The Australian Wattlesprigs

Comments from tourers

2009-07-26T17:55:00.000-07:00

All tourers are asked to leave a brief message either on this blog or email to Steve Gemmill at wattlesrpigs@hotmail.com about 1 great experience they had on tour. Once these have been collated I will publish them on the Blog. Cheers Big Sprig.

The Test Wattlesprigs v Shepperton CC

2009-07-25T04:55:00.000-07:00

Award Winners Rick Jones & Adam Thewlis

Noel & Gary Duns with Todd Duns Medalist Adam Thewlis

The crowd at the "Test Match"
Two guys who made a few in the test surronded by two who didn't

Neil Thewlis may not try partying with the young uns again!!

Yesterday marked the "Spriggers" final game of the tour. The final match of the tour is a game steeped in history against the Shepperton CC in outer London. The origins date back to Graham Gemmill's orginal tour back in 1983, every tour since has played the last game against "Shepp". The tour selectors pick the best performed team to play in the "test match" to play for the "ashes". Much to our disappointment we haven't the best record in this match and this year was no different. Capt Rick Jones won the toss and batted and that was about as good as it got. Apart from another great knock of 89 run out from our gun bat Mark Moffat and 21 from the skip the Spriggers didn't muster many finishing at 9/179 from 45 overs. This proved to be no where near enough as the Shepp boys knocked them over 6 down with 8 overs to spare. Jordon Whiting and Rick Jones being the pick of the bowlers.

On the bright side the hospitality from Shepperton CC was first rate. At the conculsion of the match a couple of important awards where made. The Todd Duns Award for the best feilder on tour went to Adam Thewlis and the Graham Gemmill medal for the best player over the entire tour went to Rick Jones. Congratultions to you both on a fantastic tour boys. The 'after match' kicked on back at the hotel as it was the final night for some and the last chance to relive old glories as a group.

So that about ends the tour with some tourist off to Paris for the day and many checking the sights of London before the long haul back to Australia. Many thanks to the Gemmills and Bertha for a great trip and make sure to think of the Wattlesprigs when your at home, not standing in queue for no reason, getting reasonable service, not listening to a Pom whinge win they save a test match, or know that summer lasts for for more than 4 weeks!!

Thanks everyone and hope you all had a super time and look forward to seeing everyone in OZ.

Love it!!!

Footnote: Thanks to Adam 'Jacko' Jackson for maintaining the blog over the last few days while 'Big Sprig' was away.

Game 18 V Shepperton CC - The Test Match

2009-07-24T15:01:00.000-07:00

Selected side: Rick Jones (C), Mark Moffat, Ian Dinsdale, Andrew Thompson, Ranjie Oliver, Anton Noble, Jordyn Whiting, Matthew Thompson, Gary Duns, Robert Comerford, Simon Godfrey, Adrian Betts, Adam Thewlis.
Match report and stats to follow tomorrow.

Game 17 v Teddington CC

2009-07-24T02:11:00.000-07:00

Man of the Match Ranje & a fan.
The Brooks Bros.
An English ambulance for the "Sovereign"
Future Sprigger Tom Oliver practises his moves.
The team and K Thewlis skipper for the day.

The Sprigs took on local London side Teddington at their beautiful ground that is owned by the Queen no less. This promised to be a memorable day under our inspirational Skipper Kevvy Thewlis.Saddly for for Kev and the team the Capts curse struck again (6th time on tour a Capt has made a blob!) and 5 of our best going down with injuries, there is a bit of a theme with the injuries ie. all over 40!. The most serious being Peter "Sliver Sovereign" Jacobsen going down life threatening cramp.
On the bright side the Sprigs batted well with an opening stand of 87,going on to make 7/216 with the best being Ranje Olivers hard hitting run a ball 67. The Teddington boys had little trouble overhauling the total with their Sri Lankan pro taking a toll on most of the bowlers, the best being J Whiting 2/28.The rest were Jackson 29, Noble 46,M Whiting 9,K Thewlis 0,J Whiting 4,Wells 15,P Jacobsen 11 (retired forever),D Brooks 14, Doyle 1 .
Today is the Wattlesprigs big Test Match and last game of the tour against traditional rivals Shepperton. We have selected the cream of the crop so good luck boys we haven t won this one since 1986 (hope Rudi Koretzen isn t umpiring).

Ode to Wattlesprigs 09

2009-07-23T02:49:00.000-07:00

Matt Thompson's first published work "Ode to Wattlesprigs 09"

Now as the trip is ending
Id thought id tell a tale or two
About the 2009
Wattlesprigs crew

First there is Gemmill
The master of our ride
Im just a little bit worried for his wife
He's falling in love with big Bertha Hyde

The other leader they call Berth
For the whole tour never changed his kit
Too bad he’s a twat
And leading all by the number of dummy spits

Next there is beaker
The scorer extraordinaire
Qiute an interesting man
You could even call him rare

Big little Thompson
First ton of the tour
Its just a bit of a shame
That with the ladies his brother does better

The Duns’ what a quartet
Gary gives em a rip, Trav, at fielding he is grand,
Greg brought his golf clubs,
But we’re all lucky they brought the old man, the greatest umpire in the land.

Young Jordie, well done, excellent
A great effort for 17
Although It is a little concerning
That your taste in women is about thirteen

Adam what a drinker,
You might have a bit of contamination
Another piece of advice
Go and get an anal examination

Hood, beautiful, oh, oh, oh, what a champion, what a legend
always has a great hit
Although i reckon he’s just as keen
To have a good spit

Big Archie, the fall guy
He is just as grand as
A lot of the boys also think
He might be Colonel Sanders

Jacko the man they call action,
Led the boys to victory although you couldnt say he was the pick
But he did manage to snare the scalp
Of that shit South African Graeme Hick

Bettsy, they call him Bruce McAveney,
Drinks that crap cider for god’s sake
Maybe that’s the reason
He’s special and has a very interesting head shake

The Dinsdale’s, Sandra and Ian
The couple from Wangaratta
But you’d be a very generous man
To call Dino an opening batter

Next there’s the man called Blowy
Rarely referred to as Mr Parker
His fine sessions were brilliant
You’d call him a prick, a tough task master

Doyley the man from up north
Started the trip on fire and maybe even had a chunder
But his claim to fame is the day he bowled Knight
with that ball from down under

Big Wellsy a very popular man
Could tell a ripper of a joke on the bus
However unfortunately his batting
Was shit and well and truly puss

Godders what a great bloke
Some stories were outrageous
And then he hurt his finger
never accused of being captain courageous

Kel the team manager
Did a bloody marvellous job
Until the day he carried on like a fool
And pulled his little right quad

Big Morgs the team physio
Loves telling a joke or eight
But dont trust him in the rooms
Cause he might slip the digit up the date

Pete the man who loves coffee more than beer
A disgrace, a cardinal sin
Plays the game with passion
They call him the silver sovereign

Burkey, he loves the turps
Drinks triple jacks hes bloody unreal
But there’s more than one reason
Why they call him the man of steal

The ladies on the trip have been awesome
Always managed to get a fine
That’s because they got as pissed as everyone else
And drank 350 bottles of wine

Cliffy Cameron an absolute champ
Was crook at one stage, had swine flu I was sure
Always determined at each hotel
To create a sticky floor

His brother big Camo is also a top bloke
Barracks for Richmond and looking forward to seeing his wife
I hope he can take a catch back home
Or he’ll be in a bit of strife

Fossil Cleary
The man, he barracks for the sons of the west
The one game he played he got a duck
But as a drinker, was one of the best

Young Wheels enjoyed the trip
Although with the bat he often failed
And then there was the night in Manchester
Out with the boys, his shout and he bailed

Old man Thompson
Loved the trip, and to rock and roll
But the night of the fancy dress party
His dancing and and undie revealing was way out of control

Next there is the Doc
Told a funny joke after three or four
But one night he had a few too many
and stripped down at the Blue Boar

Matty Edwards from up north
A great bloke and always loved to play
But the one time he stuffed up in York
Was when wellsy had to take him to the sick bay

