THE HISTORY OF WEST HAWTHORN / HAWTHORN CRICKET CLUB 1947/48 - 2023/24 Foundation and Growth 1947/48 - 56/57 West Hawthorn CC was formed back in 1947, at a meeting of players and friends from the Hawthorn Colts U/15s football team. It was led by their coach and Hawthorn FC rover, Alan “Snowy" Jensen at 32 Connell St. West Hawthorn. One matting side was entered into the ESCA competition in 1947/48 and the Club has been a member continuously since that first season. Home games were played at the tiny Fairview Park ground by the Yarra River. Balls frequently had to be fished out of the water with a long pole and net. In 1949/50 the Club entered a turf team based at Burke Road South Reserve, which became West Hawthorn’s home for nearly 40 years. 18 year old Bert Tilley scored his maiden century with a magnificent 198 in the 1XI and Allan Henry smashed 168 in the 2XI B matting side. Bert tried his luck at Hawthorn-East Melbourne for a brief stint and returned to become West Hawthorn’s highest run scorer with 11,076 runs @ 32.58.The other stand out player of this first decade was John “Sconesy” Harris, known as for his express bouncers on uncovered wickets. In his prime, John averaged 60 wickets a season and captured 935 of them at 11.93 over 25 seasons. His older brother Peter, not as quick but deadly accurate, took 364 wickets at 14.26. The Club featured regularly in finals over its first 10 seasons but could not bring home top honours. The first Team of the Decade included; Ray Armstrong, Ted Dietrich, Jack Forde, John Harris, Alan Jensen, Roy McLean, Naish Reilly, Bert Tilley, Les Wain, Lindsay Wickham, Bill and John Yole. West Hawthorn Decade 1957/58 - 66/67 West Hawthorn finally broke through in 1957/58 with its first Premiership in Turf 2 against Deepdene. Promised a “fair dinkum fight with no quarters given” by opposition captain Roy Laws, West Hawthorn batted first and were bundled out for only 50. Peter Harris struck back claiming 6/21 to have Deepdene all out for 75. In the second dig, Wests managed to set a victory target of 120 which Deepdene fell short of by some 15 runs. Throughout this decade the Club produced strong, competitive sides but Premierships continued to be elusive. Great mateship, loyalty and fun was had by all, on and off the field. 1960 saw the first Life Members of the Club anointed in Les Yole and Bill Jeffries, followed by other foundation players in Vin Kennedy (1963) and Ted Dietrich and John Harris (1964). A Junior side was formed in 1963/64, which heralded the careers of many fine senior players, culminating in back to back, Un/16s Flags in 1967/68 and 68/69. Among those juniors were; Les Quarrell, Graeme Yole (son of John), Tony Tongue and Jon Kozeniauskas. Graeme, Tony and Jon were all to become long serving Club Executives. Players in the 1957/58 - 66/67 Team of the Decade were; Ray Allsop, Ray Armstrong, Roy Beal, Tom Cooksey, Ted Dietrich, Colin Green, John Harris, Peter Harris, Tony Johnson, Gordon Roberts, Bert Tilley and John Yole. Players in the 1957/58 - 66/67 Team of the Decade were; Ray Allsop, Ray Armstrong, Roy Beal, Tom Cooksey, Ted Dietrich, Colin Green, John Harris, Peter Harris, Tony Johnson, Gordon Roberts, Bert Tilley and John Yole. West Hawthorn Decade 1967/68 - 76/77 Express bowler, Bob Moller captured 9/16, prior to 1970 in the 1XI to record the best bowling figures in the Club’s 77 season history. Two other 1XI 9-fers followed with Arnie Jensen’s 9/42 in 1967/68 and John Harris’ 9/35 in 1969/70. In 1970, Jon Kozeniauskas (aka Koz), who had debuted in the 1XI as a 15 year old, firebrand bowler, moved to Melbourne University CC to play District 1XI for five seasons. Due to back problems, he adapted into a dangerous all-rounder and belligerent batsman on his return to the Club. “Captain Koz” led the 1XI for some 13 seasons from 1976/77 through to 1991/92. Two highly prominent arrivals in the early 70’s were Jerry Tsiligiannis, aka Tylas (1970/71) and Mark Fitzpatrick (1973/74) who were to both become major contributors in the 1XI, top committee men and later, fantastic captains in the 2nd and 4th XIs. Merger brings name change and use of Rathmines Road Reserve. In 1972/73 the Club merged with Hawthorn District CC, (also established in 1947/48) to become West Hawthorn District CC. Hawthorn District had one turf team, and shared Rathmines Reserve with Hawthorn East-Melbourne CC at one stage. The merger gave both clubs more stability with 2 turf sides, two matting sides and full use of Rathmines Road Reserve. Ray Armstrong retired as Club President at the end of this season after a 15 year stint. Colin Martin from Hawthorn District CC took over as the new President. Col was an excellent administrator who led the Club for 8 seasons. He was also actively involved in many roles with ESCA from 1969 to 2001, including Junior Chairman for 12 years and President for 7 years. Col played a major role in the merger of the ESCA and ESDCCA in 1999/00. He was President of the ECA for its first 2 seasons and retired after 33 years of continuous service. The West Hawthorn and Hawthorn District CC merger however, was not a happy one. Within two years, the Club reverted back to West Hawthorn CC and dropped back to 3 Senior sides in 1975/76. Foundation player Vin Kennedy established the Best All-Round Performer trophy in 1976/77, bearing his name. It was judged on a points system for runs, wickets and fielding, for all team members in the club. The inaugural winner was Jon Kozeniauskas, an award Jon won 8 times. The 1970s saw 6 Life Memberships awarded to long serving players and in 1974, June Yole and Margaret Harris were also honoured for their services to the Club. Members of the 1967/68 - 76/77 Team of the Decade were: Fred Allsop, Robert Aylen, Bernie Crimmins, John Harris, Ray Hitch, Jon Kozeniauskas, Colin Martin, Bob Moller, Ian Niquet, Allan Sleeth, and Bert and David Tilley and Jerry Tsiligiannis. West Hawthorn Decade 1977/78 - 86/87 In 1979/80 all 3 Senior teams made the Grand Final. The 2XI ended the 20 year Premiership drought by defeating Surrey Hills in D-Turf. Bowling first, wickets were hard to come by. Skipper Richard Large brought on leggie Allen Sleeth as first change, who picked up 2 quick wickets. Combining with Gary Allsop, Steve MItchell and Ian Niquet, Surrey Hills were all out for around 150 well before stumps. West Hawthorn started badly but recovered to pass Surrey Hills about 5 down on Day 2, with Mark Reid and Steve MItchell (75) at the crease. Allsop contributed a valuable 50 and Westies finished with just over 300. That was enough for Surrey Hills to concede and hand West Hawthorn the 1979/80 Premiership. Two seasons later the 1XI won the A-Grade Flag to elevate the Club back into Senior Turf. Burwood elected to bat and were all out for 166, Grant Fawcett (4/55) and Jon Koz (4/34) did the bulk of damage. Graeme Yole (40) was solid but the team were in trouble at 7/146. Captain Koz steadied the ship, scoring a famous 180* with Bill Karvellis (30) to guide the Hawks to an impenetrable total of 351. The next season Grant Fawcett took 42 wickets in Senior Turf and 1983/84 saw the arrival of 17 year old Michael Torriero, who was to make a huge contribution to the Club as an opening batsman. The 1977/78 - 86/87 Team of the Decade was dominated by Jon Koz, with 6 consecutive Vin Kennedy Awards, 7-1XI Batting and 4-1XI Bowling averages. The other members included; Jim Christodoulias, Grant Fawcett, Mark Fitzpatrick, Allen Juskin, Bill Karvellis, Richard Large, Jamie Lucas, Steve Mitchell, Noel Morgan, Tony Tongue, Jerry Tsiligiannis and Graeme Yole. West Hawthorn Decade 1987/88 - 96/97 In 1989 Rathmines Reserve became West Hawthorn’s home base. This decade saw Mick Torriero take over the mantle of top 1XI batsman on 6 occasions. 