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1983 SEASON
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GRIFFITH CLUB NOTES

Griffith Notes: "Riverina Football Record" April 9, 1983 - No. 1

Hi footie fans, welcome to the 1983 season and as we read of all the new talent injected into the League, you are assured of some entertaining football. A special welcome to all our new players, 1st, 2nd and Under 19's you will help to make up the Swans line-up this season and we hope you will enjoy your season with us as we will enjoy having you here.

Two of our local strays have returned, Jamie Robinson from college, Darrell Collins, a season with the Essendon District League - welcome back boys. Great to see Drew Luhrs and Shane Best back after missing two seasons with injuries.

Our best wishes go to our three Coaches for the '83 season, non-playing First grade coach Bob Greenwood (no stranger to the league), Seconds coach for his second term Ian Wade and also for his third term Under 19's coach Glenn "Billy" Harrison - good luck fellas. On closing may we wish every team in the league an injury-free season and much goodwill.

From the club and its committee, past and present, many thanks to Bert Schmidt for his years of faithful service to the league and best wishes to Garry Allen, may his association with the league be a long and happy one.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" April 17, 1983 - No. 2
I would say all that can be said this week about the Swans poor showing at Wagga. The 1sts award generously donated by 'The Record Centre' was won by Jamie Robinson. The 2nds trophy 'The Fred Holt Memorial' trophy was won by Greg Hill narrowly from Mark Tyndall and Phil Purtill. The Under 19's trophy donated by a great supporter of the club Bill Bock was won by Graham Lyons from Andrew Romagnolo and Simon Hicks. To these donors we say thank you again for your support of our club and players.
Since last week we have a change Under 19's coach. Glen Harrison who was appointed captain of the Firsts stepped down from the Under 19's coaching position and this is being filled by John Bordignon. John has been a great worker for the club.
We invite our visitors and supporters to join us in our club rooms after the game, where refreshments are available, everyone welcome.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" April 24, 1983 - No. 3

Riverina Football Record No. 3 unavailable

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" May 1, 1983 - No. 4
Well, well, well, what a way to answer our critics. Last week saw the Griffith Swans salvage the pride which has been ripped from them in the previous week and not only in the First Grade either. Both the U19’s and 2nds had great wins which allowed us to win three games in one day something we haven’t done since 1981.
The Swans started the day in the U19’s crushing a very young but gutsy A.P.M. team. ‘Nonga’ Bordignon has done a great job with our young fellas and if his enthusiasm rubs off on this charges, they will go well. Best players for the Swans were Simon Hicks, Andrew Romagnolo and Peter Kupsch with six goals each and Adder Andreatta.
The Seconds also had a crushing win over their counterparts. It was one of their best displays for a number of years. Ian Wade deserves this kind of result. Best for the Swans were Shane Best, Bob Berton and Simon ‘Gutz’ Henderson.
After an introduction to a day like that, the Swan First Grade had the pressure on them. However, in a tough match the Swans showed that they have plenty of fight in them by just scraping home. Best players were Drew Hicks with six goals, Robbie Owen, Gerry Toscan, and of course Bob Greenwood. Today we play Narrandera. Let’s show them the fight we displayed last week, and we’ll go home twelve points richer.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" May 8, 1983 - No. 5

The success of the previous week's win failed to rub off against Narrandera, as we lost all three grades.
The First Grade game was the most interesting although the 2nd term proved to be a stumbling block and we allowed the opposition to kick six goals, six behinds to our one goal, three behinds, and the lead they had at half-time enabled them to go on and win by a similar margin. Marty "Ducko" O'Donnell giving away several inches to his lanky opponent, won the Griffith Record Centre award.
The Seconds shocked everyone including dedicated coach Ian "Sheeds" Wade and played like a team of "so and so's" to allow the Narrandera side to run all over them and record the easiest win of the day. With more than 15 players awaiting a game, the side will want to find form or some will be on the sidelines watching the next game. Stephen Crack in a polished display of football, won the Fred Holt Memorial award.
The inexperienced Under 19's put up a fine display only to lose to a better side on the day. The boys went into the game without young captain Simon Hicks who was unavailable, obviously missed his ruck work and team play, but many new players more than made up for him. Three games veteran Brian Bellincanta won the Bock's Express award and had support from Rod McDermott, Graham Lyons, Jamie Alpen, Scott Grinly and Andrew Romagnolo. These boys will improve undoubtedly to form a strong combination.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" May 15, 1983 - No. 6

