Packing his bags and saying goodbye to family and friends and then heading for Melbourne will be the first big step in Nathan Williamson’s pursuit of a career as a newly appointed AFL umpire. Well that’s what we thought! Nathan has recently secured a short-term teaching contract in Perth and will remain until that assignment is completed, traveling to Melbourne for pre-season sessions prior to the commencement of his teaching term.
Charles “Alan” Cole passed away last Wednesday. Alan was one of the members of our Yarrawonga chapter. He recently celebrated his 90th birthday with Bill Sutton, Peter Saultry and Ted Johnson traveling to Melbourne to be part of those celebrations.
Boundary umpire, Shane Thiele is a competitive beast by nature, although very lithe by stature. Shane became interested in the World Masters Games that were held recently in WA and given his veteran status, he is over 35, Shane decided to “give it a go.”
Affectionately known as Razor Ray, Canberra-raised Chamberlain is in the capital preparing for a fundraising cycle from Parliament House to Melbourne on Monday morning for GriefLine and mental health awareness.
When October 31 comes around each year all current AFL contract holders roll over to 2017 unless they have been told their time is up and so it was on the day before Cup day last week.
It is with deep sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Walter (Wal) Andrew.
On Monday the 7th of November I will be commencing a 6 day, 700km+ bike ride from Canberra to Melbourne as part of the Chamberlain Foundations RAZOR RIDE to raise money for those battling with Mental Illness and who are deeply affected by loss and grief. ‘My Story’ or the reason behind this endeavour is outlined below and I share it with you to provide context. I would also ask that you consider the following:
Five of the most talented young field umpires in the country were put through their paces by the AFL umpiring department over two days last week to look for the next contracted umpire.
Grand final field umpire Matt Stevic was announced as the All Australian field umpire for the third year in succession and for the 4th time in 5 years at the grand final cocktail party on Saturday night. Matt indicated that the announcement had taken him by surprise this year. “You cannot win these awards without the help of so many people,” said Matt when presented with his jacket by Umpires’ manager, Luke Ball. Matt went on to thank his fellow umpires, trainers, medical staff and family for their care and support over many years. Matt joins Brett Allen as the most “capped” All Australian with four gongs. Darren Goldspink and Brett Rosebury have 3 All Australians beside their names.