1990/91 saw a 4XI team back at the Club after a 15 year absence. The Junior program was re-established in 1992/93 thanks to Tony Tongue and Graeme Yole. Peter Harris retired in 1994 after an outstanding contribution of 31 seasons as Club Treasurer. In 1995, Stephen and Michael Yole marked a 3rd generation of West Hawthorn players in the Un/14s alongside Marcus Tilley, youngest son of Bert Tilley. In the Un/16s, Alex Kozeniauskas, Andrew and Robert Tongue were capping off an impressive Father-Son tradition at the Club. The 1987/88 - 96/97 Team of the Decade was; Brad and Greg Alcock, Graeme Biffin, Peter Coe, Victor Dimasi, James Farmer, Grant and Tim Fawcett, Michael Karayannis, Kevin Stallworthy, Michael Torriero, Jeff Vaneede and Graeme Yole. In 1997 West Hawthorn celebrated its 50th season , 6 players were inducted into the inaugural West Hawthorn CC - Hall of Fame West Hawthorn Decade 1997/98 - 06/07 The next decade proved to be the most successful period in the Club’s history to date. In 1997/98, the 1XI made the Grand Final with 4 members who had come through the Junior program. The Un/12s won a Premiership that season, however it was to be an ongoing struggle keeping Junior teams on the park. A Junior Section Revival Plan was created by Tony and Andrew Tongue, taking the Club from no Juniors in 2001/02 to fielding teams across Un/10s, Un/12s, Un/14s and Un/16s. Coaching support came from John, Graeme, Stephen and Michael Yole, Marcus Tilley, and Rob Tongue. In the latter half of this decade Andrew Waugh-Young took over as Junior Coordinator and the program expanding to 5 Junior teams with a Give every kid a Role to play and a Fair go approach. Jerry Tylas returned to the Club in 1998 to play in the 4XI after retiring in 1991. His mate Jon Koz captained the team and smashed 208 vs. Mulgrave to become the first Double Centurian for the Club. New addition to The Hall of Fame Graeme Yole was inducted into the West Hawthorn - Hall of Fame in 1999 for his huge contribution over 29 seasons of Senior cricket and 28 Junior games with the Club. Graeme was President for the past 7 seasons and Secretary for 2 seasons prior to that. His on field achievements included playing in the 1981/82 1XI Premiership, Captain of the 1XI twice, duel Team of the Decade member, winning the 1XI batting averages twice plus a Vin Kennedy Award. Graeme was also a large contributor for the Junior program. In 1999/00 the ESCA merged with the ESDCCA to form the ECA and the Club’s Vets team became a Senior 5XI, to help Juniors integrate into Senior cricket. Graeme Yole notched up his 300th game in the 4XI with a 91* alongside his 2 sons Stephen and Michael. Tony Hughan single-handedly dismissed La Trobe University at St. James Park in the 3XI, taking 9/23 off 11 overs into the breeze. Tony became the 4th West Hawthorn player to take 9 wickets in an innings. Sadly the opposition did not have a No.11 in the team! That same season, the 2XI C-Turf Premiership, led by Mark Fitzpatrick, broke an 18 year drought for the Club. Batting first the Hawks amassed 354 against Bulleen. The heroes were Andrew Tongue, with a maiden (113) and Victor Dimasi (60), who put on a 128 run partnership for the 5th wicket. Bulleen were all out for 223 in reply. In 2000/01, a young Robert Tongue departed to Camberwell Magpies CC after being selected in the Un/18s Vic Metro side. Rob averaged 61.75 with the bat and 12.33 with the ball for the Inner East Emus Premiership side. He spent 2 seasons with the Camberwell Magpies, gaining valuable experience for his return to the Club in 2002/03. In the same season, the 4XI won their first Flag in C-Grade Synthetic under Jerry Tylas, in his first year as captain. The 4XI defended 238 against Glen Iris United. Jerry was the hero, chaired off the ground by his team mates. 2001/02 saw the arrival of Milo In2 Cricket for boys and girls aged 5 - 8, run by Tony Tongue. John Yole announced his retirement from the committee after 54 years of service to the Club. New arrival Quentin Sear made a record high 175* at Rathmines Reserve in the 3XI Semi Final but the team lost to Deepdene Bears in the Grand Final. The Club changes name for a brighter future On 24th June, 2002, under President Jon Koz, West Hawthorn CC officially changed its name to Hawthorn CC, to advance the Club’s profile in the community. The name change was aimed to attract more players and sponsorship dollars, which proved successful. It also reflected a wider presence with 3 home grounds at St. James Park in West Hawthorn, Auburn Quarry Reserve, down near Toorak Road and Rathmines Reserve in East Hawthorn. A confident vibe ran through the Club for season 2002/03. Mark Fitzpatrick had led a group of 14 Hawks on a memorable 3 week cricket tour of England and Scotland in the winter. New arrival Rob Tempone scored a Club record 213* off 135 balls at St. James Park in the 3XI and 3 out of 5 Senior teams made Grand Finals. On a sour note, the Club’s application to build a new net facility at St. James Park near the corner of Barton and Denmark Sts. was defeated by Council. A squattish palm tree magically appeared within weeks on that very site after the announcement! 2 out of 3 Premierships in 2002/03 The 1XI led by Michael Torriero in his second stint as captain, took on old rivals North Balwyn for the A-Turf Flag. North Balwyn elected to bat on a good track but superb fielding and pressure bowling had them all out for 101. In reply Hawthorn passed the target 7 down and limped to 124. North Balwyn chased fast runs, declaring at 4/170. Day 3 was delayed by a wet start and Captain Torriero, in his 200th game for the Hawks, carried his bat with 31* for a tense 48 overs, with Quentin Sear (34) to finish on 1/89 and A-Turf Premiers. Josh Crane won the ECA A-Turf Bowling averages that season with 31 wickets at 11.10. The 4XI, had a tight contest making 220 against Camberwell Salvation Army on the small ground at Frog Hollow. Graeme Yole top scored with 87 and gloved 4 catches. With a strong bowling attack they dismissed their opponents for 194 to claim their 2nd Premiership in 3 years under Jerry Tylas. In contrast, the 3XI lost 3 Grand Finals between 2002-2004, making a total of 7 attempts for the 3XI. In the 2002/03 Final, Peter Angelis made a maiden 142, chasing 324 but the team fell 36 runs short. The ECA - Turf Team of the Century 2002/03 marked the Centenary of the ESCA/ECA competition and Hawthorn CC entered 3 nominations for the Turf Team of the Century - Bert Tilley 342 Games 11,076 runs @ 32.58 and 525 catches John Harris 285 Games 935 Wickets @ 11.93 Jon Kozeniauskas 335 Games 9,308 runs @ 30.72 and 414 Wickets @ 15.04 At a special ECA dinner on 11th April 2003, all 3 nominees were in the top 33 short list but disappointingly, none made the final Team of the Century. In 2003/04 the Club moved its training base from the Auburn Quarry Reserve to the plush net facility at Carey Grammar’s Kew campus for 3 seasons due to the dilapidated 2 net facility and ground conditions not fit for the Club’s needs. This was eventually resolved with the ground being refurbished and a new 4 wicket facility was built with grant assistance. 