Some moments in travel stay with you not because of where you are, but because of what you feel. Standing among more than 71,000 people at the MCG for the Anzac Eve match, I felt it all—unity, reverence, history, and the quiet power of shared silence.

From the Light Horsemen carrying the eternal flame to the haunting stillness of the Last Post, the night unfolded like a living memorial. And when Melbourne’s victory song echoed around the stadium, it carried me back to my own memories of country footy glory and the simple pride of belonging.

If you ever find yourself in Melbourne in April, the Anzac Eve game is something to experience with your whole heart—part ceremony, part sport, and entirely unforgettable.

Originally written on December 15, 2012, this post captures the bittersweet transition from life in Calgary back to the familiar warmth of home. After emotional goodbyes, a marathon journey across continents, and the joy of a Mallee homecoming, these reflections celebrate the beauty of slowing down, reconnecting with loved ones, and rediscovering the simple magic of country life.