President’s Update - August 2025

From the desk of new club President for season 2025-26 - Pete Comerford

Dear Members, Supporters and Friends of Murwillumbah Cricket Club,

It is both an honour and a privilege to address you as the newly elected President of our great club. As we gear up for the upcoming season, I want to share my gratitude, excitement, and vision for where we’re headed.

A Fresh Committee, A Strong Foundation

Firstly, I want to acknowledge and warmly welcome the newly elected committee. It's an exciting time for the club as we bring together a team of passionate individuals who are ready to roll up their sleeves.

A special welcome goes to Casey McCarron, who steps into the important role of Club Secretary. We’re thrilled to have you onboard. At the same time, we extend a heartfelt thank you to Sonia Smith for her tireless work as our outgoing Secretary — your contribution has left a lasting mark and we’re so pleased you’ll remain involved in a general committee role. I’d also like to thank Fred for continuing in his role as Treasurer — his steady hand and experience are a huge asset to the club.

Joining our general committee are Marc Portus, Trent Buckley, Mel Reeves, Steve Hosier, Jack Corliss, Sophie Buckley, Lyndan Armitage and Teagan Comerford. Each of these individuals brings unique strengths and has taken on specific responsibilities to ensure the smooth running of the club across all levels. I’m confident that this group will lead us into an exciting new chapter.

A New Direction - Culture First

Our focus this season is about more than just cricket — it’s about culture. We are laying the groundwork for a more unified, inclusive and high-performing club environment where every player, parent, volunteer and supporter feels valued. Culture is the cornerstone of our future success, and it starts with how we communicate, support one another, and share in each other's wins — both on and off the field. Building more meaningful connections between our juniors and seniors is a key part of the culture rebuild, and i am open to any ideas and suggestions how we can improve this from members.

Coaching and Development

We're thrilled to announce Marc Portus as our new Head Coach. Marc brings with him not only a wealth of cricket experience but a deep understanding of how to develop players, build strong team dynamics and raise standards. His leadership will help drive performance and enjoyment across all levels of our playing group. He has also been instrumental this off-season in renewing the committee and developing a pre-season program so we can kick off our season in the best shape possible. He will also help the committee develop a new 5 year plan for the club so we can be a better community cricket club for the years to come. Keep an eye on our What's On page on the website for key training dates, come and try days and round 1 information as key dates get confirmed over the coming month.

Engaging Our Community and Sponsors

We’re also placing a renewed emphasis on communication and engagement. Our new social media strategy is being rolled out to better connect with members and promote all the great things happening within the club. We welcome Kirralee Blake from Estancy Studios who will be managing this strategy for us moving forward. This is just one way we aim to improve how we share information and celebrate the MCC community.

A huge thank you to Teagan Comerford for spearheading a very successful sponsorship campaign, her efforts have brought vital financial support into the club and deepened our partnerships with local businesses — we’re incredibly grateful. Our Sponsors page is building as we renew our sponsoring partner protfolio, you choice to support these business with your business wherever possible and appropriate in turn helps the club.

Junior Cricket – The Future is Bright

A key pillar of our vision is a reinvigorated focus on Junior Cricket. We are implementing a plan that not only attracts new families and young players, but ensure they feel informed, welcomed, and supported every step of the way. From helpful starter guides to structured training and positive game-day experiences — we’re here to build a love of the game that lasts.

Senior Cricket - Rebuilding for Sustainable Success

Unfotunatley our 1st grade side has been relegated out of the LJ Hooker competition this season due to poor performance, among other reasons. We fully acknowledge our 1st grade performances haven't been up to scratch in recent years and i'm keen to get us back competing as hard as ever in the LJ Hooker competition in the next couple of seasons. With a clear path back with success in 2nd grade I believe as a club we can use this to help motivate and drive our next chapter. If we work hard, we will earn our spot back in 1st grade and I believe this will be the foundational piece we need to build a successful future.

I’m genuinely excited about the direction we’re heading. With strong leadership, clear goals, and a united club community, Murwillumbah Cricket Club is well-positioned to grow and thrive.

Thank you to everyone who continues to support the club — whether it’s volunteering, cheering from the sidelines, coaching, umpiring or simply being part of the community.

Let’s make this season one to remember.

Warm regards,

Pete Comerford

President

Murwillumbah Cricket Club