Proudly sponsored by Ausfarm Online
Welcome again
I don’t have to tell you how quickly the year has gone, I can’t believe that it’s only a matter of weeks until Christmas. It’s also good to see that the weather has fined up and that our district graingrowers can get some serious harvest time. I hope that all our district farmers are getting good yields and high quality grain.
Quiet week
It’s about a quiet a news week as I can possibly remember, my spies have gone missing which means I have no way of finding out what is going on. Anyway we will see what we can muster up….
Cricketers down
It’s been a start to the season like no other for the MCC as they struggle to record a win. Not that they have been losing by huge margins, in fact many of the games have been just about as close as they can get (1 wicket, a couple of runs). Of course the loss of Captain Gary “Larry” Cameron was a real blow to the system both form a playing and organising perspective.
Never the same
I was actually talking to Larry just the other day and he was telling me the Doc recons that his foot will never be the same as it was. I’m still non the wiser as to how it happened and I can’t get anything out of anyone as far as this incident goes. I am back in the district next week, so I am determined to find out what actually happened.
Tiger tales
Have you been following the Tiger Wood soap opera? He makes our very own Shane Warne look like an amateur. I can’t work it out how he kept all of this quiet for so long…….and they tell me there is more to come. Luckily they don’t behave like that down at the Royal….
That’s all
Proudly sponsored by Ausfarm Online
Another week
Another week and another rain event has passed. The grain cocky’s just can’t take a trick at the moment, lets hope that that is about to change this week. I see in Ausfarm Online’s Ag news this morning that they where saying that the price for quality grain has risen…….well that’s good and well if you can get quality grain. They certainly make it harder these days.
Cricket a washout
The grudge match against Rich Avon was washed out by the odd shower on Saturday as Marnoo went into it’s first game without injured captain Gary “Larry” Cameron. I’m told they were 3/34 and in a bit of trouble when the heavens opened.
Nisbet’s arrive
There is no show without punch with former MCC life member John “Noisy” Nisbet and his second favourite son Andrew “Upstart” Nisbet attended the Ged Ryan Memorial day on Saturday. It’s now an annual event as the MCC remembers one of its most famous and colourful former players.
A memorable place in cricket’s history
This years game was played at Rich Avon and it’s the seen of one of the most memorable moments in cricket that I can remember. It would have to be 10 years ago now when the game was in the balance and Ged “Father” Ryan was batting and hooked a ball that was heading straight down the throat of former MFC premiership player Chris “Guthers” Guthrie. Guthrie completed the catch right in front of the Marnoo crowd and to show off kept running toward the crowd (holding the ball aloft) and in the meantime actually ran over the boundary. As quick as a flash John “Noisy” Nisbet realised Guthrie’s mistake and point out to the umpire that it had to be a 6. When she was on then as Marnoo cruised to victory with Ryan still at the crease. What a win……
Larry’s broken heal
Man about town “Larry” Cameron has had his wings clipped somewhat as he has 3 broken bones in his heal and will have to be in plaster for 6 to 8 weeks. He commented that he intends to watch a bit of cricket and watch the full series of underbelly whilst he has his leg up. I’m sure he will be getting well looked after as his mother “Fayzee” takes on the role of duty nurse.
Statement yet to be released
For the life of me I cannot find out how Larry actually did his injury. My spies have all gone quiet on this story and a statement has yet to be released. I’m onto it though and I endeavour to find out but I’m concerned it might be like the JFK murder, will we ever know………….
Going down like flies
I also heard that legendary MCC player Derek “The Mayor” Cameron has also gone down with a lower leg injury. The indication I got whilst talking to him last week was that he may be considering bringing a close his illustrious cricket career which has all being played in the famous Yellow and Black cap as he can’t shake this ankle injury. I don’t want to pre-empt but watch this space.
Minyip Meat Specials
An email came into my inbox last week outlining this months “Special” at John Drums “Minyip Meats”. There are plenty of bargains and if I lived a bit closer I would certainly take up some of the offers. I would recommend you subscribe by going to linkdrum@vic.chariot.net.au
That is all
Proudly sponsored by Ausfarm Online
Hello again
Welcome to another edition of the SLF. A week is a long time in farming and who would have thought that the whole state would get a drenching like it did over the weekend. Not to sure about the exact totals but I heard scores of around 30mm locally and up to 70mm over “Headsville” (St Arnaud) way.
Hot weather telling….
The recent hot weather has taken its toll on the local crops with reports that lentils have been absolutely decimated over the last couple of week. I heard that the quality of lentils is only feed quality, which means that it is virtually worthless. Also heard that most barley was going feed. A disappointing end to what could have been a well-above-average-season
There’s a fall
In news just to hand, man about town Gary “Larry” Cameron has taken a fall and broken 3 bones in his foot. At the time of writing it was unclear how it happened. The MCC will certainly miss their vibrant captain over the next couple of month as he goes about the recovery process. Get well soon Larry.
Guru spotted
Our very own Norm “Guru” Duxson was spotted in the Herald Sun attending the golf. He was in the background of yet another Tiger Woods photo. One of my spies spotted it and said it was unmistakable as to who it was. Not sure if “Guru Margie” got a guernsey as well…….
Buy your meat form the butcher
The lovely Belinda Reading sent this through last week. You have to read it to believe it………
That’s all for this week
Proudly sponsored by Ausfarm Online
What’s going on?
It’s a case of asking, what is going on as my spies have dried up like the season. It’s either everyone in is pre harvest hiding or everyone is staying in doors due to the heat. But we will see how we go……..
Seen amongst the Tigers
I’m told a few natives and ex natives were spotted at the golf last Thursday. Spotted where Norm “Guru” Duxson and the lovely “Guru Margie”, also spotted was sports fan Graeme “Grey Skies Above” Ellen along with former natives John “Noisy” Nisbet and his favourite son Tim “Pie Guts” Nisbet. I’m told it was a most exhilarating event and well worth the entry fee.
