Swish looks back on the range of workplaces he graced in his Adelaide years and how they changed (or didn’t) during that time. Did you have a tea lady, staff canteen or work cricket club?
Almanac Footy History: The First State of Origin Football Game – Changi POW Camp January 1943
February 10, 2026 by 4 Comments
The first State of Origin Aussie Rules football match occurred in the Changi POW Camp in 1943 states ‘Grand Final History’ (Kieran Magee) as he examines the historical facts behind the occasion in his in-depth account of the event.
Almanac Literary: – ‘The Marvellous Cup’: a story told in ‘Touchstone’, a biography of Samuel Griffiths.
January 6, 2026 by Leave a Comment
In this third extract from ‘Touchstone’ Murray Bird and Richard Griffiths, ‘The Marvellous Cup’ looks at the world of racing in Australia in 1890, and in particular the Melbourne Cup.
Almanac Book (Plans): A tour of old western Sydney for an upcoming book
December 18, 2025 by Leave a Comment
Wayne Peake is hoping to re-create a fondly remembered tradition from his father’s time – a mystery car rally – around historic sites in western Sydney. Eventually, he hopes to turn it all into a publication.
Almanac Footy: Sel Murray – North Melbourne’s super boot
July 14, 2025 by 5 Comments
The North Melbourne FC recently celebrated its 100th Anniversary in the VFL/AFL. Roger highlights the playing career of one of the Kangas great champions, full-forward Sel Murray in an in-depth and enlightening tribute.
Almanac Sports History – When three codes crossed borders: Ironies of footballs’ first Internationals
April 10, 2025 by 1 Comment
As the Aussie Rules footy world’s attention is drawn to the AFL’s 2025 Gather Round in Adelaide, the once mighty clash between Victoria and South Australia is being replayed on minor ovals between the men’s and women’s teams of the now second-level Victorian Football League and South Australian National Football League. Geoffrey Gold recalls when the inaugural representative match between two rival Australian colonies completed the trifecta of first internationals of major codes, Rugby Union in 1871, Association Football (soccer) in 1872 and Australian Rules in 1879.
Almanac Biography: A request from Citrus Bob – who is the batsman?
March 28, 2025 by 5 Comments
Citrus Bob is desperate to find out who the tall batsman is going out to bat with Chris Kiernan. He would be delighted if someone can help him out.
Almanac History: A look at Williamstown Train Museum
January 29, 2025 by 1 Comment
RagingBull (Callum Quirk) pays a visit to the Williamstown Train Museum and takes a dive into Victoria’s rail history.
Almanac Book Review: ‘The Badge We Wear: A History of Sport at UNSW Sydney’ – Anthony T. Hughes
November 20, 2024 by 1 Comment
Braham Dabscheck reviews ‘The Badge We Wear: A history of sport at UNSW Sydney’ by Anthony T. Hughes.
Almanac History: A Trip through Victoria’s Railway History
November 12, 2024 by 3 Comments
Callum Quirk recounts his trip to Gisbourne, Horsham, and DImboola to relive the days of steam trains that were operating and on display.
Almanac Footy History: Bill Morris – The Good Samaritan
July 12, 2024 by 4 Comments
Bill Morris, former Richmond champion and Brownlow Medalist, was a legend of his era. Roger Spaull presents a magnificent account of the football career of Bill Morris.
Almanac Lunch: With legendary sports writer John Craven in Geelong (June 28) – Limited places left
June 19, 2024 by 3 Comments
You are invited to lunch with celebrated author and journalist John Craven at the Petrel Hotel in Geelong on June 28 as he talks about his new book ‘The Conquerors’ the stories of 100 of Geelong’s greatest sportsmen and sportswomen. [Limited places left – bookings close this weekend]
Almanac Book Review: ‘The One Indiscretion of His Life’ by Gideon Haigh
February 12, 2024 by 1 Comment
The inimitable Roy Hay has reviewed Gideon Haigh’s latest book which looks at the life and times of William ‘Barlow’ Carkeek.
Almanac Local History – Pine Ridge Cemetery Coburg: Reginald Bell (1899-1913) – Promising child jockey
November 29, 2023 by 2 Comments
Reginald Bell (1899-1913) was a promising junior jockey until a race fall unfortunately took his life. He is one of many sportsmen buried at the Pine Ridge Cemetery Coburg.
Up the Mighty Murray! – Episode 2: Rise up for the River Murray
April 26, 2023 by 3 Comments
In Episode 2 of ‘Up The Mighty Murray’ Peter Clark ventures upriver towards Tailem Bend and Murray Bridge, towns with football clubs participating in the River Murray Football League.
Almanac Life: Betty Croker (nee Cashill )– Part 1: A Country Life
April 24, 2023 by 1 Comment
Keiran Croker’s mum, Betty, turns 100 on the 29 April. Keiran provides the first of two parts about his mother’s long and fruitful life.
Odd Friday/Footy Almanac Lunch: With Colin Carter (March 3)
February 21, 2023 by Leave a Comment
The next Odd Friday/Footy Almanac Lunch is March 3. Our special guest is Colin Carter whose book ‘Football’s Forgotten Years’ has just been released. Colin will no doubt chat about his time at the Geelong Football Club as well. All welcome.
Almanac Comment: MCC Library – a place of reflection, conversation, discovery and respect
The Melbourne Cricket Club Library is 177 years old. Citrus Bob Utber and others pay their respects to this institution of reflection, conversation, and discovery for members, scholars, researchers and the general public.