Sportsmen's Association of Australia- Ballarat Branch

16/03/2026

February was certainly a busy month for our Association. It started with our dinner. An excellent presentation by our Guest Speaker, Paul Cleary, and other guests made it a very enjoyable and informative night. Paul has a history in athletics of both competing and coaching. After winning the Australian Under 17 long jump and triple jump he went onto represent Australia at the Pacific Conference games as an 18-year-old. A serious knee injury brought an end to his ability to compete but saw the beginning of a long and very successful coaching career. He has coached over 100 national medalists' including 36 gold medals. He has coached National champions in the 100, 200 and 400 metre sprints, long jump, triple jump and high jump as well as the shot put, discus and javelin. He is continuing to coach athletes in the jumping events.
Paul is pictured at our dinner with Lachie O’Keefe who he has trained for the past nine years. Since 2016, Lachie has successfully competed in high jump competitions across Australia and Internationally. He was a recipient of our Junior Encouragement Award in 2019. Since 2024, he has been restricted by a shoulder injury and has spent the last year recovering.

-LIFE MEMBERSHIP-
Congratulations to Sandy Murray who was awarded Life Membership of our Association at our recent Annual General Meeting. The award was presented in recognition of his 50 years of continual membership. Sandy joined in 1974 and has been a strong supporter since then. Just imagine how many meals he has eaten and guest speakers he has listened to in that time. He believes that one of the highlights was being the “victim” of Laurie Templar who, as the Sergeant of Arms, continually found reasons to fine him. Sandy was presented with the award at our February Dinner.

There are three other Life Members who also been also given more than 50 years’ service. They include Ron Plover, David Stevens and the late John Symons who were foundation members in 1964. Ron Plover, Sandy Murray &
David Stevens

-CYRIL McDonald SERVICE TO SPORT AWARD-
In 1990 the Victorian Division of the Sportsmen’s Association of Victoria decided to introduce a State Award to recognise the service given by Cyril McDonald. Cyril had been involved in the administration of the Warrnambool Division as well as the State Division for many years. The first person to receive the award was Ron Plover. This year the winner of the award is our own John O’Brien. He was presented with the award by the Victorian Division of the S.A.A., Bill Wilkins, at the recent Sports Day. John joined our Association in 2014 and has been on the Committee since 2018.
Born in Skipton, John moved to Ballarat where he attended St Pats College. It was there he developed his interest in sport. Amongst a number of jobs, he was employed by Australia Post for thirty-three years. Most of his sporting life involved both football and cricket. His football days were either playing or coaching Juniors at Y.C.W. and the Seniors at East Ballarat and Dunnstown. His cricket career started in 1954 at Y.C.W. after which he moved to Brown Hill. After he finished playing his interest turned to umpiring where he umpired over 680 games and various levels. In 1979 he was awarded Life Membership of the Brown Hill Cricket Club and then the Ballarat Cricket Association Umpires in 2002. In 2018 he was admitted into the Hall of Fame in the Ballarat Cricket Association. In 2024 he received the Senior’s Award from the City of Ballarat. John is currently the President of the Brown Hill Progress Association.

-JUNIOR ENCOURAGEMENT AWARD-
Junior Encouragement Award winner Hudson Downes was unable to attend our November Dinner due to other commitments. However, he was available to attend in February where he was presented with his plaque and voucher from SportsPower. Marcus has had an outstanding career as a sprinter in athletics and is a record holder in many 100, 200 and 400 metre events There has been a number highlights in his short career. The most recent was winning the 400 metre race from the back mark at the Stawell Gift last Easter.

-S.A.A. SPORTS DAY-
Thank you to all the Members who supported the S.A.A. raffle this year. The response was excellent and much appreciated. The good news is that first prize was won by our own Trevor Sullivan with second to David Bandy from Ballarat and third to Phil Stowe from Creswick. The other good news was our success in the bowls with John Maher, Bill Wilkins, Ross Jones and Colin Feltham retaining the bowls shield. Played in difficult conditions they were able finish the game with some excellent bowling.