Well, the Swans managed to pull off one of their best wins for a couple of years in a hard-fought victory over the GGGM side. As Bob said after the game, it was a disciplined team effort which bought us the invaluable four points.
There were many good players in that great team effort the pick of the flock being big Gerard Toscan his partner in crime Robbie Owen, Marty ‘Ducky' O'Donnell and indeed everyone who took the field. If the discipline of last weeks win is there then Turvey Park had better be careful. The Second 18 suffered defeat at the hands of their Lion opponents. It must be said to their credit that they never gave in and often when it looked like being a slaughter they fought back to go down by only a few goals. Best for the Swans were Wal Foye and Steve Crack. The U19s after having the game well in their possession lost a close decision by 12 points against GGGM. The fellas showed their inexperience but they showed enough glimpses of good play to show they'll be a good team. Best players were Simon Hicks. Andrew and Paul Romanolgo. Graham Lyons and Peter Prince. Congrats must also go to ‘Drewpy’ Drew Hicks who has been selected in the Teal Cup side. Well done!

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" May 22, 1983 - No. 7
Once again, we failed in our bid to win away from home. Although we came within a whisker of knocking off Turvey, we once again managed only two quarters of football. Still, the fight was there and no doubt Ardlethan are in for a torrid time at home today. Best for the Swannies were Robbie Owen, Darrell Collins, Glenn "Hitman" McLeod, Jamie Robinson, Wayne Bottcher and Drew "Donger" Hicks.
The Seconds, by contrast, put in an excellent four quarter effort to soundly defeat the more fancied opponents. This game proved we have class and now we need is the consistency to be a top side. Best players were Steve "Tich" Buchanan, Peter "Madness" Madden and Peter "4 a.m." Casey.
It was disappointing to see the Swans could only field 16 players in the Under 19's. However, once the school holidays are over we should get a few back. Despite this disadvantage the young Swannies battled on gamely against the bigger, more experienced Turvey Park side. Best for the Swans were Simon Hicks, Wayne "Tangles" Wade, Paul Romagnolo and Craig Murray. Anyway, best of luck to all grades today, and hopefully we can pick up three wins.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" June 5, 1983 - No. 8
In what only can be described as abysmal weather, the Griffith side managed two wins from three games of football that were played. The day started off with a very close game in the Under 19's. The Swans, after leading for most of the day went down to the Stars by just two points. Once again they showed some inexperience, but as shown their enthusiasm was there, which should stand them in good stead for the rest of the season. Best players were Paul McLeod, Anthony Blackshaw and Andrew Romagnolo.
The Seconds put up a great effort, Ian Wade has got the boys firing and if they continue on in this vain then they could find themselves perched in the four. The Swans had many good players, Garry Owen, Greg "Bondi Tram" Payne, Ben "Doon" Hall being amongst them.
Once again the Firsts proved that they have what it takes to be a top side when they convincingly defeated Ardlethan in a rugged encounter. There was plenty of beef being used and it was great to see everyone in their fighting for each other. Bob Greenwood has got everyone committed which only can be good for the Club. Best for the Swannies were Greg Hill, Darrell Collins, Mark Buchanan and Paul Sparkes.
It was great to see many people at the "Aussie" night on Friday. I'm sure everyone will agree it was a great night, and thanks must go to the two bands and also the organisers of the night. Up the Swans!

