This is the date and time that this news article was published Warrnambool residents will have free entry to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village under a new program designed to foster stronger engagement with the local community “Through the Flagstaff Hill Ambassador Program we’ll strengthen the connection between Flagstaff Hill and local residents and build a sense of ownership and pride,” Warrnambool Mayor Cr Ben Blain said “The ambassador program encourages local people to be advocates for Flagstaff Hill “Our ambassadors can visit any time and if they have friends or relatives who have paid for tickets to Flaggy the ambassadors can accompany them for free “We know the “friends and relatives” category in our visitor economy accounts for a third of Warrnambool’s domestic visitors so the ambassador program creates a great opportunity to enjoy a shared experience “A visit to Flagstaff Hill remains highly regarded by visitors and we consistently see very positive reviews on platforms including Trip Advisor and Google Reviews “The ambassador program means Flagstaff Hill can be a great meeting place for social clubs The entry is free for locals but if people would like to make use of the tearooms or have other catering requirements give the Flagstaff Hill team a call and they’ll help with any necessary arrangements “To get involved, go to flagstaffhill.com where we have the terms and conditions along with an easy online process to register to become an ambassador.” The program will use post codes to identify locals and the application requires a driver’s licence or other suitable identification accompanied by a utility bill Local post codes included are: Warrnambool All Content Copyright © Warrnambool City Council 2025. Administrator Login Flagstaff Hill has been available as a potential event location since March 2014 when the location was captured as part of the Foreshore Generic Event Approval along with other generic site approvals for 16 locations including Stuart Park have been set up as a way to support and encourage events concerts and other opportunities for key locations across the Wollongong Local Government Area The generic event approvals are part of Council’s commitment to facilitate opportunities for our residents to have easy access to events and activations that allow for social engagement and supporting a range of local businesses including the Our Wollongong Our Future Community Strategic Plan Creative Wollongong 2024-2033 and the Major Events Strategy 2021-2026 These pre-approved sites were acknowledged by the Committee for Sydney in their 2023 report as a positive way to support events and are in line with the NSW Government’s Vibrancy Reforms Our Wollongong Our Future | City of Wollongong Creative-Wollongong-2024-2033.pdf Wollongong-Major-Events-Strategy-2021-2026.pdf Committee-for-Sydney-Everyday-Culture-2023.pdf Vibrancy Reforms | NSW Government While Flagstaff Hill has been used for a range of events over the past 10 years this is the first time an event of this type has been proposed to be held at this location Yours and Owls lodged an event application for Flagstaff Hill on Friday 6 December 2024 This application has not yet been assessed or approved It is at the applicant’s own risk if they choose to promote or sell tickets for an event on Council land without an event approval In some circumstances Council will issue an ‘in-principle’ approval prior to final issuing of a licence where it is confident all the conditions can be met.  Council has not issued in principle approval for this event at this point in time Before the application was lodged with Council representatives of Yours and Owls had met with Council staff to discuss their proposal which is common practice for larger-scale events like this provides an opportunity for Council to provide advice about their application we advised the applicant they would need to consider a range of factors including (but not limited to); sound management of heritage items within the event footprint management of environmental (weather) factors management of impacted businesses and other key stakeholders As it moves through its assessment and approval process we will ensure the applicant can demonstrate how they will comply with the terms and conditions laid out in the Foreshore Generic Event Approval as well as any additional event-specific conditions we see fit to include As the application has only recently been lodged with Council it’s too early to speculate what event-specific conditions Council may seek to include and what fees would be charged of the organisers Yours and Owls would be required to provide a bond from which Council would deduct funds should there be any site remediation needed after the event Visit our News page to find out what's happening in your community, or sign up for e-news. We show our respect and acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Dharawal Country, Elders past and present, and extend that respect to other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People. You can also use the number above for after hours Council-related emergencies Email council@wollongong.nsw.gov.au Webchat We show our respect and acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Dharawal Country and extend that respect to other Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People 2025 marks the 110th anniversary of the day when Australian and New Zealand soldiers landed on Gallipoli in 1915 during World War I There are a range of places across Onkaparinga where you can commemorate the anniversary on ANZAC Day on Friday 25 April “I encourage you to join me in recognising the more than 1.5 million people who have served Australia in conflicts wars and peacekeeping operations; and remember the more than 103,000 Australians who sacrificed their lives in our country’s name,” says City of Onkaparinga Mayor Moira Were “As ongoing supporters of many of these free events I’m always moved by this annual coming together of the community and the important advocacy and support work that’s undertaken for veterans and their families.” Dawn services will be held across Onkaparinga There’ll also be services later in the morning at places including: There are also a couple of events happening in the day(s) before ANZAC Day: Head to onkaparingacity.com or the council’s Facebook page for more details on these events and more, and please let us know if we’ve missed any Onkaparinga-based events by emailing media@onkaparinga.sa.gov.au Sign up for our monthly email newsletter to get stories about local issues Subscribe now If you have been watching the new TGL Golf product recently, you may have noticed the rotating and modifiable putting green that players like Tiger Woods, Rickie Fowler and Min Woo Lee have been strutting their stuff on. This green is designed and built by artificial turf company SynLawn, who have also just installed its first green at an Australian facility, with Flagstaff Hill Golf Club just south of Adelaide the beneficiary. Completed late last year at Flagstaff Hill, the new practice green by SynLawn was designed and built by Himalayas Golf, is as realistic as a normal green, with a fraction of the upkeep and maintenance, a plus when inviting in large amounts of new golfers and juniors. "That was one of the big selling points," Flagstaff General Manager Chris Coulter said. "There's a lot of benefit to it." Flagstaff Hill share the property with Living Choice Retirement Villages, and Coulter says the new green was made all the more appealing considering the increased traffic. "We've actually got the new green right between three of our big apartment buildings here," said Coulter. "It will be flood lit and there'll be a barbecue area there. We're actually trying to turn this artificial area into something that makes the residents, when they're sitting or looking outside, feel like they've got that golf course living as well. "We're futureproofing ourselves against when all these families come and you've got 300 residents living on site and they've got families at the barbecue." The green is expected to have a lifespan of around 20 years, and with little to no maintenance, is a very attractive option for clubs around the country who are stretched thin for resources. Part of the land swap deal with Living Choice has meant that Flagstaff Hill has also got a brand-new clubhouse, complete with all the trimmings. "The clubhouse is on the first level of one of the apartment buildings," said Coulter "We've got a pool and gym, there's a 30-seat cinema, and a wellness centre. "There is two TrackMan simulators and the restaurant holds 250 for breakfast, lunch and dinner seven days a week. "We've also got the big mini golf, 2,000 square metres, which Himalayas Golf are building as well." Flagstaff Hill are also in the process of re-shaping its first hole to reimagine the landing zone for increased playability. Get weekly updates on news, golf tips and access to partner promotions. Join our newsletterGet weekly updates on news, golf tips and access to partner promotions! The page you're looking for could not be found. It may have been moved or archived, or you may have followed a broken link on another site. You may also have bookmarked a page on our old site that no longer works. The best way to find what you're looking for is to search. and inset pictures of past Yours and Owls festivals where a two-day music event will be held next March Main picture by Robert PeetWith its two lighthouses more than 270-degree ocean views and a backdrop of the steelworks it's hard to think of a more prominent Wollongong location than Flagstaff Hill Festival co-founder Ben Tillman said he never imagined his company would be able to hold the festival in such a picturesque spot when they announced they would move to the Wollongong foreshore for this year's event "We always knew having a festival here would be really special but we never really thought it would be possible," he said "This is the most iconic place in Wollongong and we are hoping that we are also iconic and synonymous with Wollongong Festival co-founder Ben Tillman at Flagstaff Hill Picture by Adam McLean"You can't beat this - and I don't really think you can beat this festival site in the world you'll see the sun set over the escarpment - it'll be amazing." He said organisers had been working with council health and other players to make the festival site work "We hope this will be like one giant ad for Wollongong and people will be travelling here to attend and it will make them want to come back," he said Mr Tillman said the main stage of the festival would be located near the ring road of Endeavour Drive facing into the natural amphitheatre of the park in the middle of the headland and out to the ocean as well as amenities and food and drink vans and a stage up near the main Flagstaff Lighthouse Mr Tillman acknowledged said there were numerous hurdles to contend with - like access heritage and protection of the Vietnam war memorial - but that the Yours and Owls crew were confident they could pull it off "Throwing any festival is hard - over the past five or six years a global pandemic which shut everything down and a cost-of-living crisis Festival co-founder Ben Tillman near the lighthouse at Flagstaff Hill which will be surrounded by music stages next March Picture by Adam McLeanHe said organisers were hoping to limit the disruption especially to the roads and car spaces around the foreshore but would most likely need their usual three days to bump in before and after the event The line up for the event was announced in mid-October and Mr Tillman said they were already selling faster than the last festival in 2023 The Yours and Owls festival started in 2014 at Stuart Park as an anniversary celebration for the small music venue opened by Mr Tillman and his friends where it ran for several years before being interrupted by the pandemic In 2021, it was moved to Dalton Park to allow for seating and other measures required under COVID-19 restrictions after flooding ravaged the Illawarra and destroyed the basin-like grounds at Stuart Park it was staged at the University of Wollongong with the two organisation announcing a three-year deal ovals and laneways as the perfect spot for stages and festival infrastructure the festival's date change from its usual October to March plonked it right between orientation week and the start of lectures at the University of Wollongong which meant the campus wasn't an option for next year were announced as the headliners for the 2025 festival Homegrown faves Hockey Dad are also on the lineup Proudly Illawarra Mercury since 2011, I'm an award-winning reporter who has helped the paper set the news agenda across our region for more than a decade. Today's top stories curated by our news team Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters Get the latest property and development news here Find out what's happening in local business tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday Let the ACM network's editors and journalists bring you news and views from all over reviews and expert insights every Thursday from CarExpert Your digital replica of Today's Paper Test your skills with interactive crosswords 9 infrastructure projects and two feasibility studies were supported under the fund in the Whitsundays The Whitsundays Cyclone Debbie Tourism Recovery Fund was part of a joint commitment by the Queensland and Australian Governments under the Tourism Demand-Driver Infrastructure program to aid recovery and create new tourism experiences and infrastructure Nine infrastructure projects and two feasibility studies supported under the fund the auditorium replaced the former temporary marquee at the Bougainvillea Pool and provides event and wedding facilities for the Whitsunday Region Creation and installation of a digital interpretive space The content focuses on key visitor experiences across the Whitsunday Region and is visually enriching visitors’ enquiries at the centre including increased engagement and interaction with family groups A cardboard version is used as gifts for trade partners The project delivered all-weather walking trails with interpretive panels on Border The Border Island short walk is 1.2 kilometres takes one hour to complete and includes a steep ascent The walk travels along the island’s native grassland and has views from each of the lookouts The Langford Island short track is about 300 metres with a gentle incline and some stone steps The track is best suited to walkers with moderate fitness and bushwalking experience uphill short walk is 300 metres one way to the island’s rocky headland The project delivered a propagation facility located on Daydream Island which gives visitors the opportunity to learn about coral propagation Visitors are also able to view coral growth at Lovers Cove The coral restoration sites have planted coral fragments on spider frames 1,500 coral colonies have been outplanted at Lovers Cove The funding delivered new and upgraded infrastructure to support land and water-based tourism activities at Hill Inlet Works included extension of existing viewing platforms interpretation panels and improved access to Tongue Point This inclusive family friendly water play attraction saw the creation of a fully accessible resort pool with a shallow entry area and wheelchair accessible ramp and flush fitting water play facilities for guests of all abilities Delivery of new tourism infrastructure at Peter Faust Dam (Lake Proserpine) to support new tourism experiences in the region As a result of the upgrades and new facilities the area has been highly activated and well used creation and installation of six sculptures across four locations in the Whitsunday-Bowen region The sculptures educate visitors about reef ecology and encourage marine rehabilitation while offering an in-water recreational experience The centre was funded by Whitsunday Regional Council the Queensland Government's Building Our Regions program and the jointly funded Queensland and Australian Governments’ Tourism Demand-Driver Infrastructure program native flora landscaping and floor-to-ceiling glass windows Flagstaff Hill offers a premier event and Indigenous tourism venue for the northern Whitsundays The tourism venue supports the delivery of Indigenous tourism activities and showcase the area’s natural beauty Photos of the infrastructure and local areas that benefited from the fund