For those that know me, the month of Movember is one of my favourites in the year (besides AFL finals in September...).
Movember in short, is a month for blokes like me to grow a mo, fundraise and basically look silly for a great cause.
Movember was first founded in Melbourne (Australia) 2003 and with just a couple of mates, word spread of their fundraising efforts and more and more wanted to join. Since then it has over 1.9million Mo Bro's and Mo Sista's... Australia, New Zealand, US, Canada, the UK, South Africa, Ireland, Finland, the Netherlands, Spain, Denmark, Norway, Belgium and the Czech Republic all have formal registers online for everyone to join. Its also rumoured that there are people joining and fundraising from Russia to Dubai, Hong Kong to Antarctica, Rio de Janeiro to Mumbai!
Since then a number of celebrities have also joined in support, the odd couple will do it in the US but we have a number of ones joining in Australia which is awesome!
Me, my journey began in 2006 when i heard alot of blokes from work talking about it the year before - some were thinking of doing it so i decided to form a team at work called, Mo Wars - Episode 1 - The Phantom Mo...
The idea was to get us to grow mo's and then dress up as Star Wars characters at the gala event at the end of Movember... Idea was great, for me... pity i'm the only Star Wars fan at my work, so we continued to go with the theme however noone would dress up haha...
Started off strong and we had over 14 participants, some found it hard, both growing a mo as well as fundraising for donations. I had a stellar year through organising Melbourne Cup Sweeps as well as a pre drinks function before the gala party. Sweeps is where we make the donations.. Funny thing about Melbourne Cup, everyone wants the favourites and then the others win.. so people go nuts and buy as many as possible, me i end up spending way too much and never win...
I managed to raise over $1k for that first year which was awesome, since then i've only been able to get over the $1k mark three times however have pushed around the $500,$600 & $800 mark on the other occasions. I haven't kept a good tally however believe i have raised approx $5k since i first joined which i love, can't wait to one day reach $10k & $20k...
Our team continued the themes but last few years many have dropped off, to the point where in 2010 we only had 2 Mo Bro's and 1 Mo Sista... Dark times for our team but we have bolstered the group by extending abroad to our parent company and recruiting members in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and Tasmania... We now go by a new name "Team IOOF" however parts of me still refers to Mo Wars... Our team roughly raises approx $5k each year so I believe we've raised around $20k in the six years (allowing for very lean years with hardly anyone joined...)
If your reading this I urge you to get involved somehow, be it by joining and growing a mo as a Mo Bro, join as a Mo Sista and help raise funds and awareness or just simply donate what you can to a participant.
The more we get participating and donating the bigger this event becomes, the more funds the receipients receive to help fund the research and support programs in place to help those affected by Prostate Cancer and Male Depression.
Hey at the end of the day for us participants its a great laugh, some of us can grow big hairy monsters whilst some can only grow what we commonly refer too as a "Lame Mo"...
But its all great fun, we all have a laugh and help raise as much as we can.
So in that month of Movember, keep an eye out for the charity, join up wherever you are in the world by jumping on www.movember.com register a team and go from there, they give you all the tools to email your sponsors, connect via facebook or twitter, print out business cards and posters as well as give out some great prizes both locally and globally for the best and worst Mo's, best themed Mo etc...
If you'd like more information about Movember or would like to know the History and more about receipients such as Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia and BeyondBlue then head to www.movember.com and go from there
Good luck - and i hope to see you all joined up as a Mo Bro or Mo Sista soon (Or one of our donators...)
Sunday, August 26, 2012
Thursday, August 16, 2012
Stellar Career
Sadly two much loved players have decided to call it a day at the Richmond Football Club. May not be the last this year to do the same however it is sad to see them go.
Brad Miller, was brought across from Melbourne after the Demons discarded him in a bid to head to a "Youth" policy. Brad was first drafted by the demons in 2001 using their pick number 55.
He ended up playing 139 games and kicked 89 goals for the Demons before being shown the door and ending up with the Tigers for one last go at AFL.
Brad had an interesting career at Tigerland, for me personally, he was awesome last year, another focal point in forward, took some great marks and gave presence.
Unfortunately this didn't carry over into this year and Brad was often vacant from the action, missed alot of shots on goal and sadly lost his spot a number of times to younger players.
In saying that though i'm sad he has gone, i often thought he was exactly what we need at centre half forward, we need someone to get up there, cement the spot and then take some pressure off Jack Riewoldt. Tyrone Vickery is looking to be the man for that job, or he might move to FF and Jack to CHF and let him roam... either way now Brad has gone I think this is the role Ty will be groomed for.
Kelvin Moore, originally taken in the 2003 rookie draft earnt his promotion in 2004 and had the makings of a great backman.
2008 was his breakout year for me, cemented his spot in Full Back and took on the leagues best forwards, sadly was injured in 2010 and never really was able to get back as setbacks kept hitting.
To his credit he kept working hard with rehab and earnt his recall this year playing 3 games however lost his spot after the Tigers shock loss to Carlton with seconds to go..
I'm shocked Kelvin has decided to pull the pin however good luck to him and to Brad on their life after football. The time they have been with us was great and they will be missed by the players club and Tiger faithful.
Hopefully Brad will keep with the club in some capacity and help mentor the youngsters for the years to come.
Yes, The Tiger is Stirring, just when our breakout year will be i'm not sure, but can sense its not far off...
Brad Miller, was brought across from Melbourne after the Demons discarded him in a bid to head to a "Youth" policy. Brad was first drafted by the demons in 2001 using their pick number 55.
He ended up playing 139 games and kicked 89 goals for the Demons before being shown the door and ending up with the Tigers for one last go at AFL.
Brad had an interesting career at Tigerland, for me personally, he was awesome last year, another focal point in forward, took some great marks and gave presence.
Unfortunately this didn't carry over into this year and Brad was often vacant from the action, missed alot of shots on goal and sadly lost his spot a number of times to younger players.
In saying that though i'm sad he has gone, i often thought he was exactly what we need at centre half forward, we need someone to get up there, cement the spot and then take some pressure off Jack Riewoldt. Tyrone Vickery is looking to be the man for that job, or he might move to FF and Jack to CHF and let him roam... either way now Brad has gone I think this is the role Ty will be groomed for.
Kelvin Moore, originally taken in the 2003 rookie draft earnt his promotion in 2004 and had the makings of a great backman.
