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About Martin Flanagan
About Martin Flanagan
Martin Flanagan was born in Tasmania in 1955 and graduated in law from the University of Tasmania in 1975. He has been with The Age since 1985. He is the author of ten books including two novels, a book of poetry and two collections of his newspaper writing. In 2004, the Malthouse Theatre staged an adaptation of his novel The Call, an imaginative reconstruction of the life of Tom Wills, the founder of Australian football. Although best known as a sports writer, Martin describes his special interest as Australian culture with particular emphasis on the relationship between indigenous and non-indigenous Australians. He is also a great believer in the capacity of newspapers to act as vehicles for non-fiction story-telling.
Demons must keep up fight — like Jimmy
Before Thursday, when it was announced that Melbourne Football Club president Jim Stynes is battling cancer, I had often thought that Melbourne's two biggest assets were its history and its leader.
Kicking goals for Middle East peace
Jews and Palestinians found the power in unity and being teammates at the AFL International Cup.
Allure of Vic Park, like art, is priceless
Last week, a sign was posted on the glass doors of what was previously the Collingwood Social Club at Victoria Park by the City of Yarra saying no one is allowed in the building.
Liam Jurrah, Warlpiri wonder
Big business is taking place at the MCG tomorrow night, and it's about much more than footy.
It's best to stay grounded, even in footy
One week ago, speaking at a Melbourne Catholic school, I was asked to address the question: "Does the media influence our view of reality?" Of course, I said.
Fans want flair, not backwards thinking
Last Sunday, Melbourne forward Russell "Robbo" Robertson attempted to kick a goal while lying on his back in the goalsquare.
Demon stalwarts open up on red and blue legends
A doorman's longevity rests with keeping hands at waist height, writes Martin Flanagan.
Aboriginal players light up the Bombers
It's Dreamtime at the 'G tonight, the Bombers play the Tigers. The prospect of the game is exciting because the Bombers are exciting.
Melbourne fans love football, hate handball
The Dees would chase the footy to Darwin, it's what they do when they get it.
Tigers must look to the past to go forward
In 2005, I interviewed Wayne Campbell before his 297th and final game with Richmond. We met at Punt Road.
There are reasons to watch Demons - but that winning feeling isn't one
It is not easy to follow a losing team, when a near miss may be the best you get, writes Martin Flanagan.
Buckley's stories make a great journey
On Tuesday I drove to Moyston and back with Nathan Buckley. That's about six hours talking footy.
Demons' grand comedy of life
When all else fails there's always humour, mirth and talk.
Thomas in the doghouse with Fraser call
Grant Thomas' view is not the only view of the incident but it is the one that will be remembered.
On a day for remembering, the Bombers carve out a victory we won't forget
It was a classic encounter between an older, experienced team and a young team that plays with flair.
Down home Melbourne Demon
James McDonald is quiet off the field but making his presence felt on it.
Devil in the Dee-tale
Melbourne's win was a turn up for the books and the oft-maligned Brad Miller was at the heart of it.
A day for remembrance and perspective
The highlight of the Anzac round is Essendon and Collingwood at the 'G. Among his many ideas, this stands as one of Kevin Sheedy's most successful.
Bulldogs lose their man of God, and a great clubman
The Bulldogs are mourning the loss of chaplain Ian Corlett.
In the heart of chaos, courage will prevail
Nothing's better than when Melbourne's silly season starts up.
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