One Tiger arrives another departs
As the world’s greatest sportsman arrives another Tiger departs. Yes it’s Richo, the great man himself has given up his day job. It’s a very sad occasion for us Tigers supporters who have followed “Richo” since he debuted some 18 years ago. If anyone saw the cartoon in Saturdays Herald Sun it really summed it up, in the first caption it showed a kid say “Hi Tiger” as Tiger Woods enters the country. The next caption the same kid with a tear in his eye saying “Bye Tiger” as the big fella departs….That really summed it up
Lost but found
A couple of local powerbrokers, namely, Andrew “Clown” Newall and Brian “Farmer” Healy were driving around checking out the farmers 40 bag crops when a news alert came over the radio, “A man in his 60’s John Cameron has gone missing”. They looked at other in disbelief for a second before the story revealed that he was a Bendigo man. The atmosphere soon turned to laughter as they relayed that you would only have to check out the back veranda at Roslyn to find our very own “Jack” these days………
Howard, is he growing up????
Man about town (Melbourne that is) Hayden “Howard” McLennan is having yet another birthday on Sunday January the 17th at the Holiava Bar in Richmond. Now some would say that Howard is getting older but is he growing up???????
Watchout
I was told to tell “Jumpin” John Drum to watch out!!!!!! “Your roof is within stubbie throwing distance” a former native said………
That’s all and happy harvesting
Proudly sponsored by Ausfarm Online
Hello again
I missed last week due to time constraints, as it was a very big week with the Cup and all. I have been hearing whispers that the season is coming in real quick now that a period of hot dry weather is upon us. So harvest would be just around the corner.
Early bird and early guide
Speaking of harvest there is a bit of a rule of thumb when it comes to the start of harvest. When you see “Jumpin” Jack Carter first pull into a paddock then you have about 8 to 10 days before it’s ready to go. You could also use Brian “Farmer” Healy as a similar guide. They are always itching to get into it and I’m guessing that this year will be no exception. However don’t pack the fishing rod just yet as this year might be the exception to the rule with the season coming in quicker than anticipated.
Melbourne Cup 2009
The Melbourne Cup was well attended by locals and former locals again this year. Perennial attendees include Gary “Larry” Cameron, Armand “Herbie” Duxson, Stewart “Smacka” MacPherson, Dwain “Daryl” Duxson and Sandy “The Know All” McGregor were just some of the names that went along. All the lads were in top form and didn’t disappoint observers. The Know All was again at it cleaning up on the last race with a big win on the punt and shouting the boys for a night out on the town……I’m told it was big!!!
Grease lightning
Whilst at the cup I came across former native Simon “Ogy” Ogden who actually works for the VRC. His role this year was to look after Mega Star Olivia Newton John. So here he was the former Marnoo Under 16 premiership back flanker accompanying one of show biz’s most famous stars. He was taking his job pretty seriously too, as he could only spare and old mate a couple of words.
How to win the bouncers over
My Yarra mate Daryl Duxson was telling me about his night out at JJ’s Bar in the casino. Now JJ’s is a unique bar in that you have to go outside the premises to go to the toilet. That means that every time you go, you have to be let back in by the bouncers. He tells me that on Melbourne Cup night last year he lasted till about 11pm before the bouncer said “you’ve had enough sir”. So there you are stuck with all your mate inside that you can no longer get access too. Well this year he went on the front foot when he first got there and asked the bouncer on duty what do you have to do to not get kicked out. The bouncer said have your shirt tucked in and when you walk through the door look me in the eye……Well he tells me it worked and he even passed on the tip to “Herbie”, who is renowned for not getting into places even though at times (not very often though) he is stone cold sober. I’ll let you work that one out.
Belt winner
This year I have awarded the belt to Anne MacPherson as she was seen out and about on the Monday night with one or two to many Vino’s under her belt. Well done Anne on taking this prestigious award away from one of the blokes.
Kiwi’s connections to Mr Asia
There was a group of Kiwi’s and former Kiwi’s out in force at the cup with all having connections to Gary “Mr Asia” Baker (there were to many of them to mention individually). Mr Asia himself had to stay home and feed the pigs but they all enjoyed the event or that’s the way it looked to me.
Enough
Proudly sponsored by Ausfarm Online
Another week
Welcome to another week of the SLF. I’m actually writing this from my humble office back here at the village. I caught up with my spies last night but they didn’t give me much. So we will have to see how we go…..
Larry goes early
MCC Captain Gary “Larry” Cameron says he is a year out when he predicted a Marnoo Cricket Club premiership. The eccentric captain has backed down somewhat in light of 2 narrow losses in the first 2 games of the Wimmera Mallee season. He said that it has been tough to get the best available team on the ground thus far but he is expecting some better performances one a few “stars” return.
10 year reunion
The MCC will have its 10 year premiership reunion on the 16th of January 2010. A big event is planned for the memory of arguable the clubs greatest victory. So put the date firmly in the diary, as I’m sure some old memories will be rekindled.
Larry happy to be back
Our very own Gary “Larry” Cameron made the headlines last week in the Wimmera Mail Times. I’m not sure what sort of money Larry is one but I am betting that his boss “Jumpin” John Drum would have slipped him a Bradman as he mentioned “Minyip Meats” on many occasions.
Season great
Boy does the season look good around here. If you compare to where I reside then it is chalk and cheese, up there everything is starting to die off and the crops will only be average. But here it’s a different story, I couldn’t help but notice the thickness of Brian “Farmer” Healy’s crops. He must be getting the right advice!!!!!
That’s it
Proudly sponsored by Ausfarm Online
Another week
It’s all happening as we move into late spring mode as the crops start turning, the hay is curing and the punters are gearing up for another Melbourne Cup Carnival. All the very best with the later.
