through a portal to the Overworld, where they meet a man named Steve?

7 In which decade was the first 3D printer invented?

8 Eventually replaced by Mickey Mouse, who was Walt Disney’s first major animated character?

9 In 1858, which two Melbourne schools competed in what is often recognised as the first organised Australian rules football match?

10 Chestnut, jack o’lantern and chicken of the woods are all kinds of what?

SPORTS QUIZ

1. Which Manchester United player was red-carded for hair-pulling during an Old Trafford match against Leeds?

3. Who was the first pick of the 2026 WNBA draft?

4. After his latest Masters victory, how many major titles has Rory McIlroy

13. Which NHL team failed to make the playoffs for the 2025-26 season after winning back-to-back Stanley Cups?

14. Mintonette was the original name for which sport?

15. The Dripping Pan is a football stadium in which country?

16. Which increasingly popular sport has a seven-foot non-volley zone in front of the net called ‘the kitchen’?

17. Which tennis tournament is banning cameras in off-court player areas following criticism from players about preserving their privacy?

18. St Kilda AFL player Lance Collard has been banned for how many weeks by the AFL tribunal for a homophobic slur?

19. Which golf league faces an uncertain future following a lawsuit filed by its predecessor?

20. Which TV show host was involved in a crash at the Bathurst 6-Hour race, which left a competitor with a broken spine?

21. What colour do the Melbourne Demons add to their uniform for their annual Jim Stynes Game?

22. What sport does Australian Hannah Green play?

23. The Nine Network recently made a broadcast deal with which local sporting league, starting in 2027?

24. Which Australian cricketer holds the record as the highest-paid overseas player in Indian Premier League history?

25. What is the only nation to have won multiple gold medals in Rugby Sevens at the Summer Olympics?

ANTENNAS ArrowAntennas0439785703 KendallAntennaServices0404019781

AUTOMOTIVE

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CHIMNEY SWEEPS

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CONVEYANCING

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DENTAL

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26. Which retired AFL legend played a recent game for WA regional team Dowerin?

27. How many NBA teams qualify for the playoffs every year?

28. Shane Flanagan was recently fired as coach of which NRL team?

29. Which team won the A-League Men's 2025-26 Premiership?

30. Which Formula 1 Grand Prix takes place this weekend?

HEALTH & WELLBEING

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Epichealth

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OPTOMETRISTS

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PHYSIOTHERAPY

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PLUMBING

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SECURITY DOORS

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SEWING MACHINE

SERVICING

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SURVEYORS

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TYRES

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New Palisade got sexier

By Chris Riley, Marque Motoring

Releasedherein2020,Palisadeisthelargest of Hyundai’s SUVs – not counting the electricIoniq9.

Palisade is targeted at buyers of large SUVs who want a more car-like driving experience than that offered by traditional 4WDs.

It’s available in seven and eight-seat configuration, with two standalone ‘captain’schairs’occupyingthesecondrow intheseven-seatversion.

That leaves three people to squeeze into the split-fold third row of seats, making it more of a six-seater but six-seaters have neverdonewellinAustralia.

The Kia equivalent of Palisade is the Telluride, but unfortunately that is not available here, which is not to detract from thePalisade.

There’s not much to dislike, apart from the price. The more interesting question is whether to get one of these or the excellent Kia Carnival people mover which in top gradeisalsosumptuouslyequipped.

Styling Hyundai has just added a more budget friendlyElitegradetotherangepricedfrom $76,500.

The Calligraphy eight-seat is $89,900, while the top of the range seven-seater is $90,900 and the subject of our review – all pricesbeforeon-roadcosts.

It’s been five years since our last drove this car and Palisade has become a whole lotsexierandmorerefinedinthattime,with animpressivefaceandAmerican-styleroad presence.

Clearly, the message from Hyundai is why fork out a lot more for a Euro when you can drive home one of these babies that is optionedtothehiltandbuyasecondfamily carwiththechange.

The V6 has been replaced by a more frugal hybrid with drive on demand to all four wheels and a six-speed automatic transmissionacrosstheboard.

Launched in 2024, the current second-generation Palisade boasts a bolder look,sleekerprofileandcleanersheetmetal tocreateastrongyetluxuriousflagshipSUV.

Revised proportions include a shorter front overhang, more upright windscreen, an extended wheelbase and a lengthened rearoverhang.

An elevated bonnet flanked by vertical DRLs creates a confronting impression, with silver-coated hidden headlights featuring a grille-style graphic seamlessly tying into silver mouldings, rear lights, and roofrails–foraunifiedlook.

Standardkitincludesjustaboutanything you can think of as standard, right down to fingerprintrecognitiontostartthething.

Other goodies include a digital mirror, smart phone lock/unlocking, traffic sign recognition, auto high beam, hands-free parking, side, front and rear parking sensors, two sunroofs, electric tailgate, Nappa leather trim, heated and cooled seats, power-adjust and heated steering wheel, power-fold second and third row seats,andthree-zoneclimatecontrolair.

