Statue will recognise local cricketing pioneer

THE City of Greater Bendigo’s submission for funding to commemorate pioneering cricketer Barbara Rae has been approved, meaning a permanent bronze statue to honour her legacy will be installed later this year.

The City made a submission to the Victorian Women’s Public Art Program last year and was shortlisted with 12 others from across the state.

The program honours legacies of those who have forged a path for Victorian women, reflecting diversity and highlighting leadership, excellence and service to the community across a range of fields.

Its aim is to address the under-representation of women and their achievements by funding six public artworks.

Bendigo is considered the birthplace of women’s cricket in Australia after the first match between the Blues and the Reds occurred as part of the Easter Fair in 1874.

Primary school teacher Ms Rae was thought to be pivotal in organising the inaugural match, recruiting players and running coaching sessions at local cricket grounds.

Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said it was fantastic news for the cricketer to be immortalised in this way.

“Barbara Rae paved the way for women’s cricket in Australia and it happened right here in Greater Bendigo,” she said.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank the community for getting behind the campaign for Barbara.

“This new statue will be an important landmark for Greater Bendigo and Australia’s cricketing history and a fitting tribute to Barbara’s legacy to women’s sport.”

The artist involved in the project will be revealed soon.