Smacka works it out
Man about town (downtown at least) Stewart “Smacka” MacPherson was telling me why Brian “Farmer” Healy stopped using barbed wire as a top wire on his fences. Well some would say “what fences” but the real reason was that he kept getting his track suit pants caught whilst climbing over to check our his 30+ baggers. Can’t scratch the plumbs!!!!!
You don’t see that in Toorak
Last Sunday morning a couple of the cricketers where trying to rid themselves of a hangover with a Marnoo Café “Big Breakfast” when Diane “Lady Di” Newall drove past in the Mercedes with an orange flashing light on the roof. Either she was escorting a vehicle or getting the sheep across the Wimmera Highway. Either way you don’t see those sort of things happening in Toorak.
Cricketers down but only just
The MCC went down to Jeffcott on the weekend but only just. It was a bit of a blow as captain Gary “Larry” Cameron has told Square Leg that he won’t be happy with anything less than a premiership this season. Let’s hope that the result is better next week.
All chopped out
I see on Facebook where Candice “Chopping” Johnsons uploaded some photos for here 23rd birthday on facebook. The event was held a her parents place “Chopper” (Lyle) and “Mrs Chop Chop” (Louis). There were several photos taken and many that featured, I wouldn’t have had a clue who they were, but always in the background were three regular party pests. They were Bruce “Boofhead” Hendy, Larry “Gary” Cameron and Armand “Herbie” Duxson. Those three don’t miss to much…..
That’s all for this week.
Proudly sponsored by Ausfarm Online
Hello again
Welcome to another edition of the SLF. This weekend was no-mans-land as we see the break between winter sport and summer sports. I am very much looking forward to the cricket season to see what Gary “Larry” Cameron and his MCC troop can deliver in season 09/10. I also wonder what is happening with the tennis, haven’t heard much about that.
Muddy not running but Avon is…
Marnoo and district most important waterway the Muddy Waterholes creek failed to run (or I haven’t heard otherwise) but just a few k’s to the North the Avon River is flowing at a reasonable rate. Lets hope for some good rains this week which will ensure district crops go well above average.
Inspector Cameron
I wrote how Gary “Larry” Cameron dressed in a policeman’s uniform last week. Well another story came across my desk and it was when Larry arrived at the Banyena event, he walked into the hall much to the surprise of the Banyena natives, he then did a lap and just before he walked out he went into wild dance much to the laughter of the Banyena faithful.
Breakfast fit for a king
Whilst on our Corporate Cup trip I took my Yarrawonga mates to the Marnoo Café for a spot of breakfast and boy were they impressed. Nothing better after a big night is a feed of eggs, bacon, sausages, tomato, hashbrown, mushies and Baked Beans. Can’t forget the baked beans. Boy that got the day off to a good start as the lads decided to call it “seven’s Sunday”. This mean’t that every pub we stopped at we could only drink seven’s. Well it worked!!!!!
Sales a hit
The Marnoo rams sale went off as expected, in what was a healthy week for vendors. The Highlight would have to be the Wallaloo Park sale in which one ram made $32,000. I’m not sure whether that is record for the Marnoo Auctions but it’s a great way to kick off your sale. Praise again must go to the Navy Blues Supporter Group for there efforts catering for the large crowds that attended.
The pest form the West turns fifty
I was at the Glendemar Sale when I heard a group of people belting out happy birthday in the confines of the shearing shed. Well, I found out later it was directed at Mark “The Pest” Raggatt who turned the ripe old age of 50 years. I still remember “The Pest” running out of the centre in the Marnoo seconds with a long kick that hit the fast leading Colin “Cods” Whiting on the chest. Yes and you guessed it, Goaaaaaaaal………
That’s all for this week
Proudly sponsored by Ausfarm Online
Hello Hello
Welcome to the Corporate Cup edition of the SLF. I was on hand to witness this exciting event that keeps on going form strength to strength. If you missed out on attending then you missed a good show, so make sure you attend next years event.
And the winner is….
Mt Bolangum Grain and Freight took out the converted prize in what was a popular victory for Fev fan Bruce “Boofhead” Hendy. It’s now a much-prized trophy and nobody has ever won it twice. I know Boof will be trying for back to back next year.
And the winner is….
The much anticipated “belt” award was won by Armand “Herbie” Duxson. He was in fine touch as were many other people.
“Boardwalk” full
The now famous “Boardwalk” was chocka block on Saturday night. It really is a special place and talking to Rod “Rude” Reading he said they are going to organise a few summer event there. They also have the water on and intend to keep the a green lawn and garden which will add to the atmosphere.
At Yarrawonga were getting stronger….
The Yarrawonga guys I attended with had a great weekend and after the festivities finished at the “Whitehouse” they moved their tour of duty to the Banyena. On the way they gathered a few more passengers, whom you would have heard if you live on the Donald Rd, they were belting out the Yarrawonga Football Club theme song. Someone must have liked the song so much as the CD went missing.
Constable Cameron
Marnoo’s most eccentric man Gary “Larry” Cameron certainly entertained the masses at the 5th hole with his entertaining skit. Larry now has a tendency for dressing up, this time as a policeman. He also attended the Banyena show and you should have the look on all the faces when he entered the hall……….
Ausfarm Online is online
My Yarrawonga mate Dwain “Daryl” Duxson has just released his new website www.ausfarmonline.com.au which is a multi task site for Agriculture people and businesses. As farmers you can place ad’s in the Rural Classifieds for almost any category you can think of, you can also view sales catalogues, view events in Calendar, you can search for trucks in “Freight Finder” or you can ad “Forward Listings”. Also you can view the latest industry news and any sort of interesting stuff. Take a look and make sure you Sign Up
Clown proof fence
John “Jumpin” Drum got in touch with me the other day after I gave him a run in the SLF about his newly finished house. He remarked that he built a high fence to make it “Clown proof”. Of course we are talking about leading Cropping Consultant Andrew “Clown” Newall who lives a short sand wedge shot away.