In fact, packed to the gills and heading down the coast for a week away with the kids, we finally found a use for the loathsome digital mirror which showed what was behind, despite the fact the rear windowwascompletelyblockedbyluggage.

But it’s only good for a glance – anything more is liable to make your car sick as your eyesstruggletoadjust.

Palisade is covered by a seven-year unlimited kilometre warranty, provided you service the car with them – otherwise it’sfiveyears.

The hybrid battery is covered for eight years/160,000km – most people do more than20,000kmayear.

Infotainment

Infotainment extends to navigation-based connected car services and incorporates advanced technologies such as biometric andvoicerecognition,allpresentedthrough anew,intuitiveuserinterface.

There’s satnav, voice control, Bluetooth which can accommodate multiple phones, AM-FM/DAB+ digital radio, plus wireless CarPlay and Android Auto and wireless phonecharging.

Bose premium audio delivers a rich, true-to-life audio experience through an externalamplifierand14speakers.

There are three USB ports in the front (1 x data, 2 x charge), two more for the second row (2 x charge) and another two for the thirdrow(2xcharge),butbearinmindthey are all USB-C, which rules out most flash drives.

There’s also 12-volt outlets in the front and rear as well as a 240-volt socket in the luggagearea.

Safety

With a five-star ANCAP safety rating, Palisade features a suite of eight airbags, including a driver’s knee airbag and a front centresideairbag.

A comprehensive suite of safety features, includes navigation-based smart cruise control, lane following assist 2, highway driving assist 2, and driver monitoring that we’re told improves ADAS accuracy and reliability.

Navigation-based cruise automatically slows the vehicle in anticipation when approachingbends.

Autonomous emergency braking (Car-to-Car,VulnerableRoadUser,Junction & Crossing, Backover and Head-On) as well as a lane support system with lane keep assist(LKA),lanedeparturewarning(LDW) and emergency lane keeping (ELK), and an advancedspeedassistancesystem(SAS)are standard.

The third row caters for small children with ISOFix and top-tether anchor points provided, but a supervision mirror would notgoastray.

Engines/transmissions

The 2.5-litre turbocharged hybrid powertrain is paired with a six-speed automaticanddelivers245kWofpowerand 460Nmoftorque.

Driving It looks big because it is big. At 5065mm it’s 70mm longer than the previous model, and at2970mmhasa70mmlongerwheelbase.

The bigger, blunter facade features an activeairflapthatcloseswhencoolingisnot needed, reducing wind drag by up to eight percent.

RATINGS

Looks: 7.5

Performance: 7.5

Safety: 8

Thirst: 7

Practicality: 7.5

Comfort: 7.5

Tech: 8

Value: 8

Overall: 7.6

The latest self-charging hybrid setup improves on the traditional transmissionmounted electric drive system with its innovativedual-motordesign.

Greater efficiency is achieved by dedicatingonemotortotheregenerationof energy and the other to driving the wheels, rather than using a single motor for both functions.

Enhanced regenerative braking combined with an efficient petrol engine extendsall-electricrangeandenhancedfuel efficiency,inarefinedandenvironmentally sustainablepowertrainpackage.

And here’s one just for the parents out there. Stay Mode lets occupants remain comfortable and connected even when parked, say at the weekend sport, drawing onthehigh-capacitybatterytosafelypower the infotainment system, climate control and other features – all with the engine switchedoff

Meanwhile,youcanplacepersonalitems such as your phone, wallet and keys in the centre console box, push a button and they willbesterilisedusingultravioletlight.

Wealsolikethesensorthatkeepstherear cameraclear,sprayingitwithfluidwhenthe rearwiperisoperative.

The 2.5-litre turbocharged hybrid powertrain, paired with a six-speed automatic, delivers more power and torque than either the previous 3.8-litre petrol engineorthe2.2-litreturbo-diesel.

It delivers 245kW of power and 460Nm of torque,butwithlowerfuelconsumptionata claimed6.8L/100kmonthecombinedcycle. Outstanding.

Ride and handling benefit from local tuning, with evaluation of different suspension components, including springs andanti-rollbars.ThisledtoAussiepassive damper and steering tunes, which have beenadoptedaroundtheworld.

Multi-link rear suspension features passive self-levelling dampers to maintain reartravelwhenheavilyladen.

Noise-reduction measures include acoustic foam-lined 21-inch tyres, layered soundproofing and new, 70 percent larger acoustic cabin floor insulation, plus a new rearquarterpanelacousticpad.

Acurvedpanoramicdisplayincorporates two 12.3-inch digital screens, one for the infotainment display and the other for the instrumentcluster.

In addition, 12-inch head-up display projects key driving, navigation and safety information onto the lower area of the windscreen.However,tothisday,itremains almost invisible if you wear polarised sunglasses.

Moving the gear selector to the steering columnfreesupspaceinthecentreconsole that houses two cupholders, wireless

charging pad, three USB ports, fingerprint sensor and the UV sterilisationbutton.

