Geelong & The Bellarine - Business Events Geelong

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Geelong & The Bellarine - Business Events Geelong
Geelong &
The Bellarine
Geelong & The Bellarine - Business Events Geelong
WE’RE GLAD YOU’RE HERE
                           Here, there, everywhere         4
                           Getting around                  7     ACCOMMODAT ION
                           What’s on 2018                  9   Geelong                               70
                                                               Portarlington to St Leonards          82
                             DISCOVER                          Queenscliff                           87
                                                               Point Lonsdale                        91
                           Escape to the coast            20
                                                               Ocean Grove                           94
                           Precious family time           22
                                                               Barwon Heads                          98
                           Adventure time                 30
                           Find hidden cool               35
                           Go out to eat or eat outside   41     MAPS
                           Learning disguised as fun      50   Geelong                                77
                           Handmade with love by locals   56   Portarlington                          83
                                                               Queenscliff                            88
                             EXPLORE T HE                      Point Lonsdale                         91
                                                               Ocean Grove                            95
                             TOWNS                             Barwon Heads                           99
                                                               Geelong and The Bellarine             102
                           Geelong                        68
                           The Bellarine                  78
                                                                    Visitor Information Centres      101
                           Portarlington to St Leonards   80
                           Queenscliff                    84
                                                               COVER IMAGE: Eastern Beach, Geelong
                           Point Lonsdale                 89   by: jacobhestonphotography.com
                           Ocean Grove                    92
                           Barwon Heads                   96

                                                                                                           3
www.adventurepark.com.au
Geelong & The Bellarine - Business Events Geelong
Geelong Waterfront

                                                        From the HILLS TO THE COAST and every

        HERE, THERE,
                                                        town, precinct and hot spot in between,
                                                        we’ll help you find your best highlights
                                                        across our region.

        EVERYWHERE                                      Geelong has emerged from a hard-
                                                        working wool centre and manufacturing
                                                        town to be reinvented as a city with an
                                                        enviable lifestyle.
                                                        Incredible places to eat and drink dotted
                                                        through precincts across the city, combined
                                                        with a fresh approach to culture and a
                                                        sparkling event calendar, makes Geelong an
                                                        ideal destination to explore.
                                                        Half an hour from the city in any direction
                                                        leads to deliciousness. On The Bellarine and
                                                        across the Moorabool Valley, exceptional
                                                        produce is grown in farm fresh air alongside
                                                        some of Australia’s most awarded wineries
                                                        and vineyards. Many have fabulous
                                                        restaurants attached serving produce from
                                                        nearby and matched with a glass of the
                                                        region’s best.
                                                        Around The Bellarine, towns overlook bays
                                                        and oceans. You’ll find great coffee, secret
                                                        shopping spots and fun activities, all with a
                                                        fresh sea breeze. You needn’t travel far to feel
                                                        like you’re a million miles away. This coast
                                                        is the perfect, easy escape, a place to enjoy
                                                        days as action-packed as you want, then
                                                        relax and fall asleep to the sounds of the sea.

                                                        1. Queenscliff Harbour

                                                                                                           1

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Geelong & The Bellarine - Business Events Geelong
QUEENSCLIFF - SORRENTO
                                                                                          GETT ING
                                                                                          AROUND
                                                                                      GETTING HERE                                     By Rail: V/Line trains run regularly between
                                                                                      By Air. Avalon Airport is 20 minutes from        Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station and

                          EXPLORE
                                                                                      Geelong and Melbourne Airport is an hour         Geelong, and buses link train services to the
                                                                                      away. Jetstar service Avalon Airport from        towns and suburbs of The Bellarine. Check
                                                                                      Sydney, Gold Coast, Hobart and Adelaide.         Public Transport Victoria for travel times.
                                                                                      Pick up a rental car at either airport or take   By Road: Geelong is an hour from
                                                                                      the SkyBus into Geelong from Avalon or the       Melbourne CBD via the Westgate Bridge

                          TRAVEL
                                                                                      Gull Airport Service from Melbourne Airport.     and Princes Freeway. Bellarine and regional
                                                                                      By Sea: Searoad Ferries connect Queenscliff      towns are within half an hour of Geelong.
                                                                                      and The Bellarine with the Mornington
                                                                                                                                       GETTING AROUND
                                                                                      Peninsula, the Eastern suburbs of
                                                                                      Melbourne and Phillip Island. Park your car      It’s a compact region, easy to explore by
                                                                                                                                       car. Drive half an hour from Geelong in

                           RELAX
                                                                                      below deck, enjoy a coffee and spectacular
                                                                                      views, perhaps encounter dolphins and            any direction to discover a new experience
                                                                                      relax knowing you’ve avoided a tussle            – delicious food and wine, spectacular
                                                                                      with Melbourne city traffic. The 40 minute       coastline, historic towns or adventures
                                                                                      crossing departs every hour, every day           in nature. If you’d rather relax and let
                                                                                      between 7am-6pm (plus a 7pm service from         someone else worry about the driving,
                                                                                      26 December – 31 January and peak times).        there are plenty of tour companies
                                                                                                                                       offering personalised service. A guided
                                                                                      Port Phillip Ferries offer a daily passenger
                                                                                                                                       regional tour or winery wanders, or even
                                                                                      service between Melbourne Docklands
                                                                                                                                       a cruise around the region in a vintage
                                                                                      and Portarlington on The Bellarine. It’s an
                                                                                                                                       convertible – there’s a service to suit your
                                                                                      ideal stepping off point for a day by the
                                                                                                                                       style. Check our website to find a tour –
                                                                                      seaside or to explore the nearby wineries,
                                                                                                                                       visitgeelongbellarine.com.au
                                                                                      restaurants and local produce. Check
                                                                                      portphillipferries.com.au for timetables.
                                                                             40 min

                                                                             BOOK
                 Car and Passenger ferry                                    ONLINE
                                                                            & SAVE
                     Every day, every hour on the hour 7am - 6pm
           Connecting the Bellarine and Mornington Peninsulas and beyond.
•40 minute crossing•Easy drive on/drive off•Internal and external observation decks                                                                           Touring with Mustang & Co
               •Dolphin spotting•Onboard cafe & bar •All weather

          www.searoad.com.au or call 03 5257 4500                                                                                                                                         7
Geelong & The Bellarine - Business Events Geelong
GETTING AROUND

                              PORTARLINGTON – DOCKLANDS
                                                                             WHAT ’S ON
       SAILING                                                               20I8
      365 DAYS
        A YEAR

     The city and the
     coast just got closer
     Take a day trip across Port Phillip Bay
     for your next adventure.                                        BOOK
                                                                    ONLINE
                                                                     NOW

                     03 9514 8959 | www.portphillipferries.com.au

                                                                                                                              Geelong Waterfront

        Wherever your Adventure takes you...                                              1

                                                                                              Geelong and The Bellarine hosts a myriad
                    Campers - Caravans - Pop tops                                             EVENTS SCHEDULE, from mussels to cars,
                        Expandas - Motorhomes                                                 music and yachts, major international
                                                                                              sporting events to cultural celebrations,
                  - Custom made canvas products                                               there’s always something on. Here’s some to
              Plus all your Service & Accessories needs                                       get you started, check our website for more:
                                                                                              visitgeelongbellarine.com.au
    182 -194 Bellarine Hwy, Newcomb GEELONG
           PH 03 5248 6655 Open 7 days
            www.prestigejayco.com.au                                                          1. Queenscliff Music Festival

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Geelong & The Bellarine - Business Events Geelong
DECEMBER 1 - MAY 13                 JANUARY 6                                                                   JANUARY 26

