On 16th September 1957 at the Sutherland Scout Hall, in a historically significant one and a half hour meeting the then President of the SSCA, Jim Dransfield, a man with vision and a passion for cricket, chaired proceedings. He instructed those present to form a body under the control of the Senior Association to cater specifically for boys.

Arising from that meeting a Management Committee was formed. It comprised Leo Ticehurst (Chairman), Alan Tredinnick (Secretary), John Woodhouse (Treasurer) and Jack Moodie (Recorder). Present at that meeting and lending enthusiastic support were Sam Astle, Jim Jamieson and Stan Nielson (Committeemen). Leo Ticehurst was an excellent appointee as President having gained great experience as SSCA Secretary from 1947 to 1950.

Those who attended that very first meeting were;- Jim Dransfield, Leo Ticehurst, Allan Tredinnick, John Moodie, John Woodhouse, Sam Astle, Les Keenahan, Jim Jamieson, Stan Nielson, John Blackwell, Ken Hopkins and, Brother Hannigan from the Christian Brothers School at Sutherland.

Jim Dransfield was of great assistance in those early days and as a former President of Miranda RSL was able to have that Club help out. In addition, Brother Hannigan of the Christian Brothers College Sutherland (St. Patrick's School) made available the use of school facilities for meetings.

The Competition commenced in October 1957 using C.S Watson scorebooks. These scorebooks were to remain in use for many years. It was run on Saturday mornings and structured to reflect three age levels. These were Under 16, Under 14 and Under 12. In the Under 12 age group there were two divisions. At the end of the season the winner was determined by a play-off between the winner of Division one, and the winner of Division two. Showing how timely it was to create a separate entity from the SSCA that first season featured 26 teams and 385 registered players, a huge increase from the previous year.

From the start the policy of avoiding play during school holidays was a feature. At the inaugural meeting John Woodhouse had proposed and seconded by Jim Jamieson that it be, "resolved that no competition games be played during school vacation".

The 26 teams came from Boys Town (4), St Patrick's (4), Caringbah Junior Sports Club (3), Evoca (2), Miranda Magpies (2), St Andrews Cronulla (2), and one each from Caringbah Methodists, Engadine Sutherland Methodists, Gymea Bay, Miranda Crusaders, Miranda Methodists, Miranda Rangers, Miranda Rovers, St Johns Sutherland, and Southern United. Talk about ecumenical!

The competition that year being still a "C Grade competition" was run as C1 (Under 16), C2 (Under 14) and C3 (Under12), with C3 being played in two divisions. The winners that first year were, C1 Miranda Crusaders, C2 Evoca and C3 Miranda Magpies (Division 1) and Caringbah Sports (Division 2).

The "C" Grade Committee operated separately as an independent body from the SSCA Executive but at that time still under the control of and reporting back to the senior association. At the conclusion of that first year, the year's events were included in the SSCA Annual Report as a separate entity under the heading, "C" Grade Report.

Thus we have the beginnings of the Junior Association. In his annual report for 1957/58 the Secretary of the SSCA, Doug Bray, had this to say. "The President has often commented on the good work done by members of the "C" Grade committee and men like Leo Ticehurst, Alan Tredinnick, Jack Moodie, John Woodhouse and all team managers deserve the highest praise".

Whilst the credit for the "new" association must go to those named above it must also be recorded that others threw their enthusiasm and love of the game into the ring and helped form the new entity. Driving forces were, - Brothers Hannigan and Bolton (St Patrick's College), Brother Hamilton (Boystown), while Ken Hopkins and Stan Cook (Caringbah Junior Sports Club), John Ladner and Roy Young (Miranda Magpies) and Les Keenahan (Miranda Rovers) all figured prominently.

In the following season (58/59), in lieu of the "C" Grade Competition it became the "Sutherland Shire Boys Cricket Association".

The season saw 32 teams participate with games played on 14 pitches. An Under 10 competition was added but due to a lack of grounds this competition had to be played on Saturday afternoons. Strangely enough, 40 years later due to a lack of grounds similar competitions were forced to play on Sunday mornings, a venture that was to prove controversial and poorly supported.

Community sporting clubs started to develop in earnest and that season saw the emergence of Sylvania Heights and Kirrawee.

Total independence had not been fully established. The Boys' Competition Management Committee (under the title, "Sutherland Shire Boys Cricket Association") was still reporting to the SSCA as witnessed by its annual report. This formed part of the SSCA 12th Annual Report (1958/59) and commenced by addressing itself to, "The Executive Committee and Members of SSCA. - a concise report of the activities of the Boys' Competition". Comments made in the SSCA report that year indicated a slightly strained relationship between the two bodies as the junior body sought to make its own way in the world.

By 1959/60 the SSCA Boys' Competition was going ahead like the proverbial house on fire. Three years into its being and the numbers were increasing steadily. 40 teams by now (up 8 from the previous year) and new clubs joining.

Miranda Magpies was by now the largest club fielding 127 players but Caringbah Sports was the most successful winning three out of the four divisions. Cronulla RSL and Engadine Dragons were the new kids on the block and between them fielded 88 players. Despite continuing ground problems the anticipated growth was occurring.

This growth meant that a decision had to be made to split Saturday mornings into two time slots. These were then utilized by the Under 10 and Under 12 age groups sharing grounds.

More importantly, 59/60 was a watershed year. The administration of the "Boys' Competition" took a huge step forward. Jim Daley led the way and through his leadership the nexus with the seniors' association was broken. Though it must be said that the strained relationship said to occur in the previous year was no more than an aberration, as the lines of communication and teamwork remained open and have done so to this day.

The fledgling was learning to fly! For the first time the Boys' Competition was conducted under its own constitution. Even then it was realized that "alterations will have to be made owing to the extensive area under the control of your committee".

The end of the 59/60 season saw the first comprehensive and independent reporting of activities. The Annual General Meeting of "Sutherland Shire Cricket Association Boys' Competition" was held on 19th July 1960 at the St Patrick's School Hall, President Avenue Sutherland. This was a different date and location to the AGM of the SSCA (Sutherland School of Arts Hall - 18th July). The name by which it chose to be known, "Sutherland Shire Cricket Association Boys Competition" was to remain in place until 1980/81.

The following season (60/61) saw more progress. Teams were up to 47. Due to the numbers, particularly in the 14 and 12 years old age groups, the previous arrangement whereby there were two divisions was changed. A, B and C Grades were introduced, a standard that still applies today. The presentation of annual awards to clubs and players was carried out as a function in its own right, a practice that also continues to today. It was held on the 19th June 1961prior to the AGM at the same venue (St Patrick's Hall). For the first time the Annual Report included a financial statement. The bank balance was £198.16.5. (£50 was spent on a typewriter!!!)