Noble, they call him Knuckles
A funny man, Had fabio among his alter egos
Broke the record with 27 off an over
Fuck there another one goes

Ranjie a great man
After his first innings didnt get a great reception
I’d like to also ask the question
Did you for a few years, forget about contraception

Jonesy, another from up north
Was one of our best bats
The problem was you blew a hundred or two,
We might have to call you Slats

Moff’s had a great tour
His ton was a real highlight
But there was one time when he wasnt at his best
In Manchester he’d had a pearler of a night

Ian Thewlis loves a beer
He became known as Super Foo
Lost the mug but that wasnt as bad
As when hed go to drop a poo

His brother is Neil
Drinking is clearly an ability
But his love affair with pet shops
Means i think he’s into beastiality

Cheetah Brooks from Barooga
He really is a great man
Although I did become a bit worried
That he spent all his time with Cliffy Cameron

Dozer Brooks joined the tour
But about 2 weeks too late
When he started his first over on tour
It was 6, it finished at 8

Big Robbie Cummerford from Brissy
Brought Cryril and Vernon, was very keen
Not being able to live without his teddy
Made me think he might be a queen

Big Fish from the West
Was excellent and gave them a rip
from all reports his bowling isn’t the only reason
Why he had a successful trip

Aussie Joey our great bus driver
Never did anything wrong
But it still doesn’t change the fact
That your still a frigen pom

Andy our new bus driver
A good cricketer or so they say
But you’d want to do a good job
Or we’ll get Joey back, and send you on your way

So now the tour is over
And so is this little rhyme
There’s been friendships formed for life
It’s fair to say we’ve all had an absolutely brilliant time.

The Cricketers Arms Hotel. Trevor Oliver's pub

2009-07-23T02:24:00.000-07:00

The group at Cricketers Arms

Today after a big night of celebrating being back on winners list the "spriggers" travelled to the Cricketers Arms Hotel at Clavering. The hotel is owned by Trevor Oliver (father of world famous chef Jamie). Here we enjoyed at delicious 3 course meal in the beautiful old pub. After dinner entertainment was provided by our poet lauert Matt Thompson. Matt has written a line for every tourist and showed off his prowess as a budding wordsmith. Today we also bid farewell to our tour leader Steve "Big Sprig" Gemmill . Big Sprig has done a amazing job as the leader and everyone has appreciated his great leadership. Although delaying the bus this morning because a "ghost" locked him in his room was a pathetic excuse for sleeping in!! '

The Bard, Matt Thompson

Cyril enjoys a tipple

Big Sprigs last day

Game 16 V Worlington CC

2009-07-22T11:32:00.000-07:00

The Lord of Wheelington, Glenn Whelan gets the mug for his 3 for.

Taking off the covers

Kevvy 'sticks it up em' in Suffolk

Another overcast day at Worlington. The game was started later on as the covers were taken of at 3pm. We played a 30/30 over game. It was great to play against old mates Craig Woolard, Ian Starling and Bruno How again. Bruno was heavily sledged by the large Aussie crowd. He also received the dreaded duck for his batting efforts. James Holmes (ex Barooga CC) was also at the game. Sprigs captain Andrew Thompson was offered the toss and decided to bat on a very hard and well prepared wicket (thanks Darren and Pat!) The lunch and tea was magnificent again, with a few of us perhaps going back as ‘cargo’ on the plane!
It was the Glenn ‘Little Wheels’ Whelan show here today with Glenn taking 3 important wickets at the end of the game to swing it our way. Now called Lord of Wheelington, Glenn will always be remembered at this ground. Simon Godfrey screamed out Beneath the southern cross and we sang in unison.
Kevvy Thewlis ‘stuck it up em’ at the bar that night too!
Results: S.Godfrey 1no, 2/18 R. Jones 22, 2/18 M. Edwards 3 M. Moffat 18 R Comberford 8, 1/14 T. Noy 20, 1/18 G Thompson 6, 0/28 A Thompson 10 I Dinsdale 4 retired 0/13, A Betts 4, 0/5 G Whelan 0 no, 3/10 Wattlesprigs 125/8 Worlington 115/9

Game 15 V Long Melford 20/20

2009-07-21T03:37:00.000-07:00

Great day in Long Melford via Cambridge. After departing the hotel at Stamford, Lincolnshire we headed SE to Cambridge. Some went punting along the River Cam while most shopped and watched the 2nd test live on Sky TV….a very hard station to find in this country. The result went to England and we will cop a real good sledging from locals from now on. Bring on the 3rd test! Our Ashes test will be played this Friday at Shepperton, Surrey.
A 20/20 game in Long Melford was played V a strong Long Melford side at 5pm. Ian Dinsdale starred with the bat, 66 not out and carried his bat while Peter ‘Silver’ Jackobson got 17 and Adam Thewlis, 20 batted well.
It was Ian ‘Foo’ Thewlis though that stole the show. His first ball in England was a wicket (the Gatting Ball) and his first shot was a run. Jordan Whiting bowled well while Dozer Brooks got a wicket with his first ball and should have been on a hattrick when Steve Gemmill dropped a soda and claimed a heavy fine!
The tail didn’t wag at the end with 4 ducks in succession. Little Wheels, Big Sprig, Dozer Brooks and Cheetah Brooks all claimed the dreaded duck and knighted each other, much to the delight of Mick ‘Fossil’ Cleary who was glad to get rid of it.
We got back to the motel and was treated to a magnificent barbeque, all put on by Mark, the Gov at the George and Dragon, while Neil Thewlis and Fishy Whiting smoked out the joint with their barbeque skills (5 quid each thanks!!!) Cyril (the Wombat) met up with a real life hedgehog and had a great night at the George and Dragon. He won the dummy though for departing without a hedgehog! And drowned his sorrows at the bar.
Results: David Brooks 0, Chris Brooks 0, 0/11 Ian Dindale 66, 0/11 Peter Jackobson 17, 1/18 Adam Thewlis 20, 0/28 Ian Thewlis 2, 1/6 Cliff Cameron 7, 0/17 Keith Doyle 1, 0/26 Glen Whelan 0, 1/21 Jordan Whiting 1, 1/23 Steve Gemmill 0
Mug: Ian ‘Foo’ Thewlis

Bertha at Cambridge

Cyril helps Beaker score

Long Long Melford CC

Foo's big day out!

Game 14 V Stamford Town CC

2009-07-20T00:08:00.000-07:00

The Sprigs ventured to Stamford Town Cricket Club today for their 14th scheduled game of cricket. Stamford is in the county of Lincolnshire and is an old Roman town with 17th century structures. The Garden House Hotel where we stayed was built in 1674! Great to catch up with Hudson and Fiona (Hudson’s dad is Don Batty, who wrote our Wattlesprigs song) Huddo lives in Stamford and organised the fixture for us. Fiona also made the arvo teas and lunches…..a great spread which will be hard to match. The sprigs batted 1st and made 221 for 4, with Mark Moffat making a brilliant 121 on a biggish ground and ‘soft deck’ conditions. Gary Duns bowled magnificently taking 4/21. Huddo skippered the Stamford team and top scored with 36 runs and took 2 excellent catches.
Stats: Mark Wells 21, Rick Jones 1/35, Matt Edwards 20, 0/9 Mark Moffat 121, Rob Comberford 0/25, Greg Duns 5, 2/22 Gary Duns 4/21 Travis Noy 1/27 Greg Thompson 2/17 Andrew Thompson 40, 0/24 Keith Doyle 9, 0/6
Wattlesprigs 4/221 Stamford Town CC 10/193
Off to Long Melford today via Cambridge for some punting down the River Cam. We may even find a TV screen to hopefully watch one of the greatest ever Ashes victories in history…Go Aussies.

