Spreadin’ The News

From Almanac work experience in 2015, Bridget ‘MCG Pie Girl’ Schwerdt is embarking on a new life adventure in 2020. [Good luck ‘Pie Girl’ and all the best! Eds.]

Almanac Music: Top Albums of 2019

Luke Reynolds has named his favourite albums for the year. Is your favourite there?

Alex Georgiou – the Competitor

Alex Georgiou, former champion Norwood FC player is profiled by Malcolm Ashwood as he continues his series of stories about champion footballers.

Almamac cricket – A view of Australia from fine leg: Match 6, Sheffield Cricket Club, 21 December 2019

Craig Dodson presents his match 6 report from the Sheffield Cricket Club in Tasmania as he continues his quest raising funds for Mental Health Foundation Gotcha4Life. Craig aims to play 10 cricket matches with different clubs each week across Australia.

Australia v New Zealand – Second Test, Day 4: Another masterclass from Australia

Tom Blundell makes a wonderful ton for New Zealand but it’s not enough to stave off defeat as the Aussies handsomely win the Second Test at the MCG reports Citrus Bob Utber.

Vale Rodney Seekamp

Malcolm Ashwood remembers Rod Seekamp in his tribute to the former Norwood Football Club stalwart who recently passed away.

A Family of Tossers

So Helena Schwerdt wins the Bay Sheffield. Yes, she’s from the famous sheaf-tossing family. Here’s their story, as told by Almanac lynchpin Swish Schwerdt:

Have you been wondering if Swish Schwerdt is related to the famous South Australian sheaf tossing Schwerdts? Not actually sure what sheaf tossing is? Let Swish enlighten you.

Australia v New Zealand – Second Test, Day 3: Unbeatable lead set up

Australia is in a commanding position on Day 3 at the MCG in the Second Test between Australia v New Zealand reports Citrus Bob Utber.

Australia v New Zealand – Second Test, Day 2: How to (almost) ruin a day at the cricket

The cricket was excellent, but the performance of security at the Second Test at the MCG was heavy-handed, writes Jan Courtin.

Australia v New Zealand – Second Test, Day 2: Cricket the big winner at the MCG

A thoroughly enjoyable day of cricket reports Citrus Bob Utber on Day 2 of the Second Test Australia v New Zealand with cricket and sportsmanship shining brightly.

Desert Island Drinks – What will it be sir/madam?

Marooned on a desert island, magically you’ve got your music, books and food to comfort you, so now, to top it all off, what will you have to drink?

Australia v New Zealand – Second Test: Day 1 MCG

Citrus Bob Utber reports the Aussies are holding the upper hand on Day 1 of the Second Test at the MCG between Aust v NZ.

So close to the Holy Grail: A personal reflection on Fitzroy Football Club’s 1983 season

Philip Mendes was in his second year at uni in 1983, the year Fitzroy made a genuine play for the flag. Here he recounts the season, game by game, quoting the analysis of the experts of the day, and giving his own commentary. [Fantastic memories – JTH]

Almanac Cricket – The all-time Australian men’s MCG XI: dodging the snorefest

It’s one thing to get the runs on the board on a flat deck, quite another when the game is in the balance. Dave Brown looks at the best men’s performances at the MCG over the years

Almanac Cricket History – Australia v New Zealand Tests at the MCG

Would you believe that Australia and New Zealand have played only three Tests at the MCG? True story! Ian Hauser looks back over the clashes at the ‘G’.

Australia v New Zealand: Second Test blog

The Boxing Day Test is upon us. Discussion of pitch, bouncers, and weather predominates. But what do the followers of the Almanac make of affairs?

A Superb Christmas Song

Christmas time! What better time than to bring out your favourite Christmas songs for their yearly airing. Mickey Randall writes about his favourites.

Chris Paul – the most underrated acquisition of the NBA off season

Mark Miller explores the background to the signing of elder statesman, injury prone Chris Paul to the Oklahoma City Thunder team in the NBA.

The Video James Corner: Good Game

In his final segment for 2019, James Bosco reviews some of the events, issues and happenings that have occurred in the world of esports during the year.

The local cricket rodeo – a short story on a batting collapse

Wickets have tumbled, a batting collapse, a cock-a-hoop fielding side, and you walk to the crease nerves a flutter to face the next ball. Sean Mortell sets the scenario emphatically.