March - Melbourne Cricket Club

NO. 144 MARCH 2010 ISSN 1322–377125 YEARS ON, WE’RELIGHTYEARS AHEAD

CLUB NEWSJUST REWARDSFOR CRICKETVOLUNTEERSOUR COVERA beautiful scene.The MCG lightswere unveiled forthe first time onDecember 3, 1984and hosted the firstnight cricket matchon February 17,1985.MCC presidentDavid Meiklejohnwas among 17club members recognised inthis year’s Australia Dayhonours list.Our 25th president, acommitteeman since 1987who served as treasurer(1993-2001) and vice-president(2001-07) before assuming thepresidency three years ago, wasappointed a Member (AM) ofthe Order of Australia “forservice to the business sector,particularly in the field offinance, and to sport throughthe Melbourne Cricket Club”.David played a key role inboth the building of the GreatSouthern Stand (1992) and theNorthern Stand redevelopmentproject completed in 2006.He was also pivotal innegotiating with the MCGAO (General Division)GROOM, Mr Raymond JohnLITTLE, Mr Paul AlexanderMcRAE, Mr Ian RobertAM (General Division)BLAIR, Mr Andrew PhilipBOLITHO, Dr Leslie EdwardBROWN, Professor Graham VallanceyCADE, Professor John FrancisHENDERSON, Mr Alan GilbertLILLEE MBE, Mr Dennis KeithMEIKLEJOHN, Mr David EdwardSHANN, Professor Frank AtholPRESIDENT HONOUREDON AUSTRALIA DAYTrust and the VictorianGovernment the club’senhanced groundmanagement agreementand improved facilities forthe sporting public.A senior business worldfigure for many years, hecurrently is chairman ofPaperlinX and a director ofANZ, Coca Cola Amatil andMirrabooka Investments Ltd.Other notable MCCmembers honoured includeMCG guide Noel Hall, cricketgreat Dennis Lillee MBE,former Tasmanian premierand Melbourne footballerRay Groom and businessmanPaul Little.If you or someone you knowwas honoured but doesn’tappear on the list, please advisethe club on (03) 9657 8888 oremail membership@mcc.org.au.MCC MEMBERS HONOURED ON AUSTRALIA DAYOAM (General Division)FULLER, Dr John ArthurHALL, Mr Noel FrankHOPKINS, Dr Ian JamesPRICE, Mr Simon CrealockAFSM(Australian Fire Service Medal)HAWKINS, Mr Robert JohnCDS(Commendation for Distinguished Service)HOCKING, Lieutenant ColonelAndrew JohnAquartet of MCC memberswas among 14 Victorianvolunteers who received anICC Centenary Volunteer Medalduring the Boxing Day Test for theircontribution to cricket.Nominations for the 50 AustralianICC Volunteer Medals on offer weregathered from across the cricketspectrum. The medals recognisevolunteers who have made a significantcontribution to cricket both past andpresent, from the grassroots levels upto those involved with the elite.The recipients were introduced byCricket Australia chairman and ICCdirector Jack Clarke on the MCG priorto play on Day 3 of the Test. Amongthem were new 50-Year MCC memberGraham Burt (below), Cricket Victoriachairman Geoff Tamblyn and twoformer chairmen of Cricket Australia –Bob Merriman and Malcolm Gray.While the latter three gentlemen willbe well known in cricket circles, thestory of the unheralded Graham Burtcertainly deserves an airing.Graham took on the captaincy ofSorrento Cricket Club First XI in theMornington Peninsula CricketAssociation in 1966 and continued inthat role for 15 years. He was alsosecretary of the club during this timeand is a life member.In 1980-81 he moved to SeafordCricket Club where he was acommitteeman for 29 years, duringwhich period he served as president,secretary and treasurer. In 2008, aged69, he filled in for two games when theclub was short of players and he hasbeen a champion of junior developmentthroughout his career. A well deservedhonour, you’ll agree!2 MCC NEWS MARCH 2010

FROM THE PRESIDENTAs this is the first newsletter forthe year, I hope all members findthat 2010 is shaping up as ahappy, healthy and prosperous time foreach of you.We have enjoyed a pleasing summer ofcricket so far as overall crowds areconcerned. The Boxing Day Test was, asalways, a great success and I congratulatethe Australian team on their winagainst Pakistan.It is interesting to note, however, thedynamics of the growth of Twenty20cricket and the adverse impact it appearsto be having on the 50-over games. Theground drew an attendance of 60,054for the Twenty20 international onFebruary 5 and an Australian domesticrecord of 43,125 at the Victoria-Tasmania Big Bash game on January 15.Unfortunately attendances at the50-over games were well down and thisis a solid pointer to what the publicprefers. Notwithstanding the abovetrend, I suspect that we will be cateringfor much larger crowds next summerwhen England is on tour.I was very pleased that the legislationenabling the club to take over themanagement of Yarra Park passedthrough both houses of the VictorianParliament without incident beforeChristmas. This was a very satisfactoryfinal step in the negotiations between theMCC and the MCG, the AFL and theState Government.It has been a win-win situation for allparties with additional revenue flowingto the MCG home football clubs, anextension to the Grand Final at the MCGuntil 2037 and provision for a watertreatment plant for Yarra Park which willimprove the amenity of the park for allusers, including the local residents.The Yarra Park project team is welladvanced in the planning process and weexpect work in the park to commencelater this year.We have also formed a steeringcommittee to oversee renovation works onthe Great Southern Stand. Our architectsare currently scoping the project and weshould have a firm framework to considerby mid-year.As I have said on previous occasions,MCC president David Meiklejohnformally opens the Dean Jones Bar in thePonsford Stand at the MCG with the manof the moment (see page 8).life never stands still at the MCG. It isless than four years since we completedthe Northern Stand redevelopment andwe are now looking at another twomajor projects. The club remains in astrong position financially and thecommittee will ensure that the facilitiesand services provided for memberscontinue to be upgraded and improved.The AFL fixture for 2010 delivers us ahost of potential blockbuster matches, somembers will have many opportunitiesto book reserved seats for themselvesand for their guests. The reserved seatpolicy has been extended to apply to allgames and I am sure that members willappreciate this initiative.In closing, I was very pleased to beappointed as a Member of the GeneralDivision of the Order of Australia in theAustralia Day Honours list. I am veryfortunate to have been associated withwhat I consider to be the greatestsporting club in the world for manyyears and to me the award reflects thestature of the MCC and the MCG in theAustralian and international sportingculture.I look forward to seeing many of youand your guests at our social functionsand at the footy in the months ahead.David Meiklejohn AMRESERVE YOUR SEAT AT THE FOOTYThe MCG kicks off the 2010 AFL season with a triple-headerof matches, commencing with old rivals Richmond andCarlton on Thursday March 25 at 7.40pm. Geelong will unfurl itspremiership flag the following evening before a clash with theBombers, while MCG co-tenants Melbourne and Hawthorn willround out a busy opening stanza on Saturday March 27.Members may purchase reserved seats for themselves and theirguests for all matches this season. The club has previously trialledthe pre-sale of a portion of levels 1 and 4 of the Reserve atCategory A matches and is now extending this to apply at all homeand away matches.Visitor tickets and reserved seats for the first 21 rounds will goon sale on Thursday March 4 at 9.00am. There is a limit of fourvisitor tickets per member for all matches except Anzac Day (twoper member). Tickets to Round 22 will be available after the AFLfinalises the schedule for that round.Further details about reserved seats, including prices and seatlocations, can be found along with all other arrangements for thefootball season in an eight-page guide accompanying this newsletter.MCG TURNS PINKFOR A CAUSEAlmost five years after thatmemorable pink night at theMCG, the Field of Women LIVEevent will make a return at theMelbourne v Western Bulldogs gameon Friday May 7.More than 14,000 women and 100 men will take to the field priorto the match to form a pink lady silhouette. This powerful humandisplay will highlight the growing number of Australians affectedeach year by breast cancer, and bring the statistics to life. Since theinaugural event on the MCG in 2005, the number of womendiagnosed with breast cancer has grown from 11,500 to 14,000.The MCC fully supports this event run by Breast Cancer NetworkAustralia. We invite all MCC members to come along on May 7 andshow your support for those affected by breast cancer.Members can also register their interest to take part in the formationof the pink lady on the arena at www.fieldofwomenlive.org.au.MARCH 2010 MCC NEWS 3

