It’s been over 20 years since the last Airlie Beach Cricket Club played a game of cricket.
Now, with a newly launched committee and a dedicated funding stream, the club has been re-formed and it is aiming to create better pathways for youngsters to get started in local cricket.
Club President Brett Simpson said current juniors play in Proserpine, but once they surpass the under-15’s level, they are only able to participate socially.
There is no access to higher levels of competition, and this is something Airlie Beach Cricket Club is looking to change.
“The new club will create a pathway for the juniors in the region to step up to the next level and possibly even Queensland level,” said Brett.
Aside from developing young cricket players, the new Airlie Beach Cricket Club is more conveniently located for families living in the Greater Airlie Beach Area.
“Parents don’t have to travel half an hour up the road to bring their kids to training,” explained Brett.
Airlie Beach Cricket Club is currently in talks to have their home ground located at the Whitsunday Sports Park in Jubilee Pocket.
The new cricket team is planning to establish next season and the committee is encouraging local cricketers, including all juniors, women and men to come forward and express their interest.
Geoff Teys, Cricket Australia’s General Manager, Government Relations, Infrastructure and Community Cricket said he is excited to welcome the new team.
"Cricket Australia and Queensland Cricket is thrilled about the establishment of the new Airlie Beach Cricket Club, reflecting the burgeoning interest in cricket across regional Queensland,” he said.
“The rapid growth of Cricket Blast programs, along with a remarkable 30 per cent surge in girls cricket participation statewide, underscores the sport's increasing popularity.
“The success of the Brisbane Heat WBBL side in Mackay has been instrumental in driving this growth, particularly among girls.
“We are genuinely excited about the potential of this new club, its programs, and the infrastructure development it promises.
“The enthusiastic support and engagement from local council and stakeholders further fuel our optimism for the future of cricket in Airlie Beach."
For more information, please contact the ‘Airlie Beach Cricket Club’ Facebook Page.