The department acknowledges Aboriginal peoples and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Owners and custodians of the land and pay our respects to Elders past and present and our obligations under the Human Rights Act 2019 © The State of Queensland (Department of the Environment Queensland Government Picture by Katrina LovellAn iconic cafe location in Warrnambool will get a new lease on life when it opens in time for the long weekend after having sat vacant for a year All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum space has been given a facelift ahead of the official opening of Beaches Cafe and Bar on Friday Rachael Street is the face behind the new business "It takes a lot to get a business like this off the ground I pretty much don't sleep until we are open," she said setting up the point of sale as well on top of everything else I have become a very organised project manager so I can make make a business come together in a short timeframe." Ms Street opened a clothes store in 2014 in Port Fairy before selling and opening a cafe in Warrnambool After selling the cafe she opened another clothes store in Warrnambool before moving it to Port Fairy "I don't like to take all the credit for setting up a business," she said She said she had a lot of support from her mum - who will set up and manage the kitchen - and her partner Paddy O'Donohue helping with renovations "I also have an amazing team of local tradesman behind me who go way over and beyond to get the job done as quickly as possible for me," she said "I've really only had the keys for probably three weeks We've done all of the transformation within two weeks It's a big makeover inside and out," she said New furniture and umbrellas have been brought in new flooring has been installed and it has been given a fresh coat of paint inside and out Rachael Street is opening Beaches Cafe and Bar at Flagstaff Hill for the first time on Friday Picture by Katrina Lovell"We're doing up the outside to make the most of the balcony and outside space." Beaches will open seven days a week for breakfast and lunch "I will be having some live music every now and then on a Sunday afternoon," she said "I'll be having different events throughout the year including a New Year's Eve event which will be live music along with watching the fireworks "The support from the council has also been fantastic with them also being excited to be able to offer restaurant facilities to tourists and locals "There has been a lot of excitement from the public and we are excited to have such a great opportunity in a prime location." Ms Street said she had also been able to hire two chefs and some front of house staff to work in the new business Katrina Lovell is a senior journalist at The Standard who covers council news and human interest stories. Newsletters & AlertsView allDaily Keep up with netball news from across the region the Warrnambool Men’s Shed Amateur Radio Group will broadcast live from Flagstaff Hill on August 17 and 18 - joining over 400 lighthouse-based amateur radio groups from across the world all aiming to establish communication with as many other operators as possible over the course of the weekend The event is part of a big weekend at Flagstaff Hill which also sees the return of Fire Night on August 17 with a twilight cannon firing food vans and open fires perfect for toasting marshmallows Flagstaff Hill Village Activations Coordinator Kate Wake said that she was happy to be able to combine the two events into one bumper weekend “The whole idea with linking the Lighthouse Weekend and Fire Night is that fires were the original lighthouses so the events really complement each other on a historical level,” she said “Fire Night we started last year for the first time and it was such a big success we’re working that into the lighthouse weekend.” Warrnambool Men’s Shed Amateur Radio Group member Greg McNamara said that he was looking forward to speaking with locals as well as other radio operators across the globe “People are quite welcome to come down and have a look and if they want to pick up the microphone and say g’day to someone at another lighthouse,” he said “(In previous years) we’ve spoken with lighthouses in New Zealand “At the moment the conditions are really good because the sun is very active so we’re expecting some good operating conditions.” The group will be on the airwaves on the Saturday from 10am-9:30pm and on the Sunday from 10am-2pm Broadcasting from within the lighthouse itself would be a tight squeeze with the group to set up in the nearby Chart Room instead “We just need to be in line of site of the lighthouse to be able to operate as part of the weekend,” Mr McNamara said “Warrnambool is very unique in that it has two lighthouses there aren’t a lot of others that have dual lighthouses so we actually activate both those numbers “Some people we’ve spoken to have actually been here He said that the radio group is always looking for new members with operations usually based from the Men’s Shed on Hyland Street so anyone who wants to get involved in amateur radio Entry to Flagstaff Hill for International Lighthouse Weekend is via general admission As well as the radio broadcast there will also be historical presentations kids craft activities and performances by the “Lady of History” where she will assume the character of a convict and a pirate while interacting with guests which runs from 5pm-9.30pm on Saturday August 17 This event will begin with the twilight firing of the 80 pound cannon followed by live music on the wharf and hearty winter warming food from Bambino Wood Fired Pizza There will also be open fires and marshmallows available for toasting Wollongong City Council has been working closely with representatives of Yours and Owls in the planning of their upcoming event on 1 and 2 March it’s Council’s practice to have a phased approach to the event assessment and approval process This allows the event organisers the opportunity to work closely and collaboratively with key stakeholders like Council NSW Health and NSW Ambulance across the duration of their event-planning timeframe The assessment process provides the organisers with the flexibility to respond to stakeholder feedback if needed up to within days of the event we gave in-principle support to Yours and Owls in late December 2024 following extended conversations regarding Yours and Owls’ proposed management of a range of site variables and the receipt of a formal event application The Traffic Management Plan and Guidance Scheme for Yours and Owls was considered by the City of Wollongong Traffic Committee on Tuesday 11 February and it’s expected an interim licence will be issued to Yours and Owls by early next week It’s expected final approval for the event will be issued in the days leading up to its bump in Wollongong City Council is a big supporter and a keen advocate for seeing a diverse range of events on offer in our city and we’re looking forward to seeing the festival on Flagstaff Hill next month We know events like this are valued by our community members as a great way for people to socialise and feel connected to their community They can support a range of local businesses – the team behind Yours and Owls are locals – and offer the benefit of bringing tourists and day-trippers into the city Council is recognised as an industry leader for our Foreshore Generic Event Approvals provide clear guidelines and a starting point for event organisers and mean individual event organisers are not required to work through a DA process We’re appreciative of the collaborative approach the Yours and Owls event team has taken to working with all the key stakeholders We’re comfortable with the progression of the Yours and Owls event planning and are excited about the opportunity to see another high-quality event on Flagstaff Hill Error: no decision tree source folder detected The discoverer of relics from the ill-fated Loch Ard shipwreck has been reunited with her find 44 years later.  was featured in several photos that were posted to a local community Facebook page Council was accused of not caring for Amor Some people were concerned he was resting on a patch of bare earth and that there were weeds in the paddock  The person who took the photos thought he looked distressed The photos were taken on November 26 and passed on to another person who posted them to the Warrnambool and District Noticeboard Facebook page Commentary accompanying the photos made unfounded accusations against Council The post gained traction and was shared about 2000 times which resulted in online criticism towards Council Flagstaff Hill and those involved in the Middle Island maremma program.  There were also calls from angry people made to staff at Flagstaff Hill and to the customer service team at the Civic Centre A number of emails repeating the unfounded claims from the Facebook post were also received by Council The problem with the social media post was that the depiction of neglect is wrong Amor is one of our oldest maremmas and in the photos posted to the Warrnambool and District Noticeboard he looked tired as he leaned against his kennel at Flagstaff Hill mainly because he is old and does not have the vigour of a younger dog he’s also getting on a bit: maremmas are not a particularly long-lived breed.  Amor has a medical condition that affects his rear legs and has caused him to lose weight He is on a care plan that has been devised by vets and which is followed by a dedicated team of dog handlers and the caring staff at Flagstaff Hill The pictures on this page were taken on December 5 at Flagstaff Hill where the dogs are kept in a grassy area of about 200sqm You can see that Amor and Avis are cared for and that Amor The team directly involved with the Middle Island program is deeply invested in the dogs and have their welfare as a top priority The team does all it can to ensure the dogs are as happy and healthy as possible The Facebook post and suggestions of neglect are very upsetting for the staff and volunteers who make a huge effort to look after the dogs Our dogs enjoy rich and stimulating lives. To gain an accurate insight into all that they get up to we encourage people to go to www.instagram.com/wboolpenguins/ All of our maremma dogs spend much of their time in open space (about 1500sqm) near Deakin University which includes specially built shelters It’s an environment that has everything they need It even has a few chickens on site to help keep their protector senses sharp It is very clear that our maremma dogs are loved safe and receive excellent veterinary care.  attendees will be able to discover the rich history of wool Flagstaff Hill Village Activations Coordinator Kate Wake said that everything from shearing to knitting and everything in between would be highlighted “Over the weekend we will be showing demonstrations of traditional blade shearing with some local blade shearers from Orford,” she said “Then we will have somebody here preparing the fleece doing some carding and combing and demonstrating the difference between those two techniques “Then spinning the wool into yarn… using the yard to do knitting We’ll also have some demonstrations of dyeing and needlepoint felting.” Wool Weekend is also part of the Warrnambool Storytelling Festival with yarns to be spun in every sense of the word “We’ll have some storytelling going on – some kids’ woolly sheep stories and some really fascinating historical stories about the origins of felting and knitting sweaters all over the world,” Ms Wake said we also have some nice winter warming specials up in the tea rooms for the whole school holidays but over wool weekend we’ll have shepherd’s pie.” Father and son shearers Terry and Luke Rowbottom will demonstrate the traditional technique of shearing sheep with blade shears “I’ve been doing blade shearing demos for over 25 years now,” said Luke Luke then taught the blade shearing technique to his father I took on blade shearing when I was over 60 “On my second year of blade shearing I won a Victorian title.” The pair said that while you couldn’t shear as many sheep in a day with blades compared to machine shearing with many sheep appreciated the “number four” haircut from a blade shear compared to a “number one” hair cut with a machine The wool also begins to regrow quicker after a blade shear because of the vibrations of it… it leaves a different texture,” Luke said He encouraged everyone to come to Flagstaff Hill on the weekend where they will be performing live blade shearing demonstration I’ve got some timber cut outs that are made for kids and some hand-pieces… spray them up with shaving cream and the kids can go for their life.” All demonstrations and activities are included in the regular Flagstaff Hill ticket price Many of the craftspeople will also have their own woollen goods for sale For more information visit www.flagstaffhill.com For more information and appendices for each item The below summary is unconfirmed until the Minutes of the Meeting are accepted by Council Opening Prayer & Original Custodians Statement The Minutes of the Scheduled Meeting of Council held on 7 October 2024 and the Minutes of the Annual (Statutory) Meeting of Council held on 18 November 2024 were confirmed Declaration by Councillors and Officers of any Conflict of Interest in any Item on the Agenda Cr Edis Declared a Conflict of Interest in Item 7.5 Cr Arnott Declared a Conflict of Interest in Item 7.6 Cr Walsh Declared a Conflict of Interest in Item 7.6 times and places of all Scheduled Council Meetings for the following 12 months at the first Council meeting following the Annual (Statutory) Meeting of Council The proposed Scheduled Council Meeting dates for the period February 2025 – December 2025 is contained within the recommendation A new Council term provides Council with opportunity to review the day and time meetings are held to ensure best accessibility for the community and optimal organisational performance Council supported the following recommendation (7-0): That Warrnambool City Council meetings for 2025 be held at 5.45pm in the Reception Room • Monday 17 November 2025 - Annual Council Meeting Appointments to Advisory Committees & External Bodies This report considers Councillor representation on the various Council Advisory Committees and external bodies with which Council is associated with for the period 2 December 2024 to 17 November 2025 Council supported the following recommendations (7-0): That the following Councillor representatives and delegates to the Advisory Committees and external committees for the period 2 December 2024 to 17 November 2025 be approved and that relevant advisory committees and external bodies be advised accordingly: That the Planning Advisory Committee be re-established appointing the following community members until 31 May 2025: That the Community & International Relations Advisory Committee Economic Development and Tourism Advisory Committee and the Environment and Sustainability Advisory Committee be not re-established Warrnambool City Council (WCC) and Moyne Shire Council (MSC) have collaborated to produce a joint Youth Strategy (the Strategy) that crosses municipal boundaries which identifies joint and individual council’s actions and responsibilities The aim of the Strategy is to enable Council to take a proactive approach in engaging young people in Warrnambool who make up over 15% of Warrnambool’s population The strategy will set the direction of Council’s work in collaboration with young people and other stakeholders Future Tense were engaged as consultants to facilitate the Strategy development through a joint procurement managed by MSC comprising of 20 young people (10 Warrnambool The panel met throughout the process to shape and guide the development of the strategy The Draft Youth Strategy is now prepared for Council approval to release to public comment That Council approve the Draft Moyne and Warrnambool Youth Strategy 2025-2030 be released for public comment and review Council has a significant asset portfolio which consists of a diverse range of assets across a range of asset classes The Asset Disposal Policy (the Policy) has been drafted to guide appropriate disposal practices when staff are disposing of assets The Policy defines methods allowable for the disposal of Council owned assets where a process for disposal is not otherwise governed by legislation plans or practices specific to the individual asset