Mounted on the right, you twist the end to change from drive to reverse and vice-versa, which prevents accidentally selecting the wrong gear – but it canbeconfusingattimes.

All-new Palisade features relaxation comfort seats for the first and second row, with third-row powered seats with fold and dive, slide, and recline functions.Seven-seatvariantsalsofeaturea walk-intiltfunction.

The driver’s seat uses air pockets for optimal fit while dynamically adjusting lateralsupportbasedondrivingconditions.

While remote smart parking assist literally lets users complete perpendicular, parallel, and diagonal parking manoeuvres fromoutsidethecarusingthesmartkey.

AlthoughPalisadeisanSUVandall-wheel drive, the focus is on comfort rather than off-roadability.

Thisisavehiclethatwillhappilynegotiate rough and even muddy dirt roads and tracks,butwewouldn’tbetacklinganything morechallengingbecausethatisnotwhatit isdesignedfor.

Itdoeshowevercomewithafull-sizealloy spare, unlike the majority of hybrids which giveoverthisspacetothebatterypack.

There are three drive modes from which to choose: Custom, Eco, and Sport, but we found the latter a little sharp and happily left it in the default Eco mode which was plentyresponsive.

It’s a quiet cabin with very little engine noise unless pushed hard, but at around 2.3 tonnes it feels heavy and at times cumbersome, and the steering could do withsomeadjustmentoptions.

Itssizecanalsomakeitdifficulttopark. As well as buttons on the seats, there’s a control panel located on the left inside the backwhichtakessometimetolearnhowto useproperly.

Both second and third rows slide and luggage space is abundant with the third rowfolded,andacavernous2081litreswith bothrowsstowed.

Moving the rear seats backwards and forwards for third row access is slow and theopeningcreatedisnothuge,sothethird rowisbettersuitedtochildren–twonimble adultsatbest.

The second-row passenger side seat sometimes failed to move at all and that’s the seat that needs to do all the work, becauseit’ssafertoenterfromthecurbside. With a 72-litre tank it takes regular unleaded and has a range of more than 1000km.

After 1120km we were averaging 7.3L/100km, sometimes even lower than thisfigure.

It’sself-chargingandthe1.65kWhbattery seemstohoveraroundthe60percentmark. Norangeanxietytobefoundhere. Oh, and Palisade has a braked towing capacity of only 2000kg, way down on the benchmark3500kg.

Summing up

If you need to put bums on seats, the Kia Carnival is a no brainer. But if you want an SUV with the option of seating seven or eight (and can afford the ticket), then the Palisadecouldfitthebill.

However, the regular doors and slow-moving power-operated rear seats make entry to the third row tedious for adults, while the Carnival with its sliding reardoorsmakesshortworkoftheprocess. One other point to keep in mind. If you needtoseatthreeinthebacktheeight-seater isabetteroptionasathirdpassengerinthe six-seat version alienates valuable luggage space.

Around the grounds

Scoreboards from round 4 of Bellarine Football League played from 24 to 26 April.

Friday 24 April

Geelong Amateur 2.4(16), 3.7(25), 6.14(50), 7.15(57)

Barwon Heads 1.3(9), 3.8(26), 4.10(34), 6.14(50)

Goals: Geelong Amateur - B. Barnett 2, C. Green 2, R. Ferguson, M. Day, R. Mattner. BarwonHeads-J.Henderson3,K.Smith,K. Polley,D.McMahon.

Best: Geelong Amateur - T. Zeitz, H. Goddard,L.Reilly,N.Beekmans,S.Lloyd,R. Ferguson. Barwon Heads - S. Christensen, K. Polley, H. Hyland, D. McMahon, J. Henderson,N.Young.

Saturday 25 April

Portarlington 3.7(25), 7.12(54), 8.16(64), 12.21(93)

Drysdale 1.3(9), 3.4(22), 4.8(32), 4.10(34)

Goals: Portarlington - S. Scott 2, T. Miles 2, S. Greenhough, D. O’Brien, R. Hayden, N. Lane, P. Eastman, J. Baldi, K. Pickard, M. Turnbull. Drysdale - J. Breust, L. Nelis, Q.

Around the courts

Results and best players from all senior and junior Bellarine Netball League matches played from 24 to 26 April.

A GRADE

Friday 24 April

Geelong Amateur 57 def Barwon Heads 31 Best: Geelong Amateur - Courtney Coutts, ElizaOxley,KeishaGuilmartin.

Saturday 25 April

Portarlington 36 def Drysdale 34

Taylor,J.Jenkins.

Best:Portarlington-J.Jones,S.Greenhough, T. Miles, N. McHugh, P. Eastman, N. Lane. Drysdale - L. Nelis, C. Tainton, J. Breust, J. Jenkins,N.Day,J.Preece.

Newcomb 1.5(11), 9.13(67), 12.16(88), 17.19(121)

Ocean Grove 3.3(21), 5.4(34), 6.5(41), 8.6(54)

Goals: Newcomb - J. Saltalamacchia 4, D. Johnstone 3, J. Duke 2, J. Duncan 2, R. Hollins 2, B. Ritchie, B. Clark, K. Sykstus, L. Wagener. Ocean Grove - L. Waldron 4, J. Paterson2,B.Pohlner,L.Allen.