That’s all
Proudly sponsored by Ausfarm Online
Hello again
Another week just flies on by and a big week it was as many merinos enthusiasts visited the district in search of the perfect sheep. Not sure whether anyone found such an animal but there was certainly plenty around.
Blue Can kept busy
Those Merinos enthusiasts certainly livened up the “Corner Shop” on Thursday night with “Old Blue Can” having to run between the till and the tap.
And the winner is……Ross Young
Pint sized former Banyena resident and extradited Carlton player Ross “Rosco” Young has just taken out the Sandover medallist for the best player in the WAFL. This is truly a great achievement for a player who once played a couple of games for Marnoo under 16’s. It just so proves that you need determination when you play at such a high level and Young certainly has that. I remember playing cricket against him when he was all of 14 years of age player for the enemy, Rich Avon. He was so hard to get out and valued his wicket more than anyone I can remember. My spy Andrew “Upstart” Nisbet passed on the news that his mate took out the prize, as for Nisbet he was certainly a tad easier to get out when in the prime of his illustrious cricket career.
Looking good…
I was back in the district last week and boy does it look A1 for this time of year. Now I can’t remember what happened yesterday, let alone years ago but I would have to guess that it’s the best spring for many a year and local farmers are expecting a bumper harvest. All we need now is the price of grain to improve.
Creeks are trickling but not the main one
The Muddy Waterholes Creek is getting as famous as our very own Murray River as locals eagerly watch the progress of the still dry creek. A few of the local creeks are trickling with some further South flowing a little faster and higher. But as for the poor old Muddy Waterholes Creek, she is still dry, but all live in hope. Any sign of her flowing please get in touch with me asap, as it’s headline news.
Carter’s still out and about
It was good to see Alec and Shirley Carter (with matching walking sticks) doing the rounds of the field days last Thursday. Their senior years don’t deter them from getting out and about and it’s great to see them keeping abreast with all the district happenings. They did mention that this little publication gives them the heads up as to what it going on, so it’s heartening to know at least someone is reading!!!
Corporate Cup this weekend
Arguably one of the biggest event’s on the “Royal’s” calendar is the Corporate Cup. Well it’s just about here and boy am I looking forward to this event. It certainly is one of the highlights of the year and I expect to see many a local turn out to this now colourful event.
That’s all
Proudly sponsored by Ausfarm Online
Another week
Boy does time fly, I can’t believe it’s nearly Ram Sale time already. Well what a pleasure it was to be back in the district last week and the added bonus for me (and everyone else for that matter) was that it rained. They talk about timely rain, you just don’t get anymore timely for crops and pastures alike. With no yield loss yet and another rain forecast for Monday (I write this on Sunday), the district should experience a booming spring and harvest for once.
One of life’s pleasures
They talk about sex, drinking, eating, travelling etc as life pleasurable things to do, but one of mine is listening…….listening to rain on a corrugated iron roof……what a sound.
There’s hope for the Muddy yet
Because the print version of this little publication comes out on a Wednesday and I write this on a Sunday then my predictions (especially rain ones) can be totally wrong. So I’ll probably get egg on my face here but what the……I recon with the amount of rain they are forecasting we could see the first running of Marnoo’s most important waterway, the Muddy Waterholes creek. It seems like it hasn’t run since Weir was a boy!!!!
Old Blue Can gets busy
Marnoo best (and only) publican Leigh “Blue Can” Foster said to me that things were tough in the pub game when I visited last Wednesday night. Well low and behold (and I’m not claiming responsibility for this) that very night they had no less than 30 customers. There were some very prominent district cockies there that night, like “Jack”, “Farmer”, “Irons” “Pest”, “Mr Asia”, “Guru” etc etc. It’s like these farmers could smell the rain on the horizon.
Sneak preview
It’s just about the biggest ticket in town getting an invite to Norm “Guru” Duxson’s ranch for a sneak viewing of the new Wallaloo and district DVD that Guru and his staff has assembled. One word “Don’t miss it” (alright that was three). It really does depict the true history of the Wallaloo, Bolangum and Kanya districts and SLF “Hall of Fame” member is to be congratulated. It will be released to the public on Sunday the 11th of October, 1pm at the “Royal”.
Ram Sales and Field Days
The tip on the street is that it is going to be a big ram selling season for the Marnoo district studs. Let’s hope that’s true as Marnoo really does have a wonderful “Stud Sheep” profile right across the country.
Disappointing time for the Nisbets
There was a time just before the final siren on Friday night when I thought of a trio of blokes (and one lady) who would be doing it as tough as anyone. Avid Bulldogs supporters, the Nisbets, “Fruity”, “Upstart”, “Pie Guts” and “Joybells” would have been so disappointed. I’m not sure if “Joybells” even barracks for the dogs but she sure as hell will feel the effects with that tardy crew around. It’s been so long and to miss by that much……Anyway the Saint have waited a long time as well. That’s footy I guess!
Parrots lost
My team the Yarrawonga “Parrots” lost the grand final to the tune of 77 points. They were clearly outplayed and outmuscled by the star studded Albury Tigers outfit.
Proudly sponsored by Ausfarm Online
Welcome
Welcome again to another week of the SLF. And what a week it was with the footy finals, the hot North wind etc etc. Things (I’m told) are looking pretty good in the district in comparison to other areas but we still need some good rain events to secure the spring and reap some goodish number off the district crops. Bring it on…
Sacred district sites
Some of you may of seen some of the plaques around the district that remember some of our history and local legend turned district historian Norm “Guru” Duxson is leading the charge busily bringing it all to fruition. On the 11th of October at 1pm interested people can meet at the “Royal” for a guided tour to all of these famous sites. They include the Kanya School, Swing Bridge, Wallaloo East School, Hay shed corner, Bolangum Railway station and the Wallaloo School. Afternoon tea will be provided after the tour. All welcome and for more info contact The Guru.