History of the SSJCA

SSCA Boys' Competition - 1961-69

The first five years had seen a lot of hard work undertaken in establishing the Association as a body in its own right. Independence had been established, albeit still limited, a Constitution had been drawn up, numbers had grown beyond expectations and still there was more to be done.

It was not until the 61/62 season that the grading of teams became the responsibility of the Association. Until that time clubs had nominated their own teams' grading. This changed with the Association forming a Grading Committee to make assessments and provide a degree of uniformity.

A highlight of that season was the first success at representative level with a win in the C.S.Watson Shield.

Grounds continued to be a continuing worry with a decision taken to use grounds previously considered unfit for play. Such was the concern that the Association announced that if there was to be no increase in the number of grounds available serious consideration would have to be made to limiting the number of teams that could be registered.

That year saw the death of foundation committee member John Woodhouse. John was the first Treasurer and at the time of his death was the Treasurer. He was a noted hard worker not only for the Association but also for his club, St Patrick's. Family members and St. Patrick's club combined to donate a trophy to the Association to be awarded annually to the best cricketer of the season.

That trophy, known as "The Cricketer of the Year", has been awarded ever since that year and a complete list of winners and the club from which they have come is included within this history.

The first person to receive that award was Ray Tozer (Miranda Magpies) who went on to play grade cricket with St. George at a time when Sutherland had no such opportunity to offer young players looking to develop a cricket career.

Notwithstanding (that) there was no district club then, there were people looking ahead envisioning that the day was not far away when Sutherland would have its own Grade club. The SSCA as the parent body of the Boys' Competition was taking the leading role in pursuing the creation of a District (Grade) Club.

The SSCA in its report for 1961/62 stated, "The Sutherland Port Hacking District Cricket Club is now formed, and is working in an advisory capacity towards gaining grade recognition. Officials are: Mr. L. Johnson M.H.R. Hughes, (Patron), Mr. J.Daly (President), Mr. Kevin Killey, (Secretary), Committee - Messrs. Jim Clissold, J. Wigmore (District Club) J Edwards, R. King, E.Silva (SSCA), J. Moodie, G. Merritt and W. Croucher (Junior Association)."

At that time the ?Boys Competition' had no representation with the NSW Junior Cricket Union and all such matters concerning representative cricket were in the hands of the SSCA. Rex King from the senior association was one of three delegates to the NSW Junior Cricket Union but had been previously SSCA delegate to the "boys' committee" so there was some reliable degree of informed representation.

Nevertheless, with his involvement in the creation of a district club and, enthusiasm for young players, Kevin Killey was given the task of entering a team in the City and Suburban competition. The intention was to give junior players exposure to, and experience of, playing on turf pitches and building up a nucleus of a team to be competitive in the C.S. Watson Shield.

Kevin also managed to get a number of his potential C.S. Watson team to play against senior players in the SSCA Saturday afternoon competition. The team entered by Sutherland School of Arts (one of two teams) won the B2 competition.

Another first that season was to form an Umpires' Association. It was called the "S.S.C.A. Boys Competition Umpires Association". It had no relationship to the Sutherland Shire Cricket Umpires Association (SSCUA) which came later.

It arose from a recognised need that Saturday morning umpiring standards were variable and lacking in consistency. Allan Fallins of the NSW Cricket Umpires Association was a great help in providing coaching sessions and examinations to ensure an appropriate standard was achieved. Allan and other umpires gave lectures and successful students received accreditation as members of the Umpires Association.

Allan was gracious enough to donate a trophy which in its first year was awarded to a player from Boystown 16A team as a special trophy. For many years it was awarded in the 12A age group, but with the passing of time it became incorporated in the Ted Wykes Trophy ("Ted Wykes Trophy Incorp. Allan Fallins Shield.").

A novel highlight of the 1962/63 season and one hard to beat came about when through the good graces of Jack Pender, a local B.P. (petroleum) agent, and Esso Australia, the star West Indian fast bowler Wes Hall paid a visit to Miranda to pass on some points on how to play the game.

There were twenty two new teams that year. Nine of them were entered by De La Salle Caringbah. Considering this was only the second year for that club it was an amazing increase from one team entered in its first season. The 28% overall increase in numbers further complicated the already worrying grounds problem, and the season was almost a disaster when the Council withdrew fourteen grounds in one hit to effect repairs. Only the assistance of the Shire President and some of his councillors averted a worst case scenario.

There were indications that the umpiring school lectures were bearing fruit as the scorebooks revealed some interesting and fascinating forms of dismissal not normally found in a season. Some of the classics included, hit the ball twice, obstructing the field, hit wicket, and handling the ball. These are uncommon but, creative! An intriguing item reported was that of one player managing to score 7 runs off one ball! Keep in mind there is no provision to hit a six and there were no 5 run penalties in those days. How does one account for 7 runs? Knowledgeable readers will come up with an answer! That season the Umpires' school turned out 11 graduates which was rewarding and it indicated that it was an activity worth pursuing.

Came 1963/64 and John (Jack) Moodie who started as the Recorder/Publicity Officer back in September '57 retired due to ill health. Earlier he had held the position of Secretary for Evoca Cricket Club, a foundation club, and in 55/56 he was Assistant Secretary to the SSCA. His major contribution for which he must always be remembered is the work he put in as the Boys' Competition Secretary from 1958 to 1963. John's good work was to continue under the hand of Mort Edson who stepped up as Secretary for the next 6 years.

John was awarded a well deserved Life Membership and in so doing became the first person to be so honoured. To commemorate this honour a trophy was established to be awarded annually to the best cricketer in the Under 14 age group (B Grade). The "John Moodie Memorial Shield" continues to be awarded today.

The same year saw the Boys' Competition President Jim Daly awarded Life Membership of the NSW Umpires Association at the golden anniversary of the NSW Cricket Umpires Association. It is a measure of the man's love for the game that he found the time and commitment to foster the young Sutherland association yet at the same time carry out a continuing role in umpiring.

At a more basic level grounds and pitches continued to be a problem. There were just not enough pitches and, of those that were, many were badly in need of repair. As many games as possible were used playing on mats but often younger players and lower grades had to go without. This was a continuing problem and it was said that, "matting is a vital issue and we will not be satisfied until every boy playing in the competition has the benefit of it". The SSCA did all it could to assist and were ?the keepers of the mats'. To help out, the Junior Association gave notice to clubs that it was planning to introduce a registration fee to help the SSCA in the cost of buying and repairing mats.