WILDLIFE                            RIP TO RIVER                                                                AUSTRALIA DAY POLO
PHOTOGRAPHER OF                     Point Lonsdale to                                                           Eastern Park, Geelong
THE YEAR EXHIBITION                 Ocean Grove                                                                 A glamorous day out at
National Wool Musuem,               Run or walk 10km along the                                                  Eastern Park with action on
Geelong                             picturesque coastline from                                                  and off the field. See high
The world-renowned                  the Point Lonsdale lighthouse                                               fashion, household names and
exhibition, on loan from the        to Ocean Grove.                                                             exciting polo.
Natural History Museum in
                                    oceangroveslsc.asn.au                JANUARY 13                             australiadaypolo.com.au               FEBRUARY 1-4
London, opens in December
2017. The 100 extraordinary                                              PORTARLINGTON                                                                OATES VICTORIAN
images celebrate the diversity      JANUARY 6                            MUSSEL FESTIVAL                                                              OPEN (GOLF)
of the natural world, from                                                                                                                            13th Beach Golf Links,
                                    TWILIGHT AT THE TRACK                Portarlington
intimate animal portraits to                                                                                                                          Barwon Heads
astonishing wild landscapes.        Geelong Racing Club                  A great day out for the
                                                                         whole family, highlighting                                                   Walk the course watching
                                    Hear music royalty, Jimmy                                                                                         some of Australia’s best golfers
eventsgeelong.com.au
                                    Barnes perform live at the           local produce, especially                                                                                       FEBRUARY 3
                                                                         Portarlington’s delicious                                                    and an array of international
                                    Geelong Racecourse in a                                                                                           talent as they battle it out for   FLYING BRICK
                                    star-studded musical affair.         mussels.
                                                                                                                                                      $1.3 million in prizes.            BELLARINE SUNSET RUN
                                    empiretouring.com.au                 portmusselfestival.com                                                                                          Portarlington
                                                                                                                                                      vicopengolf.com
                                                                                                                                                                                         21.8k, 10.5k or 4k fun run
                                                                                                                                                                                         along scenic trails of the
                                                                                                                                                      FEBRUARY 2,9,16,23                 beautiful Bellarine Peninsula.
                                                                                                                JANUARY 26-28                         NIGHTJAR IN THE CITY               bellarinesunsetrun.com
                                                                                                                175th FESTIVAL OF SAILS               Johnstone Park, Geelong
JANUARY 3
                                                                                                                Geelong Waterfront                    Friday nights will be
T20 BIG BASH                                                                                                                                          transformed in February with
CRICKET – MELBOURNE                                                                                             An incredible week of sailing
                                                                                                                plus a huge shoreside festival        Nightjar in the City. Try food
RENEGADES v                                                                                                                                           from around the world, street
                                                                                                                across the Australia Day long
SYDNEY SIXERS                                                                 ©2017 Gullane (Thomas) Limited                                          performers, a bar and a
                                                                              ©2017 HIT Entertainment Limited   weekend. Includes a fireworks
GMHBA Stadium, Geelong                                                                                          extravaganza.                         children’s area.
A first for Geelong, see            JANUARY 6 -7 & 20 -21, APRIL 7-8, OC TOBER 13-14                                                                  nightjarfestival.com.au
                                                                                                                festivalofsails.com.au
Melbourne Renegades take
                                    DAY OUT WITH THOMAS
on Sydney Sixers, including a
full Big Bash family festival at    Bellarine Railway, Queenscliff
Kardinia Park.                      Meet Thomas the Tank Engine and his friends, Douglas, Oliver,
                                    Henry, the Troublesome Trucks and Sir Topham Hatt in Queenscliff.
melbournerenegades.com.au
                                    bellarinerailway.com.au/day-out-with-thomas

JANUARY 6                                                                                                                                                                                FEBRUARY 10
                                    JANUARY 13                           JANUARY 26
HYUNDAI A-LEAGUE –                                                                                                                                                                       GEELONG HERITAGE
MELBOURNE VICTORY                   THE TEMPEST AT                       AUSTRALIA DAY                                                                                                   WINE WALK
v CENTRAL COAST                     THE GEELONG                          FAMILY FUN DAY                                                                                                  Central Geelong
MARINERS                            BOTANIC GARDENS                      Rippleside Park, Drumcondra
                                                                                                                JANUARY 26-28                                                            Explore a handpicked
GMHBA Stadium, Geelong              Geelong Botanic Gardens              Celebrate Australia Day at                                                                                      selection of Geelong’s best
                                                                                                                CADEL EVANS GREAT OCEAN ROAD RACE
In an A-League blockbuster,         Prepare to be spellbound as          Rippleside Park with over 40                                                                                    heritage buildings as they
see Melbourne Victory play          OZACT presents The Tempest,          free activities and displays for       Geelong - Barwon Heads - Torquay                                         open their doors, transforming
Central Coast Mariners as the       Shakespeare’s timeless tale of       families and children to enjoy.        Enjoy a weekend of the world’s best cycling, bringing high               into the ultimate cellar door
sun sets over GMHBA Stadium.        magic, mystery and mayhem.           Entertainment all day long.            excitement and intense competition to Geelong and the coast.             experience.

melbournevictory.com.au             www.ozact.com                        eventsgeelong.com.au                   cadelevansgreatoceanroadrace.com.au                                      geelongheritagewinewalk.com.au

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Geelong & The Bellarine - Business Events Geelong
FEBRUARY 16 -18                      FEBRUARY 24                                                                                                                                                M ARCH 13-18

IRONMAN 70.3 GEELONG                 GEELONG ATHLETICS GIFT                                                                                                                                     FESTIVAL OF THE SEA
Geelong Waterfront                   Steampacket Gardens,                                                                                                                                       Barwon Heads
A multi-looped fast course,          Geelong                                                                                                                                                    The annual festival brings
IRONMAN 70.3 Geelong                 Be trackside as Steampacket                                                                                                                                together a huge array of family
tests avid triathletes looking       Gardens is transformed to host                                                                                                                             fun with the highlight being
for a challenging and unique         this running carnival - a lead                                                                                                                             the duck race on the Barwon.
event experience.                    up event to the Stawell Gift.
                                                                          MARCH 3                                                                                                               festivalofthesea.com.au
ironman.com                          val.org.au                           GEELONG ALL                                    MARCH 4
                                                                          HOLDEN DAY                                     STRAWBERRY FAIR                                                        M ARCH 16 -18
                                                                          Geelong Showgrounds                            Wallington Primary School
                                                                                                                                                                                                HEAD OF THE
                                                                          Explore a huge display of                      Grab some strawberries at the iconic annual event which has            SCHOOLGIRLS REGATTA
                                                                          vehicles spanning the early                    something for everyone! Food, entertainment, auctions, rides
                                                                          days of Holden right up to                                                                                            Barwon River, Geelong
                                                                                                                         and stalls.
                                                                          the latest VF Commodores.                                                                                             Cheer on the girls as they
                                                                                                                         wallington-ps.vic.edu.au                                               race in the pinnacle event of
                                                                          fx-hxcarclub.com                                                                                                      the schoolgirl rowing season
                                                                                                                                                                                                in Victoria.
                                                                                                                                                             M ARCH 10 -12
                                                                          MARCH 3
                                                                                                                                                             WOODEN BOAT                        rowingvictoria.asn.au

FEBRUARY 17
                                                                          A DAY ON THE GREEN                                                                 FESTIVAL OF GEELONG
                                                                          – ROBBIE WILLIAMS                                                                  Geelong Waterfront
GREAT AUSTRALIAN BEER FESTIVAL                                                                                                                                                                  M ARCH 17-18 & 24 -25
                                                                          Mt Duneed Estate                                                                   Celebrate the history, tradition
Geelong Racecourse                                                                                                                                                                              GOLDEN PLAINS
                                                                          International superstar Robbie                                                     and heritage of wooden boats
Spend a summer’s day meandering through Australia’s biggest                                                                                                                                     ARTS TRAIL
                                                                          Williams will be rocking the                                                       of all kinds along the Geelong
alfresco craft beer garden, sipping, sampling and tasting some of         huge crowd amongst the vines                                                       Waterfront – on and off water.     Golden Plains
the 150 craft beers and ciders on offer.                                  at Mt Duneed Estate.                                                                                                  Artists and makers from across
                                                                                                                         M ARCH 10 -12
                                                                                                                                                             woodenboatfestivalgeelong.com.au   Golden Plains Shire open their
gabfgeelong.com.au                                                        adayonthegreen.com.au                          GOLDEN PLAINS                                                          homes, studios and hearts for
                                                                                                                         FESTIVAL                                                               a weekend of inspiration.
                                                                                             Photo courtesy Phil Hines   Meredith Amphitheatre
FEBRUARY 18                                                                                                                                                                                     artstrail.com.au
                                                                                                                         The Golden Plains Festival is
KIWANIS ALL FORD DAY                                                                                                     held over three days during
Deakin University,                                                                                                       the Victorian Labour Day
Waurn Ponds                                                                                                              long-weekend on farmland
Explore the largest display                                                                                              in Meredith.
of Ford vehicles anywhere in
                                                                                                                         2018.goldenplains.com.au
Australia! Over 1,000 will
be on display.                                                                                                                                               M A R C H 11

allfordday.org.au                                                                                                        M A R C H 11                        A DAY ON THE GREEN
                                                                                                                                                             – ALMIGHTY MONSTER                 MARCH 18
                                                                                                                         BELLARINE
                                                                                                                         AGRICULTURAL SHOW                   LINE-UP                            GEELONG HIGHLAND
FEBRUARY 18                                                                                                                                                                                     GATHERING
                                                                                                                         Portarlington                       Mt Duneed Estate
FESTIVAL OF GLASS                    FEBRUARY 24
                                                                                                                                                                                                Goldsworthy Reserve, Corio
                                                                                                                         Toss a gumboot, climb the           Prepare for iconic indie rock
Christian College, Drysdale          PAKO FESTA                                                                          rock wall, get your face            anthems when The Living End,       Get your kilt out and see all
Glass artists, demonstrations,       Pakington Street, Geelong West                                                      painted for free, take a selfie     Spiderbait, Veruca Salt, The       things Scottish! From pipes
collectables and sales. Awards       Enjoy an exciting program of non-stop free entertainment. Try                       on the tractor, check out the       Lemonheads, Tumbleweed             and drums to Highland
for sculptural, functional and       fabulous cultural food, see traditional dancing, live music and watch               animals – just a few of the         and The Fauves combine for         dancing, the Highland Games
wearable glass art.                  the famous Pako Street Parade.                                                      things to do at this event.         an almighty day.                   to traditional Scottish food.
festivalofglass.net.au               pakofesta.com.au                                                                    bellarineshow.com.au                adayonthegreen.com.au              geelonghighlandgathering.org.au