class for example such as roads where the Road Management Act 2004 applies The Policy is a Council policy and is submitted to Council for consideration with a recommendation to adopt That Council adopts the Asset Disposal Policy Award of Contract 2024042 - City Kindergarten Entrance Council sought and were successful in receiving funding from the State Government to undertake works at the City Kindergarten at Swan Reserve to improve flow and function of the facility which provides both early learning and maternal child health services Council publicly advertised a tender for the partial demolition and construction of the new entryway at Swan Reserve on Friday which was open to submission for a period of six (6) weeks A tender evaluation of the tender submissions was completed by the Tender Evaluation Panel Bolden Constructions Pty Ltd is the recommended tenderer to be awarded the Contract as they were determined to have the highest weighted score and Council supported the following recommendations (6-0): 2024042– City Kindergarten Entrance to Bolden Constructions Pty Ltd for the tendered amount of $515,483.59 excl Authorise Council officers to deliver the City Kindergarten Entrance in accordance with the contract under the financial delegations detailed within the Procurement Policy Authorise the Chief Executive Officer to sign Planning Scheme Amendment C213warr - Panel Report Adoption Amendment C213warr seeks to rezone land at Riverview Terrace from the Rural Living zone to the General Residential zone (GRZ1) A combined planning application for a 2 lot subdivision at 32 Riverview Terrace is simultaneously proposed The amendment removes the Design and Development overlay (DDO2) from the land and replaces it with the DDO17 During exhibition Council received six submissions and the key issues raised in the submissions include: - Impact on flora and fauna resulting in loss of biodiversity and associated impact on neighbourhood character - Impact on views from neighbouring properties associated with the two-lot subdivision of 32 Riverview Terrace - Requests from government agencies to include certain conditions on any permit issued Council resolved to refer the submissions to an independent Planning Panel appointed by the Minister for Planning An online directions hearing was held on 31 July 2024 followed by an in person panel hearing at Council offices on 27 August 2024 Council received the Panel report on 3 October 2024 and it was publicly released on 11 October 2024 The Panel has found that the Amendment is strategically supported and represents a logical extension to the adjoining General Residential zoned land The Panel also supported the application for subdivision at 32 Riverview Terrace and concludes that the two lots represent an orderly and logical development of the land Council supported the following recommendations (5-0): Pursuant to Sections 27(1) and 96F of the Planning and Environment Act 1987 (the Act) receives and considers the Planning Panel’s report regarding Amendment C213warr and Planning Permit PP2022-0060 to the Warrnambool Planning Scheme • Revise Design and Development Overlay Schedule 17 to include “in accordance with any approved amendment plan as approved under Development Plan Overlay Schedule 13” after ‘Protect views from existing dwellings in Banksia Drive and Acacia Court’ recommends to the Minister for Planning that planning permit PP2022-0060 to subdivide land at 32 Riverview Terrace Warrnambool (Clause 32.08-3 and Clause 43.02-3) be granted generally in accordance with the ‘Panel Version-Draft planning permit C213warr’ subject to the deletion of Condition 15b (Attachment 2) Pursuant to Sections 31(1) and 96H (1) of the Act and Planning Permit PP2022-0060 to the Minister for Planning for approval Council Plan Actions 2024 - 2025: July - September (Quarter 1) This report provides information on the progress in achieving the actions set down for 2024-2025 as part of the Council Plan and Budget process This report provides Council and the community with an update in the progress of actions across Councils' functional areas That the Council Plan Actions 2024 – 2025: July – September (Quarter 1) Declaration Of Liquor Free Area In Warrnambool's Central Business District An internal review of the laws and regulations regarding Consumption of Liquor was requested to assist Local Laws Officers and Victoria Police in enforcing the offence if required Council officers have met with Victoria Police who have recommended that a Liquor Free Area be declared for the Warrnambool Central Business District and that Victoria Police Officers be made Authorised Officers to enforce provisions of Clause 64 of the Warrnambool City Council Community Amenity Local Law Declare at all times the area bound by the corner of Merri Street and Banyan Street to the corner of Raglan Parade East Bound and Banyan Street to the intersection of Spence Street and Raglan Parade to the intersection of Jamieson Street and Spence Street to the corner if Raglan Parade East Bound and Jamieson Street to the intersection of Henna Street and Raglan Parade East Bound following Henna Street to the Railway Line following the railway line to Pertobe Road and to the corner of Merri Street and Banyan Street to be a Liquor Free Area Instruct the Chief Executive Officer to issue a notice in the Victorian Government Gazette that any Police Officer may act as an ‘Authorised Officer’ as per section 223 of the Local Government Act 1989 to enforce provisions of Clause 64 of the Warrnambool City Council Community Amenity Local Law regarding the consumption and possession of liquor Erect signs in consultation with Victoria Police to enable the enforcement of Clause 64 of the Warrnambool City Council Community Amenity Local Law Note that the restrictions on possession and consumption of liquor do not apply to any business or persons who have a permit to serve or consume liquor Quarterly Financial Report - July to September 2024 This quarterly finance report compares actual financial results to budget and forecast for the three months from 1 July 2024 to 30 September 2024 – refer Attachment 1 Quarterly Finance Report The report sets out the financial results for Council’s recurrent (day-to-day) operations That the Quarterly Financial Report July to September 2024 be received This report outlines the benefits of establishing a robust network of local ambassadors for Flagstaff Hill (FSH) The proposed "Flagstaff Hill Local Ambassador Program" aims to grant Warrnambool residents free access to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village That Council endorses the implementation of the Flagstaff Hill Local Ambassador program where locals enter the village for free Section 80A(2) of the Local Government Act 1989 required the record of an Assembly of Councillors to be reported at an ordinary Council meeting Assembly of Councillor Records are no longer a requirement in the Local Government Act 2020 as of 24 October 2020 a summary of the matters discussed at the meeting are required to be tabled at the next convenient Council meeting and recorded in the minutes of that Council meeting The record of the following Informal Meetings of Council are enclosed: Monday 25 November 2025 – refer Attachment 1 That the record of the Informal Meeting of Council held on 25 November 2024 Mayoral & Chief Executive Officer Council Activities - Summary Report This report summarises Mayoral and Chief Executive Officer Council activities since the last Ordinary Meeting which particularly relate to key social economic and environmental issues of direct relevance to the Warrnambool community That the Mayoral & Chief Executive Officer Council Activities – Summary Report be received That standing orders be suspended to allow members of the public gallery to depart That in accordance with Section 66(2)(a) of the Local Government Act 2020 the meeting be closed to members of the public to consider items containing confidential personal information Section 66 (In-Camera) - Confidential Items 12.1 Minutes In-Camera Meeting of Council – 2 September 2024 Over 600 people rugged up for Flagstaff Hill’s Fire Night on August 17 The evening featured a twilight cannon firing food trucks and fires along the wharf that were perfect for toasting marshmallows The Flagstaff Hill tea rooms also brewed up their own special recipe of homemade hot chocolate which proved very popular Flagstaff Hill Acting Manager Ash Ansell said that he was pleased to see such a great response from locals and visitors with numbers increasing from the inaugural event held last year some had travelled from as far as Hamilton specifically for the event,” he said “There were also people from visiting Warrnambool from further afield who were excited to be able to attend such a fun event which they weren’t planning for “And locals I spoke with felt that it was great to have a unique but people don’t necessarily want to stay inside all winter If there are events on and it’s not bucketing rain people are happy to head out and join in the fun “Our wider tourism campaign for Warrnambool is “embrace the winter” and events like Fire Night fit in perfectly.” Flagstaff Hill also hosted International Lighthouse Weekend with the Warrnambool Men’s Shed Amateur Radio Group making contact with enthusiasts around the world They made contact with around 170 people across the weekend including 14 groups operating from lighthouses and the rest were people who were interested in chatting to groups operating from lighthouses as part of the weekend celebrations Lighthouse connections were made throughout Victoria Tasmania and New Zealand while radio enthusiasts tuned in and made contact from all over the world including Finland also entertained patrons over the weekend with interactive performances as her alter egos Aaarrabella the Piratess and Irish convict as well as Rose Ann Hyland National Tree Day co-founder Jon Dee joined Flagstaff Hill Primary School students this week to plant trees on campus ahead of Schools Tree Day (today) and National Tree Day (Sunday 28 July) More than 40 trees were provided to the school – one of 14 participants in a Green Adelaide Education program to share in 500 trees – through the inaugural One Tree Per Child Onkaparinga campaign with Jon getting his hands dirty alongside 32 reception and year 5–6 students plant and shrub [you plant] is going to grow and hopefully you’ll continue helping the environment as you grow older and the tree grows with you so thank you very much for doing your planting today,” Jon told the Flagstaff students as they tried out their new gloves and trowels planted the trees in the ground and then covered them with recycled cardboard tree guards they’d previously decorated with art The trees – which include Mallee Box Slaty Sheoak and Prickly Tea Tree – will increase the school’s and Onkaparinga’s tree canopy and help create habitat for the vulnerable yellow-tailed black cockatoo – two of the campaign’s key aims One-thousand plants were earlier provided to Onkaparinga residents at a One Tree Per Child Onkaparinga tree giveaway event at Seaford Community Centre on Sunday 2 June Jon Dee established One Tree Per Child with Olivia Newton-John in 2015 and the community-interest social enterprise has since seen hundreds-of-thousands of trees planted in 10 countries The City of Onkaparinga became the first South Australian council to partner with the organisation on Earth Day this year The annual campaign acknowledges that metropolitan Adelaide’s tree canopy is under threat which represents 74 per cent of Onkaparinga) inspiration and trees to help cool their properties and provide habitat for wildlife If you’d like to plant at your home, business or school – head to the council’s One Tree Per Child Onkaparinga webpage where you’ll find advice for choosing drop a pin on the interactive map so the community can see Onkaparinga’s canopy grow One Tree Per Child Onkaparinga is a collaboration between the City of Onkaparinga with Australian rock legend Jimmy Barnes and wife Jane having also thrown their support behind the program National Tree Day is Australia’s largest community tree-planting and nature care event while Schools Tree Day is an annual opportunity to inspire students to learn about the local environment while playing an active role in their community Jon Dee has a long history of environmental work he co-founded Planet Ark and the DoSomething charities and has help from celebrity friends to promote his work One Tree Per Child Onkaparinga is just one of the City of Onkaparinga’s many programs to encourage urban greening It works in tandem with the council’s target to plant 100,000 trees on council land by 2037 with almost 58,000 trees already planted in streets All articles from our website & appThe digital version of Today's PaperBreaking news alerts direct to your inboxInteractive Crosswords, Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueAbout 650 people have already registered for the Thrill on the Hill event on Monday Warrnambool has been experiencing a busy summer City council economic development and tourism manager Paul Thompson said business had been going "very well" "Even compared to other parts of the Great Ocean Road Warrnambool seems to punching above its weight," he said Mr Thompson said the anecdotal evidence from retailers in the main street was it had been very strong this year He said Flagstaff Hill Maritime Maritime Museum and the council's foreshore caravan parks he managed had been "going great" And the visitor centre was still receiving calls from people looking for accommodation "If they're phoning us it means they're pretty well booked," he said the fires in the Grampians had meant more people were heading to Warrnambool their loss is our gain to some extent but it will be great to see them recover," he said Mr Thompson said visitor numbers to day activities at Flagstaff Hill were up and the night show numbers were holding steady Mayor Ben Blain says Warrnambool is gearing up for three busy days of racing.He said events like Monday's Thrill on the Hill brought more people into the city and things were boding well for the long weekend the holiday parks are busier this year again with a lot more people," he said Mr Thompson said many people based themselves in Warrnambool and travelled to the other speedway events in the region Thrill on the Hill will mark the formal opening of the 2025 Flying Horse Bar and Brewery Grand Annual Sprintcar Classic and is set to feature a parade of speedway cars through the streets of Flagstaff Hill village "Already we've got over 650 people registered to come and have a look so it's going to be a big day," Mr Thompson said The parade will start about 5.30pm but between 4pm and 8pm there will be live music food trucks and cannon firing to create a festival vibe Mayor Ben Blain said it was great to see Tim Rankin's sprintcar inside the visitor information centre "It's really marking the start of what the classic's going to be," Cr Blain said "We've got Thrill on the Hill on Monday which is going to be amazing to see all the sprintcars coming up the hill from down the bottom of Flagstaff HIll It really is something special for Warrnambool." Cr Blain said the classic gave a huge economic boost for Warrnambool. "We're going to have three great nights of racing plus all the other events that are around the region as well," he said Today's top stories curated by our news team. Grab a quick bite of today's latest news from around the region and the nation. Catch up on the news of the day and unwind with great reading for your evening. Get the editor's insights: what's happening & why it matters. Love footy? We've got all the action covered. The latest news, results & expert analysis. Keep up with netball news from across the region. Every Saturday and Tuesday, explore destinations deals, tips & travel writing to transport you around the globe. Sharp. Close to the ground. Digging deep. Your weekday morning newsletter on national affairs, politics and more. Your essential national news digest: all the big issues on Wednesday and great reading every Saturday. Get real, Australia! 