2004/05 saw the arrival of a new 1XI captain/coach, Mehul ‘Taj’ Somaia, an elegant opening bat coming off coaching Old Haileybury CC to 3 successive premierships. The 1XI had big challenges with some key players travelling overseas and the coach sidelined with a hernia operation. They did not fair well in Dunstan Shield despite Marcus McMeekin taking 35 wickets at 11.26. The 1XI were relegated back to A-Turf the next season. The 2XI however, won the C-Turf Grand Final after being relegated the season before. Skipper Brad Alcock led a powerful team against Donvale. Quentin Sear opened with 75 and Marcus Tilley (74*) played the anchor for 99 overs to reach a total of 254. Donvale were 2/101 but Hawthorn struck back to have them shaking at 7/132. After some resistance, Donvale were all out for under 200 with Brad Alcock taking 4/63 and Andrew Monk 4/53. The 3XI made the semi-finals for a fourth consecutive season but could not go further this time around. The Juniors continued to grow with 4 teams and parental involvement. Tony Tongue still ran the Milo In2Cricket sessions in addition to being President of the ECA Junior Section. In April 2005, Rob Tongue was awarded the Hodge Medal for best player at the VMCU Under 21 Carnival while representing the ECA. Four months later, Tony Tongue was awarded Life Membership of the ECA for being instrumental in the expansion of the ECA Junior Section over the past 12 seasons. Tony was a Grade Secretary from 1993/94 and became Junior Chairman in 2002/03. Four months later, Tony Tongue was awarded Life Membership of the ECA for being instrumental in the expansion of the ECA Junior Section over the past 12 seasons. Tony was a Grade Secretary from 1993/94 and became Junior Chairman in 2002/03. Moving out of Rathies, a new Legend and a 1XI Flag In September 2005 the Club vacated the old, green pavilion at Rathmines Reserve which was to be demolished. A larger pavilion of similar style was to be constructed on the same site. The timber pavilion started life near the railway yards in East Melbourne in the 1920s, moved soon after to the Glenferrie Oval and again to Rathmines Reserve in 1938. The 3XI was relocated to McCutcheon Oval in Yarra Bend for the 2005/06 season. Graeme Yole (left) presenting Mark Fitzpatrick with his Hall of Fame Award - Nov 2005. In November 2005, Mark Fitzpatrick was inducted into the Hawthorn CC - Hall of Fame at a Life Members function for his exceptional contribution to the Club since joining in 1973. Fitzy had done it all including being net captain, providing jobs to players and evolving into an opening batsman with close to 500 wickets and 5,000 runs for Hawthorn CC. Hawthorn’s Junior Program grew to 5 teams with 62 juniors registered. The 1XI and 3XI again had strong seasons and made the Finals. The 1XI faced off against Old Carey at Surrey Park, in the A-Turf Grand Final. Mehul Somaia won the toss and batted. Mick Torriero was solid at the top with 56 and Mehul, batting at No.3, compiled a quality knock of 89. Toby Mullen chipped in with 22 in Hawthorn’s Quartet of Quicks were on song and Old Carey wickets tumbled regularly. Josh Crane (3/25) broke through with first 3 wickets to have them 3/33. Kendall Stewart (3/28) and Rob Tongue (2/45) picked up the next 5 wickets to have Old Carey 8/91. Tim Wilson-Humphries (1/19) bowled the next batter and with a final run out, Stewart to Mullen, Old Carey were dismissed for 132. Hawthorn batted out the match reaching 5/190 to claim the 2005/06 A-Turf Premiership. Toby Mullen top scored with 48, Rob Tongue and Rob Tempone were both not out on 38 at the end. The new pavilion at Rathmines Reserve was ready to go and shortly after the Club was back training at The Auburn Quarry with a new, 4 net facility and centre wicket. Andrew Tongue returned from 2 years of work and travel overseas and Dhruv Pandya scored 203 in the 4XI to become the 3rd Double Centurian for the Club. 60 Years Celebration and a Junior Flag Hawthorn CC celebrated its 60th anniversary by unveiling its Donor Bricks paving installation at Rathmines Reserve on 18 February 2007 at its Super Sunday Event. A 20/20 match HCC City v Country was held and the Team of the Decade was announced to a packed crowd of over 100 people. The 1997/98 - 06/07 Team of the Decade was; Brad Alcock, Josh Crane, Victor Dimasi, Marcus McMeekin, Toby Mullen, Quentin Sear, Paul Stocks, Marcus Tilley, Andrew Tongue, Robert Tongue, Michael Torriero, Jeff Vaneede and Tim Wilson-Humphries. In the Juniors Section, the U/14s team coached by Marcus Tilley, celebrated by winning a Premiership, the 4th in the Juniors Club history. Hawthorn Decade 2007/08 - 16/17 All the hard work in building up the Club in the previous decade established Hawthorn CC as one of the largest clubs in the ECA. The momentum continued and Finals became a regular feature for many sides. With the 1XI back in Dunstan Shield, Michael Torriero took over the coaching role for 2007/08 with a focus on fitness preparation. It was the era of the “Hawthorn Grind” for our 1XI. Their strong bowling attack and pressure in the field was the formula for winning by attrition and when they were on, it worked a treat. The 1XI finished a creditable 6th in Dunstan Shield. 3XI recruit Angus Donaldson smashed a Club record 34 off an over, batting at No.11 vs. La Trobe University and claimed match figures of 7/72. In the 5XI Shiva Kallure captured 8/34 vs. North Balwyn Combined and the 5XI reached their first Grand Final but went down to Mulgrave defending 211. Hawthorn mourns the loss of a Club Legend Rob Tongue took over the coaching role in 2008/09 but the Club was mourning the tragic loss of Club Legend, Mark Fitzpatrick to cancer in the pre-season. To honour Fitzy’s contribution to HCC the Club established the Mark Fitzpatrick Most Valuable Team Member Award, voted by the players 3,2,1 for the persons they feel have contributed most to their enjoyment of cricket during the season. This was the Club’s “True Spirit of Cricket“ award. The Junior Section now featured 7 teams and around 100 players, with Stephen Yole’s Un/12 team winning a Premiership. 2 other teams also made finals. John Yole passes Club Record to his Son Graeme Yole’s 395th game in the 5XI surpassed his father John Yole’s Club record of 394 games, just prior to Christmas in 2008. Graeme’s 400 games milestone was achieved in February 2009. John said that it was one of his proudest moments in his association with the Club. 4 of the 5 Senior teams featured in finals that season. The 1XI (Dunstan) and 4XI (A1 Synth.) made Grand Finals but both missed out on a Flag. The 1XI batted first against East Doncaster in a reduced 80 overs a side affair. Captain Rob Tongue made 50 and Steve Pask 47 in a total of 221. In a tense Day 2, bowling too straight and dropped catches proved to be the downfall for Hawthorn, losing by just 3 wickets in the 3rd last over of the day. Another Legend passes and Juniors progress in the Senior ranks On 1st November 2009, Club Founding Father and Hall of Famer, John Mortimer Yole passed away from a long illness ending a 63 year involvement with the Club and 34 seasons as a player. His service to the Club off the field covered many committee roles and a huge contribution to the Junior program In his later years John was fondly remembered behind the bar, heating pies and cleaning up after a long day. He was always around to watch on the progress of his beloved Club. In 2009/10 a 6XI was added to the Senior section. Andrew Waugh-Young led a 5XI Junior development team in F-Turf and dominated with the bat, scoring 3 centuries and a total of 635 runs across 3 grades. Of the 7 Junior teams, 3 played in finals, 19 Juniors played Senior cricket and 6 Juniors played in Representative Carnivals. The 1XI and 2XI narrowly missed Finals that season and the 4XI lost in a storm ravaged Semi-Final to Surrey Hills. 