Community Cricket Awards

Mr BELL (Mount Gambier) (15:18): I rise to congratulate two outstanding individuals from my electorate who have made a tremendous impact on grassroots cricket in South Australia. Chloe Mackenzie and Ben Johnson have both gone above and beyond to foster inclusivity, develop young talent and build stronger communities through their dedication to junior cricket. Their recognition at the recent 2024-25 South Australian Cricket Association Community Cricket Awards is not only well deserved but a testament to the lasting difference they have made to the lives of young cricketers.

Chloe Mackenzie, the recipient of the Young Leader of the Year award, has transformed the landscape of junior girls' cricket in the South-East region. At just 22 years of age, she has identified a significant gap in opportunities for young girls to play cricket in a supportive, female-only environment. She established the first ever South-East junior girls cricket community, giving girls the opportunity to train, learn and develop their skills alongside their peers.

The impact of Chloe's work speaks for itself. Young girls who once had no choice but to play in mixed-gender competitions now have a space where they can thrive and build confidence. The words of her players—praising her kindness, coaching ability and dedication—demonstrate just how much she has inspired them.

Hailing from a regional area, Chloe's commitment sees her conduct sessions all over the South-East, at times driving up to 200 kilometres after work to conduct a training session to ensure these young girls have a pathway to continue their cricketing journey. Her dedication, leadership and tireless work have laid the foundation for a sustainable future for girls' cricket in the South-East. This was further recognised last week with the announcement on International Women's Day that Chloe was a recipient of the Power of Her Emerging Leader award. Her recognition for both awards as a young leader is a testament to the lasting impact young adults can have on a community.

Equally deserving of recognition is Ben Johnson, this year's Cricket Blast Coordinator of the Year. Ben has been a driving force behind junior cricket in Mount Gambier, dedicating countless hours to coaching and developing young players. Managing two under-10 teams and running a Cricket Blast program for 30 children, Ben has ensured that every child, regardless of their ability, has the opportunity to enjoy and develop their love for cricket.

What makes Ben exceptional is not just his coaching skills but his ability to connect with people, whether it is the young cricketers, their parents or siblings on the sidelines. Ben's enthusiasm and energy are infectious, his sessions are engaging, his coaching is adaptable to different skill levels and, most importantly, he makes cricket fun. He understands that sport is not just about competition—it is about community.

Recognising a gap in the junior cricket pathway, Ben established an under-10s program to bridge the intimidating gap between Cricket Blast and under 12s. Thanks to his leadership, more young players are staying involved in the sport, families are far more engaged and the local cricketing community is stronger than ever.

It is leaders like Chloe Mackenzie and Ben Johnson who ensure that grassroots cricket can continue to flourish. Their dedication, leadership and passion for the game are inspiring and I have no doubt their impact will be felt for years to come. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to them both.

While we are on the topic of cricket, I would also like to congratulate the West Gambier Cricket Club, who were successful in taking out back-to-back titles in the Mount Gambier and District Cricket Association's Barber Shield, with a dominant win over Penola. Sam Willis was player of the match, with an impressive seven-wicket haul that even included a hat-trick. West also took out the B-grade title, with Yahl Cricket Club claiming the C-grade honours.

The SPEAKER: Yahl, the home club of test spinner Peter Sleep and a great Redback. We wish the Redbacks all the best next week in the final of the shield. The member for Colton.