Best: Newcomb - J. Saltalamacchia, L. Wagener, D. Johnstone, J. Duncan, R. Jackman, R. Hollins. Ocean Grove - K. Reilly, L. Waldron, L. Jarrad, L. Morrow, J. Kneebone,Z.Kneebone.

Sunday 26 April

Torquay 4.3(27), 7.5(47), 14.8(92),

Ashton O’Brien accepts a pass during Ocean Grove’s 57 to 36 win against Newcomb in B Grade. (Ivan Kemp) 546372_07

MonetNew,KelseyWhyte.

Best: Portarlington - Mikayla Mevissen, LauraRobinson,GeorgiaHowell.

Ocean Grove 54 def Newcomb 47 Best: Ocean Grove - Julia Mitchell, Gemma Bell,PerriJones.

Sunday 26 April

Queenscliff 52 def Surf Coast 31 Torquay 60 def Anglesea

Best: Torquay - Sophie Ritchie-Crichton, Kiralee Collings, Daisy O’Kane. Anglesea - Isabella Drenovac, Daisy Sheehy, Tae McGillivray.

B GRADE

Geelong Amateur 54 def Barwon Heads 33

Best: Geelong Amateur - Scarlett Clarke, RhianaBroadbent,DanikaCole.

Portarlington 46 def Drysdale 45 Best: Portarlington - Jamison Camilleri, IsabellaPearce,EllaYoung.

Ocean Grove 57 def Newcomb 36 Torquay 47 def Anglesea 34 Best: Torquay - Leni Gilbert, Eleanor Van Dyk,AbbyPark.

C GRADE

Geelong Amateur 40 def Barwon Heads 30

Best: Geelong Amateur - Maeve Hogan, KellieGibbons,MollyWhite.

Portarlington 37 def Drysdale 30

Best: Portarlington - Lucy Stephens, Alisha Habib, Phoebe Zahl. Drysdale - Millie Wilson,KaylaGriffiths,IsabellaStanley.

Ocean Grove 44 def Newcomb 17

Best: Ocean Grove - Charlotte Gumley,

17.10(112)

Anglesea 3.6(24), 5.9(39), 7.10(52), 7.14(56)

Goals: Torquay - T. Smith 3, T. Diamond 2, M. Boag 2, R. Page 2, J. Dawson 2, B. Dyer 2, N. Turner, H. Trigg, A. Hanley, W. Montebello. Anglesea - A. Braaksma 3, J. Keras,N.Collins,M.Virgona,H.Ling.

Best: Torquay - S. Meagher, M. Boag, J. Darke, T. Smith, H. Mcgowan, T. Diamond. Anglesea - N. Collins, A. Braaksma, J. Carr, J.Ashby,M.Virgona.

Queenscliff 3.4(22), 10.11(71), 15.12(102), 25.15(65)

Surf Coast 5.0(30), 5.0(30), 8.2(50), 8.3(51)

Goals: Queenscliff - I. Grant 10, J. Monahan 5, S. Bowtell 3, J. Cincotta 2, M. Scott 2, J. Lindrea, T. Monahan, L. Kidd. Surf CoastT.Stephen2,A.Black,L.Cartelli.

Best: Queenscliff - I. Grant, L. Kidd, N. Rippon, J. Wright, M. Waight, S. Kalbfell. Surf Coast - J. Lang, T. Lee, H. Gravener, R. Young,T.Schultz,T.Stephen.

Best:Torquay-EllaBeste,KirstenMcCarthy, Kiera McCormack. Anglesea - Georgia Wrigley,JessicaHarding,AmyVanBerkel.

Queenscliff 42 def Surf Coast 27

19 & UNDER

Barwon Heads 32 def Geelong Amateur 29

Best: Barwon Heads - Ivy Dalley, Chelsea Gillett, Olivia Free. Geelong AmateurDanikaCole,JaidaRaco,EvieDawson. Drysdale 45 def Portarlington 34

Best: Drysdale - Annalena Hillier, Mia Gallop, Emma Deretic. PortarlingtonTylah McCleish, Minnie Bettenay, Molly Slavinskis.

Ocean Grove 59 def Newcomb 9

Best: Ocean Grove - Piper Needham, Molly Larsen,CharliGerman.

Torquay 42 def Anglesea 19

Best:Torquay-JessieConnors,SianHughes, Ava Fitzgerald. Anglesea - Maici Kenny, EmeraldBates,MatildaDaffy.

Queenscliff 53 def Surf Coast 9

17 & UNDER DIVISION 1

Geelong Amateur 35 def Barwon Heads 20

Torquay 52 def Anglesea 4

Best: Torquay - Maicie Hay, Holly Read, Harper Edwards. Anglesea - Frances Scanlan,EmilySuzuki,MillaLewtas.