2008 was his breakout year for me, cemented his spot in Full Back and took on the leagues best forwards, sadly was injured in 2010 and never really was able to get back as setbacks kept hitting.
To his credit he kept working hard with rehab and earnt his recall this year playing 3 games however lost his spot after the Tigers shock loss to Carlton with seconds to go..
I'm shocked Kelvin has decided to pull the pin however good luck to him and to Brad on their life after football. The time they have been with us was great and they will be missed by the players club and Tiger faithful.
Hopefully Brad will keep with the club in some capacity and help mentor the youngsters for the years to come.
Yes, The Tiger is Stirring, just when our breakout year will be i'm not sure, but can sense its not far off...
Sunday, August 12, 2012
Perfect Coffee?
Hi All,
I wanted to let you all know of a little secret i've discovered in my new view to all things coffee..
I stumbled upon this little coffee machine whilst on a journey to find a new TV. Its the MAP Perfecto Capsule Machine....
Cost only $99 and is a perfect way to plunge headfirst into making expresso coffee and yummy cappuccino's...
The Pods for this machine come in 4 different styles, your Strong, Medium or Weak but also have a Hot Chocolate Pod for those Chocco lovers!!
Personally i love the Strong & Medium pods, one packet costs $6.95 and you get 10 pods. Not bad considering when i buy a coffee from the shop next to my work, a large costs $4.50... now i'm only paying $0.695 per cappuccino...
This machine is so easy to use, simply fill up the water tank, turn on, insert pod and select the size of coffee you want to make...
Beauty of this machine also is it comes equipted with a frother so you can froth your own milk and not have to worry about having to buy one later...
So, here is the machine, I got mine from Harvey Normans for $99, not sure if its still at that price but go and check out, also seen it at the Good Guys too...
Regards
Bo Gas
I wanted to let you all know of a little secret i've discovered in my new view to all things coffee..
I stumbled upon this little coffee machine whilst on a journey to find a new TV. Its the MAP Perfecto Capsule Machine....
Cost only $99 and is a perfect way to plunge headfirst into making expresso coffee and yummy cappuccino's...
The Pods for this machine come in 4 different styles, your Strong, Medium or Weak but also have a Hot Chocolate Pod for those Chocco lovers!!
Personally i love the Strong & Medium pods, one packet costs $6.95 and you get 10 pods. Not bad considering when i buy a coffee from the shop next to my work, a large costs $4.50... now i'm only paying $0.695 per cappuccino...
This machine is so easy to use, simply fill up the water tank, turn on, insert pod and select the size of coffee you want to make...
Beauty of this machine also is it comes equipted with a frother so you can froth your own milk and not have to worry about having to buy one later...
So, here is the machine, I got mine from Harvey Normans for $99, not sure if its still at that price but go and check out, also seen it at the Good Guys too...
Regards
Bo Gas
Saturday, August 11, 2012
Idea for new PS3 Game
For those that know, I love my PS3, at the moment i'm hooked on Call of Duty 3 Modern Warfare 3...
Its very addictive and love playing online against others across the world, love the fact too i can catch up with friends and family having a game too and chatting with the headset.
Recently i bought Dead Island and also Red Dead Redemption, both fantastic zombie games.
What i would like though is a game that is similar and also similar to the TV show The Walking Dead.
But what i want to get is a game which you have the chance to rebuild, find a safe location such as the Prison in Series 3 of WD but then give the user and survivors the chance to venture out and elimate the infestation...
So as an example, a city is full of zombies yet theres a great safe location/s closeby, let the user establish a safe zone, fortify it so it can't be penetrated and then let them venture out, not as storyline but free play, get out to targets and then take over places and big cities...
Yep, alot of time would be spent developing such a game, would be an awesome multiplayer too but i yearn for more than kill zombies only, i want to be incharge of ensuring survival whilst eliminating the threat....
Make it America cities only, whatever, just give me the chance to secure Seattle on my way to New York!
Its very addictive and love playing online against others across the world, love the fact too i can catch up with friends and family having a game too and chatting with the headset.
Recently i bought Dead Island and also Red Dead Redemption, both fantastic zombie games.
What i would like though is a game that is similar and also similar to the TV show The Walking Dead.
But what i want to get is a game which you have the chance to rebuild, find a safe location such as the Prison in Series 3 of WD but then give the user and survivors the chance to venture out and elimate the infestation...
So as an example, a city is full of zombies yet theres a great safe location/s closeby, let the user establish a safe zone, fortify it so it can't be penetrated and then let them venture out, not as storyline but free play, get out to targets and then take over places and big cities...
Yep, alot of time would be spent developing such a game, would be an awesome multiplayer too but i yearn for more than kill zombies only, i want to be incharge of ensuring survival whilst eliminating the threat....
Make it America cities only, whatever, just give me the chance to secure Seattle on my way to New York!
Junior Footy
As you may have read from an earlier blog i'm a football coach of an Under 9's football team.
Great job and i do enjoy it, my son plays so i get the best of both worlds.
As much as it is a great thing coaching man it has its downsides, i won't name names and stuff or go into the club i'm from as i'm sure i'd get into trouble.
One thing that erks me and i know associations around the place are trying to stamp this out is what we're here for.
As far as i'm concerned, my job is to develop, encourage and give everyone a fair go. Lets look at this again:
Develop: Each and every child needs development, regardless of skill level.
Encourage: Every player needs encouragement, good morale means players keep coming back wanting to play.
Fair go: We're not playing for sheep stations, at Under 9 level, gametime and development should be equal.
Funny as i say the above and believe i am doing the above to the best of my ability, one of the parents of one of our best players believes at this age group we should be playing the best and only the best, others should be on the bench...
I have a golden rule in under 9's, doesn't matter who you are you have equal bench ownership. It's only Under 9's, we don't see premiership points or finals until Under 11's, so for now it should be all about development and encouraging players to want to play this great game.
So this mornings game I've set up my team, staggered most of the best throughout the field so to try and spread as best we can and encourage more to get involved. I try to have atleast one of the best off on the bench each quarter to try and not be too undermanned.
One of the dads comes up and questions why his son is on the best and starts harping on about why the best only should be fielded... Wow, at Under 9's level we have parents putting all of their eggs and hopes on an 8 year old boy. Yes he is a good player but you know what, if half the time he turned up to football training and gameday, listen to the coach and conform into our TEAM aspect we are trying to encourage, as well as listen to our criticism and advice rather than the parents only advice then we may have a great little player.
