As the North Central Football League (NCFL) season has now officially drawn to a close, the energy and excitement across Mt. Wycheproof and Nullawil communities is shifting towards putting Buloke on show, one wonderful event at a time.
The merging of Wycheproof-Narraport and Nullawil, two famous country football teams, marks a new chapter of strength and unity, combining talent, passion, and significant community spirit. The collaboration is not only set to preserve the rich traditions of both clubs, but also paves the way for a stronger future on and off the field.
With shared resources, fresh energy, and a united vision, the team is poised to achieve new successes, build lasting camaraderie, and inspire the next generation of players. Together, they will undoubtedly look forward to a future filled with opportunity, resilience, and growth.
A King, Queen and more
Event 1: First-up, the highly anticipated Riordan King of the Mountain races and food and wine picnic will be staged this Australian Football League (AFL) long-weekend across Centenary Park and Mount Wycheproof precincts.
The occasion provides the ideal opportunity for visitors and locals to come together for a fun-filled day of athletic contests, family entertainment and community spirit. Culminating in crowning of King and Queen accolades alongside relaxed picnic offerings and the ideal setting to view the 2024 AFL Grand Final on the big screen.
Saddle up
Event 2: Following closely is the return of Elders Mt. Wycheproof Cup Day – “Derby Day in the Country”, on Saturday, November 2. A standout event on the Country Racing Victoria Spring Racing Carnival calendar that promises thrilling horse racing action and a celebration of all things Mt. Wycheproof.
Following the recent successful Lexus Melbourne Cup Tour (LMCT) visit and event launch, the volunteer club and community are firmly in event planning mode and eagerly counting down to Cup Day. The LMCT visit was filled with many memorable highlights and imagery associated from the day will be further shared via this publication leading into “Derby Day in the Country”. One unique snap captured acknowledged and celebrated the “end of an era” for Wycheproof-Narraport and Nullawil in football terms, whilst as part of the tour’s official schedule managed to communicate so much more. Read on.
What a snap
Although there was no getting their hands on the coveted NCFL Halfhide Premiership Cup trophy in 2024, these talented athlete representatives had their hands firmly set on a trophy of a different kind… “The Cup”, “The People’s Cup”, “The 2024 Lexus Melbourne Cup”, as they prepare for offseason community events and successful new beginnings as the reimagined Calder United Lions in 2025.
Alongside Living Legends equine stars “Prince of Penzance”, “Twilight Payment” and their respective staff-handlers, together with Mervyn Keane, official LMCT Ambassador, Richmond Premiership Player and football mentor/ legend, these locals were “snapped” atop of Mt. Wycheproof. The chance encounter was the ideal environment to celebrate “The Cup” and Spring Racing, talk all things footy amalgamations and preparations for the upcoming King of the Mountain event.
Event calendars across the Buloke region are certainly brimming, generating tourism and business opportunities.
This article appeared in The Buloke Times, 24 September 2024.
