The role surf lifesaving clubs play, not only in keeping beachgoers safe but also in connecting the community, cannot be overstated.
And Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club (OGSLSC) is no exception.
Ocean Grove surf lifesavers have plucked stranded swimmers from the waves since 18 November 1948 and the club – rightly so – has become a local institution creating lifelong friendships among its members.
Last November the club marked 75 years since it officially affiliated with Life Saving Victoria and this February it held a family day to celebrate the milestone.
That theme continues on Saturday 22 June at the OGSLSC Senior Presentation Night in which the club will again acknowledge this important anniversary.
I congratulate this year’s awardees in advance and thank all club members for the important work you do in keeping our community safe and engaged.
In more good news for those who love getting into the water, council recently voted to keep the North Bellarine Aquatic Centre open throughout the cooler months.
The centre, located just up the road in Drysdale, will remain open from 6am to 10am on weekdays and 8am to noon on Saturdays, following extensive community feedback.
We reached this decision after listening closely to the Bellarine community and I am thrilled the centre will continue to be used in winter by swimmers and residents who just enjoy the warm water and socialising.
And the design of stage two of this facility will soon commence following a recently executed $20 million funding agreement with the Australian government.
As part of the $40.3 million project, an indoor aquatic centre will be built next to the 50-metre heated outdoor pool delivered in stage one.
The detailed design will also include a gym and group exercise studios, a cafe and social space and changerooms, with construction works pencilled in to start in late 2025.
The Victorian government has also committed $20 million, with council to contribute the remaining $300,000.
Meanwhile, Ocean Grove’s foodies and culinary critics can satisfy their cravings this winter with the 13th Tastes of Greater Geelong kicking off on 21 June.
This year’s festival features a Winter Warm Up’ solstice celebration, tasting trails and an exclusive farm-to-table experience with Masterchef alumni, plant-based cook and sustainability advocate Simon Toohey.
Closer to home, The Dunes, Yes Bar, Flying Brick Cider Co and At The Heads are all getting involved, serving up cocktails and camembert, multi-course menus and drink specials along with scenic rural and ocean views.
And around the Bellarine there is even more on offer with gourmet BBQ feasts at The Range @ Curlewis, a beer versus wine event on the Q-Train and a voyage across Port Phillip Bay in search of mouthwatering mussels with Portarlington Mussel Tours, just to mention a few.
I encourage everyone to check out this year’s program and indulge your senses at all the fantastic wine and dining destinations Greater Geelong has to offer.
For more info visit: geelongaustralia.com.au/tastes