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Geelong & The Bellarine - Business Events Geelong
MAY 13                             JUNE 21-23, JUNE 29-JULY 1, JULY 6 -8 & 13-15

                                                                           MOTHER’S DAY CLASSIC               QUEENSCLIFFE WINTER WEEKENDS
                                                                           Geelong Waterfront                 Queenscliff and Pt Lonsdale
                                                                           A fun run and walk that            Over four weekends, a collection of cultural, artistic and active
                                                                           provides the community             experiences saluting the historical significance of place and
                                                                           with a great way to celebrate      celebrating all things warm and wonderful.
                                                                           Mother’s Day and raise funds
                                                                           for breast cancer research.        queenscliffe.vic.gov.au/events
MARCH 25

LARA FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL                                                mothersdayclassic.com.au
                                                                                                              JULY 6-29                             OCTOBER 18-21
Pirra Homestead, Lara
                                                                                                              TASTES OF CENTRAL                     ROYAL GEELONG SHOW
Let your senses guide you around Pirra Homestead, trying an
                                                                           JUNE 8 - AUGUST 26                 GEELONG                               Geelong Showgrounds
array of food and wine while listening to sound styling by talented                                                                                                                         NOVEMBER 6
local musicians.                                                           SCARF FESTIVAL                     Central Geelong                       Try your luck at a sideshow,
                                                                                                                                                                                            CENTRAL GEELONG
                                                                           National Wool                      Get your tastebuds ready…             grab a show bag, meet a furry
larafoodandwinefestival.com.au                                                                                                                                                              SHOPPING FESTIVAL +
                                                                           Museum, Geelong                    The weather outside might be          friend, test your nerves on a
                                                                                                                                                                                            SIDEWALK SALES
                                                                                                              chilly but Central Geelong’s          fun-filled ride, see the nation’s
                                                                           This must-see textile                                                                                            Central Geelong
                                                                                                              cafés and restaurants will            best shearers and enjoy horse
                                     MAY - EVERY WEEKEND                   exhibition is an eclectic
                                                                                                              be heating up with amazing            competitions.                           It’s the biggest day of the year
                                                                           showcase of original
                                     QUEENSCLIFFE                                                             foodie experiences.                                                           to flock to Central Geelong for
                                                                           handcrafted scarves entered                                              royalgeelongshow.org.au
                                     LITERARY FESTIVAL                                                                                                                                      a fantastic day out, to snap up
                                                                           by anyone - from school            centralgeelong.com.au
                                     Queenscliff and surrounds             kids to beginner crafters to                                                                                     a bargain, enjoy a long lunch
                                                                           accomplished artisans from                                                                                       and be entertained.
                                     A boutique literary festival
                                     incorporating the long running        Australia and the world. The       SEPTEMBER 22 -                                                                centralgeelong.com.au
                                     community based “Sea of               Scarf Festival 2018 theme is       NOVEMBER 18
                                     Words” festival, celebrating          “Living on the Land”.              2018 ARCHIBALD PRIZE
                                     Australian author talent.                                                Geelong Gallery                                                               NOVEMBER 10
                                                                           geelongaustralia.com.au/
                                     queenscliffeliteraryfestival.com.au   scarffestival                      Australia’s favourite art             OCTOBER 24                              GALA PARADE
                                                                                                              award, and one of its most            GEELONG CUP                             Central Geelong
MAY 4                                                                                                         prestigious. It’s a who’s who         Geelong Racing Club                     A visual spectacular, creating
GEELONG AFTER DARK                                                                                            of Australian culture with                                                    a fun and enchanting
                                                                                                              subjects often including              Geelong’s biggest day of
Central Geelong                                                                                                                                     thoroughbred racing and                 atmosphere igniting children’s
                                                                                                              celebrities, sporting heroes,                                                 imaginations with glittering
Be surprised exploring this                                                                                   authors and artists. You don’t        one of the region’s most
                                                                                                                                                    fashionable social events.              lights, LED parade floats and
spectacular night of arts, where                                                                              know who you might see.                                                       performers. Starts at 7.30pm.
humble streets, laneways and
                                                                                                                                                    country.racing.com/geelong/
venues in Central Geelong                                                                                     geelonggallery.org.au                                                         geelonghospitalappeal.org.au
                                                                                                                                                    race-days/bet365-geelong-cup
are transformed.
geelongafterdark.com.au                                                                                       OCTOBER 13

                                                                                                              WHITE NIGHT GEELONG
MAY 4-5                                                                                                       Central Geelong
MOUNTAIN TO MOUTH                                                                                             Inspired by the international
                                     JU N E 8 -11                                                             Nuit Blanche movement in
You Yangs to Barwon Heads
                                     NATIONAL CELTIC FESTIVAL                                                 Paris, White Night Geelong
An 80km journey of discovery                                                                                  is an experience not to miss.         NOVEMBER 3-4
over two days with 11 stages.        Portarlington                                                            White Night Geelong will be
Walk for one stage or all 11.        This festival attracts over 15,000 people to the region over the three   an adventure from dusk to
                                                                                                                                                    TOAST TO THE COAST
The choice is yours for this         day long weekend event each June. Explore a variety of venues to         dawn that transforms the city         Various wineries
‘extreme arts’ walk that keeps       experience a diverse arts experience that capture the Celtic culture     through its artists, landscapes       Unleash your senses and explore the wineries on the Bellarine, Surf
winning awards.                      in its many interpretations within the Australian setting.               and architecture.                     Coast and Moorabool Valley, tasting the best of our epicurean region.
mountaintomouth.com.au               nationalcelticfestival.com                                               whitenightmelbourne.com.au            winegeelong.com.au/toast-to-the-coast

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Geelong & The Bellarine - Business Events Geelong
WHAT’S ON
NOVEMBER 18

RUN GEELONG
Eastern Park, Geelong
Open to anyone. Run or walk
12km, 6km and 1km (kids)
distances with all proceeds
donated to help Geelong’s
kids. Includes post-race family     DECEMBER 1
entertainment.
                                    DENIS WALTER CAROLS BY THE BAY
runaustralia.com.au
                                    Eastern Beach, Geelong
                                    Grab a spot on the lawn and sing along to Christmas songs being
                                    performed by some of our region’s talented artists as well as some
                                    notable Australian performers.
                                    deniswalter.com.au

                                    DECEMBER 7-9                         DECEMBER 29

                                    MEREDITH MUSIC                       SHAKESPEARE IN
                                    FESTIVAL                             THE GEELONG
                                    Meredith Amphitheatre                BOTANIC GARDENS
                                    A feast of brilliant acts            Geelong Botanic Gardens
                                    during this 3-day, 2-night,          Enjoy Shakespeare in the great
                                    4-D cascading audio-visual           outdoors, with the stage set
NOVEMBER 23-25
                                    rollercoaster.                       amidst the stunning Geelong
QUEENSCLIFF                                                              Botanic Gardens.
MUSIC FESTIVAL                      2018.mmf.com.au
                                                                         eventsgeelong.com.au              THE BLUES TRAIN
Queenscliff
Held on the last weekend in         DECEMBER 24                                                            Established in 1994, Queenscliff’s Blues Train is one of Australia’s
November, QMF has been                                                                                     most spectacular entertainment and dining experiences. Combining
                                    CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT                                                  a meal, four of Australia’s best blues acts and a train ride through
running since 1997 and was
one of the original destination     Geelong                                                                the picturesque Bellarine Peninsula, The Blues Train is a one-night
                                                                                                           mini-festival and a progressive party you won’t forget!
music festivals. Artists from all   Get into the Christmas
over the world and just down        spirit and enjoy Geelong’s                                             Departs Queenscliff Railway Station
the road perform at venues          traditional Carols by                                                  1300 885 993
across the town.                    Candlelight on Christmas Eve.                                          info@baycityevents.com.au
                                                                                                           thebluestrain.com.au
qmf.net.au                          eventsgeelong.com.au

NOVEMBER 23-25                                                           DECEMBER 31
                                                                                                                WHAT ’S ON - GIGS, MARKETS,
GEELONG REVIVAL                                                          FIREWORKS DISPLAYS
MOTORING FESTIVAL                                                        (DUSK AND MIDNIGHT)                    SUNDAY SESSIONS & MORE
Geelong Waterfront                                                       Geelong Waterfront
Take pole position for the                                               Say goodbye to 2018 and hello
historic quarter-mile sprints,                                           to 2019 with two spectacular          For a full list of events, markets and
as 300 classic and exotic                                                fireworks displays on Corio           festivals in Geelong and The Bellarine:
cars and motorcycles sprint                                              Bay. The first at dusk for kids
down Ritchie Boulevard at                                                and then midnight as the new          visitgeelongbellarine.com.au
full throttle.                                                           year rolls in.
                                                                                                                  @visitgeelongbellarine
geelongrevival.com.au                                                    eventsgeelong.com.au                     @GeelongBella      #visitgeelongbellarine