Surf Coast 18 def Queenscliff 15

Ocean Grove 30 def Newcomb 0 by forfeit

15 & UNDER DIVISION 2

Geelong Amateur 45 def Barwon Heads 6 Best:GeelongAmateur-RubyMiller,Joslyn Mangan,OliveLogan.BarwonHeads-Elsie Orgill,FrankieCornell,DarcyCondon. Drysdale 28 def Portarlington 6 Best: Drysdale - Evie Maxwell, Frankie Armstrong, Courtney Carter. Portarlington - Mia Chisholm, Mackenzie Pigdon, Ruby Gray.

Ocean Grove 39 def Newcomb 10 Best: Ocean Grove - Ava Leske, Sophie Batters, Matilda Sproule. Newcomb - Zeta James,MatildaPilven,AshlanVahland. Torquay 65 def Anglesea 11

Best: Torquay - Poppy Cuolahan, Isla McKeag, Elsie Eccles. Anglesea - Coco Byrne,PippaRiddell,SageWoodyatt. Surf Coast 32 def Queenscliff 10

Torquay 34 def Anglesea 17

Best: Torquay - Bethany Garlick, Private player, Lottie Blackwood. Anglesea - Lily Matthews,KateStone,CatieRagg. Queenscliff47defSurfCoast22

D GRADE

Barwon Heads 23 def Geelong Amateur 13

Best: Geelong Amateur - Holly Ellison, PhoebeMurray,IndieJoseph.

Drysdale 26 def Portarlington 21

Best: Drysdale - Monica Gill, Isabella Maier, Rebecca Blair. Portarlington - Kristi Reynolds,MadisonHayes,IsabelKincaid.

Ocean Grove 21 def Newcomb 20

Best: Ocean Grove - Keely Boswell, Lucy Best,LauraAhearn.

Torquay 26 def Anglesea 21

Queenscliff 32 def Surf Coast 31

E GRADE

Geelong Amateur 29 def Barwon Heads 18

Best:GeelongAmateur-HenriettaSargeant, Rebekah Edwards, Eden Holdsworth. Barwon Heads - Ruby Lo, Holly Vincent, CocoThyne.

Drysdale 21 def Portarlington 13

Best: Drysdale - Naomi Ruggles, Leah Bruckner, Mikaela York. PortarlingtonAmelia Baker, Bridget Evenden, Lorelle

Chapman.

Newcomb 25 def Ocean Grove 22

Best: Newcomb - Lauren Velthuis, Ellie Moroney, Michelle Smith. Ocean GroveLilyDavis,HannahQuinn,TahneeAllen. Torquay 42 def Anglesea 13

Best:GeelongAmateur-BaileyShaw,Ginny Brough, Harper Beretta. Barwon HeadsRileyDalley,CharliJanezic,Grace Mithen. Portarlington 27 def Drysdale 15

Best: Portarlington - Teyana Ihimaera-Smiler, Lilli McDonald, Jayda Donegan-Brasier. Drysdale - Lucy Jovanovic,LucyVeenvliet,IsabellaBalodis.

Torquay 40 def Anglesea 12

Best: Anglesea - Ruby Gooday, Macie Bereza,MollyGilbert.

Queenscliff 35 def Surf Coast 20

17 & UNDER DIVISION 2

Geelong Amateur 30 def Barwon Heads 5

Best: Geelong Amateur - Layla Sanders, WillowLogan,DaisyCharters.

Drysdale 35 def Portarlington 16

Best: Drysdale - Lily McKinnis, Monica Lord, Heidi Connor. Portarlington - Mia Kiely,IsabellaHughes,CarysBlewett.

Torquay 37 def Anglesea 14

Best: Torquay - Zoe Morton Cartwright, Scarlett Johnstone, Layla Kenny. Anglesea - Cara Henderson, Myla Stapleton, Millie Binnion.

15 & UNDER DIVISION 1

Geelong Amateur 34 def Barwon Heads 19

Best: Geelong Amateur - Pippa Dow, Lily Peters, Maive McMaster. Barwon HeadsRoma Partos-Slattery, Holly Don, Sascha Gordon.

Portarlington 30 def Drysdale 25

Best: Portarlington - Sarah Grant, Amelia Harrington,LenniWhyley.Drysdale-Milla Leslie,LeilaniKing,BethWilson.

13 & UNDER DIVISION 1

Geelong Amateur 29 def Barwon Heads 20

Best: Geelong Amateur - Dana Sanders, Elkie Knox-Gray, Frankie Parsons. Barwon Heads - Coco Larkin, Chilli Findling, Mila Bacely.

Portarlington 28 def Drysdale 18

Best:Portarlington-LeilaChapman,Maddy Davis, Tate Scutchings. Drysdale - Thea Carter, Elizabeth McCoughtry, Indiannah Brown.

Torquay 39 def Anglesea 13

Best: Anglesea - Neve O’Loughlin, Penny Gray,OliveOlsen.