Tea lady Fiona prepares our lunches at Stamford

Old mates Huddo and Hood meet up at Stamford

Mark 'Rocky 1' Moffat scores a ton at Stamford

Moff's saluted by his team mates

The rain came and went at Stamford

Manchester United

2009-07-19T04:24:00.000-07:00

The day started well with everyone on the bus early, although we did have to wait for Brian ‘Man of Steele’ Burke who didn’t have Hood to wake him up early!
The bus ventured to Manchester United soccer ground and we were lucky enough to get a tour around this most famous ground. Some walked to Old Trafford to look at the cricket ground.
A highlight was being able to walk down the players race as a team, like Bobby Charlton, Georgie Best and David Beckham have previously.
Travelled to Stamford today and met up with Wattlesprigs ‘old mate’ Hudson and Fiona. Hudson’s father Don Batty of Cobram actually wrote our team song!Had a super dinner at the Garden House Hotel where we are staying. Blowie did some more fines while Neil ‘I’ve lost my voice’ Thewlis collected over 60 quid for the kick.The fines money will go towards a formal lunch at Clavering this Wednesday, where we will have lunch at Trevor Oliver’s restaurant (Jamie’s dad)

Blowie at Manchester United

Jordan and in the changerooms

Greg interviews Jacko at Man U

Sir Alex Fergusons den

Hudson Batty at home in Stamford

Tea lady Fiona prepare our lunch at home

Game 13 V Rawtenstall CC

2009-07-19T03:57:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately the game was washed out at Rawtenstall. It just rained all day.But the hospitality again shown here by Dave and John Dawson will be etched in our memories for a while. Not only did they make us a Cornish pasty lunch, they also put on a magnificent afternoon tea!!!!!
During the day most of the group ventured into the village of Rawtenstall and watched the cricket live on the big screen at the local pub….It was great to banter with the opposition as well. Michael Bevan and Funky Miller both played at this club while Keith Miller nearly played back in the 40’s. Dennis Lillee played up the road as well as Shane Warne (Accrington CC) and Adam Dale (Bacup)…..The Lancashire league has had some great Aussies over a long period of time.
Presentations were made to Vinny their club captain and we hope the shirt fits.Aussie Jo and new bus driver Andrew (nicknamed Andy Sang) picked us out a hotel in Manchester and we sang songs and danced till late. The DJ was great with his Aussie songs, as we basically took over the joint. ‘We come from the land down under’ was sung with gusto and volume. Off to Manchester United Football Club and Old Trafford Cricket Ground tomorrow.
Rawtenstall CC

Washed out at Rawtenstall

The old Rawtenstall rooms

What a tea. Not much salmon left at Rawtenstall!

Cyril gets wet

Manchester via Liverpool

2009-07-16T23:19:00.000-07:00

The bus headed south towards Liverpool today on route to Manchester. It has been very wet in this part of the country so the Ferry across the Mersey River was not an option..apologies to Gerry and the pacemakers. The crew went on a guided tour around this 'Beatles' town having lunch at the Richmond tavern, travelled down Penny Lane and veiwed some Strawberry Fields. The museum was interesting, but possibly the highlight of the day was a small group of Wattlesprigs venturing into the Cavern Bar, the site where the Beatles first played, and sang a few songs with a guitarist that was performing.

The crew got back onto the bus and headed towards Manchester late afternoon and arrived at our Hotel in time to wander the streets of this thriving city for dinner. Many of the group headed to China town for some magnificent Cantonese food, while others relaxed at the motel and watched the end of the British Open....Go John Senden!!!

More pics to follow on Liverpool, when at hand. Off to Rawtenstall, Manchester today if the rain holds out.

The Beatles Museum

The fab four for sale

An overcast Liverpool

The real Sergeant Pepper!

Bertha says hi to Lachlan, Hugh, Meg and a big hello to Te'a

"Its wasn't the highlight of my trip, it was the highlight of my life"

Kevvy thewlis quoted after his Cavern experience.

Game 12 V Raby Castle CC

2009-07-16T00:01:00.000-07:00

Most of the group went to York (Yorkshire) this morning and spent the day in this ancient Roman city, while some stayed back in Croft on Tees to relax and unwind.
Tonight we were off to the castle, Raby Castle, for what has been coined our ‘Legends Game.’ The ground had to be seen to be believed. Castles, moats, deer, cows, bulls, pheasants, lords, ladies and OH!…..a cricket pitch….it was all here at Raby.
Stats: Adrian Betts 1 / 2, David Brooks 27 Retired hurt, Mark Moffat 2, 0/12 Chris Brooks 1, 0/7 Matthew Thompson 0/5 Andrew Thompson 2, 2/17 Ranjie Oliver 37 Glenn Whelan 1/11 Brian Burke 1, 0/10 Mick Cleary 0, 0/18 Neil Thewlis 5, 0/2 Gary Ennals 1, 0/16 Adam Jackson 15
Wattlesprigs 9/104 def Raby Castle CC 4/103 Mug: Brian ‘Steele Man’ Burke
Many highlights here today on the cricket pitch including the Brooks brothers batting together, Brian ‘Steele man’ Bourke batting without gloves and slaying them at the Wheat sheath Hotel, Mick ‘carry me home’ Cleary’s captaincy, duck and slip cordon, Neil Thewlis’ boundary for 4 runs and Gary Ennals’ first and only run in England including a rendition of ‘Wattlesprigs 2009 the beer is good and the cricket’s fine’ song that will sit in the minds of the Raby villagers forever. Winning in the last over of the day was also a special moment and the song was sung loudly in Lord Barnard’s cricket dressing rooms. Amazing day of cricket. Bucket list ticked again……just keeps on getting better!

The final score at Raby Castle CC

Mick Cleary the skipper and the duck

Mary-Anne with the Jester and dummy!!

Neil Thewlis scores a 4 off his first ball in England

Aussie Jo Parsley (busdriver) relaxes.

Garry 'Hood' Ennals salutes after his only run in England

Cyril after his first day at school

David and Chris Brooks open the batting for the Spriggers

Picture postcard stuff at Raby Castle

The team pre game

Amazing cricket experience

Game 11 V Ingleton CC

2009-07-15T02:48:00.000-07:00

A long trip up to Darlington was broken up with a short stop at Leeds for lunch today. In the heartland of Yorkshire. Locals are very hard to understand as the accents get 'thicker' the further north we go. Drove through villages of Melbourne, Carlton and Richmond on the way and it was quipped that Richmond/Yorshire's soccer side has only won two games for the season as well.....much to the discust of Cheetah, Blowie and Camo who are avid Richmond Tigers supporters back home.
We got to our accommodation...The Croft on Tees..Which is just over the river Tees, so we are official Yorkshireman...at least for a few nights anyway!
A late 30/30 game was played at Ingleton....Another amazing venue that has a rich history for the Wattlesprigs. It was at this ground in 1986 that touring founding father Graham Gemmill played and threw a boomerang for the crowd that a few of the locals still remembered when we rocked up. Local groundsman Bob did an amazing job with the wicket and chief organiser Mike needs to thanked sincerely for his hospitality and generosity throughout the day.
Captain Dino lost the toss and they sent us in. Gary 'toilet' Duns did well taking 3/20. Greg Thompson PhD G.U.T. made 39 while Mark 'Wellsy' Wells blitzed with the ball at the death to take 2/7. Wellsy also won the mug and smashed them in the half pint skull at the end of the game!
The Wattlesprigs compiled 8/137, while Ingleton made the runs, 8 down in the 27th over. Not even the Wattlesprigs phsysio and 12th man running out (twice!!!) to offer the English batsman gloves and advice could take the game from Ingleton. A most entertaining match.
Scorecard: Gary Duns 1no, 3/20 Geoff Cameron 1, David Brooks 1, Matthew Thompson 9no, 1/17, Greg Thompson 39, 0/8 David Parker 10 retired hurt, Greg Duns 9, 0/10 Simon Godfrey 0/20 Mark Wells 0, 2/7 Ian Dinsdale 21, Peter Jackobson 17, 1/28 Adam Thewlis 4, 0/23
Wattlesprigs 8/137 Ingleton 7/138
A sensational spread was presented back at the Cross Keys Hotel after the game. An amazing gift of hospitality considering the lunches and drinks at the cricket were donated as well and we had 46 in our group. A whip was done by Jacko and he presented Ingleton with 100 pounds to say thankyou.
A fabulous afternoon of cricket and fun and another tick on the 'bucket list!' Thankyou Ingleton.

