The Parade College Writing Workshop: The underdogs in red stripes

Parade College student Marven Polus (Grade 9) tells the story of a tense junior soccer match – a game he’ll remember forever for a special reason.

Balcony Banter – Ann Rusden, MCC Library and MCG Tour Guide

‘There is something particular to each tour guide who brings a group through the Melbourne Cricket Club Library.’ From that starting point, Lynda Carroll launches into her profile about Ann Rusden, one of the many dedicated tour guides at the ‘G’.

‘Arvo Tea At The Cricket……..’ by Simone Kerwin

Simone Kerwin tells us about that country cricket institution, afternoon tea, the bounty that graced the tables and the kids who gazed and then grazed on what was left over after the players had had their fill.

The Parade College Writing Workshop: A Champions League dream

Yanni Pargas has a great morning watching the Champions League final between Liverpool and Spurs.

A new pay deal for the Matildas

The Matildas have announced a new pay deal, having reached agreement with the FFA.

Flashback: Summer

Back in 2009, Dips O’Donnell was ruminating about the four seasons. When thoughts turned to summer, he pondered the clash between the elemental forces of the season – commerce and cricket. He feared that commerce was winning.

Flashback: Chelsea v Wolves at Stamford Bridge

Another taste of the Almanac’s early days. Our roaming correspondent at large, the peripatetic Peter Flynn, was at Stamford Bridge to watch Chelsea take on Wolves. The cab ride was a mistake, as was the unfortunate mention of Frank Skinner.

Almanac Flashback – That one day in November: Pamela Sherpa

From her 2010 story Pamela Sherpa tells of her attempts to watch the big race while on a casual relief teaching stint.

Almanac Flashback – The Melbourne Cup: Matt Zurbo

In an Almanac Flashback from 2014, Matt Zurbo reflects on the traditions of racing, from about as far away from the glamour of Flemington as you can get.

Happy Cup Day to all! – Sal’s tips for the big race

The Melbourne Cup is just about here! Sal Ciardulli presents his thoughts and tips for the big race, and hopefully a winner or two for punters.

Racing: Horses get sick, don’t they – Part 7

Read on for Part 7 of Matt Watson’s saga on the 2007 Equine Influenza crisis.

Referendums, Gilchrist and a record-breaking run chase – the Australian cricket summer in 1999/2000

1999 was an interesting time in Australia. Sean Mortell tells the story of a nation’s referendum and the connection it had with a famous Australian test match victory.

A second bite of the cherry: The 2020 to 2022 wages deal for the AFLW

The AFLW wages issue is a complex one being discussed by players and officials. Braham Dabscheck provides a comprehensive guide on what is happening and what the ideal resolution looks like.

Almanac Baseball: Away, Away – The World Series 2019

Brian the Ruminator brilliantly recounts the away wins and unlikely finish seen in the recent MLB World Series finale.

Almanac Rugby League – There are upsets, and then there are Upsets!

Saturday’s international rugby league triple-header at Auckland’s Eden Park provided two upsets, one of which was notable, the other historic. At the end of the day, the winner was rugby league but the biggest winner was Tonga. Rugby league aficionado Ian Hauser explains.

Almanac (Local ) Cricket – Don’t Annoy Me About ‘Chuckers’

Phil Hill talks us through ‘visual summation’ and ‘the carry angle of the human arm’ as he seeks to solve the issue of so-called ‘chuckers’ out in the Merks.

Almanac Lunch: The Footy Almanac Melbourne Cup Eve Lunch

All welcome at the Footy Almanac Melbourne Cup Eve Lunch (Nov 4). With VRC Handicapper Greg Carpenter. Help us pick a trifecta. Details in this post. Bookings essential.

The last South Purrumbete FC team

It’s a sad time whenever a footy club folds. Luke Reynolds recalls his memories of the final days of the South Purrumbete Football Club in 1999.

Sal’s Derby Day Preview – It’s Christmas Day for Punters

‘Derby Day remains the best day on the racing calendar’, according to Sal. With his usual fearless approach, he nominates his winner for the big day tomorrow.

Almanac Cricket – Pomborneit Cricket Club 2019/20 Season: October Review

Catch up on all the latest news from the Pomborneit Cricket Club in their October review newsletter. #gopombobulls