2010/11 got off to the wettest start in living memory and became the wettest Melbourne summer on record. Hawthorn CC held its best Super Sunday to date at Rathmines Reserve, commencing with an inaugural Gala Breakfast, Milo in2 Cricket, Junior T20 game on Turf followed by a Seniors Over 30s vs. Under 30s game. The entertainment was enhanced with special guest, Kangaroos ruckman, Todd Goldstein, live music from duet, Patterns for Paper and a jumping castle. A huge effort again from Coordinator Marcus Tilley, these events bring the entire club together for a fantastic family day. The 4XI under Club President Stuart Stockdale, finished 3rd and won their way through to the F-Turf Grand Final. Unfortunately they were out classed by Bulleen. The 3XI break their Grand Final Hoodoo The 3XI, led by Liam Routledge, faced Mulgrave in the E-Turf Grand Final, with 9 unsuccessful finals attempts over 40 years the hunger was palpable. Bowling first, they dismissed Mulgrave for just 142 after a superb 5 wicket haul from Hyder Khan. They chased down the target 6 wickets down with Tom Zavecz (36*) belting the winning runs. 2011/12 saw the Club’s first appearance in the ECA T20 Cup finals since entering in 2008/09. It was an exciting period for Hawthorn reaching T20 Finals in 6 of the next 8 seasons. It also saw a return of a Veterans team led by Kevin Stallworthy. The 1XI missed Finals on percentage in Dunstan Shield after being top of the table at Christmas and the 6XI reached its first Semi-Final under Graeme Yole. International Cricket comes to Hawthorn The highlight of the season was the Super Sunday on 29th January, 2012 which saw a Papua New Guinea T20 development team, take on HCC in a thrilling International Charity Match at Rathmines Reserve. HCC were supplemented with Premier cricketers, Clive Rose and Mark Simpson, plus English keeper/batsman Paul Summerskill. The PNG players got involved in a Milo In2 Cricket display, which was followed by an intra club mixed Seniors and Juniors curtain raiser. In the Main Event, PNG batted first making 9/141, with Jason Kila (30) top scoring. Dave Middleton , Jackson Brazzale and Dan van den Hoek picked up 2 international wickets each. In reply, Mark Simpson (31), Jeff Baker (23), Rob Tongue (22) got starts and the match came down to the very last ball. Needing 2 to win, Will Lawton on 18, was caught behind, giving PNG the narrowest of victories. MP Josh Frydenburgh presented the trophy to the winning skipper Jack Vare. HCC performance coach Dan van den Hoek organised the event, which provided a flood of donated, second hand cricket equipment for PNG to aid the development of kids cricket. Adam Cassidy from the ICC East Asia Pacific Regional Office attended the match along with Radio Australia. In the Junior section, team numbers were dropping off but quality was still prominent with the addition of Les Quarrell as Junior Development Coach. The Un/16s Blue team won their Grand Final against Manningham CC under direction from Marcus Tilley and Michael Yole. 2 more Premierships followed for the Un14s in 2012/13 and Un/12s in 2013/14. Changes at the top for the 1XI Season 2012/13 heralded in the arrival of Dale “Wilko” Wilkinson from Ashwood CC as the new HIPE Coach (High Intensity Performance Expectations) for the revamped A-Squad. Dale came with an impressive resume of captain/coaching experience at Ashwood and involvement with the Victorian Un/19s squad. After 4 seasons Rob Tongue handed over the 1XI captaincy to Garth Ancher, who had established himself as a very capable 1XI all-rounder in his first 2 seasons at the Club. Rob’s achievements over those 4 years were outstanding, leading the 1XI into the Dunstan Shield Grand Final in his first year and winning the Dunstan Medal. He was voted Captain of the ECA Turf Team of the Decade the following year and collected 92 wickets at 17.45 and 1,699 runs at 52.1 over the period. The 3XI became the Club’s Turf development team, they made the E-Turf Grand Final but went down o Ringwood. The 5XI moved into the LOC Div 2 and along with the T20 XI, 6XI in LOC 5 and the Vets XI, all made the Semis but could not go further. Vets captain, Kevin Stallworthy, reached his 300 Game milestone for the club during the season. The 1XI again were edged out of Finals by 0.05% despite winning their last game in the final round. The 2XI also narrowly missed finishing in 5th spot. McGeary 250* re-writes Records 2013/14 saw HCC’s highest individual score record smashed by Cory McGeary with 250* at St. James Park in the 4XI, G-Turf against Deepdene Bears. It was Cory’s maiden century and boy he went big! The 1XI finished 5th for the 2nd season in a row on percentage in Dunstan Shield. The 3XI, 4XI and 5XI made Finals that year with the 3XI losing the Grand final for the second season in a row under skipper Naveen Radhappan. Hawthorn moves training base to H.A. Smith Reserve In 2014/15, HCC moved its training base from The Auburn Quarry to the newly refurbished H.A. Smith Reserve in Glenferrie Rd, due to the efforts of Facilities Manager Graeme Yole. The ground was immaculate, had an impressive new pavilion and 4 east/west oriented nets close by, which was welcome relief from the long walk to the Quarry nets. West Hawthorn had played at H.A. Smith in the past, so it was a welcomed return. Hawthorn wins Melbourne Stars - Most Family friendly and Inclusive Club Hawthorn won the $10,000 main prize in the Melbourne Stars Club 2015/16 Program for being the most “Family friendly and inclusive Stars Club” based on the summary below: Starting our Junior program in 1963, having 3rd generation members playing Seniors, being very multi-cultural with 40% of our senior players born overseas and promoting a Multicultural Kids Come and Try Day to our local community. Dave Hayden, who submitted the winning entry, and Paul Mitchell received s $10,000 cheque from Eddie McGuire at the MCG at a Melbourne Stars game. In 2015/16 Channa Gunawardana took a Double Hat-trick with 4/17 in the 5XI. The 3XI and 4XI played off in the D-Turf and F-Turf Grand Finals but neither team were able to win the Premiership. The next 2 seasons saw few highs for the 1XI being relegated back to Wright Shield in 2016/17 where they finished second last on the table. That season 3 teams reached the Grand Final. The 2XI lost the C-Turf Grand Final to Mont Albert, the 3XI hoodoo continued making it 3 heart breakers in 4 seasons for Skipper and Club President Naveen Radhappan. However the 4XI won handsomely against Mazenod in the G-Turf Grand Final after 4 successive seasons of finals appearances. Making 8/152, the Hawks then routed Mazenod for 56 with the stand out bowlers being Nirman Choksi (5/6) and Amit Gupta (4/22). Michael Torriero passed 10,000 runs for the Club and 350 games in December 2016. Cory McGeary had a huge season with the bat with 810 runs across 4 teams to win his 3rd Best All Round Performer trophy. 1XI skipper Dale Wilkinson had a great season winning the Bert Tilley Batting and John Harris Bowling 1XI trophies, taking 30 wickets at 14.77 with his leggies. A new Legend for the Hall of Fame On the 18 March 2017, Jerry Tsiligiannis was inducted as the 9th player in the HCC Hall of Fame. Jerry played 18 straight seasons (185 games) as a 1XI top order batsman. He returned in 1998 after a 7 season break and captained the 4XI to 2 Flags. In 2000/01 he made 673 runs, including his highest score of 151 n.o. and led his team to win a Premiership in B2 Synthetic. Jerry guided the 4XI to a second Flag in 2002/03. His passion and drive elevated the team to the 3XI in Burt Shield for season 2009/10. Jerry played 364 games in all for the Club, including in the 1981/82 1XI Premiership, 11 seasons in the 4XI and 3 in the Vets and some games for the 5XI, scoring 7,726 runs at 22.33. He was also a dedicated committee man and served many years as Club Vice President. Hawthorn CC - 2017/18 to 2023/24 The next chapter for Hawthorn CC was an exciting and challenging period for the Club. Dale Wilkinson took over as President of the Club for this period. In 2017/18 with English pro Matt Salisbury, HCC reached the T20 Preliminary Final against North Balwyn. It was the Club’s highest finish in this tournament to date. Dismissed for only 89, the boys went down by 5 wickets and the Bulls went on to win the T20 Grand Final. Celebrations for the Gala 70 Years of Cricket Held in February, 2018 at Box Hill Golf Club. Well over 100 people attended with many past players including Vin Kennedy in his 90s, who flew down from Queensland for the event. 