Instead I have a player who distances himself away from the group, gets over worked by the dad who makes him train equivilent of a SANFL or higher player, yet wonders why the boy often looks flat and not himself...
Ah the joys of coaching, never going to impress everyone but i guess if you have a list of 19 and each week majority train and each week 19 all want to play then we must be doing something right.
Just wish some parents just were'n't so full on and putting their kids under such immense pressure, the idea of this great sport is to nurture the early, keep them interested and involved then as the grades start getting more full on then we train them for the future, not start at such an early age and burn them out before they can make big leagues!
One golden rule parents should realise also, Just because a child dominates at junior level it doesn't guarantee that child will make the AFL when older.
When i played junior footy i played alongside and agains the likes of Michael Doughty (Crows), Nathan Eagleton (Bulldogs), Jason Bevan (Pies).
I never would have thought Mick Doughty would have made AFL, at school he was small and not a prolific ball getter. He worked hard at Reynella, built his game, muscled up and moved to South Adelaide, then was recognised by the Crows. Imagine if every coach that had a player not getting much of the ball turned players like this early on away....
Mick's now a fantastic player, wish he was at the Tigers!
The other thing is also, there were 100's of players i imagined would make AFL and never did... I always thought Nathan Eagleton would, always been a gun... but others, well how they didn't go on i'll never know.
My Point is, If your not playing for premiership points at junior level, don't lower your eyes to the rest of your list, develop them, enjoy coaching and watch with admiration and pride as they develop into players who love the game. Better they stay in AFL loving the sport then hating it, not watch then turn to Soccer....
Great job and i do enjoy it, my son plays so i get the best of both worlds.
As much as it is a great thing coaching man it has its downsides, i won't name names and stuff or go into the club i'm from as i'm sure i'd get into trouble.
One thing that erks me and i know associations around the place are trying to stamp this out is what we're here for.
As far as i'm concerned, my job is to develop, encourage and give everyone a fair go. Lets look at this again:
Develop: Each and every child needs development, regardless of skill level.
Encourage: Every player needs encouragement, good morale means players keep coming back wanting to play.
Fair go: We're not playing for sheep stations, at Under 9 level, gametime and development should be equal.
Funny as i say the above and believe i am doing the above to the best of my ability, one of the parents of one of our best players believes at this age group we should be playing the best and only the best, others should be on the bench...
I have a golden rule in under 9's, doesn't matter who you are you have equal bench ownership. It's only Under 9's, we don't see premiership points or finals until Under 11's, so for now it should be all about development and encouraging players to want to play this great game.
So this mornings game I've set up my team, staggered most of the best throughout the field so to try and spread as best we can and encourage more to get involved. I try to have atleast one of the best off on the bench each quarter to try and not be too undermanned.
One of the dads comes up and questions why his son is on the best and starts harping on about why the best only should be fielded... Wow, at Under 9's level we have parents putting all of their eggs and hopes on an 8 year old boy. Yes he is a good player but you know what, if half the time he turned up to football training and gameday, listen to the coach and conform into our TEAM aspect we are trying to encourage, as well as listen to our criticism and advice rather than the parents only advice then we may have a great little player.
Instead I have a player who distances himself away from the group, gets over worked by the dad who makes him train equivilent of a SANFL or higher player, yet wonders why the boy often looks flat and not himself...
Ah the joys of coaching, never going to impress everyone but i guess if you have a list of 19 and each week majority train and each week 19 all want to play then we must be doing something right.
Just wish some parents just were'n't so full on and putting their kids under such immense pressure, the idea of this great sport is to nurture the early, keep them interested and involved then as the grades start getting more full on then we train them for the future, not start at such an early age and burn them out before they can make big leagues!
One golden rule parents should realise also, Just because a child dominates at junior level it doesn't guarantee that child will make the AFL when older.
When i played junior footy i played alongside and agains the likes of Michael Doughty (Crows), Nathan Eagleton (Bulldogs), Jason Bevan (Pies).
I never would have thought Mick Doughty would have made AFL, at school he was small and not a prolific ball getter. He worked hard at Reynella, built his game, muscled up and moved to South Adelaide, then was recognised by the Crows. Imagine if every coach that had a player not getting much of the ball turned players like this early on away....
Mick's now a fantastic player, wish he was at the Tigers!
The other thing is also, there were 100's of players i imagined would make AFL and never did... I always thought Nathan Eagleton would, always been a gun... but others, well how they didn't go on i'll never know.
My Point is, If your not playing for premiership points at junior level, don't lower your eyes to the rest of your list, develop them, enjoy coaching and watch with admiration and pride as they develop into players who love the game. Better they stay in AFL loving the sport then hating it, not watch then turn to Soccer....
Friday, August 10, 2012
Telstra T-Box
No this isn't a senseless advertising plug but if Telstra want to throw stuff my way well woohoo
Thought i'd let u know my experience so far with the T-Box
I previously had Foxtel so I could watch my beloved Richmond FC but we loved watching channels like Fox 8, TV1, Lifestyle etc.
But at $90 a month really just so I could watch footy live each week it was time we looked at other options...
I can't just go the games as I live in Adelaide, hard being a supporter of an interstate team sometimes..
While walking past one of the Telstra stores I noticed T-Box advertised again and finally thought I'd check it out, service was good and I soon learned that u can get Foxtel cheaper through your T-Box! Most of the channels from foxtels usual service are on there only just missing a few but u barely notice.
Couple of downsides though but these are easily overlooked...
1) the foxtel through the T-box is run over your Internet broadband connection, so the quality isn't as good sometimes especially with some sports...
2) if your Internet is down tough luck no foxtel will come through until
It's back up... Which can be frustrating especially in the 4th quarter and Tigers just infront...
But in all honesty, the two above I barely notice anymore, the quality u can put up with as I'm still getting it for half the cost of normal foxtel! Connection issues are really rare and I put it down for me as having an old modem which is due for upgrade...
So from me, an Adelaide based Richmond supporter who loves watching every game and the occasional reality or tv show it's a massive thumbs up from me..
Yeah it has it's minor negatives but at half the cost of normal foxtel and I can run it just like foxtel IQand did I mention it has a massive hard drive for recording stuff!!