Barry Davison (Miranda Magpies) was selected as Cricketer of the Year and in addition captained the C.S. Watson Shield Team.

Twenty more people acquired their umpiring credentials following a six weeks course and this brought to thirty the number of qualified adjudicators.

1964/65 was a record year in every way. A record number of clubs (16) registered 114 teams and 1594 players. Record finances and the largest representative season to then. This led to the introduction of two new grades, one being 10C and the other 12D. Playing times for the 16A and B, 14A and B, and 12A teams were increased to three hours. To cope with the increased numbers and to improve registration practices a Team Nomination Form was introduced.

A charge of two shillings (twenty cents) was levied on a per player basis to offset the ever increasing cost of mat purchases and repairs. This raised £130 ($260) which was passed on to the SSCA.

Meetings still continued to be held at St Patrick's school rooms but other venues such as Miranda RSL were used. A cabaret was held at the Miranda RSL whilst two social functions were held at the Sutherland Bowling Club. The first was a "Cricketers' Day" which raised almost £100. The day was considered a success although it must be mentioned that heavy rain washed out any chance of lawn bowls. The same venue was used to host the St George Executive in what was the annual social get together of the two Associations. The cabaret at Miranda was primarily intended to create "a harmonious and social atmosphere amongst the clubs".

Cricketer of the Year was Barry McManus (Jnr) son of the Engadine Dragons founder and the first player from that club to be so honoured.

The first decade was concluded in the 1965/66 season with the publication of the 10th Annual Report. Whilst team numbers were down from the previous record year they were still reasonable. The major competition, the 16As, was a concern. It was reduced for the first time to a six team competition due to what was seen as a poor standard that could not justify a normal eight team competition.

On the plus side, every team played on mats and the registration fee component for mats raised £180 ($360). This was passed on to the SSCA. More help was required to officiate at matches and a plea went out: - "dedicated parents to manage teams are also hard to obtain."

The season saw the introduction of an award for "Club Championship". It was an annual trophy donated by Mr. Laurie Pender, proprietor of the Jannali B.P. Service Station and B.P. Australia. To be considered, a club had to field no less than three teams and the winner was calculated using the quotient system, runs scored divided by wickets lost. Jannali was the first winner of this award. This trophy lasted until the end of the 77/78 season. In 78/79 it was replaced by the "Bertshell Trophy" which continues to this day to be presented as the "Club Championship" award.

A crisis of sorts arose during the season with a disagreement between the 'Boys' Competition' and the new Sutherland District Cricket Club, the 'Grade Club'. Several players of the 'Boys Competition' played for the District Club in lower grades. One day games starting at 10.00am saw players being absent from their club teams to fill their Grade commitments. This naturally affected the performance of club teams and some 16 A teams were seriously handicapped at such times.

To add to the problem, "due to abnormal circumstance, the Watson Shield fixture against Manly conflicted with a Grade fixture and we were deprived of six leading players due to grade commitments. We consider that any chance of winning this coveted trophy vanished with Grade Club requirements, as our opponents won the Shield." The insistence by the Grade Club that they have preference over all else in determining priorities was not well received and caused some angst within the Boys' Competition management.

The foregoing incident was not the only matter of concern relating to representative cricket. Comment was passed about the relationship between the SSCA Boys' Competition and the NSW Junior Union. It was not just the Sutherland junior cricket body questioning a long standing arrangement but others as well. The practice for many years was for, in any association, the senior body to represent the "area".

In the case of Sutherland, the SSCA was the affiliated body and it, and it only, had access to the NSWJCU. This meant that matters affecting all the inter-district competitions involving the junior association had to be referred to the SSCA for onward passage to the Junior Cricket Union. In this day and age such a practice would seem clumsy to say the least, but forty years ago that was the arrangement. This concern was passed on to the SSCA with a view to promoting the notion of direct affiliation. Eventually, in time, direct affiliation was granted.

Life Membership was awarded to three officials that year. At a social cabaret held at Miranda Bowling Club honours were paid to Jim Daly, Wal Croucher, and Rex King.

The annual presentation of season's honours was held on Saturday 2nd July 1966 at a new venue. The St Patrick's School Hall used since the first days was no longer large enough. The Port Hacking High School Auditorium had a capacity attendance on this occasion justifying the change of venue.

Cricketer of the Year was Glen Bailey, - Jannali Junior Cricket Club.

Ten years had been completed. As can be seen there had been a range of problems to be tackled and resolved. Overall progress was being made and the game's roots firmly entrenched.

The next ten years were to see much of the same. The 66/67 season started no differently than to any other with grounds causing concerns. "Ground problems remain our biggest obstacle" reported Mort Edson as Secretary.

It was necessary to play a full round on a Sunday to cater for needs and though this was due partly to grounds being a problem it was also triggered by the need to meet the impost of an early Easter. This was the first time that a full round had had to be played in this fashion.

Anzac Oval at Engadine was considered not fit to be played on whilst the ground at Alexander Avenue Taren Point which provided two pitches and only introduced in 65/66 was sold to private enterprise.

While the "Club Championship" had been introduced in 65/66, (The Jack Pender Trophy) this year saw a more definitive system introduced to determine the winning club. That system which still exists in principle today consisted of a calculation based on the following:

• A grade teams - winning points multiplied by 5.
• B grade teams - winning points multiplied by 3.
• C grade teams - winning points multiplied by 2.
• D grade teams -winning points multiplied by 1.

Aggregate points then divided by the number of teams plus one.

It was about this time that the Sutherland Shire Cricket Umpires Association (SSCUA) was formed. The Umpires' classes and earlier efforts to form an association in 61/62 had been successful to a point but had not progressed. The first qualified umpires in 61/62 under the tutelage of Allan Fallins were accredited under the umbrella of the NSW Cricket Umpires Association. Wally Croucher who completed yet another season as Recorder was elected that year as Secretary of the Umpires Association. By 66/67 he had become President of that organisation. He was made a Life Member of the SSJCA in 66/67 and subsequently received a similar honour for services to umpiring. He had also played a leading role in the introductory work leading to the creation of the Sutherland Shire District Club.

There was a greater degree of rapport that year between the Grade Club and the Junior Association. Gone was the disharmony of the previous year though the matter of priorities was to raise its head again from time to time. The Grade Club ran a six weeks coaching course attended by some 36 young players. The course covered all phases of the game - batting, bowling, fielding, cricket ethics and umpiring. Those participating received a copy of the NSW Cricket Coaching manual and received guidance from such Grade players as, Ted Cotton, Merv Black, Bryan Hazell, Jack Slattery, Jack Erickson, Eric Lukeman, Mike Coleman, Ken Hatherly, Reg Hobden, Norm O'Neill (of Australian Test Cricket fame), Max Silva, Max McLeay, Dave Gazzard and many others. Test Umpire Ted Wykes also assisted and the scheme was considered an outstanding success. Credit for its establishment and preparation was directed to the Grade Club's Coaching Controller, Dave Phillips.

