What better way to solve the problems of the world, and discuss footy and other topics than with a nice long lunch with a few coldies thrown in suggests Allan Barden recalling his many lunching groups.
Almanac Life: Saving the world and improving football, one lunch at a time (Some tongue in cheek thoughts in support of the lunch)
May 2, 2026 by 7 Comments
Almanac History and Culture: In The Footsteps Of Unfortunates And Ghosts Past (a weekend spent in Pentridge Gaol, including a walking tour in nearby Coburg Cemetery)
March 20, 2026 by Leave a Comment
Allan Barden shares with us the sights he discovered on a recent tour of the infamous Pentridge Gaol.
Almanac Memoir: The Loo, the Lavatory, and me – Reflections and Meditations from the Smallest Room
March 10, 2026 by 13 Comments
Allan Barden takes us to the smallest room in the house, aka the loo, dunny, lavatory, toilet, bathroom etc, for his exploration of a rather unusal theme.
Almanac Squash: A Potted Memoir of Squashing Balls
December 19, 2025 by 6 Comments
Allan Barden recalls his introduction to squash and his developing interest in the exploits of the world’s great players including Aussies Geoff Hunt and Heather McKay. And the highlight: a fifteen minute master class with a member of the famous Khan family.
Almanac Music: ‘Whole Lotta Love’ in Acland Street
October 23, 2025 by 3 Comments
The Bardens, Allan and Lorelle, had a great time on Ackland Street, highlighted by a two-hour Led Zeppelin tribute performed by the incredible Dallas Frasca.
Almanac Memories: Conversations around a bar table
October 10, 2025 by 12 Comments
Allan Barden reflects on his time at the Canberra Irish Club and the contribution pubs can make to community well-being and social cohesion. The secret was sitting there all along.[Cracking read AB! – Ed]
Almanac Life: Ye Old Gladstone Bag
July 1, 2025 by 14 Comments
A bag with character, weight and history – Allan Barden recalls fondly the Gladstone of years past, a ubiquitous fixture for gents of generations and one stop shop for the trainer at local footy clubs. [I’m sure my grandfather has kept his lawn bowls in one too – Ed.]
Almanac Life: Hair Now And Then
April 23, 2025 by 11 Comments
Hair loss is a very real issue for many of us. Allan Barden offers some thoughts on the process of balding.
Almanac Petanque: On The Piste Again
March 14, 2025 by 3 Comments
Allan Barden introduces readers to the sporting world of Pétanque.
Almanac Footy (Legends) – Peter Singline: Singing The Praises Of Another Local Hero And Champion
February 22, 2025 by 8 Comments
Allan Barden remembers, with respect and thanks, Peter Singline from the Swansea football and cricket teams, the man whose generous encouragement set him on his life’s path. (A beautiful testament – Ed.)
Almanac Life: Local Hero, Local Champion, Or Both – C. W. (Bill) Darke
February 1, 2025 by 5 Comments
Allan Barden pays a fitting tribute to C.W. (Bill) Darke recognising the contribution local heroes such as Bill make to their communities and sports.
Almanac Footy History: ‘Mulga’ and Ye Olde Buckland Inn
November 13, 2024 by 6 Comments
Allan Barden fondly remembers Maurice ‘Mulga’ Gregson, an old stalwart supporter, storyteller, and former player of the Swansea Football Club who passed away recently aged 94.
Tasmanian Football Days – Some Memories and Reflections (including the occasional rant!)
June 19, 2024 by 9 Comments
Allan Barden is excited about Tasmania entering the AFL competition. Here, he provides us with some personal history, as well as looking into the future of footy in Tasmania.
Almanac Local History – Cazaly Rests in Coburg Cemetery
February 15, 2024 by 1 Comment
Allan Barden continues his series on the resting place of sports luminaries in Coburg Cemetery. Today’s focus is the Cazaly family.
Almanac Life: Football and a dog helped
January 8, 2024 by 8 Comments
Allan Barden’s friend is one of the ‘lucky ones’. A dog, a footy club and parents helped when all seemed lost to dependence. [Contains content that may be mildly confronting to some – Ed]
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