CLUB NEWSOUR REAL TENNISWORLD CHAMPSports trivia buffs would be hardpressed to name him, but the MCCsporting family is home to anAustralian athlete whose worlddomination in his chosen field wouldrival the achievements of Roger Federerand Tiger Woods.MCC Real Tennis Section memberRobert Fahey has successfully defendedhis world championship title on nineoccasions and will be looking to makeit into double figures when he conteststhe best-of-13-set final over three daysfrom May 4-8 at Royal MelbourneTennis Club.The 41-year-old Tasmanian, nowbased in London, visited the club while intown in early-February to catch a glimpseof his potential opponents in the final.A modest man, the world number one’sachievements are extraordinary. He haswon 11 Australian Opens, 10 FrenchOpens, eight US Opens and eight BritishOpens. Not to mention three grand slams(2000, 2001 and 2008) and three worlddoubles titles!While the intricacies of real tennis maynot be widely understood, the originalracquet sport can be described as acombination of squash and regulartennis, played on a walled indoor court.The scoring system is similar to tennis,wooden racquets are still used, the courtdimensions are bigger, the walls are inplay, and the balls are heavier and lessbouncy. Additionally, the court endsare differently designed, the roofsof the walls slope and there are windowsand openings into which the ball canbe struck.“It sounds complicated, but it’s not ascomplicated as people think,” Fahey toldInside Sport magazine. “It’s pretty mucha standard back and forth over the netgame with one extra rule. But it’s thatone extra rule that throws everybody.”The one extra rule is called the chase,which in Fahey’s words can be describedthus: “If I beat you with a shot, you getone opportunity to hit a better shot thanthe one I beat you with. If you do, wereplay the point. If you don’t, bad luck,we just resume as normal.”MCC members can view Fahey’s worldchampionship trophy over the next fewmonths in the Long Room, until it isremoved for presentation to this year’swinner. But if the last decade is anyindication, you may find the trophyreturns here for another year.Right: Nine-time realtennis worldchampion Rob Faheyin action in Hobartin February.Below: Fahey (right)with MCC RealTennis Sectionchairman AndrewShelton in theLong Room.HODGE PULLS UP STUMPSBrad Hodgewalks off theMCG for thelast time ina SheffieldShield match.The first-class career of MCCbatting dynamo Brad Hodgedrew to a close in Decemberwhen the diminutive right-handerannounced his retirement from the longerform of the game.The 35-year-old, who joined the MCC20 years ago via the under-16 DowlingShield competition, bowed out of SheffieldShield action in a winning side againstSouth Australia on his beloved MCG,destined to be regarded as Australiancricket’s “nearly man”.The Hodge tale is well known.Despite a stellar career for Victoriain all forms of the game since his debutas an 18-year-old in 1993/94, hisinternational tally comprises just sixTests (average 55.88) and 25 one-daymatches. His non-selection at variouspoints in his career became a regulartalking point among cricket fans.Just two Tests after registering hismaiden Test century, 203 not out againstSouth Africa at Perth in 2005, he wasdropped from the side and, apart froma brief reprieve in 2008 due to teaminjuries, never returned.Hodge sits alongside Darren Lehmannas the most dominant batsman on theAustralian domestic scene over the lasttwo decades.He leaves the game as Victoria’sfirst-class games and runs record holder,having played a key role in the 2003/04and 2008/09 Pura Cup/Sheffield Shieldvictories.“I feel the time is right to step downfrom first-class cricket,” Hodge saidat his retirement media conference.“It’s been a wonderful journey, whichhopefully has more to go at limited oversand Twenty20 level. Playing Test cricketfor Australia was an incredible experienceand I feel proud and blessed to have hadthat opportunity.”4 MCC NEWS MARCH 2010

LONG ROAD BEGINSIN YARRA PARKSince our last newsletter, we canconfirm that legislation transferringmanagement responsibility of YarraPark to the MCG Trust and the club haspassed through the Victorian Parliament.The club takes over management of thepark from March 15.The legislation requires the MCG Trust/MCC to honour existing Yarra Parkcontracts with Citywide (curatorial/maintenance and cleaning, expiring 2014),Secure Parking (provision of event dayparking management, expiring October2010) and vendors (food vans around theMCG, expiring October 2010).Accordingly, the club has held extensivediscussions with the various parties abouttheir roles in the park, as well as with theCity of Melbourne regarding transitionof management.The MCC is required to submit anannual Management and Improvement(M&I) Plan for Yarra Park to theVictorian Government by March eachyear. In this case, the critical M&I Planwill cover the first three to four years ofplanned activities.A Yarra Park Advisory Committee willbe formed, comprising a minimum of fiveand up to seven members: 1 – MCG Trust (chair) 1 – MCC (CEO or nominee) 1 – City of Melbourne 2 – Community representativesnominated by City of Melbourne,subject to the Sports Minister’sapproval. An additional two nominees asappointed by the Sports Ministerwhen required.The initial works to be undertaken inYarra Park are in line with the originalpublished Master Plan and will be spreadover three to four years.The installation of the water recyclingplant, underground in the park outside theGate 2 members’ entrance, is one of the mostsignificant pieces of work, ensuring that wecan get a regular supply of water to the park,especially during the summer months.It is envisaged that we will commencethe plant’s installation in October thisyear and be capable of providing water toYarra Park, the MCG and Punt RoadOval by the beginning of summer in 2011.During the construction period, carparking numbers in Yarra Park will beslightly reduced. An alternative area willbe identified for disabled parking adjacentto the MCG.We will provide regular updates via ourcommunication channels to ensure allstakeholders, including members, are keptaware of developments through what willbe a long-term project with many benefitsfor all who use the Yarra Park precinct.CRICKET FANSFLOCK IN LARGENUMBERSWhile much anticipation surroundsthe upcoming Ashes series, andwith 10 months remaining it will onlyget stronger, the recently completedsummer of cricket again reinforced theMCG’s importance to the national game.The home of cricket recorded the fivehighest single-day attendances for thesummer, including the first three days ofthe Boxing Day Test, the Twenty20international and an Australian recordcrowd of 43,125 for a Twenty20 BigBash match involving Victoria andTasmania on January 15.MCC members were an integralcomponent, representing more than athird of those gathered for most matches.There is no doubting the popularity ofTwenty20 cricket. Victoria’s match atthe MCG in the Big Bash competition onJanuary 2 against NSW attracted 28,052people, well above pre-game estimates.Add that to the record crowd afortnight later and 60,000-plus for theinternational version and it’s perhapstime to accept that cricket’s shortestform has well and truly arrived.MARCH 2010 MCC NEWS 5