Surf Coast 39 def Queenscliff 5

13 & UNDER DIVISION 2

Geelong Amateur 41 def Barwon Heads 1

Best: Geelong Amateur - Michaela Desai, Isabel Learey, Ava Harper. Barwon HeadsMaeveBuncle,HazelZanatta,ZoeThorpe. Portarlington 18 def Drysdale 6 Best: Portarlington - Ruby Gainger, Pepper Wright, Zoe Roebuck. Drysdale - Kenzie Marsham, Lexie Taylor-Cole, Isabella Drever.

Ocean Grove 42 def Newcomb 3

Best: Ocean Grove - Olivia Fowler, Saffron Reid, Harriet Kavanagh. NewcombElizabeth Gulino, Pippa Monaghan, Bailey Clowes.

Torquay 52 def Anglesea 2

Best: Torquay - Sophie Cooke, Winnie McKeag,EadieCarty.Anglesea-AyaSolofa, ClancyGilliver,DelilahJacka. Surf Coast 15 def Queenscliff 4

State success for Grovers

By Justin Flynn

Ocean Grove continues to be a bowls heavyweight with two stunning team performances at the Champion of State Pennant titles at Moama.

The Grovers won the Midweek state title and finished runner-up in the Weekend title in a show of strength from the perennially successful local club.

In the Midweek championships, Ocean Grove lost its first game against Portland Memorial by 16 shots, but bounced back in round 2to thrash Bairnsdale by 41.

A commanding round 3 win against Rosebud by 25 shots had the Grovers back on track and by round 4 they were playing great bowls, defeating Newborough by 36.

In the final round, Grove defeated Wangarattaby30shotstofinishontopofthe group and a final against Bendigo awaited.

Tyson Cromie skipped his rink of Mia O’Reilly,PatriaMcGrathandHayleyO’Reilly to a 23-10 win.

Michael West skipped his rink of Casper John, Rod Brehaut and Simon Avery to a 1419 loss, but came back from 3-12 down to keep things tight.

Josh Rudd led his rink of lead Robyn Hunt, second Jen Le Cerf and third Alan Drury to a 17-12 win after the scores were locked at 12-all after 13 ends.

It meant Ocean Grove won 54 to 41 to claim the title.

In the Weekend title round robin games, Ocean Grove defeated Murray Downs by 17 shots in round 1 and accounted for Corowa

in round 2 by 15.

Home side Moama got the better of the round 3 match-up by four shots and in round 4, Ararat based Chalambar Golf was no match for the Grovers with an 84 to 19 thrashing.

Grove then beat Ballarat side Victoria by 24 shots in round 5 and finished on top of its group to meet Moonee Valley in the final.

The Valley was too good, winning 50 to 33 with Grove’s team of skips Brad Pavey, Matt Flapper, Tyson Cromie, leads Robyn Hunt, Hayley O’Reilly, Craig Rippon, seconds Zak Abro, Josh Rudd, Max Rowley and thirds Chris Price, Peter Loe and Tony Joel beaten but not disgraced, finishing state runnersup.

In other recent events, Pavey claimed silver in the Champion of Champions, Maddie Jacobs, Mia O’Reilly, Hayley O’Reilly and Drysdale’s Maya Rees were

state women’s fours champions, Rowley and Rudd were men’s pairs runners-up and young gun Herbie Clark won the open Under 13 state title.

Geelong sends 12 teams to Victorian championships

LOCAL TENNIS

Donna Schoenmaekers

Tennis Geelong Saturday Winter Pennants start next week, but this week Tennis Victoria hosted the State League Championships for premiership teams from across the state for the state title at their level.

Tennis Geelong had 12 teams enter in a total of 113 spread across 20 sections.

SaturdaywinterpremiersWesternHeights

Uniting (2 Men), Grovedale Black (3 Open) both played well but missed out on finals, as did summer premiers Highton Gold (3 Open) and Grovedale Black (5 Open).

There were six triples teams - Leopold’s Deuce of Hazzard (Winter S3) and Moolap’s Two Phones Chol (Spring S1) and Zing Kings (Winter S2) all posting a win in their three matches, but were overshadowed by the four teams that made their finals.

Saturday Summer 6 Mixed premiers Ocean Grove White won through to the Section 14 final on clay at Dingley, winning two of their pool matches but dropping their clash with Bendigo’s Strathdale Park Stars. The final was a rematch with Strathdale Park, but they proved too strong, winning the first two sets, then took unassailable lead in the

(Pictures: Supplied)

third and fourth sets. The standout player for the day was Deb Maud.

Highton Flyers, premiers from Triples Winter S5, played and won two pool matches with their final match against the also undefeatedBaysideStPaul’sKnights.Despite being very competitive, the Knights were too good, taking a clean sweep, but the team had an amazing weekend, full of fantastic hitting against the most lovely opponents.

Triples Spring S5 premiers Leopold Hit for Brains won all three of their Section 12

pool matches 3-1, to earn a place in the final against unbeaten Central Wimmera’s Central Park.