It is interesting to note that two matters of a recurring nature, a bane to all administrators, were worthy of noting that year. Mort Edson, never one to shirk his responsibilities, drew attention to a number of forfeit decisions which appeared to coincide with the ever occurring clash between time scales of summer and winter sports, saying, "Clubs should honour their obligations in this regard particularly parents who have boys in both summer and winter sports. Any competition fixture is more important than a practice match in any code, whether summer or winter."

And on the subject of boys wearing representative caps in club matches, a practice frowned upon to say the least, "A practice which is becoming more prevalent is for lads to wear their representative caps in club matches. This must cease and should be immediately corrected by all managers/coaches. The caps are applicable to matches only when the player is representing the Association. Take pride in your club and wear its colours when participating in competition fixtures. Internationals do it, so why shouldn't you?"

Highlights of 67/68 were the winning of the Moore Shield and runners up in the Foster Shield.

On the local front, progress was seen to be being made with the problems of grounds, Mort Edson reported that, "Sutherland Shire Council showed greater understanding towards our needs than ever before". Compliments were paid to the Chairman of the Parks and Playgrounds Committee (Councillor Kevin Skinner) and the Shire Engineer, Bill Wood.

Concerns continued for the cost of matting and though sharing the cost 50/50 with the SSCA this was an ever increasing source of concern with insufficient care being taken by some users in caring for these essential items.

The determination of priorities in deciding which takes precedence arose once again between the desires of the Boys' Competition Management to field the strongest representative teams and the Grade Club' s requirements. The Grade Club insisted that it had priority. It was recorded that year as follows:

"We consider the Watson Shield standard and status to a lad is more, or just as important, as Shire cricket and we feel we have been unjustly treated in these matters. Efforts by us to have a meeting of the two executive bodies to attempt a better understanding were refused by the District Club, and a meeting originally agreed upon was subsequently cancelled by the same district committee. With the sanction of senior members of the executive committee of the S.S.C. Association, we had no alternative than to place our thoughts before the N.S.W. Junior union. The N.S.W. Junior Union Executive have met us and there appears little alternative than to recommend that once our players transfer to Grade Cricket they become ineligible to play in our competition."

It is evident that in 1968 there was pretty strong feeling on the above subject. Subsequently a more temperate view was found and though the problem was to come to the forefront from time to time over the years a more balanced approach was found to permit a measure of satisfaction all round. The year ended with the AGM moving from St Patrick's school hall after 10 years to the Sutherland United Services Club (SUSC).

Jim Daly retired at the end of 68/69 as President after 10 years, having made a substantial contribution to the development of boys' cricket. Hard working Secretary Mort Edson retired as well. Thus at the start of the following season 69/70, Snow Davies and Ron Hilditch took up two of the most demanding roles in the stewardship of the association.

The year saw a drop in playing numbers but it also saw the introduction of St. John Bosco as a new club when Sister Jeanette entered two teams from the convent.

Gordon Thomson and Mort Edson were awarded Life Membership in recognition of their long services.

An interesting feature of the year was an initiative taken by Bryan Hazell (President SDCC). He called a meeting of the three cricket bodies to discuss ways and means of improving the "Cricket Image" within the Shire. The meeting was deemed a success and it was hoped it would be the first of many such mutual discussions.

1969/70 saw a step forward with the establishment of a new position of Competition Secretary, a position which over the years has played a major part in the development and progress of cricket competition for juniors within the Shire. The first person to take on this role was Fred Malbon who combined it with his role of Recorder. Fred could never be accused of shirking. On top of the heavy workload arising from the above activities he also found time to manage a team on Saturday mornings and to top it off he managed the Moore Shield Team as well.

For the first time representative teams won the Shell Shield.

1970/71 saw further progress in a number of fields. Concerned with the drain on funds arising from increasing costs associated with the provision of mats, moves were initiated to find an alternative. After allowing for representative team costs, mats were the second greatest financial outlay passing the $500 mark.

For the first time the Association compiled a small booklet setting out its rules and these were issued to all clubs.

A "coach the coaches" night was held on 5th November at the Gymea Community Hall where Warren Saunders (St. George first Grade Captain) and Brian Taber (NSW Captain and Coach), assisted by SDCC President Bryan Hazell conducted an informative session.

A major step forward in finding a home for cricket in the Shire took place when several meetings were held involving all cricket bodies. It was decided to go ahead with building a cricket administration centre at the Caringbah Oval for use by the cricket bodies for meetings and functions.

History of the SSJCA

SSCA Boys' Competition - 1970-80

The period through to 1980 saw a continuation of aspects referred to previously. There were ongoing problems with mats, focus on the construction of a Cricket Administration Centre, finding ways and means of improving coaching, just to mention basic concerns.

This was on top of the "normal" business of conducting a competition every Saturday morning plus a full representative season. Though the representative season in itself is short, it did then, as it does now, take up a great deal of time and effort in planning, selecting, coaching and clothing players. The new decade commenced with the energetic Snow Davies as President, Ken Prendergast and Frank Pattinson as Vice Presidents and Ron Hilditch as Secretary. Fred Malbon continued to carry out the dual roles of Recorder and Competition Secretary.

For the 71/72 season Caringbah Sports Cricket Club took an initiative and published in the local newspapers an advertisement depicting State Captain John Benaud playing a shot and inviting all young cricket minded lads to join a local club. The advertisement was sponsored by the Mobil Oil Company, and the successful idea was the work of Ken Leech of Caringbah Sports. This was the first occasion that such an advertisement was used to bring to public notice through the press the existence of organized cricket for boys.

The 15th Annual General Meeting (12th July 1971) saw a switch in venue from the Sutherland United Services Club where it had been held for the previous three years to the Gymea Community Hall. This was an interim move for the following year and thereafter the Annual General Meeting was conducted at the Cricket Administration Centre, Breen Park, Caringbah.

Whilst the AGM was conducted for the first time at the Administration Centre it was far from finished. 1971 saw meetings conducted in the building but there was a dearth of funds needed to complete the finishing touches. Nevertheless, Shire cricket did at last have its own headquarters.