2007/08 - 16/17 Team of the Decade (Back Row): Toby Mullen, Kendall Stewart, Alex Strauch, Andrew Cossar, Michael Torriero, Dale Wilkinson. (Front Row): Mehul Somaia, Robert Tongue, Garth Ancher, Robert Tempone and Matt Laing. The 1XI rebounded after being relegated from Dunstan Shield and played off the Wright Shield Grand Final against Heathmont at HE Parker Reserve. Ben Morris (123*) guided Heathmont to a total of 9/249. The Hawks toiled in their reply with Jack Robinson (33), Akshay Trivedi (30) Rob Tongue (18) and Matt Salisbury (18) getting starts but unable to keep up with the run rate. Hawthorn ended on 174 all out, going down by 75 runs. Channa leads 5XI to their first Flag and is appointed Coach The 5XI won their first Premiership under captain Channa Gunawardana, knocking off undefeated Waverley Wanderers. A superb 8 over spell of 3/7 from Channa restricted Waverley to 136. HCC passed the total 8 down in a tense battle with Naveen Gomez (33*) steering them to victory. The Junior section was running well but had dropped back to 4 teams, reflecting the modern challenges of keeping young teenagers in club cricket. In 2018/19, Channa was appointed as Club Coach, a role he held for the next 5 seasons. A classy allrounder who has played Sri Lankan Under 19s cricket, Channa, was a true professional. His experience was a great asset for the Club, along with him bringing in many new players to Hawthorn through his cricketing connections. Only the 2XI made the finals in 2018/19, led by Rob Tongue but they were beaten in their Semi-Final by a strong Marcellin. There were few highlights in 2019/20. The 4XI had a good year in G-Turf but lost their Semi-Final against Heathmont. Nick Crowe hit a 4, then ran down to the chasing fielder who had collapsed on the boundary, and gave him CPR until the ambulance arrived. The 1XI finished bottom in the Wright Shield. Debbie Elliott became the 38th Life Member of the Club after 10 years of service as Club Secretary, the only non-player to fill the role and the Club’s 5th female Life Member. Debbie was Lee Fedden’s partner at the time of his passing in 2006. 2020/21 brought COVID-19 to cricket and life everywhere was impacted. Registering attendances via QR codes, disinfecting and no sharing afternoon teas, changed the playing landscape for everyone but still the desire to play cricket remained. 1XI triumphs in Grand Final over Mulgrave Back in A-Turf, the 1XI finished 2nd after the home and away season and played Mulgrave in the Grand Final. The 4XI again made the Semi-Finals but were beaten by Sth. Camberwell. Mulgrave batted first in the 1XI’s Grand Final at Rathmines Reserve and were dismissed for 149. Nigel van der Wert was the pick of the bowlers (3/21) off 7 overs. Rob Tongue (2/5) off 5 overs bowled a treat before straining a hamstring and Tom Barel (2/9) cleaned up the tail. In reply Hawthorn passed the target 4 wickets down with Rob Ryan (62*) in full control and Ollie Chauhan (46). Rob Ryan was awarded Man of the Match. Hawthorn launches its first Women’s Team 2021/22 was a special season for the Club with their first Women’s team entering the Inner East Social Women’s T20 Competition. The girls were recruited by Coach Pat Dower, after many failed attempts to get a side up and running. Predominantly aged in their early to mid 20’s they were spearheaded by the 3 Chongs; Stephanie (C), Tracey and Julie and the batting power of Sweety Chawla. Much hard work with coaching was provided and the girls flourished, going through undefeated to win the Premiership in their first season - HCC 7/116 d. Koonung Heights 6/60. Rob Ryan took over the captaincy of the 1XI in 2021/22 after winning the Bert Tilley Batting Award for the previous 2 seasons. Rob was also putting in a huge effort in a range of committee roles. Channa’s exceptional season breaks another Club record Channa Gunawardana broke a 24 year old Club record scoring 916 runs in 2021/22, averaging 61.07 in the 4XI and Vets 1XI, including 3 centuries. The previous record was 885 runs by Jon Koz in 1997/98. Channa also led the 4XI to another Premiership in G-Turf betting East Malvern Tooronga, 198 to 8/96. Rizwan Mohamed top scored with 53 and Giles Matthews took 3/12. Other teams to reach finals were the 2XI and 5XI and the Vets 2XI lost their first Grand Final after going through undefeated. The following season the Vets 2XI won the 2022/23 Vets Division 5 Premiership scoring 5/210 to defeat STC Sth. Camberwell who could only manage 144. Nigel Pickford (45*) and Tim Bayles (42*) were the top scorers and bowling honours were shared. The Women’s team go Back to Back and a Double Century in the 2XI Hawthorn’s Women’s Social team lost just one game in their 2nd season. In the Grand Final they dismissed St. Kevins in the for 79 with wickets shared around and passed the target 3 wickets down. In the last round in 2023 in the 2XI, Nitin Grover (pictured right) scored 200* off the final ball of the day, to become the Club’s 5th person to do so. However Nitin was unable to carry that form into their Semi Final, which they lost. A watershed season for Hawthorn CC 2023/24 was a very challenging year for Hawthorn CC. A significant number of players chose not to return and played elsewhere or not at all, which greatly impacted the depth of the Club’s top 3 teams. The Junior program was firing strongly at Woolies Cricket Blast level thanks to Rob Tongue and Neil Gray, however there were just 2 Mixed Juniors sides at Un/10s and Un/12s level. Neil Gray took over the Senior coaching position from Channa, with assistant Coach Michael Yole. Channa had chosen to coach elsewhere, closer to his home in the outer eastern suburbs but continued as Captain the 5XI Sunday Turf 2 side. Vale - Bert Tilley and the Women’s Team achieves a 3 Peat The Club was saddened by the passing of Founding Father and Club Legend - Bert Tilley on 20th December, 2023 at the age of 91. Bert played 342 games from 1947 to 1993/94 including 2 Vets games in 1998/99. He scored 11,076 runs at an average of 32.58, won 21 1XI batting averages and was an outstanding wicket keeper. Bert was nominated for the ECA Turf Team of the Century and made the top 33 list along with John Harris and Jon Kozeniauskas. The 1XI and 2XI both finished 2023/24 on the bottom of A-Turf and C-Turf due to high rotations of players up from lower levels. An HCC 3XI invitational team of refugees made the Semi-finals but could not go on. Both Vets teams made the Semis but proceeded no further. Rob Tongue played his 300th senior game for the Club in the Vets 1XI and then scored 101 to rescue the 2XI against Mazanod in their final round win. The Mighty Hawthorn Women’s team Playing in the EWGC Senior A Division, made it 3 in a Row by beating rival Koonung Heights 7/152 to 4/93 in the Grand Final, at H.A. Smith Reserve. Chloe Scott and Amelia Wikramanayake both scored 30. Chloe won the