Check it out and compare, you won't be disappointed.
Thought i'd let u know my experience so far with the T-Box
I previously had Foxtel so I could watch my beloved Richmond FC but we loved watching channels like Fox 8, TV1, Lifestyle etc.
But at $90 a month really just so I could watch footy live each week it was time we looked at other options...
I can't just go the games as I live in Adelaide, hard being a supporter of an interstate team sometimes..
While walking past one of the Telstra stores I noticed T-Box advertised again and finally thought I'd check it out, service was good and I soon learned that u can get Foxtel cheaper through your T-Box! Most of the channels from foxtels usual service are on there only just missing a few but u barely notice.
Couple of downsides though but these are easily overlooked...
1) the foxtel through the T-box is run over your Internet broadband connection, so the quality isn't as good sometimes especially with some sports...
2) if your Internet is down tough luck no foxtel will come through until
It's back up... Which can be frustrating especially in the 4th quarter and Tigers just infront...
But in all honesty, the two above I barely notice anymore, the quality u can put up with as I'm still getting it for half the cost of normal foxtel! Connection issues are really rare and I put it down for me as having an old modem which is due for upgrade...
So from me, an Adelaide based Richmond supporter who loves watching every game and the occasional reality or tv show it's a massive thumbs up from me..
Yeah it has it's minor negatives but at half the cost of normal foxtel and I can run it just like foxtel IQand did I mention it has a massive hard drive for recording stuff!!
Check it out and compare, you won't be disappointed.
Thursday, August 9, 2012
Adelaide Metro
It's in strife, Adelaide Metro know it, the local government know it and we the passengers and frequent users have been spewing about it for too long...
I have a plan which i've previously sent to both parties of the SA Government which i feel could really work, it involves utilising free space, reducing bus activity in the CBD and will inturn help reduce the peak hour traffic congestion as well as the environment.
Ok, I'm a frequent user of both the G10 and the 222, these buses run on both Prospect Road & Main North Road respectively.
5+ years ago, the G10 ran perfect (known then as 182), its apart of a 15 minute go zone, but back then if you missed your bus it was more like an every 7 minute go zone. So if you wandered up to the stop and just missed it - no worries, one would be not far down the road...
Now the G10 is all about schedule. It is always late and extremely inconsistent. One of the frustrating things is most mornings around 8.00 - 8.15am you will be there waiting for the correct bus to come, instead 3 will turn up. Now, one of these is late, one on time and the other super late. Its the super late one i'm waiting for, but how do you know? Well easy, the super late will zoom past us with the bus driver pointing to the other buses. The early one then comes next with on time just behind it. Early picks us up and proceeds slowly down to each stop then decides to slow down and stop outside the Women's & Children's Hospital for a ten minute stop whilst it catches up to schedule.
So in the above scenario, you have a bus load of extremely angry people who are already late and are now even later because of some moron's idea of scheduling.
Ticket prices have of course increased too over this time even though the steady downhill ride Adelaide Metro's service has gone as well. But this is normal considering all living costs are rising.
Back when i first completed a short study, i estimated approx 45 buses in 15 minutes were coming from both Prospect Road and Main North Road, this may have increased since then but thats a staggering 45 buses pushing through King William Street during the busiest periods.
How can we stop this and ease conjestion?
We part follow Melbourne's excellent public service. Over the past few years Adelaide has re-introduced the Tram system however is currently only doing one line.
My proposal is simple, extend the tram line from the corner of King William Street and North Terrace all the way up through North Adelaide along O'Connell Street. At the end of O'Connell Street are 4 separated parklands. One of these vacant lands fall in between the major roads Prospect Road and Main North Road.
What i think we could do is set up a Tram station and a Bus station, all buses heading down these main roads will head straight to this bus station, tram's can then feed from there and take the waiting passengers via the environmentally safer trams.
So, my idea is then that we can take away over 100 buses from the Adelaide CBD, as during peak hour it takes ages just to progress past Parliament House just to get to Pirie Street....
Yes there are a few downsides...:
1) One trip now turns into dual services
2) Parklands will be used
Thats it for me for downsides cos for me its all positive..
1) Traffic congestion will reduce dramatically, just from these two major roads.
2) Polution will decrease in the CBD
3) Tram stations fitted with ETA monitors can keep passengers up to date on how long til next tram, just like melbourne does it...
So if you like this idea feel free to send the blog link to your local member or get this viral, more trams in adelaide means better, cheaper, environmentally safer and more reliable public transport in adelaide...
Beauty of it is, just the tip of the iceberg...
I have a plan which i've previously sent to both parties of the SA Government which i feel could really work, it involves utilising free space, reducing bus activity in the CBD and will inturn help reduce the peak hour traffic congestion as well as the environment.
Ok, I'm a frequent user of both the G10 and the 222, these buses run on both Prospect Road & Main North Road respectively.
5+ years ago, the G10 ran perfect (known then as 182), its apart of a 15 minute go zone, but back then if you missed your bus it was more like an every 7 minute go zone. So if you wandered up to the stop and just missed it - no worries, one would be not far down the road...
Now the G10 is all about schedule. It is always late and extremely inconsistent. One of the frustrating things is most mornings around 8.00 - 8.15am you will be there waiting for the correct bus to come, instead 3 will turn up. Now, one of these is late, one on time and the other super late. Its the super late one i'm waiting for, but how do you know? Well easy, the super late will zoom past us with the bus driver pointing to the other buses. The early one then comes next with on time just behind it. Early picks us up and proceeds slowly down to each stop then decides to slow down and stop outside the Women's & Children's Hospital for a ten minute stop whilst it catches up to schedule.
So in the above scenario, you have a bus load of extremely angry people who are already late and are now even later because of some moron's idea of scheduling.
Ticket prices have of course increased too over this time even though the steady downhill ride Adelaide Metro's service has gone as well. But this is normal considering all living costs are rising.
Back when i first completed a short study, i estimated approx 45 buses in 15 minutes were coming from both Prospect Road and Main North Road, this may have increased since then but thats a staggering 45 buses pushing through King William Street during the busiest periods.
How can we stop this and ease conjestion?
We part follow Melbourne's excellent public service. Over the past few years Adelaide has re-introduced the Tram system however is currently only doing one line.