Representations to the NSW Junior Cricket Union for direct affiliation had been rejected in70/71 but in 71/72 Competition Secretary Fred Malbon was appointed a delegate to that body and thus, the Boys' Competition for the first time had direct access on all matters. However, whether this was due to concurrence from the NSWJCU or cooperation from the SSCA is not clear. Subsequent notes indicate that it is more likely to have been the latter not withstanding that both Sutherland and St. George had been pressing for direct junior affiliation for some time.

That year saw the passing of Life Member Jim Daly, the first President of the Boys' Competition and one of the most respected men to ever be involved in cricket. In his time Jim had been a foundation member of the Sutherland District (Grade) Cricket Club, a Life Member of the NSW Cricket Umpires' Association, a delegate to the Sutherland Shire Council's Sports Advisory Council, and a delegate on behalf of Caringbah Sports Club. His outstanding services to sport were recognized by Sutherland Shire Council in 1965 when he was made "Sportsman of the Year". Incidentally, he even found time to umpire Sheffield Shield games and a NSW versus England match. He was that sort of bloke!

The next few years saw a continuation of activities with mats still causing problems due to cost, wear and tear, and even alleged stealing. As the cost of new mats had doubled, by this time it was a major source of concern and a major expenditure. Ways of alleviating this problem were being considered but a solution was soon to hand.

The 75/76 season saw a bold step taken by the administrators. Mats were abandoned. Ken Prendergast in his first year as President watched over the introduction of plastic balls. The reasons for this step were two fold. As pointed out mats were presenting a major financial headache and added to this was the cost of leather balls. It was recommended that the Shire Council paint pitches green to simulate grass. Lance Handley played a large part in organizing that this job was done.

Not all clubs were happy with this innovation. Lance Handley chaired a sub-committee that met in March '76 to review reports from the clubs on the merits of plastic balls and concrete wickets against matting and leather balls. There ensued healthy debate but those in favour of the new idea won the day. Engadine Dragons' delegates spoke in support of retaining mats and leather balls for 16A and 14A teams but this proposal was rejected. As a side note to that season, the first using plastic balls, not one adverse comment was to be found in the end of season club reports.

The following season 76/77 seemed to introduce a new, if unwelcome, initiative. The Executive, frustrated at the failure of club delegates to attend the regular meetings held at the Cricket Administration Centre, introduced the practice of fining clubs for non-attendance. This was not a new failing. All through the years, Executives from time to time had complained of this problem. Such meetings were the main means of communicating with clubs and passing on information.

1977/78 saw the year off to a flyer; record registrations, a massive 152 teams and over 2000 players. This represented an increase of 39 teams and 600 boys. Fortunately, the weather stayed fine for the season and the only problems with grounds were those occasions when hoses were left on overnight, sometimes by person or persons unknown, and fields were unplayable. Illawong-Menai joined the Association that year entering one team which played in the 10C competition. Showing how difficult it is to predict numbers, the following season saw a reduction in team numbers, the record 152 reducing to a more manageable 121. It also saw the emergence of Cronulla Seagulls as a new club.

1979/80 was a most important year. Moves were made that year to establish the Boys' Competition identity as a separate organisation no longer to be a subset of the SSCA. Direct affiliation with the NSW Junior Union was established.

At the Annual General Meeting held on 8 July 1979 it was announced, "In the past the "Boys' Competition" had been under the control of the S.S.C.A. but recently your Executive decided on and implemented moves that enabled this Association to become an organisation under its own right and now we have full affiliation with the N.S.W.J.C.U." Thanks were given to the SSCA for its guidance, encouragement and cooperation over the years and President Don Clark spoke enthusiastically of the juniors joining with the seniors' association and the Grade Club in "fostering better cricket for the youth of the Shire; that is your children".

This was a moment in history. No longer the "SSCA Boys' Competition" but the Sutherland Shire Junior Cricket Association.

It had taken twenty two years to give the SSJCA its own identity.

In 1980 a new delegate appeared on the scene. There have been many delegates over the years, literally hundreds, but every now and again one stands out. This history would not be complete without some reference to one of the characters who stood out for a short time until without warning he was called to a better place.

In 80/81 Como sent forward a new delegate, Cliff Paddy. He was the sort of bloke who had a natural gift for lightening up a session, for turning gloom into laughter. In 83/84 he put up his hand to become a recorder, then to serve on the Trophy Committee. Never one to shirk work Cliff was almost too good to be true. But life always has its uncertainties and things happen when you least expect. Cliff passed away suddenly in May '84 at the age of 39 years 10 months.

There have been others like Clifford John Paddy and his efforts can only serve to inspire more to follow.

History of the SSJCA

SSJCA - 1981-2006

The next period of 25 years has proven to be no less intense than the first. Times change and requirements vary. To respond to those requirements the Association has constantly had to adjust, respond and anticipate what is necessary to provide cricket for the youth of the Shire.

This period of time was to see the face of cricket change. Traditional cricket, whilst still around and still the backbone of the game, is today supported by an array of other measures. Cricket terms such as Tabloid, 'Have a go', Kanga, Introductory, Modified, Super 8, were not even dreamt of fifty years ago. Life was simpler.

In many aspects there have been many changes in these twenty five years yet in many other ways there has been little change. Concerns expressed by the likes of Mort Edson and others still exist today as will be seen as the second twenty five years history unfolds.

1981 and numbers were looking good with the future even more promising as almost half the numbers of new players (257 out of 529) were in the under 10 age group.

Progress was being made on the Cricket Administration Centre and the Trustees, Alan Crammond (Grade Club), Vince Ridge (SSCA) and Don Clark (SSJCA) expressed satisfaction with their efforts. Sutherland Shire Council painted the exterior and volunteers took care of the inside. To add to their efforts, Australian Refining Pty Ltd. (Caltex) donated $500 towards the cost of constructing and installing an Honour Board. That Honour Board still exists today.

Barry Davison carried out a review of Tabloid Cricket which had been introduced in 79/80 to provide an alternative to standard cricket for players in the lowest age group. The review resulted in an extension of the average cricket sections with games now to be played over two days and players able to bat for 6 overs as a pair as against three overs under the previous system.

A highlight of the season for St. Patrick's Club was that after 25 years of trying it won the Club Championship for the first time. This was a fine effort and well deserved for a club that had been there from day one.

The following year saw Ken Whatley step up as President. Who was to know that Ken was to carry out this responsibility for a record fifteen years? 1982 was the Silver Anniversary year and a special edition of the Annual Report was compiled to mark the "Silver Jubilee". Credit for that effort of collating and gaining sponsorship rested with Brian Quinn, Bill Lawler, Geoff Marshall and Lindsay Grimble.

