Queues at Geelong Centrelinks stretched up to 100m on Monday morning after the federal government announced payments for people impacted by coronavirus. A queue stretched about 100m at Centrelink’s central Geelong office while in Corio dozens of people lined up for services. A witness told the Independent some were abiding by new social distancing regulations […]

Locals have dug deep to raise money for cancer research despite the Surf Coast Relay for Life being cancelled due to coronavirus concerns. Surf Coast Relay for Life chairman Rob Tyler said participants have raised at least $36,500 for cancer research and support, with more money still coming in. The event was meant to take […]

Unsolved sexual offences in Geelong have increased by eight times over five years, according to Crime Statistics Agency (CSA) data prepared for the Independent. Police recorded 12 sexual offences as ‘unsolved’ at the end of the year ending September 2015, compared to 102 in the year ending September 2019. Recorded sexual offences in greater Geelong […]

Karenni woman Chrimoo Yohellaymusaw is one of thousands of refugees making up the rich multicultural fabric of Geelong. Ahead of Harmony Day, she spoke to Luke Voogt about fleeing Burmese soldiers through mountainous jungles, followed by 18 years in a refugee camp.   Chrimoo Yohellaymusaw was just seven-years-old when she saw Burmese soldiers shoot and […]

It seems that good times keep rolling at Club Italia in Moolap. Right from its beginnings, the club has been about friendship and socialising – initially for the local Italian families, and now for anyone who values generous hospitality, great Italian food and just plain fun. It’s not on until May 9, but Leanne Grist […]

Welsh expat Emily Sutcliffe might be a newcomer to Geelong but she’s already making her mark, especially in soccer circles. The Geelong Galaxy United FC captain and junior mentor spoke to Luke Voogt after winning council’s Women in Community Life Leading Gender Equality in Sport Award recently. What is your connection to Geelong? I play […]