John Maher, Bill Wilkins, Ross Jones
& Colin Feltham

-MARCH DINNER-

-Wednesday, 18th March, 2026-
Guest Speaker is Michael Malthouse
Michael Malthouse was recruited from North Ballarat in 1972 by St Kilda where he played 53 games. He transferred to Richmond in 1976 where he played 121 games including the 1980 premiership. He missed on the 1982 Grand Final after dislocating a shoulder in the lead up to the game. He retired in 1983 after playing 174 V.F.L games. After playing, he went onto a coaching career of 718 games, a V.F.L./A.F.L. record, spanning over 31 years from 1984 to 2015 at Footscray, West Coast, Collingwood and Carlton. This included premierships at West Coast in 1992 and 1994 and Collingwood in 2010. After retiring as a coach at the end of 2015 Michael has continued his involvement in football via the media
When- Wednesday, 18th March, 2026
Location- Ballarat Golf Club, Sturt Street, Ballarat.
Time- Pre-dinner drinks will be served at 6.00p.m. with Members to be seated by
6.30p.m. The meal will be served at 6.40p.m.
Cost- $40 which includes two-course meal. Payment at the table on the evening
Drinks At normal bar prices.
Meal- Please advise of any special dietary requirements
Dress- Jacket and Association tie.

Indications already are that there will be a large number wanting to attend this Dinner. For this reason, we are asking for an immediate response if you are intending to come. If you can, please don’t wait until the reply date

-APRIL DINNER-
“Night at the Trots”
-Thursday, 23rd April, 2026-
When- Thursday, 23rd April, 2026
Location- Ballarat Trotting Club
Time- Commencing at 6.00p.m. with members and guests to be seated by 6.30p.m.
Meal- Please advise of any special dietary requirements
Cost- $40 which includes entry, a three-course meal and a race book. Drinks at normal bar prices.
Dress- Neat casual

The S.A.A. is in the need of sponsors for a couple of the races for this trots meeting. If you or somebody you know might be interested, please contact David Poulton on to discuss what is involved. The evening is one of our main fundraisers and assists to raise the funds we need to continue to support our Juniors in sport. Thank you.

“SUPPORTING JUNIOR SPORT”
-BIRTHDAYS-
Congratulations and happy birthday to the following members who celebrate their birthdays in March-
1st- Trevor Watson 12th- Brendan Wilson
13th- Peter Muller 18th- Robert Kerr
19th- Paul James 23rd- Phillip Hill
24th- Graeme Brooks 27th- Alan Hawkes

-2026 MEMBERSHIP-
Membership fees for 2026 have increased by $5 to $30 and are now due. They can be paid at our next Dinner or through your bank

17/02/2026

-FEBRUARY 2026-
NEWSLETTER
-FROM THE PRESIDENT-
Welcome back to all our Members to 2026. We hope that you have enjoyed the Christmas and New Year break with your family and friends. Our Committee has been active in preparation for the coming year with a number of very interesting Guest Speakers already organised. Our first Dinner is on the 18th February with Paul Cleary as Guest Speaker. Paul has had a very interesting athletic career both as a competitor and more recently as a coach.

We would like to stress how important your attendance and support is. A strong turnout ensures that our Dinners are vibrant, sustainable and enjoyable for all. Take the opportunity to invite a “buddy” along. We are keen to increase our membership numbers and a guest might find that they would like to join.

Our first function for the year was the Bowls Night. Contrary to the recent warm weather we were confronted with cool and damp conditions for the third year in a row. Despite this, thirty-eight bowlers fought the conditions and enjoyed a good night. The eventual winners were Lloyd Sims, Peter Mahony and Alan Hawkes. Runners up were John Maher, Paul James, Ray Hill and Stan Haley

We are looking for members and guests who are keen to participate in the S.AA. Sports’ Day. A notice has been sent to all members giving details of the arrangements

Looking forward to catching up with you during year.
Peter Muller- PRESIDENT

-ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING-
Our 2025 Annual General Meeting was held this week with only one change. Welcome Sam Richardson to our Committee.
The Committee is President- Peter Muller
Vice-President- Bill Wilkins
Secretary- David Poulton
Treasurer- Graeme Jeffrey
Committee- John French, Ray Hill, Michael Hynes, Paul James, Peter McErvale, Ross Muller, John O’Brien, Sam Richardson, Keith Tainsh, Laurie Templar and Trevor Watson

-FEBRUARY DINNER-
-Wednesday, 18th February, 2026-
Guest Speaker is Paul Cleary
Paul has a history in athletics of both competing and coaching. After winning the Australian Under 17 long jump and triple jump he went onto represent Australia at the Pacific Conference games as an 18 year old. A serious knee injury brought an end to his ability to compete but saw the beginning of a long and very successful coaching career He has coached over 100 national medallists including 36 gold medals. He has coached National champions in the 100, 200 and 400 metre sprints, long jump, triple jump and high jump as well as the shot put, discus and javelin. He is continuing to coach athletes in the jumping events.