EWGC Association A-Grade Batting Average. Hawthorn CC faces a big decision Three ECA clubs had made approaches to HCC to discuss merger proposals. After careful consideration the committee agreed to select the club with the best natural fit and pursue further discussions. Neighbouring cricket club Boroondara presented a detailed, friendly proposal and a Hawthorn sub-committee worked cooperatively with them as the preferred option to explore. The HCC Committee diligently reviewed the pros and cons of the merger proposal before presenting the proposal to the Club’s members. On the 25 March, 2024 at a Special General Meeting of Hawthorn CC members, the Proposal to form the Hawthorn Boroondara Cricket Club was approved. Both Clubs agreed to combine their assets and playing venues to make a stronger united home for community cricket in Hawthorn and the surrounding suburbs. Hawthorn offered 2 quality turf grounds and a successful Women’s team, while Boroondara offered a huge Junior program with a Girls team, a top MacGibbon Shield Synthetic side and a large playing list. Also a fully refurbished ground at Victoria Road Reserve with a new, north-south oriented practice net facility. The benefits were clear to both Clubs and they worked positively together to commence playing as the Hawthorn Boroondara Hawks in season 2024/25. One final HCC Presentation Night At the 77th and final Presentation Night of the Club, Michael Torriero was inducted as the 10th, Hall of Fame member of the Hawthorn Cricket Club. Debuting in 1983/84, Michael scored 10,380 runs over 363 games for the Club, second only to Bert Tilley. Over his career Michael captained the 1XI for 4 seasons, played in 1XI Premierships in 2002/033 and 2005/06 and won the 1XI Batting Average 11 times between 1990/01 and 2006/07. Made a Life Member in 1999, Michael also coached the Club in 2007/08. Quietly spoken, humble and committed, Michael commuted from Geelong for many years to play for Hawthorn. He is 1 of only 3 players to be selected in 3 Teams of the Decade. 3 Life Members in 2024 Also on the night, 3 members of the Vets 1XI team, Josh Crane, Simon Tolstrup and Toby Mullen were made Life Members of Hawthorn CC. All 3 had joined the Club in the 1990s with Josh and Simon playing Juniors cricket with Andrew Tongue. Josh and Toby are dual 1XI Premiership players and Simon played many seasons in lower XIs. Together they have been core players for the returning Vets 1XI since 2021/22. There have been 48 Life Memberships awarded by the Hawthorn Cricket Club in its 77 year history, All Life Members of both Hawthorn and Boroondara CCs will automatically become Life Members of Hawthorn Boroondara CC. Acknowledgements: Special thanks to all the great people who shared their memories and exploits of their teams across these 77 seasons of cricket. In particular, the late Bert Tilley, Graeme Yole and Andrew Tongue, for his countless hours spent digitising the statistics of all players up to 2011/12. Also: Jon Koz, Col Martin and Richard Large for his help with the 2XI - 1979/80 Premiership. The first Hall of Fame inductees at the 50 Years of Cricket celebration in 1997. (Back Row) Tony Tongue, John Harris and Jon Kozeniauskas, (Front Row) Bert Tilley, Peter Harris and John Yole. John & Graeme Yole. Hawthorn CC Hall of Famers - March 2017 (L-R) Tony Tongue, Bert Tilley, Jerry Tsiligiannis, Graeme Yole and Jon Kozeniauskas. At the start of 2006/07 the Club was devastated at the sudden passing of Lee Fedden at the age of just 36. Lee was the 5XI captain for the past 2 seasons, a great clubman with a bawdy, “left field” sense of humour, unconventional tactics, extremely unselfish and had endless energy. ‘Chook’ or ‘Lethal’ as he was known, was an all-rounder/keeper, joining West Hawthorn in 1989/90 and played 117 games from 2XI to 5XI. Lee Fedden at the 2004/05 HCC Presentation Night. Click for History of HW&HCC.pdf Click for WH&HCC's Historic Records & Statistics.pdf

Frequently Asked Questions How To E-Score Cricket A description of how to start scoring a game of Cricket in the PlayHQ Cricket electronic scoring application. Including a video tutorial. HBCC Home Grounds & Training Venues Rathmines Road Reserve - Rathmines Road, Hawthorn East VIC 3123 Victoria Road Reserve - Victoria Road, Hawthorn East, VIC 3123 Deepdene Park - 118-126 Whitehorse Road, Deepdene VIC 3103 St. James Park - Burwood Road & Barton Street, Hawthorn VIC 3122 H.A Smith Reserve - Glenferrie Road & Gardiner Road, Hawthorn VIC 3122 Hawthorn Cricket Centre - 13 Mayston Street, Hawthorn East VIC 3123 HBCC Juniors Inclusion & Selection Policy This policy assists in promoting skills and maturity in young players, consistent with the age-based rules and code of conduct of the Eastern Cricket Association. Emphasis is placed on safety and showing respect towards teammates, officials, volunteers, umpires and opponents

HBCC KEY DATES & EVENTS - Summer 2024/25* Our club holds multiple social events during the year including, Juniors Season Opener, Club Reverse Raffle Night, Women and Girls Trivia Night, Christmas Spotify Break Up, Junior Presentation Night, Senior Presentation Night and Past Player events. *2025/26 dates to be confirmed at the commencement of the season. Junior Presentation - Sunday 23rd March, from 4pm Rathmines Reserve Senior Presentation Night - Friday 2nd May Grace Park Tennis Club Taverners Raffle Prize Draw - Wednesday 12 March, 2025 Ticket sales close on Friday, 28 February 2025 at 11:59 PM BUY TICKETS HERE! 2024/25 Training Schedule Training starts Monday 19th August 2024 - c lick on the schedule below to enlarge. 2024-25 Pre-Season Training Schedule

ECA SENIOR RULES Cricket owes much of its appeal and enjoyment to the fact that it should be played not only according to the Laws, but also within the Spirit of Cricket. The major responsibility for ensuring fair play rests with the captains, but extends to all players, match officials and, especially in junior cricket, teachers, coaches and parents. Respect is central to the Spirit of Cricket. - Respect your captain, team-mates, opponents and the authority of the umpires. - Play hard and play fair. - Accept the umpire’s decision. - Create a positive atmosphere by your own conduct, and encourage others to do likewise. - Show self-discipline, even when things go against you. - Congratulate the opposition on their successes, and enjoy those of your own team. - Thank the officials and your opposition at the end of the match, whatever the result. Cricket is an exciting game that encourages leadership, friendship and teamwork, which brings together people from different nationalities, cultures and religions, especially when played within the Spirit of Cricket. (from mcc.org.uk) ECA Senior Rules Except as varied hereunder, the Laws of Cricket shall apply to all matches played in the senior section of the Eastern Cricket Association Inc. ECA Veterans Rules All players should be aware that we are a social competition and that they are expected to play the game in a true sportsman like manner. Courtesy and respect should be shown at all times to opponents, umpires and spectators. The smooth and enjoyable running of the match is the responsibility of the captains who should ensure that play is conducted within the spirit of the game as well as the Laws of Cricket. ECA Sunday Grade Rules The competition will be played under the Senior Playing Rules of the ECA except as varied hereunder. The Laws of Cricket - MCC The major responsibility for ensuring fair play rests with the captains, but extends to all players, match officials and, especially in junior cricket, teachers, coaches and parents.