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" June 12, 1983 - No. 9
Well, what can you do but hang our heads in wonder as to what went wrong last weekend over at Leeton. The Firsts suffered possibly their worst defeat of the season and as a result we have yet to break the away ground hoodoo. Still, we have five important games coming up which should see us swing back into contention, starting today against the Hoppers. Best players for the Swans were Glen McLeod, Paul Hocking, Paul Sparkes and Wayne Bottcher.
The Seconds again played great football to end up defeating the Redlegs quite convincingly. Having a look at the side it definitely resembled the Swans first grade of last year. The tremendous depth in the club can only be beneficial to the club as a whole. Best for the Swannies were Max Turner, Garry Owen and the team as a whole. Congratulations fellas and a win today would be a tremendous boast to the whole club.
Perhaps the greatest feat of the day belonged to "Nonga" Bordignon and his charges in the Under 19's. After having led all day in the last couple of matches and been beaten, they last week showed great tenacity to come from behind to snatch a thrilling win against third placed Leeton. This showed great courage and with an effort the same should see them with another four points. Best were Mick Agnew and of course, the two Romagnolo's.
This weekend is a big weekend for the Swans, both on and off the field. Therefore the club must take this chance to thank all its sponsors. These include Baldi and Fletcher, Dowell Clearbright and Don Best & Son. Also Websters Soft Drinks who sponsor our Best & Fairest award, Irrigana Motor Inn, the Record Centre and Bill Bocks Transport for providing weekly awards. All these are greatly appreciated.
Finally, congratulations to Garry and Sheree Owen on the birth of their son. No doubt another Swan in the making.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" June 26, 1983 - No. 10

Well, not the most successful day for the Swans, but one which the Griffith boys showed a lot of character and determination.

The Firsts went down by a couple of goals in a close match which could have been anybodies. Best for Griffith was Wayne Bottcher who ran like there was free beer at the other end of the field and Gerry Toscan who played a ripper. Neil Thompson, in the backline, was as safe as a pig in a Jewish restaurant.
The Seconds went down in another close encounter and were unaided by an umpire who was as consistent as a Liberal policy speech.

Best were Drew Luhrs, who I think has never heard of gravity. Ian Wade was also outstanding as he took more marks than he's had pension cheques. Craig (he gave me a beer) Brand was also good on the backline.
But the Under 19's were the toast of the club. A good display of teamwork, guts and discipline saw them give the Grasshoppers a damn good beating. Best was Jamie "Golden Gloves" Alpen who saw more action than the Ghurka's in India. Simon Hicks played another gem while Paul R (his last name is too big to fit in the programme) played a screamer.
Next week's game against East Wagga should be another thriller, and we hope the Hawks will be well and truly plucked. Up the Swannies.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" July 3, 1983 - No. 11
Good morning viewers. Two great wins for the Swans on Sunday and a real thriller in the Firsts, which had the members stand full of atmosphere and plenty of amber cheer.
The First-grade game was another - so close, but yet so far encounter. We showed great character in being able to come back but couldn't quite hold the lead. The Irrigana Inn award went to Gerry Toscan who marked well with his shovel sized hands. Other top players were Darrell Collins, Neil Thompson and Glen (what a party) McLeod.
The Seconds had a top win, although the Hawks came back a bit in the last quarter. The Mug (pewter) went to Glen (fill'er up) Hall in a dazzling display. As for Max Turner, if he had a beer for every drink, handball and mark he got, he'd be blind for a month.
Nonga's Thirds continued their run to the top four with a great victory. Their ranks were bolstered with a couple of senior players who decided it was time to have a run. Best were Mick Agnew, Jamie Alpen and Andrew Romagnolo. The surprise of the forwards was Adder (Andreatta) the human pear. Incidentally there's no truth in the rumour that he's been poached by Barellan for a dozen Pizza's.
On the social side (ha!) the Car Rally last Monday week was a great show, although Paul Sparkes had a rally on his own on Sunday night until the argument with a certain tree.
This week we face Wagga Tigers and hopefully we can reverse the first-round results. Swans Forever!