It was a close affair with Hayden Walters and Georgia Verlin winning the first set 8-5 while Dwayne Thompson and Amy Lizmore went down 8-4. Verlin and Lizmore battled through to win the fourth set in a tie-break, but Central Park were too good in the third winning 8-2 and overall by six games.

Tuesday Women’s Grovedale Yellow (Winter S5) won all of their pool matches in

Women’sS5withoutdroppingasetandfaced Lilydale’s Ringwood Central Yarrawongals at Royal South Yarra in the final.

Tina Thorburn and Kim Wells struggled in the first set going down 8-2 while Stacey Jensen and Jenny Schmidt kept the team in touch winning 8-3. Thorburn and Jensen kept Grovedale in the hunt winning 8-3, but theteamwentdown8-3inthefinalset,giving the win to Yarrawongal’s by just one game.

Triples Spring S2 premiers Hamlyn Park HEAT played at Monash Tennis Centre and all members were up for the challenge and excited for the opportunity to represent their club and the wider Tennis Geelong sporting community at the event. There were storylines everywhere over the four matches with two good wins and a loss by just two games.

HEAT made the final, coming up against Western Region’s Melton South All Stars.

After the first two sets, the teams were deadlocked and things stayed tight through thefinaltwo,includingthelastpointoftheday whichwentfor25shots.Itwasacombination of solid groundstrokes, midcourt half volleys, lob volley, side switching on multiple occasions with a final winning volley, with HEAT taking the win by two games.

World bowls event heads to Ocean Grove under the roof at the Dome

Ocean Grove Bowling Club is ready for an international influx when it hosts the World Bowls Indoor Championship from 11 to 16 May.

Some of the biggest names in the sport will be competing under the Dome at Ocean Grove with no fewer than six former champions among the 62-player field representing 33 member nations. Add five former World Bowls Junior Indoor Championship gold medal winners, Commonwealth Games and World Championships medallists plus three reigning World Cup medallists and

it is an impressive line-up.

New countries competing for the first time in the event are Croatia, Fiji, India, Nigeria, Niue and Sri Lanka.

Three of the most sought-after titles in indoor bowls are up for grabs – the men’s and women’s singles and mixed pairs.

Defending men’s and women’s singles champions Australia’s Jack McShane and Scotland’s Sophie McGrouther will be bidding to defend their titles.

The women’s competition includes Australia’s highly-decorated Kelsey Cottrell, who was the inaugural No 1

ranked female when the World Bowls Series ranking list was launched in June 2024 (current No 10) and won the mixed pairs in this championship in 2023. Cottrell played one Premier Pennant game for Drysdale last season in a guest appearance.

TheWorldBowlsIndoorChampionship is a platinum event on the World Bowls Series (WBS) calendar.

The WBS was launched in 2024 and is the official year-long calendar of sanctioned events connecting to the official world rankings. It is a joint venture

between World Bowls and Tier 5 Ventures.

The sanctioned events occur across the globe and will feature a mixture of existing and new events.

The 2026 calendar has a record 38 sanctioned events, including the Commonwealth Games which takes place in Glasgow in July and the World Bowls champion of champions in October.

The opening ceremony is on Sunday 10 May at 5pm at Ocean Grove Bowling Club. See worldbowls.com/2026-worldbowls-indoor-championship for more information.

Grubbers take the points

Voice photographer Ivan Kemp was at Grinter Reserve on Anzac Day to see Newcomb host Ocean Grove in Bellarine Netball League B Grade and the Grubbers recorded a 21-goal win.

Newcomb powers on

Newcomb hosted Ocean Grove at Grinter Reserve on Anzac Day and the Power got the win by 67 points and Voice photographer Ivan Kemp took these pics.

Testing three weeks ahead

By Justin Flynn

Drysdale is the only Bellarine Football League side without a win after round 4 while Ocean Grove faces a nightmare three weeks ahead.

The Hawks lost to northern neighbour Portarlington on Anzac Day and face Surf Coast on Saturday 2 May and Ocean Grove meets competition heavyweights Torquay, Geelong Amateur and Queenscliff in the coming weeks.

But rather than dread the three daunting matchups, Grubbers’ coach Dave Farrell said his players would embrace the challenge.

“We’re process driven rather than reactive so while there’s some adjustments we can make in our preparation this week, it’s business as usual,” he said after his side lost to Newcomb by 67 points on Anzac Day.

“Our playing group love playing against, and learning, from the best in the competition, but they are also hugely competitive, whether it’s at training or in games. They won’t take a backward step based on reputation or results, it’s really unique and I love them for it.”

While Newcomb proved too good for Grove at Grinter Reserve, the Grubbers posted their first win of the season on 18 April against Drysdale.

Trailing by 17 points at the last change, Grove stormed home with eight last-quarter goals to win by 11 points, although Farrell wasn’t taking any credit for the comeback.

“Any credit goes to the players there, they were really keen at three-quarter time to double down on what had been working for us and what we’ve been training to,” he said.

“They continued to take the game on, were aggressive in their kick selection and attack and adamant about not going negative when we edged in front.

“It showed really good maturity and alignment - pretty proud coaching moment for us watching on.