My proposal is simple, extend the tram line from the corner of King William Street and North Terrace all the way up through North Adelaide along O'Connell Street. At the end of O'Connell Street are 4 separated parklands. One of these vacant lands fall in between the major roads Prospect Road and Main North Road.
What i think we could do is set up a Tram station and a Bus station, all buses heading down these main roads will head straight to this bus station, tram's can then feed from there and take the waiting passengers via the environmentally safer trams.
So, my idea is then that we can take away over 100 buses from the Adelaide CBD, as during peak hour it takes ages just to progress past Parliament House just to get to Pirie Street....
Yes there are a few downsides...:
1) One trip now turns into dual services
2) Parklands will be used
Thats it for me for downsides cos for me its all positive..
1) Traffic congestion will reduce dramatically, just from these two major roads.
2) Polution will decrease in the CBD
3) Tram stations fitted with ETA monitors can keep passengers up to date on how long til next tram, just like melbourne does it...
So if you like this idea feel free to send the blog link to your local member or get this viral, more trams in adelaide means better, cheaper, environmentally safer and more reliable public transport in adelaide...
Beauty of it is, just the tip of the iceberg...
Star Wars
Well my next passion besides football and baseball is of course Star Wars.
Whats not to love about it, it gives us something else out there that is magical and fantasy.
From the simple start of episodes 4, 5 & 6, to the new movies 1, 2 & 3 where we started to see more life into the Jedi order, more powers and different species and worlds to explore.
As good as 4, 5 & 6 where, i much prefer the new ones to the old. Reason being, i love the new characters, new worlds and new powers the new movies give. The Star Wars universe is massive and only just minutely shown in the original trilogy. The new trilogy helps explore it all but for lovers like myself its still not enough.
So how does lucas arts help us, they deliver a kids tv show... BRILLIANT!!! I love this nearly as much as the movies, here we develop an understanding of not only the Jedi & Sith but also the clone troopers and species from other worlds. Here we can get a fix for Jedi which weren't shown as much in the movies such as Kit Fisto and Plo Koon.
I reckon the tv show gives life to so many more possibilities such as developing a 7th, 8th and 9th movie in which this much beloved theme can continue with great strength, give Luke more powers, show us how Leia grew into a Jedi, show the transition for the children of Leia develop into strong beings. The Emperor ressurecting etc.
The possibilities are endless and Lucas arts can continue to create and build for many years to come, heck they could also tap into the Knights of The Old Republic such as the latest online game SWTOR, the mini trailers they made are the best i've seen and could be made into a proper show - god i hope they do...
Some will argue you can't beat the original trilogy, i strongly disagree, the latest trilogy and all the recent work including film, television and games breed new life to Star Wars!
Whats not to love about it, it gives us something else out there that is magical and fantasy.
From the simple start of episodes 4, 5 & 6, to the new movies 1, 2 & 3 where we started to see more life into the Jedi order, more powers and different species and worlds to explore.
As good as 4, 5 & 6 where, i much prefer the new ones to the old. Reason being, i love the new characters, new worlds and new powers the new movies give. The Star Wars universe is massive and only just minutely shown in the original trilogy. The new trilogy helps explore it all but for lovers like myself its still not enough.
So how does lucas arts help us, they deliver a kids tv show... BRILLIANT!!! I love this nearly as much as the movies, here we develop an understanding of not only the Jedi & Sith but also the clone troopers and species from other worlds. Here we can get a fix for Jedi which weren't shown as much in the movies such as Kit Fisto and Plo Koon.
I reckon the tv show gives life to so many more possibilities such as developing a 7th, 8th and 9th movie in which this much beloved theme can continue with great strength, give Luke more powers, show us how Leia grew into a Jedi, show the transition for the children of Leia develop into strong beings. The Emperor ressurecting etc.
The possibilities are endless and Lucas arts can continue to create and build for many years to come, heck they could also tap into the Knights of The Old Republic such as the latest online game SWTOR, the mini trailers they made are the best i've seen and could be made into a proper show - god i hope they do...
Some will argue you can't beat the original trilogy, i strongly disagree, the latest trilogy and all the recent work including film, television and games breed new life to Star Wars!
What makes me tick...
Not sure if you've noticed, i started my previous blogs with Ok... whoops..
Anyhow, as i said, i'm 33, married to my darling wife of 3 years and have two wonderful children aged 8 & 5.
My oldest is in year 3 and doing really well, part of the gifted program at his school. Loves his sports and currently plays Football, Soccer, Baseball and Swimming.
My youngest has just started her first term of school and is loving the transition from kindergarten, not apart of the gifted program yet but pretty sure she will follow in her brothers footsteps. She's currently just getting into her sport and is doing Calisthenics and Swimming but wants to join us at baseball soon too.
Me I coach my boys Under 9's footy team and Little League Minors Baseball team, i play also.
My wife so far has managed to put up with my footy obsession, god help her if we ever win a flag! She drowns out the weekly football drama's with her love of reading, god knows how she reads with us loud children in the house...
Anyhow, as i said, i'm 33, married to my darling wife of 3 years and have two wonderful children aged 8 & 5.
My oldest is in year 3 and doing really well, part of the gifted program at his school. Loves his sports and currently plays Football, Soccer, Baseball and Swimming.
My youngest has just started her first term of school and is loving the transition from kindergarten, not apart of the gifted program yet but pretty sure she will follow in her brothers footsteps. She's currently just getting into her sport and is doing Calisthenics and Swimming but wants to join us at baseball soon too.
Me I coach my boys Under 9's footy team and Little League Minors Baseball team, i play also.
My wife so far has managed to put up with my footy obsession, god help her if we ever win a flag! She drowns out the weekly football drama's with her love of reading, god knows how she reads with us loud children in the house...
Richmond FC Report card
Ok here is my report card and comments for each player, going to focus mainly on those i've seen in the seniors this year as i don't see the games for Coburg:
Will rate A - F
Trent Cotchin: A+, Brownlow Medalist in the making, hard to fault his game and i often show my under 9's his game for someone they can watch and mirror
Dylan Grimes: B-, Great first year but hit by alot of injuries during last half of the year, would have been an B+.. Raw talent and will be a great Tiger defender to watch as he develops.