Kanya School
Over the next couple of weeks I will feature a few of theses sites. I have some written info on a few but not all, so if the Guru has info the swing bridge, hay shed corner and the Bolangum railway station can he please send it the SLF office. The Kanya School was opened in 1897 when Angnes Muir enrolled 13 pupils at Warngar. The original district name was Bolungum, but the Government surveyor called the district Warngar Parish, hence the schools name, whereas the local post office was called Kanya. The school name change to Kanya in 1923 and the school closed in 1958.
Wallaloo School
Jessie M Cox enrolled 19 pupils on the 29th of June 1880 in a single room classroom in the Parish of Wallaloo, County of Borung. The school operated half the time with Bolangum and Callawadda South for a number of years. It became full time again in 1890 but finally closed on the 27th of July 1943 owing to a lack of pupils. The school site was also the site of the Wallaloo Hall, the Wallaloo Church of England and the Wallaloo Tennis club.
Off the stick….
Former Wallaloo golfing gun Kylie McDougall is still carving up courses, this time in the drought stricken Riverina town of Hay. I’m pretty sure she hold the course record at Wallaloo and has just added the Hay course record to her impressive CV. She shot a 68 to beat the former course record of 72.
House of cards
Marnoo Football Club premiership coach John “Jumpin” Drum and his lovely wife Angela has been busy building his new abode in the river region of Horsham. We all know that when Jumpin does something it’s not in half measures and this house is no exception. It took something like two years to build and has been described as one of the biggest houses in Horsham. I’m also told that if you get the honour of a viewing put at least half a day aside. Reason, it’s bloody big, it has everything you can think of, and you will get a brick by brick description on how it was built.
Parrots in GF
My team the Yarrawonga “Parrots” have made the GF and will need a minor miracle to beat the Albury Tigers. I described the Albury Tigers as arguably the best Country team in the country and I have also been told that they are paying two of their best player more than $50,000. Bloody amazing really. For what it’s worth I told the Prez Glen “Wally” Brear that they need to do something left field to win. I’m not sure what but I’m sure that Jumpin John Drum could think of something as he loved the left field stuff. I do see however that there is rain forecast for Saturday night into Sunday and that might suit the relatively small Parrots team. However anything can happen and has in grand finals……
Proudly sponsored by Ausfarm Online
Hello Again
Welcome to another week of the SLF. This week’s edition is very short due to the lack of “happenings” around the area. But we all must try our very best at whatever we do…….so here we go.
Season tightening in some areas
The season in the Marnoo district is looking pretty good in comparison to some areas as the lack of rain is really starting to bite. So let’s hope that we get a very big rain soon so the croppers can fill the silos and more importantly fill their bank accounts.
Parrots left squawking
My team up this way, the Yarrawonga “parrots” (they are called the Pigeons but we call them the parrots) got a right royal flogging in their 2nd Semi clash with the Albury Tigers. Now I will go on the record and say that the Albury Tigers would have to be the best Country football team in the land. The brand of football they play is amazing and sort of reminds me of the Marnoo 2nds when “Big Cods” was at his peak!!!!!
Reading takes award
One of the Prized district titles has gone to leading Wallaloo East farmer Josh “Late nights” Reading. He won the Wallaloo Gold Club championship in emphatic style. He would arguably be, technically, the most complete golfer seen at the club for some years. His swing is sweet and by the sounds of it his lowly handicap of 7 is about to get lower. Well done Josh.
Corporate Cup next
Make sure to have your team in place for this years Corporate Cup. The last event on the “Royal’s” golfing calendar is going to be bigger than ever and I for one am very much looking forward to the event. May I say “Be there or be square”.
I told you it was short…….
Welcome again
Another week just flies on by as we get closer to spring and the business end of the season. I was actually back in the district last week and spoke to a couple of the leading district farmers who were “cautiously optimistic” about the rest of the season ahead.
Dam full
I had a couple at the corner shop last week and caught up with a few district leading lights, non-more so than legendary SLF Hall of Famer John “Jack” Cameron. The conversation got onto rainfall (as it does) and the lack of dam water once again. Jack rose to his feet and said “well you don’t have to worry Square Leg because your dam is full”, I looked at him quizzically, “you know Lake Mulwala, it’s full”. He mightn’t go anywhere but he is switched on is our “Jack”
Ashes Horror
You think you are doing the right thing by waking up and turning the radio to check out the score, with Hussey and Haddin in and only 200 needed you get up and turn the TV on and bang bang the wickets fall. I don’t know what it was but every time I got up to watch the Aussies, they went worse than a wheat grower in a drought. Anyway that’s the way it goes but do you recon that Ricky “Punter” Ponting will be remembered for one thing in his career when it finishes, as one of only two Aussie captains to lose the Ashes twice.
What’s happening at the Royal?
Things have got a little bit quiet at the “Royal” or it might be just me. Perhaps President Norm “Guru” Duxson has put his foot down and told his troops not to talk to the press. I guess if I want to find out what’s going on I better get there myself. Well I suppose it’s not long until my favourite event, the Corporate Cup and I can tell you the lads up this ways are already starting to talk about it.
It’ll soon be cricket
The cricket season is just around the corner as training is well and truly underway in this part of the country. I and many other will be interested in what team captain Gary “Larry” Cameron has up his sleeve as he has made an unwavering prediction that the MCC will be this years premiers. My thinking is that he is onto a couple of more-than-handy recruits. Watch this space for more.