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Picture fileWarrnambool City Council has allayed fears an ageing Maremma 'penguin protector' is being neglected Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueEarlier this week one of the council's Maremma dogs was featured on a local community Facebook page after a Ballarat visitor to Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum posted it was living in "poor conditions" But the council's chief executive officer Andrew Mason said Amor looked tired as he leaned against his kennel at Flagstaff Hill in the photo posted on the social media site mainly because he is old and does not have the vigour of a younger dog," Mr Mason said he's also getting on a bit; Maremmas are not a particularly long-lived breed." Mr Mason said Amor had health issues that affected his legs and caused him to lose weight "He is on a care plan that has been devised by vets," he said "In the social media post there were some weeds in the background of the picture and because he's in a paddock that had bare patches of earth the overall impression conveyed by the pictures and accompanying commentary was one of neglect A retired Maremma at Flagstaff Hill earlier this week Picture supplied"People reading the Facebook post were understandably concerned They reacted passionately and the post was shared hundreds of times "The problem with the post was that the depiction of neglect is wrong." Mr Mason said the team directly involved with the Middle Island penguin conservation program was very invested in their work and had the welfare of the dogs as a top priority "They are helping to implement the care plan for Amor and do all they can to ensure he is as happy and healthy as possible," he said "The Facebook post and suggestions of neglect are very upsetting for the staff and volunteers who make a huge effort to look after the dogs "Our dogs enjoy rich and stimulating lives. To gain an accurate insight into all that they get up to we encourage people to go to www.instagram.com/wboolpenguins/." Mr Mason said Amor was quite sociable for a Maremma despite the breed not being known for that "He still likes to socialise and has an opportunity to do this through the Penguin Protector educational experience that runs over the summer and by being on show at Flagstaff Hill There are younger Maremmas who stay on the island Mr Mason said the Maremmas spent much of their time in open space near Warrnambool's Deakin University "It's an environment that has everything they need It even has a few chickens on site to help keep their protector senses sharp," he said "The public should feel reassured that our Maremma dogs are loved cared for and receive excellent veterinary care." Ballarat resident Kelly O'Brien said family members had visited Warrnambool's Flagstaff Hill on Tuesday November 26 and described the dogs' living arrangements as "poor" They took pictures which were posted by Ms O'Brien on the Warrnambool and district community noticeboard Facebook page on Thursday afternoon "The Maremmas are there as promotional dogs who had spent their working lives protecting Little Penguins," she said "Both the dogs are retired but their living conditions at Flagstaff Hill are less than ideal My aunty was there earlier in the week and left in tears "There's not adequate shelter or proper fencing There was a tub of water in the hot weather and no protection from the sun There needs to be suitable care and attention provided "There's no pride at all in the enclosure or the dogs." The Vet Group's Wollaston practice manager Sam Castley said its staff were proud of their partnership with the team at The Middle Island project and "the great care and attention that goes into ensuring that all of the dogs are fit healthy and comfortable both when they are working or resting" "All of the dogs receive regular and routine veterinary care as well as any emergency treatment they require and are deeply cared for by the volunteers that bring them to the clinic." A 62-year-old man from Flagstaff Hill was convicted in the Christies Beach Magistrates Court today on one count of aggravated animal ill-treatment under SA’s Animal Welfare Act after failing to seek veterinary care for his chronically ill dog was brought into RSPCA South Australia’s care on 18 March 2023 after being found wandering loose in Flagstaff Hill ulcerated tumour covering his chest and another large pendulous tumour hanging from his right hind leg that impeded his movement RSPCA SA vet Julie Hearn described Hudson’s temperament during examination and assessment of his condition as “sweet Due to the dog’s shocking condition and poor prognosis it was decided that euthanasia was the only humane option the last time that Hudson had been seen by a vet was on 13 January 2022 Magistrate Kylie Schulz sentenced the defendant to a prison term of two months and 24 days reduced from four months due to his early guilty plea Her Honour suspended the sentence upon the defendant entering into a 12-month good behaviour bond and prohibited the defendant from owning any animals until further order Her Honour told the court that a paramount consideration in sentencing was protecting animals and general deterrence and agreed with RSPCA SA’s assertion that veterinary treatment should have been sought at a much earlier stage “Animals are reliant on their owners to obtain veterinary treatment at the earliest opportunity,” Her Honour said “They cannot tell us how much pain they are in and owners must limit any suffering that their animals endure “You were misguided in believing your remedies were sufficient rather than the care of a professional.” RSPCA SA Chief Inspector Andrew Baker said the defendant had chosen to ignore his dog’s very obvious need for veterinary treatment and the consequences for his pet had been horrendous “This poor dog has been left to endure the full course of cancer for months Hudson received no veterinary attention for almost a year before he came to us,” Inspector Baker said “It was just by chance that this desperately ill dog wandered off his owner’s property and was found and brought to our vet team far too late for them to do anything for him other than stop his pain and distress by humanely euthanasing him “Timely vet care is a critical part of pet ownership – to ignore what is happening with an animal and allow their condition to deteriorate to this point is shocking and cruel “We urge pet owners not to turn a blind eye when their animals require vet attention and to take their pets for regular vet check-ups so if any health issues arise “And if a vet recommends euthanasia as the most humane option then as loving and responsible owners we should accept that expert advice.” the maximum penalty for animal cruelty is $20,000 or two years’ imprisonment the maximum penalty is $50,000 or four years’ imprisonment RSPCA South Australia is the state’s only animal welfare charity with inspectors empowered to prosecute animal cruelty under SA’s Animal Welfare Act Members of the public who witness animal cruelty or neglect are urged to immediately call RSPCA’s 24-hour cruelty report hotline on 1300 477 722 Spin Your Wheels – a free youth-focused community event featuring live music, skate workshops, a sausage sizzle and more – is headed to Flagstaff Hill’s Minkarra Skate Park on Thursday 12 September Held on R U OK? Day – a national suicide prevention day of action – the event (4:30 to 6:30pm) will also include skate demos market stalls and other activities created by and for young people There’ll even be a Best Dressed Dog Competition thanks to young people studying an Event Management Course through Onkaparinga Youth Nominate your precious pup in any of the below categories by 5pm on Tuesday 10 September to take part – there are some great prizes on offer Note – all dogs must be on a lead if they’re not in the dog park section of Minkarra Park If you’re a young business owner and wish to have a market stall at the event, you can apply at the council’s website Spin Your Wheels is the first 2024–25 event of Onkaparinga Youth’s Regen Series – an annual program of events across the year by young people for young people Each event is co-designed and delivered by young people and the City of Onkaparinga Youth Team File pictureAttempts to attract a new restaurant operator at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum have failed to secure a new tenant Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueWarrnambool City Council called for expressions of interest last year in the hopes of getting a new food venue but to no avail The move follows the closure of the Pippies restaurant in Easter 2024 when lease negotiations broke down The popular Pippies restaurant had operated for about two decades before it closed the doors The failure to attract any interest for a new operator was a sign of the times "In what is perhaps a reflection of the challenging times for some hospitality operators no submissions were received," a council spokesperson said "There was some interest in some 'pop-up' activity over the summer however this did not come to fruition." Flagstaff Hill has procured the kitchen equipment from the previous tenant which means the restaurant comes fitted with essential facilities and allows it to continue to operate as a venue for weddings "Council is focused on suitable activation of the unique location which provides some of the best views across the foreshore," the spokesperson said The council has ambitious plans to revamp Flagstaff Hill which could include a geothermal spa and hotel accommodation but any works would require private investment and outside funding Flagstaff HIll is not the only high-profile location the city council has struggled to secure a tenant for Attempts to get a new operator for the city's learning and library hub after the sudden demise of Tasty Plate in January 2024 have been challenging After advertising for a new operator to reopen the cafe, the council announced in March 2024 it had secured one, but the deal fell through However a council spokesperson said it was currently investigating inquiries received in late 2024 for the operation of the library cafe "We know that the cafe was a popular aspect of the Warrnambool Library and we hope to see it re-open with a new contractor as soon as possible," the council said Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueA council spokesman said the council was in phase one of the implementation approach for its Flagstaff Hill Reimagined concept - a document that was adopted by councillors in February 2024 The plan includes a total overhaul of the complex and could include a geothermal spa and hotel accommodation - but that would require private investment and state government intervention on Crown Land rules to make it possible The vision would mean turning the water pond into a spa and a wellness centre as well as a 40 to 80-room hotel complex a brewery or distillery and storm-viewing tower and lift The ageing tourist attraction - which is also home to shipwreck artefacts - has been labelled old, tired and "bleeding money" the council has taken the next step and made an application to the Victorian Government's Enabling Tourism Fund "The fund has two streams and we've applied for the first stream which provides support to 'test the concept' of a large new infrastructure project like a feasibility study or masterplan," a council spokesman said "We are seeking $400,000 through the Enabling Tourism Fund to which council would also contribute $200,000 "We are awaiting the outcome of the application cognisant that ours is one of several strong bids in a very competitive environment." The council has been activating the site with a number of functions and events this year including the Targa Classica Rally Teddy Bears Picnic and Winter Wool Weekend In the coming months it will host the International Lighthouse Weekend Fire Night and the Wreckfest and Rare Trades Festival New events such as the Winter Wool Weekend have produced "impressive" results This year the village recorded its busiest winter school holidays since at least 2017 with the special Wool Weekend event playing a big part There were 2913 daytime visitors between June 29 and July 14 - up on the impressive 2525 in 2023 and significantly up on pre-COVID levels of 2290 in 2019 Luke and Terry Rowbottom helped deliver one of the busiest school holidays at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Museum File pictureWhile the sound and light show was quieter this year compared with last year - 787 down from 949 - a total of 3700 day and night visitors still makes it the most popular winter school holiday period since at least 2017 -possibly longer Wool Weekend was held on the middle weekend of the school holidays and featured traditional blade shearing felting and knitting demonstrations and workshops This was in addition to a bumper program of school holiday activities that ran over the fortnight Warrnambool mayor Ben Blain said it was a busy school holidays at Flagstaff Hill "Council has adopted a new long-term vision and opportunities plan for Flagstaff Hill so over the next decade there could be a lot of new elements at the site," he said Flagstaff Hill is costing ratepayers up to $720,000 a year to keep afloat Pictures by Anna WarrFestivalgoers have danced until their feet hurt for the first day of Yours and Owls 2025 Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueThe iconic festival has been held at Flagstaff Hill for the first time providing a unique backdrop for music lovers to see their favourite artists perform Click on the photo below to more photos from the first day of Yours and Owls Festival View +97 PhotosPictures by Anna WarrHere's everything you need to know as Yours and Owls takes over Flagstaff HillYours and Owls is back with a new location a new date and a new lineup - and it's all happening this weekend Around 15,000 music lovers are expected to converge on Wollongong to see acts like Fontaines D.C., Denzel Curry and The Kooks This guide will let you know how the weather is looking how to get to the festival site and other tips to make sure your weekend is all about the music Saturday in Wollongong will be partly cloudy with a maximum temperature of 28 degrees and a minimum of 21 with a maximum temperature of 25 degrees and a minimum of 21 The Bureau of Meteorology recommends sun protection for both days with the UV Index predicted to reach very high on both days Yours and Owls 2023. Picture by Adam McLeanHow to get thereThe festival is being held for the first time at Flagstaff Hill near Wollongong Harbour and is sure to be a unique music experience Festival organisers do not recommend driving the nearest options are in the Wollongong CBD There will be a dedicated drop-off and pick-up zone for private vehicles on Marine Drive near Lang Park Festival goers catching public transport will be able to walk along Crown Street from Wollongong train station to the festival which Google Maps estimates will take about 30 minutes Yours and Owls Harbour Stage being set up at Flagstaff Hill Picture by Adam McLeanThe free Gong Shuttle runs buses from Crown Street to Cliff Road every 10 to 20 minutes a free courtesy shuttle bus will depart from outside WIN Entertainment Centre to Wollongong Central near Humber and will run from 10pm on Saturday and 9pm on Sunday until midnight other motorists are advised to expect delays and queuing around the Wollongong foreshore Transport for NSW says road closures will be in place from 7am to 12am on Saturday 1 March and 7am to 11pm on Sunday 2 March on Cliff Rd and Marine Drive between Harbour Street and the Crown Street intersection Motorists are advised to follow the direction of signs and traffic control Yours and Owls will be the first music festival in NSW to trial pill testing. Festival organisers advise the standard legalities around illegal drugs still apply within the festival site However, the area around and within the testing tent - which will be located within the medical tent for anonymity - will be an amnesty area There will still be NSW Police will be on-site undertaking activities including drug dog and strip search operations NSW Police urged all festival goers to stay safe and act responsibly during the festival Wollongong Police District Detective Acting Superintendent Glen Broadhead said safety was the top priority "We are expecting in excess of 10,000 people to attend the event so we are urging festivalgoers to look out for each other," he said "Police will be targeting anti-social behaviour and alcohol-fuelled violence "Any behaviour that puts yourself or others at risk will not be tolerated." Set times and the sitemap can be found here. There will be no locker or cloakroom for the event so only pack what