16   VISITGEELONGBELLARINE.COM.AU                                                                                                                                                        17
Geelong & The Bellarine - Business Events Geelong
A Unique
                                                                                                                            Experience

                                                   Restaurant Associates at Werribee
                                                     Open Range Zoo pride ourselves
                                                  on providing unique wildlife inspired
                                                      venues, events and experiences
                                                 while offering restaurant quality food.
                                                      Take advantage of our beautiful
                                                          indoor and outdoor function
                                                 spaces, where we can plan a variety
                                                        of events including weddings,

                                                                                                Werribee & Point Cook
                                                   conferences, family days, birthday
                                                   parties and everything in between.
                                                      Our team of professional chefs
                                                    and event coordinators will create
                                                     an exciting and innovative event
                                                        that is tailored specifically for
                                                                  you and your guests.      Werribee, Point Cook and Surrounds, situated between Melbourne and Geelong
                                                                                            really have it all - stunning Werribee Park Mansion, the famous Werribee Open
                                                                                            Range Zoo, the Victoria State Rose Garden and the award-winning Shadowfax
                                                                                            Winery. Just around the corner we have market gardens, breathtaking wetlands,
                                                                                            the RAAF Museum and much more. If you’re heading off down the Great Ocean
Contact a member of our        Mention this ad when
                                                                                            Road, remember we’re on the way!
team and let us help you       booking your event to
plan your next unique event.   receive a bespoke upgrade.
werribeezooevents.com.au       p. 03 9285 9440                                                  wyndham.vic.gov.au            /experiencewyndham             /experiencewyndham       8734 6006
                                                                                                                                                                                  R
1

        ESCAPE TO
        T HE COAST                                                                                                             Barwon Heads
                                                                                                                                                  2

     HAPPINESS COMES IN SALTY WATER                 There’s loads of places to eat, drink and    TO THE NORTH                                         TO THE SOUTH
     Wherever you are in Geelong and The            soak up the sea air while watching the       The Northern side of The Bellarine is                Bellarine south side faces Bass Strait and
     Bellarine, you’re never far from saltwater     water sparkle.                               bound by Port Phillip Bay. There are lots            is home to some of Victoria’s favourite
     and a seabreeze. That’s the beauty of being    Playgrounds and a skate park have some       of boat ramps to launch a fishing trip,              and safest surf beaches. Ocean Grove has
     a peninsula - there’s ocean beaches, surf,     of the best views in the region – pushing    go waterskiing or jetskiing. The beaches             a wide sandy stretch and, with consistent
     dunes and open water on one side. On the       kids on a swing while breathing in sea air   are gentle and perfect for a paddle in               manageable waves, is a great place to
     other, sheltered bay beaches are perfect       – you’ll enjoy it as much as they do.        between epic sandcastle construction                 learn to surf or bring a boogie board.
     for paddling, boats and water sports. It’s a   Attractive and versatile, the Waterfront     and ice cream demolition.                            Nearby Point Lonsdale and Thirteenth
     beautiful coastline with water and urban       is a Geelong centrepiece that also shows                                                          Beach are popular with more experienced
     views, endless sandy beaches and some          off historic attractions such as the         QUEENSCLIFF                                          surfers or indulge in the rock pools and
     amazing experiences - above, below and         Armitage-Herschell portable steam                                                                 riverside beaches.
                                                                                                 In Queenscliff, the harbour is the starting
     beside the water.                              driven, hand-carved wooden Carousel,                                                              All these beaches are just as spectacular to
                                                                                                 point for loads of Port Phillip Bay
                                                    constructed in 1892, the bollard trail and   adventures. Boat tours, fishing in the bay           walk along with a friend (two or four legs),
     GEELONG WATERFRONT                             the Eastern Beach bathing pavilion and       or out in Bass Strait, swimming with wildlife,       especially at dawn or dusk when the sky is
     The Geelong Waterfront is the city’s           swimming promenade.                          eco-tours – all launch from Queenscliff              often lit with pastel colours. Beautiful.
     favourite spot to play. Locals tend to                                                      Harbour. At the nearby ferry terminal, take
     gravitate there whenever the sun comes                                                      a quick round trip with high tea or a local
     out, at weekends, during holidays and                                                       tasting platter. For a saltwater rush with
     when it lights up during spectacular                                                        slightly less adrenaline, try a restaurant, a
     events and festivals.                                                                       spot of business or shopping with a view
                                                                                                 of the water.                                        1. Bollards, Geelong Waterfront
                                                                                                                                                      2. Waiting for a set, Ocean Grove

20    VISITGEELONGBELLARINE.COM.AU                                                                                                                                                                   21
Barwon Heads                                                1

                                                   A lot of being a parent is about doing
                                                   things that MAKE YOUR CHILDREN HAPPY,

         PRECIOUS T IME                            because that’s what makes you happy.
                                                   Helping them discover the world, enjoying
                                                   their journey as they learn to engage with

         WIT H YOUR F AVOURIT E
                                                   the people and things around them.

                                                   1. The Carousel, Geelong Waterfront

         LITT LE PEOPLE
                                                   2. Rockpooling, Point Lonsdale

                                                                                                2

22   VISITGEELONGBELLARINE.COM.AU                                                               23
LET’S GO OUTSIDE                                  Barwon Heads River Beach. The park
     Playgrounds, grassy hills, beaches and skate      seamlessly merges with the sandy river
                                                       beach, a great spot to splash after working                                                    The best FAMILY TIME is when
     parks – there’s plenty of wide open spaces                                                                                                       everyone’s having fun.
     in gorgeous locations where kids can learn        out on the play equipment and not too
     to ride, hone their skills or just burn off       far to wander to find sustenance – from sit
     some of that endless energy.                      down meals to fish and chips.
                                                       The You Yangs. Take a hike, a picnic
                                                                                                                                                      1. Adventure Park
     FAMILY FAVOURITES                                 or BBQ at the You Yangs Regional Park,
                                                                                                                                                      2. Supatramp
                                                       Geelong’s Northern mountain range. The                                                         3. The You Yangs
     Western Beach, Geelong. A waterfront
                                                       views from Flinders Peak extend for miles
     playground alongside the best located
                                                       in every direction and there’s loads of
     skate park we’ve ever seen! Younger
                                                       wildlife. Nearby Serendip Sanctuary is also
     siblings and older kids can all agree on
                                                       fantastic for native animal spotting.
     this one.
     Queenscliff Foreshore. Big enough lawns           A BIG DAY OUT
     to kick the footy or strike up a cricket
     match, a great playground, and nearby             Make a really big family day out one to
     Harry’s Kiosk has great food, coffee, places      remember and head to one of these family
     to sit outside and an awesome selection of        activities:
     retro lawn games (totem tennis, anyone?).         Adventure Park. Mammoth theme park at
     Barwon River. Springing from the                  Wallington in the middle of The Bellarine –
                                                                                                                                                  2                                                   3
     Otways and running through Geelong,               it’s pretty much 20 minutes from wherever
     it’s long been a local favourite. There are       you’re staying. Brings out the competitive
     playgrounds aplenty as the river winds            spirit in every family from mini-golf to
     through suburban Geelong, the best one            archery to the Aqua Racer waterslide. Bring     THE IN CROWD                                     The Carousel is smack bang in the middle
     is at Barwon Valley in Belmont. Heaps of          bathers, arrive early to nab a good spot (or                                                     of the Geelong Waterfront – have a spin
                                                                                                       Sometimes it’s raining, or there’s just
     cool things to play on, plus BBQs, picnic         book a cabana) and have the best day ever!                                                       on the horses and grab an ice cream –
                                                                                                       something better inside. Here are some of
     benches, and gorgeous walking / riding /          They’ve just installed a new mega Tornado                                                        probably best in that order too.
                                                                                                       our top picks with the kids (roof included):
     scooting tracks in both directions. Fun!          waterslide for the thrill seeker at heart.
                                                                                                       Supatramp. So. Much. Bouncy. Fun! Warm           LEARNING DISGUISED AS FUN
                                                       Fairy Park. A castle on top of a rock on
                                                                                                       up on the trampolines before slamming in
                                                       top of a hill with animated fairy tales and a                                                    The Geelong Library and Heritage Centre,
                                                                                                       the dunk arena, playing dodgeball, catching
                                                       medieval adventure playground. Awesome.                                                          architecturally awarded, has made libraries
                                                   1                                                   air from the high platforms or taking
                                                       Bellarine Adventure Golf. Two big, clever       on one of more than 30 wall climbing             cool again. A boy was overheard declaring,
                                                       mini-golf courses will bring out your inner     challenges. Phew!                                “This is better than Timezone!” – praise
                                                       Happy Gilmore and decide on family                                                               doesn’t come much higher from an eight
                                                                                                       The Rock. Some incredible indoor rock            year old. Whether it’s for the books, the
                                                       bragging rights for the rest of the trip!
                                                                                                       climbing with walls up to 12 metres high.        magazines, the computer games or the
                                                                                                       It’s amazing to watch their confidence grow      quiet, it’s guaranteed to be fun/learning.
                                                                                                       as they reach new heights.
                                                                                                                                                        Nearby, the Geelong Gallery runs
                                                                                                       Geelong Library and Heritage Centre              dedicated children’s programs (including
                                                                                                       has a whole floor dedicated to kids! We          Eye Spy adventures – what might you spy
                                                                                                       love slouching in bean bags reading giant        in the collection?!).
                                                                                                       books with little ones while the older crew
                                                                                                       heads straight to the wall of big screen
                                                                                                       video games.