When- Wednesday, 18th February, 2026
Location- Ballarat Golf Club, Sturt Street, Ballarat.
Time- Pre-dinner drinks will be served at 6.00p.m. with Members to be seated by 6.30p.m. The meal will be served at 6.40p.m.
Cost- $40 which includes two-course meal. Payment at the table on the evening
Drinks At normal bar prices.
Meal- Please advise of any special dietary requirements
Dress- Jacket and Association tie.
Reply- by Sunday 15th February, 2026, or earlier if possible, including names of guest/s.
-MARCH DINNER-
-Wednesday, 18th March, 2026-
Guest Speaker is Michael Malthouse
Michael Malthouse was recruited from North Ballarat in 1972 by St Kilda where he played 53 games. He transferred to Richmond in 1976 where he played 121 games including the 1980 premiership. He missed on the 1982 Grand Final after dislocating a shoulder in the lead up to the game. He retired in 1983 after playing 174 V.F.L games. After playing, he went onto a coaching career of 718 games, a V.F.L./A.F.L. record, spanning over 31 years from 1984 to 2015 at Footscray, West Coast, Collingwood and Carlton. This included premierships at West Coast in 1992 and 1994 and Collingwood in 2010. After retiring as a coach at the end of 2015 Michael has continued his involvement in football via the media
When- Wednesday, 18th March, 2026
Location- Ballarat Golf Club, Sturt Street, Ballarat.
Time- Pre-dinner drinks will be served at 6.00p.m. with Members to be seated by 6.30p.m. The meal will be served at 6.40p.m.
Cost- $40 which includes two-course meal. Payment at the table on the evening
Drinks -At normal bar prices.
Meal-Please advise of any special dietary requirements
Dress- Jacket and Association tie.
Reply- by Sunday, 15th March, 2026, or earlier if possible, including names of guest/s.

-BIRTHDAYS-
Congratulations and happy birthday to the following members who celebrate their birthdays in February-
1st- Lindsay Haynes 2nd- Lloyd Sims
3rd- Harold Worsley 6th- Noel Deutscher
7th- Trevor Petrie 10th- Jeff Trewin
13th- Ross McCallum 23rd- Brendan Delaney
23rd- Terry Rodoni 26th- Colin Feltham-

-2026 MEMBERSHIP-
Membership fees for 2026 have increased by $5 to $30 and are now due. They can be paid at our next Dinner or through your bank

-S.A.A. RAFFLE-
Raffle books for this year’s S.A.A. Victorian Division raffle have been forwarded to our Members. They need to be returned as soon as possible certainly by the time of our next Dinner on the 18th February, 2026.
Your support to this raffle has been excellent in recent years and we hope that will continue.

-S.A.A. VICTORIAN SPORTS DAY-
A notice regarding the S.A.A. Sports Day to be held at Midlands on Sunday, 22nd February, 2026, has been forwarded to all Members. We are now looking for a reply from those intending to participate. Please advise the Secretary before Friday, 9th February, 2026.

-TROTS NIGHT-
Our Trots Night will be held on Thursday, 23rd April, 2026
We are currently in need of sponsors for each of the seven races. If you are able to or know of anybody that might be able to assist, please contact the Secretary

-COMMANDMENTS FOR SENIORS-
1. The ability to speak several languages is an asset, but the ability to keep your
mouth shut in any language is priceless!
2. When I get a headache, I take two aspirin and keep away from children just like
the bottle says.
3. Just once, I want the prompt for username and password to say, “Close enough.”
4. Becoming an adult is the dumbest thing I’ve ever done.
5. If you see me talking to myself, just move along. I’m self-employed. We’re having
a meeting.
6. Does anyone else have a plastic bag full of plastic bags or is it just me.
7. I hate it when I can’t figure out how to operate the iPad and my tech support guy
is asleep. He’s five and it’s past his bedtime.
8. Today’s three-year-olds can switch on laptops and open their favourite apps.
When I was three, I ate played in the sand.
9. Tip for a successful marriage: Don’t ask your wife when dinner will be ready while
she’s mowing the lawn.
10. So, you drive across town to a gym to walk on a treadmill?
11. Old age is coming at a really bad time.
12. If God wanted me to touch my toes, He would've put them on my knees.
13. Last year I joined a support group for procrastinators. We haven't met yet.
14. Why do I have to press one for English when you're just going to transfer me to
someone I can't understand anyway?
15. I don't need anger management. I need people to stop irritating me.
16. My people skills are just fine. It's my tolerance for idiots that needs work.
17. "On time" is, when I get there.
18. Even duct tape can't fix stupid – but it sure does muffle the sound.
19. It would be wonderful if we could put ourselves in the dryer for ten minutes, then
come out wrinkle-free...and three sizes smaller.
20. "One for the road" means peeing before you leave the house!