Parrots drop a couple
My team Yarrawonga hasn’t had it all there way over the last couple of weeks having dropped a couple of games to the 1st and 3rd placed teams. However that is all forgotten as they move into the finals having finished 2nd and getting the double chance. But as my great mate and Parrots (they are actually the Pigeons but a group of us call them the Parrots) president Glen “Wally” Brear is confident that they have the cattle to pull it off. We will just have to wait and see on that one.
That’s all folks
Proudly sponsored by Ausfarm Online
Spring on the way
Once or twice last week you could feel a hint of spring-in-the-air, with the official starting date a couple of weeks away yet. I think I would be speaking on behalf of all district farmers in saying, hold the warmer weather, it can wait a month of so, it’s now the business end of the season and rain will be needed.
Last week
I missed last week and apologise for that, I just got caught up doing other things (as you do) and missed the Monday night deadline. I guess I should prioritise things more!!!
Rolling out the red carpet
The message pigeon has just landed and it was reported that about 50 Marnooians gathered to thank Dave “Smuffy” Smith on training all the Under 14 kids on a Tuesday nights at the MCG. Young Thomas “Wally” Walter thanked him for his “random act of kindness” and I’m also told that they were looking for the red carpet to roll out, but it was nowhere to be seen. The last time the red carpet was rolled out at the MCG was when luminaries KB Newall and JW Cameron officially opened the joint.
End of the line
I’m told that Chris “Tangled” Webb and his lovely wife Gaileen enjoyed themselves at the Nisbet’s the other weekend. Of course John and “Tangled” headed off to the footy (as blokes do) and they also took along former native Greg “Grog bucket” Falla. Well enter at your own risk, would be my advice to the grogster…….And yes they did a reasonable job on him as security in the train had to wake him up at the end of the line!!!!!!
Trifecta for noisy Nisbet
He may as well come and live back in Marnoo because over three weekends John “Noisy” Nisbet has done the footy thing with Duxson, Webb and then Cameron. Derek “The Mayor” Cameron was once again escorted by wifey, the lovely Donna to yet another Tupperware “love in”. But on the Saturday he managed to sneak away and caught up with Nisbet at the Collingwood/Richmond flogging. I’m told that they got into it early and I’m just wondering how The Mayor went at the black tie Tupperware “love in” ball that Saturday night.
An unexpected tour guide
I was talking to Rostran funnyman Rueben “Rostran” Cheesman the other day when he was in Yarrawonga. I caught up with him and the lovely “Wifey” and he was giving me a rundown on Newag Consulting’s trip to the black soil plains of the Darling Downs. Apparently part time Marnoo/Coolangatta/Taiwan resident Al “Aldo” Smith made an unexpected appearance on the bus and ended up being the tour guide all the way along the trip. He was tour guide because he has worked out in that country and knows it “pretty well” and took all the guys to the more interesting places. His work didn’t stop when the lads got to the Gold Coast on the last night as he continued his tour guide role by taking the crew to some more “interesting places” or so I’m told.
Jumping fever
It was sad that local swine farmer Gary “Mr Asia” Baker lost his good jumper in that race a couple of weekends ago. But as one jumping career drew to an unfortunate close another one is about to blossom. Former Callawadda Primary School Dux Sandy “The Know All” McGregor is the chief owner of Black and Bent, the most promising jumper in the land after he secure the $100K Hurdle and Sandown last Sunday. After owning million dollar earner Some are Bent McGregor is certainly in a purple patch with the jumpers. When I asked him about the push to ban jumping he quickly and confidently said, “it won’t happen”. I guess you will have to watch this space.
That’ all for this week
Proudly sponsored by Ausfarm Online
Another week
Hello and welcome to another edition of the SLF. It’s been a slow news week this week but we will try our very best.
Fruity hit’s town
I had the pleasure of hosting John “Noisy” Nisbet and his lovely wife Joybells last weekend up here in sunny Yarrawonga. It was a big weekend for all of us but non bigger than the weekend Noisy is about to have this coming weekend when Chris “Tangled” Webb and the lovely Gaileen hit Werribee. Last weekend was only an entrée.
It’s either me or the suit
Joybells tells me that John purchased a suit about a year ago when he was searching for a job of choice, at that time he was a little lighter and now has to shed some 6kg to get into the suit for his upstart son’s wedding next February. So it’s either him or the suit, I’ll back that he has to buy a new suit!!!!!
Ladies hit town
There is nothing like a couple of young ladies hitting town to keep the natives out late. You see a couple of young nieces of Gary and Jo Baker decided to visit the “Corner Shop” on Friday night and they were looked after well by a few late night natives. It was reported that one or two of the late night natives had rarely been seen ever staying out that late…Interesting
Clown trip a circus
No I haven’t heard how the trip to Queensland went for Andrew “Clown” Newall and his enterprising cropping clients. I just wanted to use that headline as I thought it sounded good. But I will get to the bottom of it as I’m guessing that it would have been entertainment plus.
That’s all
Proudly sponsored by Ausfarm Online
Welcome
It was a big week last week as it was golf tournament week, but it certainly isn’t the event it used to be when they had to turn people away. But I guess that’s the sign of the times. Anyway let’s get on with this week’s files.
View a wedding from 1949
I stumbled across this little bit of History the other day, It’s Alec and Shirley Carters wedding day on film and all in colour. Fair dinkum it’s amazing the quality of the film, so if you’re a facebook member just go to this link and you can view it http://www.facebook.com/pages/Square-Leg/63307428361 or if you’re not a face book member just go to this link on YouTube http://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fwatch%3Fv%3DPVlZEc4hy6s%26feature%3Drelated&h=f7ee34cd71533f9bd9bd8309e6933665 It’s worth having a look…
Marnoo’s premiership
You would remember the 1987 premiership in which Marnoo won in emphatic fashion. Well former native Kevin Court has sent through a link that can be viewed on YouTube as well. Go to Square Leg’s facebook site.