24    VISITGEELONGBELLARINE.COM.AU                                                                                                                                                                    25
FAMILY FUN

                                                 1

                                                 2

                                                     3

     Just around the corner, the National                SCHOOL’S OUT
     Wool Museum has a fun permanent                     When you’ve caught your breath at the
     collection and an engaging schedule of              end of term, there’s always heaps of
     special exhibitions.                                school holiday action across the region.
     Queenscliff has a long and interesting              From a dedicated program in Central
     history as a fashionable seaside town,              Geelong to special activities on Searoad
     fishing village and military base.                  Ferries. You’ll find more info ahead of
     All this history can be brought to life             each school holiday on our website:
     around town. Tours of Fort Queenscliff              visitgeelongbellarine.com.au
     include dressing up in military costume
     while you learn about the region’s                  ENJOY THE CLASSICS                            AN AFRICAN
     involvement in the wars. The Queenscliffe           Remember how the holidays were when           ADVENTURE AWAITS...
     Maritime Museum explores the history                you were a young ‘un? Show your kids          Get onboard a guided safari across the open range savannah
     of the town and the sea it’s surrounded             some of that honest-to-goodness fun.          spotting rhinos, giraffes and zebras! Come face to face with a
     by and a walking tour will enlighten you            Go for a long bike ride. Eat ice cream with   pride of lions, visit the gorillas, see cheeky monkeys at play and
     to the background of the historic, grand            all the colours and flavours. Teach them      discover a family of hippos in their wetland home.
     buildings and times gone by.                        how to fish. Let them bury you in the sand    Upgrade to the Off Road Safari and get even closer to our                           K Road, Werribee
                                                         at the beach.                                 magnificent African wildlife or enjoy an overnight experience                       30 minutes drive
                                                                                                       at the Zoo in our luxury safari camp.                                               from Melbourne CBD.
                                                         If you need some quality family time take
                                                         them away from home. Do things for fun
                                                         not need. Create memories for them.           KIDS ARE FREE
     1. Queenscliffe Maritime Museum                                                                   Children under 16 years of age receive free entry every weekend, during Victorian
     2. Fishing, Portarlington
                                                         And you.                                      Government school holidays and on Victorian public holidays.

     3. Geelong Gallery                                                                                Open daily 9am to 5pm 1300 966 784 | zoo.org.au

26    VISITGEELONGBELLARINE.COM.AU                                                                                                                                                                               27
FAMILY FUN                                                                                                                                                                         FAMILY FUN

                                    FAIRY PARK
                                                                                                             SEA ALL DOLPHIN SWIMS
                                    A storybook world with animated fairytale scenes in castles,
                                    cottages and caves including Snow White, Cinderella, Pinocchio           Swim with wild seals and dolphins or surf a never ending
                                    and many more. Visit Camelot – a medieval themed playground.             man-made wave with Sea All Dolphin Swims, Queenscliff.
                                    Spectacular settings, breathtaking scenery. A great day trip.            Our specialty – providing clients with experiences that last a life
                                    Discover the magic.                                                      time. Our expert friendly staff will have you feeling comfortable
                                                                                                             while challenging yourself throughout your chosen experience.
                                    2388 Ballan Rd, Anakie
                                                                                                             Your fare includes a thick warm wetsuit, equipment hire,
                                    Check website for open days
                                    03 5284 1262 | info@fairypark.com                                        comprehensive tuition, light refreshments and more.
                                    fairypark.com                                                            Our services include: tours swimming with wild seals and
                                                                                                             dolphins; sightseeing cruises; private charters; team building
                                    NEXT LEVEL SKIRMISH                                                      sessions; and surf experiences surfing Victoria’s only man-made
                                                                                                             wave – ‘Bay Wave’.
                                    Looking for something fun, exciting and action packed? Well the
                                    best laser skirmish experience is just around the corner in North        Experiences are suitable for all ages and all abilities. Our thick
                                    Geelong. An urban battlefield with the best and latest laser tag         wetsuits keep you afloat while you enjoy the best of Southern
                                    technology. This is one battle you don’t want to miss.                   Port Phillip Bay.

                                                                                                             Queenscliff Harbour
                                                                                                             Open 8am-5pm daily, mid October to May
                                    15 Douro St, North Geelong                                               03 5258 3889 | crew@dolphinswims.com.au
                                    0401 290 560 | geelong@nextlevelskirmish.com.au                          dolphinswims.com.au
                                    nextlevelskirmish.com.au

                                    THE GEELONG ARENA
                                    The Geelong Arena delivers great experiences as the region’s home
                                                                                                             BAY CITY SCUBA
                                    of basketball and the largest indoor sport and entertainment             Bay City Scuba, located on Victoria’s Bellarine Peninsula, is
                                    facility. The venue is highly regarded for hosting a mix of visiting     the gateway to some of Australia’s most stunning snorkelling,
                                    sport and touring entertainment with a busy calendar of events.          scuba and technical diving.
                                                                                                             Port Phillip Heads and the surrounding waters of Bass Strait
                                    110 Victoria St, North Geelong
                                    Open Mon-Fri 9am-10pm, Sat 9am-3pm                                       are home to the country’s most beautiful soft coral reefs and
                                    03 5278 3092                                                             steep wall dives, exceptional fish life and amazing recreational
                                    geelongarena@geelongcity.vic.gov.au                                      and technical wreck diving. The natural diversity of this unique
                                    geelongaustralia.com.au/geelongarena                                     ecosystem gives us the ideal location for diver training as you
                                                                                                             will get to experience an ever-changing marine environment.
                                    SEGWAY GEELONG                                                           The beautiful, calm waters of Port Phillip Bay is a haven for this
                                                                                                             abundant marine life. With a multitude of easily accessible pier,
                                    Segway Geelong offers adults the opportunity to be playful out in
                                                                                                             shore and boat snorkelling and diving locations available, it’s
                                    the fresh air. We offer 60 minute tours of the Geelong Waterfront
                                                                                                             easy to see why this area is so highly regarded and is one of
                                    for $50pp and 2 packages at Leura Park Estate Vineyard. At Leura
                                                                                                             Australia’s best kept secrets.
                                    Park we have a 90 minute Segway tour for $80pp – add in lunch
                                    and a glass of wine with the tour for $128. Expert training              Offering programs in snorkelling, freediving, scuba diving and
                                    provided. Ideal for individuals or groups.                               technical diving, we are the largest diver training provider on
                                                                                                             the Bellarine Peninsula.
                                    1400 Portarlington Rd, Curlewis
                                    Bookings essential at segway.com                                         With our training partner RAID, your safety, comfort and
                                    or call Tim 0433 675 680                                                 enjoyment is number one priority, we love the underwater
                                                                                                             world and our highly trained experienced staff would love to
                                                                                                             share it with you.
                                    THE BELLARINE RAILWAY
                                    A volunteer run organisation established in 1978, offering scenic
                                    train rides, private carriage hire, train driver experiences and group
                                    charters between Queenscliff and Drysdale. Family specials and
                                    events are also held including Easter Bunny Specials, Halloween
                                    Trains, Santa Trains, and ‘Day Out With Thomas’ weekends.                20 Boundary Rd, East Geelong
                                                                                                             03 5248 1488 | info@baycityscuba.com
                                    Queenscliff Station: 20 Symonds St, Queenscliff                          baycityscuba.com
                                    Drysdale Station: 2-10 Station St, Drysdale                              Facebook: Bay City Scuba
                                    03 5258 2069 | info@bellarinerailway.com.au                              Instagram: baycityscuba
                                    bellarinerailway.com.au

28   VISITGEELONGBELLARINE.COM.AU                                                                                                                                                          29
ADVENTURE
         T IME
                                                                                                        2                                         3