“It’s been a while since we’ve managed to get a win over Drysdale. The crowd and support was massive and I imagine it was a really good game to watch.

“I am sure there were plenty of invested onlookers wondering about the resolve of our side this year and was really proud of and pleased for the players to be recognised for their hard work and commitment levels.”

Three first-term goals had the Grubbers up by 10 points against Newcomb, but the Power went on to kick 16 of the remaining

21 majors to win by 67 points.

“You can see in Newcomb the benefit in having a really settled list and only adding a sprinkling of new faces each year,” Farrell said.

“The familiarity and predictability builds consistency. While we couldn’t bring that for four full quarters there were periods of the game that certainly showed signs we have great foundations of that and we’re looking at ways to fast-track those connections.”

Zane Kneebone kept dangerous Power forward Jack Duke to two goals for the game.

There was plenty of discussion within the coaching group around the Duke match up and it kept coming back around to Zane Kneebone,” Farrell said.

“He can play tall and small, has great awareness and gets the best of support from the defenders around him because he’s such a great teammate. He was super and I am really excited about his next few weeks, too.”

GEELONG Amateur and Barwon Heads kicked off the round under lights at Queens

Unbeaten, but Grubbers yet to hit full stride

By Justin Flynn

It’s not often you would say a side has had a relatively slow start to the season with four wins and no losses, but reigning A Grade premiers Ocean Grove are nowhere near hitting full stride yet.

With a new side and different combinations to sort out as well as player unavailability, the Grubbers have done enough to win.

They defeated Newcomb by seven goals on Anzac Day despite missing midcourter Georgia Ryan and defender Emma Jones to a running event while defender Amanda O’Malley is completing a family holiday.

Star goaler Zanna Punshon said the honour of playing on Anzac Day was something not to be taken for granted.

“It’s such a small thing that we can do to recognise what’s happened before us and then to take the time out and come together as two clubs to appreciate something that’s so much bigger than what we’re doing,” she said.

“To be able to take the time out and to re-

ally pay our respects as one whole group of one whole community was just so special.”

Punshon said her side will likely develop as the season progresses.

“We don’t want to hit our strides too early,” she said.

“We want to keep developing and I think we’re still putting out some good netball at the moment, but we definitely feel like there’s so many areas for improvement and that goes across the board.

“We’re all in agreeance there’s more that we can do. We’ve had some unavailability at the start of the season, which has disrupted that a little bit, but to still come out with the four wins has been really nice for us.”

Sofia Dickeson set the tone early for the Grubbers, coming up from B Grade to make a huge intercept early in the game.

“Fi (Dickeson) made her A Grade debut after playing C Grade last year, which is insane,” Punshon said.

“She came on with an amazing intercept to start us off so it just goes to show our depth and we do have a lot of trust in our players.”

Recruit Julia Mitchell had the tough assignment on star Newcomb sharpshooter Carly Sanders, who shot 41 goals from 48 attempts. It’s almost impossible to keep Sanders quiet all game.

“Obviously Carly’s a good shooter for them and she’s super dominant,” Punshon said.

“We really tried to focus on scoring off our centre passes and treating anything else as a bonus and protecting the ball that our defenders worked hard to get us. But it was a real 60-minute game and it was a full team performance.”

Punshon is enjoying being reunited with Bridgette Vos in goal. The two played VNL and at Leopold together.

“I absolutely love playing with Bridgette,” she said.

“It just feels like riding a bike when I play with Bridgette. She’s just such a lovely girl as well, but it feels like one brain (playing together), so I’ve been really enjoying having her back.”

Ocean Grove faces a tough three weeks ahead with Torquay (second), Geelong Am-

Park on Friday 24 April and it was Ammos who prevailed by seven points. With scores tied at the 19-minute mark of the final term, Riley Ferguson kicked truly two minutes later and Ammos held on.

IZAAC Grant booted 10 goals for Queenscliff in a 114-point win against Surf Coast. Grant has 16 goals for the season, three behind Jordan Monahan, who kicked five.

PORTARLINGTON got onto the winner’s list with a 59-point win against Drysdale. Josh Jones kept Jack Hargreaves goalless while ruckman Scott Greenhough won the KC Purnell Medal for best afield.

TORQUAY won the Surf Coast derby with a 56-point triumph against Anglesea. The Tigers led by eight points at half-time, but the Seas could manage only two goals for the remainder of the game with Tynan Smith adding three goals to his league leading tally of 20.

ateur (first) and Queenscliff (sixth) in consecutive games.

“I think we’ve got a bit of a tough run coming up, but it’s been a good warm up into the season,” Punshon said.

“We’ve had some challenges already and like I said, we’ve not had our full strength side in every game. Wins would be lovely across the board, but I think what’s more important to us is putting out a performance that we’re proud of and that we’re making KPIs that we can stick to.

“We don’t really want to be playing our best netball just yet. We’ve got plenty of weeks for that to come in time, but it will be a really good chance for us to see where we stand against some of these strong sides.”