Lost in the bush
Talking to John “Be My” Guest the other day and he was telling me that a weird thing happened to him on the way home from golf the other night. He was just about to turn a “Bobby’s” corner when he noticed this car just sitting there, so he decided to check it out. It happened to be a lady who was from Israel was trying to find Horsham. Old “Be My” was trying to explain the directions when the boyfriend turned up (then he had to do some more explaining). Anyway to cut a long story short he headed off and they followed him and headed towards Stawell. Then when Guest was heading to Stawell to see the lovely one they were stopped again at Callawadda. All sounds a bit suss to me.
I can see them but can’t touch them
You know the feeling, when you lock your keys in the car and you can see them but obviously can’t touch them. Well this happened to golfing stalwart Louis “Chop Chop” Johnson, so a phone call to Chief Chop Lyle “Chopper” Johnson who came out to the golf club to show his break and enter skills. Well that all went fine but I’m told that a little later on the keys went missing again. I guess Chop Chop got home eventually!!!!!
Howard back
Former native Hayden “Howard” McLennan told us that his is back in Victoria after a stint in Queensland working (we didn’t know he had left). But anyway Howard thought this was a newsworthy item. So welcome back Howard…….
Trip fraught with danger
Leading cropping consultant Andrew “Clown” Newall is a little bit concerned about a couple of individuals that are attending his yearly Newag trip this week. This years trip is to the Darling Downs were the group will be looking at many thing’s related to cropping. Those couple of individuals go by the name of Stewart “Smack” MacPherson and Rueben “Rostron” Cheesman. Well on the last trip these two characters entertained all, right throughout the trip but the big Clown recons that has gone to their heads and they may try and go bigger and better this time round. He said it will be like handling a couple of out of control teenagers….Anyway I look forward to the report back form that.
Reunion planned
Former native Andrew “Upstart” Nisbet made a good suggestion the other day. He mentioned that this upcoming cricket season was the 10 year anniversary of the MCC’s last premiership. Upstart suggests we should have a reunion and I know with Gary “Larry” Cameron at the helm then it’s a short price chance that a reunion will go ahead. Other premierships could also be included. Could be a big event if it eventuates and I’m looking forward to it already. Good one Upstart.
Proudly sponsored by Ausfarm Online
Welcome again
Another week just rolls one by and I must apologise for missing last weeks SLF. I have been busy planning our release of Ausfarm Online, which is about to happen in the middle of August. I didn’t know such a project would take so long but it seems to be par for the course with these IT consultants. The new site will be great for farmers and Agricultural businesses alike. I will outline these advantages when we get closer to the mark.
What a rain
Would last weeks rain be one of the best in the last ten years as far as volume is concerned, I’m not talking about timing here as we have had more timely rains (it’s always timely these days though) but as far as volume is concerned when have we had 40 to 50 mm in a space of 3 days since the dry set in. Not too many times as far as I can remember.
Still no water in the Muddy
Some of the creeks in the area ran last week, like the Anderson, Dogtrap and the Wallaloo and also the Richardson and Avon Rivers reported flows but the most important waterway in the district the Muddy Waterholes creek is yet to see any wet stuff. Then it’s official the drought aint over yet.
Master chef makes it to Marnoo
What a hit Masterchef has been, well it actually came to Marnoo two weekends ago when Marnoo’s most eccentric person Gary “Larry” Cameron ordered the Newall siblings Renee and Braydon, to a cook off in the Marnoo Hotel “Masterchef” kitchen. So hop to it they did and produced two outstanding deep fried dishes. The patrons voted and it was a draw with Father and famous local shearer Pete giving 10 out of 10 for each dish. Could Larry of started something here????
Louis lost
Marnoo PS bus driver Louis “Chop Chop” Johnson needed here google maps when confronted with a flooded Dogtrap creek the other day. Now the lovely Louis has been driving the bus for some time so it’s been a while since the old Dogtrap was flooded but when she had to take a couple of backtracks around the Callawadda area she found out that she was somewhat lost. That was until she spoke to an unsuspecting local who promptly pointed her in the right direction.
Billy gone
I was talking to Stewart “Smacka” MacPherson the other day and he told me that Leigh “Blue can” Foster has banned a couple of songs of the duke box because they get played so often and they really annoy him. One of them is “Billy don’t be a hero” and it was noted that the song has been played 900 times over the years. Old Blue can reveal that every time the Larry Cameron heads to the duke box that song goes on and upon estimations Larry has played that song 890 times……The axing of his favourite song won’t faze him though as he will come up with another favourite!!!
Larry at the Crown
I may have got this story a little wrong but I will run with it anyway. Terrible trio Smacka, Armand “Herbie” Duxson and Larry graced Melbourne with there presence last weekend. There were many stories but one tickled my fancy. Larry’s employer “Jumpin” Johnny Drum must be paying him a packet because it was reported that Larry stayed at The Crown on Saturday night. Now the bit I’m a little vague on is whether he stayed on the couch in one of the rooms or on the couch in the foyer. The couch in the foyer sounds like a much better story to me, so we will run with that pending further investigation!!!
Golf Tournament this week
This biggest week on the golfing calendar starts this week with the Wallaloo tournament getting underway. One things for sure is that the “Whitehouse” will be rocking this week!!!!!
Thanks Dr Newall
My Yarrawonga mate Dwain “Daryl” Duxson was back in Marnoo on Thursday and went to Blue Can’s corner shop to catch up with a couple of natives and try and get a couple of stories for this struggling little publication. He tells me that he has an almighty cough over the last week and when he started barking in the bar Greg “Doc” Newall pulled him aside and told him that Stones Max would cure his ailments. Well since he decided to take Dr Newall’s advice he hasn’t had a problem. Patron Chris “Tangled” Webb was also lauding the concoction and revealed that you don’t need to be sick to drink the stuff ….