CLUB NEWSCELEBRATING AQUARTER CENTURY INTHE MCG SPOTLIGHTWe take them for granted today,but the famous MCG lighttowers have had a huge impacton life at the ground and providedenormous benefits for all the stakeholdersinvolved.On February 17 we celebrated 25 yearsof night sport at the MCG, a period inwhich the ground has hosted hundreds ofmemorable AFL and cricket events, not tomention Commonwealth Games, OlympicFootball, soccer, rugby, concerts and more.Indeed, everyone has their favouriterecollections of great sporting moments at afloodlit ’G.Night sport is now an entrenched partof our culture. That it has helped cementMelbourne’s reputation as a thriving majorevents city can largely be attributed to theforesight of the MCC and Victorian CricketAssociation (VCA), who back in 1984proposed construction of the six towers,which at 85 metres high are each equivalentto a 24-storey building.As part of Victoria’s sesquicentenarycelebrations of 1985, the seven Test-playingnations were invited to participate in aseries of one-day games in a format similarto the World Cup. Jointly promoted withthe MCC as the Benson and Hedges WorldChampionship of Cricket, the competitionwas a huge success. It ran from February 17to March 10.“The sporting world was moving towardsnight sport and lights would enhance theMCG’s international status,” recalled thenVictorian Premier John Cain, who also wasan MCG trustee during this period.“They would be good for the ground andgood for Melbourne.”On that historic opening night, a crowdof 82,494 witnessed Australian pair RobbieKerr (87 not out) and Dean Jones (78 notout) produce an unbeaten partnership of157, still an MCG fourth wicket record, asthe home side defeated England by sevenwickets. Alas, the Aussies didn’t make thefinal, India defeating Pakistan and drawinga remarkable 35,296 to the ground whenthe host team was absent.The 25-year milestone would have beena long way from the minds of the mainplayers in 1984-85 though, as the club founditself amidst an industrial relations disputesurrounding the erection of the lights.The Builders Labourers’ Federation saidits members should work on the project,claiming the towers were “a building” ratherthan a structure. The Australian Workers’Unions and the Federated Ironworkers’Association made counter claims andeventually the issue came before industrialrelations commissioner Bob Merriman,ironically a VCA director at the time.“I wasn’t passing judgment on whetherTop: MCC cricketers bat under lights forthe first time. Far left: Premier John Cainand MCC president Sir Bernard Callinanturn on the lights. Left: Australian cricketersDean Jones and Robbie Kerr.6 MCC NEWS MARCH 2010

LAWRY, McKENZIEJOIN CRICKET’S ELITEThe Australian Cricket Hall ofFame (ACHOF) at the MCGwelcomed another two stars of thegame in February with the inductionof former teammates Bill Lawry andGraham McKenzie.The pair, who roomed together during the1961 Ashes tour and whose Test careers ranside by side through the 1960s and early’70s, brings to 32 the number of players tobe honoured since the MCC established thehall of fame in 1996. This shrine toAustralia’s cricketing greats can be seen inthe National Sports Museum.“There is no doubt Bill Lawry andGraham McKenzie are both very worthyBILL LAWRYLeft-hand opening batsmanBorn: 1937 67 Tests (1961-71)5234 runs at 47.15Combining immense courage andconcentration with an impeccabletechnique, Lawry was one of Australia’sgreatest opening batsmen. Although ableto occupy the crease for long periods, healso possessed many powerful shots andwas adept at punishing loose deliveries.In only his second Test he scored amatch-winning 130 against England on adifficult pitch at Lord’s, and throughout the1960s his dependability at the top of theorder was a feature of Australia’s batting.Forming a highly successful openingpartnership with Bob Simpson, the pairshared nine century opening stands,including 382 against the West Indies in1965, still the Australian first-wicketrecord, to which Lawry contributed hishighest Test score of 210.Appointed captain in 1967/68, he ledAustralia in 25 Tests before becoming apopular television commentator.inductees into the Australian Cricket Hall ofFame,” said selection panel chairman andMCC vice-president, Bob Lloyd.“Bill was an outstanding openingbatsman and captain of Australia during his67-Test career and has also had an ongoingand significant role in cricket as anadministrator and commentator.“Graham almost single-handedly led theAustralian attack over a 10-year period andhis 246 wickets places him eighth on theall-time Australian list.”The ACHOF potted biographies for bothinductees, penned by MCC libraryvolunteers Ray Webster and Ken Williams,tell the story.GRAHAM McKENZIERight-arm fast bowlerBorn: 1941 60 Tests (1961-71)246 wickets at 29.78An outstanding fast bowler renowned forhis superb physique and smooth action,Graham McKenzie carried Australia’space attack for much of the 1960s.From an economical 10-pace run-up,his classic side-on delivery enabled him todeceive leading batsmen around the worldwith late outswing and unexpected speedand lift. He possessed remarkablestamina and with Australia’s limitedbowling resources at the time, he wasoften forced to be both a stock and astrike bowler.Chosen for the 1961 Australian tour ofEngland at 19, he took 5/37 at Lord’s onhis Test debut and went on to become theyoungest Australian to reach both 100and 200 Test wickets.His most successful series was againstthe West Indies in 1968/69 when his 30wickets included a career-best 8/71 atthe MCG.LADIES’ LEGENDDEPARTS THESCENEThe much-loved Betty Wilson died aged88 in January and many mourned herpassing, not simply because she was theheroine of women’s cricket but alsobecause she was one of the game’scharacters who was always welcome in theupper echelon of a male-dominated sport.An inaugural inductee into the SportAustralia Hall of Fame in 1985, Betty wasrecognised as the female Bradman, althougha paucity of opportunities denied herstatistical fame. She played 11 Tests forAustralia between 1947/48 and 1957/58,the only Tests scheduled during that period.Her ability was evident early on, playingSecond XI women’s cricket for Victoria at14 and debuting in the firsts at 16. Aright-hand bat and fine off spinner, in1957/58 against England at Melbourne(St Kilda Cricket Ground) she became thefirst cricketer of either sex to make a centuryand take 10 wickets in a Test match. Forgood measure, her wicket haul included ahat trick, another first.Betty was a generous donor ofmemorabilia to the club. “In 2005 shegave us just about everything of merit,including her baggy green cap that hadbeen awarded retrospectively,” recalledlibrarian David Studham.“Betty was a delightful, friendly lady andwhen she arrived with all her gear we weretreated to a detailed description of all theobjects plus a demonstration of her battingand bowling techniques.“It was an enthralling morning for librarystaff and our volunteers, one of whom, thelate Stan Bannister, was so impressed that hewrote to the president recommending thatshe be offered Honorary Cricketmembership of the club forthwith!”Night followed day and Betty became anHCM of the MCC in 2006.MARCH 2010 MCC NEWS 11