Cyril on the Ingleton clubhouse roof

Accommodation in Yorkshire

Team photo, Ingleton, County Durham

Wattlesprigs support at Ingleton

David 'Blowie' Parker gets a rub down at Ingleton after retiring hurt

Game 10 V Tamworth CC

2009-07-15T01:19:00.000-07:00

Another lovely ground and atmosphere presented us at Tamworth in Staffordshire and not to be confused with the NSW town of the same name. This is Tamworth, Birmingham! The flag was erected and new mascot Cyril the wombat was made feel welcome by the local ground dog. Gary the groundsman, tractor driver and bar manger did a fabulous job with this hard and fast wicket and probably the largest ground we will play on.
Captain Geoff Cameron was offered the toss and decided to bat. Opposition skipper for Tamworth was ex Yarroweyah United player Stuart Burrows…..We also thank Stuey for organising the fixture. Niel Orton (ex Yarroweyah)was at the game as well.
The wheels fell off early in the game, literally, as Big Wheels David Whelan and Small Wheels Glen Whelan were both bowled for ducks in the first over. Dr. Greg Thompson was the hero with the bat though making a superb 72 on a big ground (probably worth a hundred if the ground was smaller!!) David ‘Cheetah’ Brooks also batted well for 28, while Gary ‘Toilet’ Duns made 22. Rob ‘Comby’ Comerford was 17 no at the end.
Wattlesprigs 9/169
The bowling and fielding was always going to be a challenge with aching muscles and heads from the last 2 weeks. Travis ‘Noisy’ Noy was outstanding in the field again while Cheetah took a pearler behind the stumps late in the game. Dr. Greg and Gary Duns both took 2 wickets.
Tamworth won the game 8/170
Stats:
Glen Whelan 0, 1/14 David Whelan 0, 0/14 Gary Duns 22, 2/25 Travis Noy 2, 0/18 Robert Comerford 17no, 1/24 Greg Duns 1, 1/12 Greg Thompson 72, 2/16 Adam Jackson 4no, 0/20 David Brooks 28, Geoff Cameron 2, Cliff Cameron 0, 1/23
Mug: Dr. Greg ThompsonPost match we all travelled back to the Stag and Boar Hotels, where the Blue Boar local band sang some cracking folk songs.

Geoff Cameron and Stuey Burrows after the toss at Tamworth

Tamworth/Australia flag

The crew at Tamworth

Greg Thompson Phd.G.U.T.(72 runs and 2/16) walks from the ground at Tamworth after a fine knock.

The duck presentation at Tamworth. Godders to Big Wheels to Little Wheels to Cliff!

David 'Cheetah' Brooks makes 28 at Tamworth.

Team mascot Cyril the wombat, tests out the English leather.

Game 9 V Temple Grafton CC

2009-07-13T02:18:00.000-07:00

An enthralling 1st Ashes test has meant that our bus detoured to a venue that broadcast it, as none of our hotels pay for SkySports. So the 'Binton Club' was it! The game V Temple Grafton CC was delayed due to rain, but we got our game in commencing at 2:45.
What a ground!...what an atmosphere!.... Eva Cassidy wrote a song called 'Fields of Gold' and Kevin Costner starred in 'Field of dreams'.....well this was both rolled into one.
It was ladies day as well at the cicket, so a marque was erected and the ladies loved the day with champagne and banter abundant.
The Sprigs, led by Simon Godfrey, won the toss and sent Temple Grafton in.....on a sticky.....but it wasn't long before some of our bowling was despatched into the wheatfields that surrounded.....We think old mate and organiser of the day 'Tommy Benjamin' may have 'stacked' his top order.
Scorecard: Ian Dinsdale 43, 1/4 Peter Jackobson 5, Robbie Comerford 0, 1/24 Ranjie Oliver 39, Jordan Whiting 9,4/21 David Parker 3, Adam Jackson 8, 1/36 Simon Godfrey 0, Anton Noble 5, 0/19 Matthew Thompson 25, 0/38 Adam Thewlis 0/16, Michael Whiting 16, 1/45
Wattlesprigs 174 cc Temple Grafton 6/217 Mug: Jordan Whiting.
The Ashes Teapot was presented to captain Tommy and a few speeches were made as the sun went down over the Cotswolds....another day in cricket paradise!
Thankyou also to the Christening party that attended the afternoon. You guys added to the atmosphere.....and to Alan, chairman of Temple Grafton...Thankyou for this privilege.
Walking to the ground at Temple Grafton

Jordan, Anne and Michael Whiting at the Temple Grafton pavillion

Ladies day at Temple Grafton (and Tom)

Scarecrows in the fields! Looking for a ball at Temple Grafton.

Tommy holds the Ashes Teapot next to Sprig skipper Simon Godfrey.

Ian 'Dino' Dinsdale (43 and 1/4) after his great knock at Temple Grafton

Shakespeare's City - Day off - Stratfordshire

2009-07-11T07:12:00.000-07:00

In Stratford Upon Avon today after a great night at Claverdon, post barrel races and game V Claverdon cricket club. Some went into town and a few are off to the theatre tonight. But most are watching the Ashes live at numerous hotels in this enthralling 1st test. Great declaration by Ricky meant that Geoffrey Cameron claimed the pot of 17 quid after a pound in for 'score in front for declaration'.
Some played golf at the Bidford Grange Golf Course, while others went into London on the train for a day trip. Thanks to Greg 'Beaker' Thompson for organising this.
Off to Temple Grafton CC for our ladies day fixture tomorrow.
A quiet day in Shakespeareville.

Cricket live in Stratford Upon Avon

Our bus sign (thanks 'Silver Sovereign')

Game 8 V Claverdon CC

2009-07-10T22:06:00.000-07:00

A leisurely day today in the lead up to our 20/20 match V Claverdon near Stratford Upon Avon. Some went into Shakespeares home town for a look while other watched the cricket live on Skysports. The Blue Boar hotel and The Stag are quaint little village pubs where we are staying. At 3:30 the bus arrived back from town and it was game on 30 minutes away at Claverdon CC. Jo Parsley our bus driver is doing a fabulous job finding these places and he has surely deserved his day off tomorrow to go and see his family in Suffolk. We got to the ground early and and kicked and threw the footy (as we do have some rugby players on tour).

On a slow track Rick Jones lost the toss and was sent in by the Claverdon skipper. Moff and Fabio Noble opened up and got us off to a good start, while Andrew Thompson compiled a neat 55 retired.

Batting: Mark Moffat 25, Anton Noble 17, Andrew Thompson 55, Rick Jones 5, Ranjie Oliver 18, Matthew Edwards 12.

We bowled very well with Jordy Whiting (pacey and unlucky) and Matt Thompson bowling tightly and with wickets. Fish 'cant keep him out of the game' Whiting got a wicket with his first ball. Adrian 'Horry' Betts bowled well also, turning and drifting the ball and took 2 wickets also.

Bowling: Matt Thompson 2/1, Jordan Whiting 0/18, Adam Thewlis 0/8, Glenn Whelan 0/24, David Whelan 0/10, Michael Whiting 1/9

Wattlesprigs 3/155 Defeated Claverdon CC 6/102

Mug: Andrew Thompson

Thanks to Vince Hammond, Tommy Benjamin and the Parker family for organising the game.

In the real true test of pride however it was The Ashes in Barrel racing post match back at the Crown Inn that got the crowd 'Up and about'. Neck and neck at the final test (best out of 3) it was Australia that came out on top.

We were also treated to a fine meal by Claverdon chairperson Irene. Irene was presented with a Wattlesprigs Cap and also a donation of 150 pounds ($320) made by our touring group.

Barrel race results: Australia 2, Poms 1.

Matt Edwards and Ranjie Oliver at Claverdon.

Fabio Noble lines up for his first game with the Spriggers

Adam Thewlis wears the Jester hat at Claverdon

Playing at Claverdon

Dr Thompson addresses his players before the barrel race final

Fancy Dress night at The Stag, Warrwickshire.