“SUPPORTING JUNIOR SPORT”

16/12/2025

-DECEMBER 2025-
NEWSLETTER
-2025 JUNIOR ENCOURAGEMENT AWARDS-
After a very successful year for our Association, we were able to finish on a high note in what turned out to be a very enjoyable and successful November Dinner. During the evening six Junior Sportspersons received Junior Encouragement Awards. Each were introduced to our Members and their guests by our President, Peter Muller, and then interviewed by him about their careers. The commitment each has made up to now to achieve their goals was an indication of why they have reached such a high standard. The support each receive from their families and coaches is obviously a big reason for their success. What was also very impressive was the manner in which each of them presented themselves during their interview with Peter. Each Junior received a plaque from the Ballarat Sportsmen’s Association and a $500 voucher from SportsPower and the S.A.A.
Rhys McKinley (Karate), Lucas Byrne (Basketball), Addy Ryan (Lawn Bowls), Shakira Lual (Athletics), Baden Jones (Hockey), Joseph Wardell (Touch Football).
Absent- Eliza Ashby (Basketball), Hudson Downes (Athletics)
We were very fortunate to have two of Ballarat finest athletes speak at our Dinner They were athlete Cooper Sherman and high jumper Yual Reath. Both have represented Australia at National and International Games during the year and are heading to Tokyo later in the year to represent Australa in the World Championships. Trainer Neville Downs also spoke about his involvement with Cooper and Yual. He inteviewed both which gave an insight to their careers. He also spoke of his time with a number of local athletes which he supported with a power point presentation Guest Speakers Cooper Sherman, Yual Reath and Neville Down

The following are emails received from parents who attended our November Dinner
Hi Peter
I hope you are well and have recovered from the awards night last week. I wanted to share some positive feedback with you.
I'd like to thank the Association for recognising karate amongst their recipients again, it truly does help us broaden our exposure amongst the mainstream sports. We've got so many terrific kids in our club and I am determined to submit an application every year.
We've already got another application ready for a student who competed at the 7th IKOKU World Cup in the Gold Coast on Saturday just gone and is now a World Kata Champion. Here is our facebook post if you'd like to check it out. The Ballarat Times are working on an article and I've reached out to the Courier as well; some photos are also attached. https://www.facebook.com/SouthernWarriorsMartialArts
Regarding the awards night, I thoroughly enjoyed listening to Cooper and Jual speak about their careers and aspirations, so important for young people in the room to hear their stories and what it takes to get to their level. As an instructor I resonated with a lot of it myself and what I reinforce to my students. Having only attended this year and last, Neville Downs was a standout speaker. He made his presentation relatable for the athletes and not so much about his success but more about the kids he's trained, again so interesting and relatable for the athletes in the room and their family who steer them through their journeys.
Talking about small wins and focusing on each gain was a powerful message, in a society where so many kids give up after their first try if they can't do the thing just reinforced the importance of chipping away at your goals and understanding and accepting where you are at. Hearing so many kids say 'when I'm good enough' was a highlight of the night for me. Like Neville said, everyone gets a ribbon or certificate of participation these days which makes it much more challenging to coach kids especially when they win a few events and start to think they're ready for a bigger stage.
Anyway, just a few comments from me as these three people made it such an engaging night. I also liked the stage set up this time, it worked well having the kids in little groups so no-one felt isolated up there and it gave it more of a panel feel. Whoever had the idea of getting the kids to thank their parents should be commended, amazing touch.
Kind regards
Camilla Barker- Southern Warriors Martial Arts Dojo Operator