you can carry Tickets must match the name and date of birth found on a valid form of ID there are less than 500 tickets left for the festival Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, covering business and entertainment most of the time. Got a tip? Send it to me at joel.ehsman@austcommunitymedia.com.au. He/Him I understand and agree that my personal information will be collected, stored and used, in accordance with the PGA of Australia's privacy policy Brad Burns consolidated his status as king of the sand greens on the 2025 PGA Legends Tour by sharing the WRL Engineering Warren Legends Pro-Am title with John Onions today After winning the Australian PGA Senior Sand Greens Championship at Cobar Bowling and Golf Club in a playoff on Monday Burns shot a round of 5-under-par 65 to match Onions With a mixture of 12 grass and six sand scrape greens provided a unique challenge to the Legends field “I want to take all the sand home and start putting on that actually,” Burns joked “I putt really good on sand and not so good on grass “I was 6-under after 10 and then had a couple of three putts on the grass.” Looking for his first outright win of the year Onions was cruising at 5-under through 15 holes before he slipped up with a double-bogey at the par-3 16th hole to hand Burns top spot A bounce back birdie on 17 saw the Victorian walk off the last hole one shot behind as Burns came to 16 his second bogey of the back nine leaving the Queenslander with two holes to regain the solo lead Burns parred 17 and 18 to settle for a share of the title Burns said: “We always have a great time when we come here They’re all so hospitable and it’s always nice to come back.” Onions said: “I’m happy to tie with the king of sand” Burns earns Australian PGA Senior Sand Greens title Queensland’s Brad Burns has played his way into the $140,000 World Sand Greens Championship at Binalong courtesy of a playoff triumph at the Australian PGA Senior Sand Greens Championship at Cobar Bowling and Golf Club Forced into a Monday finish after rain prevented any play on Saturday the PGA Legends Tour players extended their stay in Cobar so that the $50,000 tournament could have its full complement of 36 holes Trailing Murray Lott by a single shot after Round 1 Burns had to bounce back from a late bogey at the par-3 15th with consecutive birdies to shoot 68 and join Andre Stolz and Nigel Weldon at 7-under par The trio headed back to the par-4 18th where Burns was able to secure his third win for the season “Birdied 16 and 17 and a nice little par on the last “It took me a while to get used to the sand greens again but just a great day They do a fantastic job of looking after us.” Next up: Warren Golf Club Legends Pro-Am on Wednesday Pilkadaris prevails in six-hole playoff in PNG It took six playoff holes for Terry Pilkadaris to prevail over Jason Norris and claim the $100,000 PNG Senior Open at Lae Golf Club The Sunday showdown between the two form players of the PGA Legends Tour didn’t fail to disappoint Pilkadaris found himself trailing Norris by two strokes after just three holes Pilkadaris steadied and when Norris made double-bogey at the par-5 ninth the pair headed into the back nine level at 3-under par Birdies at 10 and 12 gave Norris the ascendancy once again an advantage he extended to two strokes with birdie at the par-3 17th Pilkadaris made birdie for the first time all week at the par-5 18th and when Norris missed a short putt for par and the tournament Both players had their chances – Pilkadaris saw a two-foot putt for the win dive left on him – before the Victorian claimed his third victory of the year “I didn’t have a good front nine – hit a couple of loose shots and made bogeys – and then back nine was really steady giving myself chances and then ‘Norrey’ made a mistake on 18 to let me in and so I sort of capitalised there.” The two form players of the 2025 PGA Legends Tour season to date will go toe-to-toe in the final round of the $100,000 PNG Senior Open at Lae Golf Club Terry Pilkadaris will start the third and final round with a slender one-stroke advantage at 6-under par from recent Murray Bridge Legends Pro-Am winner Jason Norris Given there is a four-stroke gap to Round 1 leader Carl Smedley (75) and Grahame Stinson (69) it is hard to see anyone other than Pilkadaris or Norris coming out on top Trailing Smedley by two at the start of Round 2 Pilkadaris made it back-to-back 68s as Norris stormed into outright second with an equal tournament best 5-under 66 tree-lined course and I kept it on the fairway most of the time and then just hit it on the green and give yourself the opportunities,” said Pilkadaris “I holed a nice putt on the ninth from about 20 feet and then hit a couple close to about four or five feet I think I had one three-putt but apart from that it was all pretty cruisy.” Adam Henwood birdied the final hole to tie John Onions after an untimely lost ball on his penultimate hole at the QUBE Logistics Legends Pro-Am at Aston Hills Golf Club Perplexed that a ball he expected to finish just left of the fairway at the par-5 sixth could not be found Henwood headed to the seventh tee on the back of a bogey and somewhat hot under the collar He ripped driver down the 315-metre par 4 to leave himself just 40 metres in very nearly holing his pitch shot that would have secured an outright win a tap-in birdie was enough to match Onions’ round of 4-under 65 for a share of victory one clear of John Wade (66) with David Diaz (67) outright fourth “I got off to a pretty ordinary start,” said Onions “I hit it in the lake on the first hole but managed to make par out of there “I’ve been putting really well and had a run through the middle of the round where I burned 4-under for three holes “A couple of mistakes coming in but I managed to save something with a putter.” “I nearly holed the second shot,” Henwood said of his approach into the final hole but in my mind I was so upset might be the right word and only had like a 40-metre pitch and nearly holed it “I was lucky it didn’t hit the pin actually because then it would’ve finished somewhere not great But just left me a little tap in which was good.” Walters’ winning ways continue at Glenn Joyner Pro-Am Euan Walters paid tribute to the PGA Legends Tour legacy left by the late Glenn Joyner after taking out the Metro Homes Glenn Joyner Memorial Legends Pro-Am Walters’ round of 6-under 64 at Thaxted Park Golf Course was enough to finish one clear of John Onions (65) his second straight PGA Legends Tour victory Trading two birdies with a bogey to be 1-under after three holes Walters kept a clean card for the remainder of his round he turned in 3-under and then picked up further birdies at one Onions birdied his second-to-last hole – the par-3 eighth – but had to settle for second after making par at the par-4 ninth Peter Lonard had eight birdies in his round of 4-under 66 to snare third Murray Lott and Simon Pope tied for fourth with rounds of 67 “I’ve known Glenn for probably 30 years,” said Walters “We used to play on tour against one another so obviously it was sad to see Glenn pass away a couple of years ago “The other side of the coin is that I think he actually played some of his best golf towards the end “He got to fulfil some of his dreams and was very successful on the Legends tour and obviously he’s part of the reason why a lot of these events continue on I had to make a lot of changes in my swing and stuff like that but very grateful for the win “I know it’s not going to last forever A run of three birdies in four holes provided Euan Walters the foundation to go one better than last year and claim an outright victory at the Living Choice Flagstaff Hill Legends Pro-Am at Flagstaff Hill Golf Club Joint winner with Jason Norris and Nicholas Robb 12 months ago Walters’ early hot streak gave him enough of an edge to absorb a three-putt bogey on his final hole for a round of 3-under 67 a one-stroke win Murray Lott (68) birdied his final hole to claim outright second Michael Long (69) and Peter Brown (69) tied third Quick quotes“I tied with a couple of others last year “It’s been a while since I’ve had a win “I’ve been playing pretty good but not really finishing it off but played really well today but fortunate enough to get the job done.” The vagaries of foursomes once again came to the fore resulting in joint winners of the SA PGA Senior Foursomes Championship at The Vines Golf Club of Reynella A number of groups had chances to claim the outright victory over the final few holes yet in the end two could not be separated Mike Zilko and Guy Wall sharing top spot with Brendan Chant and Simon Pope Zilko and Wall and Chant and Pope both returned scores of 1-over 72 to be declared joint winners two strokes clear of Brad Burns and Bryan Milligan “Would’ve probably been nice to win outright but ‘Chanty’ stuffed up a bit and I stuffed up a bit so we’ll give it both ways,” said Pope it was struggling about 20 years ago and now with the couch covering it’s awesome “Well done to the golf club and thanks to them for letting us play.” Leading scoresT1        Mike Zilko/Guy Wall                 72T1        Brendan Chant/Simon Pope     723          Brad Burns/Bryan Milligan        744          Glenn Roberts/Wayne Rogers  78 Defending champion Jason Norris bettered the course record set by Murray Lott 24 hours earlier to claim a second straight victory at the Spry Civil Construction Murray Bridge GC Legends Pro-Am With two new holes in play at Murray Bridge this year Lott’s 5-under 65 in Round 1 established a new course record Norris going one better on day two with a superb 6-under 64 Victorious at Murray Bridge two years ago – and a course where he played a lot when based in Adelaide – Norris posted 9-under for two rounds to finish five strokes clear of Lott and Peter Lonard Four birdies in the space of five holes on the front nine got Norris moving in the right direction the lure of Lott’s new course low mark encouraging him to push on through the back nine “I forgot about the new holes in the new course record when I heard Murray had it,” Norris said “It actually inspired me today when I was 4-under early I started struggling but worked hard and made a couple of putts coming in.” but it’s good fun to try and beat that but it doesn’t mean anything around here You can easily make a double or triple around this place It’s sort of my second club when I used to live here so I know a lot of the club members here and it was just a great day.” Peter Lonard picked apart the par 5s and came away a two-shot winner at the inaugural Maffra Legends Pro-Am at Maffra Golf Club Playing the Maffra layout for the first time Lonard birdied consecutive par 5s at four and five and then added a third in succession at the par-4 sixth He made it a clean sweep of the three-shotters with further birdies at 14 and 18 in his round of 6-under 66 It was enough to finish two strokes clear of the field David Fearns and Tim Elliott all sharing second at 4-under players speaking effusively during presentations about the presentation and playability of the putting surfaces presented by Maffra Golf Club Never played here before,” said Lonard of his round “There were a few little doglegs there and I probably got away with a few and got a bit lucky but I played pretty solidly “I’ve played pretty well the past week or so so it was nice to finish it off.” Birdie putts slid by and par putts dropped late to leave four players tied at the top at The Big Garage Bairnsdale Golf Club Legends Pro-Am at Bairnsdale Golf Club One of the best presented regional courses in Victoria was  lauded by every player who teed it up none more so than the four who finished locked together at 3-under 68 at day’s end The resurgent Brad Burns holed a par putt from just inside 30 feet to stay at 3-under David Crawford let an opportunity slip on his penultimate hole John Onions holed a pitch shot for eagle at the par-4 fifth and David McKenzie birdied his final hole – the par-5 18th – to also join the winner’s circle The quartet finished one clear of another group of four players Neale Smith and Paul Griffiths all posting 2-under 69 “I got off to a pretty poor start,” said Onions I holed a pitch shot for eagle which got me to a couple under and then after that “Tthere’s a lot of stuff to make it hard to play but it’s in great condition,” said McKenzie “I don’t know how many times I could count playing down here the par 5 going down the hill,” Crawford said of his chance to win outright Thought if I get 4-under going up the last I thought I got a chance of taking it out outright “It was a fantastic golf course and the golf course was set up beautifully.” “It’s quite strong actually,” Burns said of the Bairnsdale layout you’ve got to shape the ball around the corners and if you don’t drive it well you’re going to have heaps Stellar putting displays have earned David McKenzie and Michael Long a share of victory at the Gardiners Run Legends Pro-Am Two experienced players on international seniors tours McKenzie and Long both hailed the quality of the golf course – in particular the putting surfaces – as they each shot 7-under 65 at Gardiners Run Golf Course McKenzie actually played with the course superintendent and credited his win for not doing “anything stupid” McKenzie and Long finished three shots clear of Tim Elliott (68) with a four-way tie for fourth between Mark Sheppard “It’s been a tough week actually,” said Long you wouldn’t have thought I was going to do that today “It hasn’t felt that far away and then today it just turned around “Course is great; it’s improving all the time Obviously I’m going to say the greens are great – I did hole a lot of putts – but the course is maturing and just getting better and better.” “I got off to a nice little start with a couple of birdies early,” said McKenzie “Made all the putts that I needed to and didn’t really do anything stupid “It seems like it’s really easy when you just don’t miss anything and don’t do anything stupid.” Brad Burns birdied his final hole as Peter Lonard narrowly missed doing the same as the pair shared victory at the Undercover Roasters Legends Pro-Am at Club Mandalay Golf Course Burns and Lonard separated themselves from the rest of the field with rounds of 6-under 66 but couldn’t be split from each other One-over after two bogeys early in his round Burns made eagle at the par-3 17th but needed birdie at the par-5 second to get to 6-under Lonard was 7-under on his round when he made bogey at the par-3 seventh and then just missed his birdie try at his final hole Grahame Stinson went bogey free in his round of 3-under 68 to snare third one clear of Euan Walters and Bryan Milligan “The members are fantastic and the greenkeepers do a great job,” said Burns “I had seven birdies and an eagle and a couple of three-putts unfortunately “That’s the best I’ve played in quite some time “I’ve had the putting woes for the last four or five rounds but today I actually started actually holing some putts again.” and I just misjudged the wind,” said Lonard of his only bogey of the round “I thought the wind was into me and apparently it wasn’t “I had a chance for birdie on the last from about 10 I hit a couple of them and the greens were magnificent.” Queenslander David Fearns broke a six-year drought in fine fashion with a two-stroke victory at the Higgins Coatings Portsea Legends Pro-Am at Portsea Golf Club Not since 2019 at Concord and Pymble had Fearns found himself in the winner’s circle but a hot start provided the foundation to a round of 4-under 67 two clear of Euan Walters (69) and Peter Lonard (69) Fearns caught fire with three straight birdies from the par-4 first and then countered a bogey on six with a birdie on eight Further birdies at 14 and 15 built enough of a buffer that a closing bogey was little more than a blip “I’m really happy every time we come to Portsea,” said Fearns Nigel Lane shrugged off some indifferent form and a shaky start to take out the Settlers Run Legends Pro-Am at Settlers Run Golf and Country Club Lane made a bright start with a birdie at the par-4 fourth but dropped back to 1-over with consecutive bogeys at five and six It would be just a temporary setback though as he responded with birdies at seven and nine on his way to a round of 5-under 67 and a two-stroke victory On the back of his win at Settlers Run the day prior Scott Barr backed up with a round of 3-under 69 to finish second “That was about two feet away,” Lane said of his shot into 18 to set up birdie That was probably actually the shot of the day “Struck the ball really nicely today actually The last few days I couldn’t hit it hard at all but today I found something and it went straight at it most of the time.” A timely win on home soil will fuel Scott Barr to attack opportunities on offer through the PGA TOUR Champions in the US Denied a full 2025 card in heartbreaking circumstances at Q School in December Barr will tee it up in Monday qualifiers on the back of a one-stroke win at the Southern Golf Club Legends Pro-Am A four-time winner on the PGA Legends Tour in 2024 Barr found something in his swing and navigated Southern Golf Club’s immaculate putting surfaces to finish one clear of Grahame Stinson (69) with Simon Pope (70) outright third aware that trying to play his way into tournaments will come with its challenges “There could be some mental damage going through that so I’m really trying to strategise how I don’t throw all my eggs in one basket “I’ll just do it at a pace that I feel confident with.” so I was in the race from the word go,” said Barr “I did a bit of work on the range yesterday and figured something out with my swing “I felt in control of the ball most of the day with my hitting; I hit it very well actually They were fast; super-fast.