RECORDS, DRAMANOTHER MCG SUMSuch was the nature of the MCGcricket action this summer that thethousands of members and guests whowitnessed it would be hard-pressed to selectone stand-out moment or performance.The ground’s steady diet of one Testmatch, two one-day internationals, aTwenty20 international and domesticcricket in all its forms again produceda stream of highlights and memories.When pushed, many would nominatethe comedic mix up between Aussieopeners Shane Watson and Simon Katichon Boxing Day that led to Watson’s runout after another knock in the 90s. Thesight of both batsmen stranded at thesame end, each silently hoping the otherwas the victim, was priceless – and onlyexacerbated by Katich’s dismissal soonafter for 98!Others might argue that Watson outdidhimself in the drama stakes three dayslater. Searching for that elusive maidencentury, the eventual Allan Bordermedallist again nervously worked his waythrough the nineties. He headed to lunchunbeaten on 98. More anxious momentswere to follow after the break, as Watsonchased a succession of wide offeringsoutside off stump.Pakistan’s tactic appeared to haveworked when the right-hander slashed afull, wide delivery to Abdur Rauf atbackward point, only for the fielder toturf the chance and hand Watson hiscentury - 66 minutes after he had enteredthe 90s. It is difficult to recall a strangermix of laughter, relief and applause insidethe MCG.The politically minded may have evenlisted the visit by Prime Minister KevinRudd and sports minister Kate Ellis intothe Members Reserve on the second dayof the Test as a highlight. Certainly thosewho were able to share a moment withthe PM in the Long Room will rememberit for some time.Meanwhile, many left the ’G convincedthey had seen two of the game’s futurestars in Pakistan pair Umar Akmal andMohammad Aamer. The teenagers set theground alight at various stages of thegame, the former peeling off somedazzling strokes in his innings of 51 and27, while left-armer Aamer became thesecond youngest bowler in Test history toclaim a five-wicket haul.Aamer’s performance would havegladdened the heart of his countrymanand former quick Waqar Younis, whoventured into the Members Dining Roomto be grilled on the art of reverse swing in12 MCC NEWS MARCH 2010

A, CLASS: JUSTMER OF CRICKETfront of a sell-out audience at the BoxingDay Breakfast.The Pakistan theme continued on Day 2at the Women in Cricket Breakfast, whenformer Aussie paceman and Pakistancoach Geoff Lawson recounted some ofhis amazing experiences during his recentcoaching tenure.This year’s Boxing Day Test attracteda crowd of 156,267, an increase of almost20 per cent on the last Pakistan tour in2004/05. Australia, led by man-of-thematchWatson and a five-wicket haulfrom off-spinner Nathan Hauritz weretoo good, winning by 170 runs.The members (and their guests) continueto show their support for Test cricket, asMembers Reserve attendances accountedfor 36 per cent of the overall ground totalduring the Test. On Boxing Day alone, theEpicure team served 2765 plated meals tomembers and guests – the highest ever onan event day in the Reserve.The Boxing Day attendance of59,206 remained the high mark of thesummer until the Twenty20 internationalon February 5 eclipsed it with 60,054(see page 5).Australia won the low-scoring contestby two runs, headlined by the whirlwindpace bowling of Shaun Tait. The Aussiefirebrand sent down the fastest recordeddelivery on Australian soil (160.7kmh)during a blistering spell of 3-13 from hisfour overs.The international summer was roundedoff by two 50-over matches betweenAustralia and West Indies on February 7and 19. Although Windies captain ChrisGayle talked up his charges’ chances priorto the five-match series, twocomprehensive wallopings at the ’G werepart of the series whitewash.Cricket fans’ appetite for the shortestform of the game was demonstrated quiteclearly on January 15, when an Australiandomestic record crowd of 43,125 attendedthe Twenty20 Big Bash between Victoriaand Tasmania on a balmy Melbourneevening. The Bushrangers won thatmatch and eventually the title, continuingtheir incredible form in the Twenty20format in recent years.As we headed to print, the Vics were dueto host the Ford Ranger Cup Final (Feb 28)and possibly the Sheffield Shield Final(Mar 17-21), leaving them open toachieving the treble. We wish them well.The quality of the MCG pitchesmatched the on-field action, withCameron Hodgkins and his team to becommended on another job well done.MARCH 2010MCC NEWS13

CLUB SPORTRobert Rouch has been an MCCman since the gateman allowedhim to squeeze through a singleturnstile with his older brother as aseven-year-old, thus leaving one of dad’stwo lady’s tickets for mum.Later, the 2009 Hans Ebeling Awardwinner and 50-Year member was a faircricketer for Scotch College, but not asHans Ebeling Award winner RobertRouch with wife Ruth at the SportingSections Annual Dinner in November.WELL BOWLED, ROBERTgood as his brother Peter who was offeredjunior playing membership to come acrossto the MCC.Robert became a man of the land in 1956when his father bought a cattle propertynear Tumbarumba and moved the family tosouthern NSW. Rouch Senior leased theproperty to his two boys and they went onto establish a leading Hereford stud,“Narwonah”, winning countless blueribbons at shows around the country.After 28 years on the land and onlyoccasional visits to the MCG to watch theDemons, it was time for Robert and wifeRuth, who he met at a local station party, toreturn to city life, although he retained theproperty which is now managed by his son.This was some sea change. Initiallyattracted to real estate, after a couple ofyears he joined the stockbroking fraternityvia May & Mellor and ultimately landedat Bell Potter where today he is a directorof stockbroking.Because of his father’s love of lawn bowlsand an injury precluding golf, Robert wasdetermined to play bowls and equallydetermined that it could only be for theMCC. He first played in 1988, was on thecommittee three years later and spent 12productive years as vice-chairman beforetaking on the chairmanship in 2005.He ranks the move away from theMCG as a significant plus for the bowlersand the partnership with Glenferrie HillBowling Club at Glen Street as the mostsignificant of his time in office. He wasindeed a worthy winner of the EbelingAward for outstanding service to thesporting sections.Footnote: MCC Bowls Section chairmenare certainly “stayers”. There have onlybeen 14 of them in 115 years!A COUPLE OF CHAMPSHere’s one for the history books. The MCC Bowls Section’s clubchampionships for both ladies and men were won by a husbandand wife combination – Greg and Karen Thomson.The singles title is much prized in any bowling club so to takeout a family double is a rare – if not unique – achievement.Karen, a ladies committee member, defeated Liz Cook 25–17 atGlen Street, Hawthorn, while a big crowd saw husband Greg wina tight encounter with Dick Meadows 25-22 in wet conditions ona 14-second Swinburne Avenue green.Both Greg and Dick were previous winners of the clubchampionship, in 2002/03 and 2007/08 respectively.ALISTAIR’SMAGICAL ROUNDGolf fans among us took more than a passing interestin the performance of emerging golfer Alistair Presnell onFebruary 14.Alistair, an MCC member, equalled the record for thelowest-ever round in an Australasian Tour event in the VictorianPGA Championship at Sandhurst. He shot 12 birdies in anincredible round of 60 to finish 22 under for the tournament,storming home to win the $16,500 first prize by a shot.The win is his second PGA Tour of Australasia title, followinghis maiden win in the 2009 Moonah Classic, with which hegained US NationwideTour status.“I’m ecstatic. To wina Victorian title means alot to me,” said Presnellwho now joins pastchampions Kel Nagle,Peter Thomson, PeterSenior and Stuart Applebyon the honour roll.“It’s a great achievementand another big featherin my cap.”14 MCC NEWS MARCH 2010