Hi Peter,
I would just like to thank you and your team for an outstanding awards evening last night. The venue, food, speakers and hospitality were first class and fitting of the occasion.
The Association plays a huge role in encouraging young sportspersons and it's a credit to you and your members the success that many recipients have gone on to achieve.
Last night was a night that we will forever remember and cherish.
Kind regards Mike and Joey Waddell

-LES BLACKBOURN SERVICE TO SPORT AWARD-
This award was introduced in 1990 by Les when he instigated and donated a trophy to be awarded annually to recognise people for their service as an administrator and player.
This year’s winner is Sam Richardson. He was presented with plaque by our 2024 winner John O’Brien. Sam has had a career in cricket, football and gol.f
Football Career- Carngham Linton
Began in 1973 in the Under 16 grade. 70 games, 2 premierships
1977-1997- 230 Senior games, 10 grand finals, 7 winning premierships, Reserves 70 games 3 premierships.
Football Administration- Carngham Linton
President- 1991-1995, 1997-2000, 2013-2018
Secretary- 1990, 2012
Treasurer- 1997
Football Coaching- Carngham Linton
Reserves coach 1988-1990, 1 premiership, Under 17 coach 2007-2014
Football Awards- Carngham Linton
Life Membership 1990
Hall of Fame Inductee 2019, Hall of Fame Legend Inductee 2025.
Cricket Career-
Carngham Cricket Club- 1972-1978, 1994-1997 2 premierships, Secretary 1977-78,
Linton Cricket Club- 1978-1984, 2 premierships, Secretary 1982-84
Golden Point Cricket Club 1984-1993 1 premiership.
Western Plains A grade Country Week Captain 1982
Golf Career-
Member of Snake Valley Golf Club 1997-2025
Member of Victorian Chemist Golf Club 1999-2025

NEW MEMBER-
Welcome to new member Phil Hill who was nominated by John French

-BIRTHDAYS-
Congratulations and happy birthday to the following who celebrate their birthdays in December-
2nd- Keith Tainsh 8th- Ron Plover
13th- David Jolly 18th- Bill Wilkins
20th- David Poulton 25th- John O’Brien
25th- Noel Williams

-2026 S.A.A. VICTORIAN DIVISION RAFFLE-

The Victorian Division of the S.A.A. is again conducting their annual raffle. Each of our members will be sent a book of tickets to sell.
We are asking that the sold book with the money be returned on the night of our Bowls which is at the Ballarat Bowling Club on Wednesday, 21st January, 2026. If you are unable to do so, please contact David Poulton and arrange for it to be collected.
The raffle will be drawn at the S.A.A. Sports Day which is to be held at the Midlands Golf Club on Sunday, 25th February, 2026.
The support towards the raffle by our members has been outstanding in recent years. We look forward to the same this year.

-ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING-
Our Annual General Meeting is to be held on Wednesday, 4th February, 2026, at the Ballarat District Trotting Club commencing at 7.00p.m. Further details will be made available closer to that date.
-BOWLS NIGHT-
Below are details of our first function for the year, the Bowl’s Night at the Ballarat Bowling Club. We need you to reply as indicated. Looking forward to seeing you there.

When- Wednesday, 21st January, 2026.
Where- Ballarat Bowling Club. Next to the Eastern Oval.
Time- 6.00p.m. sharp.
Meal- Cold meat and salad meal will be served on your arrival.
Dress- Casual. Please wear flat soled shoes.
Bowls- Additional bowls will available for any player/s that need them.
Teams- Teams will be announced prior to the games commencing.
Cost- $25.00 includes a two-course meal and bowls. Drinks at normal bar prices.
Guests- Members are welcome to invite guests. Please advise us of their name/s
so that they can be included in the teams.
Reply - by Sunday, 18th January, 2026. (Earlier if possible)

-ANNUAL S.A.A. VICTORIAN DIVISION SPORTS DAY-
The Victorian Division S.A.A. Sports day will be held at the Midlands Golf Club on Sunday, 22nd February, 2026, and will include golf, lawn bowls and pool. The host Association is Creswick. Please set this date aside and come along and have an enjoyable day of competition with our own members and members from other Associations.
When the information of the day is received from the Creswick S.A.A. it will be forwarded to you. Please familiarise yourself with the arrangements.

From our President Peter and Committee- “Thank you to all our members, families and friends for your support in what has been another very successful year. We can look forward with confidence that 2026 will be the same”.
We wish you all a very Merry Christmas. Please stay safe and we will see you in the New Year.