“You had to keep your nerve I holed a couple of mid-range eight-footers but I did blunder a few times which is a habit that I’m going to start to do I think I need to do that just to know where you are in the field so you can finish off rounds better.” Hobbled Isherwood victorious at The Valley His tortured feet almost failed him but Michael Isherwood was able to snare his first Legends Tour win in close to a year at The Valley Legends Pro-Am on the Mornington Peninsula The new shoes that Isherwood wore on Tuesday did enough damage to consider not playing at all but the use of a cart enabled the 53-year-old to shoot 5-under 62 for a one-stroke win Teeing off from the 14th hole alongside Scott Ford Isherwood was 4-under through seven holes courtesy of birdies at 15 Eagle at the par-4 eighth countered bogeys at five and nine birdies at 10 and 11 enough to build a winning advantage ahead of the in-form Terry Pilkadaris (63) with West Australian Brendan Chant (64) outright third I managed to wear a brand new pair of shoes on Tuesday and completely destroyed my heel,” said Isherwood you’ll realise you rip your whole foot off I don’t think I would’ve even made it around “Pretty happy that I managed to grab a win out of it considering I didn’t even think I’d be able to walk around.” Stars were out in force yet Terry Pilkadaris proved again why he is the hottest player on the PGA Legends Tour with a one-stroke win at the Sheen Panel Service Legends Pro-Am Portarlington Golf Club is always a popular stop on the Legends Tour calendar with the likes of Peter Lonard and PGA TOUR Champions players Richard Green and David McKenzie thrilling Portarlington members with their presence made an honorary member after making an almost mythical ace on a par-4 for albatross just carrying the front bunker and scurrying up the green before hitting the pin and dropping for his first career albatross at the 241-metre 13th I’ll take that every time!” beamed McKenzie Pilkadaris compiled a round of 5-under 67 with six birdies and a lone bogey to finish one clear of Lonard (68) with Green sharing third with Tim Elliott at 3-under 69 course was in really good condition,” said Pilkadaris “If you hit the ball in the right position managed to make birdies on those and consolidate the score “I’ve been doing some work with a putting specialist in the US I’m bringing him out – he arrives on Thursday – and he’s going to help me with my putting and also do some clinics and lessons for anyone “I think I had the yips and he’s starting to fix that Now I’m starting to hole some putts and it’s going along nicely.” That was until today at Portarlington when the Victorian drilled a driver 241 metres for the almost mythical ace on a par-4 during the Sheen Panel Service Legends Pro-Am on the PGA Legends Tour McKenzie’s drive just carried the front bunker and scurried up the green before hitting the pin and dropping for his first career albatross the 57-year-old thought it had landed in the sand when a puff of sand arose as his ball landed It wasn’t until the crowd erupted as he approached the green – and he was urged to do a “shooey” in celebration – that he realised the magic that had unfolded “There’s no way I’m doing a shooey,” McKenzie said as he guzzled a drink in a far more customary manner to celebrate “That’s unbelievable … and turns a terrible day into a much better one “I hit a driver because I was a bit cranky so that’s why I wasn’t hitting 3-wood “I saw sand come up and (thought nothing of it) estimated that it was his eighth hole-in-one McKenzie tipped a casual five points into his team’s stableford balance and also won 20 points for the bullseye-style competition on offer for the second shot on that hole in one of the events separate competitions He was later presented with an honorary Portarlington Golf Club membership for his history-making shot Leading scores1 Terry Pilkadaris-5 67 Legends Tour: Pilkadaris masterful at Moama He spends much of his time coaching these days but some tips from American ‘putting theorist’ Geoff Mangum propelled Terry Pilkadaris to a commanding win at the Moama Masters Rich River A second eagle on his round at the final hole saw Pilkadaris earn a share of the Round 1 lead with fellow Victorian Shane Johnson at 7-under 65 at Rich River Golf Club They had a two-stroke buffer but it was Pilkadaris who kept the foot to the floor backing it up with a 6-under 66 for a 13-under total and six-stroke win Reigning PGA Legends Tour Order of Merit winner Andre Stolz finished outright second at 7-under par with 66-year-old Michael Harwood winding back the clock to snare third “I’ve been doing some work online with an American guy I’m actually bringing him out next week and we’ve just been working hard on holing putts I haven’t been holing any putts for the last four or five years “Hit some good iron shots and drove it well and all adds up to a good score “I was a bit nervous because the scores weren’t getting updated and I saw Andre (Stolz) was playing nicely “The scores hadn’t updated and he was on the 13th hole I’m trying to work out what I am and what have you but I hit some nice shots coming in and capitalised.” Queensland pair Brad Burns and Chris Taylor have teamed up for a second win in three years at the ‘The Jack Harris & Brian Twite’ Victorian PGA Seniors Foursomes Championship Played at Rich River Golf Club’s East Course ahead of the $30,000 Moama Masters Burns and Taylor bounced back from a shaky start to post 4-under 68 for a four-stroke win The winners in 2023 and tied for fourth 12 months ago the Queenslanders rode Taylor’s hot putter over their final nine holes for a comfortable win ahead of Andre Stolz and David Crawford “We started off fairly unsteady,” conceded Burns “We three-putted the first hole so we were 1-over after the first nine holes “Chris hit a lot of good putts that didn’t go in and then the last nine we holed a few putts and shot 5-under “Chris is a great ball-striker and when he gets that putter hot “We just gel on the golf course and it’s a pleasure to play with him all the time.” A birdie-birdie finish has clinched Guy Wall a second win on the PGA Legends Tour season at The White Glove Mover Legends Pro-Am at Albert Park Golf Course in Melbourne Victorious at the Waihi Legends Pro-Am on the New Zealand swing Wall shot 5-under 65 at Albert Park to edge Peter Brown (66) with tournament host David Diaz tied for third along with Andre Stolz Peter Woodward and Simon Pope at 3-under par Wall credited his work on the putting green with coach John Serhan and time spent using Keiser gym equipment in the off-season for his strong start to the year Starting his round with a par at the par-5 11th Wall advanced up the leaderboard with birdies at 12 An errant tee shot led to a lone bogey at the par-4 fifth but he responded with a birdie on six and then two closing birdies at nine and 10 to finish one-stroke clear “I’ve been working hard on the putter in our off-season,” said Wall “Changed putters to an even roll and putted awesome “We were talking coming down the last couple with David Hill and he said I’m just going to try and hit the best shots possible over the last couple of holes and see what happens A new force is emerging on the PGA Legends Tour with Kiwi Dominic Barson winning for a second time this season in dominant fashion at the St Clair Legends Pro-Am in Dunedin A three-stroke winner at the Pegasus Legends Pro-Am Barson shot 7-under 64 at St Clair Golf Club to win by five strokes from in-form Queenslander Murray Lott (69) with three players sharing third place at even par Fifth at Legends Tour Q School last January Barson joined the Tour late last year and had top-10 finishes at Moss Vale and Pymble He got through First Stage of PGA TOUR Champions School in the US and now looks set to challenge for the Order of Merit title in 2025 Barson made the perfect start to his round at St Clair 18 and one to be 5-under through six holes He backed up a birdie at 5 with three on the trot from the eighth hole to reach 9-under par bogeys at two of his final three holes reducing the winning margin by two A birdie on his final hole has seen Victorian Paul Powell match Murray Lott’s total of 3-under 69 and share victory at the Gleniti Legends Pro-Am near Timaru on New Zealand’s South Island 17 and one before dropping back to 2-under with a bogey at the par-4 third After three birdies and three bogeys in his opening seven holes Lott started the front nine at Gleniti Golf Club even par but peeled off birdies at two six and nine to be 4-under and two strokes ahead But Lott’s bogey on 10 and Powell’s birdie at the same hole saw the pair finished locked together at 3-under Lott and Powell both finished one stroke clear of a quartet of players at 2-under Kiwi Dominic Barson displayed the type of form that got him into Final Stage of PGA TOUR Champions Q School to take out the Pegasus Legends Pro-Am at Pegasus Golf Club near Christchurch The third individual event of the New Zealand swing to kick off the 2025 PGA Legends Tour season Barson made it a win for the locals with a superb round of 6-under 66 The 50-year-old made it through to Final Stage last November by finishing tied for 15th at First Stage level with Australian Brendan Jones who went on to secure his card at Final Stage in Arizona Although Barson was not successful in earning full playing rights for 2025 the experience appeared to pay off as he bounced back from an early bogey to post five birdies and an eagle to finish three clear of Brisbane’s Murray Lott (69) There was a three-way tie for third with Waihi Legends Pro-Am winner Guy Wall tied with Brad Burns and Martin Pettigrew The Charles-Nagle Trophy remains in Australian hands after an enthralling contest that went down to the final match at Harewood Golf Club With Sir Bob Charles on hand to present the winning team with the trophy the Aussies got off to a fast start as Brad Burns and David Fearns completed a 5&4 win over Dominic Barson and Martin Pettigrew The Kiwis got a point on the board thanks to Dean Sipson and Craig Mitchell’s 4&2 win over Ben Jackson and Roland Baglin the match square at 1.5 points each when Guy Wall and Murray Lott halved their match with Dell Bain and Peter Giles The final result would hinge on the last match Scott Ford and John Onions prevailing over Malcolm Wells and Mike Gainsford 3&2 to secure the win for the Australians Dominic Barson/Martin Pettigrew (NZ) 5&4Dean Sipson/Craig Mitchell (NZ) def Ben Jackson/Roland Baglin 4&2Guy Wall/Murray Lott halved Dell Bain/Peter Giles (NZ)Scott Ford/John Onions def Massie stuns with NZ PGA Seniors Pro-Am win Two superb rounds have earned Queenslander Chris Massie a maiden PGA Legends Tour win at the Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools NZ PGA Seniors Pro-Am Championship at Hamner Springs Golf Club Massie opened up a two-stroke lead with a round of 6-under 62 on day one and then followed that up with a 4-under 64 in Round 2 for a 10-under total Massie’s best finish in his rookie season was a tie for 13th at Tin Can Bay but he showed few signs of nerves as he held off Murray Lott (64-63) by one stroke with Brad Burns (64-66) and Dominic Barson (64-66) three shots further back in third Pymble’s Guy Wall made the perfect start to the 2025 PGA Legends Tour season with a two-stroke victory at the Expol Waihi Legends Pro-Am at Waihi Golf Club It is the third year in succession that the Legends Tour season has kicked off on New Zealand’s North Island and the second time in three years that Wall has won the season-opener Wall shot 6-under 66 at Waihi to claim victory from West Australian Rob Farley (68) with Kiwi pair Dell Bain and Dominic Barson sharing third with rounds of 2-under 70 For the latest news and scores on Australian golf Subscribe © 2025 PGA of Australia | Powered by Advertise with us Everyone may be wrapped up in KNOTFEST coverage but we also went on a covert mission to find the best alternative acts at everyone's favourite reason to be in Wollongong; Yours and Owls Festival While there was a diverse range of musical genres represented the heavier acts were the standout performances From Day 2 kicking off with hardcore act LOW who got the crowd fly kicking across the mountain stage to Battlesnake closing Day 1 with the most theatrical energetic performance of the weekend Alternative scene favs Bodyjar brought a little pop punk to the mix The Kooks were glorious and Slowly Slowly had us swooning all set But of course everyone's highlight (regardless of what kind of music you listen to) was national treasures The Veronicas; who despite being in the middle of the day had the entire attendance at their stage screaming along to every word of every song and the crowd was completely captivated with them by the time they finished it off with the national anthem Yours and Owls are truly the champions of the mixed bill Photo Gallery by Bree Vane. Insta: @mindtheweathervane. Please credit Wall of Sound and Bree Vane if you repost. eight bars and ocean views in the "most iconic place in Wollongong" Sudoku and TriviaAll articles from the other regional websites in your areaContinueYours and Owls have announced the set times and site map for this year's festival Ocean and Day of Dance) will be backdropped by water with the Flagstaff Point Lighthouse located inside the festival site Denzel Curry and the Goo Goo Dolls will take to the Harbour stage on Saturday night while The Kooks and DJ Elderbrook close the festival on Sunday Yours and Owls sitemap 2025. Picture suppliedFestival co-founder Ben Tillman previously told the Mercury holding the festival at Flagstaff Hill would be "really special" "You can't beat this - and I don't really think you can beat this festival site in the world," he said Yours and Owls was last staged at the University of Wollongong but due to the festival moving to March and right into the middle of orientation week for the uni a new venue had to be found Pictures suppliedCouncil approvalWollongong City Council has said the festival is "expected" to issue an interim license by "early next week" after considering a traffic management plan on Tuesday In a community update the council said a "final approval for the event will be issued in the days leading up to its bump in" "Wollongong City Council is a big supporter and a keen advocate for seeing a diverse range of events on offer in our city and we're looking forward to seeing the festival on Flagstaff Hill next month "We're comfortable with the progression of the Yours and Owls event planning and are excited about the opportunity to see another high-quality event on Flagstaff Hill." Today's top stories curated by our news team. Also includes evening update. Going out or staying in? Find out what's on. Get the latest property and development news here. Find out what's happening in local business. CNN and the BBC World Service which is copyright and cannot be reproduced AEST = Australian Eastern Standard Time which is 10 hours ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) Flagstaff Hill and the Warrnambool and District Artists Society have teamed up to present a new exhibition in the recently renovated Alexander Farncombe