YOUNG GUNSON THE RISEThe MCC’s cricket junior developmentprogram appears to again be bearingfruit, with a number of players achievingstate/national representation over summer.Seb Gotch, Jordan White and MatthewBegbie played in the Victorian Under 17team, with Seb going on to be selectedin the All-Australian team at the end ofthe tournament.As mentioned in the previous MCC News,talented cricketer-footballer Alex Keath(pictured below, batting) was selected inAustralia’s Under 19 World Cup team thatwent on to win the tournament inNew Zealand in February.The Shepparton all-rounder played animportant role, belting 88 in one gameand snaring the double of 64 and 3/34 inanother, his efforts rewarded with selectionin the Prime Minister’s XI against theWest Indies in Canberra. In that game, hetook four wickets, but suffered like most atthe hands of a rampant Chris Gayle.Off the field, Alex has emerged as aposter boy for the battle between cricketand football to lure the nation’s talentedyoungsters. In recent weeks it was revealedthat he will be offered a three-year seniorcontract with Victorian Bushrangers if hechooses cricket over Gold Coast FootballClub, where he is in high demand for the2011 AFL season.Clive Fairbairn (right) and Bob Lloyd withtheir eponymous trophy and (right) anotherraised finger for Demon skipper Adam Dale.DEMONS WELL PLACEDFOR FINALS ASSAULTIt was a tight leader board, but theMCC First XI’s topsy-turvy PremierCricket season was looking promisingas finals approached.With one match remaining before thefinals commence on March 13-14, theDemons had almost secured a top fourposition and the important home groundadvantage for the qualifying final. That theclub is in this position is in no small waydue to the sterling performances of a veryexperienced fast bowling trio.Captain-coach Adam Dale has led fromthe front, capturing 34 wickets at 14.24including a miserly 5/32 from 29.3 overs tohelp Melbourne win the Michael ShollyCup against Melbourne University inFebruary. The 41-year-old has been asuperb acquisition since joining the club lastseason and will be striving to win the club’sfirst flag in the top grade since 1997/98.Adam has been well supported by hisopening partner Robert Cassell (32 at13.16), who has returned from injury andwas rewarded with Victorian Ford RangerCup selection in December, and theevergreen Phil Halbish (21 at 24.52).On the batting front, Ben Way, RobertCooper and Michael Hill have held thefort admirably in the regular absence ofBrad Hodge and Andrew McDonald onVictorian duties.The Melbourne-Ringwood match inFebruary saw the inaugural presentation ofthe Fairbairn-Lloyd Trophy, in recognitionof the contribution Clive Fairbairn and BobLloyd have made to both clubs. The MCCachievements of those gentlemen have beenwell documented, but lesser known is thatClive served on the Ringwood CCcommittee in the mid-70s and was a staunchadvocate for their entrance into DistrictCricket, while Bob was Ringwood’s firstDistrict coach.A FORTY-YEAR CONNECTIONThe MCC and Adelaide’s KensingtonDistrict Cricket Club (KDCC)celebrated a 40-year association inDecember with a reunion held inMelbourne during the Boxing Day Test.The clubs compete annually for theBob Lloyd Shield, named after thecurrent MCC vice-president and cricketchairman who played for both clubs.The clubs alternate travel interstate overthe Christmas period for the hotlycontested, yet highly social, fixture.This year, two Twenty20 matches – onefor past players and one for currentperformers – were held at the Albert Groundon December 27, followed by a reunionlunch at the MCG on Day 3 of the Test.The Browns, as KDCC is known, lookedto have the past players game undercontrol, with the MCC needing 17 from thefinal over. However, former Hawthornfootballer and MCC fast bowler MichaelMcCarthy belted two towering sixes alongthe way to helping the home side over theline off the final ball of the match.The MCC also comfortably won thecurrent player contest, with the Bob LloydShield presented to MCC skipper SimonDart after a pleasant barbecue. Thefollowing day, past and present playersfrom both clubs enjoyed each other’scompany over a luncheon in the Jim StynesRoom while taking in the Test action.The clubs will meet again inDecember, as another MCC crickettradition continues.MARCH 2010 MCC NEWS 15

CLUB NEWSVINTAGE YEAR FOR WINEAND FOOD SOCIETYThere has been a changing ofthe guard within the MCC WarVeterans Group, with inauguralchairman Les Shelly and vice-chairmanStan Guilfoyle standing aside afterrendering long and distinguished service.The Vets group, open to MCCmembers eligible for RSL membership,has met regularly for 13 years. The newmen in charge are chairman BarryThe popularity of Long RoomWine and Food Society functionscontinues to soar, with recorddemand for places at the table during2009 and a waiting list for membershipof more than 300.Membership of the society has a ceilingof 260 and the rate of attrition is very small(despite the demographic!), but nomineesare all invited to the December cocktailparty and most receive two invitations to alunch or dinner function each year.A recent highlight was the Novemberluncheon featuring South Africanwines, which were a revelation.The overall quality had improvedimmeasurably since we last sampledtheir wines and the function wasaccorded c the honour of hosting theSouth African high commissioner,HE Mr Lenin Shope, who flew fromFrom top, Jeremy Oliver presiding,society president Stuart Stockdale withthe South African high commissioner,Old Bottle Day winner Peter Armitage.THEY’RE STANDING AT EASEMinster and vice-chairman Frank Webb.Both are Vietnam veterans. Still holdingthe fort for WWII veterans is treasurerBetty Davies.An important recruit to the committeeis Brigadier John Deighton AM MC,former chief executive of the VictorianRSL. The group’s liaison man from theMCC committee is now Ted Yencken,who replaces Peter Mitchell.Canberra for the occasion.November also saw some changes atthe helm, with Stuart Stockdale takingover from Alex Gillon as president of thesociety and long-serving committeemanPeter Mitchell retiring. Alex remains onthe committee. Stuart has been an MCCmember since 1968 and joined the societyin 2003. His contribution to the socialside of club life has been enormous, mostnotably as a keen member of the XXIXClub, serving as president from 2004-07.At the AGM in November, lifemembership of the society was bestowedon Alan Podger, who has also renderedconsiderable service to the club as anMCG guide. Alan joined the society’scommittee in 1992, was assistant secretaryfrom 1994-98 and secretary from 1999 to2005, an outstanding record of servicethat demanded recognition.We were saddened by the passing inJanuary of inaugural society president andlife member Keith Simonson, a verypopular and able administrator. A briefsilence in memory of Keith ushered inproceedings at this year’s Old Bottle Dayon January 27.This function goes to a higher planeevery year, attracting superb wines ofvarious vintages, many of which would beout of reach at today’s prices.With club wine consultant Jeremy Oliveragain taking the reins, Chris Davie’s 1986McWilliam’s Elizabeth Semillon wasadjudged best white.But it’s the reds that are the stars of theday. David Studham brought along a1968 Seaview Cab Sav that probably costthree dollars, but was in great shape.Other unlikely bottles also gave joy totheir owners.Not surprisingly, the top red was PeterArmitage’s 1996 Grange. Jeremy rates the’96 on a par with the 2004 as the best ofall Granges. Peter, 66 and even betterpreserved than his bottle, has been asociety member for two years. Runner-upwas Gavin Woodruff’s 1977 St Henri andthird was Andrew Home’s 1992 HowardPark Cab Merlot.At the group’s luncheon on February24, guest speaker was Lady Sue Ebury,confidant and biographer of Sir Edward“Weary” Dunlop, while on June 23the much respected and decoratedGeneral Peter Cosgrove will mount theMCG rostrum.Membership and other inquiriesshould be directed to secretary JohnCullen on 0408 103 837.16 MCC NEWS MARCH 2010