This year also saw the introduction of rotating cricket, a new way of playing designed to increase player involvement. Jim Lynch deserves the credit for this innovation and the basic system introduced by Jim still exists to this day. The success of rotating cricket is best summed up by repeating here what Jim stated in the Annual Report that year.

"This year new rules applied to D and E grades. It was rotating batting order and limited overs for bowlers. It was introduced to give every boy a fair go. I personally thought it was very good but some clubs are against it, but I feel it is only the managers who are against it. As I have spoken to a lot of parents and they have all said it was the best thing that has happened as every boy had a chance to enjoy cricket. It has a few faults but these can be fixed."

Caringbah Sports, another foundation member, broke its duck by winning the Club Championship for the first time. Subsequently the club was to go on and set a record winning eight consecutive championships from 1991 to1999 an effort which will surely stand the test of time.

Following on from Barry Davison's review of tabloid cricket that form of the game received a name change and became "Introductory Cricket".

Reporting on it that year, Tony Gleeson had this to say;

"Introductory Cricket is restricted to the under 10C and D grade boys playing their first year of competitive cricket. The original purpose for this scheme was to introduce boys to the game by a series of Tabloid Cricket skills exercises, coupled with average cricket and traditional cricket competition. The scheme has been gradually refined over the years, with modified rules and equipment to suit boys of this size and age group. For instance, 12 boys per team, a smaller ball, shorter length of pitch, restricted overs and rotating batting order. All of which go towards making the task of getting used to the game a lot easier and more enjoyable for the boys."

At the other end of the scale, the Association saw a St. Patrick's cricketer, Kevin Tuite, selected to play for the NSW Under 16 team in Adelaide at the Australian carnival. Kevin was the first boy to achieve success at this level. It will be no surprise therefore to read here that Kevin, that year, received the highest SSJCA Award by being named Cricketer of the Year.

The 83/84 season saw a major development, the introduction of synthetic wickets. This was the answer to playing on mats and green painted concrete. Synthetic wickets have proved to be the next best thing to playing on turf. Though it may be argued they favour batsmen, they are more durable and provide a consistency that is hard to beat. The first teams to use the new surface were the 16A and 12A competitions. One of the advantages of synthetic pitches was the re-introduction of genuine (leather) cricket balls. Introducing synthetic pitches required a substantial outlay of funds. Experience and time confirmed subsequently that the decision taken to pursue this path was a good investment for junior cricket. The financial statement for the year 81/82 showed an expenditure of $925 as part cost towards what would have been the cost of installing such wickets. The 1982 payment was followed up the next year with a further $4376.20 while in 83/84 another $776.48 was expended. (See "Grounds - Lifeblood of Cricket").

The next step forward in developing junior cricket was the introduction on a trial basis of official umpires. Allied to this was the extension of playing times for 'senior' teams to four hours. These both took place in 87/88. The Sutherland Shire Cricket Umpires' Association provided umpires for a number of 16A and 14A games. It was also a year where the Grade Club won the Poidevin-Gray Shield (Under 21) and all team members were former SSJCA players.

Ray Brennan as Treasurer made a valid comment in his annual report:

"It became clear during 1987/88 that three items of expense impacted heavily on our financial position viz: - costs of representative cricket, -cleaning of synthetic wickets, - provision of umpires for four hour games. It is the Association's aim to provide cricket to all boys at the lowest cost while at the same time maintaining the highest standards. Provision of synthetic wickets and official umpires are seen as essential elements of this scenario. All fees will be reviewed prior to next season and some upward revision may be necessary. During the season Association fees were boosted by sizeable amounts from fines and protest fees. While the income is useful it is not our desire to see a continuation".

His comment on fines has always been the view expressed by Association Management throughout the years and it came about during a period when Recorders were finding that their work was being made more difficult through poor attention to details and a lack of accuracy in reporting.

In 1990 Don Masters retired after ten years of service as Secretary. He had been a tower of strength for all those years and it was remarked that his shoes would be hard to fill. Alan Craston the incoming Secretary summed it up saying, when referring to Don, "…a contribution so far and above the call of duty that it deserves medals with bars, presented with trumpet fanfares". It also saw the two separate clubs of Como and Jannali amalgamate their resources to become Como Jannali.

1991 saw for the first time the introduction of finals as distinct from "first past the post" competitions. Previously there had been some play-offs to determine competition winners but this year saw all teams involved. The Minor Premier (number one team) played the number two team and where two teams were equally placed in the competition ladder the quotient system was retained to determine the teams to occupy the first two places.

The 91/92 Annual Report revealed that the Association had progressed to the point of becoming an incorporated body with a constitution that conformed to the provisions of the NSW Associations Incorporation Act 1984. This established the Association as a legal entity and led to the Association Secretary becoming the nominated 'Public Officer'.

Indicative of rising costs were the amounts paid out for Insurance and Umpiring fees. Both outlays were in excess of $1700 and again, Ray Brennan, Treasurer, was uttering words of thanks directed to Bill Lawler. Sponsorship income for the year amounted to $3,450 thanks to Bill. The next year it was even more, $7,500. This effort can be seen in perspective when measured against the outlay that year for Representative cricket, an amount in excess of $8,600. The cost of conducting cricket in the Shire was mounting steadily. From an $800 operation in 1960, to a season cost of $27,000 thirty years later.

A novel and successful form of fundraising to offset costs was brought about by gaining sponsorship from Buttercup Bakeries. The company paid out ten cents for each bread wrapper collected by players. From the amount of bread wrappers collected that season SSJCA received from the promotion, $2235. One might say money for bread!

Buttercup Bakeries was the first sponsor of the inter-club competition to determine the winner of the Bertshell Trophy. The season also saw changes to the competition rules leading to the introduction of an over limited game instead of one limited by time. This change brought in the practice of limiting the number of rounds per season to ten. Consequently, it meant a new approach to setting records and the "old" records were, so to speak, ruled off, and from thence a new set of records introduced.

For two seasons, 91/92 and 92/93 the Annual Report included match details of finals which was an innovative measure not since repeated.

An Under 8 age group was introduced in 92/93 resulting in three sides and this increased numbers a little. This competition was run in conjunction with two sides from Ramsgate RSL so it was an early version of a joint venture. The three sides came from Sylvania, Caringbah Sports and, Miranda. It was felt that clubs could have made a better effort to get involved in this pilot scheme.

That season saw Illawong Menai emerge as the largest club in the Shire fielding 14 teams. This was by no means the largest ever, for previously Sylvania Heights had entered 20 teams in the two seasons spanning 83/85. However, as a measure of growth in the western part of the Shire and the growth in cricket interest, it should be noted that for the past decade Illawong (now Illawong Menai) has been the largest club. In 1999/2000 it entered a record 27 teams.

