Cricket Australia celebrates outstanding volunteer contributions

Coinciding with National Volunteer Week, Cricket Australia has announced its National Community Cricket Award winners, celebrating the impressive contribution and tireless work of volunteers at the heart of grassroots cricket.

The annual awards celebrate excellence in 16 categories, highlighting individuals, clubs, and associations that have made a positive impact in their communities.

The National Community Cricket Award winners and nominees showcased exceptional initiatives in key areas such as volunteering, club administration, officiating, participation, diversity and inclusion, program and facilities development.

In many instances, last year's individual award recipients helped to select this year's winner of their respective categories, adding valuable perspective to the selection process.

Cricket Australia congratulates all winners and nominees for their significant contribution to Australian Cricket and their local communities.

Cricket Australia's Chief of Cricket, James Allsopp notes "The National Community Cricket Awards recognise the outstanding contributions of individuals and clubs who dedicate their time and effort to support cricket across Australia. Volunteers are the backbone of grassroots cricket, playing a vital role in ensuring its continued growth and success in local communities.

"These awards highlight the dedication and commitment of those who make cricket more accessible, inclusive, and enjoyable for players of all ages and abilities. Their efforts-whether in administration, coaching, officiating, or community engagement-help strengthen clubs and create welcoming environments for everyone involved.

"On behalf of Cricket Australia, I congratulate all the winners and nominees for their remarkable achievements. Their hard work and passion make a meaningful difference, and we sincerely appreciate everything they do to support the game."

National Community Award Winners

• Volunteer of the Year: Chrissie Ponter, Federal Cricket Club, NT

• Community Cricket Club of the Year: Coromandel Valley Ramblers Cricket Club, SA

• Women & Girls Initiative of the Year: Mel Nixon, Tracy Village Cricket Club, NT

• Young Leader of the Year: Henry Land, Cunnamulla Emus Cricket Club, QLD

• Celebrating Cricket in Schools: St Andrews Catholic College, Redlynch, QLD

• Community Cricket Association of the Year: Metropolitan Junior Community Cricket Inc., WA

• Community Cricket Coach of the Year: Dave Neil, Orange CYMS Cricket Club, NSW

• Community Cricket Partnership of the Year: Swan Valley Cricket Club, WA

• Community Facility Project of the Year (Major Category - $1M+): Shoalhaven City Council, Artie Smith Oval, NSW

• Community Facility Project of the Year (Minor Category - < $1M): Eastlake Junior Cricket Club/ACT Government, Deakin West Oval, ACT

• Community Match Official of the Year: Amey Jambeka, Huon Channel Cricket Association, TAS

• Cricket Blast Coordinator of the Year: Shane Wilson, Kiama Cavaliers Cricket Club, NSW

• Inclusion and Diversity Initiative of the Year: Priya Rajendra, North Balwyn Cricket Club & Melbourne Deaf Cricket Club, VIC

• Indoor Facility of the Year: Charmhaven Indoor Sports, NSW

• Junior Initiative of the Year: Warringah Cricket Club, NSW

• Technology and Media Initiative of the Year: Warwick Greenwood Cricket Club, WA

Image. Coromandel Valley Ramblers Cricket Club named Community Club of the Year at the SACA Community Cricket Awards. Set to celebrate 100 years in 2026, the Club has been recognised for its junior growth, community-first approach and inclusive programs like Walking Cricket for over 50s.