Brett Deledio: A-, Brett's a funny one for me, I often don't notice him in the games unless its a forward 50 entry, does play very well off half back but can sometimes become too quiet when game gets close
Dustin Martin: C+, Dusty should have earned a A- or higher this year, let off field issues control his season and prob friendship with a recent axed player has led him to not be as prominent this season. If he gets his shite together and works hard he will be one of the true guns and legends of this club.
Shaun Grigg: B, Prominent very early on yet still manages around 30 touches a game regardless of who we're playing. Great acquisition from Carlton and I love being apart of Team Towball!
Matt Dea: C+, Still young and learning, has had some game time this year and probably harshly used as one of the scapegoats for the Carlton loss.
Jack Riewoldt: B-, Hasn't had the impact of 2010 but is still coming 2nd in the goal kicking ladder, if he had kicked straighter this year he would be leading. Handy to have $10 on as 1st goal kicker for games, he did it over 8 times this year (not financial advice...)
Shane Edwards: C-, Had patches of greatness earlier in the year but since been very quiet, as a small forward needs to have more impact if he's to remain a full time Tiger.
Jake Batchelor: C+, Has the potential to be a great backman, can be sloppy with disposal and staying on his player however still very young and developing.
David Astbury: D-, limited gametime this year but will be one to watch as he develops also
Brad Miller: F+, Dissapointing year by Brad, unfortunately hasn't given that marking option or pressence we need and has been dropped a few times.
Bachar Houli: B, Hasn't had the impact of last year however still a gun, can hurt himself with disposal however would have him in my side anyday!
Luke McGuane: C-, Has made the most of his chances due to other players being injured, has taken on a new assignment as a forward option and has done quite well. Not sure if its enough to retain on the list though.
Chris Newman: C+, Another player not having impact as previous years, might just be me but he is slowing down a bit, might be time to let him move to the forward line...
Alex Rance: A, I've always been a huge fan of Rance, even when others were saying he's rubbish.. He's proven everyone wrong and is our key defender. Needs to sometimes focus more on the ball rather than body on body as has given alot of free kicks away this year being caught out.
Ivan Maric: A+, The Mullet Man, legend in the making, love watching him play. Has taken his move to Richmond with great gusto and cemented his position as number 1 ruckman in Richmond if not one of the best in the AFL.
Shane Tuck: A, One of the most hard done by players at the club, has had to work harder than any other player at this club, yet still one of the best ball getters and hard ball gets. Only issue for me can be disposal but he has worked hard on this over the last few years.
Daniel Jackson: C, If Jacko took out the undiscipline part of his game he could be one of our best players, but every year gets rubbed out for games for silly hits on opposition players. Needs to focus on Richmond as a Team and not be an individual, wonder if also if he has issues following Dimma's gameplan and was one of those Dimma meant when issuing a sturn warning after the Carlton loss?
Ben Griffiths: D, Little gametime but wow has the potential to be a gun CHB or a CHF, personally i think CHF. Massive kick on him and should be one to watch next few years.
Angus Graham: F-, Sadly the footballer i got drunk with up at Hamilton island whilst on my honeymoon is no longer up to scratch for a gig as a Tiger ruckman. He is a tap ruckman only and super predictable, taps to the opposition all the time when he actually wins a tap. Too slow and sadly will be one of those delisted at end of the year i feel.
Robin Nahas: D, Wow potential is there but if Jack and Kingy aren't firing he goes quiet. He can be very lazy at times and not put the pressure on that is required when the opposition take the ball out. Can miss easy shots on goal too...
Jake King: C+, Sadly has missed games due to injury and we have missed his presence, gun, just a gun, puts the pressure on when needed even though he doesn't score alot of goals. Great compliment to have next to Jack.
Tyrone Vickery: D-, Should have been breakout year after last years efforts but often went missing in Forward Line and now injured so won't see til next year. Ty needs to work harder next year as his days will be numbered if he continues to be a passenger like most of this year.
Reece Conca: B-, Quiet achiever, not as prolific in getting the ball as Cotchy or Tucky but has still played well this year, hey kid is still young and developing so I think this has been his best year and more to come i reckon.
Bradley Helbig: D-, Limited opportunities at this stage but has done ok when chance was given.
Andrew Browne: F, Hmm I'm one of those Browne baggers, don't think he has the goods for a ruck spot in Tigerland, to me, he models himself on Angus when he should be on Maric. Alot have big raps for him and he is still young so when Gus is moved on at season end, lets hope the Mullet Man rubs off on him and i eat my words.
Matthew White: D+, Whitey has had limited chances but sadly I still don't think he has the goods to compete with players like Dusty, Cotch, Tucky or even Nahas and Jacko. Has a tendancy to give silly free kicks away in dying stages of the game and disposal aint the best. Could be a good player but needs to work harder and take advantage of gametime in seniors to cement his place.
Dean McDonald: F-, Looked like a good pick up, from what i understand has had alot of personal issues so haven't seen him at all.
Jayden Post: D, Hmm, Posty for me is a tough one, Hey I think he could be that CHF we so badly need, but Post doesn't work hard enough in that spot to be the one we look at. Jack is still the focal point and will be until a proper CHF comes out and demands the ball harder... Potential there but its up to Post.
Steven Morris: A, Wow he is awesome, puts body on the line all the time for this club, can't find a backman who works harder in my mind. Should be rewarded with a 2 or 3 year contract extension!
Tom Derickx: F+, Young still learning, limited gametime, needs to make more of opportunities.
Kelvin Moore: D-, Great to see him back after so long out injured, but still a long way to go to be back to where he was years ago. Needs to also form to "New" gameplan and don't get back into bad habits like that of the Terry Wallace era...
Nathan Foley: C+, Sadly hit by injuries again this year, could be the new Mark Coughlan of Richmand sadly... Axle is a gun, just need to get his body fit...
Brandon Ellis: A-, I'm giving him big raps, he is a gun in the making and only first year? Love watching him play and still only young and alot to learn but wow, he is going to be a gun!
Todd Elton: F, Haven't seen much of him this year, the one game i did see he had a couple of touches but no real impact. Check again in a few years and may be a whole different player...
Matthew Arnot: F-, Yet to debut so no real comments on him, big raps from alot of supporters for him though!
Brett O'Hanlon: F+, I'm not a big fan of Brett, reminds me of a player i can't quite put the name too, sure we got him from Carlton or something, but alot and alot to learn...