-COMMANDMENTS FOR SENIORS-
01. The ability to speak several languages is an asset, but the ability to keep your mouth shut in any language is priceless!
02. Be decisive. Right or wrong, make a decision. The road is paved with flat squirrels who couldn’t make a decision.
03. When I get a headache, I take two aspirin and keep away from children just like the bottle says.
04. Just once, I want the prompt for username and password to say, “Close enough.”
05. Becoming an adult is the dumbest thing I’ve ever done.
06. If you see me talking to myself, just move along. I’m self-employed. We’re having a meeting.
07. Does anyone else have a plastic bag full of plastic bags or is it just me.
08. I hate it when I can’t figure out how to operate the iPad and my tech support guy is asleep. He’s 5 and it’s past his bedtime
09. Today’s 3-year-olds can switch on laptops and open their favourite apps. When I was 3, I ate mud.
10. Tip for a successful marriage: Don’t ask your wife when dinner will be ready while she’s mowing the lawn.
11. So, you drive across town to a gym to walk on a treadmill?
12. Old age is coming at a really bad time.
13. If God wanted me to touch my toes, He would've put them on my knees.
14. Last year I joined a support group for procrastinators. We haven't met yet.
15. Why do I have to press one for English when you're just going to transfer me to someone I can't understand anyway?
16. I don't need anger management. I need people to stop irritating me.
17. My people skills are just fine. It's my tolerance for idiots that needs work.
18. "On time" is, when I get there.
19. Even duct tape can't fix stupid – but it sure does muffle the sound.
20. It would be wonderful if we could put ourselves in the dryer for ten minutes, then come out wrinkle-free...and three sizes smaller.
21. "One for the road" means peeing before you leave the house!

Monday and Wednesday:
Young Warriors Kick Start Program - 5:15pm to 5:45pm
Kids and beginners class - 5:15pm to 6:00pm
Combined teens and adults - 6:00pm to 7.30pm

Sunday:
Kids and beginners class from 10.30am - 11.30am.

14/11/2025

NOVEMBER 2025- NEWSLETTER
FROM THE PRESIDENT
Our Guest Speaker for October was Neil Balme. Neil showed why he is one of the most popular identities in V.F.L./A.F.L. football. After joining Richmond in 1969 from Subiaco he played 169 games including premierships in 1973 and 1974. He then went onto coach Melbourne from 1993 to 1997. Following that he has made his name as an administrator with Richmond, Collingwood and Geelong and is currently a board member at the Adelaide Crows. In a very informative and sometimes humorous presentation Neil spoke of his playing days including the many opponents he met along the way and of the personalities he played with and against. He also referred to a number of incidents that occurred during career. His presentation went for well over an hour but as many said he could have kept going
A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Ballarat Football Netball League football “Ron Plover Rookie of the Year Award” to Harvey Lewis and the netball “Rising Star Award” to Tahlia Thompson. The football award was introduced in 2021 in recognition of Ron’s service to our Association since 1964 when he was a foundation member.
The netball award was introduced this year after our Association approached the Ballarat Football Netball League with a proposal that they recognise a Netball which they agreed to. Both awards are decided by the votes given by the coaches of the competing teams at the end of each game. Players must be Under 21.

NOVEMBER DINNER
“Mixed Night”
Wednesday, 19th November, 2025-
This Dinner will include the presentation of our Ballarat Branch Sports Association of Australia Encouragement Awards to eight Junior Sportspersons. Athlete Cooper Sherman and High Jumper Yual Reath will also speak on their developing sporting careers along with coach Nev Downs.
· The Les Blackbourn Service to Sport Award will also be presented at the Dinner.
When- Wednesday, 19th November October, 2025.
Location- Ballarat Golf Club, Sturt Street, Ballarat.
Time- Pre-dinner drinks will be served at 6.00p.m. with Members to be seated by 6.30p.m.
The meal will be served at 6.40p.m.
Cost- $40 which includes a three-course meal. Drinks at normal bar prices.
Meal- Please advise of any special dietary requirements
Dress- Jacket and Association tie.
Reply- David Poulton
16th November, 2025, or earlier if possible, including names of guest/s.