     However adventure is defined in your             ADRENALINE RUSH OR A RUSH
     mind, you’ll find something to take              TO DISCOVER SOMETHING NEW
     your breath away in Geelong and                  Barwon Heads Airport is home to Skydive
     The Bellarine.                                                                                         Life is either a DARING ADVENTURE
                                                      Australia. They’ll drop you off at the beach…         or nothing at all.
     The fast paced adrenaline junkies can            from 14,000 feet. Also based at Barwon
     skydive, take an aerobatic flight in an old      Heads Airport, Adventure Flight Co can
     warplane, abseil and rock climb or surf          take you on an aerobatic tour above The
                                                                                                            1. WSUP - stand up paddle boarding
     the big breaks. Adventurers who prefer           Bellarine or on a scenic trip in an age-old           2. Skydiving over the region
     their fun a little less risky can meet marine    biplane. Great Ocean Air have luxurious               3. Sea All Dolphin Swims
     life on a boat tour, swim with seals and         planes taking panoramic flights over                  4. Surfing, Ocean Grove
     dolphins, take on a mountain bike course,        the coastline.                                        5. Mountain biking in the You Yangs
                                                                                                            6. Adventure Flight Co
     a helicopter ride over the city or a scenic      In Queenscliff, the rush-of-blood starts
     flight over coastlines, lighthouses and piers.   at Queenscliff Harbour with several
                                                      fishing charters, sea-borne eco-tours, and                                                  5
                                                      swimming with dolphins and seal tours
                                                      depart from here.
                                                      Surf schools will teach young and young-
                                                      at-heart how to catch a break at many of
                                                 1
                                                      the surf beaches along the southern side
                                                      of The Bellarine. For an on-water challenge
                                                      on a calmer sea, stand up paddle board
                                                      companies will teach the fine art of
                                                      gliding on the sea at Ocean Grove and             4
                                                      Barwon Heads.
                                                      For a land-based adrenaline rush, head to
                                                                                                                                                  6
                                                      the You Yangs Regional Park and Werribee
                                                      Gorge – there’s abseiling on huge granite
                                                      faces, rock climbing, heaps of hiking tracks
                                                      for all ages (and fitness levels!) plus some of
                                                      Victoria’s favourite mountain bike tracks.
                                                      Exhausted, much! Finish your day with
                                                      soothing yoga by the river side or fresh sea
                                                      air. Mission accomplished.

30    VISITGEELONGBELLARINE.COM.AU                                                                                                                31
1

                                                     1

                                                     2                                                                                             GOLF CLUB
                                                                                                                                                   THE BELLARINE

                                                         3

                                                                                                                  T�e fc.sfesf �rowin� �oLf dub in Aus-fro.Lio.
                                                                                                                               Come and see why...
     DRIVING AMBITION                                        To add some extra fun to your round at
     The Bellarine is the perfect spot for a full-           Curlewis Golf Club, grab a GolfBoard (part
     blown golf getaway or a fun coastal escape              surfboard, part hover board, all fun!) or try
                                                             their two storey state-of-the-art driving
     that includes playing a round.
                                                             range complete with simulators, pro tuition     Just one hour                            Naturally undulating fairways
                                                                                                                                                      Large contoured greens
     There are five courses ranked within the                and practice greens. Not enough to fill up      from Melbourne -
     top 100 Public Access Courses in Australia                                                                                                       Well bunkered, links style layout - watered year round
     by The Golf Course Guide, all within
                                                             your day, Curlewis also has Footgolf.           15 minutes from                          Hip Club House facility
     around 20 minutes drive of each other:                  What’s the best way to complement               Geelong. Green Fee                       State-of-the-art Driving Range complex
     • Barwon Heads Golf Club
                                                             the incredible golf on offer on the The
                                                             Bellarine? With the bounty of deliciousness
                                                                                                             Players and New                          Fabulous Mini Golf course
                                                                                                             Members welcome.                         Iconic, much-loved course of The Bellarine
     •	13th Beach Golf Links                                available in clubhouses and nearby.
                                                                                                                                                      Dinner Friday & Saturday nights
        - Beach Course and Creek Course                      The 19th hole is as mouth-watering as
                                                             the golf itself.
     • Curlewis Golf Club
                                                             Amazing golf in glorious locations?
     • Portarlington Golf Club
                                                             The Bellarine has the whole in one.

                                                             1. Curlewis Golf Club
                                                             2. Barwon Heads Golf Club
                                                             3. 13th Beach Golf Links
                                                                                                                         r
                                                                                                                    OPE� DAY� 1345 Portarlington Rd, Curlewis,         Bellarine VIC P 5251 1111
32    VISITGEELONGBELLARINE.COM.AU                                                                                   E hello@curlewisgolf.com.au curlewisgolf.com.au    11 "# D /Curlewis Golf Club
ADVENTURE TIME

                                    13TH BEACH GOLF LINKS
                                    Set on the stunning Bellarine Peninsula, 13th Beach Golf Links

                                                                                                          F IND HIDDEN
                                    is famously known for its two award-winning courses, with first
                                    class conditioning all year round. With a modern clubhouse
                                    open for breakfast on the weekends and lunch 7 days, plus great

                                                                                                          COOL
                                    facilities, whether you’re a golfer, or simply want to admire the
                                    views, visiting 13th Beach is a must.
                                    The first of the two courses, The Beach Course was opened
                                    in December 2001 and designed by Tony Cashmore. The
                                    challenging and natural links style course has received many
                                    high accolades, including recently voted 28th best course in
                                    Australia by Australian Golf Digest magazine 2016 and 9th best
                                    public accessible course in Australia (Golf Course Guide, 2017).
                                    The Creek Course designed by Cashmore in conjunction with six
                                    time major championship winner Sir Nick Faldo, is a wonderful
                                    complement to The Beach Course. Rated in 2016 as the 74th
                                    best course in Australia by Australian Golf Digest and 21st best
                                    public accessible course by the Golf Course Guide 2017. The
                                    Creek Course is regularly compared to some of Melbourne’s best
                                    Sandbelt courses.
                                    Golf Australia rates both our courses as outstanding. So will you.
                                    Enter “GOLF18” promo code when making an online booking to
                                    save 10%.

                                    1732 Barwon Heads Rd, Barwon Heads
                                    Clubhouse open from 7am, 7 days a week
                                    03 5254 2922 | info@13thbeachgolf.com                  LOGO
                                    13thbeachgolf.com

                                    NEVERMIND ADVENTURE
                                    Discover the secrets of The Great Ocean Road by classic
                                    motorcycle (without the classic head aches!)
                                                                                                                                                        Urban Geelong
                                    Join world famous adventure motorcycle tour company,
                                    Nevermind Adventure, for a day out exploring the twists and
                                    turns of the Great Ocean Road on a Royal Enfield Motorcycle.
                                    The crew at Nevermind Adventure will have you grinning ear to
                                    ear as you uncover some of the worlds most amazing landscapes
                                    and scenery as you ride through untarnished ancient rainforests,                1
                                    stunning beaches and winding coastal roads to match those                            There’s more to Geelong than a pretty
                                    anywhere in the world.
                                                                                                                         waterfront and an awesome footy team.
                                    Take a beach side lunch and drink coffee at quaint country
                                                                                                                         We’ll help you find some of the COOLEST
                                    villages whilst the sunlight reflects from the glistening chrome on
                                    your 500cc Royal Enfield Classic. All bikes are new models with                      STRIPS, burbs and less obvious spots.
                                    disc brakes, electric start and learner approved!!
                                    224 Pakington St, Geelong West
                                    Mon-Fri 9am-5pm, Sat 9am-4pm
                                    1300 520 901
                                    admin@nevermindadventure.com
                                    nevermindadventure.com                                                               1. Central Geelong

34   VISITGEELONGBELLARINE.COM.AU                                                                                                                                       35
LOCAL GEMS
                                                                                                                     Geelong Library and Heritage Centre
                                                                                                                                                                   MORE THAN JUST BOOKS:
                                                                                                                                                                   The Geelong Library and Heritage
                                                                                                                                                                   Centre houses a future-ready sphere of
                                                                                                                                                                   reading, learning and fun that will change
                                                                                                                                                                   the way you think about libraries.

                                                                                                                                                                   EXHIBITIONS AND ART: As well as their
                                                                                                                                                                   permanent exhibitions, galleries and
                                                                                                                                                                   museums have a schedule of special
                                                                                                                                                                   displays all year.

                                                                                                                                                                   THEATRE, MUSIC AND DRAMA: Geelong
                                                                                                                                                                   Performing Arts Centre has a full schedule
                                                                                                                                                                   of performances while undergoing a
                                                                                                                                                                   $35 million upgrade. Concerts and festivals
                                                                                                                                                                   from The Blues Train to Shakespeare will
                                                                                                                                                                   entertain across the region.

                                                                                                                                                                   SHOP ON PAKO: Pakington Street is a
                                                                                                                                                                   precinct with boutique and specialty shops,
                                                                                                                                                                   excellent cafés and a stylish atmosphere.

