They shall not be forgotten years. Richmond: 1981 – 2016: An occasional series of reflections on the triumphs and tragedies that made 2017 so worth the wait.

Stainless confronts the horror that was Richmond’s 1982 Grand Final loss and its aftermath in his ongoing series about the Tigers during those years their fans would like to forget but can’t. So many ‘what ifs?’ in this brutally honest reflection.

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.]

Haiku Bob – Round 14: the blink of my eye

On a cold and miserable afternoon at the footy, Haiku Bob had two wins – his Magpies got up (eventually) and he nailed his public transport connection on the way home!

Almanac Cyber Crime: There are experts and there are experts!

For those of you who have been following Jan Courtin’s computer problems, she has her files back. But in the midst of all the tears, she discovered that not all experts are alike.

Almanac Footy Poetry: “A Footy Crowd” by Bernard Whimpress

Bernard Whimpress sums it up perfectly: this is the way it should be and not what’s served up, for the diehard footy supporter, and their day at the footy, as one of the crowd.

Sport, Gambling, Media and Government: An Unholy Alliance

Peter_B shares some facts about the size, reach and power of the gambling industry. It has corrupted sporting bodies, media and governments. It is largely unregulated and minimally taxed. It is coming for your children as the next generation of “customers”.

Pub Review – The Macclesfield: Man v Megalodon Hamburger

Mickey Randall has a challenge on his hands, how does he eat the megaloden, whole or deconstruct? Find out how he resolves this issue confronting him at the Macclesfield Hotel.

Almanac Food: More culinary adventures in Europe and Hong Kong

Recently returned from his European meanderings, Ian Hauser shares more of his culinary experiences on the road and drops more than a few hints about places to go for good food.

Almanac Poetry: The Oval Barracker by Colin Thiele

With BAO the centre of widespread comment this week, let’s reacquaint ourselves with the late, great Australian poet and novelist, Colin Thiele from ‘Selected Verse’ (Rigby:Adelaide, 1970). One wonders how his protagonist would fare today?

What you won’t read in the BAO training manual

What does it mean to be ‘safe’ at the footy? Stainless wanders through his personal history as a spectator to ponder ‘what now constitutes acceptable fan behaviour’ and the place of the BAO. Interesting thoughts here about ‘quality control v individual responsibility’.

Phil Matson: Prince of Coaches

FitzroyPete profiles early twentieth century legendary player/coach Phil Matson of the East Perth Royals. And what a story – an extraordinary player, peerless coach and colourful character all wrapped up in one! Read also of Pete’s plans for a commemorative series on Matson’s premiership successes. (Great reading – Ed.)

Haiku Bob – Round 12: the odds

Haiku Bob appreciates the nuances of light and ponders the odds in his take on Round 12.

Almanac Footy History – Henry Young: Champion Geelong footballer 1890-1910

Henry Young, Geelong Champion, 1890-1910, in words and picture as produced by artist, DJ Williams, represents an absorbing and informative account of Young’s footballing life.

Hey Charger!

Earl O’Neill reports about the development of his favourite Australian car, the Valiant E49 Charger, as his story explains. What is your favourite car?

A Sunday in the Barossa

Mickey Randall and Claire spend a winter’s afternoon in the Barossa visiting Grant Burge, Rockford and St Hallett’s. The finish may surprise.

Almanac Music: ‘I do love a Saturday arvo’

Fans have always had their place in the game. As Captain Rock pointed out in the early 1980s when it still was all about Saturday arvo.

Almanac Photography – Bush Footy Grounds: Moon Rising at Macarthur

Paul Buxton has been traveling in Victoria and sent in this delightful photo of the footy ground at Macarthur.

Almanac Art: Susan Sutton the artist and her art

Susan Sutton created the cover for the 2014 Footy Almanac. Her career and art are now featured in a book by author Marion Pescud. Details on the book and how to purchase it within.

Almanac Music: Farewell Roky and Dr John

Brian The Ruminator reflects upon the wonderful musical legacy left to us after the recent deaths of Dr John and Roky Erickson.

Almanac Food: Art and beauty in various forms

Ian Hauser is travelling in Europe and savouring the gastronomical delights on offer. Here he describes two very different set-course meals. [Very envious – Ed]