AFL Japan GO League – Osaka Dingoes vs R246 Lions: Great Last Quarter for the Home Side

The 2020 footy season is underway in Japan. Yoshi reports on a see-sawing clash between Osaka Dingoes and R246 Lions from Tokyo.

On Fires and Fairness

In his thought-provoking article, Edward P. Olsen wrestles with the emotion and angst provoked by the recent bushfires, wondering about the fairness for those affected, and the dilemmas confronting those wishing to make appropriate responses.

Villers-Bretonneux remembers once again: School supports bushfire efforts

What a fantastic message from the students of the Victoria School, Villers-Bretonneux, France for sharing information of their efforts in supporting victims of the Australian bushfires. [Thanks Citrus Bob – Ed]

Balcony Banter – John Cain: A man for all women

Anne Cahill Lambert pays tribute to former Premier John Cain acknowledging his role in providing the opportunity for women to become members of the Melbourne Cricket Club.

Basketball Almanac – Trailblazer Damian Lillard’s event proposal could rejuvenate All-Star weekend

Mark Miller discusses the proposal by NBA superstar Damian Lillard to add life and excitement to the NBA All-Star Weekend.

A view of Australia from Fine Leg – Game 8: Macleod Cricket Club

Craig Dodson continues his quest raising money for Gotcha4Life by playing for 10 different cricket teams in matches around Australia. Here is his report of Match 8, Macleod CC v Greensborough CC.

Almanac Club Review: The Cobdogla Club

Mickey Randall takes us along the mighty Murray to the always welcoming Cobdogla Club… he also takes us back to the 1990s both through anecdote and the Cobby’s very reasonable drinks prices on offer! [Reminds me of the classic Crackerjack quote “beers at genuine 1972 prices” – Ed.]

Aspiring Young Writers’ Group: Conflict, of interest

Ben Kirkby and friends gather again and the discussion turns to conflict.

Thoughts on the decline of Aussie tennis (and why grinners are winners)

Paul Spinks ponders the reasoning behind Australia’s decline in world tennis since the mid 1970s. This is a longer version of Paul’s article published in The Age recently.

To drive or to walk? That is the question.

Shannon Cole explores getting kids into more exercise by encouraging them to walk to school rather than being driven by their parents.

Almanac Walking – Therapy for the Soul: Some links

Walking is a therapeutic and relaxing pastime that can bring substantial benefits to both mind and body. Check out some interesting reads that look at the philosophical aspect of walking.

Almanac Memories – Bringing me back

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

17 January 1969 – the day I met W.A. (Bert) Oldfield

Roger Lowrey takes up our ‘On This Day’ theme to remember the day he met Bert Oldfield in 1969.

I quite like walking…

Walking can be great therapy for both the body and the mind. Kate Birrell has been out and about, talking to a neighbour and experiencing the bush track at Mt Warning while she thinks about it all.

Almanac History – On This Day: What happened on January 16?

After a bit of encouragement, Ian Hauser continues his ‘What Happened on…?’ series. January 16th throws up the usual mix of images and memories.

‘Robbie Reminisces………’ by KB Hill

Rob Worthington has given a great deal to Victorian country cricket over the decades. KB Hill profiles another local legend.

NFL Divisional Monday Review: A crazy comeback, two foes lock horns to the end again

Sean Mortell recounts the action of an engrossing day of NFL playoffs.

State of Origin Canadian style: Edmonton Oilers at Calgary Flames

A fight at the ice hockey set Richard Marlow to pondering the eternal issues around violence in sport.

Almanac History – What happened on January 9? (Part Two)

Roger Lowrey reflects on events that happened in his life on January 9, over a three year period from 1971 – 1973.

Why LeBron’s changed his tune on resting

Mark Miller discusses the concept of “load management” and its utilisation by NBA greats as a form to prolonging their basketball careers.