     SOMETIMES THE BEST PLACES                       Just a little way down the street and broken     Just a couple of blocks from the CBD,                         There’s nothing better than meandering
     AREN’T OBVIOUS                                  up with street art installations, Little Malop   Pakington Street runs from Geelong West                       sparse country roads and small village
     In Geelong, the Little Malop Street precinct    Street shifts focus from eyes and ears           through Newtown to the Barwon River.                          high streets and stumbling across that
     is culture central with an edge. The            to bellies, with a bunch of great places         Known to locals as Pako, it’s traditional                     magical gem. Drive country roads past
     Geelong Library and Heritage Centre             to eat and drink within a few hundred            street boutique shopping mixed with heaps                     canola fields and vast paddocks and
     is the most striking piece of architecture in   metres. There’s casual southern style grub,      of places to eat and drink (indoors or out).                  you’ll find converted petrol stations
     town: it’s somewhere between a futuristic       international flavours up and down the           The River End has emerged as a creative                       turned flavoursome, homely cafés, ever
     domed mirror maze and the Darth Vader’s         street such as Japanese, Malaysian,              industry hub, including some clever crafty                    friendly goats producing exquisite cheese,
     actual Death Star. It’s just as impressive      Italian, wicked donuts and a whole café          shops and the incredible Boom Gallery.                        whiskeries producing the region’s finest,
     inside, where tech meets tradition in a         dedicated to cake.                               The Geelong West end not only includes                        a train playing Blues and a train serving
     library that has evolved beyond books.          Nearby, Geelong Cellar Door has brought          sought after shopping but exceptional dining                  local food, prolific provedores and farm
                                                     the best of the region’s vineyards to town,      at Tulip, Zigfrids and King of the Castle.                    fresh foods.
     Next door, the Geelong Gallery has an
     impressive collection and a grand schedule      showcasing legends alongside local up-
     of temporary exhibitions, including the         and-comers in their wine bar. This cool,         BARWON BOOKSELLERS
     renowned Archibald Prize in 2018. While         relaxed venue only serves up the best of
                                                                                                      For book lovers and book collectors, a treasure trove in
     across the road the Geelong Performing          Geelong and Bellarine regional wines,            the heart of Geelong. The largest range of quality
     Arts Centre showcases a year round diary        beers and ciders.                                secondhand books in regional Victoria. Buying and selling,
                                                                                                      in store and online.
     of world-class theatre, music and drama for
     the region.                                                                                      2 James St, Geelong
                                                                                                      Open Mon-Sat 10am-5pm
                                                                                                      03 5221 8388
                                                                                                      mail@barwonbooksellers.com.au
                                                                                                      barwonbooksellers.com.au

36    VISITGEELONGBELLARINE.COM.AU                                                                                                                                                                               37
SHOPPING

 Waurn Ponds

SHOPPING
CENTRE
 Open 7 days

                                                                   CENTRAL
                                                                   GEELONG
                                                                    .com.au

OVER 140                  ·
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                          ·   8 SCREEN READING CINEMA COMPLEX

1 LEVEL
                          ·   COLES SUPERSTORE & KMART
                          ·   WOOLWORTHS & TARGET
                          ·   REBEL & FIRST CHOICE LIQUOR
                          ·   EASY ACCESS FROM GEELONG RING ROAD

Phone 03 5244 2580
www.waurnpondssc.com.au       WaurnPondsSC

                                                                              39
SHOPPING

                                                                                                        GO OUT TO EAT
                                                                                                        OR EAT OUTSIDE

                                    THE HAPPY SHOE SHOP / MABEL & ME
                                    Down along the river’s edge you can come and find a unique
                                    shopping experience.
                                    The Happy Shoe shop offers a wide range of comfort footwear,
                                    socks, accessories and giftware. The helpful and happy staff will
                                    take the time to fit you right!
                                    The Happy Shoe Shop is also home to Mabel & Me, On The
                                    Road, offering unique regionally inspired gifts, cushions, prints            1
                                    and more.
                                    Come say hello Monday to Friday from 10am to 5pm and                             With a HUGE RANGE of places to eat, both
                                    Saturdays 10am to 3pm.                                                           in the city and in the surrounding suburbs,
                                                                                                                     precincts and regions, Geelong is a region
                                                                                                                     full of flavour.

                                    19c Rutland St, Newtown
                                    Open Mon-Fri 10am-5pm, Sat 10am-3pm
                                    0413 915 414
                                    thehappyshoeshop.com.au
                                    facebook.com/thehappyshoeshop                                                    1. Sonny Café, Inverleigh

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OUR GEELONG F AVOURIT ES

                                                                                                                                                     PASTA: Lipari Espresso Bar
                                                                                                                                                     ASIAN: Wah Wah Gee on The Pier
                                                                                                                                                     SPECIAL EVENTS: Black Salt Restaurant
                                                                                                                                                     CASUAL: Zigfrids

                                                                                                                                                 2   BREAKFAST: King of the Castle
                                                                                                                                                     HEALTHY LUNCH: Little Green Corner
                                                                                                                                                     CITY LUNCH: Café Go, Son of an Elk or
                                                                                                                                                 3
                                                                                                                                                     Grounds of Society
                                                                                                                                                     NEW: Alma
                                                                                                                                                     COOL DISCOVERY:
                                                                                                                                                     Provenance Wines at the
                                                                                                                                                     Old Paper Mills
                                                                                                                                                     HATTED RESTAURANT:
                                                                                                                                                     Igni and Tulip
     Basils Farm

                                                                                                                                                                                                   4
     A REGION FULL OF FLAVOUR                        Geelong is enjoying a delicious renaissance     Elsewhere in Geelong, deliciousness is
     Geelong has a huge range of places to eat,      as a place to eat. Some wonderful and           served at places near the water taking
     both in the city and in the surrounding         unique restaurants have been brought            advantage of glorious bay views. Other
     suburbs, precincts and regions. Formal          to life in the city by young and energetic      excellent options are the inner-city
     restaurants awarded hats by The Age Good        chefs. The pinnacle is Igni by local            laneways or along Pakington Street.
     Food Guide, quick and cheerful cafés with       food legend Aaron Turner. His amazing           Out of the city, eating out has a totally
     better-than-average coffee, and loads of        combinations have been winning the              different feel – earthier and fresh,
     venues that take advantage of our position      hearts and mouths of the food crowd from        often featuring ingredients grown
     on the coast to offer views, al fresco and an   across Victoria, Australia and the world        on site or nearby. Some of the best
     amazing range of local produce.                 since Igni opened in 2016. Five or eight        places to eat around The Bellarine also
                                                     courses, with or without paired wine.           produce some of our finest wine and
                                                     An incredible dining experience where the       offer some of our best views.
                                                1    open grill and first-class service is brought   It’s an intoxicating combination in             Other nearby wineries serve their food
                                                     to life. Igni was named Regional Restaurant     more ways than one and you’ll find it           with a side of art, culture and museum in a
                                                     of the Year by Gourmet Traveller for the        at Jack Rabbit Vineyard, neighbouring           multi-sensory feast – Oakdene Vineyards,
                                                     second year in a row and is rated two hats      Terindah Estate and Basils Farm.                McGlashan Estate and Banks Road Vineyard.
                                                     in The Age Good Food Guide.
                                                     Other regional favourites include hatted
                                                     restaurant Tulip, a mention in The Age
                                                                                                     1. Lonsdale Tomato Farm
                                                     Good Food Guide to Merne @ Lighthouse           2. Barwon Heads
                                                     and Bistrot Plume, and new comer Alma.          3. Central Geelong
                                                                                                     4. Terindah Estate

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DINING OUT
                                                  1

                                                      2
                                                  3

     TRY SOMETHING DIFF ERENT

     ON THE BELLARINE

     Looking for something unique or a special            •	A taste of locally brewed beers at
     occasion? Try these:                                    Queenscliff Brewhouse or local
     •	Breakfast, lunch or dinner at the                    offerings at Tastes of the Region
        revitalised 360Q at Queenscliff Harbour           •	Sit on the huge lawn with a paddle of all
     •	No 46 in the Dining Room or Rooftop                  the ciders and a selection of very cool
        Bar at the Vue Grand in Queenscliff                  food at Flying Brick Cider House

     •	Three types of wonderful at Oakdene:              •	Dinner, drinks and dancing on board
        Upside-down house cellar door, casual                The Blues Train from Queenscliff
        sophistication at Mr Grubb or local               •	High tea or sunset cruises on board
        flavours at Marty @ Oakdene                          Searoad Ferries
     •	Eating over the water at At The Heads             •	A six course degustation of local food
        in Barwon Heads                                      and wine on The Q Train from Drysdale
                                                          •	Discover The Bellarine’s own whiskey at
                                                             The Whiskery
                                                          •	Devulge in first-class service and
     1. Tasting paddles, Queenscliff Brewhouse               fine food at award-winning Merne
     2. Outdoor dining, Mr Grubb @ Oakdene                   @ Lighthouse.
     3. High tea on board Searoad Ferries

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DINING OUT                                                                                                                 DINING OUT

        Vineyard
     Eclectic Gardens

             Cellar Door
            Guided Tastings

              Accommodation
                   Romantic Stays

             Marty @ Oakdene
          Contemporary Dining                                           geelong brewery & canteen
                                                                             221 swanston st
 Mr Grubb @ Oakdene
            Casual Dining

     Open                    Phone: 5255 1255
     7 Days             255 Grubb Rd Wallington

                  www.oakdene.com.au

                                                   LCR0043-GBVG-HPH-0110 91x124 2017VisitorGuide c1v4.indd           1   21/09/2016 3:50 PM
                                                  THE   SPHINX HOTEL
                                                  The Sphinx is a taste of Egypt situated in the heart of Geelong.
                                                  With ample free on-site parking, The Sphinx Hotel is the perfect
                                                  place to socialise with friends, enjoy a mouth-watering meal,
                                                  or catch a live band or comedy show. Pharaohs Bistro offers an
                                                  à la carte menu for lunch and dinner 7 days a week, as well as
                                                  daily specials and kids meals. We even have a children’s indoor
                                                  playground to keep the kids entertained!
                                                  Bet on the races or watch your favourite sporting event in the
                                                  Sportsbar/TAB.
                                                  The Sphinx also has comfortable accommodation comprising
                                                  of 16 motel units including two spa suites all with their own
                                                  bathroom facilities.