Above, guests at the Australia Dayluncheon and (left) David and WendyMeiklejohn with Major General Jeffery.OurOcountry’s national day wasroundly celebrated in theMembers Dining Room whennearly 200 members and guests wereaddressed by former Governor-GeneralMichael Jeffery, whose honorifics –AC AO (Mil) CVO MC (Retd) – tell thestory of a most distinguished careerserving this nation.Major General Jeffery was Governor ofWestern Australia for seven years from1993 and in 2003 and was appointedGovernor-General of Australia, retiringin 2008.Born in Western Australia and agraduate of Duntroon, he served in SouthEast Asian trouble spots and wasawarded a Military Cross for gallantryduring the Vietnam conflict. UponIt was almost a great story. GeoffSwann had come all the way fromTucson, Arizona to attend the New50-Year Members’ Luncheon inDecember. What commitment!But unfortunately for the headlinewriters Geoff was coming to Melbourneanyway and had booked his flight in May.When he received his invitation to attendthe luncheon he thought: “What a beauty.I can go to that. It’s the day after we land.”Geoff, 72 and pictured with the MCC’sRachel Dove, comes home each year to spenda few months with his family. He was ateacher at East Sandringham Primary Schoolbefore accepting a teacher-exchange postingA CELEBRATIONOF THE NATIONretirement he had commanded all combatelements of the Army, including theSpecial Air Service Regiment.The latter connection meant much tohim on Australia Day 2010 because asoldier from his SAS Regiment, TrooperMark Donaldson, who received theVictoria Cross for gallantry in Afghanistan,was named Young Australian of the Year.It was the club’s fifth Australia Dayluncheon and a credit to the small band ofMCC guides responsible for both itsgenesis and growing popularity, chiefamong them Geoff Taylor, Joe Stanleyand Jan Dimmick.The quality of earlier speakers –Professor Geoffrey Blainey, Major JimBarry, Ron Barassi and Sir Arvi Parbo– was maintained with Major GeneralJeffery’s recollection of great momentsat the MCG and an interesting discourseon the role of governors and governorshipin Australia.Major General Jeffery was upbeat aboutthe state of the nation which he saw as“successful, confident and a pretty goodexample of what a democracy should looklike”, but regretted that we have “sadlyneglected the teaching of Australianhistory that really began at least 60,000years ago”.He was referring to the indigenouscontribution to the country which “ifproperly taught we could all share in thepride of belonging to the oldestcontinuous civilisation on earth with itsspiritual connectivity to the well-being ofthe land and its belief in the informedinduction of tribal youth into theresponsibilities of adulthood”.The man from Wiluna, gateway toWA’s Little Sandy Desert and miles fromanywhere, left us in no doubt about hisdeep-rooted “connectivity” to theindigenous cause.TIMELY ARRIVAL FOR 50-YEAR LUNCHEONin Tucson in 1990. While there he met Suzyand the couple eventually married in 2001.Geoff grew up within a couple of blocksof Windy Hill footy ground, but it’scricket that has kept him an MCCmember, albeit largely from afar.“It’s always there to use if I want to,”he says of his membership.The 1959 intake of 3600 membershas seen some serious attrition. Only494 remain “on the books” and of thatnumber 320 attended the luncheon intheir honour. The band of 50-Yearmembers now exceeds 2500 and theirsub remains at $15, surely the best valuein the sporting world.MARCH 2010 MCC NEWS 17

18 MCC NEWS MARCH 2010

SOLID SUPPORTFOR MEMBERS’FUNCTIONSThere has been a feast of functionsat the MCG over recent months,highlighted perhaps by theMembers’ Dinner on December 11 whichfeatured former Hampshire captain andprominent cricket commentator MarkNicholas as guest speaker.Proposing the toast to cricket at thisblack-tie affair was the former long-timehead of cricket for the BBC, Peter Baxter,a radio/TV producer well-known to MCTim Lane whose introduction drewheavily on his inside knowledge of hiscolleague. Both speakers were brilliant.Earlier, members were treated tohospitality in an exclusive MCC marqueeover the four days (November 12-15) ofthe Australian Masters at Kingston Heath,where Tiger Woods strutted his stuffbefore record crowds.In late-November the club hostedtwo 50-Year members’ luncheons whichdrew a combined attendance of 600members and their guests. In a room fullof people with interesting stories to tell,MC Tony Charlton researched sixattendees at each lunch and in typicalstaccato style provided brief snapshotsof each.Among his subjects was Dr John Fraser,a Hans Ebeling Award winner whocompeted under the MCC tennis bannerfor 40 years. The club’s longest-servingmember, Reverend Paul Ryan, 94, clearlyremembered Bradman being bowled byBowes for a duck.Magnus Cormack, son of the longservingsenator, sailed in eight Sydney toHobarts, John Westacott played 54 VFLgames for Footscray but golf was hisgame, sitting on the Victoria Golf Clubboard for 15 years and serving aspresident of the Victorian Golf Associationfor six years. And so it went.On December 3 it was time for thelatest group of new 50-Year membersto be the club’s lunch guests. More than320 of an eligible 494 attended and theycame from near and far (see page 17).Among a long list of notables atthe function were champion Demoncentreman Laurie Mithen and respectedAge chief football writer Ron Carter.Before we knew it Christmas was uponus, with members’ families packing theMembers Dining Room for lunch withSanta on the eve of the Melbourne Test.The Boxing Day breakfast in theMembers Dining Room was chock full ofinterest with former Pakistani quickWaqar Younis a special guest along withBrad Hodge and curator CameronHodgkins. Darren Berry again comperedin his entertaining, charismatic style.On day two of the Test in the sameroom the Women in Cricket breakfast washosted by Angela Pippos. FormerAustralian Test bowler and Pakistancoach Geoff Lawson was an entertainingand well-informed guest speaker. InjuredAussie batsman Callum Ferguson andVic Spirit all-rounder Sarah Elliott alsocontributed, with Angela showing morethan a passing interest in Callum’smodelling performance in this year’sMen of Cricket calendar!Following another successful AustraliaDay Luncheon (see previous page), theperiod concluded with a successfulWomen in Wine evening in the LongRoom on February 17. Prominent wineexperts Katrina and Natalie Pizzini, fromPizzini Wines in the King Valley, were ourspecial guests.MARCH 2010 MCC NEWS 19

