Hornsby Shire Council’s Mark Taylor Oval Indoor Cricket Centre has been recognised at the Cricket Australia 2024 Community Cricket Awards, winning Indoor Facility of the Year.
Formally opened by the Council in February 2023, the Waitara centre is the first of its kind in the region. It is used by men and women’s cricket teams for all weather training and specialist coaching.
“Congratulations to all the wonderful volunteers at the Northern District Cricket Club for the Indoor Facility of the Year award. Hornsby Shire Council is honoured to have upgraded these facilities and it’s the dedication of the volunteers that instil the gift of sport every day,” said Mayor, Philip Ruddock AO.
The national award follows the success of the Centre in the Cricket NSW awards in March where it also won Indoor Facility of the Year.
The Council said the success of the Centre, delivered in partnership with the Northern District Cricket Club, wouldn’t be possible without the tireless work of the volunteers who create opportunities for players of all levels and ability.
The club is supported by around 40 dedicated volunteers who assist with everything from coaching to cleaning and maintenance of the Indoor Cricket Centre.
Phil Melville, a member of the Australian Over 50s Cricket Squad has been volunteer coaching the ‘all abilities’ cricketers at the club for many years, providing opportunities for people will intellectual disability, such as autism and Down Syndrome, to participate in sport.
“It’s very rewarding to coach these wonderful cricketers. Many have never played organised cricket when they first come, but they love having the structure here at the club,” he said.
“It certainly puts my old aches and pains into perspective when I see what these players with intellectual disabilities need to overcome. We’re lucky to have this world-class facility on our doorstep in Hornsby Shire.”