JUNIOR POLICIES Hawthorn Boroondara Cricket Club endorses the Victorian Cricket integrity policies and are commited to best practices in child safety and member protection. We are dedicated to promoting the sport of cricket in the local community and providing a safe, fun and inclusive environment for players of all ages and skill levels. HBCC Juniors Inclusion & Selection Policy This policy assists in promoting skills and maturity in young players, consistent with the age-based rules and code of conduct of the Eastern Cricket Association. Emphasis is placed on safety and showing respect towards teammates, officials, volunteers, umpires and opponents 2024 Member Protection Policy Cricket Victoria and all Victorian Cricket Organisations are committed to cricket in Victoria being played in environments that are as safe, welcoming and inclusive as possible. All Victorian Cricket Organisations are required to adopt this Member Protection Policy to protect the safety and wellbeing of all Victorian cricket participants. 2024 Complaints and Resolution Policy, The purpose of this Policy is to ensure that alleged breaches of Cricket Victoria’s Member Protection Policy and Australian Cricket’s Child Safe Policies are managed through an effective, consistent and timely process, which is fair and transparent. Policy for Safeguarding Children and Young People All Children and Young People have the right to feel safe and protected from all forms of Child Abuse, Grooming and Sexual Misconduct. Children and Young People have the right to take part in cricket in a safe, positive, and enjoyable environment. Commitment to Safeguarding Children and Young People Australian Cricket and the Affiliated Associations and Clubs are committed to supporting parents and guardians in protecting and safeguarding Children and Young People. Looking after our Kids Code of Behaviour HBCC endorses Australian Cricket’s Looking After Our Kids Code of Behaviour which details the expectations of acceptable behaviour of all persons who are responsible for the care and wellbeing of Children and Young People in our sport. Cricket Victoria Working With Children Check (WWCC) – Club & Association Guidelines Australian Concussion Guidelines for Youth & Community Sport

HBCC CODES & POLICIES Hawthorn Boroondara Cricket Club endorses the Victorian Cricket integrity policies and are commited to best practices in child safety and member protection. We are dedicated to promoting the sport of cricket in the local community and providing a safe, fun and inclusive environment for players of all ages and skill levels. 2024 Member Protection Policy Cricket Victoria and all Victorian Cricket Organisations are committed to cricket in Victoria being played in environments that are as safe, welcoming and inclusive as possible. All Victorian Cricket Organisations are required to adopt this Member Protection Policy to protect the safety and wellbeing of all Victorian cricket participants. Eastern Cricket Association Inc. Code of Behaviour 2023/24 As part of a player and club’s registration with this association is the requirement that all clubs, their registered players and members adhere to the following Code of Behaviour. 2024 Complaints and Resolution Policy The purpose of this Policy is to ensure that alleged breaches of Cricket Victoria’s Member Protection Policy and Australian Cricket’s Child Safe Policies are managed through an effective, consistent and timely process, which is fair and transparent.ian cricket participants. Policy for Safeguarding Children and Young People All Children and Young People have the right to feel safe and protected from all forms of Child Abuse, Grooming and Sexual Misconduct. Children and Young People have the right to take part in cricket in a safe, positive, and enjoyable environment. Commitment to Safeguarding Children and Young People Australian Cricket and the Affiliated Associations and Clubs are committed to supporting parents and guardians in protecting and safeguarding Children and Young People. Looking after our Kids Code of Behaviour HBCC endorses Australian Cricket’s Looking After Our Kids Code of Behaviour which details the expectations of acceptable behaviour of all persons who are responsible for the care and wellbeing of Children and Young People in our sport. Cricket Victoria Working With Children Check (WWCC) – Club & Association Guidelines Australian Concussion Guidelines for Youth & Community Sport Adverse Weather Policy - Air Quality Procedures Adverse Weather Policy - Conditions for the Use of Covers

CLUB SPONSORS We’d like to say a huge THANK YOU to all our Club Sponsors for your support in sponsoring our club and players in 2024/25 - our first season as the Hawthorn Boroondara Cricket Club. Your collective generosity is what enables our club to survive and prosper giving many young men and women the opportunity to play cricket at a local level and be a part of a community that helps to shape them for a successful future. If you, or your business, would like to get involved in sponsoring the HBCC, we have all sorts of sponsorship opportunities to suit all sorts of sponsors and budgets. Please email Graeme Yole at president@hawthornboroondaracc.com.au - we welcome the opportunity to have a conversation with anyone interested in finding out more. SENIOR WOMEN'S SPONSORS

THE HISTORY OF BOROONDARA CRICKET CLUB 1938 - 2023/24 Boroondara Cricket Club Formed on 26 July 1938 Boroondara Cricket Club 1939/40 Back Row (L>R): F. Howship, J. Howship, J. Delaroy, K. Clayton, Syd Howse, R. Donaghey, Cam Rennie, Ron Harris Front Row (L>R): A. Patterson, H. Coombs, A. Hadler, Geoff Pearton, B. Cowen The Boroondara Cricket Club was formed on the 26th July 1938. One of only four ESCA matting clubs to continue to play throughout the war years, Boroondara won the 2nd Grade matting premiership in season 1940/41. Its home ground was at Highfield Park, where the club played up until 1999, before moving to its present ground at Victoria Road Reserve, Auburn. In 1980 the clubmerged with ESCA club, Riversdale (founded 1966), to form Riversdale-Boroondara. In 1999 the club changed its name and once again became Boroondara. Steady growth since this time now sees the club represented by six senior sides (including a veteran’s team) and twenty junior sides (including two girl’s teams). A Short History of Boroondara Cricket Club Boroondara Cricket Club was formed in 1938 when a few players from Riversdale (formerly Highfield Cricket Club), decided to start a new cricket club at Highfield Park. Syd Howse was elected president, Cam Rennie, captain, and Geoff Pearton, ESCA delegate. During WWII the ground became a ‘searchlight station’, but cricket continued – with barbed wire around the ground as the boundary line. Boroondara was one of only four matting teams to continue playing throughout the War. In 1940/41 two sides were fielded and the club won the 2nd Grade premiership. During this time Mrs Elsie Pearton, mother of Geoff, was a volunteer to Navy House in Port Melbourne where Cerberus was located. Elsie would bring home ‘billeted out’ navy servicemen who wanted to play cricket and they would go with Geoff on Saturdays for a bat and a bowl. In 1951, Boroondara won the Jubilee Premiership after finishing top of the ladder at the end of the home and away season, but lost the grand final. Members who served the club well in its first 20 years include H.C.(Cam) Rennie (first life member, 10 years as president, and four years secretary), Laurie Anderson (seven years president), and Jack McConville (11 years vice president, and two years president). Great players to serve the club were Steve Bee, Geoff Pearton, C. McConchie, W. Kean and Jack Johnston. From 1942 through to 1957, Boroondara remained a one-team club, then with Balwyn IOR folding, a number of players, including Les Johnson, joined Boroondara enabling the club to field two sides for season 1958/59. Les and his family became an integral part of the club; a fine cricketer, Les worked tirelessly on the committee for 17 years including nine years as president. A junior side commenced in 1959/60 and continued until 1972/73, with many fine cricketers progressing to senior ranks, notably Greg Johnson, Paul Hillman, the Blakey brothers, and Col Waller. Well known player and umpiring identity, Jack Sheehan joined Boroondara in the 1943/44 season as a player and committee-man for 20 years, including six as president. In a playing career that spanned seven clubs he took a remarkable 1007 wickets, including seven hat-tricks. On retiring from playing, Jack turned to umpiring first in the Eastern Suburbs, then to district ranks and finally Shield cricket. From the mid 1960’s, in a period of nine seasons, the club played in five A grade grand finals for two premierships. In 1966/67, Geoff Pearton led the first XI to the club’s first A grade premiership. In 1969/70, Greg Johnson led the side in another flag. In the semi-final he scored 109 of the team score of 261 against North Kew; in the grand final against Malvern City, Greg scored 175, to help his side to a convincing win. He finished the season with 933 runs at an average of 84.82. Through the 1960’s and 1970’s great