Gallery: Sea The exhibition will feature 80 artworks created especially for this event including two by Flagstaff Hill volunteer and Warrnambool and District Artists Society member Janet Steed The long-time Warrnambool landscape painter has been volunteering at Flagstaff Hill for about a year and she was excited to see Flagstaff Hill and the Society come together for this exhibition “I wasn’t expecting the two loves to overlap because everyone at the Merri View Gallery (home of the Society) loves painting the seascapes and the cliffs and the rocks so I knew we’d get lots of lovely different choices.” Her paintings are of Thunder Point and Moyjil You don’t have to go far to find somewhere beautiful in Warrnambool,” she said Flagstaff Hill Collections Curator Justin Croft said that he was very happy with the response from the artists after beginning discussions about the exhibition last year sea and shipwrecks is to capture the ever-changing beauty of western Victoria’s coastal landscape and the essence of coastal living mysteries of the deep blue sea and enduring tales of seafaring adventures and maritime history and I think the artist have well and truly taken that theme on,” he said our role is as keepers of community history and to become important partners with community organisations to develop relationships to achieve mutually beneficial goals which help form better communities “We’ve had over 80 artworks submitted which I’ve been told is a record for the Society We only managed to get 70 up across the three rooms so in three months I’ll do a rotation the artworks will be available for purchase.” Warrnambool and District Artists Society President Margaret Brodie said that she was pleased to see the works on display in the new space at Flagstaff Hill “It is a great honour to be the first artists group to exhibit,” she said “The members’ work offers a range of styles and ability and I hope you enjoy the display “Thank you to Justin for having the vision and the drive to make this exhibition a reality and for inviting our group to exhibit in your gallery.” The exhibition is now open and will be on display for six months Flagstaff Hill is home to Australia’s richest collection of shipwreck artefacts housed within a 19th century replica village with sweeping views of Lady Bay Flagstaff Hill averaged 4.5 out of five stars based on more than 1400 Google Reviews The Warrnambool and District Artists Society hosts regular classes in a variety of mediums The Merri View Gallery is open on weekends from 12pm until 4pm with free entry You can find out more about the Society at https://warrnamboolartsociety.com.au More than 120 classic cars will converge on Flagstaff Hill on Wednesday March 20 as part of a four-day rally The first car in the rally will arrive at Flagstaff Hill at 7am and among the cars brands featured will be Bugatti alongside Australian classics including the Holden Sandman For car lovers this will be a feast and anyone heading to Flagstaff Hill between 7am and 9am to check out the cars can also buy a bacon and egg roll and a coffee Council is supporting the event via the 2023/2024 Festival and Events Fund “We’re thrilled to have Warrnambool included on the itinerary and Flagstaff Hill provides a great stop for motorists and an opportunity for motoring enthusiasts to check out some rare cars that have been beautifully maintained or restored,” Warrnambool Mayor Cr Ben Blain said “At the community breakfast people can chat with the drivers check out what’s under the hood and witness the spectacle as the cars depart.” Targa Classica organiser Andrew Lawson said the rally would cover more than 1,100km and showcase the Goldfields Great Ocean Road and the Macedon Ranges.  “We wanted to create an event that celebrated cars and also Victoria’s regional centres,” Mr Lawson said.  “With direct links to Italian heritage through the event we feel it’s important to show off the highlights of our amazing state in keeping with the tradition and foundations of the event’s Italian connection.” was inspired by his own experience of competing in Australia as well as in Italy at the Targa Florio in Sicily and the Mille Miglia.  The Targa Classica (the only event like it in the Southern Hemisphere) takes its inspiration from the iconic classic car events of Italy - a much-loved tradition since 1906 and Targa Florio are considered the pinnacle for classic car enthusiasts Flagstaff Hill is throwing open its doors to locals with anyone from the Warrnambool City Council area able to enjoy free daytime entry until Christmas locals can also enjoy free access to the Tales of the Shipwreck Coast sound and light show when they attend with at least one paying visitor Warrnambool City Council CEO Andrew Mason encouraged locals to take the opportunity to rediscover Flagstaff Hill “Members of the community can provide feedback on the Flagstaff Hill Vision and Opportunities Plan until November 21 so this could be a good way to reacquaint yourself with Flagstaff Hill before completing the survey,” he said about a third of the visitors to Warrnambool are people who are visiting friends and family So when they are asking for recommendations of what to see and do we want locals to have a fresh view of Flagstaff Hill in their mind “Flagstaff Hill has an average rating of 4.5 out of five stars based on over 1300 Google reviews So while Council is looking at the future vision and direction of Flagstaff Hill visitors are telling us that there’s still a lot to enjoy about the venue today “So this is a great opportunity for locals to come and see Flagstaff Hill first-hand Check out the amazing collection of shipwreck artefacts including the Loch Ard Peacock valued at over $4 million Climb to the top of the 19th century lighthouse Visit the tearooms and try the best scones in Warrnambool or bring a picnic and enjoy the sweeping views of Lady Bay.” Residents will be identified as local by the postcode on their drivers licence or suitable identification accompanied by a utility bill Children of patrons will identified by being indicated on a Medicare card.  A new 700-metre shared-use path in Flagstaff Hill was officially opened yesterday connecting two much-loved trails and reserves for the first time Made possible with the support of Erin Thompson the new Minkarra Park Link Path has unlocked an area between the north and south sections of Minkarra Park creating an uninterrupted trail from Black Road to Chandlers Hill Road City of Onkaparinga Mayor Moira Were joined Erin Thompson Premier Peter Malinauskas and local residents at the new trail yesterday to celebrate its much-anticipated completion “Minkarra’s northern and southern sections contain walking trails and extensive bushland providing a haven for wildlife and collectively the park has long held a special place in our community's heart,” she said these sections have been separated by the Flagstaff Hill Golf Club course which hindered safe and convenient travel between them “The new Minkarra Park Link Path has successfully bridged this gap integrating with existing trails in each reserve and creating more opportunities for pedestrians and cyclists to stay healthy “Thoughtful planning of the trail’s route coupled with initiatives like weed control will also significantly contribute to the area’s biodiversity better linking up areas of habitat for wildlife “A huge thankyou to the state government Peter Malinauskas and Erin Thompson for their advocacy and the $1 million in funding through the Communities Infrastructure Grants Program “A special shout-out to the Rotary Club for hosting the opening event’s BBQ and for their tireless dedication and advocacy for Minkarra Park and its trail network over the years heartfelt thanks to the Flagstaff Hill Golf Club committee for their cooperation and patience throughout the planning and implementation of these transformative works.” The new path can be accessed by entering the existing trail in the north from either Black Road or Reservoir Drive or from the existing trail in the south from Manning Road which have eliminated the need for stairs and allowed better access to more people The trail also includes safety fencing alongside one of the golf course tee-off sections and revegetation works with native plants that will commence in June Scenes from the new trail and the official opening on Sunday 14 April Warrnambool residents are encouraged to have a say on a proposed new vision for Flagstaff Hill Council this week voted to release Flagstaff Hill Re-Imagined: Vision and Opportunities Plan The plan describes a preferred option for the future use of the prominent site that includes public and private investment in activities that could include a geothermal/wellness facility a First Nations experience and hospitality and dining attractions that could include a distillery or brewery has operated as a visitor attraction since the 1970s,” Warrnambool Mayor Cr Ben Blain said “Over the past decade we have seen attendances fall away despite investment and changes including an upgrade to the sound and light show “Earlier this year Council consulted with the community and key stakeholders about the future of the site and how we could make the best use of it “We had more than 500 responses and there was a clear appetite for change “It’s a magnificent site with an amazing view across to Lady Bay There’s so much potential there but we need to change our approach in order to make it a more viable proposition “Council is encouraging all residents to go to www.yoursaywarrnambool.com.au where you can read the new plan and let us know what you think the future of Flagstaff Hill should be.” Flagstaff Hill has had its busiest four-day period in recent memory that wasn’t tied to a major event such as New Year’s Eve A total of 2054 people visited the museum and village between September 22 and 25 This is more than double the corresponding period in 2019 (982) and 2018 (837) keeping in mind that these were three day long weekends instead of four with 656 visitors – making it the biggest day for the award winning attraction - outside of New Year’s Eve and Easter Day on the Hill celebrations - since at least 2014 but most likely much longer The Tales of the Shipwreck Coast sound and light show sold out for all four nights over the long weekend too The adjoining Warrnambool Visitor Information Centre was also very busy - with enquires on par with the already busier than usual Easter period this year This continues a trend of increased visitation numbers at Flagstaff Hill in recent times Warrnambool Mayor Cr Vicki Jellie said that it was great to see so many people learning more about the museum’s rich collection of shipwreck artefacts and exploring the village “The four day long weekend was incredibly busy for Warrnambool which was terrific news for our local businesses across the hospitality retail and tourism sectors especially,” she said “Looking at Flagstaff Hill not just this weekend “It’s a credit to the hardworking staff and volunteers at Flagstaff Hill and the Visitor Information Centre who provide an experience that is really valued by visitors to Warrnambool - Flagstaff Hill has an average rating of 4.5 out of five stars on popular travel website TripAdvisor based on over 900 reviews now is a great time to visit with lots of hands-on activities to get involved in as part of the holiday program “There’s always something new to see from the museum collection too and it’s an area staff have been working hard on recently with their research and cataloguing This has been recognised with Flagstaff Hill being shortlisted for the Victorian Collections Award for Excellence in Museum Cataloguing For more information about the attractions and activities visit www.flagstaffhill.com While it may not get as much attention as some of the more touristy stops along the way, this coastal city at the end of the Great Ocean Road is well worth checking out food and wine—or all of the above—you won’t run out of things to do in Warrnambool Here are ten of the best to add to your trip list The westernmost stop on the Great Victorian Bathing Trail, Deep Blue Hot Springs is the ideal spot to wind down after a long drive along the Great Ocean Road Wind down after a long drive at Deep Blue Hot Springs Slip into a mineral bath and let the geothermal waters relieve your tired muscles chill out in a sensory cave enhanced with trippy colour therapy lights and find bliss under the waterfall in the rainforest pool – this place warrants a repeat visit Unleash your inner Frida Kahlo by booking in to attend a workshop at the Warrnambool School of Art. From contemporary watercolour painting to hard-edge acrylics and mosaics there are classes and workshops covering a wide range of artistic styles here experienced artists with plenty of insights to share On a warm summer’s day, the Warrnambool Botanic Gardens is a peaceful spot to beat the heat Set up a picnic rug under one of the massive Moreton Bay Figs to enjoy a shady alfresco lunch or sit by the peaceful pond to watch the ducks Designed by renowned landscape architect William Guilfoyle (designer of the Melbourne Botanic Gardens) this lovely spot has been a fixture in Warrnambool since the 1800s and still delights people of all ages Warrnambool Botanic Gardens is a peaceful spot to beat the heat If you love getting out and about on two wheels, then you’ll be pleased to know that Warrnambool has some ripper cycling trails to explore. Hire a bike from Café Cycles Company, then ride your day away on some of the city’s trails If you’ve got plenty of time and energy to burn then complete a return journey on the scenic Warrnambool to Port Fairy Rail Trail (it will take you most of the day Explore the scenic trails on a bike from Café Cycles Company The 7.5km Foreshore Promenade stretching from Breakwater to Logans Beach has showstopping ocean views which you’ll have to share with walkers joggers and other cyclists on this popular route Stop by Logan’s Beach for a quick rest If you love nothing more than digging through crates of vinyl records and coveting Australian pottery from the 70s, be sure to visit Fletcher Jones Market when you’re in town Home to thousands of vintage and retro items this huge indoor antiques and collectables market covers 3,000 square metres of floor space so be prepared to spend some time fossicking through many stalls jam-packed with memorabilia from years gone by If you have ever wanted to learn more about the history of the Shipwreck Coast, this is the place for you. A maritime museum and village which arguably holds Australia’s most significant shipwreck artefact collection Flagstaff Hill is a sprawling outdoor monument to the hardy people who made a living here more than a century ago Learn more about the history of the Shipwreck Coast at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village climb the spiral staircase of the lighthouse check out the 80-pound cannon and marvel at a super rare highly valued Minton peacock statue salvaged from a shipwreck many years ago Climb the lighthouse’s spiral staircase Fun for all the family can be found at this large, council-run outdoor adventure park. The ideal spot to spend a fun day in the outdoors without breaking the bank, there are plenty of things for kids to get stuck into here including a huge slide, flying fox and a maze. You can even hire mini motorboats to take out on the lake shady areas and barbecues means you can bring your own lunch and snacks to enjoy throughout the day too If you’re looking for something to do at night, check out the Lighthouse Theatre’s program Throughout the year you’ll find everything from plays to musicals tribute acts and more at this heritage theatre that has been revamped in recent years but has lost none of its charm Pop by the Lighthouse Theatre to catch a musical There’s much more to Warrnambool than beaches and maritime history; there’s a thriving arts scene too then be sure to hit the galleries while you’re visiting Step into Warrnambool Art Gallery to immerse in its thriving art scene Warrnambool Art Gallery (or ‘the WAG’) is open seven days a week and houses an impressive collection of paintings and works on paper by influential Australian artists like Cressida Campbell Meanwhile, the F Project is a volunteer-run arts organisation that runs exhibitions throughout the year and does great work fostering local creative talent to flourish.  