                                                  2 Thompson Rd, North Geelong
                                                  Open 8.30am-4.30am daily
                                                  03 5278 2911 | info@sphinxhotel.com.au
                                                  sphinxhotel.com.au

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DINING OUT                                                                                                                                                                          DINING OUT

                                                                                                              RAVENS CREEK FARM
                                    TERINDAH ESTATE
                                                                                                              On-farm café and provedore with pick-your-own berries and true
                                    The term Terindah (Indonesian for ‘most beautiful’) is fitting for        paddock-to-plate dining. Specialty coffee, seasonal food, chemical
                                    this boutique Geelong venue. Established in 2000 by owners                free meat and produce sales. Local, organic and artisan wares.
                                    Peter and Cate Slattery, Terindah Estate’s 100-acre property is a         Open all year.
                                    must-see destination for anyone interested in visiting a vineyard
                                    with award-winning wines, delicious food, uninterrupted views
                                    across Port Phillip Bay and stunning architectural event spaces.          742 Hendy Main Rd, Moriac
                                                                                                              Open 8am-4pm Thur-Sun, open 7 days during Dec & Jan
                                    The estate recently launched a boutique wine bar, The Deck,               0455 328 243 | ravenscreekfarm@gmail.com
                                    a thoughtfully designed outdoor space that wraps around the               ravenscreekfarm.com.au
                                    cellar and boasts front row seats to the open lawns and vines.
                                    Those looking for a more formal dining experience can venture             THE DRIFTWOOD CAFÉ
                                    downstairs to The Shed, where high quality, seasonal and local
                                    produce are used to create an á la carte menu designed to                 The Driftwood Café has established itself as the place to be for
                                    complement the variety of estate wines.                                   breakfast, lunch or dinner, nestled in the heart of Ocean Grove’s
                                                                                                              main street. With a philosophy of using fresh, local, free range,
                                                                                                              seasonal and organic produce, where possible, The Driftwood
                                    90 McAdams Ln, Bellarine                                                  prides itself on quality, with dedicated local fruit and vegetable
                                    Open for lunch 7 days, breakfast Sat-Sun                                  growers bringing in boxes of fresh produce each week.
                                    & dinner Sat
                                    03 5251 5536 | hello@terindahestate.com                                   64d The Terrace, Ocean Grove
                                    terindahestate.com                                                        Sun-Thur 7am-4.30pm, Fri & Sat 7am-9pm
                                                                                                              03 5255 1832 | thedriftwoodcafe.com.au

                                    PROVENANCE WINES                                                          QUEENSCLIFF BREWHOUSE
                                    Located at the Fyansford Paper Mill on the banks of the Barwon            Queenscliff Brewhouse is home to over 200 craft beers and ciders
                                    River, Provenance Wines offers a unique wine and food experience.         and with an on-site microbrewery, whisky bar, regional produce
                                    World-class regional wines and food are served in our maturation          tasting room, beer garden and live music, there is something for
                                    cellar, originally built for the 100-foot-long paper machine. See our     everyone. The Brewhouse offers breakfast, lunch, dinner and all
                                    working (five red star) winery in operation and explore the grounds.      day tasting plates with the focus on local and seasonal produce.
                                    Enjoy a food platter matched to wines of outstanding provenance.
                                                                                                              2 Gellibrand St, Queenscliff
                                    100 Lower Paper Mill Rd, Fyansford                                        Open Mon-Sat 7am–1am, Sun 7am–11pm
                                    03 5222 3422 | info@provenancewines.com.au                                03 5258 1717 | info@queenscliffbrewhouse.com.au
                                    provenancewines.com.au                                                    queenscliffbrewhouse.com.au

                                    WHITE RABBIT BREWERY                                                      RORO CAFÉ ON THE BEACH
                                    White Rabbit Brewery was born to be different. Our brewery is             Located right on the beach in Queenscliff, offering serious coffee,
                                    built on the spirit of creativity and collaboration. Explore our Barrel   a menu of local and regional produce and a daily specials board.
                                    Hall, peek inside our Open Fermenters, taste something new                Large windows offer great views across the bay. Best breakfast.
                                    and exciting and immerse yourself in a place where fermentation           Outdoor seating available.
                                    comes with more than a bit of imagination.
                                    221 Swanston St, South Geelong                                            1 Wharf St East (at ferry terminal), Queenscliff
                                    Open Sun-Thurs 11am-5pm, Fri-Sat 11am-9pm                                 Open daily from 7am-6pm
                                    03 5202 4050 | barrelhall@whiterabbitbeer.com.au                          03 5257 4500 | travel@searoad.com.au
                                    whiterabbitbeer.com.au                                                    searoad.com.au/roro

                                    LETHBRIDGE WINES                                                          PIKNIK
                                    What the critics say… “An outstanding 5 star winery” James Halliday       PIKNIK is a unique licenced café restaurant in the heart of the
                                    2017. Nominated Australian Winemaker of The Year. “Best exhibitor         Bellarine Taste Trail that embraces local and seasonal produce,
                                    of show”, Geelong Wine Show – a record six years in a row. Come           meaning our menu is fresh and constantly changing. Dinner is
                                    visit us and taste for yourself.                                          served every Saturday. Don’t forget to take one of our house made
                                                                                                              preserves home!
                                    74 Burrows Rd, Lethbridge                                                 1195 Queenscliff Rd, Swan Bay
                                    Open 11am-5pm, 7 days | 03 5281 7279                                      Open Wed-Sun 7am-3.30pm, book for dinner Sat
                                    maree@lethbridgewines.com                                                 Open 7 days in Jan | 03 5258 5155
                                    lethbridgewines.com                                                       info@piknik.com.au | piknik.com.au

48   VISITGEELONGBELLARINE.COM.AU                                                                                                                                                           49
Boom Gallery

         LEARNING
         DISGUISED AS F UN
         GEELONG AND THE BELLARINE has been
         combining fun with learning for a long time
         through hands-on experiences, galleries,
         insights from experts, cultural centres, guided
         tours, engaging talks and much more.

50   VISITGEELONGBELLARINE.COM.AU                                         51
LEARNING DISGUISED AS FUN
                                               1
                                                    Grown ups should check out Salt
                                                    Contemporary Gallery in Queenscliff – get
                                                    your hands on a cocktail upstairs from the
                                                    artist behind the bar in the Salt Lounge.
                                                    Learning doesn’t have to be scholarly.
                                                    There are exciting lessons that might strike
                                                    up a new hobby or skill set – surfing,
                                                    paddleboarding, horse riding, rock
                                                    climbing, abseiling or fishing. We have
                                                    some of the best golf courses in Australia –
                                                    a lesson from a pro to work on your game?
                                                    Insight from experts is a great way to
                                                    learn as well. Instead of driving or finding
                                                    your own way, take a guided tour of the
                                                    region with More Than a Tour or RedGum
                                                    Roadtrips for unique insights. Narana
                                                    Aboriginal Cultural Centre celebrates
                                                    local indigenous customs, art, food and
                                                    culture. Throw a boomerang or taste the                           Facebook “f ” Logo   CMYK / .ai   Facebook “f ” Logo   CMYK / .ai

                                                    indigenous inspired café menu.
     DISCOVER MORE THAN A CLASSROOM                 Yes we love to talk about food and wine
     History is revisited in many ways, with        but so do these guys: For the Love of
     attractions exploring significant aspects      Grape, Bellarine Winery Tours, Mustang
     of the region’s story – the National Wool      & Co., Geelong Winery Tours, I Came,
     Museum, Maritime Museums in Geelong            I Saw, I Drank and Wine Tours by BLOCK78.
     and Queenscliff, the Old Geelong Gaol
     and military history at Fort Queenscliff.      WILD DISCOVERIES
     Each tells an important part of the history    •	Explore the open savannahs of
     of Geelong and The Bellarine in their own         Werribee Open Range Zoo or even
     unique and engaging ways – from ghost             stay overnight on a Slumber Safari
     tours to dress-ups.
                                                    •	See Australian native animals at
     Galleries from central Geelong to the             Serendip Sanctuary at the foot of
     suburbs and Queenscliff are showcasing            the You Yangs
     some of Australia’s brightest and most
     talented artists. Take the time to check out   •	Get up close with wild marine life – birds,
     exhibitions, ask questions of guides and          seals and dolphins - on a South Bay Eco
     you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of       Adventure from Queenscliff Harbour
     what’s on show.                                •	Get even closer – in the water swimming
     Boom Gallery in Newtown and Queenscliff           alongside them – with Sea All Dolphin
     Gallery and Workshop also offer hands-on          Swims from Queenscliff Harbour or dive
     activities in on-site learning centres.           Port Phillip Heads and surrounds with
                                                       Bay City Scuba
                                                    •	Support the conservation and rescue
                                                       work of Jirrahlinga in Barwon Heads.
     1. Serendip Sanctuary, Parks Victoria

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