FUNCTION NEWSFUNCTIONS CALENDARThere’s a host of entertaining functions to cater for a broad cross-section of members during 2010. Here’s a long-rangelook at the year ahead, so mark your diaries and keep an eye on the club’s communication channels for further details.DAY DATE FUNCTION VENUEWednesday March 10 NSM Cocktail Function for MFC/MCC Members National Sports MuseumThursday March 11 NSM Cocktail Function for Young Members National Sports MuseumWednesday March 24 Footy Season Launch Luncheon Members Dining RoomSaturday March 27 MCC/MFC Game Day Function Jim Stynes RoomSaturday April 17 Young Members Club Footy Function Hans Ebeling RoomFriday April 23 Young Members’ Anzac Ball Members Dining RoomFriday May 7 MCC/MFC Game Day Function Jim Stynes RoomSaturday May 22 Young Members Club Footy Function Hans Ebeling RoomFriday June 18 Women in Football Committee RoomFriday June 25 Young Members Club Footy Function Hans Ebeling RoomSunday July 11 MCC/MFC Game Day Function Jim Stynes RoomSunday August 8 MCC/MFC Game Day Function Jim Stynes RoomThursday August 12 Annual General Meeting Members Dining RoomSaturday August 21 Young Members Club Footy Function Hans Ebeling RoomThursday August 26 The Bradman Luncheon Members Dining RoomMonday September 20 Sporting Sections Grand Final Week Luncheon Members Dining RoomMonday September 20 Brownlow Dinner with the Coodabeens Members Dining RoomFriday September 24 Members’ Dining – Grand Final Eve Members Dining RoomTBC TBC Members’ Golf Day TBCThursday November 25 Annual 50-Year Members’ Luncheon Members Dining RoomFriday November 26 Annual 50-Year Members’ Luncheon Members Dining RoomThursday December 2 New 50-Year Members’ Luncheon Members Dining RoomFriday December 10 Members’ Dinner Members Dining RoomMembers enjoying the fun at the Young MembersClub cricket function in the Jim Stynes Roomat the Twenty20 Big Bash on January 15.YOUNG MEMBERS OUT AND ABOUTWith a membership base as largeand diverse as the MCC, the clubis typically abuzz with activities forpeople of all types of interests anddemographics.So it is that the Young Members Club(YMC) continues to thrive, with plentyof events in what is proving to be a busyfunctions calendar.YMC events are open to any MCCmember and their guests aged between18 and 40 and if recent evidence is anyindication, the group’s popularity iscertainly not on the wane.The YMC committee hosted cricketfunctions at the MCG during theTwenty20 Big Bash on January 15 andthe one-day international on February19. A cocktail party to be held in theNational Sports Museum on March 11sold out within hours!In the coming months there is muchfor young members to enjoy. The annualAnzac Ball will be held on April 23(note: not on Anzac Eve due to thevagaries of the AFL schedule). Bookingsopen on March 2, so we suggest youmove quickly to secure a table.There are also four football functionsin the Hans Ebeling Room during theseason (see calendar above), with the firstof these to be held on April 17 at theCollingwood-Hawthorn match.Please see the calendar above, as wellas the MCC website, for more details onthese functions and how you can join inthe fun. You can also check out the YMCon Facebook. It’s a great way to meetother members with similar interests andto tap into the social side of club life.20 MCC NEWS MARCH 2010

“RICHO” HEADSSTAR CAST AT FOOTYSEASON LAUNCHWhat MCG Footy SeasonLaunch LuncheonDate Wednesday March 24, 2010Time 12.00pm for 12.30pmWhere Members Dining RoomDress Jacket and tieCost $85 (members) and $95 (guests)Recently retired Richmondchampion Matthew Richardson isone of several prominent specialguests appearing at the MCG FootySeason Launch Luncheon on WednesdayMarch 24 in the Members Dining Room.The Tigers star will feature on a panelto discuss the football issues of the daywith two men who won’t be short onknowledge or opinions – 1988 Brownlowmedallist Gerard Healy and legendaryplayer and coach, Leigh Matthews.The popular “Richo” is sure to providean insight into life on the other side ofthe fence as he prepares to watchRichmond play for the first time since hisretirement when it takes on Carlton inthe season opener the following eveningat the MCG.Hosted by top broadcaster Tim Lane,GAMEDAY LUNCHESFOR MFC/MCC MEMBERSMFC/MCC members can avail themselves of some wonderful pre-game festivitiesat four Melbourne matches at the MCG this season.If you’re a Melbourne supporter who has purchased the dual MFC/MCC membershipoption (see back page for details if you haven’t) then it’s a fabulous way to spend anafternoon with your guests while cheering on the Dees.Enjoy a two-course food and beverage package plus afternoon tea/supper (cash bar fromgame time onwards), special guest speakers and seating behind glass in the Jim StynesRoom or premium reserved seating on Level 2 at the following matches:the luncheon includes a two-course mealwith beer, wine, sparkling and soft drinks,plus plenty of footy giveaways.Don’t miss out on your chance towelcome back another exciting year offooty at the MCG.Bookings opened on February 23 andwere still available as we went to print.Please check the website or ring the clubon (03) 9657 8888 for the latest updates.A DECADE OFBRADMANLUNCHEONSThe annual luncheon in honour ofour greatest cricketer will reachdouble figures on Thursday August 26,when another packed Members DiningRoom is expected for the BradmanLuncheon. Since inception in 2001 thefunction has heard from great namessuch as Greg Chappell, Max Walker,Damien Fleming, Adam Gilchrist andlast year’s very entertaining address bySir Richard Hadlee.Arrangements for this year’s event areyet to be finalised, so we suggest you keepan eye on the club website in the comingmonths for more details.Saturday March 27 Melbourne v Hawthorn Bookings now openFriday May 7 Melbourne v Western Bulldogs Bookings now openSunday July 11 Melbourne v Essendon Bookings open June 8Sunday August 8 Melbourne v Richmond Bookings open June 8Cost is $90 (dual MFC/MCC members) and $105 (other MCC members and guests).Bookings are being taken via the MCC website or in person at the club.MARCH 2010 MCC NEWS 21

MEMBERS’ NEWSTALLEYESONASHESSERIESSuch is the interest in the upcomingAshes series in Australia that nextsummer’s international cricket fixturewas announced before the current seasonhad even entered the home straight.The MCG will again be a hive of activity,although racegoers will need to factor in aone-day match involving Sri Lanka the dayafter the Melbourne Cup as part of arevamped 2010/11 international cricketschedule released by Cricket Australia.In addition to the Boxing Day Test,which is set to break all sorts ofattendance records if the weather holds,the MCG will also stage Twenty20 and50-over Australia-England matches overa bumper weekend in mid-January.EXCLUSIVE MEMBERMERCHANDISE OFFER$10 off yournext purchaseWhen you spend $50 or morein one transaction on anyMCC members’ merchandiseat the MCG Superstore.TERMS AND CONDITIONS One voucher per customer per transaction. Offer redeemable once per member only andoriginal voucher must be presented. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer Vouchers are not for resale, nor can they beexchanged for cash. Valid on non-event days only. Offer expires 31/03/2010.The fixture also sees the return of themuch-loved tour match, with Victoria setto play England in a three-day match inmid-December ... a good chance formembers to run an eye over the visitors’form before the Test.While Australian Cricket Family membersand public patrons will have their chance tosnap up tickets from July 14 and July 20respectively, the club has yet to finalisearrangements for MCC members for nextsummer’s cricket action.Members will be kept informed viaour communication channels in the comingmonths and we strongly suggest providingan email address, if you have one, to receiveupdates as they come to hand.GOLF OFFERSFOR MEMBERSMCC members now have privilegedaccess at two of Victoria’s finestgolf courses, St Andrews Beach andRanfurlie, both of which are ranked inAustralia’s top 50.The magnificent Tom Doak-designedSt Andrews Beach course is offering membersa special green fee price of $39 (midweek)and $49 (weekends/public holidays) uponproduction of their membership card whenbooking. To book, or make an inquiry,please phone (03) 5988 6000 or emailbookings@standrewsbeachgolf.com.au.Built in 2002 and designed by MikeClayton, Ranfurlie is a championshipcourse that regularly hosts the PGA TourQualifying School and is part of theAmstel Golf Club in Cranbourne.Not only can members obtain access tothis private golf course, they also can takeadvantage of an exclusive price of $49 permember with up to three guests onSundays (mornings may be restricted) andMonday-Friday. Please phone (03) 97888288 or email Ranfurlie@amstel.org.aufor details.MARK TAKESTHE PLATEIn blustery conditions at the famousRoyal Melbourne Golf Club,15-handicapper Mark Reynolds tookout the MCC President’s Plate at theMembers’ Golf Day on November 30with 40 Stableford points.The President’s Plate is one of twomembers’ golf days held each year.While the President’s Cup is competedfor at Kingston Heath each year, thePlate event has been rotated throughseveral of Melbourne’s famous sandbeltcourses since its inception in 2004.The best performed lady at RoyalMelbourne was Susan Beaurepaire, whohad 32 points off a 12 handicap. FormerAustralian batsman Dean Jones was part ofa very cricket-oriented foursome that wonthe team aggregate, ably assisted by JohnAnderson, David Broad and Mark Anderson.The most recent golf day was held onFebruary 23, just as we went to print.We’ll have details on how to enter thenext Members’ Golf Day in the Julyedition of MCC News.MCC vice-president Paul Sheahan (left)presents the President’s Plate to MarkReynolds at Royal Melbourne onNovember 30.22 MCC NEWS MARCH 2010

