• <September 2008>
• February 2009
• <19 February 2009>

Another season is about to commence. It is the club’s 50th anniversary, jubilee year or whatever you want to call it. Will this be another season where most of the games we win are by forfeit? Is the competition going to be strong this year or more to the point is there going to be a competition this year? Does anyone really care? As was once said by a rugby administrator, “After all it is only social grade”.

Yet again Burdett has indentified some potential stars for this year. They haven’t come from the club’s recent retirees from serious rugby but have been recruited through our website. Rumour has it that we have an ex Welsh schoolboy international, two ex Springboks and an All Blacks trialist. Usually Bryan’s recruits have serious flaws in their game such as can’t catch, can’t run, and won’t tackle. The big issue is whether we get Christian Jose and Jason Walsh to put in some regular appearances. They can actually play well.

Quinton Richie has just returned from Singapore. He has bulked up considerably since he last played with the Unquenchables in Melbourne. He was detained at Melbourne airport for trying to smuggle his 19 year old Filipino maid into the country. Gain one half back lose one halfback. Terry “Lover Boy” aka “Bling” McLennon is off up north to manage programs to improve the lives of the indigenous people. There is no truth to the rumour that included in his contact is a clause requiring him to demonstrate responsible intake of alcohol. Had that been the case he would staying in Melbourne to advise Gerry Harvey how to run his business. Terry has insisted on being paid in Zimbabwean currency as he believes the good times are just around the corner.

Bartalk has not yet been advised whether Boroondara Chris is taking up the mantle this year of masters’ leadership for season 2009. There has been talk on one or two putting their hands up to take on the presidency of the Masters but nothing concrete. Chris has his hands full with the Silverbacks and has done a remarkable job obtaining sponsorship for them in their quest for Masters’ games success in February down at Geelong. Perhaps the club could pay him an honorarium to swell our club’s coffers. The Unquenchables have a strong contingent of players training with the Silverbacks for the over 45 age group. Burdett has been banned from these training sessions as he has been deemed a disruptive influence.

Your last chance to get the Club History Supplement is at hand. Check out the club website for full details. The print run will be limited.

Finally a warning, be very careful what you say in front of Greg Joubert as he is now club vice president. Next thing you know he will expect to have a say in the Unquenchables team selection process.

See you at the bar!

• <September 2008>
• February 2009
• <19 February 2009>