Jeromey Webberley: F-, Hmm must stay nice, Just can't see this kid progressing next year on our list, if he does the club must see more in him than anyone else does. Had his chances and blew it in games against bottom side Gold Coast..
Addam Maric: F+, Had a few good games this year but hasn't had the impact we thought would come after his first NAB cup game where his speed was awesome. Has been handy off the bench as the Sub however more impact required in the limited gametime he's had..
Richmond Football Club: C+, Club had its reasons for selling games, lets hope it works in the long run, but again we are sitting just outside the 8 and a sold game lost lingering over our heads. Ok one game doesn't set the season, but with the first half we had and the awesome draw we had in the last half we should have been sitting 13 wins by now. Player indiscretions have cost us too.
For a team thats lost something like 6-8 games by less than 2 goals not sure for a bottom 8 team what else we could ask for, but, the real test is where this club goes next year and whether we turn these 6-8, 2 goal losses into wins. Potential is there and the Tiger is Stirring, but, it all comes down to the Management, Players, Coaching Staff and Supporters. We all need to work as one and work hard, play hard and cheer hard.
Man i can't wait for that elusive Grand Final appearance but i know it may still be a while away.
So there it is, some controversy i'm sure, not expecting all to agree but these are my thoughts.
My list for not returning next year:
Luke McGuane
Angus Graham
Jeromey Webbereley
Brad Miller (Retirement)
Matthew White
Dean MacDonald
Addam Maric
Possible players traded could be:
Daniel Jackson
Matthew White
Andrew Browne
Jayden Post
Luke McGuane
Ok - Let me know your thoughts!
Will rate A - F
Trent Cotchin: A+, Brownlow Medalist in the making, hard to fault his game and i often show my under 9's his game for someone they can watch and mirror
Dylan Grimes: B-, Great first year but hit by alot of injuries during last half of the year, would have been an B+.. Raw talent and will be a great Tiger defender to watch as he develops.
Brett Deledio: A-, Brett's a funny one for me, I often don't notice him in the games unless its a forward 50 entry, does play very well off half back but can sometimes become too quiet when game gets close
Dustin Martin: C+, Dusty should have earned a A- or higher this year, let off field issues control his season and prob friendship with a recent axed player has led him to not be as prominent this season. If he gets his shite together and works hard he will be one of the true guns and legends of this club.
Shaun Grigg: B, Prominent very early on yet still manages around 30 touches a game regardless of who we're playing. Great acquisition from Carlton and I love being apart of Team Towball!
Matt Dea: C+, Still young and learning, has had some game time this year and probably harshly used as one of the scapegoats for the Carlton loss.
Jack Riewoldt: B-, Hasn't had the impact of 2010 but is still coming 2nd in the goal kicking ladder, if he had kicked straighter this year he would be leading. Handy to have $10 on as 1st goal kicker for games, he did it over 8 times this year (not financial advice...)
Shane Edwards: C-, Had patches of greatness earlier in the year but since been very quiet, as a small forward needs to have more impact if he's to remain a full time Tiger.
Jake Batchelor: C+, Has the potential to be a great backman, can be sloppy with disposal and staying on his player however still very young and developing.
David Astbury: D-, limited gametime this year but will be one to watch as he develops also
Brad Miller: F+, Dissapointing year by Brad, unfortunately hasn't given that marking option or pressence we need and has been dropped a few times.
Bachar Houli: B, Hasn't had the impact of last year however still a gun, can hurt himself with disposal however would have him in my side anyday!
Luke McGuane: C-, Has made the most of his chances due to other players being injured, has taken on a new assignment as a forward option and has done quite well. Not sure if its enough to retain on the list though.
Chris Newman: C+, Another player not having impact as previous years, might just be me but he is slowing down a bit, might be time to let him move to the forward line...
Alex Rance: A, I've always been a huge fan of Rance, even when others were saying he's rubbish.. He's proven everyone wrong and is our key defender. Needs to sometimes focus more on the ball rather than body on body as has given alot of free kicks away this year being caught out.
Ivan Maric: A+, The Mullet Man, legend in the making, love watching him play. Has taken his move to Richmond with great gusto and cemented his position as number 1 ruckman in Richmond if not one of the best in the AFL.
Shane Tuck: A, One of the most hard done by players at the club, has had to work harder than any other player at this club, yet still one of the best ball getters and hard ball gets. Only issue for me can be disposal but he has worked hard on this over the last few years.
Daniel Jackson: C, If Jacko took out the undiscipline part of his game he could be one of our best players, but every year gets rubbed out for games for silly hits on opposition players. Needs to focus on Richmond as a Team and not be an individual, wonder if also if he has issues following Dimma's gameplan and was one of those Dimma meant when issuing a sturn warning after the Carlton loss?
Ben Griffiths: D, Little gametime but wow has the potential to be a gun CHB or a CHF, personally i think CHF. Massive kick on him and should be one to watch next few years.
Angus Graham: F-, Sadly the footballer i got drunk with up at Hamilton island whilst on my honeymoon is no longer up to scratch for a gig as a Tiger ruckman. He is a tap ruckman only and super predictable, taps to the opposition all the time when he actually wins a tap. Too slow and sadly will be one of those delisted at end of the year i feel.
Robin Nahas: D, Wow potential is there but if Jack and Kingy aren't firing he goes quiet. He can be very lazy at times and not put the pressure on that is required when the opposition take the ball out. Can miss easy shots on goal too...
Jake King: C+, Sadly has missed games due to injury and we have missed his presence, gun, just a gun, puts the pressure on when needed even though he doesn't score alot of goals. Great compliment to have next to Jack.
Tyrone Vickery: D-, Should have been breakout year after last years efforts but often went missing in Forward Line and now injured so won't see til next year. Ty needs to work harder next year as his days will be numbered if he continues to be a passenger like most of this year.
Reece Conca: B-, Quiet achiever, not as prolific in getting the ball as Cotchy or Tucky but has still played well this year, hey kid is still young and developing so I think this has been his best year and more to come i reckon.
Bradley Helbig: D-, Limited opportunities at this stage but has done ok when chance was given.
Andrew Browne: F, Hmm I'm one of those Browne baggers, don't think he has the goods for a ruck spot in Tigerland, to me, he models himself on Angus when he should be on Maric. Alot have big raps for him and he is still young so when Gus is moved on at season end, lets hope the Mullet Man rubs off on him and i eat my words.
