The Ashes 2021/22 – Third Test, Melbourne Day 2: Bowlers give England hope but batting lets Poms down

The English bowlers put their team back into the 3rd Test only to be let down by their batters once again reports Citrus Bob Utber from the MCG.

Almanac Cricket: The Best XI from before my time

While there’s no footy to watch, Rodney Boyd has turned his mind to cricket. This effort is similar to his regular series of teams but with a twist: he never saw any of these men play.

Almanac Poetry: George Stubbs’ ‘A Lion Attacking a Horse’

Kevin Densley’s poem is based on a famous eighteenth century painting by arguably the greatest horse painter of all-time, George Stubbs. The great poet William Blake also receives mention.

Almanac Rugby League: Vale Johnny Gleeson, Kangaroo No. 391

Rugby League in Queensland (and Australia) is mourning the passing of Johnny Gleeson, a true champion of the 1950s and 60s.

Almanac Cricket: Vale Ray Illingworth

Former England cricket captain Ray Illingworth has passed away at the age of 89. The Footy Almanac pays tribute to a tough, determined player, captain, coach and administrator.

The Ashes 2021/22 – Third Test, Melbourne Day 1: Not traditional, but all the better for Australia

It was a commanding day for the Aussie team as the English batters once again failed on Day 1 of the Ashes Boxing Day Test reports Sean Mortell.

The Ashes 2021/22 – Third Test, Melbourne Day 1: Australia continue on their merry way!

‘Citrus’ Bob Utber reports on Day 1 of the Third Test where Captain Cummins gambled on sending the Poms in, a wise decision on reflection.

Almanac Footy History: The Nullawil Maroons Part 2 – Breaking the drought

After a run of Grand Final losses Nullawil FC were determined to win the 1964 flag as Paddy Grindlay found out when he caught up with a couple of the old-timers.

Almanac Cricket: Dr Cricket

With the dust from the footy season barely settled, Glen! turns his attention to cricket, especially cricketers of a medical nature.

Almanac (Christmas) Life: ER may have met Santa!

David Wilson experienced the community joy and spirit of Christmas in Brunswick when he may have met Santa!

Almanac Life: What I Did Last Summer … And The Summer Before … And The Summer Before …

Do you have an annual summer tradition, more particularly, something you typically do to occupy those languid days after the Christmas festivities, but before the New Year arrives? KD writes about how he usually fills in this time of the year.

Almanac Cricket: Citrus Bob’s favourite cricket grounds

With a lull between Tests, Citrus Bob Utber puts his mind to selecting his favourite cricket grounds for watching cricket.

Almanac (Holiday) Life: Another Christmas Day

Patrick O’Brien’s fine eye observes this year’s Christmas.

Almanac Music: The Beatles (continued)

Co-editor Ian Hauser responds to Col Ritchie’s call for your favourite Beatles song.

Almanac Cricket: The Prodigal Son

Cricket umpire John Gascoigne is impressed by the cricketing prowess of youngster Harish Salwathura.

Almanac Lost & Found: One oar, St Kilda beach

This is the story of an oar. By E. regnans, who was down on the Bay for the the summer solstice.

Almanac Music – The Best Australian Albums of 2021

Courtesy of further lockdowns, Smokie listened to plenty of Australian music in 2021. Here are his best of the year.

Almanac Books: Almanacker Peter Clark wins book award!

Congratulations to Almanacker Peter Clark for winning NSW Football History Society’s Harry Hedger award for the best historical work on football in NSW in 2021.

Almanac Music: ‘She Loves You’ – The Beatles

What’s your favourite Beatles song? Col Ritchie has made his choice, what do you think?

Almanac Music: Musical musings from a garbage truck

Monday nights while working on the garbage truck, Matt Zurbo listened to the ‘most exquisite music to ever touch a soul’.