2009-07-10T03:17:00.000-07:00

After breaky we said goodbye to Wales and had a nice little bus trip through Gloucestershire and into the city of Warrwick, Warrwickshire, where Beaker Thompson visited his 10th castle and the group went into the high street to have lunch.....A great little pub where we could also watch the cricket.
We got to our accommodation near Stratford Upon Avon (Shakespeare country) and piled into the Stag and Blue Boar Hotels.
We were treated to a 3 course meal and live music from a folk band while each of us enjoyed each others attire. We had everyone from 'Colonel Sanders', 'Beer Wenches' to 'Glutinous Maximus' and 'King Henry the V111..........What a fabulous night!!!!!!

Group fancy dress photo at The Stag

Our beer Wenches

Colonel Sanders

The Emperor

King Henry

Day 1 Ashes...Swalec Stadium, Cardiff, Wales.

2009-07-10T02:43:00.000-07:00

After a pick up from our hotel in St. Melons it was off to the Ashes. We travelled to the beautiful Sophia Gardens and entered the ground and sat behind the fanatics with the Barmy Army to our right. Strauss won the toss, batted.
Mitchell Johnson bowled the first ball of the Ashes and did a better job than Harmeston 4 years earlier. Hilfy bowled well as did Horry, but undoubtedly the highlight of the day was Peiterson's shocking shot to be dismissed by Horry in the 50's...... alot of celebrities were seen at the game.....including John Howard and hands shaken from Bobby Willis, Graham Gooch, Greg Blewett and Kenny Sutcliffe.
Some tested the Cardiff nightlife later on but most went back to the motel for a rest.
Bucket list ticked again....The Ashes live, 1st day, 1st ball.......and upon writing this Punter and Kat have just made 2nd day tons......special!!!!!!

Ashes live from the stands

The Welsh Gaurds Choir pre game

Burkey relaxes at the Ashes

Game 7 V Barmy Army

2009-07-08T00:18:00.000-07:00

Well, what do you say.....Probably our finest moment! After arriving to the ground at St Fagans, Wales, we were welcomed to the smell of Barbeques, Aussie music and a throng of well wishers...including the NG girls, a Barmy Army git and a dressed up stick of leek!!!!
Jason Gillespie lined up for the Wattlesprigs as did Ian Harvey, while Graham Hick and Nick Knight played for the Barmy army. Adam Jackson was named captain, won the toss and batted. Ian 'the Freak' Harvey smashed 75 runs while Fish Whiting made 13. Dizzy was 3 not out at the end. The spriggers made 139 all out from their 20 overs.
Robbie Comerford opened up with Gary 'Toilet' Duns while Dizzy Gillespie was not given the new ball by Jackson!
Cambell Smith and David Brooks kept wicket to the great man in Gillespie, while the whole squad got valuable tips from Ian Harvey while he fielded.
Nick Knight, who has played 10 tests and 100 odi's for his country came to the crease while the BBC TV cameras rolled. Jackson decided it was time for our secret weapon Keith 'Doyley' Doyle to make an appearance at the crease. Knight faced the first 2 balls, 1st a wide and 2nd a double bouncer. But the third ball from Doyley, now described as the 'Downunder' ball was just about to bounce twice when the English test opener snicked it onto his stumps....out for 5. The crowd erupted as Doyley took the accolades from his team mates and all the British press.
Jackson was rewarded, by himself, and bowled to the 'Flat track Bully' in Graham Hick. Possibly Jacko's biggest ever wicket....Graham Hick (65 tests, 120 odi's) caught on the boundry off the bowling of Jackson for 46.
Travis Noy was instrumental in the game taking 2 wickets and causing a run out, while Michael 'Fishy' Whiting was awarded the trophy by the Barmy Army for his knock of 13.
Batting: Adrian Betts 10, Gary Duns 0, Travis Noy1, Robby Comerford 10, Cambell Smith 0, Ian Harvey 75, David Parker 6, Adam Jackson 0, Geoff Cameron 9, Greg Duns 1, Jason Gillespie 3 not out.
Bowling: Travis Noy 2/15
Barmy Army 9/129 Wattlesprigs 139 cc. Aussies 1 Poms nil.
The Wattlesprigs song was sung with gusto at the end, while Dizzy Gillespie was presented with an honorary Sprigger Polo top and Ian Harvey a cap...Graham Hick and Nick Knight were presented official stubby holders.
Thankyou to Alex from the Barmy Army for organising the game.....one for the memory banks.

Nick Knight pre game press interview

Jason 'Dizzy' Gillespie does some press

Noel Duns prepares to umpire with the NG girls

Skipper Adam Jackson gets interviewed by Welsh radio

Graham Hick is interviewed by BBC Sky sports

Ian 'Freak' Harvey after a fine 75 for the Wattlesprigs

The Welsh Leek

Barmy Army git or twat!

Game 6 V Lisvane CC

2009-07-07T02:01:00.000-07:00

The game V Lisvane cricket club was a wash out. Some of the boys played golf, while the ladies went into Cardiff for some shopping. Matthew Thompson was awarded the dummy for unsportsmanlike behaviour while playing cards late at night (he just hates losing!) and Adrian Betts was awarded 'The Jester' hat for locking Simon Godfrey out of his room.
Looking forward to the 'Barmy Army' game today, where there will be alot of media coverage of the game.
More details tomorrow.......but it has been confirmed that Ian 'The Freak' Harvey and Jason 'Dizzy Gillespie will play for the Wattlesprigs, while Graeme Hick and Nick Knight will play for the Barmy Army...........

Game 5 V St. Fagans

2009-07-05T22:55:00.000-07:00

After check out from our motel this morning we travelled down to our next hotel 'St Mellons, Best Western. With a surrounding golf course, Edwardian architecture and sizable rooms.....the group is very happy....this will be a most relaxing time for the next few nights.
We played against a red hot team today called St. Fagans, basically the next division down for playing for your county (state) as a few of their young guns go to university down the road and in the squad at Glamorgan CC.
The game was restricted to 25 overs due to rain and a fabulous system called the 'Duckworth/Thompson/Lewis' system....at least our scorer Beaker knew how it worked!
Batting: Moffat 9, Dinsdale 0, Godfrey 6, Wells 0, M Thompson 2, G Thompson 15, P Jackobson 0, Jones 26, Noble 15, Betts 1, Edwards 0. Bowling: Godfrey 1/28, M Thompson 0/43, Jones 0/31, Noble 1/53, J Whiting 0/14, A Thewlis 0/32.
St Fagans 2/206 dft Wattlesprigs 10/87
Today we are off to the golf course in the morning and then the game at 11 am V Lisvane.

Bath - The Ancient City

2009-07-04T22:35:00.000-07:00

After breaky we headed off to the ancient roman town of Bath. The Romans established the town in AD 44 and built the extensive baths complex and a temple to the goddess Sulis - Minerva, due to the underground hot springs that surrounded.
The touring group did many things at Bath today, including visiting the baths, shopping, having a long lunch or taking a scenic boat cruise along the Bristol Avon River.
Major fines today will go to Paul 'Bertha' Hyde who lost the Wattlesprigs car. After parking it (the car) near the Wattlesprigs bus Bertha ventured into town with Adam Jackson and Steve Gemmill. After discovering he had forgotten his camera, which was in the car, poor Bertha looked and looked for the car and eventually found it 2 hrs later. Funnily enough it was in exactly the same spot that had left it!
After a day that was 'chockers full of culture' we made our way to Cardiff in Wales.. Cricket today V St. Fagan's for a 1pm start.

Game 4 V Braunton CC

2009-07-03T18:28:00.000-07:00

A lovely, flat and semi hard pitch meeted us at Braunton. The bus manoevered through the streets with everyone breathing in and making way for the tight 'hedged' passageway! David 'Idi Amin' Parker skippered the side and and did a fabulous job on the field. The spriggers went down to a very competent Braunton side made up of 2 Aussies.

It was the Whiting show however, with dad Mick and son Jordy stealing it. Mick made 48, while son Jordan made 46. Gaz Duns bowled beautifully taking 3 wickets but was hit into the potato feild on 2 ocassions, as was Glenn Whelan. A potato was presented to both players post game.