Matthew White: D+, Whitey has had limited chances but sadly I still don't think he has the goods to compete with players like Dusty, Cotch, Tucky or even Nahas and Jacko. Has a tendancy to give silly free kicks away in dying stages of the game and disposal aint the best. Could be a good player but needs to work harder and take advantage of gametime in seniors to cement his place.
Dean McDonald: F-, Looked like a good pick up, from what i understand has had alot of personal issues so haven't seen him at all.
Jayden Post: D, Hmm, Posty for me is a tough one, Hey I think he could be that CHF we so badly need, but Post doesn't work hard enough in that spot to be the one we look at. Jack is still the focal point and will be until a proper CHF comes out and demands the ball harder... Potential there but its up to Post.
Steven Morris: A, Wow he is awesome, puts body on the line all the time for this club, can't find a backman who works harder in my mind. Should be rewarded with a 2 or 3 year contract extension!
Tom Derickx: F+, Young still learning, limited gametime, needs to make more of opportunities.
Kelvin Moore: D-, Great to see him back after so long out injured, but still a long way to go to be back to where he was years ago. Needs to also form to "New" gameplan and don't get back into bad habits like that of the Terry Wallace era...
Nathan Foley: C+, Sadly hit by injuries again this year, could be the new Mark Coughlan of Richmand sadly... Axle is a gun, just need to get his body fit...
Brandon Ellis: A-, I'm giving him big raps, he is a gun in the making and only first year? Love watching him play and still only young and alot to learn but wow, he is going to be a gun!
Todd Elton: F, Haven't seen much of him this year, the one game i did see he had a couple of touches but no real impact. Check again in a few years and may be a whole different player...
Matthew Arnot: F-, Yet to debut so no real comments on him, big raps from alot of supporters for him though!
Brett O'Hanlon: F+, I'm not a big fan of Brett, reminds me of a player i can't quite put the name too, sure we got him from Carlton or something, but alot and alot to learn...
Jeromey Webberley: F-, Hmm must stay nice, Just can't see this kid progressing next year on our list, if he does the club must see more in him than anyone else does. Had his chances and blew it in games against bottom side Gold Coast..
Addam Maric: F+, Had a few good games this year but hasn't had the impact we thought would come after his first NAB cup game where his speed was awesome. Has been handy off the bench as the Sub however more impact required in the limited gametime he's had..
Richmond Football Club: C+, Club had its reasons for selling games, lets hope it works in the long run, but again we are sitting just outside the 8 and a sold game lost lingering over our heads. Ok one game doesn't set the season, but with the first half we had and the awesome draw we had in the last half we should have been sitting 13 wins by now. Player indiscretions have cost us too.
For a team thats lost something like 6-8 games by less than 2 goals not sure for a bottom 8 team what else we could ask for, but, the real test is where this club goes next year and whether we turn these 6-8, 2 goal losses into wins. Potential is there and the Tiger is Stirring, but, it all comes down to the Management, Players, Coaching Staff and Supporters. We all need to work as one and work hard, play hard and cheer hard.
Man i can't wait for that elusive Grand Final appearance but i know it may still be a while away.
So there it is, some controversy i'm sure, not expecting all to agree but these are my thoughts.
My list for not returning next year:
Luke McGuane
Angus Graham
Jeromey Webbereley
Brad Miller (Retirement)
Matthew White
Dean MacDonald
Addam Maric
Possible players traded could be:
Daniel Jackson
Matthew White
Andrew Browne
Jayden Post
Luke McGuane
Ok - Let me know your thoughts!
Richmond Tigers
Ok I'm one of the most passionate Tigers fans around, won't say i'm the biggest or have the best opinion, i just know i'm super passionate and my opinions are my own...
So, 2012 season is nearly finished, yes we have improved, everyone can see that, but we are still a year or two away from making that finals push.
And i still think we are probably 2 key position players away from the team we need, and we need to work fast so we can get our heads in the finals and stay there.
Some people say that there was no point us making the finals this year as we wouldn't have done anything, I believe that to be wrong. Experience is a massive factor, we have a team who have never seen finals, have yearned for it, but never experienced it.
I believe quite strongly, that first taste of September action will provide our side with a bigger boost then simply going just for GF glory. One must first taste what they are after before pursuing overall glory....
So a birth in this years finals, even if we were knocked out Round 1, still would have given this club and its supporters and playing group a taste of what is to come.
Yes the Tiger is Stirring but if we don't make the most of our chances then it will continue to stir in the bottom half and we'll be forever rebuilding...
The club is in the right path, both financially, management and playing group. All is pointing to September action.
Soon i will go over each player and give a rating for this year, yes i know season isn't over but with 5 games to go, most won't make more of an impact to my findings...
So, 2012 season is nearly finished, yes we have improved, everyone can see that, but we are still a year or two away from making that finals push.
And i still think we are probably 2 key position players away from the team we need, and we need to work fast so we can get our heads in the finals and stay there.
Some people say that there was no point us making the finals this year as we wouldn't have done anything, I believe that to be wrong. Experience is a massive factor, we have a team who have never seen finals, have yearned for it, but never experienced it.
I believe quite strongly, that first taste of September action will provide our side with a bigger boost then simply going just for GF glory. One must first taste what they are after before pursuing overall glory....
So a birth in this years finals, even if we were knocked out Round 1, still would have given this club and its supporters and playing group a taste of what is to come.
Yes the Tiger is Stirring but if we don't make the most of our chances then it will continue to stir in the bottom half and we'll be forever rebuilding...
The club is in the right path, both financially, management and playing group. All is pointing to September action.
Soon i will go over each player and give a rating for this year, yes i know season isn't over but with 5 games to go, most won't make more of an impact to my findings...
About Me
Ok I have my blog up and running, looking forward to the world of blogs as if you like opinions - mine are worth a read.
Some will be thoughts and opinions, others can be quick of the mark and may need retraction once i've calmed down..
Love the Richmond Tigers and Seattle Mariners, Huge Star Wars and The Walking Dead fan!!
Please follow, comment and enjoy!
Some will be thoughts and opinions, others can be quick of the mark and may need retraction once i've calmed down..
Love the Richmond Tigers and Seattle Mariners, Huge Star Wars and The Walking Dead fan!!
Please follow, comment and enjoy!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)