Airlie Beach Plays Cricket

 The Airlie Beach Cricket Club (ABCC) is led by a dedicated group of local enthusiasts who have ambitious plans to develop both men and women cricketers. 

The announcement comes at a time when excitement for cricket in the region is palpable.  

ABCC’S Media Spokesperson Stephen Logan said that the response from the community has been pleasing.

“It has been over 20 years since cricket was last played in Airlie Beach,'' he said.

  “The general feelings from the community have been positive. We feel that as we grow the club, we would see the support coming through in numbers.” he said.

Queensland and Brisbane Heat batter, Matthew Renshaw visited the Whitsundays and Mackay region yesterday to help drive Play Cricket Week and is pictured with some of the keen young cricketers from Airlie Beach.

Renshaw's presence is anticipated to have a significant impact on local engagement. 

“Matthew Renshaw’s visit is going to be a huge step into promoting and encouraging children to play cricket, as this would make them feel like they are part of the bigger picture,” Stephen Logan said. 

The timing of the ABCC's formation alongside Play Cricket Week is strategic, aiming to capitalize on the heightened interest in cricket during this period.  

“We are thrilled to align our launch with Play Cricket Week."  

 “This week will be crucial for introducing kids to the sport, and having someone like 
Matt Renshaw visit will definitely help us attract more young players to the game,” said Stephen. 

Historically, the presence of high-profile cricket events like the Women Big Bash League at the Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay has played a significant role in stimulating interest in cricket across the region. 

Stephen Logan says that the club is keen to develop women’s cricket at Airlie Beach, especially after seeing some high-profile women’s cricket in Mackay. 

“Seeing high-class Women’s Big Bash Cricket in Mackay over the past five years has been a huge motivator for local talent, specifically women. It has been instrumental in drawing attention and inspiring young girls to get involved,'' he said.

The excitement around the new club is also reflected in the broader community. Parents are particularly enthusiastic about the opportunity for their children to compete in junior cricket, which could provide a direct pathway to senior levels. 

 “Response from the parents has been overwhelming, because now we can have junior cricket within Airlie Beach area, which will save parents from the long drives to training. 
“ABCC could prove to be their children’s pathway to senior cricket,” Stephen said.