clubmen included Jack Sheehan, Les Johnson, Geoff Pearton, Vic White, Mick Pullen and Geoff West. After finishing last in 1979/80, Boroondara and Riversdale (10th) merged to form Riversdale Boroondara. During the 1980’s the club was well served by Trevor Schwarz, Charles Seager, Ken Goddard, Peter Lilley, Michael Bingley, Jeff Saker, Rick Pickering, Graeme Upham, Ernie Williams, Mark Fimmel, Eddie Miovich, Steve Ford and Dave Wain. In the 1991/92 season Scott Bingley won the Dunstan Medal but very little other success came the club’s way until 1995/96, when a premiership was won in Senior grade matting. Players who performed well during the season included Ken Thomas (who won the Association bowling averages with 33 wickets at 12.82), Brent Thomas, Darren Bingley, Michael Bingley, and captain Scott White, whose century in the grand final was his third for the season. In the 1990’s the club was well served by Danny Ross, Steve Ford, Jeff Saker, Michael Bingley, Steve Jackson, Damian McNamara, Terry Ford, Scott Bingley, Darren Bingley, Oliver Thockloth and Scott White. Players to have represented the Association side in this era included Scott White, Dave Wain, Steve Jackson, Scott Bingley, Nick Tribe, Michael Bingley and Darren Bingley. Since 1980 notable performances include players scoring over 5,000 runs for the club – Michael Bingley, Scott White, Jeff Saker, Tim Kerr and Danny Ross. Bowlers with more than 400 wickets include Steve Ford, Michael Bingley, Terry Ford and Sean Ross. As the 20th century came to a close Boroondara council decided that the old brick clubrooms at Highfield Park should be removed and a new home ground was sought. Council indicated its preference for a merger between Riversdale-Boroondara (three sides) and Kooyong (one side), since the first XI of each club already shared Victoria Road Reserve. After discussions both clubs agreed to accept the proposal and the new club returned to the original name of the Boroondara Cricket Club. For the new century, the most important and progressive step taken by the club was to re-introduce a junior side in 1999/2000. Thanks to the outstanding contribution of Mark Morris, within one decade the junior section of the club had expanded in team numbers and also won six junior premierships, including our first Under 16A flag. In the senior part of the club, five premierships were also achieved; three in the outstanding 2004/05 season. In this season our club had grown to five senior teams and all five played off in grand finals with our top three sides winning in Burt Shield, B and C grade synthetic. Boroondara Cricket Club Players on the eve of an Association record of all 5 teams playing in the 2004/05 Grand Finals. Players who performed well for the firsts this season included Brendan Long, Scott White, Robbie Ross, Kunal Limaye, Terry Ford and David Howsam. Others such as Michael Dumesny, Tim Kerr, Ben Thomson, Peter Bailey and Patrick Kendall had good seasons throughout this decade. By season 2010/11 we had grown to fourteen junior sides from Under 10 to Under 16’s. A number of players had emerged and progressed to playing senior cricket for us, including Robbie Ross, Zac Mowat, Harry Philip, Chris Morris, Matt Poustie, Matthew Silk, Chris Rosengarten, and Seb Scanlon. After fourteen seasons at the helm of our junior program Mark Morris handed over the reins to Rod Croes who continued to also work hard for the growth and success of our club. By season 2016/17 we now had eighteen junior teams, including a girl’s side initially set up by Steve Jackson. In October 2013, a re-union of past and present players was held at our clubrooms to recognize the 75th anniversary of our club. This was a follow up to the 70th anniversary function held in October 2008. As part of the celebrations, teams of the decade were announced for each decade of our existence. In 2013 both senior and junior teams for the first decade of the twenty-first century were announced. These teams are now displayed on pennants in our clubrooms for all to view and recognize our club’s history. Premiership Record The club has won 18 senior premierships and 22 junior flags. The last senior premiership was in MacGibbon Shield in 2016/17, whilst in juniors, the under 12B’s won in 2017/18. Outstanding Players/Performances Many fine players have represented Boroondara with distinction; Geoff Pearton was a legend. He was an outstanding player and served tirelessly as secretary and treasurer for more than 30 years. Geoff was a dashing batsman and a very good left arm slow bowler, playing over 380 games, scoring at least 10,000 runs and taking over 900 wickets. He won the First XI bowling average 13 times and the Association bowling average three times (as well as runner-up three times). Geoff also won the First XI batting average 8 times. Geoff first captained the club at the age of 22, in 1943/44, and last captained it in 1970/71, aged 50. He won the President’s Award for the best player in the matting section twice, in 1956/57 and 1962/63. Greg Johnson played senior cricket with the club at the age of 14 and soon joined Prahran, where he played for two seasons. On returning in 1966, Greg scored 898 runs at 74.8, winning the Association batting averages and helping Boroondara to the A matting premiership. The following season he scored 743 runs, and in 1968/69 he made 647 for the season. In his final season with the club Greg scored 933 runs at 84.8, including 175 in the grand final, helping Boroondara to another premiership. He scored 12 centuries with the club before leaving to continue an outstanding turf career with Deepdene. Paul Hillman was a top all-rounder who won the President’s Award for the best player in the matting section in 1970/71 and its replacement, the Dunstan Medal in 1973/74 and 1974/75. In those three years Paul took 130 wickets and scored 1,319 runs. In 1976 he transferred to Canterbury to play turf cricket where he played in three successive premiership teams. Scott Bingley was awarded the Dunstan Medal in 1991/92, scoring in excess of 2,500 runs and taking over 250 wickets, before injury curtailed his career. He was part of our first XI premiership sides of 1981/82 and 1995/96. Robbie Ross was one of our first junior players since the re-establishment of a junior side in 1999/2000. He had previously played senior cricket for us in 1998 and by season 2003/04 had progressed to our first XI. Robbie was a significant part of our first XI flag in Burt Shield in 2004/05 taking 35 wickets and scoring 285 runs for the season. By 2016/17, when he last played for the club, Robbie had taken 344 wickets and scored almost 3,000 runs. His best bowling figures were 7/14 against Wyclif in 2011/12 and his highest score was 122 in 2012/13, after having scored two other first XI centuries the previous season. He was awarded the Stuart Medal for best player in the MacGibbon Shield in 2011/2012. Zac Mowat was a product of our junior program. He first played senior cricket in the 3rd XI versus Mazenod in 2007/08. In 2009/10 he was part of our 3rd XI premiership side after having scored his first century (109) for the club in the final home and away game, also against Mazenod. Zac scored three more centuries for the club (all in the first XI) and captained our firsts to their two flags in 2015/16 and 2016/17. He was also a very effective bowler taking 179 senior wickets for the club, including 7/18 against Edinburgh in 2015/16. He was awarded the Stuart Medal for the best player in MacGibbon Shield in 2015/16 and again in 2017/18. Jeremy Musso played four seasons at Boroondara from 2014/15 to 2017/18. He was a very effective fast bowler, able to bowl prolonged spells and helped our first XI to two successive premierships in 2015/16 and 2016/17. In 2015/16 he took a club record 74 wickets and also was awarded the Stuart Medal for best player in the MacGibbon Shield. Sean Ross and Graeme Saker hold the all-time club record partnership of 414 runs for the first wicket (1991/92). The best ever bowling performance is by Darren Bingley with 9/11 off 16 overs in Senior grade matting (1996/97). Five players have scored double centuries for the club, Ryan Punton 222, Geoff Lockwood 219, Graeme Saker 215, Scott White 204, all not outs, and Richard Whitfield 201. Association Awards for best player in Highest Grade Matting, Non-Turf or Synthetic Section - President’s Award/ Dunstan Medal/ Stuart Medal Geoff Pearton won two awards, Paul Hillman won three awards, Zac Mowat won two, Scott Bingley, Robbie Ross and Jeremy Musso all won once. - Prepared by President, Michael Bingley & Secretary, Mathew Silk - 2018. Click for History of BCC.pdf Click for BCC Historic Records & Statistics.pdf

HBCC SENIOR FIXTURES & LADDERS Eastern Cricket Association (ECA) Eastern Cricket Association (ECA) - Seniors Summer 2024/25 04 Oct 2024 - 30 Mar 2025 COMPLETE SELECT > Eastern Cricket Association (ECA) - Veterans Summer 2024/25 13 Oct 2024 - 02 Mar 2025 COMPLETE Eastern Cricket Association (ECA) - Kookaburra T20 - 2024-25 Summer 2024/25 03 Dec 2024 - 18 Feb 2025 COMPLETE SELECT > SELECT > Eastern Girls and Women's Cricket (EGWC) Seniors Summer 2024/25 13 Oct 2024 - 30 Mar 2025 COMPLETE SELECT >