■ Former world boxing champion Barry Michael left Williamstown to do the Kokoda trek a few weeks back, but unfortunately it did not turn out well. After six days of pretty intense trekking, torrential rain made the track more hazardous than normal. Barry fell and re-injured his ribs, but soldiered on until he could take no more. He was in a bad way and had to be choppered to the nearest hospital. He cried, not from the physical pain of his broken ribs and bruises, but from the emotional toll of seeing what our brave soldiers went through. Barry’s father, Len, 94, was a British fighter pilot in WWII. Barry is back home and recovering and will be ready for his next big fight night (as a promoter) on April 13 at Melbourne Pavilion.
■ Another western suburbs icon passed last week, with the death of Williamstown Football Club Legend Gerry Callahan. “The Monster” was a colossus on and off the field with a big personality to match his unbelievable football career. He was a Seagulls legend, captain of the Team of the Century, five-time premiership captain and coached the club to two flags. He played 171 games and kicked 75 goals, with the club best and fairest medal named in his honour. Condolences from all sports fans in the west to Peggy and Gerry’s family and friends. A great man. RIP.
■ The Yarraville Club Cricket Club is a flag magnet. In another win in the senior VTCA competition, the boys from Hansen Reserve did it in fine style on the back of another lion-hearted bowling display from Evan Bronca. The veteran took 7-50 off 25 overs. Will Sheridan steered the side home with an unbeaten century assisted by Ben Tupper, who was 50 not out. In the subbies, Williamstown defeated Kew to take the premiership. Tim Gage took a match-winning 5-12 to get Werribee home in the twos.
■ The top end of Australian rules footy might be in great shape financially, but local clubs continue to struggle, with Keilor Park the latest to pull the pin in the EDFL and have its senior men’s teams go into recess. In the WRFL, all eyes will be on Glenorden, which is returning after a similar break. It will be very tough, but the Hawks have been through a lot in recent years. I wish them the best and hope they get the support, on and off the field, they need to make the club strong again.