Staffed by volunteers the gallery and shop are open to visitors Wednesday to Sunday Warrnambool Art Gallery houses an impressive collection of paintings Keen to get out on the water? Book a tour with Mako Ocean Adventures to explore the local marine parks along the coast Many parts of the Shipwreck Coast are only visible by boat so a trip with Mako Ocean Adventures will enable you to see some of the spectacular rock formations and caves you can’t see from land Time your visit right and you might spot some dolphins or migrating humpback whales too Held on the first and third Sunday of the month, the Fresh Market is a lovely spot to grab a morning coffee Wandering around the stalls you’ll find everything from just-baked sourdough to locally-made jams and preserves for sale Local markets like these really support regional artisans so why not grab some treats to gift to friends or enjoy once you’re home Discover the best things to do on the Great Ocean Road Jo Stewart is a freelance features writer who pens stories about nature design and more from her home in the Macedon Ranges of Victoria you can find her trawling through vinyl records and vintage fashion at op shops and website in this browser for the next time I comment Δdocument.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value" If you’re planning a Great Ocean Road trip there are plenty of places to stop and things to do while driving on one of the world’s most scenic ro.. Don’t set out on Victoria’s most iconic road trip without planning where you’ll stop along the way – better yet Considered to be one of the world’s most scenic coastal drives Victoria’s Great Ocean Road gives you the opportunity to see the iconic 12 Apostle.. From joining a kayaking tour to pedalling along a historic rail trail and swooning over a cute From a casual beachfront cafe with cracking ocean views to a specialty roastery known for cranking out top-notch coffee From a lively pizza joint with a big personality to a classic pub with a long and storied history there are plenty of Port Fairy restaurants to choos.. Australian Traveller Media acknowledges the traditional custodians of the Country on which we live and work This is the date and time of the event mentioned in this article Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village is hosting its first ever “fire night” on Saturday August 19 which is $5 for adults and free for children and members a twilight cannon firing and fires along the waterfront – with marshmallows available for toasting Warrnambool Mayor Cr Debbie Arnott said that the aim was to encourage people to embrace the conditions and enjoy a unique event “We’ve seen with the success of the Solstice Search Party that people are willing to rug up and head out for winter events,” she said “It’s all about using the conditions to your advantage The early sunset means things like a cannon firing at dusk and toasting marshmallows on a fire can all be done at a more family-friendly time “As well as being home to Australia’s richest collection of shipwreck artefacts and not to mention a working 19th century cannon and this will give everyone a chance to visit Flagstaff Hill for a special event at a very affordable price.” The event will run from 5pm until 10pm.  The element requested is either not valid or does not exist Innovation and Sport and Minister Assisting the Premier on Olympics and Paralympics Sport and EngagementThe Honourable Stirling Hinchliffe Bowen’s newest conference and event space Flagstaff Hill Cultural and Conference Centre has been officially opened by Queensland Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchliffe and Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Andrew Willcox The $4 million Flagstaff Hill complex has made a significant contribution to local jobs and the Palaszczuk Government’s Covid-19 Economic Recovery Plan for the region Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the cultural centre would be a terrific boost for Bowen “The new Flagstaff Hill complex replaces the old centre which was damaged beyond repair four-years-ago when Cyclone Debbie came to town the new complex maximises the site’s enormous potential outdoor entertainment and a great function area “Up to 13 jobs and 20 subcontractor opportunities were supported by the project and a 25-tonne excavator used to rebuild better with a 750 mm concrete perimeter slab “The Flagstaff Hill Cultural and Conference Centre is a good example of what can be achieved when all three levels of Government work together in partnership for the benefit of the community.” The Palaszczuk Government contributed $2 million through the Building our Regions Program $1 million was secured by the Queensland and Australian Government’s jointly funded Tourism Recovery Fund while Whitsunday Regional Council put a further $1 million into the Flagstaff Hill Centre Mayor Andrew Willcox said Flagstaff Hill was an iconic destination for residents and visitors and the rebuild would deliver a significant boost to the existing visitor offerings in Bowen “Flagstaff Hill provides 360-degree views of the Whitsunday Islands Coral Sea and Bowen hinterland,” he said “The centre can cater for up to 200 patrons and is located next to a walking trail and lookout which informs visitors about the impact and legacy of our Indigenous community.” “The new Flagstaff Hill Cultural and Conference Centre will be a destination in its own right and showcase the best of our beautiful town.” Assistant Minister for Regional Tourism Michelle Landry said the rebuilt Cultural and Conference Centre would provide a valuable tourism drawcard for the region “This wonderful new venue will attract visitors to a range of events festivals and indigenous tourism activities,” Ms Landry said it will help the region’s economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic “Our Government has proudly supported this project with funding from the Tourism Demand Driver Infrastructure Program “We continue to back the Whitsundays region and look forward to once again welcoming visitors from around the world when conditions allow” Please use our complaints and compliments form Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village volunteers have spent 12 years working on a project to commemorate the 224 lives lost in an 1835 shipwreck beanies and waistcoats – all of which were handmade by the volunteers – with one item of clothing representing each victim of the wreck of the Neva The Neva was transporting Irish convict women and children on the way to Sydney and was wrecked off King Island between Victoria and Tasmania Only 15 people survived: nine crew members and six convict women Flagstaff Hill volunteer Pat Zaunbrecher suggested the idea for the exhibition to her fellow volunteers over a decade ago and has been working away with her colleagues ever since “I read about the Neva and thought that it was so tragic,” she said this horrendous journey that they would have been terrified on “People have convict ancestors and they think “wow that’s so good” but they don’t understand what it would have meant for that person She said that the volunteers decided to make one item of clothing for each victim to help get across the scale of the disaster as well as to remind everyone that these were ordinary people They’re everyday items and they were everyday people,” Ms Zaunbrecher said “That journey coming here was a great leveller They were literally all in the same boat.” This is the first temporary exhibition at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village under the stewardship of newly appointed Curator Justin Croft Mr Croft said that the Neva is one of the worst disasters in Australian maritime history “We wanted to introduce temporary exhibitions to help bring some more stories to people’s attention and activate the spaces here in different ways,” he said “There are human stories with every shipwreck that are fascinating “Because it went down so quickly and the area is so treacherous there hasn’t been any diving to search for the wreck He said that there was one small positive to come from the disaster and there have been generations who have come after them The exhibition officially opens on May 13 – exactly 187 years after the fateful shipwreck – and runs until July 12 Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village is home to Australia’s richest collection of shipwreck artefacts and has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on over 900 reviews on popular tourism website TripAdvisor The City of Onkaparinga has unveiled a new 700-metre Minkarra Park Link Path connecting Black Road to Chandlers Hill Road providing a seamless shared-use trail for pedestrians and cyclists With the assistance of $1 million in funding from the Government The newly constructed path integrates seamlessly with the existing trail network creating an uninterrupted pathway for community members to enjoy “Minkarra has long held a special place in our community’s heart the two sections have been separated by the Flagstaff Hill Golf Club course which hindered safe and convenient travel between them,” City of Onkaparinga Mayor Moira Were One of the significant advantages of the Minkarra Park Link Path is its role in connecting two popular trails and reserves enhancing accessibility and promoting outdoor activities in the region By bridging the gap between the northern and southern pathways of Minkarra Park it provides a safe off-road route for residents and visitors alike “The new Minkarra Link Trail opens up a pocket of our community that few would have known existed,” Member for Davenport students living north of the Flagstaff Hill Golf Club now have safe access to and from Aberfoyle High School It’s a huge win for a community that’s been calling for this project for decades.” the path accommodates various access needs Two boardwalk sections have been incorporated into the design eliminating the need for stairs and ensuring accessibility for all users safety fencing has been installed alongside a golf course tee-off section Native revegetation works are set to commence in June further enhancing the natural environment surrounding the trail making it an ideal destination for families and those that love the outdoors “The Minkarra Park Link Path’s inauguration marks a milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance recreational opportunities for residents of Flagstaff Hill and beyond,” Minister for Infrastructure and Transport “The opening of Minkarra Park Link Trail is great news for the local community and delivers on a $1 million commitment we made before coming into government to ensure we delivered the best result for local users and visitors “It’s fantastic to see that hard work and planning as well as the relentless advocacy of Erin Thompson South Australia is building on so many levels at the moment and community wellbeing is central to that effort.” For more information on the Minkarra Park Link Path, head here Over 100 South Australian wine producers are showcasing their best to international importers this.. 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Glam Adelaide is a news website dedicated to bringing you the best of South Australia we pride ourselves in supporting local business We would like to acknowledge the Kaurna people as the custodians of the lands and waters of the Adelaide region Get the latest SA news for free via our iPhone app here: https://apps.apple.com/au/app/glam-adelaide/id1626204930 Get the latest SA news for free via our new Android app here: https://play.google.com/store/search?q=glam+adelaide&c=apps&hl=en&pli=1 Glam Adelaide has today launched an app for readers all over SA Following a viral video showing tensions in the community Adelaide has become home to many a High Tea spots that are perfect for.. Stephen Noonan is bringing his much loved show The Boy and the Ball to.. Wrong Turn At Lungfish is of exceptional quality and an unmitigated stand out South Australia will see mixed weather conditions Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village has posted strong June long weekend visitor numbers – up on both last year’s figures and those of 2019 there were 764 day visitors and 224 attendees at the sound and light show This compares to 2022 June long weekend numbers of 709 and 191 In the pre-COVID year of 2019 there were 658 day time and 255 night time entries (up 8 per cent in 2023) Warrnambool Mayor Debbie Arnott said that Flagstaff Hill was a popular year-round attraction “While the weather over the long weekend was generally quite good as a city where many of the most popular things to see and do are outside Flagstaff Hill is an important attraction because it provides a high-quality spring – visitors continue to be attracted to a day “We’ve seen glimpses of whales over the past couple of weeks and hopefully we are in for a bumper whale season that coincides with the school holidays to further boost our visitor economy.” Cr Arnott also encouraged everyone to vote for Warrnambool in the Top Tourism Town Awards “I think part of being a truly great tourist town is to be a year-round attraction,” she said “We are definitely an incredibly popular summer destination but when you add experiences like Flagstaff Hill that can be enjoyed year-round we really are an outstanding destination at any time of the year “Judges have named Warrnambool as one of eight finalists in the 10,000+ population category of the Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards and a public vote will help to determine the winner “It only takes two minutes to vote, and you could win a prize, so visit www.vtic.com.au/toptourismtown by June 22.” The winners of the Top Tourism Town Awards will be announced on July 26 The Weekly SOURCE is published by DCM Media The new research, from top buyers’ agents Henderson Advocacy has revealed the top 10 suburbs for house investors selected from the top 50 high growth local government areas across Australia Henderson Advocacy Founder Jack Henderson said two suburbs from South Australia made the list with Hallett Cove also offering attractive opportunities for house investors as did three from Queensland and two from Western Australia “The suburbs that have made the list offer a perfect balance of affordability and strong rental yields,” Mr Henderson said “They also demonstrate positive price growth Top Pick Suburbs: Unveiling the investor’s goldmine in Australia’s fastest-growing localities was a “compelling investment prospect”.  The suburb has a median listing price of $759,000 with the average number of properties for sale rising from 13 three months ago to 16 now while the median weekly rent has risen from $520 a year ago to $580 now.  “The proportion of household income spent on rent is at a healthy 28 per cent while the buy affordability indicator shows that buyers can purchase a property with less than 7.3 years of income,” the report noted “In addition, Flagstaff Hill offers a solid yield of 3.8 per cent.” In second place was the Queensland suburb of Daisy Hill with the average number of listings dropping slightly from 16 three months ago The median rental rate has risen from $550 to $600 and the vacancy rate is a “balanced” 1.5 per cent making it a potentially lucrative investment,” the report notes In third position is the second South Australian suburb of Hallett Cove “The suburb currently displays a median list price of $735,105 evidencing a healthy real estate market,” the report noted “While the average number of listings has slightly decreased from 27 three months ago to 26 now the median days on market for sales is a swift 22 implying a quick turnover for properties in the area.” The median lease price in Hallett Cove has climbed from $520 per week Hallett Cove scores well in terms of rental and purchase affordability,” the report said “Only 28 per cent of the average household income is spent on rent and the buy affordability is set at 7.4 years of income.  “These figures reflect a balanced and accessible market the suburb offers a decent yield of 3.8 per cent adding to its attractiveness for potential investors.” Mr Henderson said the diverse list of suburbs demonstrated the breadth of investment opportunities across Australia.  whether it’s the coastal charm of Hallett Cove or the urban appeal of Tighes Hill in Newcastle,” he said “Despite the challenges of the past year the Australian property market has shown remarkable resilience there are still plenty of opportunities to be found.” Other suburbs on the list include Woodvale (WA) News Sitemap