December 2004
Was it really that long ago? Let me explain…
It would have been in the November that the principal of Quest School phoned to say that the local sports club that is (almost) adjacent to the school had been asked to host The Barmy Army’s charity event and wanted to donate the proceeds to us!
Remarkable.
Prior to the first test on any overseas tour The Barmy Army contact a local cricket club and hold a charity event, normally a limited overs match between their members and a ‘celebrity’ local team, followed by an auction of tickets, various memorabilia and a ‘fines’ session.
I made contact with Dave, the club captain and volunteered any help if he needed, not necessary he said but if I could arrange for a couple of children to come along, fine.
The event was planned for the 16th December, the day before the 1st test starting at St Georges Park and as luck would have it a public holiday!
Well, we arranged for a couple of extra items for the auction (a couple of cellphones, helicopter flip, game drive, the sort of things that a touring cricket supporter could use) and arranged a school picnic with all the children in their school tracksuits.
As you can see, I bought the autographed bat!
What a great day (it went well into the night), what a great bunch of guys and girls (yes there are some female supporters), there’s a lot more to ‘them’ than the beerswilling, chanting, cricket supporters that you see on your screens.
Boadicea's Chariot 
Interesting post, Soutie – thanks!
The Barmy Army always appear to get an affectionate treatment from the commentators on Australian TV, and in the local Press. They’re not regarded as thugs or hooligans (or hoons) here. 🙂
I must admit Soutie, I have never encountered the Barmy Army, but a quick Google has given me the bare outlines.
They seem to do charitable works and enjoy cricket, so frankly I cannot anything wrong with that!
sorry omitted the “see”!
Nice piece, Soutie, missed it first time around.