Seagulls land English import, aim to go one better

RE-SIGNED Barwon Heads captain-coach Dan Donaldson has confirmed his side will have an English import in the coming Bellarine Peninsula Cricket Association A1 season.

The Seagulls have secured the services of opening seam bowler Tom Chalmers who plays premier grade cricket in the Greater Manchester Cricket League for Flowery Field Cricket Club’s First XI.

“It’s really exciting, not only to add to our A1 aspirations, but he’ll be great to just help work with our fast bowlers,” Donaldson said.

“We’ve seen other clubs have an overseas import the last couple of years and while it’ll be good to hopefully boost the depth of our playing group; it’s more having a new face around the club, some fresh energy and [us] contributing to what will hopefully be a life-changing experience for someone coming over from the UK.”

Donaldson wasn’t sure when Chalmers would arrive but anticipates he’ll be available for the tail end of pre-season.

Ex-Victorian Premier cricketer Cam McKinley, an all-rounder, is also set to join the Seagulls after a lucky interaction with Seagulls player Max Melzer.

“It just worked out that Cam’s new to the area. He used to play some pretty good cricket and he’s keen to come down for a hit and contribute where he can.”

The recommitted Donaldson led Barwon Heads to the grand final in his first season in the role and fought gallantly in the decider.

The Seagulls lost to Armstrong Creek, after being all out for 189 chasing 8-202.

Donaldson took 4-70 from 32 overs and finished 51 not out.

He also played in the club’s A1 premiership in 2023-24.

“I really enjoyed it last year. Obviously, it came with its challenges, but it was such a good opportunity to work with Barwon Heads last season,” he said.

“They gave me a really good opportunity to further my personal development in that capacity as both a captain and their coach and I was keen to go again and continue on with where I kicked off last year.”

He said the biggest source of pride was winning the club championship which takes into account all grades.

“To be able to take that out – that’s I guess the premier club on the Bellarine – was a massive accolade and a testament to the coaches around the whole club and the leaders and volunteers.”

Donaldson is confident the Seagulls can go deep again following their two strong seasons.

“For sure, we’re building, last year we had three or four players that were under 18 and they weren’t there to fill in the numbers, they got us over the line a couple of times,” he said.

He highlighted that youngsters Angus Mackie and Harry Hyland took five-fors at pivotal moments.