St. Austell's brewery sponsored the day and the proof whiskey presented to each 'out' batsman was appreciated. Fishy Whiting got the mug and Hoody Ennals gave a great rendition of 'Wattlesprigs 2009 the place to be'....

Score were Wattlesprigs 10/215, Braunton 8/275.
Batting: Moffat 4, Oliver 14, J Whiting 35, Gemmill 28, Doyle 0, M Whiting 47, Edwards 14, Duns 29, Noy 7, G Whelan 11, D Whelan 5. Bowling: Oliver 0/35, J Whiting 1/27, M Whiting 0/22, Edwards 1/16, Duns 3/45, Noy 0/27, G Whelan 1/30, D Whelan 0/66

Off to Cardiff tomorrow via a Bath, but we've already had showers!

Michael 'Fishy' Whiting has a whisky after his fine knock at Bruanton.

Game 3 V Sidmouth CC

2009-07-03T00:49:00.001-07:00

After breakfast and a stroll into Taunton the group got on the bus and drove to the lovely seaside town of Sidmouth. This is another beautiful ground surrounded by deckchairs and ocean, with a double story 'thatched roof' pavillion. Dr. Greg Thompson skippered the team and did a brilliant job, but the highlight of the day belonged to Andrew Thompson who slayed 106 runs and a maiden century in a powerful display of hitting. He smashed his final ball into the croquet club almost 90 metres away.
Batting: G Cameron 23, Betts 18, Jones 47, A Thompson 106, G Thompson 20, Noble 19, Jackobson 26.
Bowling: M Thompson 1/36, A Thewlis 1/23, G Duns 0/18, Jones 1/19, Noble 3/15, Jackson 1/40, C Cameron 1/28, Jackobsen 0/19, G Thompson 1/12 Mug: Andrew Thompson
Final score: Wattlesprigs 4/238 beat Sidmouth 10/210

Andy's 106 at Sidmouth

Cliff pinches Croquet club scones!!!

Game 2 Bridgetown CC

2009-07-01T23:08:00.000-07:00

Well what can you say....possibly the prettiest cricket grounds in the world. We were privileged to play here. After arriving we headed into the town to buy some lunch for the players. It took 1 hr for the sangas but they were quality....Beaker Thompson was handed the dummy by Mary-Anne Thompson for telling the sandwich hands to hurry up! A very soft handover but Mary-Anne was desperate to get rid of it after receiveing it the night prior for calling her husband Greg a very nice man! She said it nicely though!
The bus took some members to the county game Somerset V Yorshire. Justin Langer is the captain coach of Somerset!
Skipper Ranjie Oliver and his team fielded first. Bowling: Comerford 0/28, Godfrey 1/22, D Whelan 2/23, G Duns 2/26, Noy 0/14, Dinsdale 1/18, Jackson 1/5, G Whelan 1/18, Doyle 2/24.
Batting: Oliver 0 (1st duck on tour), Jackson 1, M Thompson 41, D Parker 51, Comerford 9, Smith 38, D Whelan 16, G Duns 11, Noy 5, G Whelan 0, Doyle 0.
Wattlesprigs 10/193 defeated Bridgetown 10/177. After the match we all went to the local pub for dinner. Fines were done on the bus and a beautiful painting of the Bridgetown ground was auctioned and purchased by Campbell Smith. Today was truely one of lifes great cricket experiences. Off to Sidmouth today.

Magnificent Bridgetown CC

Game 1 V Taunton Dean CC

2009-07-01T22:47:00.000-07:00

After a big English cooked breaky we took the bus into Taunton for our first game. Bertha took some of the group to Glastonbury Abbey, an ancient 10th century ruins, reportedly King Arthur and Queen Guinevere were buried there. King Henry the V111 pulled it apart in 1539......prick!
Anton Noble lost the toss and we bowled. Batting: Moffat 27, Dinsdale 36, Jones 43, Noble 22, Betts 1, Jackobson 15, J Whiting 8, Edwards 5, A Thewlis 2, M Whiting 1. Bowling: M Thompson 2/32, Godfrey 1/52, J Whiting 1/59, I Dinsdale 0/15, Michael Whiting 0/24, Noble 1/10, Jones 2/32 lost to Taunton Deane7/225 Wattlesprigs 8/185
Mug went to Rick Jones....well batted! and a special mention to mark Moffat for his keeping and batting......brilliant!
After the game we all went back to the motel. Some went down to the local pub and played a game of pub skittles with the locals.....clearly an exhibition sport at the next olympics! At least we had one win for the day! Game at Bridgetown tomorrow.

Team shot at Taunton Deane CC

Windsor Castle and Stonehenge

2009-07-01T22:30:00.000-07:00

Windsor Castle was a highlight with nearly all tourers taking the guided tour. Some went across to Eaton to look view this magnificent 'college' city. After Windsor the group meandered it's way across the Salisbury Plain and stopped at Stonhenge. Gary Ennals was heavily fined for not getting on the bus in time! At our motel in Taunton we gathered for dinner while David 'Blowie' Parker read out the fines.....over 60 quid was raised! Garry Ennals will be appealing his fine with the help of his defence lawyer later in the trip. 1st game tomorrow V Taunton Deane CC.

Hood meets King Arthur at Stonehenge

Arriving in London

2009-06-28T21:27:00.000-07:00

We made it! After another long haul flight (11hrs) we finally arrived at Heathrow from Seoul. The group was pleased with the selection of movies but unimpressed with Korean Airlines running out of beers 2 hours into the flight! No more rice please! is the call and we can now look forward to some quality cod and chips and shephards pie with heaps af mash and mushy peas.
It was great to meet up with fellow tourers Campbell Smith, Rob Comberford, Adam Jackson and Greg Thompson (Adelaide) last night, who arrived on connecting flights.
We are all off to see the Queen today at Windsor Castle, which is 15 minutes up the road, then off to a famous 'bunch of rocks' they call Stonehenge, followed by dinner at our next accommodation-Premier Inn, Taunton. Our first game V Taunton Deane CC will be tomorrow.
Happy Birthday to Travis Noy and Matt Thompson who both celebrated their birthdays in Korea yesterday...We are also sparing a thought for Todd Duns, whose birthday occured yesterday as well.
The selected team is: Simon Godfrey, Mark Wells, Ian Dinsdale, Peter Jackobson, Anton Noble, Rick Jones, Adrian Betts, Adam Thewlis, Michael Whiting, Jordan Whiting, Mark Moffat, Matthew Edwards and Matthew Thompson.

Beautiful Seoul

2009-06-27T17:00:00.000-07:00

After a gruelling 11 hour flight to Seoul, the Wattlesprigs had a fabulous stay in Down town Seoul. The rooms were big and the service was A1....A few guys decided to frequent the WA Bar and sample a few foriegn beers, but most tourers decided on an early night.
The group has bonded well so far.....and we now look forward to our next big 11 flight to Heathrow......watch out Poms.....the Aussies are coming!!!!@

Time for flight

2009-06-19T02:57:00.000-07:00

Lets have a great night on Friday night at Ciloms but please remember we need to be in the carpark at 4:30am sharp on Saturday morning for our connecting bus to the airport. Dinner on Friday night to start at 7.30pm....Brief speeches, a few beers and then bed!

Current News

2009-06-13T17:42:00.000-07:00

Not many sleeps now!
Have you:
a) Checked and packed your passport?
b) Organised travel to 'Ciloms' in Tullamarine for 'Meet and Greet' night, Friday 26th June 7pm. Saturday JUNE 27: bus transfer to Tullamarine airport leaving at 4.30am. Check in, a bit of breaky, and leave for Seoul on Korean Air at 7.30am.Arrive Seoul at 6.45pm ( 11 hour flight).
* Tour uniforms will be distributed at 'Ciloms' Meet and Greet night.
* Uniforms will be distributed to allocated rooms as well as tourers attending for function only.
* Neat casual attire on the night. NO uniform to be worn (make sure you pack it though!)
Meet and Greet night (Friday 26th June)
Arrive 'Ciloms' 6:30pm
Introduction, Dinner, formalities and Special guest entertainer!
Have a look at a sample of our special guest entertainer at:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-jbTVTup57M

Contact Steve Gemmill: 0011 44 7766469891 or Paul Hyde: 0011 44 7748576335 by phone while on tour.

