■ I love the footy and I love that it’s back, but what I really love is the people at the footy. The players, the officials, the fans – from Auskick to AFL. I’m lucky to be involved at all levels, and the dedication and passion of people is something to behold. The buzz around Etihad Stadium before the Bulldogs took on West Coast last Saturday night was fantastic. The bond between supporters is very special, an ice breaker and conversation starter. The tribal aspect of following a footy team will never be lost, even in the modern corporate version of the game. Whether you’re wearing a suit at the president’s dinner and sipping chardonnay or having a $3 pie in your scarf and beanie in the outer, “Carn the Dogs” means the same.
■ Brad Spicer has carved out a very successful career as a horse syndicator, his biggest success being the brilliant Star Spangled Banner. In a first for local racing, Spicer Thoroughbreds has teamed up with the Werribee Racing Club to present the Parade of Champions. Four hand-picked yearlings will be displayed on the day. The horses will be trained by well-known trainers Darren Weir, Peter Moody, David Hayes and Leon Corstens – all but Hayes will be there on the day. Among racing’s stars will be champion jockey Damien Oliver. It all unfolds at Werribee Racing Club from 10.30am-12.30pm, Sunday, April 19. For more details and to register, visit www.spicerthoroughbreds.com.au.
■ The annual E.J. Whitten Foundation E&S Trading Golf Classic is on Wednesday, April 29, at Victoria Golf Club, Cheltenham. Funds raised go to the foundation’s work in prostate cancer research. Ted Whitten junior always has a great line-up of guests and celebrities. It’s an ambrose event with plenty of prizes. For details and bookings, phone 1300 Whitten or go online to www.ejwhittenfoundation.com.au. Ted will also be guest speaker at the Hoppers Crossing Football Club sponsors’ night next week.
■ Sad to report the passing of Bob Izard, a life member of Werribee Cricket Club and a very popular man around Chirnside Park in both the football and cricket clubs. Bob worked for the Combens for many years and told me some very colourful stories for the book I’m writing for the football club. He will be sadly missed. Condolences to his family and friends.
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