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" July 10, 1983 - No. 12

Robert Greenwood must have the Barry Manilow song. ‘What can I say' ringing through his head as the Ist Grade were again beaten by a disciplined, fast moving Wagga side in a game they had to win. This week his broken air, conditioning unit in his car isn't the only problem facing him as we face another tough encounter against Ariah Park today. Glen MacLeod won the lrrigana award with Gerry Toscan and Darrell Collins putting in good games.
Ian Wade led his team to a hard fought win in which Stevie Crack won the award with a sterling display of football in which even the so-called experts could learn a thing or two. ‘Denis’ Luhrs, ‘Rocket’ Roy Agresta, Mike Thompson and Greg ‘Splat’ Collins played well. This side has an excellent chance of re-paying Ian Wade (some calling Sheedy) for his 30 years service to the Club by contesting the finals this year and taking home the Pennant.
Well this once unknown coach John ‘David Parkin' Bordignon has welded together a formidable combination in the U19s with the Wagga side being another feather in their cap (in their quest for the Holy Grail) as their push towards the finals gathers momentum. Jamie Alpen won the Billy Bock Award for yet another ‘Ross Glendinning' style game and Paulie 'the mouth' Romagnolo (correct spelling, editor please note) put in what he believes was his best performance all year. But the whole team put in a performance worth congratulating. But each week is a do-or-die encounter so don't relax this week.
Congratulations must be extended to Trish & Glenn Harrison and Barbs & Ian Wade on additions to their already famous families.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" July 17, 1983 - No. 13
The long, cold trip to Ariah Park didn't quite pay the dividends we had expected.
The First grade were in it till three quarter time only to fall away in the last quarter and make the loss seem worse. Wayne Bottcher and Neil Thompson won the awards.
The Second grade played what some believe was their worst game all year. "Mousey-T-Harrison", famous country & western flamingo guitarist and 2nd grade back-pocket player reckons it was almost as bad as Fitzroy's loss to the GREAT Carlton team the day before. The loss puts the side out of the four and it will require a big effort to get back in, let alone contest the finals. Phil "Harmesie" Purtill and Ian "I feel like Kevin Sheedy" Wade were the award winners in a game few will want to remember.
The Under 19's win was nothing to write home to mum about as the A.P.M. side played far better than their position on the ladder indicates. Either side could have won the game but fortunately our boys took the vital four points. Andrew Romagnolo, Jamie Alpen and young Simon Hicks were best players although Paulie "are you sick of living" Romagnolo reckon he deserves a mention and Wayne Wade wanted to see his name printed for once.
This week Narrandera, and it will be another hard game with all three sides needing the win.
A late message to hand is that Tony Hicks has recovered from Thursday Nite Fever and might make training. Also congratulations to Paul MacLeod who celebrated his 19th birthday on Sunday.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" July 24, 1983 - No. 14

In a game which saw the "A" Grade put together one of their best performances all year ended in a *x~#!! draw, and only a loss would have been more heart-breaking. Everyone can hold their heads for a great effort, but as the legendary Ronald Dale Barassi once said "the only disgrace in failing is if you only half tried or three quarters tried or 99% tried".
Hopefully they have turned the corner and will go on to win many more games from here on. Robbie Owen and Mark Buchanan won the awards with Paulie "Spaceman" Sparkes, Darrell Collins, Gerry Toscan, Marty O'Donnell and Neil Thompson also putting in sterling efforts.
Moving right along to the dismal Second grade. 'Poor old' Ian Wade has had more setbacks than a space shuttle project with the side going down for the second week in a row. Although the score was close, coming second in football doesn't count. Glen Hall won the award with Ian Wade and Phil Purtill playing good games.
The Under 19's, the Club's once glamour side, were demolished by a far better side in Narrandera. Maybe the boys will learn a lesson from the defeat as it's the tough matches in which playing as a team with a 100% effort from everyone involved count and help us into the finals.
This week we clash with Ganmain-Grong Grong-Matong and let's hope we come home with three wins.
Congratulations must go to a talented, dedicated young footballer Simon Hicks, who apart from captaining the Under 19's, has been selected to represent N.S.W. in both Under 15's and Under 16's, and on Monday celebrated his 15th Birthday!