Kookuburra sponsor

2009-04-20T05:38:00.000-07:00

The Australian Wattlesprigs are very proud of their new sponsor Kookaburra. Their logo will also be embroidered on our playing shirts. Wattlesprigs and Kookaburras, how much more 'Aussie' can you get!

Player profile: David Brooks

2009-04-17T17:54:00.000-07:00

Age: 45

Occupation: Transport Manager

Current club: Barooga CC

Cricketing status: Played club cricket 1980/90's on and off. Ordinary bat and bowler, ok keeper

Reasons for touring: Would be a great experience to have a look around Britain as well as play some social cricket with a group of similar minded Aussies

Favourite food: Pork chops, vegies and chips

Favourite drink: Cartlon Premium Dry

What 4 famous/infamous people from history would you invite to your dinner party and what would be the first question you’d ask them?

Morgan Freeman – 'What Shawshank Redemption based on a true story?" David Attenborough – "Do you really love animals more than your wife?" Sod O'Dwyer – "Why do you drink so quick?" Matthew Richardson – "You have played over 300 odd games for the Tiges why is it you still can't kick?"

Games on tour

2009-04-14T02:00:00.000-07:00

Player codes for games rotations:

a. Simon Godfrey b. Mark Wells c. Ian Dinsdale d. Peter Jacobsen e. Anton Noble f. Rick Jones
g. Adrian Betts h. Adam Thewlis i. Michael Whiting j. Jordan Whiting k. Mark Moffat l. Matthew Edwards m. Matthew Thompson n. Andrew Thompson o. Ranjie Oliver p. Glenn Whelan
q. David Whelan r. Keith Doyle s. Gary Duns t. Travis Noy u. Robert Comerford v. Campbell Smith w. David Parker x. Greg Thompson y. Adam Jackson z. David Brooks aa. Chris Brooks
bb. Geoff Cameron cc. Cliff Cameron dd. Brian Burke ee. Greg Duns gg. Michael Cleary ii. Neil Thewlis kk. Garry Ennals ll. Kevin Thewlis

Games rotations (13 players each game. 2 designated non bats and 2 rotated feilders):

Game 1 VS Taunton Deane CCTuesday 30th June
a.b.c.d.e.f.g.h.i.j.k.l.m.
Game 2 VS Bridgetown CC Wednesday 1st July
n.o.p.q.r.s.t.u.v.w.a.b.c.
Game 3 VS Sidmouth CC Thursday 2nd July
x.y.z.ee.bb.cc.m.n.d.e.f.g.h
Game 4 VS Braunton CC Friday 3rd July
i.j.k.l.o.p.q.r.s.t.u.v.w.
Game 5 VS St Fagan’s CC Sunday 5th July
a.b.c.d.e.f.g.h.i.j.k.l.m.
Game 6 VS Lisvane’ CC Monday 6th July
n.o.p.q.r.s.t.u.v.w.a.b.c.
Game 7 VS Barmy Army X1 Tuesday 7th July
cc.bb.ee.z.y.x.w.v.u.t.s.r.g.
Game 8 VS Claverdon CC 20/20 Friday 10th July
p.o.n.m.l.k.j.i.h.g.f.e.q.
Game 9 VS Temple Grafton CC Sunday 12th July
a.b.c.d.e.f.cc.bb.aa.z.w,y.ee
Game 10 VS Tamworth CC Monday 13th July
p.q.r.s.t.u.v.x.y.z.aa.bb.cc.
Game 11 VS Ingleton CC Wednesday 15th July
cc.bb.aa.z.y.x.w.t.a.b.c.d.e.
Game 12 VS Raby Castle CC (twilight game) 20/20 Wednesday 15th July
gg.ll.kk.ii.dd.g.j.k.l.m.n.o.p.
Game 13 Rawtenstall CC Friday 17th July
f.g.j.k.l.m.n.y.p.q.r.s.t.
Game 14 VS Stamford town CC Sunday 19th July
u.v.x.ee.z.aa.ff.b.c.d.e.f.g.
Game 15 VS 20 / 20 Twilight, Long Melford CC Monday 20st July
j.k.l.m.n.dd.p.q.r.s.u.v.a
Game 16 VS Worlington CC Tuesday 21st July
b.c.d.e.f.g.j.k.l.m.n.o.p.
Game 17 VS Teddington CC, LondonThursday 23rd July
f.g.ee.r.s.bb.cc.a.w.t.h.i.d
Game 18 VS ‘The Test Match’, Shepperton CCFriday 24th July To be selected by committee.

We will also be uploading Youtube footage of cricket stuff while on tour. I reckon this is one of the cleanest, longest cricket shots ever....and he's from Shepparton (Vic, Aust) Hopefully we have a few tourers that can emulate this...have a look:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SRVAJQ2R284

Wattlesprigs History Part 1

Tour managers.Their latest comments.

2009-04-13T02:21:00.000-07:00

UK Logistics Paul Hyde and Aust Operations David Gemmill have their say!

Dad's legacy (Steve and Dave's late father Graham Gemmill)

'Always for the love of cricket'

1. Play to win each contest

2. Play in the spirit of the game

3. Play it because you love it

Graham Gemmill 1947 - 1986

Itinerary

2009-04-13T01:07:00.000-07:00

The Australian Wattlesprigs X1, 2009 Itinerary

Friday JUNE 26
Meet and greet night,Tullamarine.
Dinner and drinks and a bit of shut eye before the early flight the next day.

Saturday JUNE 27
Up at sparrow’s fart – bus transfer to Tullamarine airport leaving at 5.15am
Check in, a bit of breaky, and leave for Seoul on Korean Air at 8.40am.
Arrive Seoul at 6.45pm ( 11 hour flight)
Transfer to airport hotel, free night, your choice of a bite to eat, a few drinks, or forty winks.

Sunday JUNE 28
Breakfast at hotel, and transfer to Seoul airport 9.30am
Check in, relax, and depart for Heathrow 1.15pm
Arrive Heathrow airport London 4.55pm ( 11 hr flight)
Transfer by coach to Holiday Inn, Maidenhead ( 30 mins from airport)
Free night, your choice, maybe try some English ales, have a bite to eat, get to know your fellow tourists, or maybe you are just plain tired – no problems go and get some sleep.

Monday JUNE 29
Breakfast at hotel, and short trip to Windsor Castle for a look around the Queens quarters, beware of Corgi’s.
Continue on to Stonehenge for a look at the famous rocks and a cuppa, and then journey on to Taunton Premier Inn, Somerset, for the first leg of the tour.
Tonight is the tour squad welcome to the UK dinner, a few laughs, food, beverages, introduce squad members, and you will be given a complete overview of what to expect from us, and what we expect from you, not to serious, just some nuts and bolts so everyone understands some tour requirements.
Taunton is the home of apple cider!

Tuesday JUNE 30
Game 1 VS Taunton Deane CC – local team
For non cricketers – this is a great chance to look around the beautiful township of Taunton, which is full of waterside restaurants, and boutique shops.

Wednesday JULY 1
Game 2 VS Bridgetown CC – voted England’s most prettiest ground. A must see for all tourists.

Thursday JULY 2
Game 3 VS Sidmouth CC – a seaside resort at the home of Devonshire teas in of course Devon.
If you hit the ball into the ocean it is worth 12 runs – but beware of sharks when you go and get it.
For non cricketers – Sidmouth is an amazing town for shops, seaside eateries, and the best greasy fish and chips and mushy peas in England.

Friday JULY 3
Game 4 VS Braunton CC
If you are not playing, but love beer tents, big crowds, model T Ford brewery trucks, special home made Wattlesprigs ale, and maybe another streaker, sponsors St Austells brewery always put on a great show, and Braunton CC are always competitive. Chris Rodgers (Aust.) was their pro last time!