1993/94 saw two new initiatives. At the start of the season a promotion was conducted at Westfields Miranda and this exposure brought about an increase in player registrations for the season. It resulted in an additional 34 teams for the year and a mammoth 15 teams playing in the under 8 competition which had to be split into two divisions to accommodate the numbers. At the end of the season teams played semi-finals, then a final. Following an end of season review the following year saw this process abolished and the competition returned to 10 rounds plus a final

Aquinas College, now known as Aquinas Comets, joined the Association in 95/96 and with the addition of this club, the club numbers have remained much the same for the past ten years. (See "Clubs make the Association").

That year was to be the final year for Ken Whatley as President. He had carried out this task since 1982 and guided the Association throughout many a challenge in his 14 years at the helm. The year was not an easy one. The need to assert the Association's long standing policies on Representative Cricket selections caused much serious debate and angst but the Association stood firm. Ken's leadership throughout this difficult period and in the introduction of synthetic wickets provided the Association with a consistent and firm yet thoughtful hand.

Peter Friend became President in 1995 and continued on where Ken had left off. The next few years were to present a raft of challenges. Notwithstanding, Peter's first year as President saw the establishment of three centres of "Have-a-go" cricket for Under 8 players. These centres were at Miranda, Heathcote and Bangor and there were many encouraging comments made by parents and players which promised much for the following year.

The programs were run again the following year with similar success and this time they were aided by a winter promotion at Westfields Miranda. This promotion was conducted with the assistance of the NSW Cricket Association (now Cricket NSW) and these programs were proving to be more than useful in building up cricket interest from parents of 'little kids'.

The Association found time to respond to a request from the NSW JCU. The Union undertaking a review of its own activities sought the views of Sutherland and, the Association led by Peter Friend submitted a professional assessment of the NSWJCU Development Plan which was received with much appreciation for the quality and value of the input provided.

The season saw for the first time restrictions placed on the number of overs that a pace bowler could deliver. These restrictions were introduced by the Association in compliance with standards laid down from Cricket NSW and related to health and safety measures, measures that these days may be classified as Occupational Health and Safety. They were not well received by all and there were many instances in the first year or two of the rules being breached. Eventually they came to be accepted but not without a lot of effort, communication and education by the Association's management team.

Another move towards providing a safe environment for young players was the introduction in 1998 of "Coaching Accreditation". Again, this did not please everyone but in the ensuing years it has become accepted practice and has been instrumental in improving player standards. Barry Davison, a former grade player, provided enormous help in devising and running appropriate courses to permit Club Coaches to get their elementary and subsequently, Level 1 accreditation.

Cricket NSW was forecasting a 50% increase in playing numbers over the forthcoming five year period and conscious of this and having concerns regarding sufficient adequate grounds, the Association expressed the view that there was a challenge to be faced in accommodating such growth. Within a year or two this was to manifest itself in what was to become probably the greatest challenge faced by the Management Committee in its long history.

The year also saw a major revision of the Management structure (See "Those Who Serve") to place the Association on a more accountable business like basis and focus on task responsibilities.

The following season saw the new Lucas Heights Sports Complex come on line as Council sought to provide better sporting facilities in the western end of the Shire. The Association assisted Council with input on cricket requirements and went on to submit a detailed report and analysis on the state of grounds throughout the Shire.

In support of Cricket NSW the Management Committee agreed to help with a pilot scheme to identify work experience opportunities as part of a larger picture to match young people's ambitions, community interests and cricket within their geographical area. The year also saw the development of a "Sunsmart" policy acknowledging the need to take measures to minimize the occurrence of skin cancers.

To assist clubs a program of visits was instituted whereby members of the Management Committee visited clubs to exchange views, provide information, and give assistance. One initiative was to create a publication called "Wickets" to explain rules in as simple a format as possible so that clubs would have material they could pass on to coaches and managers. Like most new ventures it received a mixed reception.

A joint venture exercise between the Association, Engadine Dragons Cricket Club and Engadine West Public School saw a new cricket ground constructed within the school grounds. This has become an ideal ground for conducting matches for Under 10 and Under 8 players.

The Have-a-go program for boys and girls from as young as four years of age and up to the age of nine continued to be well supported on Friday nights with centres at Sylvania and Illawong. The Illawong centre was run jointly by the Illawong Menai and Aquinas clubs and drew big numbers.

As the decade neared its end and the 21st century loomed the Association entered the computer age. Once more Cricket NSW looking to move forward introduced a new concept. The Association ran with this idea, the Isport Internet site and sought to support it. Clubs were encouraged to get behind this new venture and some did, some didn't. It was early days and though not entirely successful was a move in the right direction. The Association was fortunate to have on board as Promotions Manager, Peter Risby who with a background in Systems planning and programming provided invaluable expertise in this new endeavour.

A busy Committee addressed a number of matters. Work initiated by Ivor Chalmers earlier was finalized and a new Constitution received the blessing of the Department of Fair Trading. Concerns were expressed once more about the situation with grounds and the possibly of playing cricket on Sunday mornings as an answer was flagged. The old C.S. Watson score book was revised and a new one more suited to SSJCA needs was introduced. Moves were made to formally introduce girls' cricket (See - "Girls play cricket too!") by conducting a gala day. On all fronts the Association was looking to move forward and address foreseeable needs in a changing environment.

The Have-a-go program continued to expand to the extent that Illawong opened a second centre at Blaxland Drive Illawong whilst Gymea ran one in their area. Combined, these programs catered for some 135 young enthusiasts less than nine years of age. It was proving an invaluable aid in recruiting kids to cricket.

By the end of the twentieth century the Association was spending $17,000 plus on representative cricket and outlaying some $60,000 overall. This was a far cry from the days of a few hundred dollars fifty years ago. What should be noted is that though expenditure was constantly increasing good management was ensuring that the financial situation remained healthy.

The year 2000 will always be remembered as the year the Olympics came to Sydney. As the Olympic Games were the dominating sporting activity of the year all else was re-thought to accommodate the games. Cricket was no different. The Association adjusted its program and the ten competition rounds became a mix of 6 two day matches and 4 one day limited over matches. Nevertheless, everything ran smoothly and the season was a success.

2000 was not an easy year. Under Peter Risby's guidance use of the Isport Internet system was expanded as people became more familiar with the system. Sunday cricket was introduced, and despite a determined consultative effort to persuade clubs as to the necessity of change it proved controversial. As President Peter Friend said in his Annual Report, "We also started Sunday cricket due to the increase in numbers of players and the relative shortage of grounds and the Council's desire to see their resources utilized to the full. We have conducted a post season analysis of this move in the face of some solid opposition to see if that opposition is widespread. Whatever the result, we will look at ways to improve the running of Sunday cricket, but the current committee is committed to the ongoing conduct of Sunday cricket for a wide range of reasons."

