Return to Country

Andrew Starkie shares a series of memories and moments, at once relatable and unique, that make him who he is – a country boy at heart.

Almanac Footy: Grand Final preview – We deserve this

The best two teams of 2021 play on Saturday, for all the marbles. Andrew Starkie previews the Grand Final that we deserve, even if it is held away from the MCG.

Tom Wills – what happens now?

Andrew Starkie asks how we might respond to recent research which suggests that iconic Australian sports figure Tom Wills was ‘a member of a party that hunted down and slaughtered hundreds of Aboriginals in reprisal for the murder of his father and others in outback Queensland…’ (Challenging indeed – Ed.)

Almanac Olympics: Shame, Queensland

Andrew Starkie expresses his thoughts, in no uncertain terms, about Queensland winning the right to host the 2032 Olympics Games.

Round 13 – North Melbourne v GWS: the addiction returns

It’s tough being a North supporter this season, especially after giving up a big lead and holding on for a draw against the Giants, as a frustrated Andrew Starkie tells.

Almanac Cricket: Headingley 1930 – the first triple century in Test cricket

From the Footy Almanac archives we reprise Andrew Starkie’s wonderful account of Don Bradman’s history making first triple century in Test cricket in 1930.

Almanac Football: Respectfully, Rhyce and North Melbourne must part ways

Andrew Starkie suggests, with respect, that North Melbourne simply has to move on from Rhyce Shaw to find a new way forward. [This article was written before yesterday’s announcement. – Ed.]

Almanac Footy: I hope Browny kicks a heap of goals – A fan’s lament

Andrew Starkie is experiencing a wide range of emotions as he deals with the decision by his club, North Melbourne, to dispense with the services of Ben Brown.

Almanac Music: Reservoir Rockers

Sometimes it’s the little things that matter the most; Andrew Starkie has become part of a neighbourly trio of enthusiastic amateur musicians during lockdown.

Round 8 – North Melbourne v Carlton: Correct me if I’m wrong

The 2019 appointment of Rhyce Shaw may have looked like a lively way of rejuvenating the Roos after ten years of Brad Scott. But after Saturday’s loss to the Blues, Andrew Starkie was left questioning what was going on down at North Melbourne.

The day I met Kenny Rogers

The passing of modern music icon Kenny Rogers has touched several Almanackers – Andrew Starkie shares his experiences of watching ‘The Gambler’ up on stage in all his magnificence and frailties.

Almanac Music: Tamworth 2020 – From Little Things Big Things Grow

A magic moment at Tamworth for Andrew Starkie, as Kev Carmody and others join Paul Kelly in a moving rendition of “From Little Things, Big Things Grow”.

Almanac Memories – Bringing me back

Family memories remind Andrew Starkie that he is grateful for his upbringing making him the person he is today.

Almanac Life: Eloise Learns to Ride

Andrew Starkie has a story about his daughter, a bike, and important first steps.

Northern Football Netball League – Division 1 Grand Final: Three-quarter time huddle

Underdogs West Preston-Lakeside FC with some good old fashioned guts and determination defeat the red hot favourites Greensborough FC in the Northern Football Netball League Division 1 Grand Final as Andrew Starkie reports.

Rain

Andrew Starkie gets lyrical about the weather, particularly the rain, and wet weather footy.

Almanac Real Life: Tommy

Andrew Starkie tells the story of ‘Tommy’ who has battled long and hard, jumped more hurdles than most, been put through more hoops than many. But he’s resilient and, with a little help, seems to be coming through it to a better place. [An uplifting story – Ed.]

Round 11 – North Melbourne v Richmond: A new dawn, baby

Andrew Starkie is a satisfied man, unlike his mate Daff, as the Roos upset the Tigers in their Round 11 match.

Tom Boyd

Andrew Starkie looks at the football odyssey of Tom Boyd, from number one draft pick to retirement at age 23.

Round 7 – Carlton v North Melbourne: This was about them

As much as he enjoyed the win, Andrew Starkie finds it hard not to talk about how bad the Blues were.