Saturday JULY 4
Depart Taunton for Cardiff, Wales for the second leg of the tour.
Stop at historical Bath for lunch, and tour the famous Roman baths.
Arrive at St Mellons, Cardiff, staying at the Best Western Hotel, St Mellons.
Free night, maybe go and have a look at Cardiff night life.
Possible golf afternoon

Sunday JULY 5
Game 5 VS St Fagan’s CC, Cardiff.
For non cricketers, this gives you the chance to explore the beautiful city of Cardiff, Wales.

Monday JULY 6
Game 6 VS Lisvane’ CC, St. Mellon’s, Wales.
A great day trip, and a chance to sing a few songs on the way back to the hotel.

Tuesday JULY 7
Game 7 VS Barmy Army X1 @ St. Fagan’s
If ever we want to win a game this is the one. Not because it’s all about winning, but because they have more songs, and are better singers than us, and the next day at the Ashes cricket you will cop it.

Wednesday JULY 8
Transfer from hotel to Swalec Stadium Cardiff to watch day 1 of the first Ashes test, Australia VS England
OZZIE OZZIE OZZIE OI OI OI.
Australia V England
1st Ashes Test, Day 1, The Ashes, live!

Thursday JULY 9
Depart Cardiff for Temple Grafton, a quaint village in Shakespeare territory, Stratford Upon Avon, near Birmingham.
This will be the start of ‘SHAKESPEARE CRICKET WEEK’.
Very elegant country style accommodation at the Blue Boar, Temple Grafton, and the Red Stag nearby – GOOGLE IT.
Tour squad team dinner tonight at the Stag and Fancy Dress night. Shakespeare has eaten in restaurant, a la carte, oh but don’t order the pheasant, and beware of hotel ghost.
Fancy dress night.
You may like to bring something from home for this night, or purchase some ‘clobber’ from ‘oxfam’ while in the UK!
Ideas: Richie Benaud, Elvis or even Watermelon man!!!!

Friday JULY 10
Game 8 VS Claverdon CC
Traditional rivals, on and off the field, great supper in local hotel after game, and ‘around the barrel races’ are an absolute laugh.

Saturday JULY 11
FREE DAY
Sleep in, go for a game of golf, have a look at Shakespeare’s house in Stratford. It’s your day.

Sunday JULY 12
Game 9 VS Temple Grafton CC ( local team)
Today is lady’s day.
For the lady tourists, you will be treated like royalty at the game, in your own special tent, which will be chockers full of club sandwiches, champagne, and you will be waited on by a lovely English gentleman.

Monday JULY 13
Game 10 VS Tamworth CC
No we are not flying back to Australia for a country music festival! This is Tamworth near Birmingham.
A good day trip, and maybe a bit of bus karaoke on the way home.

Tuesday JULY 14
Travel to Darlington, Nth Yorkshire, in the North of England.
Staying at the beautiful The Croft, Best Western hotel.
Compulsorary dinner Raffles Bistro 7pm.
Meet and greet tour squad dinner with the locals.

Wednesday JULY 15

Double header
Game 11 VS Ingleton CC ( Day game)
Game 12 VS Raby Castle CC ( twilight game) 20/20
Raby castle is an incredible medieval structure and the cricket ground sits right along side it, beware of Oak trees at square leg and roaming deer.
Raby castle will be open for tours during the day.

Thursday JULY 16
Drive to Manchester – staying at the Jury’s Inn. Free night.
Explore the night life of Manchester.

Friday JULY 17
Game 13 Rawtenstall CC
Big crowds at this game
Funky Miller spent a couple of seasons playing for this club!
For the non cricketers the coach will be leaving for Liverpool today for an optional Beatles tour along ‘the long and winding road.’
After the match will be followed by a Curry / Race Night. One not to be missed! Possibly the fixture of the tour! Check out their proud history http://www.rawtenstallcc.co.uk/ Welcome lunch 12 o'clock. Game at 1pm.

Saturday JULY 18
After breakfast, and before we depart for Stamford, the coach will be taking you to Manchester United football stadium and museum for a guided tour.
‘Get an autograph from Rooney, and run down the tunnel onto the pitch, with the crowd screaming in the background.
Drive to Stamford, Lincolnshire
Accommodation at the Garden house hotel
FREE NIGHT

Sunday JULY 19
Game 14 VS Stamford town CC
For the non cricketers, Stamford is a beautiful city to explore.
Visit Burleigh house, an amazing building, picked out by Hitler as a possible home for one of his Generals. Bad luck you lost!
Traditional ‘Hog Night’ at the cricket club – or pig on the spit as us Aussies like to call it.

Monday JULY 20
Travel to Long Melford, Suffolk, via a quick stop in Cambridge for an early lunch.
Accommodation at the George and Dragon and the Crown hotels.
Tour squad BBQ, supplied by the George and Dragon hotel.

Game 15
20 / 20 Twilight, Long Melford CC, 4pm start.

Tuesday JULY 21
Game 16 VS Worlington CC
Back to the George for beers and cheers
Announcement of test team for best performed touring members. (Committee to select)

Wednesday JULY 22
Travel back to Shepperton London
Lunch on the way at the Cricketers hotel, Clavering, traditional roast.
This hotel is owned by Trevor Oliver, father of Jamie, PUKKA.
Accommodation at the Holiday Inn, Shepperton, London
Free night

Thursday JULY 23
Game 17 VS Teddington CC, London
This ground is owned by the Her Majesty, and we have already sent her an invite.
Free night

Friday JULY 24
Final game and traditional test match VS Shepperton, London, for the Ashes.
The Ashes urn sits in the clubhouse.
We haven’t one this game since 1986, and it’s time to bring the Ashes home to it’s rightful home, in Australia.
Game 18 ‘The Test Match’, Shepperton CC

Tour Awards presented: Graham Gemmill medal, Todd Duns feilding award.

Saturday JULY 25
Free day.
Lords tour, London sightseeing, maybe a quick trip to Paris to see Moulin Rouge, as we don’t fly out till late the next day. The Tour De France finishes on this day in Paris!!!!
Your choice.

Sunday JULY 26
Transfer from hotel to Heathrow airport at 5pm for check in, and depart for Seoul at 9.30pm

Monday JULY 27
Arrive Seoul 4.20pm – changeover
Depart for Melbourne at 7.15pm
Arrive Melbourne airport at 7.10am on Tuesday July 28th
Tears, goodbyes, a great tour had by all.

THE TOURERS

Simon Godfrey
Mark Wells
Gary Duns
Brian Burke
Noel Duns
Sandra Dinsdale
Ian Dinsdale
Peter Jacobsen
Neil Thewlis
Deborah Thewlis
Anton Noble
Rick Jones
Adrian Betts
Adam Thewlis
MichaelWhiting
Beverly Whiting
Jordan Whiting
Mark Moffat
Matthew Edwards
Ian Thewlis
Kevin Thewlis
Pauline Thewlis
Michael Cleary
Gregory Morgan
Gary Ennals
Gregory Thompson
Maryanne Thompson
Matthew Thompson
Andrew Thompson
David Brooks
Stephen Gemmill
Ranjie Oliver
Geoff Cameron
Cliff Cameron
Paul Hyde
Glenn Whelan
David Whelan
Archie Ellis
Keith Doyle
Travis Noy
Chris Brooks
Greg Thompson (Adel)
Robert Comerford
Campbell Smith
Greg Duns
David Parker
Adam Jackson

Introducing Cricket playing manager Kevin Thewlis.

Kevin Thewlis is our tour cricket playing manager. 'Kevvy' has had alot of experience in cricket management over many years in Cobram, Melbourne and Bendigo with local and representative teams. He loves the game like all of us and it is our 'plus' to have Kevvy cricket managing the Wattlesprigs. Kevvy also makes the journey with his lovely wife Pauline.

Is that a Thame's Carp or Darwin Barra?

Cricket's Bucket list '25 cricket must do's.

2009-02-14T02:04:00.000-08:00

Inside Edge cricket magazine's 'Cricket's Bucket List' ....we are number 5!