Whether it was because a new century had commenced or whether it was purely coincidental the year saw a number of "Firsts":

• A SSJCA website (www.isport.com.au/cricket/ssjca) thanks to Peter Risby.
• Use of E-mail as a major communications medium with Clubs.
• Cricket played on Sundays for a limited number of teams.
• A separate girls' competition
• Introduction of NSW Government legislation - The "Child Protection Act".
• Three courses in order to provide for coaching accreditation.
• The Awarding by the Governor-General of the Australian Sports Medal in recognition of services to cricket

It was a busy year!

A novel activity that year was the forming of a fielding drill team that gave displays at a Sutherland District Hospital Fund Raising Day and at a similar venture at the Hazlehurst Gallery, Gymea. The Drill team consisted of members of the Harold Moore Under 14 Representative team and were led and coached by Bill Johnson.

There was a flow on from all the above in the following year and Harry Peters as the incoming President guided the Association through another challenging year. Despite the many problems of the previous season the Association pressed ahead seeking to provide the best cricket package for all concerned. Ken Whittingham and Paul Giovenco in the previous year had started to reform Representative Cricket selection practices and procedures with a view to making them more open and transparent and seeking to ensure a level playing field for all seeking selection. Their efforts were showing pleasing results in their second year as Managers of SSJCA Representative Cricket.The view was expressed that it was hoped the changes could be sustained in the future.

May 2002 saw the passing of Ivor Chalmers who had been an outstanding Secretary known for his integrity, forthrightness and love of the game. A Life Member of both the Association and Caringbah Sports Cricket Club he was a legend in his own time.

With the cooperation of the Grade Club and many of its players a Skills Development Day was conducted at the Solander playing fields and all clubs participated by sending along their younger members playing Introductory Cricket. The Have-a-go program had now spread to five centres and 230 children were given a taste of cricket through a series of basic skill development programs.

At the other end of the scale the Ken Whittingham/Paul Giovenco combination initiated an Off Season Development Program for aspiring representative cricketers involving a weekly session at an indoor cricket centre at Caringbah. This program was conducted by experienced Level Two coaches. While no guarantee for selection, it sought to identify players with enthusiasm, commitment and potential.

The following season five members of the Management Committee opted not to stand and whilst this signified a loss of a great amount of experience new and knowledgeable replacements came forth. But the work goes on! Two more Skills Development days were organized successfully, the first catering for older players (U12, U14, U16) while the second concentrated on the Under 10 and Under 8 age groups. Have-a-go cricket continued to be a successful enterprise proving the worth of this venture. A large part of its success can be attributed to the enthusiasm of the volunteers who got behind this activity and the number of young 'senior' players who helped out and passed on their knowledge.

The Association played a major role in analyzing the health risks involved with pace bowling. Chosen by Cricket Australia and the Australian Institute of Sports as a participant, the SSJCA provided a number of 'older' fast bowlers to be involved in a "SPOT" study on spinal injuries arising from an excessive workload. Steve Mullaly from St John Bosco Club coordinated the program on behalf of the Association and his effort was invaluable to the final outcome.

By 2003/04 the Association had decided to abandon Sunday cricket returning to play solely on Saturday mornings. Illawong Menai won their first ever Club Championship after 26 years of effort. Ray Brennan retired after a history making 17 years as Treasurer. A young lad by the name of Luke Trudgett who had played representative cricket for the Association achieved selection in the Australian Deaf Team to play 3 Tests and 5 ODI's against England. Luke played his early cricket with Gymea Bay and later with DLS Seagulls and never let his disability get in the way of achieving success.

Peter Smith retired at the end of the season effectively increasing vacancies on the management committee to four causing a degree of concern. In the interests of Junior Cricket it is essential that all positions be filled so the workload can be shared. The year also saw the passing of Jack Rutty who had spent many years working for cricket, first with Miranda Magpies then St. Patrick's and again for 16 years with the Association. Jack's efforts go down in the history of the Association as one of the longest serving members ever to step up to the wicket and take guard.

Tom Croucher's expertise in computer systems and software resulted in further refinements to procedures. A major innovation was the introduction of a computer generated file for each team.

Another step forward in the pursuance of a safe playing environment was the introduction of the compulsory use of helmets in all grades from Under 10 to Under 16. Once again the SSJCA was at the forefront of promoting good and safe cricket conditions for all players.

In 2005/06 a new variation was introduced to provide players with some variety. Over a four week period on a Monday night Under 12 teams played a Super 8 competition. Each night consisted of three games and the teams were made up by mixing players in that age group from all grades.

Despite the continuing drought conditions the season made it through with Sutherland Shire Council doing all it could to facilitate cricket's needs. Peter Risby retired after six years during which he pioneered the development of the Association's website, a significant contribution in a period of change where the electronic medium has become accepted as a part of life and a prime means of communication.

Tom Croucher forged ahead with the implementation of software programs to facilitate keeping all the records and statistics that go to making cricket the game it is. In the process he has simplified the submission of results and eliminated the need for paperwork, in particular Result Sheets, to be conveyed from one end of the Shire to the other or dropped in to a central point such as the B.P. Service Station Kirrawee. Gone are the days when some unfortunate club member had to make a dash to meet a deadline to avoid being fined for the late submission of a Result Sheet. Progress is being made!

Another Foundation Member left this world during the season. John (Jack) Moodie the original Recorder/Publicity Officer passed away after many years of poor health. His contribution to cricket in its early days was outstanding to say the least given that he undertook the responsibility for two major roles and did this for some years.

The first twenty five years were full of challenges, the second twenty five no different. I venture to say that the next twenty five will be likewise for if the Association as a body stands still inevitably it must go backward. The changes over the past twenty five years have been significant. Judged objectively as a historian recording facts it must be said that in the main there have been few, if any, major mistakes. Each and every time a matter has come up requiring attention it has been dealt with, with reason and good judgment, according to the circumstances.

The records show that there has not been a management team over the fifty years that has ever failed to grasp the fact that it is there to provide cricket for kids and that cricket must encompass all levels and all types of players.

The dedication of these volunteers is in itself a remarkable contribution. I'm privileged to be the author of this work even more privileged to have "been there, done that".

Looking back over these fifty years the Sutherland Shire Junior Cricket Association can be proud of its efforts, proud of its record.