Enough from me
Proudly sponsored by Ausfarm Online
Hello again
Welcome to another week of the SLF. I was actually in the district on the weekend and enjoyed a round of golf at the “Royal” and a couple of drinks (only a couple Guru) afterwards in the “Whitehouse”. Good to be back at the round table conference. The round table conference is not for the faint hearted because there is certainly plenty of measured ribbing that takes place. Very funny.
Oh McWebby you’ve done it again
Cereal “ hot toasty” maker Chris “Tangled” Webb hit a high note last weekend after his hottest toasty campaign reached its pinnacle. Nearly all of the 20 golfers put caution to the wind an tried this weeks batch and it certainly didn’t disappoint as many a tear was shed due to the hotness of the new recipe toasties. The new secret recipe is certain to get a run next summer at the Rupanyup bowls and my concern is that it might cause a fatal…..
Mother in law get’s one over Webby
Tangled Webb’s mother in law Shirley must have been visiting her daughter, the lovely Gaileen on Saturday and it just so happened that Shirley was heading back to Navarre right at the time Webby was playing the 6th hole and right on que Shirley hit the horn to acknowledge here favourite son in law. This was right at the time when Webby was playing his approach shot and can you guess what happened next. Webb took a divot half the size of the Grand Canyon and the ball went about 3 feet. I just wonder what sort of trick Webb has in mind for Shirley the next time they cross paths…..Then again he mightn’t be game!!!
Look out Kanya Hills
We have a problem, a massive problem. You see local Wallaloo fire captain Armand “Herbie” Duxson has informed me that if my former home the Kanya Hill (Bolangum Ranges) was threatened by fire then they would be in trouble. Herbie puts it all down to the competence of the surrounding fire brigade captains. Of course at Wallaloo we have his very self, at Gre Gre we have Peter “7/11” Knights and at Beazly’s Bridge we have Rueben “Rostron” Cheesman. Herbie describes it as “a shambles” and it doesn’t really matter who is in charge at Navarre because they would have no hope. But I personally think that all these guys are up to it and the we’re all in safe hands!!!!!
Larry the entertainment again
There was a small but quality gathering for Ben Duxson’s surprise 35th birthday in Stawell last weekend and the dress theme was “American”. Well not many dressed up by our very own Gary “Larry” Cameron went as a beggar and was kitted out in all his begging gear and asking for money in exchange for his services. I won’t say what services he was asking for but Larry managed to once again entertain the masses.
Larry runs for the dictionary
At the Major Drum wedding Larry was introduced by Dwain “Daryl” Duxson as “Arguably Marnoo’s most eccentric person” of which came the usual laugh and the following “what” from Larry. But it turns out the well educated Larry (Marnoo PS and Stawell Tech) was seen scouring through the “e” section of the dictionary last Monday morning.
A day on the couch
My spies tell me that leading district Agronomist Andrew “Clown” Newall teamed up with sidekicks Stewart “Smacker” MacPherson and Dwain “Daryl” Duxson last Friday night in Horsham. Daryl was reasonably smart as he headed home before midnight but the Clown and Smacka kicked on to the wee small hours of Saturday morning. Hence both those two were consigned to the couch on Saturday for they had officially “overcatered”.
That is all
Proudly sponsored by Ausfarm Online
Here’s hoping for more rain
As I write the sun is appearing through the clouds but they tell me that it’s about to change and we can expect some rain this week. Here’s hoping because the famous gutter, the Muddy Waterholes creek aint running yet.
Larry and Daryl wows the crowd
Marnoo’s most eccentric person Gary “Larry” Cameron and his sidekick Dwain “Daryl” Duxson put on a show for all whom attended the Damian Drum/Melissa Wall wedding over the weekend. Duxson was best man and instead of delivering a traditional old boring best man’s speech he delivered a poem. The poem, simply tilted “The Major” depicted Damian’s life from go to woe. Whilst Daryl read the poem Larry acted out each scene in what was probably his finest performance yet. I have managed to snare a transcript of the poem but I can’t put into word how funny Larry was, the only thing I can go by was the amount of laughter that came for the 150 strong crowd and there was plenty…..
Here’s the poem…… “The Major”
Out Banyena way it started
7 of 8 when he parted
A farmer was born
To Dorothy and John
For it was farm work he loved
And cropping it was
30 bags he did dream
Whilst driving his machine
With great football genes
A lot was expected
And with bleached blond hair
He showed some Drum flair
But only 90 games in
Something went “ping”
For he had suffered the curse
The dreaded Drum string
His tennis was good
In attack or defence
But he had a small problem
A case of racket against fence
At cricket her tried
But it wasn’t his call
For it helps just a little
If you actually see the ball
Where’s that, where that,
At golf he did bleat
When the little round ball
Was still at his feet
But one little thing
That came to the fore
Was his distinct inability
To keep the right score
But back to the plains
Where it had forgotten to rain
And put the mighty Drum farm
Under great strain
But right on Cue
Came along something new
Chasing headers for Phil
Soon became a summer time thrill
For he was off to Queensland Harvesting
And we don’t know where he are.
But then one day
That all changed in the most ridiculous way
For commission was calling
When grain prices were falling
An agent’s life is tough
But not for the Major
Who mixes cunning with bluff
And it wasn’t to long
Before he sang his own song
and with one little click
Out the door went great Dick
Then along came Melissa
Of good stock she was born
And the slow introduction, hey
That was Damian’s way
But now with girl by his side
His ample chest filled with pride
Then along came the ring
And ringa ding ding
The Major was King
For he announced on that day
“At least I’m not gay”
The bucks show did follow
Swan Hill was the venue
For he had no say
In what happened that day
So down went the beer
And down went the rum
For we all went to witness
The great race
“The Damian Dum”
So we’re now here today
So jump up from your seat
As we all celebrate this wonderful feat
But with only one question
One final question
To make it allllll complete
Will we hear the pitter patter of tiny little feet
Until next week