-BIRTHDAYS –
Congratulations and happy birthday to the following who celebrate their birthdays in November-
5th - John French 14th - Ritchie Bissett
5th - Geoff Gullock 21st- John Penhall
11th -Wayne Berry 21st - Cameron Bryce

08/10/2025

-OCTOBER 2025-

NEWSLETTER

-FROM THE PRESIDENT-
It would be very difficult to imagine what it would be like to stand in the middle of the Melbourne Cricket Ground on the day of the A.F.L. Grand Final in front of thousands of football fans. But that it is just what our guest at our September Dinner has done. Not once, but twice, in 2004 and 2007 and then to do the same on four Anzac Day games. Over twenty-six years Shane McInerney umpired 502 games V.F.L/A.F.L. in front of thousands of “knowledgeable” fans all expressing their opinion on the decision he gave.
In an excellent presentation Shane outlined his career starting in Ballarat before moving to Melbourne. It was interesting to hear the role of an umpire from the preparation during the week and on a game day. Over the years there has been a number of changes to the rules which the umpires have had to adapt. Contrary to the players, umpire had to continue with their employment as well as prepare for the game ahead. Having now retired, Shane has continued his interest with umpiring but spends a more relaxing time of a weekend with family.

“BRING A BUDDY” is the theme for our October Dinner. With an excellent speaker in Neil Balme there is a chance for our members to bring a “buddy” and introduce them to our Association. We understand that winter is usually a quiet time for our Dinners but now that many of our members have returned it is time to get back into mood and to come along and enjoy the company. To assist we a reply with the name/s of your guests A.S.A.P.
SEE YOU THERE,
Peter Muller,
President.

“MEMBER OF THE MONTH”-
Our ‘Member of the Month” for September was John O’Brien. Born in Skipton, John moved to Ballarat where he attended the St Pats College. It was there he developed his interest in sport. Amongst a number of jobs, he was employed by Australia Post for thirty-three years. Most of his sporting life involved both football and cricket. His football days were either playing or coaching Juniors at Y.C.W. and the Seniors at East Ballarat and Dunnstown.
His cricket career started in 1954 at Y.C.W. after which he moved to Brown Hill. After he finished playing his interest turned to umpiring where he umpired over 680 games and various levels. In 1979 he was awarded Life Membership of the Brown Hill Cricket Club and then the Ballarat Cricket Association in 2002. In 2018 he was awarded Hall of Fame in the Ballarat Cricket Association.
He is currently the President of the Brown Hill Progress Association.

OCTOBER DINNER

Guest Speaker is Neil Balme

-Wednesday, 15th October 2025-
Our guest speaker will be former high profile V.F.L./A.F.L. footballer and administrator Neil Balme. He is well known for his time a player with Richmond including the 1973 and 1974 Premierships and then coach at Melbourne from 1993 to 1997. Since then, he has made his name as a football administrator at several Clubs including Richmond, Collingwood and Geelong.

This will include the presentation of our fourth Ballarat Football Netball League “Ron Plover Rookie of the Year Award” to a junior footballer. This year we have introduced a “Rising Star” award for a Junior netballer in the League.

When- Wednesday, 15th October 2025.
Location- Ballarat Golf Club, Sturt Street, Ballarat.
Time- Pre-dinner drinks will be served at 6.00p.m. with Members to be seated by 6.30p.m.
The meal will be served at 7.15p.m.
Cost- $40 which includes a three-course meal. Drinks at normal bar prices.
Meal- Please advise of any special dietary requirements
Dress- Jacket and Association tie. Reply- David Poulton on 0428 281771 or email to [email protected] by Sunday, 11th
October 2025, or earlier if possible, including names of guest/s.

NOVEMBER DINNER
“Mixed Night”
-Wednesday, 19th November 2025-
This Dinner will include the presentation of our Ballarat Branch Sports Association of Australia Encouragement Awards to a number of Junior Sportspersons.

-BIRTHDAYS –
Congratulations and happy birthday to the following who celebrate their birthdays in October-

12th- Ross Jones 19th- Barry Roberts

13th- Ross Muller 29th- Richard Przewloka

17th- Lyal Denning

DAY AT THE DOWLING FOREST RACES-

-Monday 3rd November 2025-

Arrangements are under way for our Members and their guests to spend a day at the Dowling Forest Races. We need to know what response we might get so please reply to our secretary as soon as possible on 0428 281771 or [email protected]
Entry to the course is free

· We will be sitting upstairs behind the glass

· Meals will be available for purchase

· Drinks at normal bar prices