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" July 31, 1983 - No. 15
"WIN" - three letters which have been so near, yet so far this season, but on Sunday it fell into place - a convincing victory against Ganmain AWAY from home with the whole team contributing towards this long-awaited occasion.
Gerry Toscan won the Irrigana award with Damien "The Whale" Ryan, Goolgowi's very own galloping gasometer winning the Record Centre award. Although 20 players deserve mention only Darrell Collins, Greg "Scenic" Hill and Robert Prest (who is considering going into radio with a talkback program with umpires) will get one.
But one must not forget young Andrew "top this one Paulie" Romagnolo's fine First grade debut, Andrew being the brother to the famous Las Vegas & Macarthur Street megastar Paulie "come'n'see me" Romagnolo. Bobby "sludge guts" Greenwood's hard work and dedication has finally paid off, so keep it up fellas!
Now to a completely different tale one of wow & despair, of frustrated 2nds footballers and their weekly battle to win games. The bus which came back from Goolgowi performed better than this side. Was it that they lacked the on-field leadership of Ian Wade or didn't fire like Garry Owen, no doubt the loss will spur them to win this week. In a game which produced few memorable moments none tried harder than Pete Casey, Phil Purtill, Robert "Studso" Brauman and Drew "Dennis" Luhrs.
The Under 19's severely undermanned, played the first half like group of sewerage workers on their way to a convention, while the second half produced a 100% effort worthwhile mentioning. Although no loss should be praised, the fact that they outscored Ganmain in the last two quarters and the way they played says it all. Graham Lyons won the Bill Bock award with his 110% gut-busting effort closely followed by Simon "I was only 15" Hicks, while Craig "Muzza" Murray's second half performance was a more 'smashing' than a ride to work on Friday morning and Peter "Nose Job" Kupsch payed a gutsy game as did Mark "Doris Day" Whalan who's made more come backs than a boomerang or a president! Today Turvey Park and we'll knock the bull out of these dogs!
Thanks must go to Mr. & Mrs. Buchanan, Tich, Mark and "The Whale" for last Thursday night at Gowie.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" August 7, 1983 - No. 16

Last Sunday saw the Swans defeated in all grades in what can only be described as Artic conditions.
In the Firsts, the Swans battled gamely before going down to the desperate Bulldog combination. Once again it was one quarter which let us down. Best players were Darrell Collins, Glenn McCleod and Gerry Toscan.
The Seconds put up a spirited effort before succumbing to a more experienced opposition. It was great to see players such as Mark Buchanan, Ritchie Turner and Peter Casey shining on what otherwise a very bleak day.
Credit must go to John "Nonga" Bordignon and his Under 19's side. Although convincingly beaten, they put up a great fight against much older and bigger opposition. Best for the Swans were Drew and Simon Hicks, Jamie Alpen, Graham Lyons and Darrell Johnstone.
Well today is the moment of truth for not only the three teams but indeed the club as a whole. It is imperative that we come away from Ardlethan with three wins. Best of luck to all grades and Up the Swannies!

SPOTLIGHT ON 'RULES' - By JACK LUHRS
When brothers Tony, Drew and Simon Hicks were selected in the Swans' side last Sunday to play Ardlethan, they continued a unique aspect of the club, the fielding of a trio of brothers in one side on the same day.
The previous occasion when three brothers gained joint selection was last year when Max, Kelvin and Richard Turner ran onto the field in the same side.
Previously, the Robins brothers, Sid, Wayne and Ralph, in 1974, extended the unusual happening a step further when they not only fielded in the same side but between them, comprised the complete half back line.
Wayne "Chummy", later lost his life in tragic circumstances while working with a highway construction company near Albury.
The "Wayne Robins Memorial Shield" for the person giving outstanding service and contribution to the Griffith club, is presented yearly by the Robins family in his memory.
The Hicks brothers are the sons of Joan and Noel Hicks, the Federal Member for Riverina.
Simon recently gained selection in the New South Wales side to play in a schoolboy all-state carnival in Brisbane .... he turned 15 years in July, Drew was 16 last December and Tony, is 18. Source - The Area News (Wednesday, August 10, 1983)

