Beach cricket in Lorne aids bushfire recovery

LOCALS and visitors took to the sands of Lorne to play a game of beach cricket last month with a bit more meaning than most.

The event served as a fundraiser for Wildlife Victoria’s Bushfire Appeal, with almost $3,000 being raised.

Event organiser James Westacott came up with the idea when talking to his son about how they could help with the bushfires.

He said he was delighted with people’s response.

“It was great. I’m really happy with the fundraising target.”

There were matches held for children aged under 10, children over 10, and adults, with matches ensuring everyone got an equal chance.

About 40 people took part in the matches, with another 25-30 spectating.

Mr Westacott said the different age groups each provided their own brand of fun.

“The Under 10s was a bit like Nippers, it was a bit chaotic. The teenagers’ match was quite competitive, and the adults was a bit of fun.”

A unique feature to the games was a toy koala suspended on a loop from the bails, that if fell off when someone was bowled counted as two wickets.

Mr Westacott plans to make the event an annual occurrence, with it possibly supporting other environmentally focused charities.