Photo courtesy VRCPhoto by Sarah WilliamsMCC MEMBERS’ RECIPROCAL ACCESSMEMBERS’ ACCESS TOLORD’S TEST IN JULYJust 12 months after losing an Ashes Testat the home of cricket for the first timesince 1934, Australia returns to Lord’s toplay a Test match against Pakistan fromJuly 13-17.The match is part of a two-Test seriesthat was postponed and then transferredto neutral territory after Australiancricketers chose not to travel to Pakistanfor security reasons.MCC Full members travelling to the UKfor a period not exceeding six weeks will beadmitted to the Lord’s pavilion andmembers’ friends’ enclosures uponproduction of a Visiting Overseas Membershippass and purchase of a £20 groundadmission ticket.To obtain a Visiting Overseas Membershippass, members should contact the clubin writing (either mail or email) at least onemonth prior to arriving in the UK andrequest a letter of introduction. This letter isto be produced upon arrival at Lord’s, alongwith photographic identification.Members may also purchase up to twoRover tickets per day for their guests,holders of which will be admitted to themembers’ friends’ enclosures. The cost ofRover tickets is £35 (Days 1 and 2), £40(Days 3 and 4) and £5 for guests under16 on all days.To cap off your visit, members canalso join one of the daily Lord’s toursfree of charge simply by producing theirvisitor pass.For further details, contact MCCMember and Customer Services on(03) 9657 8888 or email membership@mcc.org.au. Alternatively, you can contactLord’s via Jennifer Heppell at MaryleboneCricket Club (Jennifer.heppell@mcc.org.uk)or www.lords.org.INTERSTATE STADIUMACCESS FOR MEMBERSWith football season approaching, it istimely to remind members of some of thereciprocal access afforded at other stadiumsduring the 2010 AFL season.The club again has an agreement withANZ Stadium that enables members andup to three guests to attend the threescheduled Sydney Swans home and awaymatches (March 27, June 26 and July 21),against St Kilda, Collingwood and GeelongCats respectively.In a change from last season, MCCmembers may gain free entry forthemselves to the above AFL matches.MCC members who live outsideNew South Wales are asked to pre-registertheir attendance a minimum of five days inadvance of the match either online atwww.anzstadium.com.au/reciprocal orphone 1300 136 006 (option 2) duringbusiness hours. Proof of residence andMCC membership is required.Members are also welcome at the SydneyCricket Ground (eight matches) and at theGabba in Brisbane (11 matches). Again,you must reside outside the state you wishto attend and be on a short stay in the city.For full details of access for MCCmembers at these venues during thefootball season, please visit the MCCwebsite or ring the club on (03) 9657 8888.MEMBERS’ ACCESS TOFLEMINGTONMCC members can enjoy the benefits of theclub’s reciprocal access arrangement withthe VRC at several race meetings for theremainder of the 2009/10 racing season.MCC members will be able to access theMembers’ Enclosure at Flemington for theVRC-hosted race meetings listed below andthey may also introduce up to four guests.Access to the Members’ Enclosure is notavailable for any other VRC race days.MCC members and their guests mustpay the admission fee to the racecourse($12) and then proceed to the Racedayand Ticketing Office to obtain Members’Enclosure ticketing.Upon presentation of their membershipcard, MCC members can obtain a complimentaryMembers’ Enclosure pass andpurchase guest passes ($20).VRC members’ dress regulations applyand these be can viewed at www.vrc.net.au.MARCH 2010 MCC NEWS 23

MEMBERS’ NEWSGET BEHIND THE DEES IN 2010Another AFL season is upon usand our sporting section, theMelbourne Football Club, willbe looking to make an impact in 2010.MCC members can show theirsupport by purchasing one of two MFCmembership packages.As a dual MFC/MCC member, you’llreceive magazines, regular email updates,discounted access to MFC/MCC membergame day functions, text messageupdates on team news, discounts onAs mentioned in the last newsletter,the MCC has created Facebook andTwitter pages for members to keep up tospeed with club activities, as well as toengage with the club on membership issues.These social networking sites provideanother avenue for members to feel part ofthe club, in addition to the more traditionalmerchandise and more. At the sametime, you’ll be helping the Melbourneheart beat true for this year and beyond.If you are not yet a member ofMelbourne FC for 2010, please phone(03) 9643 1760 or use the MCC onlinepayment service on the website andjoin now.We thank all those who have alreadytaken up their MFC/MCC membershippackage for 2010. Your support isgreatly appreciated. JOIN OUR ONLINE COMMUNITYchannels, no matter where in the world youare or what you’re doing. There are almost2500 MCC Facebook followers at present,while Twitter is also growing.“I have lived overseas for a number ofyears and really appreciate the MCChooking up with Facebook, Twitter andregular emails,” MCC member DavidBland said recently via Facebook. “Oneday I look forward to being at the ’G asregularly as I was all those years ago!”So if you’d like to join our growing onlinecommunity, become a fan at www.facebook.com/melbournecricketclub andwww.twitter.com/MCC_Members. It’s thateasy. You can also follow the “tweets” andFacebook updates of the MCG andNational Sports Museum should you wish.FOOTY TIPPINGONLINEDo you have what it takes tochallenge inaugural winnerGavin Hooper and be crownedMCC’s premier footy tipster?Following last year’s successfulintroduction, members will again havethe opportunity to win some greatprizes (and bragging rights!) in theMCC website AFL tipping competition.Entry is free and registrations arenow open. Remember, you’ll need avalid email address in order to register.Simply visit www.mcc.org.au and log inwith your user name and password.(If you have yet to create your logindetails, you’ll need to do this on thewebsite first.)Last year more than 2500members took part and bythe time the ball is bouncedfor the start of Round 1 weexpect to exceed that number.We hope to see you there.AFL STATSBOOK OFFERs a special offer to members, the clubAhas a limited number of copies of theAFL Record Guide toSeason 2010 for saleat the club at thediscounted price of$25 (rrp $39.95).For furtherinformation, pleasecontact Member andCustomer Services on(03) 9657 8888.WE WANT YOUR EMAIL ...The MCC is always striving to obtainaccurate personal details of all ourmembers and waiting list candidates.So, if you or a waiting list candidate havean email address and would like to receiveclub updates in future, or need to changeyour current details, then please visit thewebsite and log in to update your details.Alternatively, simply send us an email(membership@mcc.org.au) and we’lldo it for you.MCC CONTACTSMail PO Box 175, East Melbourne, 8002 Telephone (03) 9657 8888 Fax (03) 9650 5682Country and interstate 1300 367 622 (local call fee only) Email membership@mcc.org.au Web www.mcc.org.au24 MCC NEWS MARCH 2010