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" August 14, 1983 - No. 17
Our trip to Ardlethan paid off very well as we came home with three pleasing wins.
The First grade team put together some splendid football to record a hard earned win on a ground with more sand mining potential than Fraser Island. Mark Buchanan and Garry "Muddy" Waters won the Irrigana and Record Centre awards and were more prominent that the new change rooms at the ground. Darrell Collins, who was more elusive than a Jika Jika Prisoner. Gerry Toscan, Robbie Owen and Robert Prest played their usual above average games. Congratulations must go to young Simon Hicks who made his first grade debut to be in the side with his brothers Drew and Tony. A fine morale boosting win which we hope will end the debate we had of being relegated.
The Second grade win resembled an expecting mother, it was long, overdue and no-one could pin point the date it was to happen. Ian Wade, who has had as much luck as Sydney Swans in Melbourne led the charges superbly but it was Max (a million) Turner who turned in a great game to win the Fred Holt Memorial Trophy. Drew Luhrs played a fine game as well but was a little disheartened as the conditions didn't suit his "lying down Luhrs marks".
The Under 19's struggled desperately to luckily come away with the points. The numbers of errors in the game overshadowed the number of royal commissions being currently conducted. The winner of the Bill Bock award was Jamie Alpen who had more contact with the ball than ASIO has had with Mr Combe's phone. Graham Lyons, Peter Prince, Anthony Blackshaw and "tape it up" Mick Agnew played good games although the team played worse than Essendon in an elimination final. This week Leeton, so another trifecta - Up the Swans.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" August 21, 1983 - No. 18

Another week, another trifecta. We had more wins in the past two weeks than Raj's kids have had feeds.
The First grade win was well and truly established by half time with a 100% whole-hearted team effort proving more successful than Robert Prest, who gave Leeton more trouble than the Liberals have given Joh Bjelke-Petersen this week, won the Irrigana award with Steve "Tich" Buchanan giving the Leeton backline more trouble than Andrew Stathis gave Bishops Gate Insurance Co., winning the Record Centre award. Along with good games from Wayne Bottcher, Drew Hicks and Darrell Collins to top off a great day.
Wadey's Second graders performed exceptionally well to record a comfortable win. Shane Best won the Fred Holt Memorial award turning in a fine performance from the centre, ably supported by Peter Casey (Jones) and Phil Purtill, this paved the way for a morale boosting win.
The Under 19's outclassed Leeton from the word go with all players contributing to the pleasing win. The Bill Bock award went to Peter (watch the nose) Kupsch whose Bruce Doull off field character and Kenny Hunter on field performances have been an inspiration to the young team all year. The whole side can be proud of the win with Andy Romagnolo, Graham Lyons, Mark Tyndall, Bazza Spry and Mick "tape it" Agnew put in exceptional games.

Special mention must be made to Rod McDermott who found out breakdowns don't only occur on the farm. The hat tricks on this week, so let's jump the Hoppers on their home ground.

GRIFFITH NOTES: "Riverina Football Record" August 28, 1983 - No. 19
The First-grade side came away second best, as to say, after Sunday's encounter with Coolamon. The long trip and the undulating landscape of the ground, which must of inspired the "Police" to write their "Walking on the Moon" song, are obstacles hard to overcome every year and to meet a side at their prime makes it a little more harder. I'm sure every player wants to remember it as well as Steve "Tich" Buchanan, as he was "lost in space" and for a while resemble Stewie Greenwood on the Melbourne trip. Fine games turned in by Glen Macleod, who won the Irrigana award, Robert Prest, winning the Record Centre, Darrell "The Pin" Collins, Gerry Toscan, Robbie Owen and Neil Thompson.
Nothing much to report about the Second except to say they were completely flogged by the opposition.
The Under 19's edged closer to the four defeating Coolamon in the early match. Playing more direct and determined football they were able to get on top early and take the vital four points. Kevin "Manilow" Zuccato won the Bill Bock award closely followed by Adrian Andreazza, Andy Romagnolo, Paulie Romagnolo who is more cheeky than Adda in a pair of G-Strings, Graham Lyons who is a cross between Leigh Matthews and Bette Midler, Mick Agnew, Barry Spry and Wayne "Superboot" Wade who come to be only 100 goals behind Bernie Quinlan after kicking a goal from 12" (304mm) out directly in front.
Congratulations to Bob Greenwood on being re-appointed as coach in '84 and thanks to Mr. Chris Blackshaw for filling in till the proper umpire turned up in the Under 19's.
Final game this week and at East Wagga so let's make it a worthwhile trip. Up The Swannies!!

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